Circus Historical Society
Circuses - Brief Bits
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Information on these circuses was taken from the New York Clipper, Billboard, Circus Report, newspapers and other sources. Some of the shows may not be circuses. Note that not only do these publications have typographical errors, the transcription will also have typos. All information should be checked with additional sources.
Alex Abar's Pavilion Show - 1889 This show is listed in both Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and Sturtevant's List of Circuses for 1889.
On the Road. Miscellaneous. Abar, Alex, Brighton, Mich., May 9, Howell, 10; Fowlerville 11. New York Clipper, May 7, 1889, p. 136.
Now touring Michigan. The Two Watsons are on the show. New York Clipper, May 18, 1889, p. 156.
Roster of Alex. Abar's Pavilion Show: Alex. Abar, proprietor; Frank Watson, manager; Harry Watson, assistant manager; John Revelle, general agent; Mme. Watson, Mlle. Nellie, Belle Irvin, Mark Flynn, Willie Abar, Prof. Bow [Row?], Prof. De Alma, M. D. Thompson, Joe Nevin, Wm. Merchant, Burd. Fielding, James Neary, Frank Murray, Master Eddy, Fred Smith. The show has fifteen horses, two spotted ponies, two trick donkeys and a costly band chariot. It also carries a 100 ft. top and 50 ft. middle piece. New York Clipper, May 25, 1889, p. 175.
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Ed. C. Abbey's New Columbian - 1893-94
This show is not listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses under this title. It is listed in Sturtevant's List of Circuses for 1894 as Ed C. Abby, but not under this title in 1893.
Ad. Main & Abbey's New Columbian Shows, Trained animal exposition and museum of living wonders. Wanted, performers in all branches of the circus biz except riders. Bar team, brother act, lady aerialists, Spanish dancer, musicians. Show startes from Andover, Ohio about 1st of May. New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 760.
Ad. Wanted, people in all branches of the circus business, except riders. People doing two or more acts given preference. Also small band. E. C. and Jerome Abbey. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 571.
Harry Rhodes has signed a contract with Ed. C. Abbey's Columbian Circus as leader of band, and intends to make music one of the main features of the show. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
Notes from Ed. C. Abby's New Columbian Railroad Shows. Everybody is busy getting things up to the standard for the coming season. Every act and every feature will be up to the standard, and everything with the show will be first class. H. C. Long, formerly manager of Trevino's Colossal Mexican Shows has signed with the Ed. C. Abbey Shows as manager. He is now at winter quarters at ___, Ark. . . . New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
Ad. Circus people wanted for Ed. C. Abby's New Columbian R. R. Shows, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. People in all branches, except riders. Those that do two or more turns only. Lady performers especially wanted who do act for ring and concert. All privileges to let. Address Ed. C. Abby, Beebe, Ark. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 32.
Notes from the Ed. C. Abby New Columbian R. R. Shows. This show opened at Bebbe, Ark., April _, and has been doing a good business despite the bad weather. We stretch a 100ft. round top with two 40(?)ft. middle pieces, and carry forty-five people. The executive staff: Ed. C. Abby, proprietor and manager; H. C. Long, business manager; and Lew G.(?) Shelby, general agent. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
Little Rock, Arkansas. Abby's Columbian Show had big business April 30(?), May 2, 3. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 151.
On the road, circuses: Ed. C. Abby's, Ozark, Ark. May 17, Alma(?) 19, Van Buren 21, Greenwood 22, Fort Smith 2?. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.
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Abbey's New York Variety Aggregation & Dog Circus - 1888 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses for 1888.
Show at the Olympic in Chicago. New York Clipper, November 3, 1888, p. 543. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Ackerman & Co. Circus - 1886 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1886
Vicksburg, Mississippi. Ackerman & Co.'s Ten cent Circus pitched their tent here April 17 for one week. On 26 they departed for Port Gibson, Miss., leaving their canvas on the ground in payment of board. New York Clipper, May 8, 1886, p. 119. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Ackerman & Rivers - 1918
Winter quarters, Ackerman & Rivers Show, Charles F. Curran, manager; Brooklyn, N.Y. Billboard, November 2, 1918, p. 45.
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Adams-Floto Circus - 1939 Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses lists this show for 1940. Not listed in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
Animal Show for Hope October 30. Adams-Floto Will Have 27 Clowns With Circus. Smiles out of grins, laughs out of chuckles, will be plentiful in the great oval arena Adams — Floto Trained Animal Show when it exhibits on Monday Oct. 30 at circus grounds on highway 67 on Pond street. Clowns are a necessary part of every circus and the "big part" for the small boy, the more clowns, the better the youngsters like the circus. So, this year, finds twenty-seven of the funny fellows under the banners of the world's newest major circus. All are jesters of the highest type and many of them are known from one end of the land to the other. Jimmy Thomas, Bruce LaFarra, Johny Dolmar, Eddie Bell, Russ Fisher, Chuch Wirth and dozens of others, all are "tops" with the kiddies. Performances, will be held at 2:00 and 8:00 p. in. with the doors opening al 1:00 and 7. p. m. Hope Star (Hope, AR), October 26, 1939, p. 3.
Sergeant James E. Watts, son of Mr. and Mrs. Ira M. Watts, who is serving overseas in the Medical service. "Jimmie" was with his parents on the Parker & Watts and Adams Floto circuses in various capacities. He was a ticket seller for a few weeks, prior to joining the army, on Cole Bros. Circus in 1941. [Has photo of James.] Billboard, November 7, 1942, p. 38.
Under the Big Top with Parker and Watts Circus. . . . The show took to the road again in 1939 but a series of mishaps crippled the circus. A rival circus infringed on Watts’s business route. In October 1939, Watts wrote to his aunt, "Since leaving Virginia things have gone from bad to worse, and when the war was declared the bottom dropped out of show business." The show's general agent, L. B. Greenhaw, allegedly ran up expenses before he was fired. Creditors began demanding payment. Disagreements with performers led to lawsuits over back pay that sapped the already strained finances of the Parker and Watts Circus. This forced the show to disband for the season and move into winter quarters at Fort Smith, Arkansas. Watts announced his intent to take "a little back roads show to the hills of Arkansas, where I hope they haven’t even heard of the war." Calling the new show the "Adams-Floto Trained Animal Show," Watts hoped for a fresh start. On December 15, 1941, Watts wired financial backer George W. Potter, "War declared. Business coastal towns went to nothing. I have made my last show." The Parker and Watts Circus was subsequently liquidated. . . . The papers of the Parker and Watts Circus cover the circus from the time of purchase through the time of sale and final accounting. The collection contains general business accounts and records, employee and general correspondence, newspaper and magazine clippings, and photographs. The papers provide an intimate insight into the rise and fall of an American circus during the Great Depression. Missouri Times (State Historical Socity of Missouri), May 2012, Vol. 8, No. 1, p. 8. Online at Columbia Research Center.
Thayer, Stuart, In his article "Parker and Watts Circus," Stuart Thayer says it was a winter show taken out by Watts that ran from Oct. 16 to Dec. 23, 1939. See the article for information, people, etc. Bandwagon, Sep-Oct, 1969, p. 15.
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Adams Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses for 1957-58
In the winter of 1956-57 owner William Griffith and his wife Dolores took out an indoor show titled Holiday Circus Review. They brought out their Adams Bros. Circus in 1958. In 1959 the show was titled Adams Bros. & Sells Bros. World Toured Shows (see below). In 1962-63 he used the title Sells Bros., and in 1964-65 the show was titled Birnam Bros. He leased the show title and equipment to Dick Johnson and Louie McNeece, who took the show out in 1966, but it soon folded. Bandwagon, January-February, 1974, Vol. 18, No. 1, pp. 11-16.
See articles on Griffith's shows in Bandwagon, January-February, 1974, Vol. 18, No. 1, pp. 4-10, and Bandwagon, March-April, 1974, Vol. 18, No. 2, pp. 11-16.
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Adams & Sells - 1960 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1960-1961
Article on the 1960 Adams & Sells show, William Griffith, owner, is online in Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 1960 (scroll down or use find).
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Frank Adams' - 1895, 1897-98, 1900-02, 1904, 1906, 1909, 1913-14, 1916 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses for 1897-1909
1895: Frank Adams' Wagon Show went into winter quarters in St. Francisville, Ill., Oct. 1. The company presented Mr. Adams with a fine gold watch at the last performance in that town. New York Clipper, October 12, 1895, p. 505.
1897:
Notes from Frank Adams' Mammoth Show. The show opened at K???burg, Ill., May 11. Frank Adams is the sole manager and proprietor; Robert Gillford, contortion and fire act; Mardelo Bros., ladders and tumbling; Frank Adams, high wire outside and slack wire inside; Gifford Bros., horizontal bars; Walter Rogue(Hogue?), knockabout clown; Annie Adams, snake queen; Kendal Bros., traps and rings. A street parade is given every day, with Prof. Zion(?) Lambert's silver cornet band of six pieces in front. Allen Johnson is boss hostler, with five assistants; Jim Robinson, boss canvas man with eight assistants; Lige Floyd, boss prop., with two assistants. New York Clipper, June 12, 1897, p. 235.
"Frank Adams' circus struck town Tuesday and showed to a full house in the evening.” Edwardsville Intelligencer (Edwardsville, IL), Friday, July 30, 1897, n.p.n.
Ad. Wanted for Frank Adams' Wagon Show, at once, two good, sober canvas men . . . Also, I want to buy a Top, 80 ft. Round Top, with 40 ft. middle piece, must be cheap for cash. I want a drill top, and one that has not been used over 3 or 4 months. Also, I want to buy a large pipe organ, no toy, but something nice. Direct all mail to Frank Adams, Wortham, Texas. New York Clipper, November 20, 1897, p. 632.
1898:
Ad. Wanted, for Frank Adams' Wagon Show, one or two good performers. Must do two or more turns. Direct all mail to South McAlester, Ind. Terr. to Frank Adams. New York Clipper, New York Clipper, April 23, 1898, p. 136.
Ad. Wanted, for Frank Adams' Wagon Show, two or three good canvasmen. Must work cheap for I pay cash. Also I want to buy a good troupe of dogs. Must be first class and cheap. State all tricks in first letter. Address Frank Adams, Dunlap, Kan. New York Clipper, July 23, 1898, p. 346.
The Frank Adams show played Buffalo, Kansas, August 22, 1898. The local newspaper said, "Frank Adams' show came into town Sunday and Monday morning four or five of his employees decamped. He failed to find any help at this place but pluckily raised his tent, arranged the seats, gave a street parade and performed feats of wire walking on a wire stretched from the old corner building to Houge's hardware. At the night show given by himself, wife and son he collected about $25." • Bandwagon, November-December, 1998, Vol. 42, No. 6, p. 68.
1900: Notes from Frank Adams' Wagon Show. Business for the past ten days has been wonderful. We have turned people away every night. At Elba, Ala., half the crowd could not get in. We then held over for another night and the result was another packed house. The show will undergo repairs and prepare to be on the road all winter. New York Clipper, November 24, 1900, p. 868.
1901:
Roster of the Frank Adams Southern Railroad Shows: Frank Adams, manager and proprietor; Robert Gifford, general manager of juvenile show, contortion, tumbling, bars, leaps and fire in big show; Derrill Bros., Roman ladders, traps and perch; Agens Adams, talking and singing clown, clubs and tumbling; Spake, boss canvas man with four assistants. The show is moving along nicely. New York Clipper, April 6, 1901, p. 129.
Notes from Frank Adams' Southern Railroad Show. The show laid up at Orange, Va., for two weeks to rest the members and paint up. Mr. Adams purchased the two sleeping cars from the Rhoda Royal Show known as Esther and Washington. At present, however, we are only using the one sleeper, having leased the other car for three months. Business is fair, but the weather has been extremely hot. The show will not close before Feb. 10, and then only two weeks for rest and fresh paint. New York Clipper, June 22, 1901, p. 367.
Notes from Frank Adams' Southern Railway Show. the show has been meeting with the same ill luck and having opposition on all sides. On last Sunday, as the show was moving out of a branch, two flats in front of our cars left the track and were thrown across a creek that was near the track, but fortunately our cars kept the track and no serious damage was done. New York Clipper, August 10, 1901, p. 511.
Notes from Frank Adams' Great Southern R. R. Shows. We are bound homeward for our successful season in the South, for we never close. We have had to contend with a little illness in the company during the past week, but all is O.K. now and the show is running smoothly, to good business. Roster: Frank Adames, proprietor and managers; the Giffords, the Three Bonhommes, Frank Adams, Mrs. Agnes Adams and troupe of dogs, Master Frank Adams. New York Clipper, September 21, 1901, p. 641.
1902: Notes from Frank Adams' Great Southern Ry. Show. We closed two weeks ago for general repairs and painting, which were much needed, as the show has been out since the eighth of last March. Mrs. Adams has quite a novel and interesting feature which is original with her. While swinging by her teeth she does a three minute club act. The show opens in Atlanta, Ga., on March 7. New York Clipper, March 8, 1902, p. 33.
1904: 1904: Lovington, Ills. The Frank Adams show came to town Monday morning without previous advertising and failed to get a good crowd in the evening. Adams gave a tight wire performance in the afternoon across State street, which was good. He got $5 for this feat. Decatur Review (Decatur, IL), June 30, 1904, 10.
1906: From Frank Adams' Southern Railroad Shows: We closed at Alexandria, La., March 31, after touring the states of Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Arkansas, Texas and Louisiana. We open April 15 or 20. New York Clipper, April 14, 1906, p. 32.
1909: Some of the people with the Frank Adams Great Southern Railroad Show: Frank Adams, proprietor and manager; Prof. Baker, leader of band; Albert Adams, one of the youngest riders in the world; Luelle Adams, flying rings, revolving ladder and trapeze; Frankie Adams Jr., with his troupe of ponies and educated elephant. Billboard, August 14, 1909, p. 20.
1913: The Frank Adams Circus is wild-catting thru the Southern part of the state. Billboard, June 14, 1913, p. 21.
1914: The Frank Adams Southern Railroad Company played to a very small crowd last evening in their tent near the depot. The company had about 12 performers, who gave acrobatic and contortionist stunts. The show also carried an elephant, two or three ponies, mountain lion and hyena, and snakes. The show had been billed for last Saturday and failing to appear then, had no advertising and consequently small patronage. The company gave no pretense of offering a big show, but gave as they represented it a small one-ring circus. The show was as good as the average traveling company. Daily Inter Lake (Kalispell, MT), September 12, 1914, p. 3.
1916: The Frank Adams Circus, described as a one-elephant circus, paid a license of $50 to play Richmond (Cal.) March 6. The white top, according to a report, played to admissins totaling $2. Variety, March 17, 1916, 40.
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James Adams' - 1902, 1905-06, 1908-09 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses for 1906
1902: James Adams' New Century Shows - Bannister, Mich., May 28; Eureka, 29; Maple Rapids, 30; Hubbardston, 31; Carson City, June 2; Sheridan, 3; Stauton, June 4. Billboard, May 31, 1902, p. 8.
1903: Frank Hatch and James Adams will put out an eight car circus next season. Billboard, September 26, 1903, p. 9.
1906: Johnny J. Jones Big Trained Wild Wanimal Exhibition . . . I have just dissolved partnership with Mr. James Adams, and taken all the animals, cages, etc., and will have the largest independent animal show on the road . . . [Advertisement] Billboard, September 1, 1906, p. 30.
1905: James Adams, of the Jones-Adams Congress of Novelties, personally superintended the construction of the animal wagons which joined the show Labor Day at Manchester, Va. Billboard, September 16, 1905, p. 20.
1906: On Aug. 27 the Jones & Adams Show became the James Adams New Century Shows, Mr. Jones severing his connection with the organization. Mr. Adams intends to take the show south for the winter. With him are the Hardell Trio, the Two Arnolds, Charles and Iza, fournea and Schroy, Linegar Brothers, MeMaro, Paula and Jeona, Sam Hunter, Wilbur Spitzer and Dan Johnson. Chas. M. Hunter has charge of the band. Billboard, September 8, 1906, p. 240.
The James Adams Show closed its regular season at Winsboro, S.C., and manager Adams is now treating the Southerners to a vaudeville show. He is making week stands. Billboard, November 10, 1906, p. 32.
1908: The Rivards, aerialists, have joined the James Adams Railroad Shows doing their double trapeze and revolving ladder. Billboard, July 4, 1908, p. 17.
1909: Goldsboro, North Carolina. Under canvas - James Adams' Big Ten Cent Show week April 5. Billboard, April 10, 1909, p. 29.
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Admire's J. C. Admire's listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1938
Show had winter quarters in Brazil, Indiana. Bandwagon, August, 1956, p. 8.
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Agee's All Star Circus - 1920-22 Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses lists Agee's Circus, no date listed
1920: John R. Agee's Big 20-Act All-Star Circus played a successful engagment in Washington, D.C., February 12-21, under the auspices of the District of Columbia Department of the American Legion. Mr. Agee, who owns and directed the circus, put on a professional show. The patronesses were headed by Mrs. Woodrow Wilson and Mrs. Thomas R. Marshall. President Wilson and Mrs. Wilson autographed two of his ticket personally for him. Acts with the circus: John R. Agee, equestrian director; Merle Evans, bandmaster; Theresa Dog, Pony and Pigeon Circus; Aerial Troy, trapeze contortionist; the Stickneys, bareback horse and Indian riding act; Raymond's novelty iron jaw and wire performers; Irene Montgomery, flying ladder; the Mechanic, a device for teaching beginners how to ride a bareback horse; Lillian Russell, balancing trapeze; J. Schubert, equilibrist; Curtiss' Dog and Pony Circus; Riding DeMotts, bareback and carrying act; the Great Paldrens, jumpers and airplane spinners; Fred Stelling, clown; Rice, Bell and Baldwin, comedy acrobatic clowns, and others. The circus played for the benefit of the Richmond (Va.) Post of the American Legion week of February 25-28. General Pershing was a guest of honor at the opening there. Billboard, March 6, 1920, p. 58.
1921: Circus acts wanted. The last and biggest show of the winter, week of March 14 to March 19. Twenty acts. John R. Agee's All Star Show. Under the auspices of Zurah Temple of the Shrine, Minneapolis, Minnesota. Riding acts, aerial acts, clowns, acrobats, all circus acts. John R. Agee, Michigan Ave., Harvester Bldg., Chicago, Ill. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 19, 1921, p. 63.
1922: Chicago, Jan. 28. John Agee, of Agee's All-Star Circus, accompanied by D. L. Curtis, equestrian director, was a Billboard visitor last Friday. Mr. Agee's organization will open for the Shriners in Minneapolis January 30 with twenty acts. In the list will be Mme. Bedini, with her troupe of Arab horses; the Clarkonians, Clarke and Carriea, performing elephants, Nubian lions, Ali Ben Hassan's Arabs, Lillian Kincaid, Carpenter and Shubert, Kenneth Waite Trio, Lorette the clown, Jack Harris and others. Also there will be the revolving table, mules, bears, Harrison's dog and pony circus, Sir Victor's dogs and ponies and ten clowns.
Herbert S. Maddy will be ahead of the circus and Lawrence Warrell will be on the front door. Mr. Agee said there is already a $12,000 advance sale on the Minneapolis stand and that he has eighty electrically lighted billboards covered in that city. Omaha, week of February 6; Milwaukee, week of February 20, and Duluth, wee February 27, all Shrine dates, are some ot the spots to follow Minneapolis. Billboard, February 4, 1922, p. 66.
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Albany Amphitheatre - 1841 Listed for this year in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Not listed in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
Albany Amphitheatre, or Great Western Circus. A splendid and Combined Attraction of Equestrian and Gymnastic Performances. Mr. S. H. Nichols, proprietor of the above named establishment, has the honor to announce to the citizens of Norwalk, that his unequalled troupe of equestrians, and beautiful stud of horses, will be exhibited on Tuesday, the 5th day of October next.
The public are also respectfully informed, that the equestrian troupe, under the direction of Mr. H. Needham, is composed of the most extensive and talented equestrian artists; comprising several of the most celebrated and skillful performers, both of this country and Europe; among whom is the unrivaled Le Tort, whose incredible performances, and daring feats of horsemanship, have caused so much excitement in the principal cities of America, where he had the honor to appear. The Manager pledges himself that his Exhibition shall be of a strictly chaste and moral character, and free from every objection frequently made to Entertainments, of this desciiption.
Attached to this Company of Equestrians, are a number of elegant and accomplished Ladies, who will appear during the performance, and by their graceful and rich acquirements in the profession, will ever add brillancy of feature to the entire entertainment.
A Card. - The above Establishment, during the last winter, at the New Amphitheatre, Albany, as well as at the numerous cities and villages it has visited, and before the most choice and intelligent public, where it has had the honor of appearing, has been characterized with that degree of propriety and decorum, which has established for it a reputation in the minds of a generous public which will warrant the
proprietor a patronage equal to its merits.
The Celebrated Boston Brass Band is engaged, who will accompany the performances with a choice selection of the most popular and appropriate airs, &c. Doors open at half past one. Performance to commence at two P. M. Price of Admission — Box 50 cts. Pit 25 cts. C. GRISWOLD, Agent. The above Establishment will be Exhibited at Paris on Monday the 4th day of October, and at Florence 4 corners, on Wednesday the 6th of October next. [Advertisement] Huron Reflector (Norwalk, OH), September 7, 1841, n.p.n.
Albany Amphitheatre. This splendid establishment will be opened for the season on Monday evening, Nov. 29th(?). The proprietor has the pleasure of announcing to the public, that in grateful remembrance of the liberal patronage bestowed upon him the last season, he has made such arrangements as will enable him to offer amusements for their approval which have never been equalled in this city, and unsurpassed in the United States. His splendid equestrian establishment with the Stud of Fifty Beautiful Horses, and numerous company of unrivalled equestrians, renders that department complete in all its appointments. . . . S. H. Nichols, proprietor. [Advertisement] Evening Journal, November 25, 1841, n.p.n.
At Geveva, New York, June 8; Lyons, June 19; Batavia, July 10th. Geneva Courier (Geneva, NY), June 8, 1941, n.p.n.; Spirit of the Times (Batavia, NY), July 6, 1841, n.p.n.; Western Argus (Lyons, NY), June 9, 1841, n.p.n.
This show is covered in "Tales of a Small Town Circus Legend," by Dale Albrecht and Leo Albrecht, Jr. Self Published, U.S.A., 1996. On Buckles' blog, Leo Albrecht states that the name was changed during WWII, it was easier to pronounce and less German.
Maurice Items. The Albrecht Bros. Circus gave a free street performance here Wednesday. Ireton Ledger (Ireton, IA), May 14, 1936, n.p.n.
The Albrecht Bros. Indoor Circus proved a big attraction at the Manning Opera House Saturday afternoon and evening. [News of Manning] Carroll Daily Herald (Carroll, IA), February 23, 1938, n.p.n.
Jimmie, the $10,000 pony and Diamond, who knows all the colors of the rainbow. The Albrecht Animal Circus is one of the best of its kind in the United States.
Sioux County Index (Hull, IA), June 3, 1938, p. 4.
Chicago, Oct. 6. - Gladys M. Williams, of Williams & Lee Attractions, St. Paul, writes . . . "We had three units, and every one made all of its dates. Not one accident." Acts which appeared with the Williams & Lee units were . . . Albright's Circus Revue . . . Each show was staged and produced by Lew Fine and son, Wayne. . . . Billboard, October 13, 1945, p. 56.
Hutchinson, Kan., March 30. Clyde Bros. Circus chalked up excellent business here under the police auspices. . . . Circus has been out since November 5, will close April 10. . . . Saturday night (23) show . . . Acts in the order of their presentation were . . . Leo Albright, light and heavy balancing . . . Billboard, April 6, 1946, p. 72.
Clyde Bros. . . . Sonny and Leo Albright are happy with their new transportation, an army semi which is getting a falshy coat of paint. . . . Billboard, March 22, 1947, p. 65.
Big-Four Fair, Postville, Iowa. Aug. 29, 30, 31, & Sept. 1 . . . Free Attractions . . . Two Big Circus Acts - Ford's Circus Revue and Albright's Circus Troupe, with plenty of dog and pony acts thrown in. . . . [Advertisement] Postville Herald (Postville, IA), August 20, 1947, p. 2.
. . . James M. Cole Indoor circus . . . will open Feb. 1 . . . indoor version of the circus will have 12 acts and is billed for A-1 theatres after Mar. 22. Lined up for the indoor attractions are a troop of Albino ponies and 12 Alaskan white huskies and Spitz dogs, Leo Albright in slack wire act . . . Geneva Daily Times (Geneva, NY), January 3, 1950, p. 5.
. . . free afternoon circus at Bayliss park. . . . Leo Albright with his dog and pony act . . . Council Bluffs NonPareil (Council Bluff, IA), December 3, 1950, p. 1.
Jay Gould Circus . . . opened Thursday night [Jul. 9th] . . . 10 act show . . . One of the best features of the Jay Gould Circus was the "after-show" performance of some of the dogs owned by Leo Albright, who is the owner, trainer and director of the dog show presented during the circus performance. Here shown is one of the Spitz's owned by Albright doing a "one-hand stand." This trick was not presented during the regular show. . . . The one single act which brought the most "oh's and ah's" from the 2,000 people at the Jay Gould circus opening night Thursday was the 60-foot leap of Cupid the little four-year-old wire haired terrier, owned and trained by Leo Albright of Belle Plains, Minn. Cupid is so eager to perform her act that after the tower-ladder apparatus is set up Albright has to place a board at the entrance of the ladder to prevent her from climbing and making her leap ahead of schedule. Thursday night at the circus, as 2,000 people watched, she eagerly climbed the ladder, tail wagging, and made her leap as if she enjoyed every second of it.
Albright's Circus To Come To Kasson. Show Set For Tuesday, June 28. The Kasson Commercial Club has made arrangements for the Albright Attractions to come to Kasson Tuesday, June 28. Two big shows will be presented - one at 2:30 and another at 8:30 p.m. on stage in downtown Kasson. The big 2 hour show will be put on outdoors on stage where everyone can see free 10 all star acts. . . . Area residents are invited to see acrobatic acts, balancing acts, educated dogs, trained ponies, funny monkies, high diving dogs, one of America's most versatile jugglers, Gary and his wonder horse "Shiedk," Holmes and his leaning tower of Pisa and other fine acts. . . . all free to the public. Dodge County Independent (Kasson, MN), June 23, 1955, p. 1.
Estherville Industry Days, June 1st and 2nd. . . . Friday, June 1st . . . 3:00 p.m. "Albright's Stage Circus." . . . It's All Free! Graettinger Times (Graettinger, IA), May 24, 1956, n.p.n.
Estherville Industry Days, June 1st and 2nd. . . . Friday, June 1st . . . 3:00 p.m. "Albright's Stage Circus." Gigantic free show on open air stage . . .
[Advertisement] Spirit Lake Beacon (Spirit Lake, IA), May 31, 1956, n.p.n.
The celebration in Ruthven is over (at least for this year). The weather was cold and rainy, and not many people came out. However the ones who did enjoyed the
Horse Show, Parade and above all the "Free Acts" which came by the name of "Albrights Attractions". The name "Albright's Attractions" is a new one, but the story behind this show dates back as far as World War 1, when circus rings reaked with fresh sawdust and mud was ankle deep. It's a long story, too long to go into detail but one man is responsible for its origin.
But the depression was even too much for Albright's "never say die", and Albright Bros. Circus
folded. The show folded, but not Leo's dreams. Someday he and his boys would have a show of their own, a family show. But that someday would have to wait. Meanwhile, Albright, his wife and three boys started working for different shows and agents. Years passed, and his eldest son joined the navy. Two more years passed, and his other son followed suit. The circus was forgotten to the boys then, but not to the old gentleman. He still smiled above the footlights and worked harder than ever training animals. It would take a while, but Leo knew that someday they would be home, eager to talk show business again. And so it was that "Albright's Attractions" came to be. From a boy's daydreams, to an old man's dreams come true. Today Albrights Attractions" consists of Leo Albright, his wife, and their three sons, Sonny, David and Gary. Sonny, the oldest, is married and has two children of his own. Sonny's wife, a granddaughter of Jay Gould of Jay Gould Circus, boasts of four generations of show business. Her ninety year old great grandmother is still running a moviehouse in Minnesota.
Open-Air Circuses. Albright Attractions. Playing fairs, celebrations, drive-in theaters, shopping centers, etc., in the Upper Middle West, often on a pre-sale or direct sale basis. Managed by Jay Gould and Leo Albright. Billboard, April 13, 1957, p. 78.
Albright Circus - Leo Albright, manager, playing at fairs, celebrations, etc., under auspices. Most of performance given from portable stage unit outdoors. Operates out of Belle Plaine, Minn. Billboard, April 21, 1958, p. 66.
Estherville Industry Days, June 6 and 7. Friday, June 6, at 3 p.m. and 8:30 p.m., Free! Stage Circus on the street by Albrights Famous Circus Performers . . .
[Advertisement] Emmetsburg Democrat (Emmetsburg, IA), June 5, 1958, p. 2.
Oneida-Rhinelander Hodag Fair . . . Aug. 21-24 . . . This year's fair will feature amusements and concessions by Belle City Carnival, with Albright's Attractions stage circus scheduled for the Thursday night grandstand show. This show has trained animals, wire acts and equilibrists among its performers. . . . Rhinelander Daily News (Rhinelander, WI), July 31, 1958, p. 3.
Fairbault County Free Gate Fair, August 11, 12, 13 . . . Monday, August 11 . . . Albright's Stage Circus before grandstand - shows at 2:30 and 8:30 p.m. . . .
[Advertisement] Buffalo Center Tribune (Buffalo Center, IA), August 7, 1958, n.p.n.
. . . Independence Day . . . Afternoon following parade . . . Ringmaster, Leo Albright . . . Albright's Circus attractions will present a complete 1-hour program. Riding and roping, wheel balancing, dogs, ponies, slack wire artists, magicians, monkeys, high diving dog from 40 feet in air . . . [Advertisement] Sheboygan Press (Sheboygan, WI), July 2, 1959, p. 20.
Marshall. . . . free festival sponsored by the Marshall firemen Saturday and Sunday . . . Albright's circus will give performances at 1 and 3 p.m. Sunday. Featured acts will include Dalo, a chin balancer, a troup of white Spitz dogs, and Miss Arlene, an acrobat. . . . [probably July 10th] Wisconsin State Journal (Madison, WI), July 3, 1960, p. 6 section.
Albright's European Style Circus. Established 1912. Will be performing at Hazelton, May 28; Fairbank, May 29; Dunkerton, May 30. These three performances start 8:00 p.m. Adults, 75c. Children, 50c. Held under waterproof tent. Acts include dogs, ponies, monkeys, clowns, acrobats, jugglers, magic wire. [Advertisement] Oelwein Daily Register (Oelwein, IA), May 27, 1963, n.p.n..
Albright's Circus. European style, established 1912. Dogs, ponies, monkeys, clowns, acrobats, jugglers, magic wire, many more star acts. Morally clean in every respect. A wholesome entertaining show for young and old. No additional charge for reserve seats. City Park, Mon., June 3. Children 50c, Adults 75c. 2:00 and 8:00 p.m. [Advertisement] Progress-Review (La Porte City, IA), May 30, 1963, p. 5.
Albright's Circus coming to Pomeroy, July 10, at 8:00 p.m. in the downtown park. Educated dogs, trained ponies, jugglers, contortionist, clowns, acrobatic acts, monkey stars, and more. Admission: Children 50c, Adults 75c. [Advertisement] Pomeroy Herald (Pomeroy, IA), July 4, 1963, p. 6.
Albright's Circus, July 13, Graettinger, Iowa, afternoon at 2 p.m., evening at 8 p.m. . . . under waterproof tent. [Advertisement] Graettinger Times (Graettinger, IA), July 11, 1963, p. 5.
Albright's European Style Circus, May 30, one performance only, 8:00 p.m., Titonka. Barth & Maier, high perch, hand balancing. Dogs, ponies, monkeys, clowns, acrobats, jugglers and many more acts. Will show rain or shine under waterproof tent. Children 50c, Adults 75c. No additional charge inside. . . . [Advertisement] Titonka Topic (Titonka, IA), May 28, 1964, n.p.n.
Charles L. Alderfer Circus - 1913-16, 1921-22 Listed as Alderfers Dog & Pony Show, 1915-17, 1922-24 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Listed with this same title for 1915-16, C. F. Alderfer's 1917, 1922-23, C. L. Alderfers Overland Show 1924 in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
1913: Touring with this circus were Nick Carter, clown; Scott Ruth, trapeze; Chas. Welch, acrobat; Sylvia Alderfer, wire; Bert Pitts, clown; Mary Alderfer Solts, aerial; Charles L. Alderfer, owner, his wife Emma and son Roy. Circus Report, January 22, 1973, p. 6.
1914: Chas. Alderfer is no longer with the L. H. Ranft Show, having taken out a show of his own at Denver, Ind., which opened July 18. Mr. Alderfer is the head balancing trapeze artist; Sylvia Alderfer, slack wire and rolling globe; Sam and Nina Copeland, in sketches; Bert Pitts, black-face comedian; Nick Carter, clown. Chas. Grimes, with his auto, is in advance, and a number of dates have been secured. Billboard, August 1, 1914, p. 19.
1914: Alderfer's Tent Show, Chas. Alderfer, mgr.: Aldine, Ind., 5; San Pierre 6; Tefft 7; Wheatland 8; Demotte 10. Billboard, August 8, 1914, p. 67.
1914: The Alderfer Shows have been out ten weeks and have been doing very good business, especially in Indiana. They expect to remain out until November 1. The roster: Bert and Helen Renzso, head-to-head and hand-to-hand balancing; Miss Sylvia Alderfer, rolling globe and slack wire; Miss Renzo, contortioniste; Chas. Alderfer, head balancing; Chas. Welsh, back ladder drops; Mr. Renzo, Roman rings; Carter and Darlington, comedy acrobats; Scott Ruth, single trapeze and sailor perch; Mildred Renzo, flying rings; Alderfer and Pitts, revolving ladder; trick house act by a half-dozen clowns, including Bert Pitts, Chas. Welsh and Nick Carter. Billboard, October 3, 1914, p. 22.
1914: The Alderfer Show closed a successful season at Circleville, Ind., October 15. The Alderfer family will spend the winter at Denver, Ind. The Renzos went to their home in Ft. Wayne, Ind; Bert Pitts, to Plymouth, Ind.; Nick Carter and C. Welch to Niles, Mich.; Scott Ruth to the South for the winter. The show will be enlarged for next season, carrying a three-pole top, a number of new wagons, several head of performing ponies and a troupe of dogs. The advance will again be in the hands of Bob Loder. Billboard, October 31, 1914, p. 22. Winter quarters. Alderfer Show, Chas. Alderfer, prop., Denver, Ind. Billboard, November 28, 1914, p. 27.
Circa 1914: The C. L. Alderfer Circus moved by equine power. Coleman show had the Sullivan and Eagle wagon works carvings from the Alderfer show. The wagon was later the property of Maloon Bros. Circus out of Union City, Indiana, owned by Connie Maloon and C. L. Alderfer from 1919-1925. The Maloon show was purchased by John Pluto late in 1925. Pluto never operated it. "E. E. Coleman's Circus," Joseph T. Bradbury, Bandwagon, Jan-Feb, 1999, p. 22.
1915: Alderfer's Dog and Pony Show. In spite of the hard times howl over the country the Alderfer Show is preparing to put out a first-class wagon show. Five new cages and a piano wagon are being built at the quarters in Denver, Ind., to add to the show, making a ten-wagon outfit. Elmer Gilmore has charge of the training quarters, and is working a high-school pony, six dogs, two bears, a goat and a golden baboon. The act bids fair to be an excellent one. The show will use a 50-foot top, with 2 30-foot middle pieces, and will carry 10 head of baggage horses and 10 ponies. Bob Loder will have charge of the advance, using an automobile. The opening date is set for May 1. Southern Indiana will be made the early part of the season. Billboard, January 30, 1915, p. 23.
1915: Fond du Lac, Wis., June 28, 1915. I have just returned from a pleasant week's visit with the Alderfer Dog and Pony Show, and Charles Alderfer, manager and owner, has asked me to send you a short article relative to the show. . . . The show is carried on seventeen wagons, five of wich are cage wagons containing small animals. Eighteen head of horses and twenty ponies comprise the stock, and an excellent troupe of dogs and goats are carried. Every wagon but the pole, stringer and plan wagons goes in the parade, and the parade is some flash. No band is carried. Instead an excellent organ is used in a flashy wagon as a band wagon and the parade is closed with a swell piano wagon instead of a calliope. Handsome trappings are used on all horses and ponies.
1916: Forest D. Snider, known professionally as Hary DeCleo, leaves Marysville, April 22, to join the Alderfer circus for the coming season. The Alderfer show is a fifteen car circus. He will join them in Peru, Ind., and is in fine trim for his aerial, pedestal, gymnast and flexing trapeze act. After his motorcycle accident of some months ago, DeCleo got busy and has been working hard to get back into form again, which he has succeeded in doing. In addition to the above, DeCleo does an Iron Jaw and Juggling act that is extremely clever. "Fifty Years Ago. Thursday, April 13, 1916," Journal-Tribune (Marysville, OH), April 13, 1966.
1916: The Alderfer shows, with winter quarters at Denver, has incorporated. Capital stock is $10,000 and J. Ross Woodring, Charles Alderfer and Clarence L. Keyes are directors. Rochester Sentinel (IN), Thursday, March 2, 1916.
1916: Denver, Ind., April 15. The Alderfer Shows are being greatly enlarged for this season. All of the old wagons hare been repaired and repainted, and a number of new ones added. Among the latter is one of the finest ticket wagons that has ever been seen. In all there will be thirty wagons, sixty-five bead of stock and forty people. Tbe main tent will be a
sixty foot round-top, with two thirty foot middle
pieces. The side-show top will be a fifty, with two twenty foot middles. Tbe opening date is scheduled for April 28 at Peru,. Ind.
Among the people to be found with tbe show are Charles L. Alderfer, proprietor and general manager; Gus Rippel, general agent; Nat Luther, local contractor; W. H. Sheak, secretary, treasurer and superintendent menagerie; Ray Wood, equestrian director and leading clown; John F. Dush, band leader, with fourteen pieces; Max Wilkershire, boss hostler; Homer Henry, boss canvasman; John Doe, superintendent privileges; A. Davis, manager pit wagon; Lewis Baker, blacksmith and general repair man; Mrs. Charles Alderfer, steward; Aerial Solts, double trapeze and bars; Alderfer Sisters, swinging ladders; Charley Rippel, contortionist, traps and swinging perch; Harry DeCleo, rings, traps and swinging perch; Sylvia Alderfer, rolling globe and trained dogs; Alderfer's trained ponies; Riding Trio (pony, dog and monkey); Frank Kotora, Japanese slack wire and barrel juggling; Hand Faunce, comedy acrobat and Roman rings. Col. Phil DeCoupe will have charge of the sideshow, in which will be Carl Solt, bag puncher; Walter Laidlow, comedy roller skater; snake pit; five cages of animals; twenty Shetland ponies, and "Banjo" Kelly, one-piece band and blackface comedian. Billboard, April 22, 1916, p. 22.
1916: Notwithstanding unfavorable weather conditions the Alderfer Show enjoyed very good business in Indiana, and is now in Illinois. The show will later jump back into Indiana. Only one performance was lost so far, at Rochester, Ind., due to wet weather. John F. Dusch and his band of fourteen musicians continue to be one of the big features, and Charles W. Tupman never fails to get applause with the orchestra. Mr. and Mrs. Harry Keller joined recently. Harry to play first chair cornet, and his wife to sing with the band and do her usual concert turns. Ray Woods, the funny old clown, is still with it, knocking them off their seats at every performance. One of the features of the show is Walter Laidlaw, one of America's best roller skaters, who does his act on a table 4x7 feet. The "big three" on the advance are doing some great work, and consist of Gus Rippel, general agent; Nat Luther, contracting agent, and Harry Leon, press agent. The show carries thirty-four wagons, seventy-eight head of horses and ponies, six cages of animals and sixty-eight people. Billboard, June 17, 1916, p. 65.
1917: The Alderfer Show is stored this winter on the fair grounds at Huntington, W. Va., which is considered as fine a spot as one could find for a winter quarters for a show. There are plenty of large buildings for the wagons, box stalls for the stock, running water, seventy acres of fine pasture land, and a cottage in which to live. Gus Ripple has charge of the repairing and painting. William Southerland the stock, and Carl Solt is breaking in a troupe of ten new dogs. The show will open early in April with about the same people as it closed with. Gus Ripple will be agent, William Shopshire manager of sideshow. Prof. Danwick in charge of the band, and the Aerial Solts, Sylvia Alderfer, Nick Carter, Bert Pitts and Ray Woods will be found in the dressing room. Billboard, February 3, 1917, p. 32e.
1920: C. L. Alderfer, well-known circus man, was in Cincinnati last week on business and paid The Billboard a visit. Mr. Alderfer, who in 1918 sold his entire show, the Great Alderfer Shows, is now superintendent the Maloon Bros.' Shows, an overland organization, transported on ten wagons, and has been playing Michigan all summer to excellent business. The program presents acts of varied nature, also trained dogs and ponies. The show is now in Southern Ohio, headed South, and the management intends remaining out all winter. Billboard, October 9, 1920, p. 58.
1921: The Alderfer Show is stored for the winter at Owensboro, Ky. Manager C. L. Alderfer reports a pleasant season of twenty-two weeks and that the show will be an eight-wagon outfit next year, opening in April. Billboard, November 5, 1921, p. 69.
1922: Owensboro, Ky., Jan. 27. Preparations are now going on here at the winter quarters of the Alderfer wagon show. A troupe of dogs is being broken, and a new living wagon and a concession wagon are being built. Paul Jenkins has been engaged for the advance. Admiral P. Dockery for the side show, Harry D. Hayes, concessions, and Ernest Greno. John Hurn will have charge of the stock. The show will be an eight-wagon outfit and will open April 10. All of which is according to manager C. L. Alderfer. Billboard, February 4, 1922, p. 66.
1922: Dr. R. B. French recently visited the Alderfer Show in Jones, La., and reports that it is a neat overland show of twelve-wagon size. With the show are Scott Ruth, trapeze artist; Sawyer Family (Mr. Sawyer is leader of the twelve-piece band); Sylvia Alderfer, rolling ball and slack wire acts; Garnell Family of midgets and others. Billboard, November 25, 1922, p. 81.
Funeral services were held in Keokuk, Iowa, Sunday for Charles L. Alderfer, aged 65, who died at his home in Keokuk last Thursday from a sudden heart attack. He had been in failing health for two years. Mr. Alderfer was born at Walnut July 30, 1875, and for a number of years lived in the Walnut and Tiosa neighborhoods. For many years he traveled with the Hagenbeck-Wallace circus as a trapeze artist and then had his own wagon circus which was billed under the title of "Alderfer's Great Dog and Pony Show." Mr. Alderfer was married in 1892 to Miss Emma Keister. He was a member of the Methodist church and Masonic fraternity at Gilead. Mr. Alderfer maintained winterquarters for his circus in Gilead for five years. Surviving are his widow; a son, Leroy Alderfer, of Crane, Texas; a daughter, Mrs. Ralph Christy, of Keokuk; two grandchildren; a brother, C. O. Stauffer, of South Bend; two sisters, Mrs. Clayton Fletcher of Argos and Mrs. Tenia Kindig of Mishawaka and stepfather, W. H. Stauffer of South Bend. News-Sentinel (IN), Wednesday, September 11, 1940.
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Alexander's Atlantic & Pacific Consolidation - 1881 Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses lists this show for 1881
Alexander's Atlantic & Pacific Consolidation, which left Detroit, Mich., May 10, in joyous spirits for a Western tour, came to grief at Lacrosse, Wis., July __. The old story - lack of funds. New York Clipper July 7, 1881, p. 290. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Alhambra Circus - 1863
This show is listed for 1863 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. It is not in Sturtevant's List of Circuses.
The Alhambra Circus, Fourteenth st. Last week of the season, Friday, Oct. 16, as the pavilion will be removed to Brooklyn on Monday morning. Benefit of the bareback rider, Eaton Stone. Last day but one of the Bedouin Arabs. Mme. Marie Macarte, in Turpin's Ride to York and Death of Black Bess in which she will introduce her trained mare "Black Bess." James Cook, "The Fool of the Family" the courtly jester. Eaton Stone, daring equestrian. . . . [Advertisement] New York Times, October 16, 1863, p. 7.
Brooklyn, The Alhambra Circus, junction of Fulton and Dekalb avenues. Friday, Oct. 23, the last day but one of the famed Alhambra Circus. Afternoon at 3 o'clock. Evening at 8 o'clock. And every afternoon and evening this week. Last appearance of the Bedouin Arabs, feats of agility and strength. . . . The Alhambra Circus was removed to Brooklyn at the request of a committee of citizens for this week only, and will be removed to its original locality, Fourteenth street, opposite the Academy of Music, New York, where the season will be resumed on Monday afternoon. Last appearance but one of Madame Marie Macarte in the Grand Hippodrome spectacle of Turpin's Ride to York. Last appearances of Eaton Stone, James Cook and the galaxy of 28 star artists. . . . [Advertisement] New York Herald, October 23, 1863, p. 8.
The Alhambra Circus, Fourteenth street, third day of the grand reopening . . . Star artists, equestrian, gymnastic, acrobatic. Native Bedouin Arabs. Eaton Stone, barback rider. Mme. Marie Macarte in the hippodramatic spectacle of Turpin's Ride to York, and Death of Black Bess. The Talleen Brothers, Mr. W. Odell, Mr. H. Nicols, Professor Parker. Mr. James Cook, "The Fool of the Family," will produce a new budget of wit. Admission - afternoon 25 cents, children 15 cents. Evening - 50 cents and 25 cents. Friday evening, benefit of Lafayette Nixon, assistant manager. [Advertisement] New York Herald, October 23, 1863, p. 8.
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All American Circus - 1906, 1909 Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses lists this show for 1909, Grant Shuitleff and Slack, proprietors.
1906: Circus Gossip. Grant Shurtleff's All American Shows will consist of seven cars next season. Billboard, January 27, 1906, p. 17.
1909: All American Shows: Shuitleffe & Slack, proprietors; Grant Shuitleffe, manager; Frank Murphy, general agent; Thomas S. Haymond, manager side show. Roster advance car No. 1: Bob Fisher and Walter Miller, billposters; Harry B. Clark, cook. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1909: Tent show winter quarters. All American show, Little Falls, W. Va. Billboard, January 16, 1909, p. 24. Frank Murphy, gen. agt., All American Shows. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 86.
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Allen Shows - 1891
Notes from the Allen Shows. Business for the first week has been more than satisfactory, Geo. Belford is making a hit in head balancing act on the trapeze. Chas. Gregory is also catching the audience with his dancing barrel act. Capt. Bartlett is one of the features of the street parade, giving exhibitions of fancy rifle shooting on the street. Manager John H. Sparks is making a hit with his clarinet solo which preceded the big show. Lowery and Madden, song and dance performers, joined April 28, and are a feature of the concerts. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Allen's - 1890, 1892
1890: Allen's Circus came to town Wednesday, and pitched tents in the rear of the "merry-go-round" on North street. The street parade was not an imposing affair, but the band of eight pieces made more noise than those generally averaging double that number. At the afternoon performance considerable amusement was created by the "molten lead swallower" at the expense of a youth in the audience who unsuspectingly took hold of a hot piece of lead. The efforts of the trained horse "Mustang" to pick out the prettiest girl in the tent, and afterward the homliest man, also amused the "house." There was a general scurrying out of the tent when this latter "act" was announced. Middletown Daily Press (Middletown, NY), Thursday, July 24, 1890, n.p.n.
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Allen's Great Eastern - 1879, 1880, 1890 This title not listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Listed 1881 in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
1879:
Allen's Great Eastern Circus, which organized at Jamestown, N.Y., to commence its season there about May __, traveling by wagon. A. R. Allen, proprietor; Wm. T. Aymar, general director; Walter B. Aymar, equestrian director; Horace Nichols, ringmaster; R. C. Bradshaw, treasurer; Samuel ___, general contracting agent; Harry Franklin, assistant agent; Prof. A. H. Knoll, leader of band with sixteen musicians; Prof. De Witt, leader of orchestra; Davis Carroll, chief of paste brigade with six assistants; George ___, programmer and lithographer. Performers: Wm. T. Aymar, Walter B. Aymar, Romeo Sebastian, W. Frederick Aymar, Willie Aymar Jr., Prof. Neil Smith, John Nelson, Ed. C. Palmer, Oscar Sebastian Cook, John saunders, Lizzie Keyes, Miss Jennie Aymar, . . . Number of wagons, 26; horses, 110; men employed, 90(?). A mammoth band chariot, drawn by ten Arabian horses, will be used. Outside attractions, Prof. Lavorizi(?), balloonist, and Prof. Mathews, wire ascension. George Coup and L. J. Edgerley have the concert and sideshow privileges, with eight wagons, . . . New York Clipper, May 3, 1879, p. 47.
Allen's Great Eastern Circus is being organized at Jamestown, N.Y., where it will give its first exhibition May 17. Advance Argus (Greenville, PA), May 15, 1879, n.p.n.
Allen's Great Eastern Circus will exhibit in Mt. Morris June 5th. Mr. Allen, proprietor, is well known in Western New York, as a successful manager of popular entertainments. Popular prices will be charged. Free high wire ascension. Among the attractions and novelties is a female clown, Miss Ada Isaacs. The following is taken from our exhanges. "Allen's Great Eastern gave two exhibitions at Jamestown the 17th. The bare back riding of Walter R. Aymer and Romeo Sebastian are hard to beat, Miss Lizzie Keyes, equestrienne, performed feats on horse back only eqal to Mme. Dockrill. One of the attractions is Prof. Neil Smith's trained dogs. General admission 25 cents. Mt. Morris Enterprise (Mt. Morris, NY), May 31, 1879, n.p.n.
Allen's Great Eastern Circus exhibited in Bradford, Pa., May 23, 24, to good business. One of the novelties is a female clown, Adah Isaacs. New York Clipper, May 31, 1879, p. 79.
Allen's Great Eastern Circus came yesterday, gave two performances, and left early this morning. The show had a very small attendance in the afternoon, and a little better in the evening, though still small. The did not probably make enough to cover expenses. Next Saturday Van Amburgh's combination show (circus and menagerie) is to exhibit here. . . . Cuba Patriot (Cuba, NY), June 6, 1879, n.p.n.
J. C. Long, equilibrist, with Allen's Great Eastern Circus, who has been detained in Jamestown, N.Y. for some time past in consequence of injuries to his spine received during his performances, has recovered, and is to rejoin that show June 2. New York Clipper, June 7, 1879, p. 87.
The Waterloo Observer tells this about Allen's "Great Eastern" circus, which exhibited here last Tuesday: Three of the recent employees of Allen's Circus, with eight horses which they had seized for unpaid wages, were in town last night. They had sued their employer at Seneca Falls and the animals were levied upon. They claimed residence at Nunda, and said they were seventy miles from home without a dollar to pay for meals and lodgings. We have since understood that Mr. Allen paid up the men and redeemed his horses. The man with the trained dogs, Prof. Neil Smith, left the show at Waterloo to go to Vermont under a contract with Pullman's exhibition. He had also "run ashore," and recieved twenty-five dollars from New York by telegraph money order. Geneva Gazette (Geneva, NY), July 25, 1879, n.p.n.
Allen's "Great Eastern Circus" which has been traveling in Western N.Y., has "pegged out," having sunk $20,000. Corning Journal (Corning, NY), August 29, 1879, n.p.n.
1880:
Allen's Great Eastern Circus, which has been organizing in Jamestown for the past four months, gave an opening entertainment there on the 31st utl., and has started on the road. Batavia Daily News (Batavia, NY) June 3, 1880, p. 1.
Allen's Great Eastern Circus, Trained Animal Exhibition and Electric Light Show, Warsay, June 14. 15 educated and trained Kentucky thoroughbreds. In tablelau, pyramids, difficult evolutions & poses, catching fish, see-sawing, discharging fire arms and playing music, leaping, etc. Performed by Frank J. Howes. the $5000 animal novelty, the Cynocephalus "Zulu," captured in South African Zululand. No equal in its performances on horseback at full speed. $5000 electric light. Horse power boiler - 10 horse power engine. 6,000 yards of insulated cable wire. Equal to 20,000 candle power.
Allen's Great Eastern Circus was held here until Friday night, of last week, by the rascality of their advance agent, who had not billed the concern any further and who left with what funds he could get hold of. Exhibitions were given one afternoon and four nights and were pronounced good. The troup are very orderly. Western New-Yorker (Warsaw, NY), June 24, 1880, n.p.n.
Allen's Great Eastern quit business at Oneonta recently. De Ruyter New Era (De Ruyter, NY), August 12, 1880, p. 1.
1890: Allen's Great Eastern Shows are billed to appear in St. Regis Falls, Oct. 25th. The Cape Vincent Eagle of last week says: "Allen's Circus exhibited here Tuesday to a big attendance. The trained horses and dogs were meritorious features, while the acts of the Morrelle Brothers and others helped give satisfaction." Admission only 25 cents. Street parade at noon. Adirondack News (St. Regis Falls, NY), October 22, 1892, n.p.n.
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Frank Allen & Sons' Shows - 1922
Show in Shreveport, Louisiana quarters. Frank Alle, owner. Billboard, March 18, 1922, p. 85. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Geo. W. Allen's - 1893-1894, 1897
1893: Notes from Geo. W. Allen's Shows. We are now in our twentieth week, and up to date we have enjoyed a very prosperous tour through Pennsylvania, New Jersey and part of Maryland. We will close our tenting season Oct. ? and go into Winter quarters at Allegheny City, Pa. The show will be greatly enlarged this Winter for next season, and will be one of the largest wagon shows on the road. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 463.
1894: Notes from Geo. W. Allen's Circus. This will be our second season on the road. The show opened April 30, at Millerstown, Pa. to immense business, as it was pay day there. This season we will carry two two-horse bill wagons, and agent's one-horse buggy and six men on the advance. Our big tent is 85ft.(?) round top, with 40ft. middle piece; dressing room, 35ft. round top; cook tent, 20x??ft.; two 30x60ft. horse tents, and sideshow 30x??ft. We use only twelve wagons and forty head of draught horses to carry this show over the road. Our troupe of six performing ponies are the main feature of the show. They can do everything except talk. Our band of eight pieces is under the direction of Prof. Harry Forse. We carry forty-eight people all told. Our wagons have been repainted and they are beauties. All our canvas is brand new this Spring. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.
1897: Items from Geo. W. Allen's Circus. We are putting the finishing touches on the wagons. The horses have been brought in from Mr. Allen's farm, and they are in fine condition. Our new canvas arrived last week. We will open the season at Greenville, Pa., April 2?. New York Clipper, April 17, 1897, p. 109.
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Julia Allen's - 1922 Listed for 1906 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Not listed in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
Julia Allen's Shows, for many years a feature attraction with carnivals, have taken the road as a motorized one-ring circus. The opening stand was made at Lewisburg, Pa., business was fair. The following are with the show: Julia Allen, owner; G. F. Williamson, manager; P. W. Anderson, advance agent; Mrs. H. F. Young, secretary and press agent; Texas Jack, fancy and trick riding and roping; Oscar Mann, producing clown; Young's fox terriers; Lappel and Company, acrobats and tumblers; Sid Hibbird and his comedy mule; Julia Allen, troupe of performing dogs and ponies, also Teddy, the dancing horse; George Parsons, band director; Andy Anderson, equestrian director; Bill Hegeman, boss hostler, Mrs. P. W. Anderson has the novelties and candy privilege. Billboard, July 1, 1922, p. 63.
Mrs. G. Ford (Julia) Williamson, of Felts Mills, one-time owner of and featured performer in traveling wild west shows, died January 4, 1960, age 76. Once an expert horsewoman and trick rider, Mrs. Williamson was at one time owner of a traveling show known as "Julia Allen's Society Circus." Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY), June 20, 1967, p. 13.
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Allen Bros. Allen Bros. Circus or Wild West is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1927-1934
Mert and Charles Allen, owners. Allen Bros. purchased the Marlow Bros. circus equipment, making Big Flats their home base. The show used carbide gas for lights, running through garden hose to various parts of the lot and top. Every so often someone would stumble over a hose, break the connection, causing a dangerous fire. Mert Allen's wife did a Roman ring act. Charles Allen's wife later married Buck Steel. When the Wild West venture became stagnant, the Allens went circus for a couple of seasons. They had a serious accident when all the seats went down and many people injured. Bandwagon, January-February, 1972, Vol. 16, No. 1, pp. 22-23.
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All's Wild West & Beverly Circus; Beverley Bros. Circus Shows listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1933-34
• An article on owner Charles X. Allen's 1933 All's Wild West & Beverly Circus and 1934 Beverly Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1997, Vol. 41, No. 6, pp. 20-26.
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Jethro Almond's Circus - 1909, 1911 Show listed for 1909-1912, 1935 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
1909: Jethro Almond Show: Jethro Almond, proprietor and manager; Geo. W. Parnell, advance and general agent; F. Sumlin, special agent. Roster of advance: J. F. Cole and Luie(?) Taylor, billposters. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1911: Geo. W. Parnell will be general agent of the Jethro Almond R. R. Shows again this season, his seventh consecutive season with that attraction. The show opens at Albemarle, N.C., the last week in April. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
• An article on the 1934 Almond & Conley Circus and 1934-35 Jethro Almond Circus is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1997, Vol. 41, No. 3, pp. 8-13.
Brief biography of Jethro Almond is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1959 (scroll down or use find).
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Wm. Altherr Dog & Pony Circus - 1905-07 Listed for 1906 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Not listed in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
1905: Wm. Althers will open a dog and pony circus in north St. Louis about Feb. 1. Forty dogs and thirty ponies comprise the show. The prospects look bright.
Billboard, January 14, 1905.
1905: While en route from St. Louis to Perryville, Mo., with the Wm. Altherr Dog and Pony Circus, on board the steamer Geradeau, Woodie Cook, principal clown, instituted a new order - the Gobble, Gobble, Gobbles - and initiated into it the following showmen: Wm. Altherr, proprietor of the show; Fred Lightner, treasurer; John Morgan, equestrian director; Howard F. Baldwin, announcer; Peter Peterson, props; Harry Dickinson, trainer; James O'Neill, barrel jumper; Mrs. O'Neill, traps; Tony Weismantle, clown; Theo. Miley, clown; Happy Cameron, clown; Lulu, Nettie and Chas. Leurdecker, aerialists; Trendall Brothers, aeronauts; Toots Jones, McKenna Brothers, comedians, and Joe Bishop. Billboard, November 4, 1905, p. 16.
1907: Missouri. St. Louis. Lemp's Park . . . Altherr's Dog and Pony Show . . . Billboard, July 27, 1907, p. 26. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Alward & Way's Circus - 1883 Listed for 1883 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
Alward & Way's Circus played in West Liberty, Ia., May 19, Port Louisa 21, Fort Madison 22, thence to Montrose 23, Alexanderia 24, Anamosa 25. The artists engaged are Nelson, boy juggler; James Messenger, Fred McCarty and son. Prof. Tonis, Mr. and Mrs. Gus Alward, Amy Bell, Chas. Way, and Marco. Logansport Chronicle (Logansport, IN), June 2, 1883, n.p.n.
Alward & Way's Show exhibited in Anamosa, Ia., May 28, Springviell 29, Central City 30, Centre Point 31, Vinton June 1 . . . Norway 4, Blairstown 5, Van Horn 6. Del Dare and wife, are giving free balloon ascensions and high slack wire. Nelson, boy juggler, and ten horses and a new band wagon were recently added. New York Clipper, June 9, 1883, p. 195.
Wanted for Alward & Way's Circus, Museum and Aquarium, peformers in every branch, except riders; a sideshow band of 4 or 5 pieces; and specialty artists for concert. A few more privileges to let. Address Gus Alward, Corning, Iowa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, June 16, 1883, p. 212.
Show added two hot air balloons. New York Clipper, August 4, 1883, p. 323.
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Amateur Circus - 1894
The Amateur Circus performance given March 27, at Nutley, N. J., in aid of the Red Cross League of that place, was a success. There was a performance in the afternoon for the young folks and one in the evening for their elders, both occurring in the training school of Prof. Eaton Stone, the veteran circus rider, and both being well attended. . . . The show opened with an overture by Prof. J. S. Robinson's Orchestra, which was composed of old time circus melodies, in the midst of which eight ladies and gentlemen, under the leadership of Guy A. Ward, rode into the ring and performed a series of graceful equestrian manoeuvres. . . . bareback riding act by C. O. Smith. During the waits of this act Fred Runnells, and old time clown, kept the audience in a good humor with his jokes. E. Loyal Field then presented his troupe of trained animals and Master L. Sterret gave a pony hurdel exhibiton. The veteran Eaton Stone was then introduced, and after a few remarks gave way to Messrs. Ward and Berg in a clown act. . . . Annie Oakley then gave an exhibition of glass ball shooting in which she introduced her new act of shooting from the back of a horse, and displayed her old time neatness and dexterity. . . . a tandem manege act by Robert Whittaker, and an exhibiton by the boxing kangaroo, "Big Frank." . . . New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Amazon Bros. - 1899, 1900, 1902, 1906, 1913-16, 1919, 1920-22 Listed for 1899-1913 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and for 1899, 1900 in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
1899:
Amazon Bros. 10 cent circus will exhibit for three days commencing tonight in East Newark. The Zanesville papers all speak highly of it and when a person can see 20 different acts and as many performers for 10 cents is a treat seldom offered. Tonight ladies will be admitted free. Their band wagon will parade the streets every day at noon. There will be a free exhibition tonight at 7 o'clock. Newark Daily Advocate (Newark, OH), July 6, 1899, n.p.n.
1900:
John Lloyd, saloonist of Cambridge, O., has place a tent show on the road under the name of "Amazon Bros. Circus." National Police Gazette, May 12, 1900, p. 2.
The advance team of Amazon Bros.' Uncle Tom's Cabin, which went on billing after the show broke up, not knowing of the latter occuence for some days, was overtaken at Gettysburg. It returned to Hancock. Manager John Lloyd having gone there with a reorganized show. Hagerstown Daily Mail (Hagerstown, MD), August 22, 1900, n.p.n.
Amazon Bros.' Shows, which the "Clipper" lists as a tent show, is a coon hall show. It is a winter snap belonging to Mons. LaPlace. Geo. Clark is, or was, the manager. LaPlace runs a tent show in the summer. Billboard, December 8, 1900, p. 5.
1902:
Amazon Bros.', 8th annual tour. Mons La Place, manager and founder of Amazon Bros.' Attractions. A. E. Steele, secretary and treasurer. Amazon Bros.' interpretation of Uncle Tom's Cabin, produced in a theatre under canvas. The greatest and most complete wagon show now traveling. Novel street parade. White and colored bands in band wagons. Man-eating Siberian bloodhound, trick ponies, trained donkeys. Wanted, musicians . . . wagon show agent, also general agent for hall show next season. Want to buy one baggage and stock car and a combination dining and sleeping car for the coming hall season. Performers in all lines of work. Permanent address, Mons La Place, manager, Vandergrift, Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, June 28, 1902, p. 400.
Actors and musicians please take notice. I see in last week's Clipper that Mons. LaPalce claims to own a show called Amazon Bros. U. T. C., which winters at Vandergrift. He was engaged as bus. mgr., but is no way connected with Amazon Bros.' Tom, which Winters here. The show next season will be called Al. Steel's Pavilion "Uncle Tom Cabin" Shows, with Al Steel, sole prop. and mgr. Robert Taylor, gen. agent, Vandergrift, Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, October 25, 1902, p. 780.
1906:
Wanted, musicians and performers, and call for Amazon Bros.' Consolidated Shows. Report for rehearsal at Byesville, O., May 10. Want a few more all 'round people, one or two song and dance sketch teams, acrobats, bar performers, and aerial artists; high wire and high dive men. Those doubling brass given preference. Adress Amazon Bros. Shows, Byesville, O. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, May 5, 1906, p. 303.
1913:
Want for Amazon Bros.' Wagon Show. Musicians and performers. Band of 4 or 5 pieces, double stage or orchestra. Week stands. Singing and dancing sketch team. Pay your own board. Salary must be low, as you get it every Sunday. Want 2 or 3 chorus girls. Amazon Bros. Wagon Show, Columbus, Ohio. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 24, 1913, p. 35.
1914:
Want, circus and minstrel people in all branches, male and female, three nights and week stands. Sister team that does dancing, sketch team that can dance, also novelty acts. Tent show. Want three or four piece orchestra that double band. Long season, open May 1. Addres Amazon Bros.' Shows, Columbus, Ohio. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 14, 1914, p. 23.
Mons. LaPlace, manager of the Amazon Bros.' Shows, celebrated his forty-eighth birthday, June 3, and was the recipient of several presents from the members of the company. One of special mention was a large American flag. Thursday, June 4, at Columbia Center, O., a severe wind storm struck the show just after it was up and ready, blowing everything to the ground and causing considerable damage to the big top. Irwin Mayberry, while holding down on the bale ring, was carried to the top of the center pole by a sudden gust of wind, but was released without being hurt. After the storm was over, everybody got busy and things were soon put in readiness. Capacity business was done in the evening. Billboard, June 27, 1914, p. 54.
Wanted - cornet player. Address Amazon Bros. Circus and Wild West, Waynesfield, O. [Advertisement] Lima Daily News (Lima, OH), July 23, 1914, p. 9.
1915:
Amazon Bros.' Shows. Things are flourishing around winter quarters at Columbus, O. All wagons will be painted red and yellow, trimmed in gold and silver. A new 60x100 foot tent will be completed in a few days. The new steam calliope has arrived. The show will open its twentieth season about the middle of May near Columbus, and after touring Ohio will cover West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Tennessee and Kentucky. Three-day stands will be made, with a change of program each night. The roster: Mons LaPlace, sole owner and manager; May LaPlace, treasurer and manager of privileges; Haskins and Haskins, Andy Stantenberg, Henry Brown, Ray and Maud Woodson, Billy Brown, Lee Sargent, Pearl Sage, Blanch Black and Cleo Ladmarie. Prof. Harry St. Clair will make balloon ascension and triple parachute leap every evening as the free attraction. Billboard, May 15, 1915, p. 23.
Harry and Bessie Haskins, in reply to the advertisement placed by Mons. LaPlace in the August 21 issue of The Billboard, say: "We had the alternative of closing or starving to death. The two meals a day were little more than bread and molasses. We were informed before opening with LaPlace, of the Amazon Bros.' Show, that he would close an act without notice, so naturally we had the same privilege. Mrs. Haskins was required to do two turns daily in the cookhouse, which she refused. Pay day was fight day, as LaPlace would try to beat all performers out of salary. Moving day meant fast day in the way of eats, as nineteen hours generally went between meals on this day. Performers were expected to take down and put up the tent at every gust of wind. Sleeping quarters were awful. LaPlace presented us with a board bill as a reward for our labors in working early and late getting ready for things to open. We are now with Ricton's Show, eating three meals a day, and conditions are excellent." Billboard, August 28, 1915, p. 45.
For sale. Amazon Bros.' entire wagon show outfit at close of season, on or about Oct. 1st. Outfit consists of one 50-ft. with two 30-ft. middle pieces; one ticket wagon, one canvas and pole wagon combined; one stage wagon, stage erected on wagon; one private sleeping wagon, one cookhouse wagon; one two-seated buggy, one sincle buggy, cookhouse complets, and sleeping tents, four head of heavy horse and harness. Going to enlarge next season and use trucks, no horses. Address Amazon Bros.' Shows, Columbus, O. [Advertisement] Billboard, August 28, 1915, p. 38.
Circus Gossip. Mons. LaPlace, of the Amazon Bros.' Show writes: "In the twenty years that this show has been on the road, we have never had such a wet and stormy season as 1915. Have lost only four days on account of wind storms. On several occasions we had to hire hayladders to help move us to our next town, but the ladies never had to ride on hayladders. Next season the show will be transported on five big auto trucks. Billboard, September 4, 1915, p. 75.
Circus and Carnival News. Amazon Bros.' Shows closed their summer season at New Albany, O., October 6, and are now making preparations for the winter season. They will make three-day and week stands. Miss Ruby Hott and Roland Stonborner, both members of the show, were married at Sunbury, O., recently. Blish and Logan have gone to Boston, Mass., to visit and rest, after which they will return to the show for the winter. Mr. Amazon says the shows will travel on auto trucks next season. Billboard, October 23, 1915, p. 58.
1916:
. . . Mons. LaPlace, owner and manager; Mrs. May LaPlace, treasurer . . . Mons. and May LaPlace, Roman rings and trapeze act . . . [this show mostly vaudeville except the rings and trapeze act] Billboard, August 19, 1916, p. 24.
1919:
Repertoire. Mons. La Place, manager of the Amazon Bros.' show, is at his office, 33 South Front street, Columbus, Ohio. Manager La Place will carry fourteen people and a band this coming season. Billboard, February 1, 1919, p. 23.
Amazon Bros. Motorized Show has closed a successful season, and manager Mons La Place has stored for the winter. It is said that all the performers with the show have signed for next season. Billboard, November 15, 1919, p. 58.
More on the 1919 Amazon Bros. show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
1920:
Amazon Bros.' All Motorized Shows will open on or about May 1 near Columbus, O. Manager LaPlace has been busy this winter organizing for the Loyal Order of the Golden Hearts of the World, but is at present getting things in readiness for the coming season. Most of the people have been engaged. Mr. LaPlace recently received a telegram that his father, 76 years old, had died in Grand Rapids, Mich., but the message came too late for him to reach that city before the funeral. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 87.
In Repertoire. The Amazon Bros.' All Motorized Show is playing to large crowds thru Ohio. This is the 27th season for the show. . . . Mons. LaPlace has the privileges and is secretary . . . Billboard, July 24, 1920, p. 14.
1921:
Winter quarters, Miscellaneous. Amazon Bros.', Circus-Vaude., 608 Part st., Columbus, O.
Billboard, January 29, 1921, p. 46.
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Capt. W. D. Ament's - 1891-1907 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1895-1907
1891: C. T. Taylor and W. D. Ament have secured the sideshow and concert privileges with the Hurlburt & Leftwich Show, which opened at Norfolk, Neb., April 25(?). The roster will be as follows: C. T. Taylor, door talker and magician; W. D. Ament (Mexican Billy), rifle shot; Annie Taylor, mind reader; Gray Eagle, tatooed scout; Zazell, Circassian; Harry Morton, cowboy musical artist; Roda, half lady. They have a brand new tent, 40x80ft., with a 100ft. front of 10x12 oil paintings. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 134.
1892: Wanted, good sideshow people, performers, freaks and canvas men. It's a wagon show, but you ride in a Landau(?) carriage. W. D. Ament, Omaha, Neb. March 7(?), care of Museum, Des Moines, Iowa, 14. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 12.
1893: W. D. Ament, Mexican Billy, has secured the side show privileges with Gollmar Bros.' Circus for next season. New York Clipper, January 21, 1893, p. 734.
1894: Notes from Ament's & Bruce's(?) Pavilion Theatere Co. W. D. Ament and Robt. Bruce have dissolved partnership by mutual consent, and all hands have struck out for California. W. D. Ament and wife have joined Buck Taylor's Wild West Show. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 135.
1895 Tomorrow morning, May 20, will bring with it one of the best feature shows seen in this locality for years. The world renowned Capt. William D. Ament and company of specialists will be quartered at the corner of Scott and Fourth streets where for the next seven days they will give their performances which have so delighted audiences throughout the country. Capt. Ament is one of the finest rifle shots now traveling making the most difficult shots with ease and without danger. All of the performers are artists in their respective lines which consist of juggling, tumbling, trapeze acts and several specialties which should not be missed. . . . Davenport Daily Tribune (Davenport, IA), May 19, 1895.
1896: Aments Combined Shows. Opens a Week's Engagement. Capt. W. D. Ament's combined shows opened a week's engagement at the corner of Fourth and Scott streets last evening. A large and well satisfied audience attended. The performance although given in a tent differs greatly from the average circus. A theatre and circus under canvas will convey a better impression of what the entertainment really is. One end of the tent is occupied by a pretty stage with boxes and an orchestra circle, while the center is equipped with the usual circus appurtenances. The bill is changed nightly and patrons need not be afraid of seeing the same show twice by attending two performances during the week. Last evening's program consisted of good specialty work upon the stage intermingled with clever horizontal bar, trapese [sic] performances and other circus entertainment in the outer tent. The whole show is worthy of attendance by the most fastidious and will entertain both old and young. Capt. Ament is to be congratulated upon is managing ability in getting together a troupe of gooed actors and actresses for both portions of the program and the tent should be packed every night for the remainder of the week. Special family matinees are given Wednesday and Saturday afternoons. A gold watch will be given the best amateur performer at the evening entertainment May 15. Davenport Daily Republican (Davenport, IA), Tuesday, May 12, 1896, p. 7.
1900: Capt. W. D. Ament's combined dog, horse and vaudeville tent show will open a three days engagement in Janesville on June 25, 26 and 27. The Elgin Sun says of this entertainment: "Capt. Ament returns to this city this year with a larger aggregation than in preceding years and the program given last evening beneath the canvs covered arena was made up of several clever performers in their respective lines. There was close to 1,200 people in the tent last evening . . . Daily Gazette (Janesville, WI), June 19, 1900, p. 5.
1902: Cedar Rapids Carnival . . . The Midway . . . Capt. Ament's Vaudeville and Ghost Show . . . Cedar Rapids Republican (Cedar Rapids, IA), September 21, 1902.
1907: Ad. Capt. Ament's Great Silver Gift Show. Headed by Prof. Meehans great school of educated dogs - finest in the world, 25 in number. Gussie Framme, the dancing marvel. Billy McLain, funny comedian. Captain Ament, ventriloquist, musical artist . . . admission 10c. Muskogee Times Democrat (Muskogee, OK), July 24, 1907, p. 3.
California Death Index, 1940-1997. William D. Ament, died May 26, 1943 at Los Angeles, born January 18, 1861, Iowa.
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Ament & Meehan's Show - 1901, 1907
Listed for 1907 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Not listed inSturtevant's List of Circuses
1901: Roster of Ament & Meehan's Dog and Monkey Show. Capt. W. D. Ament & Prof. Wm. Meehan, sole owners and managers; Mrs. Nanna Ament, ticket seller and treasurer; Mattie Meehan, ticket taker, main door; Mrs. Fannie Meehan, reserved seat ticket seller; Herman Little, boss canvasman with four assistants; Ed. McGoragh, animal keeper, one assistant; J. E. Daugherty, advance agent. We are showing under a little push pole tent, 40x80 ft., fitted up like an opera house and heated at night with stoves. Performers: Capt. Ament, one man band, fancy shooting, ventriloquist and magic; Nanna Ament, mind reader and serpentine dancer; Genevieve Ament, singer and cake walker; Prof. Wm. Meehan, with thirty-five performing dogs and monkeys. We furnish a two hours' performance. We charge 25 and 35 dents. We have been playing Georgia and South Carolina, and will soon be in Florida, where we will remain for the winter months. Capt. Ament has sold his Big City Show outfit to Murray & Co. New York Clipper, December 14, 1901, p. 912.
1907: Ament and Meehan's Dog Show closed their tenting season at Orangeburg, S. C. November 30. Capt. Ament will spend the winter in the East, while Prof. Meehan will play some time in the south. Billboard, December 21, 1907, p. 24.
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America's Racing Association - 1875
"America's Racing Association, International Hippodrome, Menagerie and Congress of Nations," will give its initial exhibition in Cincinnati April 6(?). The general manager is George W. De Haven, with R. E. J. Miles as manager of finance, Andrew J. Haight as amusement manager, and Sam Joseph as press agent. New York Clipper, April 3, 1875, p. 7.
"America's Racing Association, International Hippodrome, Menagerie and Congress of Nations" has been organizing in Cincinnati all Winter. It exhibited all last week at the Union Ball grounds, Cincinnati. The managers are George W. De Haven, Andrew J. Haight and R. E. J. Miles. Dan Rice is director of amusements. New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, p. 23.
America's Racing Association, International Hippodrome, Menagerie and Congress of Nations. Proprietors, a joint stock assocation. General manager, Geo. W. De Haven; treasurer, R. E. J. Miles; director, Andrew Haight; general agent, S. H. Joseph; contracting agent, John ___; assistant contracting agents, A. R. Scott; excursion agent, H. Leech; lithograph agent, ___ Morris; programme agents, John Watson and Wm. Scott. Two bill brigades, six persons in each brigade. In all, twenty-two people in the advance. Col. Dan Rice to supervise the Hippodrome exercises. . . . There wil be two band wagons, 22 musicians, 1 steam piano, 20 Persian and Roman chariots . . . Company will travel by rail, visiting only large cities. New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, supplement, n.p.n.
American's Racing Association, International Hippodrome, Menagerie and Congress of Nations. A. J. Haight went to California to make arrangements to take the show to California. New York Clipper, April 24, 1875, p. 31.
America's Racing Association opened in St. Louis, Mo., April 19, to low business, owing to stormy weather. Business increased large at closing of the week. Sideshows are under Uffner & Norman. Route, Chicago, 26, one week. New York Clipper, May 1, 1875, p. 39.
America's Racing Association and Hippodrome made its entree into Chicago, Ill. April 26. The arrival was hearlded by a street procession. There are many novelties, but we failed to see the gorgeous golden chariots, tableau cars and rich trappings which were so strongly advertised, on the contrary, everything was neat and substantial, but far from being gorgeous. Of the performance, the only really first-class features were the three and four horse chariot races and racing stock generally. New York Clipper, May 8, 1875, p. 47.
The Great Hippodrome and America's Racing Association exhibited at Auburn, N.Y., on May 18, under a six-pole canvas. Our correspondent says: "The street procession was a gorgeous affair. The performance consisted of flat, hurdle, elephant, camel, and Roman chariot races, and gymnastic feats by a score or more of athletes. Dan Rice was master of ceremonies. New York Clipper, May 29, 1875, p. 71.
America's Racing Association exhibited at Albany, May 25, 26, and from unforseen causes their tour was interrupted, and they continued there duing the entire week. No show was given on the afternoon of May 27, as the Sheriff had seized the concern. John ___ & Co. attached the show for $16,000(?). Other attachments in sums varying from $100 to $200, and amounting in all to about $1,000, were issued from the Justice's Court. The Torry Brothers of this city has a claim of $12,000 against the concern. Some of the chief performers left the show, but reconsidered their dtermination and returned. Considerable excitement exhisted at one time over the seizure of the ticket wagons, two of the constables having put locks upon and removed them. Subsequently the Sheriff gave the company permission to use the wagon, and upon some of the attaches attempting to remove them, they were set upon by other officers, who thought the men were attempting to rescue the property, and matter were lively until an explanation was made. In the evening of the 27th a performance was given for the benefit of the ___. The stockholders subsequently held a meeting, and our correspondent informs us that the concern have paid all immediate outstanding debts, and will proceed with their tour. New York Clipper, June 5, 1875, p. 79.
The American Racing Association is to show at Buffalo again June 11, having once more reorganized. There is great rivalry between this show and Barnum's, which is billed for 15, 16. De Haven has cut his price down to 25 cents general admission, and thereby hopes to spoil Barnum's business. New York Clipper, June 12, 1875, p. 87.
America's Racing Association and Hippodrome has again met with disaster, being in the hands of the Sheriff of Ogdensburg, N.Y. Many of the parties connected with the concern left for Cincinnati, O., June 11. New York Clipper, June 19, 1875, p. 95.
Four cages of animals belonging to America's Racing Association, and which were attached in Rochester, N.Y., last month, by various creditors, were sold there under the hammer, June 11. The purchasers were the Evening Express Printing Company. New York Clipper, June 26, 1875, p. 103.
All the property belonging to the International Hippodrome, America's Racing Association, Menagerie and Congress of Nations, is to be sold June 29, by the Sheriff of St. Lawrence County, at Ogdensburg, N.Y. New York Clipper, July 3, 1875, p. 110.
The De Haven Hippodrome is still in Ogdensburg, N.Y., and the employes are reported "dead broke." By their quiet deportment they have won the sympathy of the people of that town. Most of the workingmen have sold their claims for small sums and left for their homes. Dan Rice is still there, and talking of starting out again. New York Clipper, June 26, 1875, p. 103.
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American Dog & Pony Show - 1902
Show is listed for 1902 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Winter quarters. American Dog & Pony Show, Louisville, Ky. Billboard, December 13, 1902, p. 13. Charlotte, N. B., Great American Dog & Pony Show Oct. 22-24 to good business; performances good. [sic prob N. C.] Spartanburg, S. C., Great American Dog & Pony Show Oct. 24, 27 to fair business. New York Dramatic Mirror, November 5, 1898, p. 9. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Clark T. Ames Circus - 1864, 1868, 1869 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1865-1871
1864: A museum of curiosities is wanted by the subscriber. Parties wishing to dispose of such may send terms of purchase with full description to Clark T. Ames, Showman, New Orleans, La. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 27, 1864, p. 368.
1868: An opportunity to invest in a circus and menagerie is offered by Clark T. Ames, the well known manager, in the advertising columns. As the traveling season is about to begin, managers should not fail to make early application if they wish to secure the chance. New York Clipper, April 4, 1868, p. 414.
1868: Living curiosities who wish to make a winter's engagement at the Crescent City Museum will take notice that the Museum will open on or about the __ of September. Giants, fat people, dwarfs, skeletons, circassians, albinos and other wonders send their address, with photographs, to Clark T. Ames, Crescent City Musuem, New Orleans, La. P. S. glass blower wanted. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, August 8, 1868, p. 144.
1869: Clark T. Ames' Circus and Menagerie exhibits in Pittsburgh, Sept. 17th and 18th. New York Clipper, September 11, 1869, p. 183.
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Anderson & Co. - 1920-21 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1878-79, 1885
• Information on James P. Anderson's 1878-79 show, Anderson & Co.'s, is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 4, pp. 36-43.
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Anderson Dog & Pony Show - 1920-21
1921: William (Billy) Clark, an oldtime deck hand, is now engaged as 24-hour man of the Anderson Dog and Pony one-ring circus, playing the lots in Southern Ohio. Billboard, June 11, 1921, p. 19.
1921: Winter quarters are at Madison, Illinois. Anderson Ripley Ranch Wild West in 1921. Billboard, February 5, 1921, p. 64; June 4, 1921, p. 66.
Note: May be S. B. Anderson's, see below.
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Bud E. Anderson Jungle Oddities - 1938-39
In 1938 Anderson purchased the complete outfit of Norris Bros. Circus from Charlie LaMont and in 1939 added property from Tom Mix Circus and other shows. Purchased the Max Gruberg Oddities of the Jungle Act and titled his show the "Jungle Oddities Circus." "Six Shows in One," White Tops, Vol. 14, Nos. 4-5 (Feb-Mar), 1941, p. 16.
Note: Max "Gruberg's" Oddities of the Jungle. Just a small correction please. It's Max Gruber. I am his only living ( grandson ) relative. Murray Gruber
• An article on the 1939 Bud E. Anderson Jungle Oddities is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 2, pp. 4-12.
Bud E. Anderson Circus - 1941 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1923-25, 1939-1941, 1944-45
1941 was the first season Anderson toured to any extent east of the Mississippi. Owned and managed by Mr. & Mrs. Bud Anderson. Mrs. Anderson, front door; Joe B. Webb, asst. manager & general superintendent; Chet Espy, band; Mrs. Espy, ticket office; Cliff Brooks, band leader, route cards and Billboard agent; Mrs. Brooks, reserved seats asst.; Verne Crawford and wife, concession tent; Frank Ellis and wife, privilege tent; Bert E.Rickman, equestrian director, announcer, candy salesman; Mrs. Joe Webb and daughter Margaret, assist with reserves; Leon Bennett, sideshow manager; Cleo, sideshow mentalist; Dime Wilson and McBride, sideshow ticket sellers, outside lecturers; Prof. Reynolds, outside ventriloquism, Punch and Judy, inside lecturer; Koko Anders, legal adjuster. Capt. John Hart, jungle animal acts; seven performing elephants; elephant Eva; Matt Lauvish and Moon Kincaid, trained elephants; Joe Hodgini equestrian family (Joe Sr., Joe Jr., Tommie); Dime Wilson, clown; Charlie Dryden, clown; Jimmie Goodwin, clown; Jennie Geyer, aerialist. Band: C. B. Van Vactor and Tommy Osborne, trumpets; Louis Mittendorf, baritone; Chet Espy, trombone; David Anderson, bass; Fred Franklin, drums. Big top inside decorated red, white and blue, as well as the ground cloth in patriotic colors. "On the Lot with Bud Anderson's Circus,"White Tops, Vol. 14, Nos. 10-11 (Aug-Sep), 1941, p. 19.
Bud E. Anderson Victory Circus - 1943
Fred E. Anderson, "Bud,", Emporia circus man, plans to take a new 3-ring show on the road next April, named the "Victory Circus." From Emporia Daily Gazette, in White Tops, February-March, 1943, Vol. 16, Nos. 3-4, p. 13.
• An article on the 1944-45 Bud E. Anderson's Great American Victory Circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 4, pp. 4-14.
• An article on the Bud E. Anderson family and their shows is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 1, pp. 20-41.
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S. B. Anderson Dog & Pony Show - 1912, 1914-16, 1919, 1920
Listed as S. B. Anderson Circus, 1912, in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Listed as S. B. Anderson's Dog & Pony & Wild West, 1920, in Sturtevant's List of Circuses.
1912: Wanted, one white clown, for Dog and Pony Show. Also three colored young men who can dance, sing and play music. Address S. B. Anderson, Dupont, Ind. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 17, 1912, p. 23.
1914: Anderson's Dog, Pony & Vaudeville Show, S. B. Anderson, prop.; Marble Corner, Ind. Billboard, December 26, 1914, p. 44.
1915: The S. B. Anderson Dog, Pony and Vaudeville Shows Combined opened the 1915 season at Marble Corner, Ind., Saturday, May 1. The performance consists of eleven acts. The executive staff: S. B. (Doc) Anderson, manager and owner; Miss Alice Anderson, treasurer and secretary; Ed (Red) Darington, stage directors and blackface comedian; Eugene Marcum, in charge of Wild West department and producing clown; Clarence Adams, leader of orchestra. The show will put in a season of twenty-six weeks through Indiana, Illinois and Missouri. Billboard, May 15, 1915, p. 23.
1916: Winter quarters. Anderson's Dog & Pony Show, S. B. Anderson, mgr.; Madison, Ind. Billboard, January 15, 1916, p. 44.
1916: Marble Corner. On account of the serious illness of Mrs. Anderson's father and mother, Ed Mitchell and wife, S. B. Anderson closed his show season and returned with his wife to their home Thursday after a successful season. Versailles Republican (Versailles, IN), September 20, 1916, n.p.n.
1919: Ripley Ranch No. 1. Marble Corner, Ind., Dec. 1. S. B. Anderson has purchased several riding horses recently, which he excepts to train for his wild west show. He is still in the market for 8 or 10 mares. This being the first wild west show that has ever been framed in the county, he has given it the name of Ripley Ranch No. 1. Versailles Republican (Verailles, IN), December 3, 1919, p. 1.
1920: The following comes from S. B. Anderson, of Madison, Ind." "I have cut out the vaudeville in my show and am putting in Wild West and dogs and ponies. The show will carry in all thirty-eight head of stock, including two long-horn steers, four buckers and plenty of trick riding. Billboard, April 10, 1920, p. 58.
1920 Census:
Probably died 1949. Buried Marble Corner Cemetery, Madison, Jefferson Co., Indiana.
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Charles Andress' - 1889-1890 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888-1890
In 1883 Charles Andress toured a hall show, Andress' Carnival of Novelties and Trained Animal Show. Information on the show and Andress is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 1, pp. 42-43.
• Information on the Charles Andress' Grand Carnival of Novelties and Trained Animal Shows is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 5, p. 29.
1889:
The Andress Show, Chas. Andress, sole proprietor, and W. R. Andress, manager, started the tenting season April 21. The show has one advance car, fourteen people in charge of the advance, and about one hundred people with the show. They also carry ten cages, one elephant, two camels and twenty horses. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889.
• Information on the 1889-90 Andress' New Colossal Show, Circus, Museum and Menagerie is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 5, pp. 41-43.
1890:
Frank Stookey has joined the advance of Chas. Andress' Circus, and will hereafter make a high rope ascension in all the cities visited in the South during the Winter. New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 732.
The La Role Bros. and Ed. Billings, now with Andress' Circus, have signed with Ringling Bros. Circus for next season. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 781.
1891: The following, from Chas Andress, will explain itself: "I have finished augmenting my new opera house show, and will be ready for the road after the holidays. My show will be similar to my old time show before I embarked in the circus business - Trained birds, dogs, mind reading, magic, etc. Dick Beemer will have the advance work to look after, and, with the exception of two people, myself and wife will give the entire show. The claims of Sells & Andress (defunct) are now being paid at St. Joseph, Mo. I have aided all I could to adjust all claims, and I understand there is about $2,400 remaining from the sale of my personal property." New York Clipper, January 3, 1891, p. 676.
1892: Chas. Andress and wife joined the W. H. Harris Nickle Plate Show, at Chattanooga, Tenn., April 23. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.1893: Mrs. Lizzie Andress, wife of manager Chas. Andress, has almsot entirely recovered from a painful surgical operation. She will rejoin her husband with the Harris Show at Texarcana, Tex. Sept. 27. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 483.
Charles Andress entry, 1912 Biographical History of Barton County, Kansas, pp. 251-252. Online at http://skyways.lib.ks.us/genweb/archives/barton/history/1912/251.html.
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Anglo-American Circus - 1885 See Miles Orton's
Ann Arbor Light Infantry's Midwinter Circus - 1896 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1896
Roster of the Ann Arbor Light Infantry's Midwinter Circus. Ross(?) Granger, manager; Dean Seabolt, assistant manager; Fred Hantooa(?), treasurer; Mr. and Mrs. Frank R. Miller, equestrians; three Walton Bros., acrobats; Le Roy and Morris, triple bars; La Belle Tina, aerialist; A. Ed. Meyers, heavy dumbell juggler and lifter; Joes Bros. and Cooper, aerialists; Lon Moore, Harkins and Granger, clowns; Pack and Gwinner, Zoaves; Frank B. Miller, equestrian director; Frank Case, musical director; a military band of fourteen musicians; Chas. King, boss property man, and ??? Moore, chandelier man. New York Clipper, February 1, 1896, p. 761. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
Antonio Brothers - 1860
Show is listed for 1860-61 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses.
[Advertisement] Antonio Brothers' Great World Circus. . . . Antonio Brothers, Guillamo, Lorenzo, Augustus and Alphonso . . . who will performer the whole of their wonderful and classic acts . . . Benjamin Stevens, the celebrated trick, somersault and hurdle rider. Mrs. J. Showles, the American horse tamer and equestrienne, will introduce her highly trained horse, American Eagle. Jacob Showles, the world renowned Antipodean equestrian and grotesque gymnast, in his novel golbe act on horseback. Albert Ayman, the brilliant scene rider, in his pleasing act of seven changes. Signor Duval, the wonderful contortionist. T. Osborn, in his daring two and four horse act. Migasi ballet troupe, in their pleasing Chinese dance. Master Ceretto, the youthful equestrian and gymnast. M'lle Elizabeth and __. Stevens, in the beautiful and chaste act of the "Lovers of the Rhine." Nonpareil, the celebrated trick horse, performed by A. Antonio. The night's performance will conclude with a new, startling and terrific act, entitle the Fire King, in which Mr. Showles will appear on the Corde Volante, ___ at an indiscribably speed, and completely enveloped in a volcano of fire. . . . Court Jester, T. Osborn. Trick clown, T. Tipton. . . . Prof. Bailey's Eolian Band, is engaged, and will make procession through the town at 10 o'clock a.m. Will exhibit at Hamilton, Tuesday, May 6th, 1860. . . . Andy Springler, ag't. Chas. Whitney, adv'r. Weekly Hamilton Telegraph (Hamilton, OH), May 3, 1860, n.p.n.
Antonio Brothers Great World Circus will exhibit at Milwaukee July 3 and 4. . . . Antonio Brothers, Guilamo, Lorenzo, Augustus & Alphonzo, acrobats, gymnasts and pantomimists. Ben Stevens, Albert Aymar, S. D. Baldwin, Tom Tipton, Signor Duval, Mad. Duval, Mlle. Elizabeth, Mr. J. Showles, Mrs. J. Showles, Tom Osborn, Geo. & Henry Duval, Mater. Ceretto, Johnny Clark, J. W. Paul. The trick horses Nonpariel, Champion, War Eagle, and American Eagle. The fire king, in which Mr. Showles will appear on the Corde Volante, completely enveloped in a volcano of fire. A procession will enter town at 10 a.m., headed by a team of Arabian horses, driven by J. W. Paul, the American hercules. Performances on Tuesday at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Wednesday, July 4th, three performances, doors open at 10 a.m. Admission, box 50 cents, pit 25 cents. [Advertisement] Milwaukee Daily Sentinel (Milwaukee, WI), June 20, 1860, p. 1.
The Antonio Brothers - right name Megasi - had a circus for years. These brothers were acrobats when boys. Their father, Signor Antonio Diavolo, was a great rope dancer; he was shot at Brighton, England . . . The boys are all living. One was formerly a druggist in St. Louis, one is a stock farmer in Illinois, and Philip and Alphonso are at present keeping a saloon under the Olive Hotel, St. Louis. "The Sawdust Arena," by Ned Turner, Evening Auburnian (Auburn, NY), July 3, 1878, p. 1. [may be July 8]
The body of Fo?? Antonio (McGlassy) [McGinley?], a veteran showman, was found on Aug. 19 floating in a pond at Carondelet(?), Mo. The deceased, who was about sixty years of age, was at one time considered one of the best of acrobats. Later he was one third owner of Antonio Bros. Circus, and when he gave up the show business he became part proprietor of a cafe under the Olympic Theatre, St. Louis. At one time he was considered wealthy, but at the time of his demise he was in poor circumstances, and it is thought that he committed suicide. He leaves a widow and a brother. New York Clipper, August 31, 1895, p. 407.
Noblesville, Ind., November 23. Antonio Migasi died at his home near this city, this afternoon, of old age. He was 82. In his day the deceased was one of the most widely known acrobats in the country. He was the moving spirit in a circus owned by the Antonio Brothers, that was famous all over the United States and Canada, before the Civil War. The show spent several winters on the Hamilton Shepherd farm, north of this city. After amassing considerable wealth Migasi quit the road and went to St. Louis, where he was injured in a runaway. The accident impaired his mind for the remainder of his life. His fortune gradually dwindled away, and he died in humble circumstances. A wife and two daughters survive him. Billboard, December 6, 1907, p. 20.
Antonio & Carroll - 1857 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1857
Antonio, Carroll & Co.'s Great World's Circus will exhibit in Cedar Rapids on July 15. The Antonios having spent the last winter home, in St. Louis, refitting their establishment for their annual tour in the Western and Southern States . . . M'lle Maria Carroll, daring female rider. Madam Carroll, the fair dignity of the arena. The Antonio Brothers, Guillemo, Lorenzo, Augustus and Alphonse. Mr. P. Antonio, the Antipodean feat of walking on a ceiling with feet upward and head down. Mr. B. W. Carroll, two and four horse rider. La Petite Maria with her dog Neptune. The clown, ?. O. Knapp, aided by Tom Tipton. Mon. Jean Harpere, Southern leaper, vaulter and contortionist. Mr. W. Chambers, scenic rider. Messrs. Reed, Ceretto, Anderson, Masters Charley and Willie Carroll. The St. Louis Brass Band, led by G. Baily. Admission 50 cents, children under ten, half price. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m., performance half an hour after. . . . [Advertisement] Cedar Valley Times (Cedar Rapids, IA), July 9, 1957, n.p.n.
Antonio & Wilder's Great World Circus - 1859 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1858-59
Antonio & Wilder's Great World Circus. The Antonio Brothers, formerly of the Diavolo Family. Guiliomo Antonio, Card Volant performer. Lorenzo Antonio, equilibrist and acrobat. Augustus Antonio, walking the ceiling, feet up and head down. Alphonzo Antonio, pantomimist, gymnast and vaulter. William Armstrong, somersault rider. Mrs. J. Showles, female horse tamer. Jacob Showles, globe act on horseback and trick clowning. Johnny Davenport, the Kentucky clown. Master Henrie, youthful equestrian and gymnast. M'dlle Elizabeth, act of the Lovers of the Rhine. The Migasi Ballet Troupe in beautiful dances. American Eagle, performing horse. Nonpariel, the trick horse. Performing dog Yankee. Will exhibit at Defiance, July 25th. Mr. Tom Osburn, two, four and six horse rider has been engaged. The Fire King. A grand procession at 10 o'clok a.m. Admission, box 50cts, pit 25cts. Andy Springer, agent. [Advertisement] Defiance Democrat (Defiance, OH), July 16, 1859, n.p.n.
Antonio Bros. & James Melville's Australian Circus - 1861 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1861
Antonio Brothers' Great World Circus and Gymnasium. Fifteenth annual tour. James Melville, Australian rider; M'lle Jeanette Ellsler, tight rope danseuse; the Austin Family, juggling on horseback, etc.; Mrs. Melville, equestrienne; W. A. Donavan, L'Echelle Perillouse; Antonio Brothers, in their classic acts; Jerry Worland, tumbler and leaper; Signor Duval, contortionist; Masts. Henrie & Willie, youthful equestrians and gymnasts; Migasi Ballet Troupe, character dances. Performing war horse, American Eagle. The night performances end with the act entitled Fire King, in which G. Antonio will appear on the Corde Volante, enveloped in a volcano of fire. Court jester, T. Osborn; trick clown, N. Austin. Admission, boxes 50 cents, pit 25 cents. Will exhibit at Janesville, August 26. At Beloit, August 27th. Andy Springer, agent. [Advertisement] Janesville Daily Gazette (Janesville, WI), August 16, 1861, n.p.n. [note is not called Antonio & Melville]
Antonio Brothers' Great Show and James Melville's Australian Circus Combined. Antonio Brothers' Great World Circus and Gymnasium . . . [Advertisement] Alton Telegraph (Alton, IL), September 20, 1961, n.p.n.
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Arizona Frank's Wild West - 1910 Show listed 1910 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses.
Roster of Arizona Frank's Wild West and Open air Vaudeville Shows: Frank A. Kindred, proprietor and manager; J. R DeViney, business manager and secretary; Bert Kindred, treasurer; "Gus" Smith, general ticket agent and director of amusements; A. F. Le Roy, electrician; Wm. McMillen, chandeliers; L. L. Reed, reserved seats; H. Stapleton, stable boss; "Chub" Miller, master of transportation; "Chicago Bob," Allen, boss canvasman, eight assistants; D. M. Taylor's concert band of ten pieces; L. G. De Witt, advance, four assistants; "Happy" Kelly, banjoist and fun maker general; The Daytons, song and dance and musical artists; Cheyenne Charley, broncho buster; Tom Harris, fancy rifle shot and rope spinner. Billboard, April 23, 1910, p. 18. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Arizona Joe's Wild West - 1913 Show listed 1913 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses.
Everyone is busy around the winterquarters of the Arizona Joe Wild West Show at Cresco, Iowa. Walter Wheeler is superintending the work, while E. C. Wheeler is gathering the stock. The show will carry a fifteen piece band, about 50 head of stock and 65 people. George A. Whitesman, known as Montana Jack, formerly with the Buffalo Bill-Pawnee Bill Shows, has been engaged as chief of cowboys and arena director. P.O. Proper will have the shooting act. J. A. Weber will have his high school horses. Fred Parker, Bill Gowin and California Jack will ride the big toppers. Belle May, Helen Raines and Ella Hendlee will be among the cowgirls. Show leaves Cresco for the road May 19. Billboard, May 3, 1913, n.p.n.
"Arizona Joe" is the name of a brand new cicus organized in Cresco. The Wheeler boys first ran a moving picture show in that city and prospered. Last year they covered the country with a moving picture show. This week the new wild west show made its opening bow to the public. National Democrat (Des Moines, IA), May 22, 1913, n.p.n.
Arizona Joe's Wild West Show opened the season of 1913 at Cresco, Iowa, May 17. The show carries 112 people and 97 horses. Roster: Advance - Billie (Yorkie) Sorento, manager advertising wagon No. 1 with three assistants; Ernest Dosenback, manager advertising wagon No. 2 with six assistants. Arena: Arizona Joe and wife; Walter Wheeler, marksman; Eddie Wheeler, roper; Broncho Jones, boss cowboy; Virgil Wheeler, Jack Wheeler, cowboys; Jimmie Green, principal clown; Mexican Bowers, knife throwers and rope spinners; Holy Bull, chief of Sioux Indians; White Eagle, Cheyenne Indian rope spinner and sharp shooter; Prairie Flower, glass balls; Oklahoma Ann, cowgirl and glass balls; Texas Nell, rope spinner; Ed Morris, 24-hour man; Bud Duffy, announcer; George S. Freed, side show; Jack Winters, bandmaster; Whitie Mullon, privileges; Gus Wheeler, boss hostler; Dick Adams, boss canvasman of big top; Slim Edwards, boss canvasman side show; Mr. White, chief steward; T. McCracken, head waiter cook house No. 1; Shorty Donelly, head waiter cook house No. 2; Mr. McCaffee, chandelier man; E. W. Mitchell, night watchman. Billboard, May 31, 1913, p. 19.
Reports have it that Arizona Joe's Wild West Show stranded at Eden Valley, Minn., last week. Billboard, July 5, 1913, p. 32.
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Arlington & Beckman's Oklahoma Ranch Wild West - 1913 Show listed for 1913 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and Sturtevant's List of Circuses.
Edward J. Arlington and Fred Beckmann worked together on the Miller Bros. 101 Ranch Wild West in 1912. In 1913 they framed their own show, the Oklahoma Ranch Wild West that lasted only one year. The show traveled on 17 cars, 2 in advance, 4 sleepers, 7 flats and 4 horse cars. Bandwagon, March-April, 1981, Vol. 25, No. 2, p. 2.
Official announcement of the creation of a new frontier exhibition - Arlington & Beckman's Wild West Show, owned, operated and controlled by Fred Beckman and Edward Arlington, equal partnership, not a corporation. Would appreciate applications from people in every line of Wild West business, including arena people, director, boss canvasman, trainmaster, band leader, musicians and buglers, capable of settling tickets; blacksmiths, cook house people, harness makers and wood workers and painters for winterquarters and road; man to operate cook house and privilege car. All legitimate concessions and privilegs to let. Address Fred Beckman, general manager, Randall Bldg., 136 W. 53d st., New York City. [Advertisement] Billboard, December 7, 1912, p. 23.
It is rumored that Earl Burgess, manager of Primrose & Dockstader's Minstrels, will be business manager with Edward Arlington and Fred Beckman's California Frank Wild West, which goes on the road again next season. Mr. Beckman will have the active management back with the show. A strong advance staff has already been engaged, and the outfit for 1913 will be considerable enlarged. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
Oklahoma Ranch Wild West . . . The parade, it is announced, is a mile in lenght. Great floats and tableau cars illustrate the story of the winning of the West. Old Mexico is brought into visual evidence by wild bulls and bull-fighters. Scores of cowboys and cowgirls. A stage coach and its long haired dirver. Indians by picturesque blanket-wearing and feather decorated Indian braves, with squaws and papooses. An oriental touch by a company of pony riding Cossacks. . . . Cayuga Chief (Weedsport, NY), May 17, 1913, p. 1.
1/4 or 1/2 interest for sale in Arlington & Beckmann's Oklahoma Ranch Wild West Show. Best organized 17 car show in America. My reason for selling due to developments which require my attention to big show and foreign contracts. A substantial equity for sale to a party who can associate himself with Mr. Fred Beckmann in the management or handling finances and actively participate in the up-building of this property, being built to exhibit continuously in foreign countries throughout the winter, contracts having been made with railroads in Cuba, Panama and Central America. Outfit consists of 2 advance cars, 7 flat cars, 4 stock cars and 4 coaches, including own privilege car. This interest for sale at close of season November 15 at Mobile. Address Edward Arlington, National Printing Co., Tribune Building, Chicago, Ills., or Fred Beckmann, care show, Stillwater, Okla, Sept. 18; Pawnee, Okla, Sept. 19; Guthrie, Sept. 20. [Advertisement] Billboard, September 13, 1913, p. 67.
Oklahoma Ranch Wild West, by Arch Erdman. A terrific hail and wind storm struck us at Lovelock, Neb., September 1 at 9:30 p.m., and while considerable canvas was torn, no serious damage was done. George Gerlock, better known as English, is superintendent of the dining tent, and with his assistant, Curley Ryan, serve meals promptly. Lulu Parr, woman broncho buster of the 101 Ranch last year, joined us at Salt Lake City. Prof. Hornmann, illusionist and magician, makes free outside performances. Will Proctor has charge of the balloon and novelty privileges with the following assistants: Charles Kramer, J. H. Fredericks, Henry Coyle and Jack Frazer. Mrs. Charles Clark is doing mind reading and fortune telling in the annex. Edna, the electric wonder, is in the sideshow. Billboard, September 20, 1913, p. 26.
Winter quarters. Oklahoma Ranch Wild West, Lakeview, N.J. Billboard, October 25, 1913, p. 26.
Edward Arlington has definitely decided not to take on the road again the Oklahoma Ranch Wild West and is selling the rights to the title together with an equipment, complete, for a ten-car Wild West show. The outfit he has for sale was used by him during the past winter in South America. Billboard, May 9,1914, p. 1.
The closing of Arlington & Beckman Oklahoma Ranch Wild West Show at Texarkana, Tex., October 18, 1913 dissoved the partnership between Edward Arlington and Fred Beckmann. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
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Arlington & Chandlers' Wild West - 1913 Show listed for 1914 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and Sturtevant's List of Circuses.
New York, Sept. 17. Roy Chandler, a South American showman, and Edward Arlington, part-proprietor of the 101 Ranch Wild West, came together last Monday and a deal had been closed for an invasion of South America by Mr. Arlington and Mr. Chandler in co-partnership, operating a wild west organization in agreement for two years. Arlington & Chandler's Wild West will open at the Japanese Gardens, Buenos Ayres, December 1, and will remain there permanently thruout the season. Subsequently other countries in South America and the new field will be developed. The show will be organized here and shipt in two divisions, sailing November 1 and November 15. Contracts to wild west performers will be issued for three months, six months and a year; with fares paid both ways from New York. . . . Billboard, September 27, 1913, p. 24. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Arnold's Dog & Pony Circus - 1910
Wanted, for Arnold's Dog and Pony Circus. Performers of all kinds. Band of 8 to 10 mouth pieces, concert people, musicians, B. & O.; colored band for side show; boss canvasman, property men, grooms, billposters, programers, agent. Show opens May 16. Address J. J. Devaux, Portland, Ore. Billboard, May 7, 1910, p. 48.
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Emil A. Arp's - 1917-19, 1920 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1918-1920
1917:
Davenport, Ia., Dec. 14. Emil A. Arp's Great American Circus has gone into winter quarters here following a short season. The show will reopen the latter part of April somewhat larger and will travel by wagons instead of railroad. The big show top next year will be 90 feet, the sideshow will be 50 feet. Ivan Killion will again be boss canvasman and Ed (Buffalo) Schroeder has been re-engaged to handle the advance. Billboard, December 22, 1917, p. 179.
1918:
Winter quarters. Emil A. Arp's Great American Circus, Emil A. Arp, proprietor, 4th and Cedar sts., Davenport, Ia.; office, Zenith Theater Bldg. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
The Emil A. Arp Great American Circus and the De Luxe Amusement Co. will not venture forth this year. None of the property will be sold, as the show will go out after the war. Manager Arp will engage in newspaper work. Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 33.
Davenport, Ia., April 20. The Emil A. Arp Great American Circus will be about the smallest circus on tour this season, opening near here May 4 with twelve people. A fifty-foot round top with one middle piece will be used, and jerkwater towns will be made. A small sideshow will be carried. There will be no ring stock or menagerie. Several aerial acts and plenty of clowns will help make up the program. The only animals with the show will be some monkeys, porcupines and a bucking mule, and a den of snakes. E. R. Peters will be on hand with her aerial act. Ivan Killion will have charge of the canvas, and L. Engelden will be 24-hour agent. The advance will be handled by "Buffalo" Ed Shroeder. Ray Henle will be business manager. The show will move in not more than five wagons. Billboard, April 27, 1918, p. 30.
Route, Emil A. Arp's: Donahue, Ia., 1; Dixon 3. Billboard, May 25, 1918, p. 87.
1919:
Davenport, Ia., Jan. 11. — As the present quarters of the Emil A. Arp Great American Circus at Manager Arp's home, Fourth and Cedar streets, this city, is too small for anything but the storing of tbe outfit he has decided to move to winter quarters to a small town in this section, and the one in which tbe show will open the season (to be announced later), where there is ample room for the establishing of a ring barn and accommodations for work that is necessary before the opening early in May. The show will more to the new quarters about January 15. This will mark the third season for this attraction. It will be a two-car show and will have a 70x150 foot big top, a 40x70 menagerie and 50 foot round top for the sideshow. Nearly all the old people have been re-engaged for the coming season. Mr. Engeldew, formerly 24-hour man, will have charge of the sideshow this year. — Art Lodell. Billboard, January 18, 1919, p. 65.
Davenport, Ia., Feb. 8. The opening of Emil A. Arp's Great American Circus has been set for May 3, and Oxford Junction, Ia., has been picked as the initial stand of the season. During the first half of the season Iowa, Illinois and Indiana will be covered, the territory for the latter half not yet decided. Mr. Arp had intended to move his quarters, but has found a suitable location here. James Parnell dropped over from McGregor, Ia. Parnell, last season with Sun Bros., carried home contracts for the furnishing of the big show band. Mr. Engledew, formerly 24-hour man, is now sideshow manager. - Art Ladell. Billboard, February 15, 1919, p. 68.
Davenport, Ia., Feb. 22. Emil A. Arp Great American Circus. Manager Arp and L. Engledon, sideshow manager, returned to winter quarters, having purchased some needed show properties recently. James Parnell is putting his big show band through the mill daily. H. Clark will have his eight-pony drill, four pony pickout, bucking mules, riding dogs and monks with the show this season. Prince Herrion, the armless wonder, will be presented for the first time in America in the annex. Jack Shadow, blind bag puncher, who punches 10 bags at one time, will also be in the annex. Besides the annex, Mr. Clark will have his animal pit show with the show. The show will open early in May at Oxford, Ia. - Art La Dell. Billboard, March 1, 1919, p. 68.
Davenport, Ia. Instead of going out a two-car show, Emil A. Arp's Circus will take the road this season as an overland outfit, using eight wagons. Billboard, April 5, 1919, p. 70.
Davenport, Ia., Aug. 8. The Emil A. Arp Great American Circus will again take the road about the middle of October and tour the South. According to present plans the show will remain out all winter and come North next spring and go over the old route. Mr. Arp has severed his connection with the Miller Circus, and is preparing for a few Northern fairs before he goes South. The show will move in one car. The round top will be a fifty, with two thirty-foot middle pieces. A 30x50 menagerie will be carried; also a 20x40 sideshow and a single pit show. Mr. Arp will cut out horse acts and devote his ring to other animal acts and present novel ground attractions. No parade will be given on the Southern tour. Mr. Arp expects to have most of his 1918 staff back with him for the trip. Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 44.
Davenport, Ia., Aug. 15. The Emil A. Arp Great American Circus will either go South into the cotton belt as a one-ring circus or as an elaborate indoor circus. The show will move in one car. Art Ladell, who has been with Arp Circus since its first opening in May, 1916, will again pilot the outfit. In case the show opens as an indoor circus, manager Arp will use a four or five reel super feature film in the form of an opening pageant. Mr. Arp will endeavor to present three or four animal acts. All horse acts will be eliminated. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 90.
1920:
Emil A. Arp's Great American Circus: Emil A. Arp, proprietor and manager; Chas. Pullen, assistant manager; E. A. Arp, treasurer; Chas. Pullen, secretary and press agent back with show; A. Ladell, general agent and press agent in advance; Larry Ingledew, manager side show; E. A. Arp, equestrian director; H. E. (Buffalo) Schroeder, supt. privileges; Ivan Killion, supt. canvas and supt. lights; Buck McCaslin, boss hostler; B. McCaslin, supt. ring stock and supt. animals; Ivan Killion, supt. working crew. Will travel in five wagons. Open at Quenemo, Kan., about November 5, for fifteen weeks winter tour. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
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Arthur Bros. Circus - 1943-1945 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1943-45
1943:
"Arthur Bros. Circus. Titonia, Empress, Duchess and Sahara; Captain Van Der Wall's fighting lions; the Great Manuel, 'King of the slack wire,'; Elnore Veldarde 'queen of the flying trapeze,' and the Cliff Henry troupe of aerialists." Oakland Tribune (Oakland, CA), May 19, 1943, p. 10.
The first circus of the year will play in Yuma next Thursday and Friday, Oct. 13 and 14, when Arthur Bros. bring their three-ring show to play two performances daily. Advance agents of the show say that the circus is coming to Yuma after a successful engagement throughout the state of California, Oregon and Washington. Shows on Thursday and Friday will commence at 3 p.m. and 8 p.m. each day. The circus grounds will be located on U. S. highway 80 between 13th and 14th Sts. Doors of the nig tent will be open one hour before starting time to permit patrons to visit the side shows and menagerie which is free to all circus patrons. The Arthur Bros, advance agent said that the circus probably is most famous for its highly trained elephants. Among other spectacular acts are the famous Olivia Bros., Miss Conchita, renowned equilibrist; the Olivera troupe of head and perch balancers; Senorita Espenanza, Mel Henry and his funsters and a score of other famous names. Yuma Daily Sun and Arizona Sentinel (Yuma, AZ), October 12, 1943, p. 3.
1944:
"Arthur Brothers circus — will arrive at the Fruitvale lot for a four-day stand, so this department has been credibly informed by Ed Beck, who figns his stuff N. Edward Beck — a throwback to the day when he tootled the horn for M-G-M. The Arthur Brothers' show at the moment is a truck or wagon show, but it has ambitions, and if and when the Foley & Burke outfit emerges from probate litigation, theArthurs will take over the rolling stock, some 30-odd cars, and become a high-toned affair. Meantime, thanks to the foresight of Martin E. Arthur, the show has been adding to its stock and performers until — and again, N. Edward Beck is the authority quoted — it has a show that is able to hold its place with the best of the small shows. We'll know more about that next Thursday. Martin E. Arthur is a Seattle product, who made his dip into show business as a boy magician in school entertainments. His heart was set on becoming another Thurston, Houdini or even Carter the Great, when he happened to attend a circus and became a new man. Law, which had beenvicariously engaging his attention at the University of Washington, no longer became an essential industry. Two years ago Arthur acquired one elephant, a pachyderm called Old Dutch. With that for a start, the rest was comparatively easy. Today he possesses a herd of 'bulls,' including the only twin baby elephants in captivity in this country. His troupe travels in 50 transport carriers — gas made possible by bond sales and the like — and he has alikely looking program. This season, under new canvas, he has Poodles Hanneford as equestrian director; the Escalante troupe of aerial artists; Sonny Moore's high school dogs and ponies; Mrs. Tom Mix and the Mix Horse, Tony 3rd; Captain Christiansen and his Liberty horses; and several other items. The Arthur Brothers' circus may not yet be in the Ringling Brothers' class, or even the Cole outfit, but it is growing by leaps and bounds, and it does function this year as a harbinger of Spring." Ogden Standard-Examiner (Ogden, UT), August 3, 1944, p. 3.
1945:
In 1945 the show Traveled on 6 flat cars, 3 sleepers, 2 stock cars and several trucks. Leased wagons from Goebel. 1945 Staff: Martin E. Arthur, owner, manager . . . George Coe [Cos?], general manager; Bernice Collins, book-keeper; Mrs. Larry Black, red wagon ticket seller, payroll. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 15, 1973, p. 7.
1945 Arthur Bros. Circus route is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1963 (scroll down or use find).
Article on the Arthur Bros. Circus, 1942-1945 is online in Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 1962 (scroll down or use find).
Martin Arthur did not take his show out in 1946 due to bad luck the previous season. In 1946 he had some sideshows on the Douglas Carnival. White Tops, November-December, 1946, Vol. 19, Nos. 11-12, p. 28.
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Ash's Great United Shows - 1897
William J. Ash (or Ashe). Information on this show in Badger State Showmen, Fred Dahlinger, Jr. & Stuart Thayer, Madison, WI: Grote Publishing, 1998, p. 109.
Ashborn's Dog & Pony Show - 1909, 1912, 1918
At the Idle Hour, the Ashborn Great Dog and Pony Show last evening. Rome Daily Sentinel (Rome, NY), January 29, 1909, p. 2.
Walter J. Ashborn, of Ashborn's Dog and Pony Circus, has cancelled his contract with Leon Washburn Shows for the coming season, owing to the demand for his act in vaudeville. Billboard, March 27, 1909, p. 19.
The Cortland theatre . . . Ashborn's Circus is the best animal show seen in the city in years. The dogs are wonderful. They perform tricks which seem impossible and the pony answered questions asked by people from the audience. Cortland Standard (Cortland, NY), October 15, 1909, p. 4.
At the Moose carnival last night, Ashborn's dog and pony and monkey circus . . . Daily News (Frederick, MD), May 18, 1912, n.p.n.
The Dorman & Krause shows will arrive Sunday . . . its various attractions include Ashborn's Dog, Pony and Monkey circus . . . Elyria Evening Telegram, June 7, 1918, n.p.n.
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Asher's Dog & Pony Show - 1925 Show is listed for 1922 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Sioux City, July 10. Twelve draft horses owned by Sam Chapman, and three trained goats, a pony and a monkey, part of the Frank Asher dog and pony show, were cremated early today in a fire which gutted the Chapman barn. Oskaloosa Daily Herald (Oskaloosa, IA), July 10, 1925, p. 2. Information should be checked with additional sources. Do you have more information on this show?
Albrecht Bros. Circus - 1936, 1938; Albright's - 1955-59, 1960, 1963-64 Listed 1899, ca 1963 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Listed 1899, E. H. Allbright in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
Albright's method of training his dogs, (he owns 15 Spitz's, two wire-haired terriers and three albino huskies), is unique. The secret of his success, he belives, is patience and kindness. His theory is borne out, at least outwardly, by the performance of each of his "showmen" - so eager to do their acts that they could hardly contain themselves until their time to perform. In fact several of the dogs would run out to meet Albright before the preceding act was finished. Albright usually starts training a dog when it is about seven months old. He starts "very easy," he says. "They've got to think it's play or else they freeze up." . . . In discussing the leap from the high ladder by his dog Cupid, Albright reports that the last accident occured in 1936. The dog he was using for the high dive was treated, but never jumped again. That is why today Albright uses a protective screen at the top of the sixty foot ladder to prevent the dog from falling to the rear as he faces the crowd. "That point is the most dangerous part of the whole act," Albright says. . . .
Albright has been in the business for 33 years and in that time he has trained dogs all over the United States and in Canada. . . . Leo Albright is a medium-sized, bald-headed friendly man who is now 63 years old. He started in the dog training business 33 years ago. . . . Mitchell Daily Republic (Mitchell, SD), July 10, 1953, p. 3.
Leo Albright, a trouper's trouper had sawdust in his veins from a boy on. His day dreams were that
of joining a circus and as soon as he was old enough, he did just that. He soon learned to be a "Jack of all Trades" in a circus tent, and while working with
different circuses before World War 1, he learned the nack of training dogs and ponies. After the war, and after serving his country, he set out with his own
small "mud show" under the title of Albright Bros. Circus. Mud Shows in those times were so called because the roads were mostly dirt roads. Times were tough and show biz was tougher. Depression came and Albright found himself down and out six times a week. In those times the old adage went "A little lean, a little fat", but Leo can tell you it was mostly lean. He remembers trouping in Iowa [without] any gravel roads, and the slogan of Governor Herring, "I took Iowa out of the mud". In 1935, he was stranded at Greenfield, Iowa for five weeks, even locomotives were buried in snow. And in 1935, he remembers showing on the streets of Ruthven.
We might mention that Sonny was master of ceremonies, and his wife did acrobats on the swinging ladder, and his young son rode the pony. The girl on the trampaleen was the daughter of the clown. Leo himself, was the wire walker, acrobat and the head of the show and only 66 years young. Yes, the circus will live on and on in the Albright family. They've found that somehow, it gets in your blood, that even with its ups and downs, or downs and outs, "There's No Business Like Show Business", and we of Ruthven consider their show one of the best we have ever had as well as the cleanest. Ruthven Free Press (Ruthven, IA), September 3, 1956, p. 1.
The big show opens with a troupe of drill ponies, and a talking and pickout pony, troupe of dogs and goats, talking dog, riding dogs, etc. are on the program. A one-ring circus performance, complete with aerial acts, triple bar, contortion, flying ladders, revolving ladders, head balancing, etc., is given in connection with the dog and pony show, and five really funny clowns produce good numbers. Prominent among the performers are Charles Alderfer, Alderfer Sisters, Sam Copeland, Burt Pitts, Great Carl, Prof. Manski and Renzo. Sam Copeland is producing clown and Nick Carter, Burt Pitts and Sammy Freed make the assistants. The concert consists of several vaudeville acts, two reels of motion pictures and a complete set of the Willard-Johnson fight slides. No matinees are given. The parade goes out at seven o'clock. Mr. Alderfer reports that although in May he had aout twenty-three days of rain, salaries have been paid every week and money sent to the home bank, besides several new horses and animals were purchased. It has been a fair season under the existing conditions. . . . Billboard,, July 10, 1915, p. 57.
1915: The Alderfer overland shows closed a successful season at Peru this week, and went into winter quarters at Denver. Charles Alderfer and J. Ross Woodring, the owners, say arrangements are to be made for increasing the circus property so that next year the shows will go out as the largest overland circus in the country. Rochester Sentinel (IN), Wednesday, October 13, 1915.
1892: On the road, circuses: Allen's, New Florence, Pa. May 11. (May not be this Allen's circus) New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
Allen's show on Thursday evening was largely attended and quite a good performance was given. Middletown Daily Press (Middletown, NY), July 22, 1892, n.p.n.
Pine Rush(?) . . . Allen's circus is to be here Wednesday, July 27. Middletown Daily Press (Middletown, NY), July 26, 1892, n.p.n.
"Pinky," one of three who left Goshen with Allen's circus, returned to Goshen yesterday after but two days' experience as a canvasman. The others are expected home daily. Middletown Daily Press (Middletown, NY), July 27, 1892, n.p.n.
Ellenville. Allen's show exhibits in town Friday. Middletown Daily Press (Middletown, NY), July 28, 1892, n.p.n.
Ellenville. Allen's show, last Friday, failed to draw large audiences, it being a "one-horse" concern. Middletown Daily Press (Middletown, NY), Thursday, August 4, 1892, n.p.n.
Miss Jennie Sylvester, in her double menage act, will introduce her team of Frankene thoroughbreds. Miss Lottie, lady rider performing on a bareback horse. Mlle. Ella Zogrenia, equestrienne. Walter B. Aymer, bareback rider. Master Willie, boy rider, the coming pad rider of the arena. The Milos, John, James and Francois, gymansts of the German empire. John Hunterson, flying hurricane rider. Frank J. Howes, master horseman, trainer, educator and importer will introduce his Kentucky thoroughbreds. Frank Morosco, man of many forms and tumbler from Cuba. Charles Morosco, slack wire and juggler. Ryder Brothers, tumblers. John Nelson, champion leaper of England. 4 comical clowns, W. Fred Aymar, John Nelson, James O'Brien, W. T. Aymer. W. Fred Aymar's London Humpty Dumpty pantomime company. Full troupe of tumblers and leapers. Grand procession at 10 a.m. each day of exhibition. Admission, adults 50 cts., children under 9 years, 25 cents. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. Performance one hour later. [Advertisement] Western New-Yorker (Warsaw, NY), June 10, 1880, n.p.n.
On the road, circuses: Geo. W. Allen's, Franklin PA May 19. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.
1891: W. A. Ament writes: "I have sold my interest in the sideshow to my partner, C. T. Taylor, who will continue with Hurlbrt & Leftwich's Circus for the balance of the season. We have had a very prosperous season in the Northwest. I will organize at once and take out a brand new fair ground show, playing all the principal fairs from Chicago to the Gulf of Mexico. Roster: W. D. Ament, sole proprietor and manager; Harry Brady, first door talker and assistant manager; Harry Alfredo, Kitty Al?redo, Mexican Billy, Nanna Bristow, Mlle. Zazell, Harry Morton, lecturer and door talker; Mrs. Harry Brady, the wild men of Borneo and Roda (half lady). New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
1891: W. D. Ament has sold his interest in the sideshow with Hurlbert & Leftwich's Circus to his former partner, C. T. Taylor, at Fargo, S.D. Before leaving, Mr. Ament gave a reception to the sideshow and concert people. He will organize a strong fair ground show. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
1891: W. D. Ament reports that success attends him with his Wild West Fair Ground Show. Robert Bruce and wife and the Marlin Sisters joined Aug. 4. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
1892: W. D. Ament will have the sideshow privilege with the Gregory & Belford Circus this season. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
1892: Notes from Mexican Billy's Show. Mt. Sterling proved to be the banner week of the season. Princess Nanna, wife of Mexican Billy, goes home on a visit this week. Annie Nichelson(Nicholson?), sister in law of Mexican Billy, is making us a pleasant visit. Robt. Bruce, our one man band, met with a painful accident the other day. While Charlie Wilson, on of the employes was cleaning Billy's rifle, it accidently exploded and hit Mr. Bruce in the ankle, fortunately only inflicting a painful would. Mr. Bruce, being a graduate physician, probed for the bullet and dressed the wound himself. He is getting around all right. Several people will join next week, and the show will make a long trip South. Mrs. W. D. Ament received a gold headed umbrella(?) last week, that was stolen from her early in the Spring, while she was touring Indiana with the Gregory & Belford Circus. New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 406.
1892: Ad. At liberty. W. D. Ament & wife (Mexican Billy) and (Princess Nana). Has a sideshow outfit. Details. Ad has their portraits.] New York Clipper, December 3, 1892, p. 631.
1893: Dr. Harry Brady has bought a one-third interest in W. D. Ament's sideshow, and together they will take the sideshow privilege with the Gollmar Bros. Show next season. Charles P. Wilson has signed for the coming season as boss canvas man and Punch and Judy performer, making his second season with Mr. Ament. New York Clipper, March 11, 1893, p. 5.
1893. Wait for the Big Shows! Coming Soon. Gollmar Bros.' Great Shows, Circus and Menagerie in all its vast completeness will exhibit at Spencer, Saturday, July 22nd. . . . free street parade at 12:30 every day . . . headed by the world famous Mexican Billy doing all kinds of fancy shooting on horse back while leading the parade . . . Spencer Herald (Spencer, IA), July 12, 1893.
1893 Mr. W. D. Ament, formerly of this city, is "home again" with a tent exhibition. "Mexican Billy" does some fancy rifle shooting and renders specialties, with the assistance of Harry Brady, Princess Nanna, and a company. In tent on the Square - two performances each evening. Lyons Weekly Mirror (Lyons, IA), July 22, 1893.
1893: Roster of Mexican Billy's Wild West Show: W. D. Ament and Harry Brady, proprietors; Princess Nanna, Will Brown, Master ???, Daisy Dixon(?), E?? White, Mrs. C. Nicholas and Charlie Dunn. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 394.
1893: [Ad] At liberty Oct. 20, Mexican Billy, W. D. Ament. Fancy rifle show, musical artist, ventriloquist, assisted by Princess Nanna, mind reader. Home address, W. D. Ament, Muscatine, Iowa. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 520.
1893: Mexican Billy's Wild West Fair Ground Show closed a successful season at Belle Plaine, Ia., Oct. 7. Mexican Billy and wife left for Chicago where they played a very successful engagement on the Midway Plaisance. They are now en route to California, where they will play a long engagement at the Midwinter Fair. New York Clipper, November 11, 1893, p. 577.
1896: Childrens' grand toy matinee at Billy Aments circus. Tomorrow every child receives a handsome present. Admission only 10c. Daily Leader (Davenport, IA), May 15, 1896.
1896 Ad. Gollmar Bros. Great Shows, Circus and Menagerie . . . street parade headed by the world famous Mexican Billy doing all kinds of fancy shooting on horseback while leading the parade. Stevens Point Daily Journal (Stevens Point, WI), June 2, 1896.
1896: A big crowd attended Capt. Aments show which opened last night at the corner of Eldorado and College streets and everybod seemed pleased with the performance which is out of the ordinary order of circus performances. The captain's rifle shooting is a feature of the performance. He shoots glass balls, apples, pigeons and articles held in a man's hand with marvelous accuracy. The theatrical performance is also worth seeing. One of the most interesting numbers of the program is the work of the contortionist. He is an unusually fine performer. Friday night a gold watch and a silver cup will be awarded to the best amateur performer on the stage. Bulletin-Sentinel (Decatur, IL), August 22, 1896.
1900: Last evening a good sized crowd attended the second evening performance given by Capt. Ament's circus aggregation. . . . the tent shouls be crowded at the small price asked. Daily Gazette (Janesville, WI), June 27, 1900, p. 1.
1900: Show played Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, July 1 to 4, 1900. Billboard, July 7, 1900, p. 5.
1902: . . . Beloit Daily News: Hundreds of people were turned away last night owing to the great crowds who desired to see this big novelty. It is indeed a beautiful performance . . . Ten people take part and the many mysterious illusions are simply wonderful. Capt. Ament, the well known manager, has a gold mine in this attraction as it is the feature of the carnival. Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette (Cedar Rapids, IA), September 27, 1902, p. 23.
• An article on the 1940 Bud E. Anderson Jungle Oddities and Circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 4, pp. 16-25.
• An article on the 1941 Bud E. Anderson Jungle Oddities and Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 6, pp. 50-56.
Stephen Anderson, age 42, born abt 1878 in Indiana; lives in Shelby, Ripley Co., Indiana; occupation, showman, wild west.
Alice Anderson, wife, age 33, born Indiana.
Eddie Anderson, age 2
Source: 1920; Census Place: Shelby, Ripley, Indiana; Roll: T625_462; Page: 4B; Enumeration District: 167.
• Information on the 1888 Charles Andress' Carnival of Curiosities and Trained Animal Exposition is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 1, pp. 51-52.
The Andress circus that was doing our city yesterday is one of the biggest combinations of cut-throats and thieves. Practically there is no true show about the whole thing. The street parade was far below average while the ring performances have been surpassed by the feats of farmer boys in their barn yards. Vile women and coarse men engaged in every kind of gambling scheme and ribaldry. Burlington Hawk-Eye (Burlington, IA), May 28, 1889, p. 3.
Notes from the Andress Shows. Mrs. Andress’ mother has returned to her home at Chicago, Ill., after visiting a week with her daughter. Walters and Gray and Louise Llewellyn have closed with the show, and are filling an engagement at Kansas City, Mo. Karoley Ordey has started a new enterprise in the shape of a lunch counter for the benefit of performers and musicians. He carries a fine stock of pie, sandwiches, cigars, cigarettes, tobacco and “mineral waters.” His “joint” is very popular. New York Clipper, September 28, 1889, p. 478.
Notes from the Andress Show. Doc. Miller, equestrian director, closed at Birmingham, Ala., and returned to his family. . . . New York Clipper, November 2, 1889, p. 567.
Notes from the Andress Shows. The Andress Circus showed at Savannah, Ga., Dec. 23 to 25(?), to good business. The weather during our stay was exceptionally fine, warm and pleasant. On Christmas morning many presents were exchanged among the members of the company. F.(?) E. Davis, our genial advance agent, was presented with a handsome gold watch, chain and locket by friends connected with the show. Mrs. F.(?) E. Davis presented Chas. Andress with a pair of sleeve buttons of Roman gold, set with diamonds, a valuable and very useful present. Mrs. Andress was also the recipient of a dressing case, bracelets and numerous fancy and toilet articles. Dinner was served at 4.30 p.m., and the bill of fare embraced all the usual Christmas delicacies. At its conclusion Tom and Jerry was served, toasts were drunk and the day passed, to be long remembered by the participants in the festivities as a very pleasurable occasion. New York Clipper, January 4, 1890, p. 711.
Andress' Circus and Menagerie will open its sixth tenting season, New Orleans, Feb. 2(?), remaining in N. O. three weeks before taking the road for season of '90. Wanted, performers in every branch of circus business, riders, with or without stock; also billposters. We left N. O. April __, and many of the knowing ones gave me two weeks, but, instead, I am coming back with a larger and better show, and expect to make two season without closing doors. Billposter direct F. E.(?) Davies. All other communications to Chas. Andress, Andress' Circus, New Orleans. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 799.
New Orleans, La. Crowded tents at Andress' Circus and Menagerie . . . Manager Andress deserves credit for having collected so fine a collection of wild animals. The ring performance is exceptional. . . . Joseph Lewis, the contortionist, was good . . . Emma Lewis, the slack wire performance; Mme. Maynard, who gave an exhibition of her iron jaw . . . New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 807.
Notes from Andress' Circus. We are now exhibiting at New Orleans to immense business, and arranging for our Spring opening. The show will be enlarged and strengthened by the addition of several cages of animals, and the ring performance will be very strong. F.(?) E.(?) Davis has been engaged as general director of advance and railroad contractor . . . New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 829.
Andress' Big Circus, Menagerie and Real Roman Hippodrome, want to buy an advance car, also flat cars. Andress' Circus, New Orleans, La. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 834.
A few more good performers and general circus people. Can write for engagements; join immediately. Address Andress' Circus, New Orleans, La. New York Clipper, March 1, 1890, p. 846.
Andress' Circus is still doing a big business, and adds new features to the performances daily. During the performance Feb. __, Mrs. Maynard, the iron jawed woman, while performing her feat of hanging by her teeth from a leather strap suspended in mid air, was ___ to the ground by the ___ of the strap, and had the fracturing her left arm at the wrist and loosening all of her teeth. Mrs. Manard informed your correspondent that this was the first accident that has ever happened to her, although she has been performing this feat for the past twelve years. . . . About April _ manager Andress intends taking his departure from this city. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 853.
Little Willie Green has signed with the Ringling Bros.' Circus for this season and with the Andress Circus for the winter season of 1890-91. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 5.
Wanted for Andress' Circus, season of 1890, glassblowers for sideshow on percentage or salary; also streetmen with good selling novelties. Transportation first class. Address De Arley & O'Brien, managers of privileges, New Orleans, La., care Andress' Circus. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 13.
St. Louis, Missouri. The stage of the Exposition Music Hall will be given up to Chas. Andress' Circus. They will build a ring to accomodate the horses, etc., and the show will open May 12(?). This will be the first circus that has ever exhibited at the ___ Hall. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 119.
Chas. Andress writes us as follows: "I have not closed the doors of my show since March 1, 1889(?), but found time during the ten weeks we played New Orleans this winter to repair and decorate everything with the show, and add ten new wagons and six cars. . . . The roster for this season: Chas. Andress, sole owner and manager . . . L.(?) Andress, treasurer; A. J. Wildes, secretary; F. E(?) Davis, general agent and railroad contractor; W. W. Downing, contracting agent; J. B. Mitchell, superintendent car No. 1, with twelve assistants . . . Lew F. Sunlin, two performing donkeys; Allie Jackson, menage act; Doc Miller, equilibrist; Joe Lewis, contortionist; Emma Lewis, juggleer and slack wire act . . . Ollie(?) Maynard, iron jaw act; Harry O'Brien, contortionist; Harry Costello, balancing trapeze; Mme. L. Andress, double menage act . . . Geo. L.(?) Wood's six educated Shetland ponies. The line of leaps is very strong, as there are six men doing double somersaults, headed by the champion, Wm. H.(?) Batcheller. Doc Miller is equestrian director, Jack Braddoc superintendent of canvas with sixty assistants, Frank Scott, master of transportation . . . In parade there are twenty cages, two elephants, two camels, three tableaux, a pony chariot . . . Mrs. Andress now appears in parade, with her tandem team of thoroughbreds. In the concert are: . . . Little Mollie, child song and dance; Jack Murphy, banjoist; and Campbell and Elaney, Irish comedians. O'Brien and De Artey(Arley?) manage the sideshow. . . . In the museum department . . . the curiosities are: . . . Frank Hubin, Punch and Judy; the two Cavalers, Albinos; Zip, one of the original ___; Maj. Springer, midget . . . New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 126.
Little Rock, Arkansas. Andress' Circus came May ?. with the intention of staying only a day, but, being detained by high water, remained five days, giving a good show daily to crowded canvas. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 147.
George Ramlet(?) and Allie Maynard, iron jaw lady, both of the Andress Circus, were married at St. Louis May 11. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 167.
Wanted, for Andress' Circus, people in all branches of the circus business, for ring No. 2, riders with or without stock. Answer as per route, Moberly, Mo., May 21, Ottumwa, Iowa, 22, Kirksville, Mo., 23, Macon, Mo. 24, Brusnwick, Mo. 26, Kansas City, 27. Chas. Andress. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 173.
A new departure. Sells & Andress' Combined Shows. Greatly enlarged and augmented. More anon. People in all branches of the business. Write or telegraph, . . . Cedar Rapids, 9; Central City, 14; Ord, 13. William Sells, Chas. Andress, equal owners. New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 207.
On the Road, Circuses: Sells and Andress', Central City, Neb., June 12, Ord, 13. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210.
Wanted for Sells & Andress' Combined Railroad Shows, people in all branches of the circus business, lady gymnasts, aerialits and Three Brother act, a good knockabout and talking clown. Would like to hear from a boss hostler. Address as per route: . . . Osceola 21, David City 23, Valparaiso 24, Cortland 25, Blue Springs 26, Marysville, Kas. 27, Fairbury, Neb. 28, Hanover, Kas. 30. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 237.
The Sells & Andress' Circus and Menagerie will be sold at public auction, Aug. ?, at St. Joseph, Mo., by order of the Court. New York Clipper, July 26, 1890, p. 307.
. . .The Sells & Andress Show virtually closed its brief career at St. Joseph, Mo., July 1?, when a receiver was appointed and the outfit safely housed until it can be legally sold. A number of complications led up to this result. "Add" Sells, one of the most financially sound of the famous Sells Brothers, holds a mortgage on the show in the sum of $10,000, which interest he intended to eventually assign to his son, Wm. Sells, the well known jockey rider. Everything has not been as calm as a May moring since the new proprietorship was formed, and it looked as though the final day of settlement would come when the show reached Topeka, Kas., the home of the financial backers. Hence Mr. Andress and his advisers [sic] thought best to suddenly change the route, and ship the show into Missouri, regardless of the stands that had already been advertised in another direction. Consequently, Mr. Sells argued that it would be best to ask for a receiver, and, if possible, find out just what the future of the show would be. This will be discovered when the sale takes place. . . . New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 323.
Col. John F.(P.?) Tyler, a wealthy citizen of St. Joseph, Mo., was recently appointed receiver for the Sells & Andress Circus and Menagerie, which closed in that city a few weeks ago, on account of disagreements between the two jproprietors. Col. Tyler kept the elephants, two camels and five ring horses on one of his vacant lots in the south part of the city, and employed the old keeper of the elephants to take charge of them until he could dispose of the menagerie. On the night of July 28(?) the animals were stolen, and their whereabouts have not yet been discovered. Mr. Andress claimed this portion of the menagerie, and he and the elephant keeper are both said to be missing. It has since been learned that the menagerie was taken across the river at Rolo(?), Neb., 27. The property is valued at $7,000(?). New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 323.
St. Louis, Missouri. Clarence Robinson, the well known bareback rider, late of Andress' Circus, has been resting here for several days. New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 326.
The Sells & Andress Circus and Menagerie will be sold at private sale, August 4, 1890, in St. Joseph, Mo. . . . Bid on elephant, two camels and ___ good horses separate. John F. Tyler, receiver. New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 335.
Charles Andress, writing from Great Bend, Kas., Aug. 26(?), gives his version of the recent closing of the Sells and Andress' Circus as follows: When I left New Orleans with my show, April 7, it was considered to be complete, consisting of sixteen cars, two sleepers, two stock, one elephant car, one baggage car, one tough [sic] and eight flats, nine cages, forty head of horses and ponies and a fine ring performance. The company consisted of over one hundred people. The first four days out our afternoon houses were light, but our night houses were very large. This prompted us all with the belief that the show was a sure winner. But ___ dismay seemed to cross our path from that time until the present. At Shreveport, La., the fifth stand, we sturck rain, and from that time on we were in the floods of Texas and Arkansas, losing from three to five days, and on some occastions we were completely overflowed. This state of affairs lasted until we opened at St. Louis (Exposition Building), May 12, where we did a good business for one week. Notwithstanding the fact that I had exhausted all my ready finances(?) and had drawn several thousands of dollars from Great Bend, and my friends aided me more than I asked for, I found the receipts insufficient to meet the pressing demands. From st. Louis we had two weeks of one day stands to Kansas City, and only for bad weather would have undoubtedly done a fair business; but ___ was, we only paid our current expenses. Here Allen Sells, of Topeka, and his son, William, came to visit the show, with views of buying. The first I knew of their intentions was when I met them on the lot. Mr. Sells explained his views, that he wished to put his son in business with me, and we finally came to an agreement. I began to find out, when too late, that my troubles had only begun. I was told by friends that I should be cautious, and that if Mr. Sells wanted his son in the business, he could easily start him. I know you would not print the personal difficulties we had from that time on, under the new title of Sells & Andress, but will say from __ seemed as if my troubles has only fairly begun. The show, for some unknown reason, was very badly handled. No salaries were paid, and in less than five weeks it was in the hands of a receiver. Mr. Sells bonded(?) his son's horse and some other stuff out, and nothing but my personal property remained to be sold to satisfy my share of the firm debts, which amounted to $1,600, and the property sold Aug. 4 brought $2,964.40, with very few bidders, who were bent on seeing it go for almost nothing. Lew Sells (of Sells Bros.) was by the side of Allen Sells, and bid in a large portion of stuff(stock?) which afterwards was shipped to Topeka. Some of the property still remains unsold, and is held by the receiver. The above did not include any cages or animals. The show complete cost me over $25,000, and I have nothing to show for it. As to my future, I hardly know what I shall do yet. I have many offers from friends to start me out again, and I also have offers from different companies for opera house engagemetns, but I think I shall start out again with a small opera house show for the winter. I will no explain the sequel of the stolen elephant (as the press had it): When we concluded to dissolve partnership, I owed Allen Sells $2,140, and gave him, as security, a contract bill of sale of the big elephant "Zip" and two camels, with stipulations setting forth the fact that when the amount had been paid to him he should relinquish his claim. My brother, J. T. Andress, came on from Great Bend, and paid the amount. He took from Mr. Sells a legal transfer of the property, ordained by the Court as his without recourse, and accordingly J. T. took possession of his property. After a few days had passed it occurred to Wm. Sells thought it would be a good thing to sell the elephant and camels at auction, so he seized the animals and placed them in the hands of receiver. The Judge, while in chambers, could not order them released, but some of the best legal advice in St. Joseph said that my brother could get possession of his property - he had a right to them. Mr. Tyler, the receiver, while he made every effort to find them, was entirely unable to do so, and, after the found out that they were safely landed in Great Bend, he was free in remarking that he was glad of it - that the animals belonged to J. T. Andress, and he hoped he had them safe. Not caring to have an elephant on his hands, my brother sold the animals to the First National Bank of Great Bend, and what disposition they will make of them I don't know. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 420.
Chas. Andress' Gift Show will take the road this month. New York Clipper, October 11, 1890, 487.
Karoly Ordey, the well known juggler, who had been connected with Andress' Circus several seasons past, and who was killed at Graniteville, S. C., was buried here 23(?). [Washington, DC]. Mrs. Roseberry(?), who is well known to all members of the variety stage who have ever visited Washington as the proprietress of a popular boarding house for the profession, had the body brought here at her own expense, and had it interred in her own lot at Oak Hill Cemetery. The twelve year old son of the deceased has been taken in charge by Mrs. Roseberry(?), who will care for and ___ him. Karoly Ordey was a member of Providence Lodge of Elks, and his dues were paid up to June, ___. New York Clipper, January 4, 1890(1891?), p. 713.
Route, Emil A. Arp's: Donahue, Ia., June 1; Dixon 3; New Liberty 4; Bennett 5; Sunbury 6; Stockton 7; Durant 8. Billboard, June 1, 1918, p. 47.
Route, Emil A. Arp's: Bennett, Ia., 5; Sunbury 6; Stockton 7; Durant 8. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 47.
Route, Emil A. Arp's: Leclaire, Ia., 12; Port Byron, Ill., 13; Genesco 15; Cambridge 17; Toulon 18. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 47.
Route, Emil A. Arp's: Knoxville, Ill., 19; Monmouth 20; Abingdon 21; Stronghurst 22; LaHarpe 24; Hamilton 25. Billboard, June 22, 1918, p. 47.
Route, Emil A. Arp's: Ft. Madison, Ia., 26; Farmington 27; Cantril 28; Milton 29; Pulaski, July 1; Bloomfield 2; Moulton 3. Billboard, June 29, 1918, p. 79.
"Circus Clowning Serious Business with Arthur Brothers Shows. Although the clown has always been the backbone of the circus the business of making people laugh is really a serious one. When Arthur Bros, bring their new big California circus to Brainerd, Saturday, July 14, they will present one of the wackiest groups ofbuffoons ever seen under any big top. Led by Dipsy Diggs, Doodles Brown and Pepita, Arthur Bros. clowns keep the show paced to a very fast tempo. The clown spends most of his time conceiving ways and means of making huge audiences laugh, yet he will never attempt anything at any time to cause pain or sorrow,for the clown is really a sentimental soul. Besides the clowns, Arthur Bros. circus features a varied specie of blooded horse flesh, from the big dapple greys, those staunch, broad-shouldered animals who pull theheavy wagons on the circus grounds to the superb thoroughbred creatures you see marching through those difficult drill routines. In Jorgen M. Christiansen's thoroughbreds, you will recognize the very epitome of equine aristocracy. Jorgen Christiansen is the famous Scandinavian horse trainer so much talked about and acclaimed as the world's greatest in his line.Arthur Bros, also carry a large contingent of tiny Shetland ponies for the little folks. The big show gives two performances in Brainerd Saturday, July 14th at the East Oak street circus grounds, at 2:30 and 8 p. m., doors opening one hour earlier to permit inspection of the menagerie. All Arthur circus tents are flame proofed for the public's protection. Arthur Bros, special railroad train will pull in on the Northern Pacific and the usual large crowd of circus fans and kids are expected to be on hand to greet the big circus. Brainer Daily Dispatch (Brainer, MN), July 11, 1945, p. 8.
"Among the ninety thrilling circus acts presented with Arthur Bros. Circus this season are: Ken Maynard in person and 'Tarzan,' the wonder horse of motion pictures; Jorgen M. Christiansen's world's famous Criollo, liberty horses; Cheerful Gardner's Royal Indianelephants, featuring Moe and Joe, twin baby pachyderms; Chala, first time in America, carried by his head in an elephant's mouth; the Great Ortons: Acevado Trio, Miss Arieletta, 'Queen of the Air'; Capt. Connors, Slide for Life. Le Dells, Hollywood Mad wags; Capt. Walter Jennier's motion picture sea lion, Buddy; the great Sing Lee Sing Troupe, and a thirty-five piece circus band under the direction of Charles Redrick . . . Arthur Bros. Circus is traveling on its own special train, all steel railroad cars. All the Arthur Bros. Circus tents are flame proof for the public's protection. Waukesha Daily Freeman (Waukesha, WI), July 31, 1945, p. 1.
"The ill-fated Arthur Bros, circus is still having its troubles, according to the Billboard, theatrical magazine. It stated a temporary injunction was granted in Boise, Idaho, on complaint of Martin E. Arthur and the circus from publishing or circulating documents which. Arthur describes as 'false and scandalous matter.' In a complaint filed at Boise, Arthur stated the circus had been damaged to the extent of $500,000 by the activities of the rival Russell Bros. circus in sending photostatic copies of press clippings to towns where the circus is to appear. Before the circus came here, the Freeman received a package of these clippings which told of gambling activities and other offenses allegedly committed in other towns. Police here checked the record of the circus in the state and found it to be satisfactory and so permission was granted for it to appear here." Waukesha Daily Freeman (Waukesha, WI), August 18, 1945, p. 6.
Ashton's Circus - 1891-92
1891: Roster of Ashton's Big Ten Cent Circus: Tony Ashton, manager; L. B. Reames, assistant manager; M. E. Ashton, treasurer. Performers: Ma??? Miles, Chas. George and John Bu???k, Harry Moran, Wm. Brown, Zaro Family, Millie May and Tony Ashton and his dogs. Band and orchestra: C. F. Adkins, leader, James S???n, Harry King, Jos. Rhoda(?), Luke Reed, Wm. White and L. H. Reames. The show opens at Shelbyville, Ind., May 4(?), and travels by rail. Everything is brand new.They carry a 70 ft. round top, with a 40 ft. middle piece. Bert Ashton has the privileges. Wm. Young, with five assistants, will handle the canvas. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 117.
1891: Ashton's Big Ten Cent Show opened at Shelbyville, Ind., May 11, and report a splendid business. Flint(?) Barlow and Oat Butterfield(?) have joined them. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
1891: On the road, circuses: Ashton's, Greensburg, Ind. May 27-30(?), Batesville June 1, 2, 3, Lawrenceburg 4-6. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
1892: Ashton's Olympic Show will open its season at London, Inds., April 28. The following people have been engaged: Prof. James Padgett, Dora Sidney Wilson, Sig. Arno and wife, May Miles, Three Rainford Bros., Tony Ashton and his dogs, James Hayes and others. The show will use a 70(?)x100ft. top, with 20x?0ft. dressing room tent. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
1892: Wanted, band of 5 to double string. Also performers, no riders. Privileges for sale. Wagon show. Sexton Bros., Ferris and Gillett write. Tony Ashton, London, Ind. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 64.
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Ashton & Ferleman - 1897
Ashton's Olympic Show and the Ferleman Bros.' Shows have combined and will put out a show under the name of Ashton & Ferleman's 10 and 20 Cent Circus, Museum and Trained Animal Show. . . . We will travel by rail through Indiana and Illinois, making two and three day stands. We will carry a band of ten pieces instead of six, as at first intended. Our opening will occur at London, Ind., April 26(?). New York Clipper, April 10, 1897, p. 93.
Note: see Ferleman Bros.
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Astley's Circus - 1892
Ad. Wanted, for Astley's United Shows, circus acts of all kinds, also musicians and contracting agent. Long season South. Join at once, C. B.(?) Astley, Detroit, Mich. New York Clipper, August 27, 1892, p. 402. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
Atkins, Manson & Culbertson Railroad Shows - 1890 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1890
Ad. Wanted, for Atkins, Manson & Culbertson's Consolidated Railroad Shows. Performers in all branches of circus business except riding. Those who play brass(?) preferred. Band of six to double in orchestra. Ten band uniforms in good condition. . . . Will take party who plays brass as property man, also one(?) as porter. Side show, candy stand and other legitimate privileges to let(?). Address Port Jervis, N. Y. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 47.
Ad. Wanted. Atkins, Manson & Culbertson Consolidated Railroad Shows. Few more all around people in circus business (except riding). Good singing and knockabout clown with specialty, concert team who go in leap and tumbling, an agent experienced with railroad shows., boss canvasman, cook for private car. Address Port Jervis, N. Y. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 79.
Ad. Call. The Atkins, Manson & Culbertson R. R. Shows open at Port Jervis, N. Y., April 5(?). More good people wanted in all branches circus business (no riding). Address as above. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 111.
Kingston, New York. Prof. Batcheller, with his trained dogs, joined Atkins' Railroad Show at Port Jervis. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 134.
Ad. Wanted Atkins, Manson & Culbertson's Consolidated R. R. Shows. Boss canvasman. Sideshow to let to party who can join at once(?). . . . New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 159.
Ad. Wanted, complete circus outfit, from canvas to stakes. Performers (no riding), concert people who play brass preferred. Also musicians. . . . Sideshow and other privileges to let on favorable terms. Write or telegraph, Wilkesbarre, Pa. Atkins, Manson & Co. Railroad Show. New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 191.
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Tom Atkinson's Dog, Pony & Monkey Show - 1922
Tom Atkinson's Dog, Pony & Monkey Show performs for orphans. Show will be with J. F. Murphy Shows in 1922. Show closed its Florida tour. With J. F. Murphy shows, opened at Greenville, South Carolina in 1922. J. E. Ogden is manager. Billboard, January 7, 1922, p. 68; February 25, 1922, p. 112; March 4, 1922, p. 68; March 25, 1922, p. 68; April 8, 1922, p. 64.
Atkinson's Dog & Pony Show - 1923
1923: Show doing good business in California. Show cancelled Arizona towns. Show leased land in San Francisco for quarters. Going to Hawaii in January 1924. Billboard, June 2, 1923, p. 72; October 6, 1923, p. 80; October 27, 1923, p. 124; December 29, 1923.
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Atlantic & Pacific Circus - 1872 Show is listed for 1870-71, 1884 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Steamboat Disaster. Steamboat Oceanus, near Cairo, Illinois, April 11. . . . Robert Cheat (sic), one of the proprietors of the Atlantic and Pacific Circus, saved himself by means of a plank. Roman Citizen (Rome, NY), April 19, 1872, n.p.n.
Oceanus diaster . . . Robert Chew, one of the proprietors of the Atlantic and Pacific Circus, saved himself by means of a plank. He thinks George Constable and wife, circus performers from California, Frank Slate and Frank Williams, also circusmen, were drowned. New York Daily Tribune (New York, NY), April 13, 1872, p. 12.
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Atterbury Bros. Circus - 1914, 1916-19, 1920-21, 1923, 1935 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-18, 1921, 1926, 1935-39
1914:
Atterbury Bros.' Show: Atterbury Bros., proprietors; R. L. Atterbury, manager; Wm. Atterbury, assistant manager; Mrs. Rose Atterbury, treasurer, secretary & auditor; Al Roberts, general agent, local contractor, special agent, contracting and advance press agent; W. A. Allen, press agent back with show; Billy Mock, manager sideshow; F. Smith, equestrian director; W. A. Allen, general supt.; Elmer Gilmer, supt. privileges; J. W. Marows, musical director; Miss Leoni Atterbury, supt. reserved seat tickets; Mike Whalen, supt. canvas; Jas. Stetler, boss hostler; Johnny Murphy, supt. commissary dept.; Geo. Kooney, supt. lights; Dave McGarrick, supt. props.; Wm. Jones, supt. ring stock; Jas. Stetler, supt. stock; Mike Whalen, supt. working crew; Bob Lee, 24-hour agent; P. S. Franks, boss carpenter; Joe Dally, checker-up; R. L. Atterbury, legal adjuster; Billy Mock, announcer. Show opens at Evansville, Ind., April __. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
1916-17:
During the winter of 1916-1917, the Atterbury Bros. Circus stayed at the old fairgrounds in Beatrice, Nebraska. At the time the show used farm type wagons, painted blue with red lettering. A feature on the circus in those days was the elephant 'Black Diamond' who was later executed in Texas for attacking a woman. That winter the big animal was featured in a parade for Charles Evans Hughes, who was in town campaigning for the Presidency. Circus Report, Vol. 3, No. 17 (Apr 29), 1974, p. 8.
1918:
Winter quarters. Atterbury Bros.' Circus, R. L. Atterbury, proprietor; Montgall& Nicholson aves., Kansas City, Mo. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 5. The Atterbury Bros.' Wagon Shows will be somewhat larger when they take the road for the 1918 tour. A consignment of monkeys arrived at the winter quarters here last week, and a trainer will soon start to work on them. All the baggage stock and one truck are working this winter, being contracted for until spring. Manager R. L. Atterbury will leave shortly to join his wife and babies, who are visiting in Indiana. Frank A. Robbins, circus owner and manager, was a visitor at the quarters the past week; also Ray Wade, animal trainer of the Lucky Bill Shows. Leona Atterbury celebrated her sixteenth birthday last week. Each day, after school, Leona and her sister, Catherine, are practicing new stunts on the high wire for another act. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 28.
Kansas City, Mo., March 1. The Atterbury Brothers, in winter quarters here, are making plans to open the show during the early part of April. R. L. Atterbury, the manager, recently purchased six head of draft stock, two saddle pones, one menage horse and three Shetland ponies at the Eschman Circus sale. Among recent visitors was F. H. Caldwell. Mr. Caldwell will take out an overland show from Oklahoma, using tractors instead of horses. Billboard, March 9, 1918, p. 30.
The Atterbury Bros.' Show will take the road for its eighth annual tour of the Northwest April 8. The show will consist of fifteen wagons and one truck, fifty head of stock, an elephant, a camel and a number of monkeys, dogs and ponies. W. A. Allen is press agent. Billboard, March 16, 1918, p. 29.
Roster, Atterbury Bros.' Show. Atterbury Bros., proprietors; R. L. Atterbury, manager, auditor and legal adjuster; A. M. Cauble, asst. manager, general agent, advance press agent, manager wagon No. 1; Mrs. R. L. Atterbury, treasurer; Leona Atterbury, secretary; W. A. Atterbury, local contractor, special agent, contracting press agent, press agent back with show, 24-hour agent, manager wagon No. 2; Rube Perkins, equestrian director; Wm. Allen, general supt.; Harry L. Steele, supt. privileges; Dad Sacel(?), musical dir.; F. S. Hanson, supt. reserved seat tickets; Whitey Matson, supt. canvas; James Heeney, trainmaster; Jesse Sells, boss hostler; Rose Atterbury, supt. commissary dept.; Shanty Thomas, supt. lights; Matt Matson, supt. props, supt. working crew; Ed Roberts, supt. ring stock; Tex Waldron, supt. animals; H. Reed, boss carpenter, blacksmith; Rube Perkins, announcer. Fifteen wagons and one truck. Show opens at Kansas City, Mo., April 1. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 64.
The Atterbury Bros.' Show lost two stands in Kansas week before last on account of snow storms. Outside of that business has been fair. Bert Misner has been getting big concerts since the opening. Rube Perkins is equestrian director. The show is now in Nebraska. Billboard, May 18, 1918, p. 29.
The Atterbury Bros.' Wagon Show was at Vienna, S.D. July 6, doing good business. Tom Powell is doing well with the privileges. Bert Misner is getting the biggest concerts we have ever had. "Rube" Perkins puts on the ring performance. Ben Sweet has charge of the canvas. W. A. Allen looks after the newspapers with many excellent press notices. George Smith has the ring stock and the baggage stock. The show will not close and will go South for the winter season. - W. A. Billboard, July 20, 1918, p. 24.
Kansas City, Mo., Oct. 24. Atterbury Bros. Circus closed a successful season this week and is located in winter quarters this city. Bert Misner and family, in charge of the concert this season, will winter in Kansas City. "Rube" Perkins, wire performer, will go to Horton, Kan. Don Carlo, clown, goes to Concordia, Kan.; Jack McCaule to St. Paul, Minn., and Billy Atterbury to Joplin, Mo. W. A. Allen will remain in Kansas City, as will all the rest of the members during the winter. Billboard, November 2, 1918, p. 26.
Atterbury Bros. Circus is in winter quarters at Kansas City, Mo. We also have ample room for the accommodation of a part of the Con T. Kennedy Shows, and they stored a number of their wagons with us for the winter. - W. A. Allen. Billboard, November 9, 1918, p. 26.
Atterbury Bros. will put out 2 wagon shows next year instead of one, and are expecting a good season. W. A. Allen, agent, Kansas City, Missouri. [Advertisement] Billboard, December 7, 1918, p. 2.
1919:
William Reno and George Hallman are to have the No. 2 sideshow and candy stands with the Atterbury Bros. Show the coming season. Reno will have charge of a pit show, while Hallman will have the candy stands. Billboard, February 15, 1919, p. 61.
Business in Minnesota has been good for the Atterbury Bros. Shows. The show has been out over four months. The Bonhommie Troupe of acrobats joined at Verdi, Minn., and the Aerial Eckhoffs came on the following day. Prof. Charls Brown has closed to return home to look after his wheat crop in Kansas. Al Atterbury is visiting the show for a few days. Billboard, August 9, 1919, p. 46.
The Atterbury Bros. Wagon Show will soon conclude its annual tour of the Dakotas and Minnesota and head for cotton country. The show will not winter in Kansas City, Mo., as it has been its custom, but will make a long season South. Clown alley now has five clowns, headed by Young Bonhommie, assisted by Eckhoff, Whiteside, King and Rainey. Avery King has charge of the reserved seat and concert tickets. William Allen has a big line of advertising banners each day, hung on the quarter poles in the big top. Captain Reed is the elephant trainer. Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 44.
Atterbury Bros. Wagon Show continues good business in Minnesota. Col. Vic Cody, oldtime expert rifle shot and trouper, joined at Heron Lake, Minn., after being out of the game for a number of years. Mrs. Cody is with him. William Atterbury continues to hand all the quarter poles with advertising banners each day, and the banner on the elephant is sold every day. Sig Bonhomie, principal clown, is putting on the concert. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 46.
W. A. Atterbury ("Billy"), of Attebury Bros. Overland Shows, and Mrs. Ida Mae Pyle, a non-professional, were married at the home of the bride in Joplin, Mo., October 20. Billboard, November 8, 1919, p. 42.
The Atterbury Bros. Wild Animal Circus has concluded its 1919 season at West Grove, Ia. Manager R. L. Atterbury has secured winter quarters in Lancaster, Mo., from Col. Wm. P. Hall. Thirty head of baggage stock have been turned loose in pastures, while the ring stock and the elephant are in warm buildings. The Atterbury show started its tour at Kansas City early in April, and traveled through Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. The season was thirty weeks. The Whitesides (Tom and Effie) have gone to Wichita, Kan; the Aerial Eckhoffs to Springfield, Ill.; Avery King to Chillicothe, Mo.; William Atterury and Blackie Morgan to Joplin, Mo.; Leons and Katherine Atterbury to Evansville, Ind., to visit relatives, after which they will return to Lancaster and practice new acts. The rest of the folks went to Kansas City. Billboard, November 15, 1919, p. 58.
More on the 1919 Atterbury show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
1920:
Atterbury Bros.' Trained Animal Shows: R. L. Atterbury, proprietor and manager; Rose Atterbury, treasurer, secretary and auditor; W. A. Allen, general agent, press agent and manager advance car No. 1; A. D. Atterbury, local contractor, manager advance car No. 2, and checker-up; Wess Longren, special agent; W. F.(?) Unsell, manager side show and announcer; George Parents, equestrian director; Wm. Atterbury, general supt. and supt. stock; Tom W. Powell, supt. privileges, supt. reserved seat tickets and supt. commissary dept.; Okay King, supt. canvas and supt. working crew; Robert (Calamity) Moore, boss hostler; Ed Clancy, supt. lights; Shorty Evans, supt. props; Mike Loftus, supt. ring stock; Elmer Emory, 24-hour agent; George Smith, supt. elephants; Ben Reed, supt. animals; Geo. Kelly, blacksmith; F. Stocker, legal adjuster; 10 wagons and 2 trucks. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
1921:
Robert L. Atterbury was owner and manager of this wagon show, his brother Bill was the bannerman. Robert had a pony and monkey act and his wife, Rose, did a dog act. Tom Powell had the cookhouse and reserved seats and Ben Reed was the elephant man. Performers were Van Jerome, contortion; Kitty Atterbury, horizontal rings, Karl Cartwright, magic; Shorty Lorch, clown (and canvas boss); Dell Simmons, clown, juggler. The wagons were delivery and farm wagons. There was no sideshow or concert. Circus Report, August 6, 1973, p. 3.
1923:
An advertisement stated that the Atterbury Bros. Big Wagon Shows had pony, dog, animal and vaudeville acts, an elephant Diamond, Cupid the educated pony that could add, subtract, multiply, spell words, pick out colors, tell the time of day by any watch, and trained fox terrior dogs. Wire walkers, trapeze performers, clowns. To show at Boyden, April. 30, 1923. Boyden Reporter (Boyden, IA), April 26, 1923.
1935:
Atterbury Bros. 3 Ring Wild Animal Circus had an air calliope and ad menagerie. No concessions. Said to be one of the newest shows on the road. They gave a three hour performance, preceded by a half hour concert accompanied by a big air calliope. Emmetsburg Democrat (Emmetsburg, IA), May 9, 1935, p. 1.
"Atterbury Bros. Wild Animal Circus. Here is the latest equestrian novelty, an original idea by G. Bert Miller, one of America's greatest living trainers of 'Liberty' horses. For years Mr. Miller has contemplated the production of something entirely new in the equestrian line, but until now was never successful in assembling the type of horses he had in mind. The group of handsome animals is the outcome of years of diligent search in all parts of America. They are a treat to the eye, indeed, and 10 of the most spirited and finest performers ever to be trained for a public exhibition. Mr. Miller features the famous 'Ta-Ra-Ra-Boom-De-Ay' number in all performances, a novelty that is bound to create no end of amusement for the most critical audience. Other features are: 'The Ring Curb Parade,' 'Waltzing Horses,' 'Drill Horses,' 'Saddle Horses' and 'Menage Horses.' Ten years ago, a young man who had been in professional circuses started out at an independent showman with an animal act. Mr. Miller picked up a collection of dogs, ponies and a mule. Calling on his skill as a trainer, he put these animals in the act which proved to be so popular that he took it over most of the United States. Miller is known as one of the most adept horse trainers in the circus world. He started out with the circus for his father while still in his teens as a working boy. His ability to handle animals was noted and he became an assistant and understudy for some of the trainers. Finally he acquired a long whip and a silk hat and presented his own acts. For several years he has been employed in a managerial capacity. Evening Tribune (Albert Lea, MN), May 21, 1935.
Robert Lee Atterbury died in Sioux City, Iowa, February 15, 1941, age 75. He was born in Paris, Missouri, February 10, 1866. Owner of the Atterbury Bros. Circus, his son R. Atterbury had operated the show for the past several years. White Tops, February-March, 1941, Vol. 14, Nos. 4-5, p. 4.
Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Austin Bros. Show - 1887, 1945 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1887, 1945
1887: Major G. W. Morris advertized for people in all branches of the business. New York Clipper, July 16, 1887, pp. 278, 283.
Article on the Austin Bros. 1945 show, including route, is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1962 (scroll down or use find).
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Austin's Dog Show & Parlor Circus - 1885-86
1885: Good business at Seneca Falls, New York. New York Clipper, November 7, 1885, p. 534. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Australian Circus - 1870
The Australian Circus - The Treasurer Absconds with all the Funds of the Show - Arrest of the Managers and Actors, and Seizure of the Equipment by the Sheriff.
Aymar's South American Circus - 1874-75 Show is listed for 1875 in both Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and Sturtevant's List of Circuses
1874: The North American Circus, under the direction of W. B. Aymar, was performing in the City of Mexico. Mlle. Carlotta, "Queen of the Air," the Orrin Family and a Japanese Troupe were of the features. New York Clipper, May 23, 1874, p. 63.
1875:
Aymar's Circus was to have left Vera Cruz, Mexico, on March 25 for Havana, Cuba. New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, p. 23. Walter Aymar.
Aymar's South American Circus company, lately returned from South America and Mexico, commenced a short season at Bidwell's Academy of Music, New Orleans, La. The list of the company: Walter B. Aymar, manager and proprietor; Wm. T. Aymer, equestrian manager; Harry Wambold, treasurer; Geo. Costello, general agent; Messrs. Scott, Hines and Black, programme agents and billposters; Prof. Wilcox, leader of band; clowns, Wm. T. and Frederick Aymar; gymnasts, Harry Wambold, Albert and Ed. Aymar, Senors Rodriguez and Aldabo; leapers and tumblers, Wambold, Rodriguez, Aldabo, Fred, Edward, Albert, William and Walter Aymar; riders, Walter B. Aymar, bareback (his first appearance in America in sixteen years); Senor Rodriguez, juggling on horseback; Senorita Bella, principal female rider; Master Albert Aymar, two and four horse rider; and the riding dog Remerber(?); entree riders, Mrs. Walter B. Aymar, Mrs. T. Wm. Aymar, Miss Hattie Kelsey and Mrs. Harry Wambold; specialists, H. Wambold, aerial bars; Frederick and Edward Amyar and Senor Aldabo; Bella and Willie, leap for live; trick horses, Wamachuea(?) and Nap; trick ponies, Jack, Till and Scotty; one 100 foot round top tent; men employes 36(?), horses 23; wagons, 8; proprietor of all privileges, Walter B. Aymar. Will travel by railroad. New York Clipper, May 29, 1875, p. 71.
Howell & Aymar's Circus opened in Memphis, Tenn., but did not meet with much attendance, although a good performance was given. They then went to Cairo, Ill., thence to the interior towns of Illinois. . . . New York Clipper, July 10, 1875, p. 118.
Aymar's Circus is "stuck" in Vincennes, Ind., where it will have to remain until the water around that city subsides. Up to Aug. 7 no trains had left there for some days, and our informant thinks that the show will be detained a week or more. New York Clipper, August 14, 1875, p. 157.
Many of the attaches and company of Aymar's Circus are in Vincennes, Ind., awaiting the result of suits against several of the stockholders who assumed the responsibility of the management when the show last started out from that town. New York Clipper, November 20, 1875, p. 271.
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Ayres & Kathryn Davies Circus - 1947, 1949 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1947-1950
1947-48: The Ayres & Kathryn Davies show opened May 20, 1948. With the show were Paul and Edna Zallee; Roy Adkisson; Walter Raudenbush, boss canvasman; Tama Frank who had the concert, and Betty Tilton. The show had completed its indoor season of 15 weeks, covering four States and giving 156 performances in 78 towns. The indoor show moved on 12 trucks and trailers. Ayres Daves booked the show, with Kathryn Davis as treasurer. Edna Earl had the concessions. In the program were Ollie Heerdink & Tilton bar act, Tama Frank and Patsy, Christy's lions, Paul Zallee and Shorty Adkisson. White Tops, March-April, 1948, Vol. 21, Nos. 3-4, p. 11.
1949: The show opened at Dixon, Illinois on April 20 and 21, 1949. Show traveled on about 15 trucks and trailers, playing almost all its dates under auspices. The big top was a 70 with one 30, seating a little over 1,000. Harry Rawls Jr. had the sideshow, who had a whip cracker, Punch and Judy, a cage of monkeys and Captain Eugene Christy's lecture on and exhibit of lions. Christy was also featured in the big show with his lion act. Harry Rawls was equestrian director and Corky Frazer headed the clowns. Performers were Johnny Pringle's dogs and his "pickout" mule; Miss Betty Tilton, swinging ladder, rolling globe, single trapeze; John Frazer, tight wire; Montgomery's military ponies presented by Johnny Pringle; Jack Frazer, table balancing; Harry Rawls, trick and fancy rope spinning. White Tops, May-June, 1949, Vol. 22, Nos. 5-6, p. 10.
• An article on the Ayres & Kathryn Davies show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 6, pp. 18-24.
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B. B. & H. Circus This show is listed for 1900 in both Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and Sturtevant's List of Circuses
B. B. & H. Circus opened the season well at Antigo, Wis., May 12. Billboard, May 19, 1900, p. 5.
Antigo, like most of Wisconsin, has a history of circus involvement. Before this photo of an unknown circus parade, three men with no experience decided to enter the business. Fred Burns of Wausau had a trick horse. John Hanus and Fred Boldt of Antigo became his partners to form the B B & H Circus. It consisted of a 35 member troop and 16 piece band. It opened at the Fairgrounds on May 17, 1899 then, in its 13 wagon caravan, on to Matoon and Aniwa. It traveled to parts of Wisconsin, Minnesota and the Michigan U.P. but eventually failed. Burns and Hanus continued with other circuses with greater success. Hanus went on to manage the Opera House in 1905 and then the Home Theater. Langlade County Historical Society Newsletter, Summer 2007 (Antigo, WI), p. 1.
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Backe's New Model Shows - 1913-15 This show is listed for 1913-15 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
1913:
Backe's New Model shows, one of the old time circuses, passed through this city on Sunday morning overland, being hauled by a half dozen wagons of various kinds. This aggregation will exhibit at Salona for a week, according to reports from that place. Lock Haven Express (Lock Haven, PA), August 4, 1913, p. 4.
Salona, Aug. 12. — Backe's New Model show, which has been furnishing nightly entertainments to a good many people during the past week, pulled stakes and departed for Loganton Sunday morning. All who attended seemed well pleased with the show and barring a couple of incidents everything went along smoothly. On Friday night in the midst of a performance a section of seats gave way and a score or more of people were precipitated to the ground. It is supposed that too many stout people on the upper seats caused the breakdown. Lock Haven Express (Lock Haven, PA), August 12, 1913, p. 2.
1914:
Winter quarters. Backe's New Model Shows, Andrew G. Backe, mgr.; Morris, Pa. Billboard, December 27, 1913, p. 57.
Andrew G. Backe has decided to change the name of his shows to Backe's New Fashion Shows. Billboard, February 28, 1914, p. 31.
Wanted for A. G. Backe's Wagon Shows, good team, man and wife, doing three acts, or good single. Your money is sure her. Good treatment. Address Utahville, Pa. [Advertisement] Billboard, August 29, 1914, p. 66.
1915:
The A. G. Backe Shows will take the road the latter part of May, opening at Morris, Pa. A. G. Backe, owner, is in Pittsburg at the present time, buying draft stock. Jewett, the trained pony, is in vaudeville until Easter. The outfit will be carried on eight wagons the coming season instead of ten as last year. Harry Anbel, advance agent; Harry Fox, musical director; Backe's trained pony, dogs, goats, sheep and pigeons; Mrs. Backe, singing clown and swinging ladder; A. Emmick, acrobatic clown, and the Aerial Katells. Billboard, March 20, 1915, p. 23.
Winter quarters. A. G. Backe's Wagon Shows, A. G. Backe, mgr., Morris, Pa. Billboard, December 11, 1915, p. 41.
1916: Troupe of trained pigeons, do a good act; the clown is a laugh all through act; all props and cages like new. $30.00(?); A. G. Backe, Morris, Pennsylvania. Want good cook for small wagon show; prefer man and wife; also band men. A. G. Backe, Morris, Pa. [Advertisements] Billboard, May 27, 1916, p. 43.
1916: Second-hand show property for sale [Billboard column] A living wagon - swell for wagon show, A. G. Backe, Morris, Pa. Horse tent - 30x30, with poles and stakes, and one manger, Baker & Lockwood make; will sell for $50.00. A. G. Bake, Morris, Pa. Two iron pipe center poles, just the thing for small car show. [Advertisement] Billboard, June 17, 1916, p. 41.
1919: Winter quarters, A. G. Backe's Circus, A. G. Backe, manager, Morris, Pa. Billboard, February 22, 1919, p. 59.
1920: Trained goat, with props. Does a dozen tricks. Price $75.00. A. G. Backe, Morris, Pennsylvania. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 1, 1920, p. 45.
1920: For sale - 100 hickory and iron-wood stakes, 4 feet long, 25c each; 2 turned hickory trapeze bars, with ropes and hooks, $5.00; 2 leather covered rings, with ropes, $5.00; set of camp dishes for ten people $10.00; 2 red and white curtains, $10.00; 7 red band coats, trimmed with gold braid, clean as new, $15.00; trunk of magic, $25.00; Milburn carbide light, ___; 4 Punch and Judy figures, $5.00; lot of small circus lithographs, $5.00. A. G. Backe, Morris, Pa. [Advertisement] Billboard, July 10, 1920, p. 47.
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Backman's Animal Show - 1911-12, 1918 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-1918
1911: Backman's Animal Show plays Memphis, Tenn., as a special feature of the Spring Jubilee, week of April 3. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
1912: Backman's Animal Show, after spending last winter at Lewiston, Idaho, opened in April, furnishing the wild animal show with the Parker Shows No. 1. The show traveled East thru Canada as far as Ft. William, Ont., and then worked West to Vanouver, B.C., and again East thru the States to Leavenworth, Kan. The season has been the most profitable in the history of the show. The show is now comfortably housed for the winter. Suitable training quarters have been procured in the old street car barns. The quarters are the best the show has ever had. Among the trainers who will remain at the winterquarters breaking new animal acts are Captain Curley Wilson, who is in charge, and Johnny Miller and Harry Brooks, each having one assistant. They have four new acts to break. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
1918: Winter quarters, 1918. Backman's Animal Shows. John T. Backman, manager; San Antonio, Tex. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 125.
1918: For sale, Backman's Trained Wild Animal Circus, now playing State fairs with leading carnival compnay. Want to retire. Address John T. Backman, Wortham Shows. Will consider leasing. [Advertisement] Billboard, July 20, 1918, p. 59.
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Backman & Tinsch - 1919, 1920 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1919-21
1919
San Antonio, Tex., Jan. 25. There is much activity at the winter quarters of the Backman-Tinsch Trained Animal Circus, where painters are busy under the direction of Joe Conley. George Donovan is directing the workmen at the quarters. Tim Buckley is in charge of the domestic animal training and Captain Denison is looking after the wild animal acts. John Bunton(?), superintendent of lights, arrived at quarters. Ralph McComb is expected daily. Billboard, February 1, 1919, p. 28.
Backman & Tinsch Trained Wild Animal Circus. Tim Buckley, trainer, declares the new dog, monkey and pony act is the best ever trained by him. The latest arrival is a span of coal black horses, to be used in hauling and loading the show. - Geo. R. Donovan. Billboard, February 15, 1919, p. 30.
The Backman-Tinsch Big Trained Animal Shows have been enjoying good business, especially through New Mexico. The show entered Colorado May 30. Roster: John T. Backman, general manager; George Donovan, business manager; W. Z. Smith, 24-hour agent; Tim Buckley, equestrian director; John Bustan, manager sideshow; A. L. Tinsch, secretary-treasurer; Joseph J. Conley, general agent; Roy Lundington, auditor; Ralph McComb, boss hostler; H. R. Jersey, supt. transportation; John Bennett, trainmaster; Doc Johnson, manager oriental department; Merle Gratiot, privileges; Blackie Webb, boss canvasman; Roy Parento, producing clown; Charles Dennison, supt. animals and principal trainer. Billboard, June 14, 1919, p. 82.
Mme. Golda (Mrs. John T. Backman), left the Backman-Tinsch Shows at Pratt, Kan., for Chicago to consult a specialist. She is also visiting her brother there. Billboard, August 9, 1919, p. 45.
Credit is due Jos. J. Conly, of the Backman-Tinsch Circus, now in Texas, for arranging the move into Rio Grande, where the show was to appear November 1. There is no railroad into Rio Grande, but Mr. Conly arranged for some fifteen or twenty army trucks to meet the show train at a convenient point to carry the paraphernalia overland to make the stand, returning the following day. The show will close at Pleasanton, Tex., November 8. Billboard, November 8, 1919, pp. 61, 62.
More on the 1919 Backman-Tinsch show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
An article on the Backman-Tinsch show, ca 1919 with information on Backman's career, is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1956 (scroll down).
1920
Backman-Tinsch Trained Wild Animal Circus: John T. Backman and A. L. Tinsch, proprietors; John T. Backman, manager; Geo. F. Donovan, assistant manager and legal adjuster; A. L. Tinsch, secretary and treasurer; Roy Ludington, auditor; Joe J. Conley, general agent; Mike Bude, special agent; Will Z. Smith, press agent back with show and supt. commissary dept.; John Bunton, manager side show; Jim Morrow, equestrian director and announcer; Dave Trodegett, supt. privileges; Walker Morris, musical director; Curtis McClintie, supt. reserved seat tickets; C. R. Black, supt. canvas; Ralph McComb, boss hostler; Nolan Olive, supt. lights; Willie Grey, supt. ring stock; F. E. Buxton, supt. working crew; Roy House, supt. animals; two-car show. Opened at San Antonio, Tex., March 1. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
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Baddeley Bros. Circus - 1939
Show is listed for 1899 in both Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and Sturtevant's List of Circuses
Baddeley Bros. 3 Ring Wild Animal Circus, Lethbridge, May 30 & 31, 3:30 and 8:30 p.m. Admission 50c, children 25c. [Advertisement] Lethbridge Herald (Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada), May 23, 1939, p. 2.
Baddeley Bros. Circus pitched their tents in the city this Tuesday morning for a two day stay during which they will put on two performances daily. Several wild animals are carried with the circus, which holds claim to being the first registered all-Canadian circus. An outstanding monkey show is also carried. Athletic displays and aerial acts are also featured on the program. A member of the cast is John Matte of Vancouver, Dominion champion bar performer. Manager "Bill" Baddeley of the circus recalled a previous visit to the city Tuesday morning for the Herald. Back in 1909 he visited Lethbridge with a merry-go-round operated by a steam engine and claimed that two days' work were necessary to level off the site before the ride would operate properly. The pioneer Canadian showman told of circus travel in the early days of the west when all equipment was moved by large wagons and long strings of horses as far north as the N.W.T. He also remembered putting on a show at Fort Macleod in the old days. Lethbridge Herald (Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada), May 30, 1939, p. 6.
Coming with a trainload of wild animals, acrobats, contortionists, wire walkers, trapeze performers, jugglers, gymnasts, clowns, band, etc. Baddeley Bros. Big 3 Ring Wild Animal Circus will exhibit at Roblin on July 13th. Many American and European circus acts will be presented under the huge big top which has a seating capacity of some two thousand, with the headline acts from the Barnum and Bailey, Ringling Bros. and the Al G. Barnes big circuses. It's a cavalcade of thrills, see the head slide for life and the man on the flying trapeze. Roblin Review (Roblin, Manitoba, Canada), July 6, 1939, p. 1.
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Bailey's Big 10 & 20 Cent - 1902
The Goshen Democrat says Ralph Bailey, the well known bandmaster, has announced the formation of a 10 and 20 cent circus to open at Marion, with C. G. Conn, of Elkhart, as financial backer. Elkhart Review (Elkhart, IN), January 24, 1902, n.p.n.
Notes from Bailey's Big 10 and 20 Cent Circus. Ralph Bailey, proprietor and manager. Everything is progressing nicely at the headquarters and all will be in readiness to open about May 1, at Marion, Ind. The show will be one of the neatest, best and largest of all small shows. We will have fifteen performers and a troupe of dogs and monkeys, with a fine band of twenty-four musicians, which will give daily concerts. We have a 90ft. top, two 40ft. m. p., and travel in our own special cars. New York Clipper, February 22, 1902, p. 1136.
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Bailey's London Circus - 1891
Curtis L. Bailey, formerly of the firm of Bailey & Winans, will put out a show of his own on the road this spring, to be known as Bailey's Great London Circus. He will open the season at Newton Falls, O., May 2(?). Everything about the show will be new and attractive. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
Note: see Bailey & Winans, below. See Cleveland Consolidated (Ewing).
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Bailey Bros. - 1947 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1917-1920, 1935-38, 1944-48, 1951, 1953, 1959-60, 1964-68
• An article on the 1935-36 Bailey Bros. shows is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 2, pp. 19-26.
The 1947 Bailey Bros., managed by Bob Stevens, moved on 38 units. Feature attractions were MacDonald's elephants; the Henderson family, juggling, balance; aerialists Jimmy Troy and wife; the Great Ernesto; Manuel Barranger; Bob Stanley, slack wire; Gladys Gillem's lions; the Cardenas brothers, Mexican balancing stars; Francisco Rolon, contortion; and John Pringle's trained animals. The show had five lions, two black bears, a llama, six horses, five ponies and four elephants. The big top was a 100 with three 40s. Menagerie and sideshow tops, 70s with two 40s. All main tops were green. In addition to the big top band sleeper, the show had a sideshow band sleeper, and several sleepers for the big top crew and working men. Ellis Goe, "Skinny," directed their eight piece band. Fred Meek, a former dance orchestra pianist, played the callliope. Staff: Bob Stevens and Guy T. Whitner, owners; C. C. Smith, secretary-treasurer; George Myers, equestrian director and announcer; John Wall, superintendent; Don McCullough, contracting press agent; Ellis Goe, bandmaster; Harry Swank, front door supt.; Harry Miller, supt. tickets; F. P. Sadowski, master of transportation; Holley Howard, chief electrician; Nick Bengor, boss props; Mac McDonald, supt. elephants; Howard Stratiff, supt. ring stock; Willie Lundy, boss canvasman; Slim Griffin, 24-hour man; Cy Murray, steward; and Frank Ellis, supt. concessions. White Tops, July-August, 1947, Vol. 20, Nos. 7-8, p. 9.
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Bailey Bros. & Christiani - 1955 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1954-55
An article on the 1955 show is in Bandwagon, June, 1955, pp. 3-4.
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George F. Bailey & Co. - 1869, 1870, 1874-75 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1855-1874
1869: G. F. Bailey & Co.'s Gigantic Caravan, Menagerie and Equestrian Combination was in Kansas in June, 1869. The show advertised a drove of Dromedaries and a team of elephants, drawing a band wagon containing Wither's Washington Cornet Band. They had both a rhinoceros and hippopotamus. R. S. Dingess was contracting agent. Bandwagon, May-June, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 3, pp. 17.
1870: C. F. Bailey & Co.'s Famous Menagerie [probably G. F. Bailey]. 240 men and horses. 22nd annual tour, after an absence of four years. Monster Rhinoceros. Fifty Living Lions. Herds of Dromedaries. Four Little Baby Lions. Two Performing Elephants. Sig. Sebastian's Italian Circus. "Menagerie Levees" held one hour before the Circus commences, ample time allowed to inspect the Wild Animals and Beautiful Birds before the Circus entertainment commences. Wither's Army Band in military uniform, discoursing the popular airs and melodies of America, Ireland and England. Evening Gazette (Port Jervis, NY), August 27, 1870.
1873:
Claude De Haven, press agent and director of publications with George F. Bailey's British Museum, South American Menagerie and James Melville's Australian Circus and Roman Hippodrome. New York Clipper, March 15, 1873, p. 395.
George F. Bailey & Co.'s "British Museum, South American Menagerie, and James Melville's Australian Circus and Roman Hippodrome" will inaugurate a season in this city before starting on their regular traveling tour. James Melville and his family will be the principal equestrians; George M., Clara and Ed DeHaven, clowns; Frank J. Howes, equestian director; Claude DeHaven, director of publications. New York Clipper, March 22, 1873, p. 407.
Bailey & Co.'s Menagerie, Museum and James Melville's Australian Circus organized at Danbury, Conn., and commenced a season in New York City on April 7. They use three new tents, one for the circus, one for the museum and one for the menagerie. Parade is headed by golden tableau cars, and the Golden Cornet Band is dressed in French military uniforms. Sixteen horses are used in the entry. Riders, James Melville, Frank Melville, George Donald, Master Alexander, Mlle de Coral, Mme. Louise. Clowns, Edward de Haven, Orrin Brothers, Spanish grotesques . . . Gymnasts, Fred Russells, Jospeh Sandford, M. Curry. Tumblers, Frank Robinson, the Orrin Brothers, Richard Wentworth, Ed de Haven . . . Proprietors of sideshow, Fulton & Ridgeway, of concert, Bailey & Co. Propritors, George F. Bailey & Co.; manager, John J. Justice; treasurers, Geo. r. Haviland and Thomas Kelly; contracting agent, Fred Couldock; press agent, Claude de Haven; master of canvas, E. D. Emerson . . . New York Clipper, April 19, 1873, Supplement, n.p.n.
1874:
George F. Bailey's Circus and Menagerie exhibited at Camden, N.J., to fair business. A correspondent writes: "It is called 'The Old Hippodrome Show,' and the 'Old Hippo' is exhibited in a cage. The ring performances were excellent, notably the horsemanship by Signor Sebastian and Miss Watson. The show remains in New Jersey three weeks, and will probably 'cut' the season and run into Winter quarters at Danbury soon. Business is reported very light." New York Clipper, August 22, 1874, p. 167.
Bailey & Co.'s New York Circus, which left this city some weeks ago for South America, gave performances at Panama, Nov. 12, 13, 14. The company includes Signor Sebastian, bareback rider; the Carlo Family, eight in number; Mlle. Sanyeah, gymnast; Senorita Watson, rider; Sadi D'Jalma, contortionist; Senorita Loyal, rider; the Feeley Brothers, trapezists, postureres and clowns; Adolphe Barbo, somersault rider; John Conklin, cannon ball performer; . . . They sailed for Peru, S. A., Nov. 15. New York Clipper, December 5, 1874, p. 287.
1875:
George Bailey's Circus, as we are informed by a letter from Sig. Sebastian, dated Lima, Dec. 4, arrived at Callas, Peru, Nov. 26(?), after a voyage of nine days from Panama, and gave their first performance on the 28th, in Courtnay & Sanford's Circus building. The company embraces Sig. Sebastian, Sig. Bernabo, Sig. Watson, . . . Mrs. Jeannette Watson, Mrs. Sanyeah, the Carlo Family (seven in number), Tom Conkling, the Feeley Brothers (three in number), Mr. Waterman, equestrian director . . . They did not expect to remain there very long, because of the revolution. New York Clipper, January 9, 1875, p. 327.
G. F. Bailey's New York Circus closed a successful season of four weeks in Lima, Peru, Dec. 27, 1874. They performed at Callao four nights, commencing 30th, and sailed by steam for Valparaiso, Chili. New York Clipper, January 30, 1875, p. 351.
Prince D'Jalma, the Carlos Family, Jimmy Reynolds, Adolph Barnabo, and the entire company with George F. Bailey sent to South America last year, returned to New York with Lewis June and G. F. Bailey. Mr. Bailey will immediately organize for the road and start out at an early day. They will probably open in New York for a short season previous to going on the road. New York Clipper, April 24, 1875, p. 31.
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Mollie Bailey's Circus - 1892, 1900-01, 1911-12, 1918-19 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1896-1924
1892: From Mollie Bailey's Show. We are at Fort Worth, Tex., for the next ten days, after which we take the road again. We have only two more stands to make before reaching our permanent headquarters . . . We have twelve wagons, two being with the advance brigade. . . . The roster: Mrs. Mollie A. Bailey, sole owner; D. E. Ward, general manager; J. C. Rich, advance, and the Bailey(?) Family. We give a two and a half hour show . . . We will begin our winter season about Sept. 1. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
1900: Mollie Bailey's Show is a familiar and welcome visitor to all the towns in this and Western Texas, says a Texas newspaper . . . and the lively music of the band as it heads the street parade, with Miss Birdie sitting on her pony so nicely in her exquisitely fitting equestrian habit, leading and drawing all eyes to her as she passes along the street. The street parade was good yeaterday afternoon, and the performance of the trick ponies wa a heretofore pronounced good. This show has been getting better every year for several years, and now it is one of the best in the country. Costumes, tents and everything new and in good taste and a decided upward move is noticed in everything. The performances in the different parts of the show last night was well up in every feature. Especially was the trapeze performance by Eugene and Albertine Bailey most excellently rendered. The contortion performance by Brad Bailey was good and well worth seeing. Mis Birdie's singing was delightful to listen to, and her performance with her trained canary birds was very fine indeed, and shows there is an affinity between bird song and the human voice. . . . The minstrel part of the show was all that could be desired. Billboard, June 23, 1900, p. 5.
1901: Eugene Bailey, manager of Mollie Bailey & Sons Circus, reports they have 22 wagons, 100 horses, 50 people and a brass band. Their route will be through Texas. National Police Gazette, April 13, 1901, p. 2.
1911: An unusual occurrence took place with the Mollie Bailey Show Saturday, November 11. The performance had just started, when a storm necessitated the lowering of the tents. An audience of 2,000 people was dismissed, but an announcement was made that a performance would be given on Monday morning at 9 o'clock. The band played on the streets at 8 a.m., and the show commenced promptly at 9. At 11:30 train was caught for the afternoon and night show at Bremond. Billboard, November 25, 1911, p. 27.
1912: Joe West is at liberty, after 89 weeks with the Mollie Bailey R. R. Shows. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
1918:
Houston, Tex., Feb. 8. The Mollie Bailey Show takes to the road February 25, again under the management of the Bailey Brothers. Willie K. Bailey will take charge of the advance for the coming tour, while Walker Marris will have the bands instead of W. K. Bailey. There will be ten pieces in the band. In addition to touring Texas, the show will invade Arkansas and Missouri. Billboard, February 16, 1918, p. 30.
According to recent reports the Molly Bailey Show has closed its season at some point in Texas. Railroad conditions are said to be the cause of the closing. Billboard, August 17, 1918, p. 27.
Houston, Tex., Oct. 3. Mollie Bailey, one of the owners of the Mollie Bailey Show Company, died here yesterday afternoon. "Aunt Mollie," as she was known was 82 years old and her career as a show woman extended over a period of 66 years. She was the mother of the Bailey Bros., who are active in the management of the Mollie Bailey Show. In private life she was Mrs. A. H. Haradesty. During the Civil War she was a nurse in theConfederate Army. Billboard, October 12, 1918, p. 52.
1919:
Houston, Tex., March 1. The Mollie Bailey Show will pull out of winter quarters here March 9 and give its initial performance the following day. New canvas has been received, a 70 with two 30s, 30-ft. round top 70x80, eight sleeping cars and a 25x50 cookhouse. The outfit will open with ten trucks and trailers with the show and two ahead. Billboard, March 8, 1919, p. 68.
Wilber La Zella has returned from overseas with his wife and is finishing the season with the Mollie Bailey Shows. The team is known as the Two La Zellas. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 45.
Henry G. Grimes, of the Mollie Bailey Show for the past seven years, will not be with that show next season, but will go to South America with Shipp & Feltus. Billboard, December 20, 1919, p. 86.
More on the 1919 Mollie Bailey show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
Also see Olga Bailey's book, Mollie Bailey: Circus Queen of the Southwest.
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Bailey & Winans' - 1890
1889: Season 1890. The Bailey & Winans' Combined Shows, Circus Hippodrome and Wild West, will be the biggest wagon show on the road next season. We want . . . circus performers in all branches, ladies having new aerial acts, cowboys (long hair), concert people. . . . Would like to hear from the Irwins . . . For sale, side show privileges. Wilbert D. Winans, business manager. . . . Al. Dolson, general agent . . . Charles Ward ("Curley"), boss canvassman. Address and winter quarters, Newton Falls, Ohio. New York Clipper, December 21, 1889, p. 686.
1890: Wm. Irwin, late of the Irwin Bros. Circus, and Mme. Irwin have signed with the Bailey & Winans Circus for the season of 1890. Mr. Irwin will bring out a new act next season that will overshadow his head balancing aerial trapeze act, and will probably astonish old timers and create a sensation. New York Clipper, Jan 11, 1890, p. 732.
Note: see Bailey's London, above.
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Baird, Howell & Co.'s - 1874
Charles Whitney, late general director of O'Brien's Six Shows, has so far recovered from his misfortune, the loss of his leg, as to take the road again, which he will do this season with a show called "Whitney & Co.'s Centennial Circus, Museum and Menagerie." New York Clipper, February 21, 1874, p. 375.
Charley Whitney has abandonded the idea of taking out the Great Centennial Circus, but will manage the advance of Baird, Howell & Co.'s Oriental Circus, Museum and Menagerie, which will start from Salem, O. New York Clipper, April 4, 1874, p. 7.
Baird, Howell & Co., Oriental Caravan, Museum, Menagerie, Caravan and Balloon Show, with Whitney's Great Hippodrome. Proprietors, Baird, Howell & Co.; manager J. W. Baird . . . chief billposter, Chas. Anderson . . . Gymnasts, Mons. Murtz, the Victoria Brothers . . . Acrobats, leapers and tumblers, Campbell, Smith, Cortland and Fountain. Proprietor of sideshow, George de Haven. Proprietor of candy privileges, Felix McDonald. Supt. menagerie, Felix McDonald. Winter quarters, Salem, Ohio, where the first show will be given. New York Clipper, April 18, 1874, Supplement, n.p.n.
William La Rue, hurdle rider, has been engaged with Baird, Howell & Co.'s Circus, Museum and Menagerie, which is to exhibit at Salem, O., May 2. The advance party started on the road April 16. The advertising wagon is in the form of a globe, elaborately painted and drawn by four cream-colored horses. Charles Whitney, the general manager in advance, will travel in a buggy drawn by a pair of fine gray horses. Kit Carson Jr. wants to engage curiosities to travel with Baird, Howell & Co.'s Circus. New York Clipper, April 25, 1874, p. 31.
Baird, Howell & Co.'s Menagerie and Circus showed at Palmyra, O., May 4, Ravenna 5, Garrettsville 6, Warren 7, Canfield 8, Columbia 9. New York Clipper, May 16, 1874, p. 55.
Baird, Howell & Co.'s Oriental Circus, Museum and Menagerie was at Titusville, Pa., June 6. New York Clipper, June 13, 1874, p. 87.
Baird, Howells & Co.'s Circus and Menagerie will be henceforth known as the Chicago Zoological Exposition. Mr. Baird having retired from the management. G. W. De Haven is now manager; Chas. Whitney, ___ director . . . and Scott Valentine, programmer. A large number of animals have recently been added to the show, viz., a lioness and four cubs, an eland, a horned horse, a rhinocerous, an elephant, a camel, and twelve cages of birds, monkeys and small animals. Balloon ascensions are made daily by Profs. John Bristol and Aaron Smith. Among the features of the arena are the parlor gymnastics of Prof. La Rue and his two little sons, and the trick and somersault riding of Little Willie O. Dale. They performed at Rohrsburg, Pa., July 20, Berwick 21, Bloomsburg 22, Danville 23, Ringtown 26. About the middle of August are to exhibit in Philadelphia and then ship South. New York Clipper, August 1, 1874, p. 143.
The Great Chicago Circus (formerly Baird, Howell & Co.'s Circus) is to perform in Virginia, thence through North Carolina. New York Clipper, October 31, 1874, p. 247.
The Chicago Show, formerly Baird, Howell & Co.'s, burst up at Farmville, Va., Oct. 31. They had been exhibiting in that State during the past two weeks to very poor business. New York Clipper, November 14, 1874, p. 263.
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Baker & Gleason's Trained Animal Paradox - 1887 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1887
Will open September 5th under manager W. J. Maxwell at Pottsville, Pennsylvania. New York Clipper, May 28, 1887, pp. 167, 175. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
. . . at Riverhead, L.I., the mishap with the Australian circus met while performing to a crowded audience in that village. The treasurer had $4,000 belonging to the establishment, and, with what the exhibition rendered, he absconded, leaving the managers without a cent to liquidate their debts. When the bills for their keeping and transportation from town to town were presented the creditors were politely informed that there was no money in the treasury . . . the President of the Long Island Railroad was busily engaged in taking the preliminary steps to insure him against loss, as they had the use of a chartered train of several cars, and in the evening the Sheriff levied on all the property. The natives became enraged to think they had thus been outdone by the Commodore and determined to have revenge by imprisoning every one connected with the show. A large number were arrested, and not having money nor proper persons to become their bail, are still in duress. Miss Minnie Wells and her lions are here, and she threatens legal action for detaining her caged pets. . . . The stock of the establishment will be sold at public auction if the debts are not removed before the time fixed for the sale by law. New York Herald, July 8, 1870. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.
The partnership hitherto existing between Curtis L. Bailey and Wilbert D. Winans has been dissolved by mutual consent. Bailey's New London Circus, and Wilbert D. Winans' Own Show will open, respectively, at Newton Falls, O., and Cleveland, O., May 2. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
Bailey's Great London Circus will be made up as follows for the season of 1891: Curtis L. Bailey, sole manager; Al. Dolson, general agent; Frank McFarland, contracting and press agent; W. B.(?) Harris, advertising agent; Geo. Rexford, equestrian director; Frank Farrell, manager of concert . . . C. F.(?) Ward, master of canvas; M. G. Hayman, master of transportation; W. C. Cox, chandelliers . . . Chas. Davis, boss hostler. Performers: The Three Brothers Rexford; Dan C. Manning and wife; Mills Bros., Zeno Bros.; Prof. Treat and wife; Prof. Treat's Dog Circus; Frank Farrell and Ida Bailey(?) The show will travel by rail, using four cars, and will open the season at Manager Bailey's home, Newton Falls, O., May 2(?). New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 76.
Dan C. Manning and Ida Bailey were Clipper callers April 1. They have signed with C. L. Bailey's Circus for the season. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 76.
Call. All people engaged for Bailey's Great London Circus report for rehearsal on Wednesday, April 29. Wanted good dog man, Prof. Treat write; also A 1 clarionet player for band and orchestra. C. L. Bailey, Newton Falls, Ohio. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 104.
Wanted, for Bailey's Great London Rail Road Shows, a few more good circus people doing two or more turns. Must leap and tumble. Good female aerial act and troupe of performing ponies or horses and dogs. Address C. L. Bailey, manager, Newton Falls, Ohio. Wanted for advance, contracting agent and ten billposters and lithographers. Address A. L. Dolson, general agent. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 127.
Bailey's Great London Railroad Shows will inaugurate their second annual tour at Newton Falls, O., May 2(?). The prospects are bright for a prosperous season, and the show is put together regardless of expense and on strictly first class principles. The roster: C. L. Bailey, sole manager; A. L. Dolson, general director and railroad contractor; Geo. E.(B.?) Bailey, treasurer and ticket seller; Frank Bailey, contracting agent; W. H. Harris, agent of advertising car; Fred McGee, boss billposter, with ten assistants; Fredy Smith and Ed. Davenport, lithographers . . . Robinson, director reserved seats; Wallace Tillmen(Tillman?), manager candy stands; Carly Ward, boss canvasman; John E. Davis, boss hostler; Doc Hammond, in charge of ring and racing stock; E. E.(?) Ryan, boss propertyman; Dave Walton, in charge of wardrobe . . . Geo. O'Brien, steward; Prof. Merle Morton, bandmaster, with twelve musicians . . . Geo. Rexford, equestrian director . . . C. L. Bailey Jr., Fusiyama troupe of Japanese performers, Dan Manning, Brothers Rexford, Sinclair Sisters . . . Mills Bros., Prof. Treat's equine and canine paradox, Frank Farrell(?), Ida Bailey, Louise De Forrest, Queen and Randall, and ten cowboys and female riders. Chief Red Cloud, Princess Prairie Flower and six Indians, squaws and papooses, Denver Dan, Nellie Coleman, Jennie Griffin, Grace Lee, Dan Cooper, Ed. O'Neil . . . Prof. Darrow and Prof. Langham. The show will travel by rail and will use seven 60ft. cars, 40(?) head of stock, a 120(?)ft. round top tent with two __ft. middle pieces, a 50(?)ft. dressing round top, a spectacular and illusions (blocks) tent, 80ft. round top with 40ft. middle piece, a sideshow canvas 50x30(?)ft., three horse tents, two cook house tents, ten baggage wagons, five tableau wagons, one steam calliope, two band wagons, one Japanese pagoda wagon, two four horse chariots, and a Wild West stage. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 135.
Ida Bailey Manning, of the Mannings, has entirely recovered from an attack of the grip, and has resumed work with C. L. Bailey's Circus. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 169.
Bailey’s London Circus opened its season at Newton Falls, O., May 2 . . . Geo. Rexford, equestrian director . . . Frank Farreli is working the sideshow openings and concert announcements, . . . Manager Bailey recently secured several head of fine ring stock and a number of performing horses at Chicago, and 'Pop' McFarland is training them very nicely. The Cordellos (Pierre, Leona and Angelo), principal bareback, hurdle and four horse riders, are a clever trio, . . ." New York Clipper, May 16, 1891.
On the road, circuses: Bailey's London, Cleveland, O., May 1?-1?. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 171.
Nelson Sinclair and Nellie Carlisle, aerialists, joined Bailey's London Circus at Toledo, O., May 11(?). New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
On the road, circuses: Bailey's London, Cleveland, O., May 28-30(?). New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
On the road, circuses: Bailey's London, Buffalo, N. Y., June 11-13(?). New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 219.
On the road, circuses: Bailey's London, Buffalo, N.Y. June 11-13 . . . New Bethlehem 11, Brookville 12, Reynoldsville 13, Du Bois, 15(?) . . . New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
Circus people please notice. H. J. Ewing, of whom I leased the outfit which I have been successfully managing as Bailey's Great London Circus, took possession of my show on Friday, June 12(?), not because it was losing money, for the show never lost a dollar, but because he thought he could "pinch(?)" me. I no longer have any connection with the outfit and ___ has no right to the use of my name in any manner. I will soon be "in it" again and want to buy a ___ round top, with ___ middle pieces. . . . seats, lights, etc., etc. Band wagon, ticket wagon, pole wagon and baggage wagons. Must be dirt cheap for cash. Want circus people who can do more than two turns . . . Wagon show. Address Curtis L. Bailey, care Russell & ___ Printing Co., Cincinnati, Ohio. New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 261.
C. L. Bailey has no longer any connection with the show he has been managing as Bailey's London Circus. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 268.
Dan C. Manning, principal clown; Ida Bailey and Manning and dogs, late of Bailey's London Circus, have signed with Prof. De Cooper's Circus. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 268.
On the road, circuses: C. L. Bailey's, Chicago, Ill. June 29(?), indefinite. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
Fred Aymar has closed with Bailey's London Show, and is at his home, Waterbury, Ct., preparing his new act. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
1890: The Maginleys, Ed and Lotta, aerial performers, have signed with Bailey and Winans' Circus for next season. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
1890: Bailey & Winan's advance forces for the coming circus season are: Al. Dobson, general advance manager; Lee Powell, contracting agent; Harry Davis, press agent; Fred Settler, chief bill poster and superintendent advertising wagon No. 1; Ed. Leies, superintendent advertising wagon No. 2; Henry Settler, superintendent advertising wagon No. 3; M. C. Reed, superintendent skirmishing brigade; W. G. Boyd, superintendent herald and programme wagon. The advance will consist of seventeen people, and will use twelve head of stock, five bill wagons and two agents' buggies. The printing will be entirely new, and of the very best kind. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
1890: The Martinettie Bros. [sic Martinetti] have signed with Bailey & Winan's Circus for the coming season. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
1890: The Cordellos, Pierre, Leona and Angelo - equestrians, have been engaged for the Bailey & Winans' Shows for the coming season. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 765.
1890: Albert Merri??th, contortionist, and Marguerite, bicycle wire performer, have signed with Bailey & Winans' Circus for next season. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 781.
1890: The Edwins, acrobats . . . have signed with Bailey & Winans' Circus for the coming season. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 781.
1890: Billy Lee and Bertha Lee have signed with Bailey & Winans' Circus for the coming tenting season. The first(?) named will continue the ___ of clown. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 793.
1890: C. L. Bailey, of the Bailey & Winans' Shows, has been in the far West for the past month or so, ___ Indians, Squaws and papooses, cowboys, mustangs and bucking bronchos for the Wild West branch of their show. He returned to Newton Falls, O., last week, and also brought East with him a novelty in the shape of an old time stage coach, formerly owned by the Southern Pacific Railroad Co., and used by them for transporting passengers from Demming, N. M., to Silver City, Cal., which will make a feature in the street parade and Wild West. Manager ___ has engaged some of the best performers in the profession for next season, and recently secured a number of performing horses and several head of fine ring stock at Chicago, Ill. The show is being put together regardless of expense, and will open season at Newton Falls, O., on or about May 1 . . . Everything will be conducted on strictly first class principles. . . . New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 813.
1890: Rio Grande Bill, fancy rifle shot and rider, will have charge of the Wild West with the Bailey & Winan's Combined Shows next season. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 829.
1890: Al. Dobson and Lee Powell, chief agents of the Bailey & Winans' Circus, have been busy the past week or so on the advance printing(?) and press work for that show. All the printing will be entirely first class . . . The lithographs and most of the pictorial printing will be special work of new and original designs. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 861.
1890: Bailey and Winans attended the recent Lexington, Ky., horse sale, where they purchased two car loads of fine thoroughbred stock, to be used in the hippodrome races and for exhibition purposes with their show. These, . . . with the horses on their stock farm at Newton Falls, give them as fine stock as will be carried ___ show on the road next season. . . . New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 7.
1890: Bailey & Winans Combined Shows, newly equipped and thoroughly organized for season 1890. Wanted - Cook, chandelier man, and boss property man. For sale - good outside privileges to responsible party (no ticket sellers). . . . Address Wilbert D. Winans, business manager, Newton Falls, Ohio. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 15.
1890: William Irwin, late of the Irwin Bros., has signed with the Bailey & Winans Circus for the tenting season. Mr. Irwin will bring out a new act this season, which he has worked hard and diligently to accomplish. Old time professionals who have seen the act pronounce it far ahead of anything they ever saw in the aerial line. The Irwins have been playing the past winter in the high class vaudeville theatres, and will take well earned and needed rest prior to their opening with the Bailey & Winans Show. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 46.
1890: The complete make up of Bailey & Winan's Circus, Museum, Hippodrome and Wild West is as follows: Executive staff: Curtis L. Bailey and Wilbert D. Winan, proprietors and managers; Geo. E. Bailey, treasurer and ticket seller; Pete Conklin Jr., assistant ticket seller . . . Lee Powell, contracting agent; Henry E. Davis, press agent; Fred Kettler, boss billposter with ten assistants; F. A. Davenport and Eurene Fleming(?) lithographers; Diamond Joe and Yankee Jenkins, advance ___ agents . . . Ed. Robinson, director reserved seats . . . "Curley" Ward, boss canvasman; John E. Hadley, boss hostler . . . Geo. O'Brien, steward . . . Lillian Cole's female silver cornet band and Denver Dan's cowboy brass band. Performers: Edwin Martinetti, equestrian director; the Cordellos (Pierre, Leona(?) and Angelo), principal bareback, somersault and four horse riders; W. ?. Winan Jr. and ten performing stallions; ___ troupe of Japanese performers; Pete Conklin and Billy Lee, principal clowns; William Irwin . . . Eddie Maginley . . . Albert Meredith; Marguerite Meredith; the Edwins(?) (Arthur and Sadie . . . Don Franck; Henry Baker; Bertha Lee; Loretta Armstrong . . . Rio Grande Bill (manager of Wild West, with ten cowboys and female riders); Chief Red Cloud; Princes Prairie Flower and eight Indians, squaws and papposes[sic] . . . Dan Cooper; Ed. O'Neal and Bill Hartley. The show will travel in wagons . . . a spectacular and illusion (black) tent . . . four horse tents, three cook tents, twenty baggage wagons, five tableau wagons, one steam calliope, two band wagons, one Japanese pagoda wagon, one Wild West stage, two tallyho coaches, thirty canvasmen, thirty grooms, five(?) property men, eight cooks and waiters . . . The company will open their season at Newton Falls . . . with an entirely new outfit, and will tour the West and South. New York Clipper, April 5, 1890, p. 59.
1890: Call. All people engaged for the advance brigades of the Bailey & Winan's Combined Shows will report for duty at Newton Falls, Ohio, Tuesday, April 1?. Al. Dobson, general agent. New York Clipper, April 5, 1890, p. 60.
1890: Wanted, for Bailey & Winans' Circus, Museum and Wild West. The biggest 25 cent show on earth. A few good people for sideshow, curiosites and ___. Address Peter Conklin, St. Louis, Mo. N. Y. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 77.
1890-1891, 0074.pdf1890: The Four Martinetti Bros. (Edwin, Louis, Francis and Harry) have signed for the season with Bailey & Winan's Show. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 91.
1890: Bailey & Winans' advance brigade began operation at Newton Falls, O., April __. The roster includes: Al Dolson, general agent and director; Lee Powell, contracting agent; Henry E. Davis, press agent; Fred Kettler . . . W. G.(?) Boyd . . . New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 91.
1890: Call. Bailey & Winans Combined Shows report for rehearsal at Newton Falls, Ohio, Thursday, May 1. Bailey & Winans, Newton Falls, Ohio. All people engaged for the sideshow of the Bailey & Winan's Combined Shows report as above and acknowledge call by letter to Pete Conklin, manager, 3,609 Grand Avenue, St. Louis, Mo. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 95.
1890: Wanted, a few more musicians for Bailey & Winan's Shows. Address Henry Armstrong, Newton Falls, Ohio. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 111.
1890: Notes from Bailey & Winan's Show. Business so far, considering the inclemency of the weather, has been fair. We have been in one continuous rain storm since the opening at Newton Falls, O. On account of bad roads, at time impassable, we have been compelled to lose several stands, and at Akron, O., May __, ___ a cyclone ___ considerable damage. The show ___ traveling by rail, cars having been leased from the ___ car works at Dayton, O. Judge H. J. ___ a Cleveland attorney, who had a third interest in the show, has sold out to Messers. Bailey & Winans, who are now sole owners and proprietors, and their prospects are very favorable. Everybody with the show is enjoying good health . . . New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 167.
1890: Wanted for Bailey & Winan's New Combined R. R. Shows, contracting agent and 10 billposters. Address Al. Dolson, general agent, Wheeling, W. Va., May __. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 172.
1890: . . . Kern and Dougherty. . . have joined Bailey & Winans' Circus and Wild West for the balance of the season. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 215.
1890: The band and some of the people of the disbanded Markowitz Circus have signed with Bailey & Winan's Show. New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 243.
1890: Notes from Bailey & Winan's Show. Ten head of stock have been added to the show since you last heard from us. Business is most satisfactory, and the show is giving satisfaction. Two more cars, one stock and a flat car were recently added and making in all seven flats, three stock cars, two sleeping coaches and one dining car. We also have one advance car, with Al. Dolson ahead, with ten assistants, and they are doing some fine work in the shape of advertising. The roster now is as follows: Bailey & Winan, sole proprietors and managers; H. J. Ewing, treasurer; Frank Farrell, equestrian director; Harry Emmett, concert manager; Prof. Shaw's band, with ten mouthpieces; the Devino(?) Bros., triple bars; Eddie and Lo?a McGinley, double trapeze and aerial trick ladders; the Mederic Bros., brother act; Anzola(?) and McDonald, contortionists; Sig. Arcaris and sister, knife throwers . . . Prof. Harry White's trained dogs and ponies; and Hugh Dougherty, double somersault leaper and tumbler. Our concert people are: Harry and Mamie Emmett, Frank Farrell(Parrell?), the Arcarises and Smith and Roy, Prof. Shaw's band includes: J. Baker, Mr. Dougherty, John Barkell, Frank Parrell(Farrell?), Thos. Griffin, Geo. Carlisle, J. E. Smith, M. E. Roy, A. Baird(?) and Jeff Sei?rist. The Wild West consists of Omaha Clates, with ten cowboys. Four jockeys ride in the hippodrome races, and we also have two chariot races. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 294.
1890: Mrs. W. S. Dar?? has sold her interest in Drary's(?) Museum, Cleveland, O., to W. D. Winans. It will reopen Nov. _, as Winans' Circus Museum, with W. D. Winans as proprietor and manager. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 533.
1890: Manager C. L. Bailey, of the Bailey & Winans Circus, is spending the winter with his family at Jacksonville, Fla. The show is safely stored away in winter quarters at Newton Falls, O., undergoing repairs and improvements and next Spring with be shipped South for an early start. New York Clipper, November 22, 1890, 587.
1891: A. L. Dobson, late general agent of Bailey & Winans' Circus, is doing the advance work for Barlow Bros.' Minstrels. New York Clipper, January 24, 1891, p. 726.
1891: Curtis L. Bailey, formerly of the firm of Bailey & Winans, will put out a show of his own on the road this spring, to be known as Bailey's Great London Circus. He will open the season at Newton Falls, O., May 2(?). Everything about the show will be new and attractive. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
The partnership hitherto existing between Curtis L. Bailey and Wilbert D. Winans has been dissolved by mutual consent. Bailey's New London Circus, and Wilbert D. Winans' Own Show will open, respectively, at Newton Falls, O., and Cleveland, O., May 2. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
Baker, Hart & Co.'s Big 25 Cent Circus - 1889 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1889
F. A. Goldquist, Galesburg, Illinois, wants personnel in all branches of circus & sideshow. New York Clipper, June 19, 1889, p. 232. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Baker & Johnson's - 1873
Baker & Johnson's Circus stock was to have been sold at auction at Fort Wayne, Ind., on Oct. _. New York Clipper, October 11, 1873, p. 223.
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Bruce L. Baldwin's Shows - 1893-94
1893: Bruce L. Baldwin, of Baldwin's Railroad Show, and his wife, visited Yankee Robinson's grave, at Jefferson, Ia., June ?, and had the grass trimmed, and some potted plants placed on the grave, to show that some one still lived who revered the memory of the founder of several successful enterprises still in existence. Mr. Baldwin writes: I went to California in 1877 with Mr. Robinson, and was a member of his company when he built the permanent circus in that city. I left him at the ___, and went with Sam D???'f Museum, up in the Columbia River country. It seemed a sad concidence of 'man's inhumanity to man' to see the lone, unkempt mound that marked the last resting place of such a man as Yankee Robinson, neglected as it has been. My show is making a little money now, though it was rather a hard tumble in May. I have a 100ft. top, with two forty's for the big top . . . with two thirty's for menagerie and museum combined; no(?) sideshow; ten head ring stock, thirty head working stock, forty-five people and seven cars. My colt, Chas. W. Fish, 2:33 1/4 as a yearling, is entered for the two year old stakes at ???pendence, in August; Terre Haute, September, and Rochester, N.Y. Dickerson will drive him. He can now beat 2:20. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
1893: Notes from Baldwin's Metropolitan Shows. At ___, Ia., July 27, two drunken hoodlums attempted to go under the side wall, but were thrown out. They left the lot and went for reinforcements. They cut the ladies' dressing room side wall before "hey rube" was sounded. When the circus yell was given manager Bruce Baldwin and boss canvasman McHugh jumped into the mob of eight or ten and beat them off. Three of the hoodlums were severly slugged and one may die. Manager Baldwin was arrested at Lansing on July 30 and taken back to Waucoma, but furnished bail for his appearance in September. The attack on the show was wholly uncalled for. Jack Buck, a driver, was cut on the left arm, and Ollie Walsh, canvasman, was hit with a brick, neither would serious. The cook house was made a banquet hall for about twenty tramp Colorado miners at Lawley, Ia., 26. Mr. Baldwin served them two good "squares," and seated them in the afternoon show. The Mayor of Lawler stepped into the ring at closing of the performance and held his hat for a collection for the unfortunate men. Nearly forty dollars was contributed, and the "boys in spangles" and other members of the company contributed liberally. The expressions on their faces fully repaid any acts of kindness done for them. The Milwaukee Railroad transported them into the harvest fields of Minnesota. "Gypsie," the riding dog, was badly hurt two weeks agon in Minnesota, but is working again. The brother act of the Four Baldwins is very catchy, as is also their bar act. Picard, contortionist, is practicing a new and novel act for the winter season. The Valentines go East in October. Burk and Weston will play dates during the Winter, and Harvey McDonald will work at his trade at Chicago. Tony Sidahl is making a hit in his prinicpal act. The "tumbling" line was strengthened by Eddie Baldwin's return. They all "keep tab(?)" now. The Bennetts will winter in Alabama and the show in Lexington, Ky. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
1894: There are four circuses wintering in Iowa, vis.: F. J. Taylor's, Bruce L. Baldwin's Railroad Shows, Dick P. Sutton's Railroad Shows and Kirkhart Bros.' Show. Burke and Weston are practicing their grotesque aerial act at their home, Waukegan, Ill. They rejoin the Bruce L. Baldwin Shows next season, as do the Valentines, Tony Sidahl, M. Pieardo, Lilly Lawler, Eddie Frank and Dan Baldwin, and Harry De??en and wife. Ed. Burke will be equestrian director and Larry Weston principal clown. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
1894: Roster of Bruce L. Baldwin's Shows. - Bruce L. Baldwin, sole owner and manager; W. S. ???, treasurer; Harvey T. Cook, general agent; Frank Wurth, press agent; Wm. Tully, boss bill poster; Thos. Ryan, Chas Howard, Clarence Zimmerman, Ed. Foley, P. F. Kane, John Wilbur, Tom Harris, C. W. Bardbury and Arthur Childs, assistant bill poster, lithographers and programmers; Jack Ord, boss hostler, with sixteen drivers; Roy Herrard, in charge of ring stock, with four grooms; "Four Paw" McCathy, boss canvas man, twelve assistants; Tom Christman, boss chandelier man; Pete Fitzgerald, boss property man with four assistants; Victor Donahue, master of transportation, with nine assistants; Mike Kelly, watchman; Wash. Hall, chef, with six assistants; Joe Moran, porter, with two assistants. Band: Arthur Hutters, director, with eleven mouth pieces; Ed. Connors, manager of side show. Performers: Ed. Burke, equestrian director; Tony Sidahl, principal bareback and hurdle rider; Larry Weston, principal clown; Tony and Minnie Sidahl, carrying act; Dan Baldwin, principal leaper and tumbler; Charles and M?? Valentine, flying return act; Lilly Lawler, slack wire and juggler; Burke and Weston, grotesque aerial act and knockabout trick tumblers(?); Bruce L. Baldwin, Frank and Ed. Baldwin, brother act and bars; Frank and Ed. Baldwin, carrying perche; Bruce Baldwin, breakaway perche and parachute leap; M. Picardo, contortionist and equlibrist; Harry Deilen(?) and wife, balancers and jugglers. The leaping and tumbling will be especial features, the former having four double somersault throwers. Menagerie in charge of Al. Beck and three assistants. Show opened April 16 at Fulton, Mo., to good business. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 103.
Note: also see Young & Baldwin.
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Ball & Fitzpatrick's - 1865 This show is listed for 1865 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Ball & Fitzpatrick's Great National Amphitheatre and Mazeppa Combination. The most attractive exhibition consisting of dramatic, equestrian, terpsicorean gymnastic, acrobatic and vocal performances. Will exhibit in Rome, May 31st, afternoon and evening. Col. J. C. Sturat, advertising agent. The show will exhibit in Oneida June 1st. [Advertisement] Rome Daily Sentinel (Rome,NY), May 30, 1865, n.p.n.
Ball & Fitzpatrick's Great National Amphitheatre holds forth in this city this afternoon and evening. Lockport Daily Journal (Lockport, NY) June 15, 1865, n.p.n.
John Patrick Hogan was with Stanley & Mason's Minstrels, doubling with John Prendergast as the Excelsior Brothers in 1864. In the summer of 1865 they joined Ball & Fitzpatrick's Amphitheatre Company at Albany, N. Y., in "Mazeppa." Ellis, Charles Edward, An authentic history of the Benevolent and protective order of Elks, Chicago: The author, 1910, p. 323.
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Dewitt Ballard's Circus - 1913 Show is listed for 1913 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Wanted, circus performers, principal and equestrian acts with stock. Clowns, all the varied ground acts, horizontal bar and aerial acts. A female dancing specialty troupe, handsomely gowned and up-to-date. Lady orchestra, 10 pieces, including soloist, double brass and string. Also good specialty acts suited for a one-ring circus. Pullman and dining car accommodations. A new one-ring circus with an entire new outfit. Season opens latter part of May. Address Dewitt Ballard, Royal Hotel, Bridgeport, Conn. [Advertisement] Billboard, April 26, 1913, p. 23.
Buffalo Bill's Wild West caterer for the past ten years now offers his paraphernalia consisting of wagons, tents, boiler, ranges, crockery, cutlery, and everything in connection with the cook house for sale in parts at half cost. Apply Dewitt Ballard, Royal Hotel, Bridgeport, Conn. [Advertisement] Billboard, April 26, 1913, p. 39.
It is said that Ballard's circus showing here today is one of the niftiest little shows of its kind ever cemented together. It's the real circus article. Hudson Evening Register (Hudson, NY), June 6, 1913, p. 8.
The DeWitt Ballard circus which was booked to appear at the driving park, today and tomorrow, hadn't shown up up to press time. As the company had all kinds of trouble, last week, and seemed to be in financial difficulty, it is believed they failed to make the city. The North Adams Transcript says the company lost about $2,000 last week and when it rained in North Adams on Thursday night the company was pretty well discouraged. It is alleged the trouble began a week or so ago when a femal band which had been features quit. An Italian band was secured to take the place of the girls and was allowed to go. The circus was supposed to go from North Adams to Athol and then to Gardner and Fitchburg. Fitchburg Daily Sentinel (Fitchburg, MA), June 23, 1913, p. 2.
The roster of Ballard's 20th Century Circus: Dewitt Ballard, proprietor; Chas. Bannard, manager; Jos. F. Moore, treasurer and press agent; Michael Martin, boss canvasman; Tom Campblee, privilege man; Eli Fournier, boss hostler. Billboard, June 28, 1913, p. 27.
Waltham, Mass., July 2. The hard and seamy side of the show business is well illustrated with the advent of DeWitt Ballard's "Greatest 10 and 20 cent Show on Earth," in Waltham. The show was advertised to play here for two days and it still remains here, or what is left of it, because it can't get out. Poor business financially embarrased the outfit before it reached the "Watch City" and it was pretty well crippled when it reached here about noon Thursday. Aside from the present attachments, brought by the hostlers and Al. Seibert (owner of two white bare-back horses), one of its railroad cars had been attached in Worcester and only two cars arrived in Waltham. A band of lady musicians and several other performers had severed their connection with the show only a few days prior to its reaching this city because they could not get any money. The management was unable to get ready for the performance Thursday afternoon but it did give some sort of a show Thursday night. There was no show Friday afternoon, but something in the way of a program was attempted that night in order to raise enough money to feed the few performers and employees who still remained. The two cars, on the Elm street siding, have been attached by the Boston & Main Railroad Company, it is believed.
Following on the heels of this show Sig Sautelle's "9-Big-Shows" was scheduled to show here. It did Saturday and drew a good house. When Mr. Sautelle heard of the plight of the Ballad outfit he offered two-thirds of the entire value for what remained of the show and it was refused. The big top was packed away in the cook house, which, with the animal tent, is all that remains visible to the passerby. Seibert's two horses and a lamb is all that was under the canvas Sunday. Both tents are pitched on a small lot on the outskirts of the city and the few persons who stuck to the outfit are sitting around wondering where their next three "squares" are coming from. Some complain of having had nothing to eat while others are satisfied to await the return of Ballard, who left the show Saturday night and went to Boston, hoping that he will return with sufficient means to pay them off. Some of the hostlers are accepting the hospitality of neighbors.
Starting from Bridgeport about one month ago as one of the prettiest little shows that ever went through the small towns, it promised to be a success. When reaching Massachusetts the performers noticed they were not drawing the crowds which had been anticipated but when the pay envelope was not forthcoming at the week end they began to get suspicious and finally one by one of the troupe left. What remains of the employees claim that Ballard saw what was coming and rather than drop the show he stuck it out by withholding the pay in an effort to make a go of the show, but when they reached Waltham they became so dissatisfied that they could not hold out any longer and filed an attachment in the Middlesex Registry of Deeds and the writ was served Friday. Variety, July 5, 1913, p. 6.
Waltham, Mass., July 9. DeWitt Ballard's "Greatest 10-20 Show on Earth" still remains here. The attachments as yet have not been dissolved and the outfit is apparently in no better shape now than the day they were ordered not to remove any of their paraphernalia until the debts have been paid. Variety, July 11, 1913, p. 6.
For Sale. One Pullman sleeper, 62 feet long, 6-wheel turcks, steel-tire wheels, steel platform, wide vestible, 12 Pullman sections in one end, 9 carpenter made berths, one toilet, 2 porcelain wash stands, overhead water; other end, one stateroom, one toilet, 2 porcelain wash stands, overhead water, large chandelier, oil lamps, one large cellar. This car was used four weeks after being fitted out, and can be bought for $1,550. DeWitt Ballard, Royal Hotel, Bridgeport, Conn. [Advertisement] Billboard, January 31, 1914, p. 37.
Royal Hotel, Bridgeport, Conn.; European only; rooms 50c and upwards, to the profession; cafe; dining room; moderate prices. D. Ballard, proprietor, past twenty-four years with the big shows. [Advertisement] Billboard, January 31, 1914, p. 37.
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Banard Bros. Circus - 1933 Show is listed for 1934, 1945-49 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses. Listed for 1934 in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
Wednesday will be "circus day" at South Zanesville. Troop 42 of Boy Scouts at that place will sponsor the appearance of the Banard Brothers' circus and Wild West show. Performances will take place on the South Zanesville school grounds. Banard Brothers present a circus with two rings, 35 people and 68 animals. Henry A. Bede, general agent for the circus was here last week to make arrangements for the showing. Sunday Times-Signal (Zanesville, OH), June 25, 1933, p. 3.
• An article on the Banard Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 3, pp. 14-22.
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Bankofsky's Russian circus - 1903
Bankofsky's Russian circus, which has been exhibiting in Manila and Japan and China cities, was scheduled to sail yesterday for San Francisoc, via Honolulu. The intention is to stop over here for a couple of weeks. The circus has 100 horses and menagerie animals. Hawaiian Gazette (Honolulu, HI), October 27, 1903, p. 6.
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Bantley Bros. Nickel Plate - 1923 (Herman Bantly) Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1923
Bantly Bros. Nickel Plate Circus. Centralizing in one big show. Wanted: circus and animal acts of all kinds. Performers and workmen in all branches of the circus business. Herman Bantly, owner and director. Office, 4th floor Arrott Power Bldg., Pittsburgh, PA. Winter quarters, Reynoldsville, Pa. Harry Dunkel, manager. [Advertisement] Billboard, December 16, 1922, p. 122.
Plans for 1923 at Reynoldsville, Pennsylvania quarters. Ordered canvas by radio. Billboard, December 16, 1922, p. 122; January 20, 1923, p. 74. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Wesley Barmore's Grand Adriatic - 1854
Wesley Barmore's Grand Adriatic Circus. Will exhibit at Syracuse July 3d, 4th, 5th. Equestrian, gymnastic and acrobatic feats, among whom may be mentioned Madame Louise Brower, Messrs. W. W. Nichols, E. W. Perry, G. W. Sargeant, G. W. Dunbar, Donaldson, Walters, Frank Bower, Felix Carlo and Son. Two great clowns in the circle! . . . John M. McCreary, agent. [Advertisement] Evening Chronicle (Syracuse, NY), June 23, 1854, n.p.n.
Wesley Barmore's Grand Adriatic Circus. . . . advertised for Wednesday and Thursday, July 12th and 13th. Mr. Barmore is a young Circus proprietor, but an old stager and manager, and seeing, with the public generally, the the degeneracy of the profession, has attempted the herculean task of bringing it back to its original legitimacy. He has got together a troupe of eminent artists, and discarding all the claptrap and outside show which have of late been depended upon, has invested an amount in salaries and inside fitting up almost incredible. The consequence is that every where his Company has given the most entire satisfaction, and its reputation is established completely. Our citizens will have the fortune for two days to witness their superior performances, and we feel satisfied they will not be backward in extending their support to so excellent a concern. Let them remember Wednesday and Thursday of this week. - Utica Obs. Herkimer Journal (Little Falls, NY), July 20, 1854, p. 2.
We notice by the Utica Telegraph that one of the boats of the Adriatic Circus Company sunk on Thursday, near Newville, causing a serious loss to the proprietors. This company is to be in Syracuse today. Daily Standard, July 31, 1854, n.p.n.
1862: A Five Year's Lawsuit About Circus Property. The case of John Sloat, agt. Kate Barmore, wife of Wesly Barmore, being an action of replevin, to determine the right of possession to certain circus property, came before Judge Sharswood yesterday. The plaintiff, in November, 1857, leased this property to defendant, to be used as the National Theatre, for a certain period, and at a certain sum, per week. Difficulties arose between the parties, and Sloat recovered possession of the property, giving security therefor. The defendant still claimed possession. The case has been postponed from time to time, in consequence of the absence of the plaintiff in the South. The case was called again yesterday, but plaintiff's counsel requested a further postponement on account of continued absence. The court refused, and the case being submitted, the jury rendered a verdict in favor of defendant for three thousand dollars. Wesley Barmore, the husband of the defendant, (now deceased), was celebrated as the original performer of "Uncle Tom" in Uncle Tom's Cabin. - Phil. Inquirer. The Democrat (Skaneateles, NY), November 27, 1862, n.p.n.
In 1854 Wesley Barmore's Grand Adriatic Circus sported on the Erie and other canals. Frank Brower was manager, E. W. Perry was equestrian manager, and Jno. M. Creary, agent. The evening's entertainment closed with an equestrian sketch entitled "Uncle Tom's Cabin; or, Life Among the Lowly." New York Clipper, Supplement, April 17, 1875, p. 2.
Samuel Harris. Born in 1825. Was better known as S. Wesley Barmore. Became popular as the representative of Uncle Tom in "Uncle Tom's Cabin'" Died in Brooklyn, L. I., Aug. 25, 1858.
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Al G. Barnes - 1909, 1912, 1918-19, 1920, 1923, 1935 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1906-1938
• Articles on the early years of the Al G. Barnes' Trained Wild Animal Show are in Bandwagon, May-June, 1980, Vol. 24, No. 3, pp. 19-26, and in Bandwagon, November-December, 1981, Vol. 25, No. 6, pp. 16-20.
1909:
Al G. Barnes Wild Animal Circus: Al G. Barnes, proprietor; Jas. A. Morrow, maanger; H. C. Wilbur, general agent; Jas. A. Morrow, R. R. contractor; Jas. Donohue, local contractor; Al G. Foster, special agent; Monte Williams, checker-up; Geo. Evans, excursion agent; Chas. Smith, manager side show; H. C. Wilbur, car maanger; Geo. A. Ryan, Billy Needham, R. G. Below, Martin Downey, and Roy Feltum, billposters; Richard Pettitt, Sam Smith, lithographers and banner men; Abe Cummins, program man; Chris Attell, cook. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
• An article on the 1911-12 Al G. Barnes' Wild Animal Circus is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1982, Vol. 26, No. 2, pp. 3-10. 1912:
Louis Roth, animal trainer, was back with the Al G. Barnes' Circus before it closed, after being in the hospital for a long time. He was badly hurt by a lion on the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows. Jim Marrow, of the Al G. Barnes' Circus, left for his home in Fresno, Cal., after the closing of the show. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
• An article on the 1913-14 Al G. Barnes' Wild Animal Circus is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1982, Vol. 26, No. 5, pp. 4-12.
• An article on the 1915 Al G. Barnes' Wild Animal Circus is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1983, Vol. 27, No. 1, pp. 4-17.
• An article on the 1917-18 Al G. Barnes' Wild Animal Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1983, Vol. 27, No. 6, pp. 15-27.
1918:
G. F. Millard, boss canvasman, and Joe Puentes, female impersonator, both late of the Al G. Barnes Circus, gave a dinner party at their home in Venice-by-the Sea. Kenneth R. Waite, producing clown of the Barnes Circus, guest. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 31.
Venice, Cal., Feb. 15. The winter quarters of the Al G. Barnes present a busy appearance. James Babcock has been installed as superintendent and has a force in the wagon shop. Bill Ellis is chief decorator. Skinny Dawson is in the wagon department. Babcock is at work on a kitchen wagon. Commissary superintendent George Davis is overseeing every detail. In the menagerie department Louis Roth, principal trainer, and Mabel Stark, principal woman trainer, work the trained animals acts each day. The size of the tiger act is to be doubled, and the lion group will be nearly so. Austin King, in charge of ring stock and high school horses, is framing new stunts for the menage acts. Margaret Ricardo is doing work with the puma and lioness acts. Cico Franzee and Doc Webber, veterinarian, were married recently. William Peck, traffic manager, has returned from a tour of the North. Murray Pennock will again occupy the position of general agent. Al Butler, formerly of the Sells-Floto Circus, will be with the advance. - Boz. Billboard, February 23, 1918, p. 28.
Route. Al G. Barnes: Santa Monica, Cal., 15; San Pedro 16; San Diego 18-19; Anaheim 20; Los Angeles 21-23. Billboard, March 16, 1918, p. 50.
Al G. Barnes Big Four-Ring Wild Animal Circus. Al G. Barnes, manager; A. L. Sands, treasurer, legal adjuster; T. Stonehouse, secretary; Alfred F. Wolff, auditor; Murray A. Pennock, general agent; Wm. K. Peck, R. R. contractor; H. I. Ellis(?), local contractor; Al Butler, special agent, manager car No. 3; L. E. Smith, contracting press agent; Emma C. Miller, advance press agent; Rex de Rosselli, press agent back with show; Jack Heintz, excursion agent; Bobbie Fountain, manager sideshow; Bert Rickmann, equestrian director, announcer; James Babcock, general supt.; H. X. Clark, supt. privileges; Prof. Ed Woeckener, musical director; Nig. Dohbert, supt. reserved seat tickets; Frank Millard, supt. canvas; Al Goethke, trainmaster; George Dawson, boss hostler; George Davis, supt. commissary dept.; H. Kelly, supt. lights; Bob Hampton, supt. props; Jack Stewart, supt. ring stock; Austin R. King, supt. stock; Jim Bailey, 24-hour agent; Sid Rink, supt. elephants; Geo. Gibson, boss carpenter; Louis Roth, supt. animals; H. Sladon, blacksmith; W. J. Erikson, manager car No. 1; Frank W. Garrigus, manager car No. 2; Kid Mille, checker-up; Col. J. Cummings, manager concert. Thirty cars. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 64.
The Al G. Barnes Circus was in San Diego, Cal., March 18 and 19. In the side show were F. W. Blasser, known as "Frank, the Yankee Whittler," and May Blasser, his wife, the snake charmer. Colonel Cummings was in the Wild West after show with Black Beauty, his trained horse. Billboard, April 6, 1918, p. 28.
Al G. Barnes' Circus. The big feature is the opening pageant, depicting the bringing of animals from the jungles. The Conquest of Nyanza, the closing feature, is a "Royal Hunt," where elephants, camels, llamas, zebras and kangaroos are turned in upon the hippodrome track and give chase by Australian bushmen and jungle natives. The big acts are Mabel Stark in a wrestling match with a Bengal tiger; Thekla, maiden of mystery, from India, in charge of a group of lions; Grace Marvel, with her war elephants; Clarence Crosby, polar bear act; Martha Florine, leopards; Marguerite Riccardo, pumas; Stephen Batty, bears; Venus Fashon, posing and dancing horses; Alfred Powell, clown features, and a corps of assistants. Bert Rickman is gain the announcer. Bob Adare is on the front gate and entertaining the press. Bobby Fountain has the kid show. Billboard, April 27, 1918, p. 28.
Al G. Barnes' staff: Al G. Barnes, owner and general manager; A. L. Sands, assistant manager; Bob Bigsby, general superintendent; Wm. K. Peck, traffice manager; Murray Pennock, general agent; Alfred F. Wollf(?), auditor; T. Stonehouse, treasurer; James Stewart, contracting agent; Emma C. Miller,general press agent; Leon Agazelow, press agent; Robert Adair, press agent with the show; Frank Millard, boss canvasman; Eddie Stockton, assistant; John Logan, boss hostler; Fred Murray, assistant; Al Goethke, trainmaster; George Webb, assistant; Bert Rickman, equestrian director; Bob Thornton, assistant; Austin B. King, trainer and supt. of stock; Stephen Beatty, wild animal trainer and supt. of menagerie; Doc Edwin Webber, veterinary and wardrobe; Bob Hampton, boss property man; Horace White, assistant; George Davis, supt. commissary; Dick Dobbert, supt. privilege car; Ben Dobbert, supt. seats; St. Claire Giles, front door; Thomas Dawson and Colonel Cressy, big show ticket wagon; Sidney Ring, elephants; Harry X. Clark, supt. privileges; Charles Hott, privileges; Ed Brodie, supt. lights; B. Kelly, mechanical engineer; F. Naka, head porter; Frank Heintz, opposition agent; W. J. Errickson, manager advance car No. 1; Frank D. Garragus, advance car No. 2; William D. Paget, 24-hour man; Jack Lehmann, programs; Ralph P. Losey, timekeeper; Jack Franzius, purchasing agent. Billboard, May 11, 1918, p. 44.
Al G. Barnes advance. Advertising car No. 1 of the Al G. Barnes is in charge of Bill Erickson with the following men: F. Porter, boss billposter; J. O'Leary, lithographer; Brazil, Thompson, banner man; Redfield, Daily, Noonan, Gethen, Kenner, Sirham, Robinson, Howard, billposters; Harry Ross, porter. W. K. Peck is traffic manager and Murray Pennock general agent. On the No. 2 car: F. D. Garrigus, manager; Earl Totton, boss billposter; Walter McCorkell, lithographer; L. H. Dempster, programmer; Oscar Fisher, J. W. Carl, A. M. Wallen, Dave Brown, billposters; S. B. Douglas, porter and private secretary to Mr. Garrigus. Emma C. Miller is on ten-day press work, and Mr. Agazelow four days ahead on press specials. Billboard, May 11, 1918, p. 44.
Correct roster of Barnes Circus car No. 1: William Errichson, car manager; Mike Noonan, boss billposter; Brushes, Fred Redfield, Joe Keener, Eddie Syren, Ginger Huth, J. Daley, Tom Jones; Curly Thompson, banner squarer; Fred ___, assistant; Johnny Brassil, lithos; Jose Casey, assistant; Jimmy McVay, porter; George Degnon, local contractor. This makes the thirtieth year for Mr. Noonan on the front of the big ones. Billboard, May 25, 1918, p. 25.
The Al G. Barnes Circus is meeting success in Nevada and Utah. Venus Fashion, a feature, works a group of 30 lions. A wind leveled the big top at Reno. Ten miles out of Salt Lake City sparks from a passing freight set fire to the canvas covering the dog coaches. No great damage was done, and the dogs were all rescued. Barney, the baby elephant, is the hit of the show this year. Grace Marvel is scoring with her elephant, eight of them in a miniature battle scene. Johnnie Logan, boss hostler for the Al G. Barnes Circus and Hazel Hoxie, cowgirl with the Wild West concert of the same show, were married in Winnemuc, Nev. Robert Bigsby has joined the Al G. Barnes Circus as superintendent. Billboard, June 1, 1918, pp. 24, 26, 27.
Dallas, Tex., Oct. 16. The Al G. Barnes Circus brought its season to a close here Saturday owing to the spread of the Spanish influenza epidemic. The paraphernalia was shipped to winter quarters at Venice, Cal. The roster of advance car No. 1: William Erickson, car manager; Earl Totten, boss billposter; Fred Redfield, J. Daly, F. Ray, Al Turrell and Harry Glasscock, brushes; "Curly" Thompson and H. McMahon, banner men; Chas. Haugh, Max McNiel, S. B. Docks and Douglas Porter, lithographers. . . . Billboard, October 26, 1918, p. 56.
The Al G. Barnes Circus pulled into Dallas, Tex., October 13, to exhibit October 14, but Dallas was closed on account of influenza, so Al G. gathered his advance agents from various points of the State, and taking comfortable quarters in a regular Pullman, he himself advanced into Venice, Cal., and the troupe, in charge off manager Al Sands, made a six days' journey via El Paso, arriving in Venice October 30. . . . Emma C. Miller. Contracts will be let in a few days for the general work, under the direction of supt. R. J. Bigsbee. Doc Weber will supervise making all the costumes for the new "spec." Mr. Barnes will place some acts on the midway at Venice and send one to Cuba for a special engagement. Harry Clark will winter in Oakland. F. Pearly, boss canvasman, will go to Frisco, where he has a picture show. Vera Earle will play vaudeville. Mabel Stark, Margerta Ricardo, Martha Florine and others will remain in Venice for the winter. - Rex De Rosselli. Billboard, November 9, 1918, pp. 26, 52.
Venice, Cal., Dec. 13. Al G. Barnes and Abbott Kinney, the founder and "Doge" of Venice, have gone into the ranching business and are using large methods of cultivation. On a large tract of land adjacent to Venice, Barnes and Kinney can be seen daily, taking turns with each other riding on a string of plows behind six of the Al G. Barnes Circus elephants. Billboard, December 21, 1918, p. 36.
1919:
Venice, Cal., Feb. 5. The Al G. Barnes Trained Wild Animal Circus opens its 1919 season at Santa Monica, Cal., March 15. Superintendent R. S. Bigsby has had a crew busy all winter. Assistant manager Al Sands is daily at the training barns, repair shops, harness rooms, etc. W. K. Peck has not returned from the East as yet, his duties as traffic manager keeping him away. Murray Pennock, general agent is getting his advance lined up. W. J. Erickson is manager of car No. 1. Frank Cassiday, who finished the past season as contracting agent, will occupy the same position this year. Frank D. Garrigus is manager of advertising car No. 2. Emma C. Miller will be general press representative, same as in the past three season. "Dusty" Rhodes will do twenty-four hour work. W. M. Thompson is train master. Geo. Davis is steward. Harry Clark has charge of the candy stands. Alfred Wolffe will do the auditing of the show's funds and disbursements as in the past. Mrs. Thresa Stonehouse will be secretary and treasurer, as in former years. Rex Roselle wil be press agent back with the show this year. C. E. Childs will be on the front door. Bobby Fountain will have the sideshow and pit shows. Bert Rickman will be announcer and equestrian director. "Cheerful" Gardner will be manager of the menagerie. Martha Florine will handle leopards and a mixed group; Mabel Stark, tigers; Vera Earle, prima donna; Marguerite Ricardi, pumas; Mrs. Batty, lions; Bob Thornton, horses and pigs; Sidney Rink, elephants; Austin and Lucy King, Bert Dennis, Mrs. McCarthy and Babe Peterson. Others who will resume their old positions are Grace Marvel, Doc and Mrs. Weber. New animals have arrived, two cars of horses, three sacred cattle, zebras, llamas and two lions. - Emma C. Miller. Billboard, February 15, 1919, p. 30.
Al G. Barnes Wild Animal Circus opened at Santa Monica, Cal., March 20. The spectacle this year is Alice in Wonderland, a fairyland fantasy. Bessie Harvey, formerly of the San Carlos Opera Company, in the title role; Martha Florine as Alice, Mlle. Weber and forty dancing girls, as well as a chorus of 300 voices, and Eddie Woeckener and his military band of thirty pieces. James Morrow, for years announcer with the Barnes Show, is again with it. Bobby Fountain has the best sideshow material obtainable. Al Crooks and Austin King got hit by cupid, and now there is a Mrs. Crooks and Mrs. King. George Davis has the cookhouse. Kinko and Albert Powell do their clown numbers, and Mabel Stark wrestles a full-grown tiger. Martha Florine has and thirty lions in her act. This year the show has 110 wild animal features. - Rex De Rosselli. Billboard, April 12, 1919, p. 69.
Good weather, packed houses continue the rule for Al G. Barnes' Wild Animal Circus on the Coast. Robert Bigsby, superintendent, has invented new labor saving devices, so the show is always up and ready. Al G. Barnes comes to the front with new acts; this time with two herds of deer, trained to perfection. Mr. and Mrs. Bert Weldon are the trainers. Charles Boulware is packing them in at every concert. Red Flower is in charge of No. 2 sideshow. Charles Berry has increased his bear act to twenty. Every day Art Boden is the winner of some contest of riding or roping. George Giles is in charge of the privilege car. Frank Cassidy, contracting agent, and Murray Pennock and Boz are on the show at this writing. Colonel Cresson, in charge of the front door, was at one time a sky pilot. Alfred Wolfe is writing book called A Rock Is a Rock. - Rex de Rosselli. Billboard, May 3, 1919, p. 34.
San Francisco, April 29. The Al G. Barnes parade is made up principally of open dens, girl riders, cages and new harness and trappings. There are four bands in the parade, including the clown band. The opening of the big show centers on Alice in Jungleland. Pretty women, horses, savage looking men and wild and domestic animals comprise it. With bandmaster Edward A. Woeckener's opening fanfare, Alice (Martha Florine) is in the center arena as a little girl playing with her white Persian kitten. 'Mid the twittering of birds and strains of music, she falls asleep. Then her dream. A drop discloses the King of Jungleland (Jo Milelr) in grotesque costume, and the assembling fairies around the couch of the dreaming girl is the signal for the gathering of one of the most unique collections of wild animals, men and pretty girls. The entire top is filled with horses, llamas, sacred cattle, elephants, ponies, dogs, bears, zebras, deer, camels, dancing girls and made-up savages. Bessie Harvey, as the queen, mounted on the biggest elephant, sing with the band and leads several choruses carried by the whole company. James Morrow makes the announcements and assists equestrian director Robert Thornton in putting on the show.
Display No. 2, rings 1 and 3: military ponies, Charles Barry and Austin King; arena, five bear group, Robert Thornton. Display No. 3, Denver and Buster, hindleg ponies in walk around the track; King and Barry. Display No. 4: ring 1, trained sacred cattle, Sid Rink; arena, Cleo Webber, dancing in the lion's den; ring 3, trained llamas, Eddie Thomas; ends, Bert Dennis and Jo Miller with monkey acrobat on trapeze. Display No. 5: posing horses; ring 1, Austin King; arena, Mrs. Dopps; ring 3, Bert Dennis. Display No. 6: clowns, under the direction of Al Crooks and Kinko. Display No. 7: rings 1 and 2, Dennis and Miller, riding dogs; arena, female lion group, Charles Barry. Display No. 8: ring 1, four spotted Arabian liberty horses, Barry; ring 3, four liberty horses, Dennis; arena, trained ponies, King. Display No. 9: clown walkaround and police patrol number. Display No. 10: ring 1, performing elephants, Sid Rind; arena, "riding four," i.e., leopard, bear, dog and monkey, Bessie Harvey; ring 3, monkey principal rider, Dennis. Display 11: clown and elephant band. Display No. 12: rings 1 and 2, trained dog groups, King and Thornton. Display No. 13: arena, group of seven trained tigers worked by Mabel Stark, closing with wrestling a full-grown tiger, Rajah for two minutes. Display No. 14: high jumping dogs, rings 1 and 3. Display No. 15, high diving dogs and monkeys. Display No. 16: ring 1, riding dogs, Dennis; arena, riding hybrid, Margaret Ricardo; ring 3, acrobatic girls and elephants. Display No. 17: concert parade and announcement. Display No. 18: rings 1 and 3, groups of trained pigs, Dutch Marco and Robert Thornton; arena, trained seal lions, Captain Stonewall. Display No. 19, football elephants. Display No. 20: rings 1 and 3, revolving tables. Display No. 21: arena, lion riding elephant, Barry. Display No. 22: menage number, "Forty Dancing Girls and Dancing Horses. The usual menage numbers are introduced showing gaited animals and ending with a combination horse and girl ballet. Apparently the entire top is filled with riders and mounts. Display No. 23: King George, dancing horse in solo number, Austin King. Display No. 24: high jumping thorobreds, including a breast high jump by Bert Dennis on Sylvia, giving horse entire head and using no hands on bridle or reins. Display No. 25: Bessie Harvey mounted on snow white horse and singing while trained pigeons released from various parts of the tent flock to her head, hands and shoulders and to the neck and back of her horse. Display No. 26: rings 1 and 3, tiny pony and huge elephant, Ova Ashworth and Mrs. Doppa; arena, polar bear group, Charles Barry. Display No. 27: hippodrome track, "Rock-a-Bye, Baby," elephants carrying ponies slung from their mouths, Miss Ashworth and Mrs. Dopps. Display No. 28: ring 1, trained goats, Thornton; arena, the Weltons, with three trained Alaska deer; ring 3, January act, Dutch Marco. Display No. 29: "Pegasus number," flying horse and dog wagon on hippodrome track, Josephine Miller. Display No. 30: rings 1 and 3, trained camels, Sid Rink and Eddie Thomas; arena, wrestling bears, Charles Barry. Display No. 31: ring 1, boxing kangaroo, Andy Anderson; ring 3, war elephants, worked by Sid Ring and presented by Dolly Covera. Display No. 32: aerial ponies and girls, Sylvia and Verna Adair. Display No. 33: rings 1 and 3, performing elephants, Rink and Thomas; arena, three riding lions, Margaret Ricardo and Bob Thornton. Display No. 34: Sid Rink's hindlegg elephants parading hippodrome track. Display No. 35: group of twelve male African lions in arena, Martha Florine. Display No. 36: wild animal hunt in Nyanza, loose ostriches, kangaroos, camels, elephants, zebras, llamas, sacred cattle, horses and dogs, circling hippodrome track at full speed. Display No. 40: aerial fireworks lion, Mabel Stark. Display No. 41: "Uncle Sam," Austin King, Roman standing, driving ten horses at full gallop. American flag streamers cover the horses from the breasts of the leaders to the tails of the last pair. Star Spangled Banner. Exit.
The concert, under the direction of Charles Boulware, consists of fancy riding and roping by Art Boden and Chief Red Cloud, Indian War Dance, Kinko, contortionist; buck and wing dancing by Curtiss McIntyre, colored clown; boomerang throwing by Prince Omwah, Australian aborigine, and a Hawaiian dancing number by twelve hula girls. Staff: A. Sands, manager; __ Rigsby, superintendent; T. Stonehouse, treasurer; A. Wolff, auditor; Rex de Rosselli, press agent with the show; Ralph Losey, timekeeper; W. C. Workman, receiving clerk; Colonel James Cresson, front door; Tom (Skinny) Dawson, big show ticket wagon; Bobby Fountain, sideshow manager; Pearly Houser, boss canvasman; Jack Sword, boss hostler; N. M. (Egypt) Thompson, trainmaster; Bob Thornton, equestrian director; Sam Burgy, supt. ring stock and ponies; John West, boss property man; Pat Murphy, electrical engineer; Steve Roberts, boss canvasman, sideshow; Harry N. Clark, supt. privileges; C. S. Giles, manager privilege car; Charles Boulware, manager reserved seats and concert, and George Davis, supt. commissary. In advance are William K. Peck, traffic manager; Murray A. Pennock, general agent; Emma C. Miller, general press representative; Frank A. Cassidy, contracting agent; Dusty Rhodes, 24-hour man; William Erickson; manager advance car No. 1; Frank Garagus, manager advance car No. 2. Cheerful Gardner is in charge of menagerie with Eddie Trees as assistant.
Bobby Fountain's sideshow is a 100 foot roundtop with a thirty foot middle piece. The attractions: Bismarck Ferris, 20 piece jazz band and Creole Belles; Sunshine, xylophone artist (Mrs. Bobby Fountain); Paul Dusmukes, armless wonder; Simian Brothers, African albinos; Al Flosso, magic and Punch and Judy, also assists in lecturing; Mabel Gardner, performing cockatoos; Nettie, the Texas Fat Girl; Carmelita, the "Lady With the Marvelous Hair;" Tallo, giant, and Chimes, pickout pony; Frank Forest does inside lecturing and J. H. (Candy) Shelton and N. W. Adams are on the ticket boxes; Mrs. Elmer Workman and Dominick Rudello are in charge of the front door. Bobby Fountain's pit show is in charge of J. (Red) Fowler. J. L. Johnson is in charge of canvas. The attractions are Princess Littlemit (formerly Princess Marion), midget; Colonel Small, midget; Princess Tiny (Carr), illusionist and snake worker, and Prince Omwah, aboriginal magic and inside lecturer. Billboard, May 10, 1919, pp. 41, 84.
Al G. Barnes Circus. George A. Morales is again with the show in clown alley. He has just returned from France, where he was with Co. 46, Field Artillery. Kinko is producing clown with Al Crooks. Eugene Hall and Mrs. Hall have joined the Wild West concert. Attractions in the sideshow are Sunshine, the xylophone girl; Camalita, lady with the long hair; Al Flosso, boy wonder; Nettie, fat girl; Floretta's trained cockatoos; Mlle. Carman, snake enchantress, and Helen Adams and troupe of dancers. Tallo, the African giant; Prince Ludwig, Col. Small, Princess Tiny and family, lilliputians; Prince Ohwaw, Australian bushman, and Eko and Iko, the missing links are features in the annex. - Rex de Rosselli. Billboard, June 14, 1919, p. 47.
Miss Bessie Harvey (Mrs. Charles Barry), prima donna of the white tops, whose injury while with the Al G. Barnes Show in Portland, Ore., resulted in the amputation of her left arm, is doing nicely, at the hospital in that city. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 44.
Al G. Barnes Circus. A new calliope has been received from Nichols Brothers. Mabel Gardner, wife of Cheerful Gardner, is training some of the new stock. Bessie Harvey (Mrs. Charles Berry), arrived August 18. It will not be long before her beautiful voice will be heard again. Charles Berry is again working his lion act. The prize of $25 offered by Mr. Barnes for names for the new zebras was won by Donna Hannah. With the addition of the new stock the show has sixteen in its herd. The names all had to commence with Z. - Rex de Rosselli. Billboard, September 6, 1919, p. 44.
Al G. Barnes car No. 2: F. D. Garrigus, manager; C. O. Maxey, boss billposter; H. V. Gribble and Clarence Clark, lithographers; John Beugnot, Fred Webber, John Carl, Fred Johnson and Harry Meyers, billposters; L. R. Dempster and Oscar Nelson, programmers, and Clarence Haddon, porter. Billboard, September 13, 1919, p. 70.
"Egypt" Thompson and Margaret Ricardo, both of the Al G. Barnes Circus, were married in St. Louis, September 18. Billboard, October 4, 1919, p. 34.
Al G. Barnes Circus. A new offering is Marguerita Strickland in an iron jaw act. Gertrude Glenn, the dancing girl in the lions' cage is winning applause daily. Miss Glenn was a member of the Imperial Russian ballet, and has been engaged especially to dance in the opening spectacle and do her Russian dance in the lions' cage. - Rex de Rosselli. Billboard, November 8, 1919, p. 60.
The Al G. Barnes Circus will not go back to Venice, Cal., this winter. Arrangements have been made for quarters in Phoenix, Arix., where the show was slated to complete its tour November 15. Billboard, November 22, 1919, p. 54.
The Al G. Barnes Circus will not go back to Venice, Cal., this winter. Arrangements have been made for quarters in Phoenix, Ariz., where the show was slated to complete its tour November 15. Billboard, November 22, 1919, p. 54.
Al G. Barnes closed its season at Phoenix, Ariz. November 15. The Chamber of Commercie at Phoenix persuaded Mr. Barnes to winter his circus there, offering him the State fair grounds. All the fair buildings, ground and tracks are at the disposal of Mr. Barnes. Mr. Barnes will build a motion picture studio and start a company at once to make a wild animal feature. All of the circus employees were kept at Phoenix for this occasion. . . . Robert Bigsby will start at once to rebuild and refit the show. - Rex de Rosselli. Billboard, December 6, 1919, p. 54.
Phoenix, Ariz., Dec. 5. The day following the closing of the Al G. Barnes' Circus, Al G. Barnes left for the Pacific Coast to close up some business matters at his old winter quarters. During the winter season the show will be in charge of Al Sands, general maanger. . . . Billboard, December 13, 1919, p. 56.
More on the 1919 Al G. Barnes show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
• An article on the 1919-1920 Al G. Barnes' Wild Animal Circus is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1984, Vol. 28, No. 2, pp. 4-20.
1920:
Al G. Barnes Big Four Ring Wild Animal Circus: Al G. Barnes Circus, proprietors; Al G. Barnes, manager; A. L. Sands, assistant manager; J. W. Prinz, treasurer; Alfred E. Wolff, auditor; Murray A. Pennock, general agent; Wm. K. Peck, railroad contractor; E. B. Wiley, local contractor; Duke Mitchell, special agent; Fred Williams, contracting press agent; Tom Heeney, advance press agent; Rex de Roselli, press agent with show; E. C. Glines, excursion agent; Bobby Fountain, manager side show; Robert Thornton, equestrian director; Harry X. Clark, supt. privileges; Ed Woeckener, musical director; Bert Rickmann, supt. reserved seat tickets; W. J. Petterson, supt. canvas; Paul Barton, trainmaster; Jack Hickey, boss hostler; E.(?) Crofft, supt. commissary dept.; Bill Sounders, supt. lights; John Weet, supt. props; Abe King, supt. ring stock; E. Snyder, supt. stock; E.(?) Longyear, supt. working crew; Dusty Rhodes, 24-hour agent; Cheerful Gardner, supt. elephants and animals; Jas. Babcock, boss carpenter; John Baird, blacksmith; W. J. Erickson, manager advance car No. 1; Frank D. Garriges(?), manager advance car No. 2; F. Piper, checker-up; C. S. Giles, legal adjuster; Chas. Bulware, announcer; 31 cars. Opening at Phoenix, Ariz., February 28. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
1921: An article on the 1921 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1984, Vol. 28, No. 5, pp. 4-13.
1922: Articles on the 1922 Al G. Barnes Circus are in Bandwagon, July-August, 1973, Vol. 17, No. 4, pp. 23-26, and in Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, Vol. 29, No. 1, pp. 20-30.
1923:
Harry Myers, last season with the Al G. Barnes Wild Animal Circus, is wintering in his home town, Lima, Ohio. Mr. Myers will be back again this coming season on the Barnes Circus. New York Clipper, February 7, 1923, p. 22.
• An article on the 1923 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1985, Vol. 29, No. 3, pp. 12-19.
• An article on the 1924 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1985, Vol. 29, No. 5, pp. 4-13.
• An article on the 1925 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, Vol. 30, No. 1, pp. 18-25.
• An article on the 1926 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1986, Vol. 30, No. 4, pp. 12-18.
• An article on the 1927 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1986, Vol. 30, No. 6, pp. 50-56.
• An article on the 1928 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 2, pp. 4-12.
• An article on the 1929 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 6, pp. 4-13.
1935:
Show covered 14 states, making 167 stops with four in Arizona, 54 in California, seven in Colorado, four in Idaho, eleven in Michigan, eight in Montana, one in Nebraska, four in New Mexico, three in North Dakota, five in Oregon, one in Utah, seven in Washington, two in Wisconsin, three in Wyoming, and fifty-three in Canada. Bandwagon, August 15, 1945, Vol. 4, No. 4, p. 6.
• An article on the 1938 Al G. Barnes show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1982, Vol. 26, No. 3, pp. 12-16.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Barnett Bros. - 1928-29 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1928-1936, 1938-39, 1945
Ray W. Rogers, owner, framed his first circus, Barnett Bros., in Canada in 1928-29. In 1937 he titled the show Wallace Bros. In 1938-39 he again used the Barnett Bros. title. In September 1945 he leased the Barnett Bros. title to the Bradley & Benson Circus, a show owned by Clarence Walters, Ernie White and Jimmy Bagwell.
The 1928-29 Barnett Bros. show is online in Bandwagon, May-Jun 1974
Bandwagon articles:
The 1930-33 shows in Bandwagon, July-August, 1974, Vol. 18, No. 4, pp. 17-26.
The 1934-36 shows in Bandwagon, September-October, 1974, Vol. 18, No. 5, pp. 4-15.
The 1938-39 shows in Bandwagon, January-February, 1975, Vol. 19, No. 1, pp. 4-13.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Barber's Circus - 1888-89 Show is listed for 1888 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
1888: People engaged for Orrin Barber's Circus, which opens its season in Canton, O., at an early date, under the management of Jas. R. Adams. Business staff: Orrin Barber, proprietor; Jas. R. Adams, manager; Louis Burgeois, treasurer; C. F. Miller, general agent; Edward Everett, press agent, and Harry Fisher, programmers. Circus chiefs: B. Baxter, billposter; Max Fleming, assistant; Charles Reddy, properties; C. H. Adams, steward; Dell Bursh(?), canvasman; Henry Wixon, hostler; Perry Zerbe, lights; and Harry Parks and wife, culinary department. Performers: The Mazzantina Brothers; Charles Witman(?), Bigelow Brothers, Blanch LeClair, Ament and Nicholson, Sig. Malo(?), Nubar Hassan and his Arab tribe, Prof. May, Frank W. Marten(?), George Eyster, the Nelson Sisters, J. T. Carrier, Texas Bill and wife Texas Winnie, the Fraziers, (Funny) Js. R. Adams, Louise Hasson(?), Clara Marion, Aug. Harris, Tommy Malo, Lester and Allen, T. McMasters, the Aments, and Prof. A. Hertchert and his band of twelve musicians. New York Clipper, April 7, 1888, p. 63.
1888: The sideshow people with Orrin Barber's Circus, which opens the season at Canton, O., April 27, includes: B. L. Bowman, manager; Nina Delmonto, snake charmer; Prof. Wm. Young, wizard; Miss Agness, mind reader and magician; Prof. Howard, Punch and Judy, and Bowman's Museum of Wonders. James R. Adams, the clown and manager was compelled to decline the benefit tendered him by his Canton friends, on account of being so busy preparing for the opening of the show. New York Clipper, April 7, 1888, p. 56.
1888: Barber's circus appeared here last Thursday. The tumbling, leaping and trapeze performers were of the highest order. The Melvins, Will and Harry, constitute no small factor in the talent making Barber's one of the best shows on the road. Ohio Democrat (New Philadelphia, OH), May 17, 1888, n.p.n.
1889: W. Norris Adams, of Youngstown, has purchased the stock of the defunct Orrin Barber circus. Massillon Independent (Massillon, OH), January 11, 1889, n.p.n.
1889: The Orrin Barber circus is getting ready to disturb the public, at Beach City. Massillon Independent (Massillon, OH), April 25, 1889, n.p.n.
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Barbour Circus - 1924
While the Barbour circus, which recently exhibited at Cuba [New York], unheralded by any advertising, was en route to Franklinville, a lion cage fell off its wagon, pinning one of the circus men underneath. He escaped with little injury, however. The show originated at Reading, Pa., and follows the oldtime custom of travelling in horsedrawn vehicles. Patriot and Free Press (Cuba, NY), August 1, 1924, p. 3.
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Bard Bros. Circus - 1903-05, 1908 Show is listed for 1902-05 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Wanted, for the Bard Bros.'s Railroad Shows, a few more circus people, a basso and 2 cornets for band. Would like to hear from a man to make announcements, a dog and pony show, a lady aerial artist, and a bar performer. Will also buy a few good Pan lights. Address Bard Bros., Reading, Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, May 2, 1903, p. 295.
1903: Reading, Pa. Bard Bros. Circus exhibited here to large and pleased audiences for ten days. The Bard's, five in number, are natives of Reading, which accounts for their long stay. They have a good one-ring show and are meeting with success. Billboard, August 29, 1903, p. 27.
1904: Frank D. Merst, bandmaster, has been engaged to lead the band with the Bard Bros. show for the coming season. This show is to be three times as large as last year. It opens at Reading, Pa., early in April. Billboard, February 27, 1904, p. 6.
1904: Berwick, May 11. When the large tent of Bard Brothers' circus was blown over near the close of the performance here last night, 400 persons in the audience became panic stricken and fought to get out. No one was seriously injured. Lock Haven Express (Lock Haven, PA), May 11, 1904, p. 1.
1905: In Aldermanic Courts. Constable Sparely made three attachments for wages against Edward, Chas., John and Harry Bard, proprietors of Bard Bros.'s Circus. They were issued by Alderman Mast. William Ramach, Jacob Kaplin and John Silbar brought the actions. They were employed by the firm in different capacities, and claim sums ranging from $7 to $10 as wages. They decalred that they made several requests for the money due them, but were refused it. Constable also served warrants, issued by the same alderman, on Edward and Charles Bard on the charge of assault and battery. John Silbar, a former employee, is the prosecutor, and alleges that the accused assaulted him without any provocation. The defendant entered bail for court. Reading Eagle (Reading, PA), July 2, 1905, n.p.n.
1908: Winter quarters. Bard Bros., Reading, Pa. Billboard, March 7, 1908, p. 23.
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Bardon & Doss Circus - 1929 Show is listed for 1930 both in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and Sturtevant's List of Circuses
Shade Theatre. Today. Bardon & Doss Mammoth Indoor Circus, ponies, monkeys, dogs. [Advertisement] Sandusky Register (Sandusky, OH), January 1, 1929, p. 2. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Barker Bros. Circus - 1899, 1937-38, 1951 Show is listed for 1937-1940, 1950-53 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Ohio. Portsmouth. John Williams, stage manager of the Grand, has resigned to join J. W. Kilgour and Barker Brothers' Circus, a local show that will open here 27. New York Dramatic Mirror, April 22, 1899, p. 7.
1937: Barker Bros. Society Circus. 20 people, 40 animals, a real indoor circus with clowns, trained animals, acrobats and a real circus band. Wells Bros. Trio, horizontal bar act, late of Cole Bros.-Clyde Beatty Circus. Eva Kelley, flying trapeze; Blomberg's Alaskan dogs; 4 military ponies; Bobby Bumps, thrills and spills, clowns and more clown; Dynamit, comedy bucking mule; Cowboy Zwick, Slim Morgan and Perky Skidmore. Troop of Alley Dogs. Monkeys, ponies. [Advertisement] Piqua Daily Call (Piqua, OH), March 12, 1937, p. 2.
1938: The entire personnel of Barker Brothers wild west and circus features will be presented at West Virginia's free fair Thursday, evenings and afternoons in front of the grandstand. Cowgirls, cowboys, circus performrs, clowns, horses, dogs, ponies, steers and a troupe fo Alaska huskie dogs are part of this miniature circus shown for the first time in this territory. Wild steer and horse riding is included in the program, rounded out with a panorama of old west using covered wagons, Indians and a scene depicting the Meadow Mountain massacure as produced in the old 101 Ranch show. While Dixie Prince the mind reading, hind leg walking high school horses, and the troupe of Alaskan huskies are two of the star attractions. Funny clowns, military pony drills, comical monkeys, roping and trick shoot acts. Barker Brothers show is presented in circus fashion in ring curb on the stage. The entire show is presented by the owner, who works more like the old time ringmaster. Charleston Gazette, September 4, 1938, n.p.n.
1951: Bill Blomberg, owner of Barker Bros.' Circus, stopped in St. Louis Thursday (22) enroute from Chicago to his show's quarters at Alexandria, La. Billboard, March 31, 1951, p. 56.
1951: Augusta, Ill., July 28. William (Big Bill) Blomberg, dog and horse trainer and operator of Barker Bros.' Circus, died at the fairgrounds here Friday(20). Funeral services were conducted at St. Peter, Minn., Tuesday (24). Blomberg traveled the Orpheum and other vaudeville circuits many years with a dog act. Later he had liberty horses on a number of circuses and in recent years has been associated largely with indoor shows. He was with Ward Bros.' Circus until it closed early last year, and was instrumental in forming a cooperative show among former Ward personnel. Subsequently, he took over that show, Barker Bros., and this season had it booked for fairs as well as independent dates. He is survived by his widow, who was in Alexandria, La., the shows's quarters, when he died. Billboard, August 4, 1951, p. 43. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
E. P. Barlow's - 1900-01, 1903, 1909, 1911-12 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1912
1900: Began the season at Syracuse, Indiana, April 28. Route, Indiana: New Paris, April 30; Benton, May 1; N. Webster, May 2; Cromwell, May 3; Wawaka, May 4; Wolcottville, May 5. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6.
1900: George H. Wyman, of Grand Rapids, Mich., will have charge of the advance of Ed. P. Barlow's Show. W. D. McIntire has been re-engaged as a talking and singing clown; Jesse Saurs and wife, contortionists and acrobats; Barlow Sisters, Edna and Emma, statuary and lightining change artists, are among the people who will be with this show the coming season. Billboard, December 29, 1900.
1901: Notes from Barlow's Refined Show. We opened at Syracuse, Ind., May 8, and nothwithstanding the heavy rain, the capacity of the tent was tested. Ed P. Barlow is owner and manager, Mrs. Ed P. Barlow, treasurer. The performance went like clock work under the direction of Billy Weaver, the equestrian. We carry twenty people all told. Harry Miller, leader of orchestra; Barlow Sisters, statuary; Mrs. Barlow, troupe of dogs and goats; Stella Weaver, comic and sentimental songs; Church and Booth, double traps and brother act; R. Edward, clown; Rouen(?) Bros., loop walkers and aerialists; the Herberts, sketch artists; Billy Weaver, club juggling and baton spinning. George Wyman, general agent. Our route will be through Indiana and Ohio. New York Clipper, June 8, 1901, p. 315.
1903: Notes from the Great Barlow Show. We are on our second week under canvas and are playing to fine business. Roster: Arthur Howe, Geo. H. Wymann, Frank Decker, Edna Barlow, Elma Barlow and Ed P. Barlow. We have two trained Shetland ponies, six dogs and bucking bronchos. Orchestra: Frank Girard, Guy Fahlor and Etta Lease. Hostlers: Frank Shidler and Leon Nelson. Property man, E. D. Bentz. Ed P. Barlow, manager; Ella M. Barlow, treasurer; Edna Barlow, privilegs and cashier. New York Clipper, May 23, 1903, p. 302.
1909: Ed P. Barlow Show: Ed P. Barlow, proprietor; Elk Barlow, assistant manager; Frank Wilson, general agent; Edna Barlow, treasurer; Frank Decker, equestrian director; Elmer Gilmore, supt. canvas; E. W. Myers, supt. animals; E. P. Barlow, supt. privileges; James Wiley, supt. stock. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1909: The Barlow Show, after touring the states of Indiana, Ohio, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi, Tennessee, Kentucky and Nebraska, closed a season of seventy-nine weeks at Tobias, Neb. The trip furnished plenty of hardships, but the saddest was the death of Edna Barlow, daughter of Ed. P. Barlow, owner of the show. On August 12, she was taken ill with typhoid fever, and confined to the hospital at Macomb, Ill. She died on September 9, her body shipped to South Milford, the home of the Barlows, for burial. Arthur Howe, son-in-law of Ed. P. Barlow, who has been with Campbell Bros. Show this season, went to Hubbell, Neb., November 7, and accepted one-half interest in the Barlow Show. Mr. Howe's wife is now the only living child of Mr. Barlow. Howe will play dates this winter, while Barlow and some of the old standbys will be engaged in fitting up the show for next season. New features will be added, and a complete little wagon show, carrying twenty-five head of stock, sixteen dogs and six trained ponies will take to the road next season. Billboard, November 20, 1909, p. 18.
1911: Howe and Barlow have returned to their home at South Milford, Ind., where they are preparing to go with the Barlow Dog and Pony Show, which opens April 29. Mr. Howe is assistant manager, and Ed P. Barlow, sole owner. Billboard, April 15, 1911, p. 31.
1912: E. P. Barlow Show. Ed. P. Barlow, proprietor and manager; Ella M. Barlow, treasurer; George Stoffer, general agent; Jack Sulley, equestrian director; Ed. P. Barlow, general supt.; Felix Sauchus, musical director; John Pressler, supt. canvas; Ed Long, boss hostler; Elmer Gilmir, supt. lights; Bill Loveland, supt. properties; Ed Long, supt. ring stock; E. P. Barlow, slupt. stock; John Pressler, supt. working crew; Elmer Gillmir, boss carpenter; Ella Barlow, checker-up; Ed P. Barlow, legal adjuster and announcer. Show opens at South Milford, Ind., April 27. Billboard, March 23, 1912, p. 97.
1914: Ed P. Barlow, of the Barlow Show, writes: "At the present writing I am suffering with an attack of rheumatism . . . I haven't decided definitely whether I will go out or not this season, but if I do, I will only have a small outfit, making three day or week stand." Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 24.
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Barnard Bros. Circus - 1933-34, 1946
1933: The Barnard Bros. circus and Wild West will appear on the Gordon lot Monday. Madam Barnard and her troupe of trained bears feature the show with the following attractions: Frank Trudell's pole climbing dog, Ardetn Bede's educated ponies, Johnny Kramer's trained goats and monkeys. Del Rio troupe of acrobats, the Flying Trudells and Ken and his clown. Circleville Herald (Circleville, OH), May 27, 1933, n.p.n.
1934: Camden Notes. The Barnard Brothers circus and Wild West show attracted a large crowd Saturday evening. Hamilton Journal (Hamilton, OH), July 17, 1934, p. 2.
1946: Barnard Bros. Circus (motorized) opened early in May at Etta, Ohio. White Tops, March-April, 1946, Vol. 19, Nos. 3-4, p. 9.
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Barnes' Trained Animal - 1901
Sutton's Family Theater, Butte, Mont., Dick P. Sutton, manager. Week commencing Nov. 3d. Barnes' Famous Trained Animal and Vaudeville Circus. The greatest acrobats, gymnasts, athletes. Beautiful ponies and dogs. [Advertisement] Anaconda Standard (Anaconda, MT), October 30, 1901, n.p.n.
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Barnes & Daily Famous Circus - 1974 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1974
Jim Silverlake, Marlyn Silverlake, owners. The were to have five trucks, horses, ponies, elephant Babe, and a llama. Big top, 90 x 60 ft. with seating for 1,000. Staff: Jim Silverlake, owner; Billy Griffin, manager; Marlyn Silverlake, secretary and treasurer; Jim Windland, sideshow; Bobby Grene, musical director; Jim Silverlake, agent. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 49, 1973, p. 3; Vol. 2, Nos. 51-52, 1973, p. 1. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Barney Bros. - 1919
The 1919 Barney Bros. Trained Animal Shows was owned by H. Barney and J. D. Barney. The Barnes Bros. title was used again in 1926, and revived by Tom Atkinson on a truck show 1935-38. Bandwagon, September-October, 1982, Vol. 26, No. 5, p. 25. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Barney Bros. - 1937 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1926, 1934-38
John D. Foss, owner. Good business in Oklahoma. Quarters are in El Paso. Billboard, January 2, 1937, p. 37; October 2, 1937, p. 36; December 4, 1937, p. 38. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Barney Bros. - 1956
Information on the Barney Bros. 1956 show, in the King Show article, is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1962 (scroll down or use find).
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Barnum & Bailey - 1910
Harry La Pearl sends the following account of recent events with the show: Lima, O., July 11 - A short journey of fifty-eight miles brought us in early, and everybody spent a pleasant day taking in the shows and the park. Here we received the new big top. The Buffalo Bill Show was here the day before, but it did not affect our business any. Art. Jarvis took a run into Toledo to visit his relatives.
Van Wert. O., - A small town, but business was very good in the afternoon. Between shows, . . . a very bad looking storm came up. and in less than three minutes every trunk in the dressing room was packed, and everyone was out of the tent. The storm passed without any wind, but a very heavy rain fell. In spite of bad weather we had an exceptionally good night house. One of the natives looked at the new top, and said he wondered why they didn't wash the rest of the tents.
Ft. Wayne, Ind., 13. - Business was very good. A very warm day.
Anderson, Ind., 14. - Another dry town. Jimmy Wuvall's new trunk arrived and was greeted with cheers from the boys of the dressing room. Jim says that this is the first new trunk he has bought in twenty years, and he feels very proud of the article. Eddie Polo, one of the catchers in the Siegrist-Silbon Troupe, was struck in the mouth while catching a two and one-half and lost five teeth and received a bad cut on his upper lip, but he never missed a performance.
Marion. Ind., 15. - Walter Shannon, owner of the Norrls & Rowe Show, visited us here and met his many friends with the show. A very hot day, and during the night performance a heavy rain. Dry town.
Elkhart, Ind., 16. - Another very hot day, also a dry town. Business was very good in the afternoon and fair at night. There is a new club, called the Baldhead Club, and in order to join all that is necessary is to have your head shaved. Eddie Silbon did a triple, and whipped off. Quite a few are on the sick list, as the weather is so warm and the water bad. Bert Wallace, wardrobe man, has received very sad news, as his eight months old son died in Bridgeport, Conn., July 1?, at 10.30 A. M. Everybody around the show feels very badly about it, as he was a beautiful baby. Mr. and Mrs. Wallace have everybody's sympathy. Many of the people will take a run into Chicago to see their friends and relatives. Jack Correlli is seen quite often making new clown props. Sylvia Devirne, daughter of Russell and Devirne, was on to visit her father and mother for a few days. Mrs. Fred Egner has been on to visit her husband for the past week. New York Clipper, July 23, 1910, p. 582. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
S. H. Barrett's - 1881, 1885 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1881-87
1881: S. H. Barrett & Co.'s Great Pacific Circus and Menagerie is now organizing for next season. Lewis Sells is the manager, and he announces the show as one of more than ordinary size and attractiveness. New York Clipper, November 26, 1881, p. 587.
• Information on the 1883 S. H. Barrett show in in Bandwagon, November-December, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 6, pp. 73-76.
1885: [Advertisement] S. H. Barrett's New United Railroad Shows, Triple Circus, World's Menagerie, Museum of Living Wonders, Elevated Stage and Grand Racing Carnival. At Reno, June 24. 200 star performers. James Robinson, emperor of equestrians. Miss Emma Lake, queen of the side-saddle. Melrose troupe of bicyclists. Miss Pollie Lee, with her flying steeds and jugglery. Robert Stickney, master of the horse, general athlete, versatile performer. Prince Ko-Kin-Seg-A-Wao and a Royal Japanese circus of twenty troupes. Brazil Brothers. Andy Sweeney. Macart Family. Frank Ashton. Leopold Brothers, Zurella and Du Bois. Ab-Dul-El-Herr, wonder of the Orient, in fearless riding, leaping and tumbling, and his All-Star Circus. Mammoth menagerie contains countless cages of living wild animals. Zebras, hyenas, giraffes, elands, camels, dromedaries. Elephants in harness. Huge hippopotamus, coal black African tigers, two-horned Sumatrian rhinoceros. Grand street pageant with 8 bands, golden chariots, golden cages, knights, ladied, &c. . . . Reno Evening Gazette (Reno, NV), June 8, 1885, p. 1.
• Information on the 1885 S. H. Barrett show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 6, pp. 77-78.
• Information on the 1887 S. H. Barrett show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 3, pp. 38-46.
Sheldon H. Barrett died in Boston, Massachusetts on May 16, 1900. Bandwagon, November-December, 2000, Vol. 44, No. 6, p. 5.
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S. L. Barrett & Co.
• Information on the proposed 1898 S. L. Barrett & Co.'s Show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1998, Vol. 42, No. 4, p. 31.
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Barry & Co.'s - 1879
Specialty people are wanted for a circus, to take the road May 1. Jugglers, trapezists, bar performers, leapers, tumblers, etc. The privileges are for sale. Also wanted, for Barry & Co.'s Great Western Equescurriculum and Hippotheatron, two minstrel men that can work in ring. Address, Independence, Kansas. New York Clipper, April 26, 1879, p. 40.
Barry & Co.'s Great Western Equescurriculum and World's Congress of Stars: Barry & Co., proprietors; A. D. Swan, manager; F. M. Wetzel, treasurer; Andy Spear, equestrian director; Prof. Chas. Swan, leader of Silver Cornet Band; James T. Johnson, agent; D. A. Kennedy, master of circle. The concert people are Johnny Smith, Billy Hughes, Mrs. Mattie Spear, Little Francis, Andy Spear, D. A. Kennedy and Tony Blair. G. Metz, boss of canvas; J. Ashley, boss of horses; Risely, Moran and Harlan, past brigade. Each day there will be two outside attractions, a tight rope ascension and a balloon race. The show run their own privileges. Route, Kansas, Iowa. New York Clipper, May 10, 1879, p. 55.
C. P. Stebleton, horizontal bar, acrobat, dancing barrel, cross and twisting somersault, is open for the Fall and Winter, either for circuses or variety halls. Late of Barry & Co.'s Circus. Address C. P. Stebleton, Peru, Ind. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, August 23, 1879, p. 171.
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Barry’s Circus - 1898-89 May be J. M. Barry's
Kansas City, Missouri. Frank Rosenthal will take out a side show with Barry's Circus this season, starting from Carbondale, Kansas, early in May. New York Clipper, January 29, 1898, p. 791.
De Castro and wife have just closed a twelve weeks' engagement with the Petersburg, Ill. Winter Circus. They have signed with Barry's Circus for the Summer, their fourth year with that show. New York Clipper, March 16, 1889, p. 4.
Five of the employees of Barry's circus which is stranded here, were taken in and fed last night by John T. Robertson, the grocer, who learned of their destitution. The men were here without a cent of money and yesterday had only two loaves of bread for their three meals. Middletown Daily Press (Middletown, NY), May 28, 1889, n.p.n.
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J. M. Barry’s Great American Circus - 1893
A newspaper review of J. M. Barry’s Great American Circus is in the Scranton, Kansas Gazette, May 5, 1893. “The Great American Circus has come, done it, and gone.” "James T. Johnson and the Great Western Circus," Orin C. King, Bandwagon, Vol. 30, No. 5 (Sep-Oct), 1986, p. 20.
Barry's occupation in 1892 is not known, but we do know that he had bought property in Carbondale and moved there in 1891. On Saturday, April 29, 1893, Barry's Great American Circus, Museum and Menagerie opened the season in Carbondale. Monday, June 19, the show exhibited at Mulvane, and the next day, Tuesday, June 20, at Belle Plaine. The Belle Plaine News reported, "Well, the 'Great American Circus' has come and gone. Our knowledge of shows is limited, but we should judge that Mr. Barry has a good, clean show, well worth the price of admission. He exhibited here to a fair sized audience." Nothing more is known. King, Orin C., The Circus World of Willie Sells, Topeka, KS: Shawnee County Historical Society, 1983, pp. 63-64.
• Information on the 1893 J. M. Barry Great American circus is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 1, pp. 41-43.
• Information on the 1894 J. M. Barry Great American circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 4, pp. 34-36.
• Information on the 1895 J. M. Barry Great American circus is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1995, Vol. 39, No. 2, pp. 36.
• Information on the 1896 J. M. Barry Great American circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1995, Vol. 39, No. 6, pp. 69-71.
• Information on the 1897 J. M. Barry Great American circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1997, Vol. 41, No. 4, pp. 40-41.
• Information on the 1898 J. M. Barry's Great American circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1998, Vol. 42, No. 4, pp. 31-32.
Note: also see W. L. Cole's, Sieber & Cole.
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Barry Bros. Circus - 1932, 1949 Show is listed for 1932, 1949 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Hempstead, L. I., last year the Barry Brothers' Circus, a little one-ringed affair . . . Brooklyn Eagle (Brooklyn, NY), May 14, 1933, Junior Section, p. 2.
Van Nuys, Calif, July 30. Barry Bros.' Circus did okay business here on a three-day stand auspiced by the Optimists' Club. Show was produced by Forest Freeland. Ross Clark was the director, announcer and equestrian director; Vernon Colbert, producing clown, and Mel Ardick fronted a six piece band. Acts included Loretta's dogs; Anita, web; the Three Maxello Sistesr, tumbling; Bill Dietrich's ponies; Archie Mayo's horse, Pansy; the Olveros, perch; the Titians, hand balancing; the Maxellos, acro and Risley, and Learmant's elephants and ponies, worked by Eddie Allen. Yakima Jack was in charge of the sideshow which featured Winny Herrsley, bird girl. Billboard, August 6, 1949, p. 56.
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Bartholomew & Co's Pacific Circus - 1856
Bartholomew & Co.'s Pacific Circus. After a series of successes (in the Southern Mines) unprecedented in the annals of Equestrianism, this talented troupe, embracing among them the elite of the profession, will remain three days on the Public Square, commencing on Monday, July 28th, giving a series of their unique and classical entertainments, with acts of equestrianism, corporeal and gymnastic acrobatic devices, corpuscular efforts, all selected with care by the artists of this establishment from the schools of England, France, Germany and Italy. 50,000 persons have visited the representations of this company since its organization. The ring will be carpeted during the performances. The entire troupe of artists will give a change in each representation during their stay. Admission — Dress Circle, $2; Boxes, $1; Pit, __. Attentive ushers always in attendance. Also an efficient Police. R. M. Allison, Agent. We understand from Mr. Allison, the agent, that the Pacific Circus are en route for San Francisco, via Baker's Valley, Suisun City, Napa, Vallejo, Benicia, Martinez and Oakland — and will exhibit in San Francisco about the 7th of August. Sacramento Daily Union, July 29, 1856, p. 3.
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Bartholomew’s Circus - 1891
1891:
Dan Bartholomew’s Circus opened its season at Salt Lake City May 2. . . . Two weeks were played there. This circus tours the inter-mountain region every Summer, to good success. As this country is rarely or never visited by the big shows, this one has a fine field. H. Burton is the manager. It opened with the following people: Mazuz and Abacco, Dare Bros., Wilson Bros., El Dino Dinei, Lamontz, Mono del Vago, G. Rice, D. Bartholomew and Tom Conklin. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891.
Salt Lake City, Utah. Bartholomew's Circus had a good week's business beginning 4. The show will remain here till 17. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 183.
Salt Lake City, Utah. Dan Bartholomew's Circus closed its engagement her 1?. After spending six or eight weeks in Utah towns, another engagement of two weeks will be played at Salt Lake. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 201.
Salt Lake City, Utah. D. M. Bartholomew's Equescurriculum is again with us. Business so far this season has been ___ to cold weather. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
Also see Dan Bartholomew entry in Slout's Olympians on this website.
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Bartholomew's Equine Paradox - 1885-88, 1892 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1880-1890
1885: Show opens in Ft. Wayne on September 7. Show had big crowds in Peoria, Illinois, nine performances. Show was attached at Lafayett, Indiana for breech of contract. New York Clipper, September 12, 1885, p. 407; October 10, 1885, p. 467, 469.
1886: Show is snowbound in Iowa. Good business at Foster's opera house, January 4-9, at Des Moines, Iowa. Last stage performance will be at Bloomington, Illinois, March 1-6. New York Clipper, January 16, 1886, p. 690; January 23, 1886, p. 708; February 20, 1886, p. 772.
1887: Good business at Los Angeles, California, week of July 25. Jay Rial is manager. Show is back from its Mexican tour, at Pueblo, Colorado October 13. W. H. Maxwell has rejoined as musical director. Albert Zorate is in the advance. New York Clipper, August 13, 1887, p. 341; October 29, 1887, p. 520; December 17, 1887, pp. 634, 637.
1888: Jay Rial went to Mexico with the show. Geo. W. Lederer has assumed the management of the company. Will open May 1 in New York City. M. B. Leavitt's 40 week's contract closes at New Orleans on April 15. Show's largest business was in Mexico. Will L. Fursman and wife, Nancie, are with the show. At Wilmington, Delaware, J. D. Mishler, new manager, contracts with Jackson-Sharp Co. for a large combination car to carry the horses. New York Clipper, January 21, 1888, p. 716, 718; March 31, 1888, pp. 40, 47; April 7, 1888, p. 54.
1892: The two new cars used to transport Bartholomew's Equine Paradox are complete. The palace car is seventy feet long, and is fitted with solid bronze rails and nickel gates. The body is painted Pullman color with gold lettering. The platforms are flush, making an observation apartment on each end. The interior is finished in hand carved mahogany, and consists of kitchen, dining room, reception room and two separate sleeping apartments, and is indeed a palace on wheels. A separate apartment has been fitted up for the band which accompanies the show. The palace care will be occupied by Prof. Bartholomew, manager Albert and his wife. A porter and cook complete the occupants of this car. The horse car, 7?ft. long, has also been remodeled, and is painted in Pullman color. Each horse has a bay window with his name in silfer(?). A fine portrait in oil on canvas, life size, of the Professor, adorns each side of the car. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 424.
• Brief information on the 1896 Bartholomew's Equine Paradox is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 1, p. 49.
Note: In an 1893 advertisement, Bartholomew's Equine Paradox was advertising for a band. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 340. Also see George Bartholomew entry in Slout's Olympians on this website.
1883: Professor George Bartholomew was born on the farm of his father, Noah W. Bartholomew, May 14, 1833, in Erie country, N.Y. His father achived a reputation as a subduer of fractious animals, and to this bent of mind was due, no doubt, the life labor and achievement of his son George, who at a very early age, gave evidence of great power and marked genius in the handling of all kinds of domestic animals. In 1836, his father moved with the family to Jackson, Michigan. The climate not agreeing with his
father's health, the family some years after moved to Missouri. Not finding horses here of sufficient obstinacy and wildness, George left his parental roof and started, in 1848, for Lower California, where the wild horse roamed in all his freedom. He finally arrived at San Jose during the great gold craze, which for several years diverted his mind to mining, though the horse was always the subject of much thought. After leaving the mine he farmed for three
years, and during this time his ambition to make his mark in the arena first developed itself. Among the numerous incredible accomplishments with horses, the educating of "Young America," in 1855, the best performing horse ever in that section of the country, was the professor's first prominent success, and
for whom he refused $10,000. The animal was poisoned by a discharged groom in i860.
In Denver, Colorado, in 1871, he bought Bravo and Boneto, and later Piccaninni, Flora and Kitty. In 1873 Cupid. In 1874 Nioquich, from a noted Indian Chief. Nettle, the famous leaper, he purchased of Mr. Frank D. McClure, of Denver. These are the principals of the the horses known as the Bronchos, which have elicited the wonder and admiration of millions during their exhibition in America (now being presented at the Aquarium in London). This was his first and the only school of horses presented in the world up to this time.
In 1875 he disposed of the Broncho horses on the instalment plan, and through premeditated fraud lost them after exhibiting them for five weeks in St. Louis to large audiences. This left him penniless; but nothing daunted, he broke horses and did the best he could in St. Louis until he was able to return to Oakland, California, where he continued the love of his life, the subduing and educating of horses, and by strict economy accumulated sufficient money to purchase from time to time ten horses, and on July 4, 1879 he gave their first public exhibition in a garden in Oakland to an audience of over 10,000 persons, a memorable event in the professor's life, and the turning point of his long cherished and hard
worked for desires. This was the beginning of the famous Equine Paradox, now consisting of sixteen horses that do everything but talk and they do that in their own way, comprehensible to the audience. A description of their intelligent action and marvelous doings would seem incredible. All their actions are by word of command. They understand over three hundred different commands,comprising a vocabulary
of over fourteen hundred words. The entertainment
is of such a character as to confuse, startle, perplex and break up all existing ideas as to the docility of the horse. Professor Bartholomew's system of horse education has revealed heretofore unthought of equine sagacity and has been of incalculable good in causing the better treatment of that noble animal by all who have been fortunate enough to see them. He has achieved great fame and is received everywhere with marked attention by leading humane people, who have presented him with many tokens of regard and appreciation.
In 1880 he left Oakland, California, for Chicago
and the East, and the marvelous exhibition has been presented since in the leading theatres of the principal cities with extraordinary success. Their longest stay this season was in Boston, where one hundred and twelve exhibitions were given in three months to one hundred and twenty-one thousand two hundred and nine persons. There is no other indoor entertainment that is favored with the same patronage. In Boston he was presented by friends with a horse of diamonds and a horseshoe and whip studded with diamonds. On the one hundredth performance his managers, John D. Mishler and Capt. J. E. Comstock, presented him with a twenty-four karat solitaire diamond ring. The present season will close June 16. He will spend the Summer at Newport, and, during the vacation, will add two more horses and introduce features even more wonderful than those now presented. His next season opens in Philadelphia in September; after which they will be presented in New York. The professor has educated more horses for exhibition and tamed more for general purposes than any other man in the world. He height of his ambition and the pride of his life have been his educated animals and to present them to the public. He organized and conducted, at different times, seven circuses, with which he travelled all over the Pacific Coast.
He is an agile acrobat, tight-rope walker, graceful, daring rider, and has ably filled nearly all the positions in the life of the arena. . . . The Professor was married in 1858 and is the happy possessor of three girls and two boys. New York Dramatic Mirror, June 16, 1883, p. 9.
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Charles Bartine's Circuses - 1873-75, 1889-1894, 1898, 1902, 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1872-1909
• Article on Charles Bartine's shows, 1868-1909 is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1966 (scroll down or use find).
1873:
Bartine & Co.'s Opera House, Dayton, O. . . . The Luando Brothers, gymnasts and trapezists are engaged with Bartine & Co. for the tenting season, starting from there about the latter part of May. New York Clipper, April 12, 1873, p. 15.
Chas. Bartine's Great Novelty Show, with Bartine & Co. as proprietors, is now thoroughly organized, and after two days performance in Dayton, O., start on May 15 on their summer campaign, performing under canvas. New York Clipper, April 26, 1873, p. 31.
Bartine & Co.'s Novelty Circus: Charles Bartine, manager; John Ritly(?), treasurer; Fred Kellogg, ticket agent; Wm. Marshall, contracting agent; Geo. Parker, advertising agent; Leon Whettony, ringmaster and equestrian director; Jas. Lubin, master of canvas; Dan Lockhart, master of horse. The array of talent is: the Gertrude Sisters, ceiling walkers; Mons. Duverney and Mlle. Florantaine, contortionists; Millie Basoure(?), Jennie De Long, Maud Stanley, equestriennes; Chas. Bartine and Joe Moll, clowns; Luando Bros., gymnasts; De Witt, Davidson, Geo. Hoover, John Neaven, Jake Grubb, etc., acrobats; M. c. Miller's cornet band of ten pieces. Wm. Marshall has the outside and inside candy stand privilege. The troupe consists of forty men and twenty-four horses, and will visit the smaller cities of Ohio, Indiana and Michigan. They gave their first performance at Dayton, O., on May 2. New York Clipper, May 3, 1873, p. 39.
1874: Bartine's Circus and the Barlow Brothers' Novelty Troupe are to be in Milton, Ind., Aug. 17. The company includes the Luando(?) Bros., Chas. Hoover, John Naren, the Rolland Bros., Lillian Howorth, the Barlow Bros. and Chas. Bartine and W. Checky, clowns. They use a 90ft. round top canvas, with a 40ft. middle piece, making a 130ft. tent. It is reported that business lately has been good. New York Clipper, August 22, 1874, p. 167.
1875:
Bartine's Novelty Circus and Menagerie will start from Connersville, Ind., May 31. Talent wanted. Charley Bartine, Franklin, Ohio. New York Clipper, April 3, 1875, p. 3.
Bartine's Novelty Circus and Menagerie the coming season will give gymnastic, acrobatic and variety performances, but there will be no equestrian acts. There will be a minstrel entertainment independent of the variety show. They will start from Connersville, Ind., about May 20. New York Clipper, April 3, 1875, p. 7.
Bartine's Novelty Circus and Menagerie will have three cages of animals, two of stuffed birds and wax figures, a trained buffalo, six baggage wagons, two carriages, and a band wagon. A 110 foot round top canvas will be used, and a 40 foot round top for a dressing room. . . . New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, p. 23.
1889:
Chas. Bartine has just taken possession of the Seamon House, Montpeiler, Ind. His son-in-law, George Muneviller, will manage it during the tenting season, while Manager Bartine is out on the road attending to the business affairs of his circus. Showman Bartine has also leased the Fair Grounds for a term of five years, and will turn it into neat comfortable Winter quarters for his shows. His troupe opened their season April 2 at Montpelier, with an entire new outfit, from stakes up. New York Clipper, April 20, 1889, p. 97.
The Bartine Consolidated Circus is now organized as follows, and will open the season at Montpelier, Ind., May 2: Chas. Bartine, sole proprietor and manager; John McDonough, assistant manager; Clarence Burton, equestrian director; Charles Forbes, general contracting agent; Geo. Burke, general advertising agent, with four billposters; Tom Lee, master of canvas; John Palmer, assistant Boss canvasman, with ten assistants; F. W. Pike, master of stock, with twelve assistants; Geo. L. Glesinger, manager of candy stands and reserved seat privileges; E. S. Adell, manager of sideshow; Louis Brooks, steward of cook house; Prof. W. C. Youngs, leader of band of ten musicians. Performers - Clarence Burton, Artie Burton, Louie Burton, Mlle. Annie Burton, Frank Ross, Maud and Annie Parks, Prince Muro, . . . C. P. Stebleton, Geo. Greno, John Robinson, . . . Asa Barker, Wm. Arnold, Frank Bronibaugh, John Boyd. Concert people - Billy Mincer, Chas. Bartine, Barker and Brooks, and Master John. The show travels by wagon, using twelve baggage wagons, four cages, three passenger band wagons, three buggies and forty-five head of horses. Tents - 90 ft. round top, two 36 ft. middle pieces; 40 ft. round top dressing room, 35 x 65 ft. sideshow tent, two horse tents and two cook tents. Everything in and out of the show is brand new this season, from the stakes up, and painted in high, flashing colors. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889.
1890:
These people have signed with the Chas. Bartine Show for next season: . . . Clarence Burton and the Burton Athletes; Patterson Bros . . . the Belfords . . . J. B.(?) Miller will be in charge of advance brigade No. 1 . . . The first brigade will use a four horse bill wagon and one buggy; No. 2 will use a two horse bill wagon and three one horse skirmish wagons. The show will use eighty horses, ponies and mules, and carry about eighty-five people all told. Mr. Bartine and his family have all been suffering with "La Grippe" for nearly two weeks and none yet are able to venture outside the house, though all are improving. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 781.
Chas. Bartine's Consolidated (Wagon) Shows, for sale, candy stands, reserved seats and other privileges, for season of 1890. . . . Chas. Bartine, Montpelier, Ind. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 785.
Fred Aymar will join the Bartine Circus next season. New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 805.
Fred Aymar is a Montpelier, Ind., breaking ring stock for ___ Bartine Show for the coming season. Clarence Morton(?) has signed as equestrian director, and Mr. Aymar will assume charge of the sideshow. New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 813.
Wanted, for Chas. Bartine's Circus and Menagerie, four good property men, one wardrobe man. Two, four and six horse drivers and some ___ canvasmen. Also want to buy, two good Kidd Patent lights. Chas. Bartine, Montpelier, Ind. New York Clipper, March 1, 1890, p. 846.
Chas. Bartine's Circus and Menagerie is now organized as follows: Chas. Bartine, sole proprietor and manager; John McDonough(?), assistant manager; E. P. Shull(?), treasurer; W. Fred Aymar, general superintendent; Clarence B???, equestrian director; J. H. Miller, general contracting agent; L. H. McDugal, general advertising agent, with ten billposters; Joseph Wur??ney, musical director, with twelve musicians; Jas. Kingsbury, superintendent of horses, with twenty grooms; Jno. D. Robinson, superintendent of lights; Chas. W. Ross, boss property man, with six assistants; Chas Derring(?), superintendent of wardrobe; Doc Horton and W. C. Co?well, managers of reserved seats and candy stands. All other privileges are run by the proprietor. Performers - The Three Burton athletes, Geore and Mollie Belford, Frank M. Ross(?), . . . Etta Leadora, . . . Patterson Bros., . . . C. P. Stebleton(?) and troupe of dogs, Chas. Bartine Jr., and his troupe of educated horses and ponies, ten in number; Billy Mincer and his trained donkeys, Nellie Bar???. John Bartine, Charley Maddox, . . . Geo. W. Blitz, Prof. Angelo and his troupe of performing ___, etc.; Billy Arnold, Will C. Young, Kay Kepley, Chas. Tinkham, T. F. Fanning(?), Asher Cady, and others. The show will use a round top with a middle piece for the circus, an 80Ft. round top, with a middle for menageri; a side show top, a dressing room, two horse tents, sixteen baggage wagons, nine cages, one ticket wagon, twelve band wagons, three passenger wagons, three carriages, two buggies and one hundred and ?? head of horses and ponies. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 4.
Manager Chas. Bartine has added an elephant, three camels . . . and other animals to his circus and menagerie. New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 23.
Call. Chas. Bartines' New Consolidated Circus, Menagerie, Museum, Aviary and Trained Animal Shows. Largest and best equipped wagon show in America. Chas. Bartine, sole proprietor and manager. Season open at Montpelier, Ind., April 24(?), 1890. Chas. Bartine, Montpelier, Ind. N. B. Billposters, report by April 5, 1890. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 44.
Duluth, Minnesota. Frank Gay goes with Chas. Bartine's Circus. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 67.
Clarinda Lowanda and Joseph Parson have signed with the Bartine Circus and Menagerie for this season. The show is receiving animals and new features every day. About forty new wagons and cages are now ready, and everything in and about the show is new and bright. . . . opens at Montpelier, Ind., April 24(?). New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 91.
The Chas. Bartine Circus and Menagerie opened its season, April 24(?), at Montpelier, Ind., to splendid business. The parade employed two band chariots, nine cages, two pony chariots, fourteen mounted people, twenty head of lead stock, one elephant and two camels. Everything about the show is new and bright. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 126.
Chas. Bartine's Circus and Menagerie wanted, one good No. 1 principal double bar performer. Also Juan D. Zamaro, of Mexican Family. Telegraph as per route. Chas Bartine, proprietor and manager. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 128.
Frank La Verr is now the general agent of the Chas. Bartine Show, replacing Chas. Forbes. New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 198.
Wanted for Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows, a good lady rider (bareback) with her own horse, also good principal bar performer. Chas. Bartine, sole proprietor. New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 205.
Roster of the advance department of Chas. Bartine's Circus and Menagerie: F. K. Le Vere, general agent . . . Wm. Conrad, lithographer and programmer . . . Frank Jennings and Ed. Somers. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 215.
Business with Bartine's Show has been ___ for the past three weeks, on account of bad weather. Millie Marrata joined June ?. . . . Mr. Bartine is ahead for awhile. New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 261.
Prof. Dave ___ has taken charge of the No. 1 band of Bartine's Circus, consisting of fourteen pieces. The band has been newly uniformed, and makes a fine appearance. Both band and orchestra are doing some fine playing. The orchestra is under the leadership of Prof. Will Young(?). Business is good and everybody is happy. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
The Bartine Show has been doing an excellent business all season, with the exception of about one week or so. B. W. Marshall(?) now has charge of the advance, with six assistants. The show is being heavily billed. Everybody is well and in the best of spirits, and the "ghost" walks regularly. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 294.
Chas. Bartine's "Big Shows." Wanted to buy, several two horse cages, with or without animals. Also was first class people that can do two or more strong (feature) acts, for the ring; also concert people and two thoroughbred candy butchers. . . . New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 301.
Wanted, for Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows, a good two brother act (and it must be an act) that do two turns, tumble and leap. Also first class musicians. . . . Show going South for the Winter. Chas. Bartine, proprietor. N. B. Wanted, some good two horse cages, with or without animals. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 349.
Fred Aymar has, for the past three weeks, been very ill with malarial fever, at Montpelier, Ind. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
Notes from Chas. Bartine's Circus. Four(?) more stands remain in Illinois, and by the time this reaches the Clipper we will be in Indiana. Business throughout Illinois has been splendid, and we leave the state in a better condition financially than when we entered. The show will go South for the winter. Mr. Bartine is buying fresh horses every day, and in consequence the show is equipped with as fine a lot of stock as . . . Mr. Bartine is having some new baggage wagons and passenger coaches(?) built. George A. ___, late treasurer and press agent of the Fisher & Aiken Show, is in charge of the sideshow. Mr. Clark brought him on in the show . . . to succeed "Doc" Ouda(?), who secured a paying position . . . "Doc" left the show with the good wishes of everybody . . . Clarinda Lowanda was ill several days, but she is again riding in her old form. . . . The sideshow will be considerably strengthened within the next week by the addition of new ___, among them a troupe of performing canary birds . . . Everything on and about the show is going smoothly . . . the ghost walks regularly. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 387.
Gus Gun, juggler and equilibrist, has closed with Chas. Bartine's Circus, and opened with Healy & Bigelow, for the winter season, at Louisville, Ky. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 423.
Notes from Chas. Bartine's Circus. Our first Indiana stand was at Covinton, Aug. 28, opening to splended business, which has kept up to the mark ever since. Indeed, Indiana has turned out better than Illinois, which is saying a good deal, for the latter state was productive of very fair business. Our first Ohio stand was made at Oxford, Sept. 12. Only a few places will be visited in Ohio, after which we take in Kentucky, Virginia, West Virginia and the South. The show is in first class condition for the Southern tour, and the prospects for a prosperous trip are bright. Mr. Bartine has been ahead of the show for several days, on a prospecting tour, and speaks well of the outlook. John McDonough, who has been assistant manager with the show, has gone ahead, to succeed agent Marshall. A fine lion den has been added to the menagerie. The Schedule of prices has been raised a few points, and seems to give satisfaction. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 468.
W. Fred Aymar has recovered from his recent severe illness, and has joined the King & Franklin Show as general announcer. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 468.
Bartine's Circus has closed its Western tour, and is now reorganized for a Southern trip. Geo. Gohen(?) has been made general advance agent, with John McDonough(?) as assistant. The bill brigade is in charge of J. M. Kelly, former assistant boss canvasman of the show, with Chas. Schleiger(?), Geo. Whiteman, William Braden . . . Edward Wall and W. M. Davis as assistants. Ed. Corbay has charge of the lithographing, and Murray Allison(?) of the programmes. Mr. Gohen will retire from the show about Nov. 15(?), and is to make a young lady in Cincinnati a life partner. J. M. Kelly is also to retire from the show, and, like Mr. Gohen, is to assume the matrimonial yoke in company with a young lady at Charlotte, N. C. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 533.
John McDonnogh, of Bartine's Circus, wishes us to state that Geo. A. Gohen is not, and never has been, the general agent of that show. Also that John Kelly has never been in charge of the paper brigade, as stated in a previous issue of this paper. Roster of the advance brigade: F. B. Long, railroad contractor; John McDonnogh, in charge of bill car; Chas. E. Schinger(?), boss bill poster; William Braden, Walter O'Neil, John Kelly, Geo. Whiteman, Ed. Davis and Billy Wall. The show started by rail from Winston, N. C. The date of closing is indefinite. New York Clipper, November 22, 1890, 581.
On the Road, Circuses and Miscellaneous: Bartine's, Hodges, S. C. Nov 26, Abberille(?) 27, Greenwood 28, Newberry 29, Park Station Dec. 1. New York Clipper, November 29, 1890, 595.
Chas. Bartine's Colossal R. R. Shows. Wanted immediately, good two Bros. act and bar and tumple and leap. Trombone and alto or tenor. Must double, one clarionet, other second violin. Also good boss hostler, one good watchman. . . . Chas. Bartine. P. S. Also good concert and sideshow people. Harry Evarts, telegraph lowest salary. New York Clipper, November 29, 1890, 604.
1891:
Charles Bartine’s show was in Jacksonville, Fla., Jan. 10. New York Dramatic News, January 13, 1891, p. 10.
Chas. Bartine and Fred Aymar, of Bartine's Shows, have purchased of G. A. Palmer, of Portland, Ind., the handsome spotted stallion Palmer, the mathematician that performs fifty-four tricks, including telling the time of day from a watch, solving problems in addition, subtraction, etc.; the leaping broncho Alexia, that does thirty-three clever acts; the trick donkey Balaam(?); two leaping grayhounds; one Pawnee, that leaps over eleven head of horses; and Clinker(?), who leaps and turns a somersault over eight head. Mr. Bartine considers them the best broken of any he ever saw. He will make a feature of each. He offered what he considered fair sums for others, but the offers were not accepted. The large dun horse "Den," that King & Franklin offered a round some for, is able to get around again, new feet having grown on him. This is the horse that was foundered last winter. Although sick nearly a year, he never forgot a trick. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 709.
Cincinnati, Ohio. T. B. Long of Charles Bartine's Shows, is here closing contracts for canvas and rolling stock. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
A bouncing baby boy was born to the Bartine Family Jan. 22(?). Mother and son are doing nicely, and Charles Bartine is consequently happy. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
Chas. Bartine's Grand New Consolidated Wagon Shows, Museum, Aviary, Trained Animals. Gymnastic and Acrobatic Alliance. Will open its season of 1891 at Connersville, Indiana, Mar. 4. First class performers and musicians only wanted. Address until March 1, Chas. Bartine, Charleston, S. C.; after that date to Connersville, Indiana. J___ De Zamora and Geo Grenier, write. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 765.
The Chas. Bartine Shows will travel by wagon the coming season and will use a 110ft. round top tent, 80(?)ft. museum and sideshow and 40ft. dressing room canvas. The show will carry sixty head of horses for baggage and passengers, and eight trick horses, ponies and mules, nine baggage wagons, two passenger wagons, one carriage, one band wagon, two buggies, three advance wagons, one cage of monkeys, two cages of birds and a den of snakes. The latter three features will be used in sideshow only, as the big tent will not have a menagerie, nor will there be any riding acts except a riding dogs, goats, and monkeys. The show will be run on strict principles, with no gaming adjuncts or "fakes" - not even the customary candy stands. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
Chas. Bartine is as busy as a bee just now, preparing for the coming tour of his shows. Last week he shipped from various points South a lot of circus paraphernalia to the winter quarters of his show at Connersville, Ind. He purposes [sic] making a special feature of his printing this year, besides having one of the neatest and cleanest little shows on the road. No "faking" will be allowed around the grounds any place visited. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
Chas. Bartine's New Consolidated Wagon Shows will open its tenting season at Connersville, Indiana, about May 1(?), 1891. Only good perfomers (must do two or more turns) leap and tumble, also good musicians, wanted. Chas. Bartine, Connersville, Indiana. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 828.
Chas. Bartine's Circus will begin operations about May 1, greatly enlarged and finely polished all 'round. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
Whiting and Geyer have signed with Bartine's Show for the season of 1891. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
W. H. Hopson, ringmaster, and Arthur W. Cole, privilege manager, are preparing for their engagement with Chas. Bartine's Circus. They have purchased a combination wagon, built after the fashion used with English road circuses, and it will be utilized as a sleeper as well as a means of transportation. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 59.
Arthur W. Cole has joined W. C. Coup's Circus at New Albany, Ind., having been released by Chas. Bartine from a prior engagement. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
The following people are recent additions to the roster of Bartine's Consolidated Shows: Dan Malcolm and Millie Theola(?) . . . Walter A. Ward, Rolland S. Ward, Arthur R. Ward . . . Billy Randall . . . The show will open at Connersville, Ind., May 11(?). New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 135.
Chas. Bartine's Shows call. Show opens at Connersville, Indiana, May 11. Wanted, a few more good people that do two or more turns, to strengthen company. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 145.
Charles Forbes has been engaged as general agent for Chas. Bartine’s Circus, which opens at Connersville, Ind., May 11. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 169.
. . . The tents, wagons, harness, etc., are all new. The baggage wagons have platform springs and high paneled beds, painted white and straw color, and lettered and striped in blue and red. The show carries eight baggage, one band, two passenger and one ticket wagon. The canvas: A 90 foot round top with a 40 foot middle piece, a 40 foot dressing room, and a 40x60 sideshow, one horse and two dining tents. The stock: Thirty-nine working horses, ten trained horses, ponies and mules. The executive: Charles Bartine and Co., proprietors and managers; James McLaughlin, treasurer; John McDonough, assistant manager; Charles Forbes, general agent; W. H. Hapson, equestrian director; W. A. Ward, musical director; Emett Snyder, master of horse; George Davenport, master of tents; John D. Robinson, superintendent of lights. The privileges are run by the management. New York Dramatic News, May 23, 1891, p. 6.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, New Paris, O., May 21, Edwards 22 . . . Gettysburg 24, Ansonia 26, Versailles 27, St. Marys 28, Spencerville 19. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
Chas. Bartine's New Shows opened their season May 11, at Connersville, Ind., and report prosperous business. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
Wanted, for Chas. Bartine's New Consolidated Shows, to strengthen company, a two brother act, juggler, barrel and cross, must all be able to do two or more turns and ___ in tumbling; also want other good specialties and musicians, clarinet, slide trombone. Also want good sideshow people and good Taylor organ, a few more workingmen and a man with good specialty that can work trick(?) stock. Address as per route, Chas. Bartine's New Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 195.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, Versailles, O. May 27, St. Mary's 28, Spencerville 29. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
Wanted, for the Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows, two good billposters and boss canvasman and good seatman, also good camp cook. Address, as per route. Chas. Bartine. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 224.
Wanted a good contortionist, brother act, rough black face song and dance man. As per route. Chas. Bartine's Circus. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 227.
Bartine's New Shows, notwithstanding bad weather, have been doing remarkably good business, and everybody is happy and contented. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, Bowling Green, O. June 10, Pemberville, 11 . . . New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
Wanted, a good, light bill wagon. Address per route. Chas. Bartine's Circus. P. S. Also want a man who can work and manage trick horses. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 240.
Chas. Bartine's Circus is reported to be doing well in Ohio. The performers with the Whitney Circus visited the show in a body at Gibsonburg last week, and enjoyed themselves immensely. New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 251.
The Three Rexford Bros. have joined Bartine's Circus. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 268.
The Bartine Circus have for the past ten days been experiencing a series of heavy storms and bad roads, yet business has not been unsatisfactory. Everybody is well and happy, and the man in white walks regularly every Sunday morning. Chas. Morrison and M. T. Duffy joined June 8 and the Rexfords 20. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
The Whitney Circus has been following their regular Ohio route for the past two weeks to reported good business. It has rained almost every day for the past three weeks. We have had the Bartine Show quite near us for several stands. On June 14(?) our route crossed. We were laying(?) at Fremont, O., and our managers invited the entire Bartine Show to take dinner with us; they did so, and all enjoyed the cook tent and Hop Bitter annex, under the management of Kellmar & McFee. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, West Salem, O. June 2?, Polk 26, Ashland 27. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
Wanted, good funny knockabout talking clown. Wire per route Chas. Bartine's Circus. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 277.
On the road, circuses: Bartine's, Perryville, O. July 1, Independence 2, Belleville 3 . . . Mt. Gilead 6, Cardington 7. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
The Bartine Circus is still doing good business. Manager Bartine recently purchased four span(?) of fine young horses, and is otherwise continually improving his show. At the afternoon performance June 2?, Mlle. Theolo met with a very severe accident. One of her flying rings hit her on the head, cutting a gash over two inches long. It took four large stitches to draw the wound together. At the night performance on the same day, while attempting a somersault between bars, James Whiting ___ "___," and came down square on his head. He was carried out of the ring, and has been unable to go to work since. He is improving rapidly, and hopes to be ready for duty within a week or so. The band, under the leadership of Geo. Tipton, is a great feature. The Rexford Bros., Morrison and Mlle. Theolo are meeting with much success, as is also Master ___ Bartine with his trained ponies. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 284.
On the road, circuses: Bartine's, Frederickton, O. July 9, Danville 10, Gann 11, Millersburg 13. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
The Chas. Bartine Circus reportes continued fine business and everybody is healthy and happy. Mrs. Bartine and family joined the show for a brief visit at Galton(?), O., July 4. The management of this show will organize a minstrel company next winter, and are already negotiating with some high class performers. Geo. Winfred(?) joined the show at Mount Gilead, O., July 4(?). M. T. Duffy closed 4(?) at Galton(?). New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's . . . Doyleston, O. 21 . . . Cuyahoga Falls 23, Kent 24 . . . New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 313.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, Wadeworth, O. July 22, Cuyahoga Falls 23, Kent 24, Ravenna 25. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 332.
J. H. Miller After His Money. A special dispatch from Zanesville to the state Journal appeared in this morning’s paper as follows: "James H. Miller, of Newark, O., came here this evening and secured a writ of attachment against the Charles Bartine circus, which is exhibiting here tonight, for $450, alleged to be due him as agent's salary for last season. . . . Arrangements are being made by Bartine to furnish a redelivery bond and go on ahead and fill his dates." Newark (OH) Daily Advocate, August 25, 1891.
Chas. Bartine's Circus reports continued excellent business. Dan Malcolm and Theola close Aug. ??, to take out a fair ground company of their own. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, New Lexington, O. Aug 26, Somerset(?) 27, Baltimore, O. 28 . . . Canal(?) Winchester 31, Asherville Sept. 1. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 417.
Wanted, for Chas. Bartine's Circus, a good aerial team, male and female who can do two turns, also bar people and any other strong specialties, also concert people and an A1 cornet player and other musicians. Telegraph and be ready to join at once as per route. Chas. Bartine. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 427.
1892:
The Chas. Bartine Shows are at winter quarters, Germantown, O. During the next three months the show will be greatly improved. Everything will be newly painted and repaired. A new band wagon, new ticket wagon, new trunk wagon and several new baggage wagons will be added. The show will open in April, and will travel by wagon through Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. Manager Chas. Bartine has been seriously ill for the last two weeks with La Grippe and a ___ on his neck, but is now improving, and expects to be able to venture out again in a few weeks. New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 760.
The following have signed with the Bartine Shows for next season: George Dunbar and ___ . . . Cameo(?) and Eastman, Ernie Inman(?). Everything is working nicely about winter quarters at present. The stock is looking good and is doing fine work. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 795.
Prof. B. L. Bo?ton, bandmaster, and Morris Clifford, general contracting agent, have signed with Bartine's Consolidated Shows for the coming tenting season. New York Clipper, February 13, 1892, p. 808.
The following people have signed with the Chas. Bartine Shows for the coming tenting season: . . . Thomas Henry, James Zemp(?), Jas. L. Watts, John D. Robinson and Lute C. Gillett. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 827.
Chas. Bartine writes hopefully of his coming season, as follows: "The Chas. Bartine Show's new outfit is now about completed. We will have this season (besides the wagons of last summer) one new band wagon, new advance wagon besides one new ticket, one passenger and six baggage wagons, making in all fifteen wagons, not including the buggies. The wagons are all white, highly decorated with scarlet, red, green and gold trimmings, making, without a doubt, the handsomest and neatest little wagon show on the road. Show will open at Germantown, O., the latter part of April, and will travel principally in Ohio, Indiana and Illinois. I shall also purchase about twenty head of fine gray horses." New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
Billy Geyer has signed with Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
The roster of the Chas. Bartine Circus is: Bartine & Miller, proprietors; Chas. Bartine, general manager; L. ?. Miller, assistant manager and treasurer; Ed. Leon, equestrian director; . . . John Lewis, boss bill poster with three assistants; Geo. Phillips, press agent and lithographer with two assistants; John ?. Robinson, superintendent of lights; . . . Al Lewis, boss property man with three assistants; Martin Murphy, boss canvasman with ten(?) assistants; Sam Reed, boss hostler with fifteen assistans; Frank L. Wa??, steward; Dennie Crosser, in charge of ring stock; Burt L. ???, musical director with ten first class musicians; the Four Leons, Geo. Donher(?), Mlle. Lotta, Ida Baily, Millie Leon, . . . Nellie Bartine, Nettie Bartine, Elsa Bartine, . . . Dan ?. Manning, Billy Gyer, James Zemp, Newman and King, Thos Henry, Ben Kahn, Phil Leon, Master ??? and his six performing Shetland ponies, Chas. Bartine's school of educated horses, a troupe of performing dogs, goats and ponies, and fifty head of horses. The show will travel by wagon and will open April ? at Germantown, O., touring Ohio, Indiana and ???. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
Chas. O. Morrison, the contortionist, has signed with Chas. Bartine's Show. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
Dan C.(?) Manning, talking and singing clown, and Ida Bailey and dogs have signed with Charles Bartine's Circus. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
Call. "The Chas. Bartine Shows." Performers, musicians and others engaged for the above shows report for rehearsals April 26(?) at Germantown, Ohio. Chas. Bartine, manager. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 78.
The Chas. Bartine Consolidated Shows will open season at Germantown, O., April 28(?). The company is now complete, and everything is in splendid shape. The Harmans(?) have signed for the season. We have added three more new baggage wagons, making in all fifteen besides the passenger wagons, carriages and buggies. Every rig with this show is snow white, and is highly ornamented. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 82.
Capt. W. H. Stewart has signed to run the sideshow with Bartine's Circus this season. His gorilla, Angola, will be a feature of the annex. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
Chas. Bartine writes: We have been on the road since April 28, and this is only the fourth day we have been without rain. In all my thirty years experience in the show business I never saw anything like it. It is a wonder we have a working man left or a horse alive, as it has been msot miserable weather, and roads (if such they may be called) are in a terrible condition, yet we have not missed a single stand, or even an afternoon or night performance. We have lost several head of horses (pulled to death), yet the "ghost" has walked regularly, and now as the sun looks as if it would shine again everybody is happy. The following are the names of the performers who are with us, and have been all season: The Four Leons, Ed. M. and Kitty Harman, Dan C. Maning and Ida Bailey, Geo. and Maud ___, Fannie Stewart, Nettie and Elva(?) Bartine, M. T. Duffy, Evans and Norman, Chas. O. Morrison, Tod Bartine, L. Miller, W. H. Stuart and Prof. B. L. Bolton. The show is well horsed, having about seventy head of good stock. "Old Pop" Stevens has charge of the stables, and Fred King has charge of the canvas. The old standby, Tom Minor, has charge of cook tents, with eight assistants, and everything is run in first class shape. I have bought over forty head of stock since the show started on the road, and notwithstanding all the obstacles, I hope to be a big winner on the season. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
The Chas. Bartine's Shows had quite an accident during the night performance at Wellington, O., June 15(?). The Leons were doing their "La Chilie(?)" act in which Mollie Leon makes a leap to the hands of Edward Leon (her husband). One of the heavy chains running form the crane to the "La Chelle" snapped, causing the outside bar to break and throwing them off. They fell to the ground fully thirty feet below. Though no limbs were broken, both were seriously hurt, Edward surrering such injuries that it is feared that he will be laid up for some time. It seems strange, but just one year ago, on the same lot, with the same circus, James Whiting was badly hurt at an afternoon performance, which caused him to lay off the remainder of the season. Mlle. Theola was also badly hurt at the night performance while doing her flying rings. They were the only accidents the show had all season. Mr. and Mrs. Leon are now at Wellington and are being well taken care of. The Rexford Bros. and Steve Meaney joined the show at Ashland, June 18. An addition has been made to the troupe of ponies. "Chippie," the midget pony who only weighs ___lb, gave birth to a fine little colt June 14. The baby horse weights only 14 1/2 lb., and is as lively as a kitten. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 244.
On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, Ravenna, OH July 9, Alliance 11, Salem 12. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
Wanted, to replace vacancies caused by accidents and sickness, also to strengthen show, aerial and other acts, male and female. Must be ladies and gentlemen, both in dressing room, hotels, etc. Chas. Bartine Consolidated Shows, Ravenna, O., July 9, Alliance, O., July 11, Salem, O., July 2. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 287.
Wanted, chandelier man. Telegraph Ravenna, Ohio July 9, Salem, Ohio 11. Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 289.
Akron, Ohio. Charles Bartine's Circus July 4, 5, 6, had a successful run. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 297.
Stinson and Crawford, Steve Meaney, Nealo, Blanche Nixson and the Guthries are recent additions to the Bartine Show. Good business is reported. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
On the road, circuses: Bartine's, Coshocton OH July 27, 28, Dresden 29, Adamsville 30, Cambridge Aug 1. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
Wanted, musicians. B flat coronet, baritone and clarionets. Wanted, boss hostler who understands wagons shows. As per route, Chas. Bartine Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 336.
Wanted, knockabout, talking and singing clown, who can do a turn in concert. Write or wire as per route. Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 338.
Notes from the Chas. Bartine Show. Business for the past ten weeks surpassed any in the history of the show. Many nights we were compelled to close the ticket wagon at half past seven o'clock. This is our twenty-second week on the road, and, being by wagon, everything begins to show the wear. But people know the show and flock to see it, feeling asured they will witness a superior performance and receive kind treatment. Manager Bartine will have an entire new outfit for next season - tents, poles, wagons, harness, wardrobe, etc. The following now compose the list of performers, with Geo. Rexford as equestrian director: Steve Meaney, Chas. Morrison, S??ton and Crawford, Evans and Dorman, Maley Sisters, the Guthries, Phil King, Maud Arretta(?), Rexford Bros., Nellie Bartine, Elva Bartine, Le La Vant, Chas. Balliet, Mental Vane(?), Tod Bartine, John and Willis Bartine and Burt Bolton. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 422.
On the road, circuses: Bartine's, Georgetown OH Sep 7, Bethel 8, Batavia 9. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 427.
Le [sic Lee?] Le Vant, equilibrist and aerialist, closed his season with the Chas. Bartine New Consolidated Shows and Trained Animal Exposition, and is at Saint Charles, Mich., taking a short vacation.New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.
Charles Bartine's Consolidated Shows closed their season of twenty-four weeks Oct. 12, and have gone into Winter quarters at Germantown, O. The outfit will be entirely new next season. They wil have twelve platform baggage wagons, one ticket wagon, one band wagon, two property wagons, two passenger wagons and two advance wagons. The only wagons of the old outfit that will be used will be the pole wagon and three of the larger platform baggage wagons, two of which will be used for the side show and one as a cook wagon. They will break a number of new horses for the ring, among which will be a four pony act by Master Tod, a double menage ponies act for John and Nellie,a nd a twon pony hurdle act by Little John. New York Clipper, November 5, 1892, p. 554.
Chas. Bartine has purchased from L. C. Miller (his former partner) all the rights and interest in the Chas. Bartine Shows. During this winter Mr. Bartine will build an entire new outfit of wagons, tents, etc. Next year he will use a 90(?)ft. round top tent, with two __ft. middle pieces, __ft. dressing room tent, two horse tents and a side show tent, all new. He will also use thirty-four lengths of new seats, ten ___ high. The entire outfit will be new from stakes to centre poles, wagons, wardrobe and all . . . The show will open early in April. New York Clipper, November 26, 1892, p. 602.
Chas. Drum(?) has been engaged for the Bartine Shows as superintendent of stock for season of 1893. The three Burton Athletes have signed with the same show. Mr. Bartine has just completed a large addition to his house at Germantown, O., to be used as an amusement hall, which has been christened the "Home Theatre." The hall is 30x90ft. with 18ft. ceiling; stage 24x??ft., and seats for ___ people. It was opened to the public Dec. 5 with the following specialty people: . . . the Schnieders, John Robinson, John Tod, and Nettie Bartine . . . Amy Love and Ira Balliet. New York Clipper, December 17, 1892, p. 654.
1893:
The Chas. Bartine New Consolidated Shows, season 1893, will be new and splendidly equipped wagon show, well horsed and able to get over any and all kinds of roads. Wanted to buy show property of all kinds, small animals, etc. Performers and musicians for big show, side show and concert. Show opens early in April. Chas. Bartine, Germantown, Ohio. P.S. Will ___ and legitimate privileges to responsible party as I wish to give my entire attention to the big show. New York Clipper, January 7, 1893, p. 716.
The people so far engaged for the Chas. Bartine Shows are: the Three Burtons, Le Levant, Walla Leonard, Ella Levan, the Ha???ns, Chas. O'Morrison, Maud Sunwiller, Dorman(?) and Evans, Robt.(?) Hicker, S. Fred Ward, ___ P. Jones, Tod's ___ of trained ponies, donkeys and monkeys, Ira Bali?ett, Lute C. Gillette and others. New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 755.
The following is the roster of Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows for the season of 1893 as it now stands: Chas. Bartine, general manager . . . L__ C. Gillette, general contracting agent; George ___, general advertising agent, with six bill posters; Prof. Leo. F.(P.?) Thomas, leader of first band of twelve musicians . . . Geo. Howard, boss canvasman with ten assistants . . . John D. Robbinson, superintendent lights with two assistants; Barry(Harry?) Foster, superintendent of properties with five assistants; Jack Carver, superintendent of ring stock; Harvey Earle, night watchman . . . Three Burton Athletes, Leonard(Leonardt?) Sisters, Wala Leonardt, Lee Le Vant, Mme. Le Vant, Dorman and Evans . . . Tod Nettie, John and E?va Bartine, Prof. Wiley's troupe of performing dogs and goats, Master Chas. Bartine's troupe of educated horses, ponies, donkeys and riding dogs and monkeys . . . S. F.(?) Ward, Ed Jones and Geo. S. Bardford. . . . The tents will all be new, as will be the wardrobe and trappings and most of the wagons and paraphernalia. The show will open at Germantown, O., early in April. New York Clipper, February 18, 1893, p. 800.
Nellie Howard and Eva Howard have signed for the coming season with the Chas. Bartine Consolidated Shows. A. C. Loyd and Ira Bailliet(Baillet?) have also signed. Frank Webb will be boss hostler. John Shields will manage the sideshow this season, which will be made a strong feature. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
The first billing brigade of the Chas. Bartine Shows will start April 3. It consists of one hour horse bill wagon, two one horse skirmish . . . one buggy and five billposters. Lute C. Gillvit(?), general agent of the show, will direct them. The show will be thoroughly billed this season with new special paper. The second brigade will start April 10, and will be composed of one two horse bill wagon and one buggy. There will be three men, in charge of J. H. Blanchard. The show opens at Germantown, O. New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.
Bartine's and Sun Bros.' advance brigades came together at North Baltimore May 19(?), and there was some great hustling. Roster of Sun Bros.' advance brigade: First wagons, Gus Sun, contracting agent; Tony Crandall, advance agent with three assistants; Peter Sun, in charge country route with two assistants; James Carr, lithographer; John Swell programer. The advace are ten days ahead. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
Wanted, to join at once, contortionist. Must do two specialties and ___ tumbling. Also good talking and knockabout clown, slide trombone player. The Chas. Bartine Shows. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 224.
Wanted, for the Chas. Bartine Show, artists of all kinds for big show and concert, also sideshow attractions and boss hostler. Wire per route, the Chas. Bartine Shows. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 226.
Notes from car advance No. 1 of Chas. Bartine's Shows. There has been some changes on the advance since the opening. We have had nothing but opposition ever since we left headquarters, and are putting up on an average about ___ sheets a day. The roster now Lute ?. Gillette, general agent . . . We use one four horse bill wagon, one two horse paste wagon . . . New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
Chas. F.(?) Welch(?), of Bartine's Circus and Jessie Chisham(?), a song and dance performer, were married July 1?, at Columbus(?), O., during the concert with the circus. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
Anbola(?), contortionist, and Marie Hall, character dancer, both members of Charles Bartine's Circus, were married in the sawdust arena just before the commencement of the concert, on July 17(?), at Columbus, O. The bride was the recipient of an elegant gold watch from the members of the troupe. Clarence Burton(Barton?) made the presentation speech. There was a jolly wedding supper. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
___ Gillette, contracting agent, has closed another season with Chas. Bartine's New Consolidated Shows, and is at his home, Lapeer, Mich. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.
1894:
T. R. Minor has signed as steward and Pat Burke as boss canvas man to the New Bartine Shows for the coming season. The show opens at Franklin, O., May 12(?). New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.1894: Wanted, for the Bartine Old Fashioned Circus, people in all branches, male and female, also musicians. Address Franklin, O. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 128.
1898:
Charles Bartine Wagon Show band members: H. R. Lucas, alto; Harry Wright, trombone; Doc Dawson, baritone; H. Thurman, cornet; Tom Uhlman, bass; Ted Bartine, drums. Circus Report, Vol. 3, No. 18 (May 6), 1974, p. 4 (supplement).
George M. Rose, the popular general agent of the Bartine circus, which is billed to exhibit here Monday and Tuesday of next week, has forwarded his resignation, which will no doubt be accepted with regret, as he is one of the best hustlers in his line on the road. He has been with them all—the old Adam Forepaugh show three seasons, the Barnun show four years and the others from one to two. A caution here. Keep your pencil in your pocket, girls. Don't figure age. He's only thirty-four, single and on the lookout for the future. He was born in the show business and has grown up with it. He resigns his present position to take an interest with Charles Love, of New York, and M. H. Johnson, of this city, in a tented theater that is to be opened at the corner of Ninth and Chillicothe streets Saturday, June 25th. At 6:30 p.m. there will be a grand street parade. Watch for it. The price of admission will be 10 cents. There will be Prof. Adell with trained ponies, dogs, monkeys, goats and pigs; the Chester sisters, aerialists; Love brothers in their latest creation, "The Destruction of the Maine"; Billy Hepford,musical instrumentalist; Prof. Rose in black art and entertainer of mysteries and other artists of ability. This show will open Saturday and remain for an indefinite period. Exhibitions nightly. Shirley Grimes will probably take the general agency of Bartine's circus made vacant by the resignation of George M. Rose. He has been offered the position. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Thursday, June 23, 1898, p. 6
1902:
Chas. Bartine Consolidated Railroad Shows, season of 1903, headquarters, Connersville, Ind. Chas. Bartine. New York Clipper, December 13, 1902, p. 942.
1909:
Chas. Bartine's Circus disbanded at Rushville, Ind., July 24. Bartine's home is in Connersville, Ind. Billboard, August 14, 1909, p. 20.
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Barr Bros. - 1946 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1942-46
Information on the show and the 1946 route is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1958 (scroll down).
• An article on the Barr Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 3, pp. 14-22.
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Barton & Bailey - 1915 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1915
The Barton & Bailey's World Celebrated Shows existed only one year. After the demise of Tom Wiedemann's Kit Carson Wild West, he framed the Barton & Bailey show with investors John A. Barton and Mike Kahn. The show opened April 24 and closed July 28, 1915. Bandwagon, May-June, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 3, p. 2.
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Ed T. Basye's - 1878-1879 (various titles)
1878:
All people engaged with Ed T. Basye's Cosmopolitan Circus and Equestrian Exposition will meet at Shelbyville, Ill., by September 8. Sideshow and candy privileges for sale. Ed. T. Basye, Shelbyville, Ill., Harr Codona, equestrian director. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, August 10, 1878, p. 159.
Ed G. Basye's Cosmopolitan Circus and Equestrian Exposition is to take the road the second week in September from Shelbyville, Ill. Ed. G Basye, manager; C. S. Baldwin, assisant manager; Harry Codona, equestrian manager; Ed Lemon, leader of band; Col. Fred H. Bailey, agent; Signorita Luando, Mlle. Cora, Mlle. Viola, Miss Gussie Luando, Harry Codona, John Luando, James Ducrow, John Ruth, Ducrow and Lamotte, the Mansfield Bros., three in number; clown, Henry Jennings, Sam McFlynn, Os. Arbuckle, and Van de Walter. The company will travel by railroad, using their own cars, twelve in number, and will show under a 100ft. canvas with a 50ft. middle piece. They will run their own concert. New York Clipper, August 24, 1878, p. 175.
Ed. T. Basye's Cosmopolitan Circus and Equestrian Exposition will give two exhibitions at Leavenworth, Kan., on October 2, 1878. Admission 50; children 25. [Advertisement] Leavenworth Weekly Times (Leavenworth, KS), September 26, 1878, n.p.n.
1879:
Wanted, male and female riders, clowns, and circus performers generally for Ed T. Basye's Cosmopolitan Circus, to open at National Theatre, New Orleans, Feb. 1, for four weeks. Would like to hear from the best riders in the country. Ed T. Basye. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, January 25, 1879, p. 347.
Winter's engagement. The Great St. Louis Circus and Cosmopolitan Allied Shows. Performers in every branch of the business wanted. Also musicians wanted. Everybody with this show must work cheap. Agents and billposters send us your address and lowest terms. Good canvasmen and hostler, some of Cairo at once. Address Ed T. Basye, manager, Cairo, Ill. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, September 27, 1879, p. 215.
Wanted. Musicians to travel South with Circus for the Winter. Address immediately, A. T.(?) Lemon, Danville, Ill. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, September 27, 1879, p. 216.
The Great St. Louis Circus goes West. Hurdle rider and other people wanted. Dan Dale and Codona come on at once. Show opens Oct. 25 at Cairo, Ill. Ed T. Basye, manager, Cairo, Ill. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, October 18, 1879, p. 239.
Basye's Great Consolidated Shows leave Cairo, Ill., Oct 26(?), going South. Among the company are Harry Codona, John Luando, Miss Annie Worland, Baker and Root, Master James De Haven, Gussie Luando, Charles Covella, Miss Cora, Mille Mazeppa, La Petite Edna, Master Charles, Billy Andrews, James Aymar, Mat Leland (agent), Hamilton Bros., and young Maxwell. New York Clipper, October 25, 1879, p. 243.
The Great St. Louis Circus is to exhibit in Pine Bluff, Ark., Dec. _; thence South into Louisiana and Texas. Matt Leland is the advance agent. The outfit consists of 15(?) wagons, 110 horses, and two sideshows. One of the features is a street parade of mounted people, representing every nation, in court costume and war armament, accompanied by Amazonians(?), Munson's brass band and bandwagon. The show will probably make a tour of Mexico. New York Clipper, December 6, 1879, p. 291.
Matt Leland, at present agent for the Great St. Louis Circus, traveling on the Mississippi, and W. D. Cornwell, leaper, we are informed, have been engaged by Cooper & Bailey Co. for the Great London Show the coming season. New York Clipper, December 27, 1879, p. 315.
1885: The New York R. R. Aquarium is playing towns on the Illinois Central R. R. The show consists of two Pullman cars containing large tanks filled with alligators, sea turtles and marine wonders, with a band of ten pieces, Otto Fritz, leader. Lew Nichols is solicitor and lecturer, and Ed. T. Basye, proprietor.New York Clipper, October 17, 1885, p. 484.
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Batcheller & Doris - 1879
Batcheller & Doris' Greatest Railroad Show on Earth. Having purchased the entire Campbell Show, now wintering at North East, Pa., consisting of forty cages of animals, the elephant Empress, its large and comprehensive museum, automatic and mechanical institute, tents, wardrobe, properties, housings, trappings, ring horses, ponies. A palace train of forty cars, passenger and sleeping coaches, etc. We intend to refit, enlarge and place this show on the road early in April., with twenty times its former attractions. It will have more exclusive specialties and be superior to any railroad show in the country. Wanted, performers of acknowledged reputation in all branches of the profession. Also living curiosities of all descriptions. Address Batcheller & Doris, Great Western Hotel, Philadelphia. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, March 1, 1879, p. 387.
Batcheller & Doris' Great Railroad Show, Circus, and Menagerie, Batcheller & Doris, proprietors, is now organizing in North East, Pa., and will open April 28 in Erie. They will travel by rail with twenty-three of their own cars. Number of cages, 23, two tableau cars, one elephant. Company - Romeo Sebastian, equestrian; Scarfer, Russian equestrian; Mollie Brown, equestrienne; Madam Brown, manege; Mille Etta, contortionist; Pete Conklin, James Ward and Arthur Johnson, clowns; Cardella and Victorelli, gymnasts; the Siegrist Children, acrobats. Managerial staff: Andrew Springer, railroad contractor; Chas. Castle, general agent; Harry Cordova, press agent; George Stratton, bandmaster. Privileges run by the management. Concert: Harrington and Johnson, Dutch comedians; Sam Martin, one-legged song-and-dance man; Dick Turner, Irish comedian; Nellie Montrose(?), serio-comic; Mlle. Ettie, songstress. Sideshow: the Wild Australian Children, an Albino, a Circassian, Spaff Himan, wizard, a two-headed child and a musuem collection. New York Clipper, March 29, 1879, p. 7.
Batcheller & Doris' Railroad Show, Museum, Menagerie and Circus open their season in North East, Pa., April 26. Charles H. Castle is the advertising agent. Twenty-five cents will be charged for admission to the entire show. New York Clipper, April 26, 1879, p. 39.
Isaac Givens, who has been staying in Newton, N.J., during the winter, will join Batcheller & Doris April 27, to travel with that show. New York Clipper, May 3, 1879, p. 47.
Batcheller & Doris are now showing for fifty cents. Romeo Sebastian, equestrian, joined them lately. New York Clipper, August 30, 1879, p. 183.
Batcheller & Doris' Circus is to close its season in Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 1. Alexi Scafar, Russian bareback rider, closes a season of twenty-seven weeks with Batcheller & Doris' Circus Nov. 1, and sails from New York for Paris, France. New York Clipper, November 1, 1879, p. 251.
The Batcheller & Doris Show is wintering in Kansas City. George Batcheller is at the Hot Springs, John B. Doris is at Philadelphia, and Alexis Scarfar, equestrian is in this city [New York], but contemplates an early departure for Paris. New York Clipper, November 15, 1879, p. 267.
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Bates & Allen - 1918
The Bates & Allen Shows is the title of a new two-car circus being organized by Ernest Latimore in Philadelphia. Tom Aiton will be in charge of the advance. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 27.
Wanted for Bates & Allen Shows, opening at Manassas, Va., June 19, a two-car circus show. Performers, clowns, band leader and musicians, trap drummer, magician, midway dancers, troupe of dogs, assistant boss canvasman, property men, light man, ticket sellers and candy butchers. Frankfurter and photo privilege for sale. Want two billposters. Address Earnest Latimore, Manassas, Va. [Advertisement] Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 61.
1919: The Bates & Allen Circus was a two-car organization that was to have opened in Manassas, Va., last June some time, under the management of Ernest Latimore - but it never did. Billboard, May 10, 1919, p. 53.
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Bayne's - 1908-09, 1914
1909: Wanted performers and six or eight piece band. Eat on lot, sleep hotels. Show now on road. Jas. T. Bayne, care Bayne's 20 Wagon Shows, Brownwood, Texas. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 13, 1909, p. 19.
1908: The entire equipment of the Bayne Wagon Show is being repainted and redecorated for their fall and winter season. New acts are also being added and everything put into first class shape. During the past two years the show has covered eight states and territories and has made good everywhere. The company will reopen in September, for a tour of the South. Billboard, September 5, 1908, p. XIV.
1914: Bayne's Dog & Pony Show - Jas. T. Bayne, proprietor and manager; Leland Bayne, assistant manager; Mrs. Jas. T. Bayne, treasurer and secretary; E. M. Jarman, general agent; Willie Wilkins, equestrian director; Leland Bayne, superintendent privileges; J. Bank Ferry [Perry?]; musical director; Ada J. Bayne, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Dad Carson, superintendent canvas; Carl Herren, boss hostler; Will Bickers, superintendent commissary department Joe Welsh, superintendent lights; Chas. Pyles, superintendent props; Carl Herren, superintendent stock; Dad Carson, superintendent working crew; Jas. T. Bayne, announcer. Show opens about April 1. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Bays Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1935
Show had winter quarters in Sullivan, Indiana. Bandwagon, August, 1956, p. 8.
The show opened May 8, 1935, and closed on July 6. It re-opened August 16 under the Rice Bros. title. More information on 1935 Bays Bros. - Fred Bays, Lee Bays and Harold Bays - is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1983, Vol. 27, No. 4, pp. 10-13.
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Beach & Bowers - 1888, 1892
1888: Beach & Bowers' Grand Tent Shows are coming to Fayette on July 18th. 30 people and all performres. Prof. Gleason's dog and pony circus is worth the price of admission. Children 15 cents, adults 25 cents. Iowa Postal Card (Fayette, IA), July 14, 1888, n.p.n.
1892: Wanted at once, musicians for Beach & Bowers Circus and Menagerie, also lady performers who can double in concert. Address Beach & Bowers, Brown's Hotel, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 256.
Manquoketa is not alone in her circus disappointments. Beach & Bowers wagon circus was billed for Bellevue and Sabula last Tuesday and Wednesday but got stuck in the mud and failed to meet engagements. Jackson Sentinel (Maquoketa, IA), July 14, 1892, p. 1.
Beach & Bowers, the minstrel men who have a host of friends in Waterloo, started on the road with a circus in May. The boys have been playing to hard luck and the sheriff took charge of the outfit at Morrison, Illinois, last Friday. The Dubuque Telegraph, which is published at the old home of Beach & Bowers, says: "The failure will occasion no surprise in Dubuque for it was known here that Beach & Bowers had been unfortunate enough to get into the heart of the rain belt in May and June. They were no doubt very heavy losers these two months and even since then business has been poor. They laid up in Dubuque the last week in June, played here July 2d and 4th and then started with their wagons for Illinois. All they earned in the minstrel business has no doubt gone into the circus." Daily Courier (Waterloo, IA), July 16, 1892.
Beach & Bowers' circus was unable to fill its engagement at Dixon, Ills., because the sheriff of Whiteside county levied on the outfit at Morrison. Daily Review (Decatur, IL), July 16, 1892.
Wm. S. Gilbert and John ___, of the disbanded Beach & Bowers' Circus, wish to thank the members of the Gollmar Bros.' Show for financial assistance. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
The Amphions, who are on the lookout for all first-class musicians, are to be congratulated in securing the services of Mr. G. C. Sherwin, once a member of Beach and Bowers Minstrel band. . . . Mr. Sherwin arrived in the city on Wednesday and will at once take his place among the Amphions where he will play a clarionet. Stevens Point Journal (Stevens Point, WI), September 3, 1892, n.p.n.
[By September 15, the Beach & Bowers minstrel show was playing Maquoketa, Iowa.] Jackson Sentinel (Maquoketa, IA), September 15, 1892, p. 1.
1895: C. L. Kellogg of Red Wing, Minn., is at the Wylie Park house, as companion to a gentleman of the same place, who is being treated for cancer . . . Mr. Kellog is the contracting agent for the Beach & Bowers Spectacular and Famous Minstrel company. He has held the position for the past six years. The gentlemen composting the minstrel company are former Romans. The senior member is "Andy" Gardner, as he was known to his friends before he took to burnt cork and assumed the stage name of Bobby Beach. The junior member, has no nom de pume, but does business on and off the stage under the name of Otis Bowers. Mr. Kellog told a representative of the Evening Citizen some things about the career of the former Romans for the past few years. "This is the eleventh year," said the agent, "of the partnership, or team work, of Beach and Bowers. They formerly traveled with such minstrel companies as Barlow, Wilson, Primrose & West, Hi Henry and others . . . Beach was always handy with the bones and did a pedestal clog act that made him famous, and Bowers was an adept with the tambourine. . . . The proprietors used to wear seal skin overcoats that cost $475 apiece and carry heavy gold headed canes at the head of their parade. Of course the big diamonds and silk hats were always in it, too. They cut a great figure. Aside from their end business, Beach does a silence and fun act and Bowers gives a good specialty with his trained dogs. . . . Three years ago Beach and Bowers bought a circus and put it on the road. It was called 'Beach & Bowers' Golden Circus and Menagerie and Trained Animal Exhibition.' Misfortune tied to it at the very start and could not be shaken off. It rained almost continuously from spring until fall along the route, bridges washed away, show grounds were flooded, and the boys had a hard time of it. They lost money in the venture, and gave up the circus business. They will stick to minstrelsy in the future." Rome Evening Citizen (Rome, NY), June 22, 1895, p. 1.
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Clyde Beatty Circus ticket wagon, undated, photo courtesy of Conover collection.
Clyde Beatty Circus - 1946, 1954 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1941-42, 1945-1958
• An article on the 1945 Clyde Beatty Trained Wild Animal Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 6, pp. 4-17.
List of acts on the 1946 Clyde Beatty show is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1960 (scroll down or use find).
The 1946 program is online in Bandwagon, Sep-Oct 1970 (scroll down or use find).
Also see an article on the 1946 show in Bandwagon, May-June, Vol. 14, No. 3, 1970, pp. 25-31.
Route for the 1954 show is online in Bandwagon, April 1955 (scroll down).
• Articles on the 1956 Clyde Beatty Circus are in Bandwagon, March-April, 1979, Vol. 23, No. 2, pp. 19-24, and in Bandwagon, May-June, 1979, Vol. 23, No. 3, pp. 11-19.
• An article on the 1946-1956 shows is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 6, pp. 27-29.
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Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. - 1962 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1959-
Article on the 1962 Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. show is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1962 (scroll down or use find).
• An article on the Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus winterquarters at Deland, Florida, circa 1956-1960s, is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1986, Vol. 30, No. 6, pp. 41-46.
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Clyde Beatty-Russell Bros. - 1944 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1944
Arthur Concello, proprietor. The menagerie had a mule, horses and Shetland ponies, two llamas, four semi-trailers of Clyde Beatty's cats, lions and tigers, trained chimpanzees, monkeys, two camels and a herd of nine elephants. The big top was a 4 pole, three rings. Throughout the big top were the initial "TM," which indicates it formerly belonged to the cowboy star, Tom Mix. Admission was adults, $1, childred 60 cents, reserved seats, $1. See the program for the 1944 show, online in Bandwagon, April 1944 (scroll down).
Articles, with photographs, of the 1944 show are in Bandwagon, May-June, Vol. 13, No. 3, 1969, pp. 10-19; and in White Tops, April-May, 1944, Vol. 17, Nos. 5-6, pp. 7-8.
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Beaumont's Pavilion Show Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888
Call for engaged personnel to report at Owego, New York on May 22. New York Clipper, May 19, 1888, p. 162. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Beckett's Lake Michigan Circus - 1881 Beckett's Great Exposition Circus, Beckett's Exposition Circus & Roman Amphitheater
Toured the Great Lakes on the steamer, "Granite State." A. A. Beckett, sole proprietor. Show boat attached in July. New York Clipper, April 2, 1881, p. 26; July 30, 1881, p. 306. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Beckett's Railroad Circus - 1884, 1887
1884: A. Boone, contortionist, joins the show. Signor F. R. Blitz has the privileges on the show. New York Clipper, June 21, 1884, p. 222.
1887: Miles Orton with the show. Chas. Haysted is ringmaster. Former employee, Prof. E. H. Dooley, died at Miles Orton's home at Norris, Michigan. Mr. & Mrs. Dan Nash and Hoon Family joined the show. Show came to an untimely end on April 14. New York Clipper, April 9, 1887, p. 51; April 16, 1887, p. 68; April 23, 1887, p. 87; May 28, 1887, p. 167.
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A. A. Beckett's Hippodrome Circus - 1886
These people are engaged for A. A. Beckett's Hippodrome Circus for the season of 1886: J. E. Nobles, agent, with eight assistants; Eugene Gilmon, Ed. Morris, George Richardson, Alexis E. Scafar, John Lambert, Mons. Larabeto, William Mayo with six trained horses, Billy Andrews, Nelson Sinclair's dog-circus, Jean Earle, Samuel Dock, Harry Eldon, Willie Ash, Louis Alfreddo, John Sloman, Lee,Juggler, Three Alberts. Sideshow — John Kelly, manager; Ben Bowman, Chas. Smith and goats, Dr. Lynn, Punch-and-Judy and sleight-of-hand; Circassian; Mlle. Bowman, snake-charmer; Millie Scafar, half-lady; Michigan Giant. Master of canvas, Chas. Rhoades; Prof. Chas. C. Chase, with band- of ten men. The show opens May 1. New York Clipper, March 20 or 27, 1886. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Walter Beckwith's Circus
Utica, N.Y., April 18. 20th Century Shows opened this week. New attractions have been added to the show. One special attraction is Walter Beckwith's big Wild Animal Show, featuring six performing lions. . . . Billboard, April 29, 1922, p. 115.
New York, Dec. 6. Walter Percy Beckwith, owner of Walter Beckwith's Circus, died Aug. 8, left an estate of $12,000 to his foster son, Howard Lane Jenkins, of San Francisco. His widow, Mdeline L. Beckwith, Los Angeles, a crack rifle shot, was not mentioned. She was reported to be on good terms with the testator. Syracuse Journal (Syracuse, NY), December 6, 1927, p. 24.
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Beebe Bros. Circus - 1945 Show is listed for 1947 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Franklin Grove. Beebe Bros. Circus. The big tent was set up on the Henry Spangler lot and one performance was given Monday evening. Their acts include trained lions, bears, ponies, dogs and mules. Mr. Herbert is manager for the company and the troup has had winter quarters and training grounds on the Frank Haentisch farm east of Franklin Grove. Dixon Evening Telegraph (Dixon, IL), June 20, 1945, p. 3. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Beers-Barnes Circus - 1963 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1932-1966
Article on 1963 the Beers-Barnes Circus is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1963 (scroll down or use find).
• Articles on the history of the Beers-Barnes Circus, the Barnes family and their shows are in:
Bandwagon, September-October, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 5, pp. 4-13.
Bandwagon, November-December, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 6, pp. 34-45.
Bandwagon, January-February, 1995, Vol. 39, No. 1, pp. 18-27.
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G. W. Beggs - 1852
Charles Bolus was with the G. W. Beggs Show in 1852. The show transported all its property on mule back, and the performers and other employes walked. Billboard, April 22, 1905, p. 18.
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Belford - 1893-1896
Howard, Slentz & Belford Shows, Burton & Belford's Show, G. W. Belford's Circus
1893: Wanted at once, acrobats and concert people, those that double in band preferred. Address Howard & Slentz's United Shows, St. Paris, Ohio. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 292.
1893: Roster and notes, Howard, Slentz & Belford's Shows. Howard, Slentz and Belford, sole owners and managers; Geo. and Millie Belford, Wheeler, contortionists; Mme. Adelpho(?), Mamie Belford, Sig. Beldine, Sullivan and McGowan, Billie Richards, Harry Heacke(?), the Four La Gardos(?), Ringold Brothers, Allie Turner, J. Tribue(?); Prof. Ed. Beard, advance with six people, seven grooms and eight canvas men. . . . side show with the following roster: Prof. De Leon in charge, the two De Leons, Prof. Rolla, Lady Ineze, Amiee (snakes), four illusions and Buckskin Charlie orator in chief. We have two good bands under the leadership of Prof. Richards, fifty-two head of good draught horses, and the "ghost" is healthy. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
1894: Wanted, for Burton & Belford's New Wagon Shows. Double bar man, who can tumble; knockabout clown, contortion troupe of trick dogs, lady artists in all branches, long haired lady, tattooded lady, in fact, people in all branches. Concert people, musicians, advance agent, billposters, boss hostler and drivers. Address Burton & Belford, Montpielier, Ind. New York Clipper, February 3, 1894, p. 776.
1894: Notes from Burton & Belford's New Consolidated 25 Cent Shows, Free Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. We are very busy getting everything in shape for our opening May 10(?). We will travel by wagons, with sixty head of stock. . . . All of the trapping will be new, making it one of the neatest wagons shows on the road. People engaged so far are the Burton Athletes (three in number); the Belfords, George and Mollie; W. R. and Vida Jones; Chas. O. Morrison; Prof. Chas. White; Chas. Ellett(?); Lora Elson; Ma?sie Burton; Sullivan and Wheeler; the Hobson Bros.; and William Mincer. W. J. Morgan will be general contracting agent, with five assistants; Prof. A. C. Lloyd, musical director, with his uniformed band of all solo artists. Manager Belford has just added a car load of fine horses for the show, and has purchased six Shetland ponies. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
1894: Notes from Burton & Belford's New Consolidated 25 Cent Shows, Free Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. We are very busy getting everything in shape for our opening May 10(?). We will travel by wagons, with sixty head of stock. . . . All of the trapping will be new, making it one of the neatest wagons shows on the road. People engaged so far are the Burton Athletes (three in number); the Belfords, George and Mollie; W. R. and Vida Jones; Chas. O. Morrison; Prof. Chas. White; Chas. Ellett(?); Lora Elson; Ma?sie Burton; Sullivan and Wheeler; the Hobson Bros.; and William Mincer. W. J. Morgan will be general contracting agent, with five assistants; Prof. A. C. Lloyd, musical director, with his uniformed band of all solo artists. Manager Belford has just added a car load of fine horses for the show, and has purchased six Shetland ponies. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
1894: Wanted, for Burton & Belford's New Shows, a few more male and female specialty people who can do two or more turns. One solo B flat cornet who doubles on violin. Address Burton & Belford, Montpelier, Blackford Co., Ind. P.S. Candy stand to rent. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 32.
1894: Call. All people engaged report not later than May 8, at Summit, Ind. Wanted, a few more people to strengthen big show, ladies preferred. Address Burton & Belford, Summit, Dekalb Co., Ind. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 124.
1896: Belford Circus notes. The Winter quarters are at present a busy sight. With new wagons and chariots on the way to the paint room, they will certainly look handsome in all white and gold leaf. Molly Belford is busy arranging the new band uniform, also the wardrobe. Mr. Belford and Fred Howell are ___ a new act in the way of Mexican ladder and head balancing, with a giant swing(?) by the feet. Mr. Belford's sister, Katie, will do the flying rings this season. Florence Smith will have charge of wardrobe. Mrs. Belford will act as treasurer, Prof. O. Y. Burr leader of band and assistant manager. The people engaged so far are: Fred Howell, J. B. Earley, Wood Alexander, Newton Moler(Muler?), Russel Alexander, O. V. Burr, ___ and Florence Smith. New York Clipper, February 1, 1896, p. 761.
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Bell Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1923, 1940-42, 1945-46, 1954-57
• An article on the 1945-46 Bell Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 6, pp. 38-43.
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Bellmar Bros., 1947, Camden, Ohio, photo courtesy of Conover collection.
Bellmar Bros. - 1947, 1949
1947: Bellmar Bros. at Camden, Ohio, the night performance drew a full house. Dogs and ponies are featured. Billboard, June 14, 1947, p. 79.
1947: Bellmar Bros. Circus was at Middle Point, Ohio, June 14. The Harter family were with the show. Billboard, June 28, 1947, p. 76.
1949: Koony MaLoon was with the Bellmar Bros. show in 1949. Billboard, January 15, 1949, p. 65.
• Undated advertisement. Bellmar Brothers Circus featured the aerial Townsends, trapeze and high carrying perch acts. Also had balancing monkeys and ladders, funny clowns. Ringling Museum of Art, Tibbals Digital Collection.
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Belmont Elite - 1889, 1890 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888-1890
1889: R. S. Dingess, the veteran agent and hero of the “Black Hawk War, is now with the Belmont Show, whose leading artist is Daisy Belmont, a most promising young equestrienne. This circus has been exhibiting in the outskirts of Chicago for several weeks, ten cent being the price of admission. New York Clipper, August 3, 1889,p. 340.
1889: Items from the Belmont Elite Circus. Mrs. Belmont, who got her foot badly mashed some time ago, is able to be in the ring once more. Mr. Belmont is making a big hit with his trained dogs. C. C. Matthews, slack rope performer, and Jessie Dair, gymnast and iron jaw lady, joined Sept. 6. We are having nice weather, and are doing big business. Have not decided about going South this winter. Daisy Belmont is receiving applause for her clever riding. The ghost does not miss a weekly round. Geo. Rice is the popular treasurer. New York Clipper, September 21, 1889, p. 460.
1889: The Belmont Elite Show closed Oct. 8, with a happy event – the marriage of Wm. Showles, the rider of Sells Brothers’ Shows, and Daisy Belmont, of this show. After the evening performance, the friends of the couple assembled at their rooms in the hotel, where champagne flowed freely and a pleasant time was had until a late hour. The happy couple started in the morning for New York City, to join Barnum & Bailey for their tour across the water. The Belmont Show has had a successful season, the ghost walking regularly Saturday nights. Mrs. Belmont has had the confidence of all, and has worked for the welfare of her employes. She is making arrangements for her trip South. Most of the company go to Chicago to rest for a few weeks, and then get ready for their southern trip. New York Clipper, October 19, 1889, p. 541.
1890: Demonto(?), contortionist, has signed to go with Belmont's Elite Circus for the coming season. This will make his third season with that show. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 781.
1890: Belmont's Elite Circus, Museum and Menagerie, newly equipped and enlarged, will begin its third season early next month, with a preliminary engagement, at Chicago. The executive staff includes: Chas. Belmont, owner and proprietor; E. D. Colvin, general manager; . . . H. Millard(?), advance agent; C. C. Matthews, equestrian director . . . The performers engaged are: Mons. Natalie, . . . the De Barr Family, . . . Albert Richards and others. . . . clown elephant; . . . trick ponies and a troupe of performing dogs have also been secured. The show will travel by wagons. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 7.
1890: Wanted, for Belmont's Museum, Caravan and Circus. Newly equipped and enlarged for 1890. People in all branches of the profession. Riders, gymnasts, concert and sideshow people and curiosities. Also some billposters. Also a boss canvasman. E. D. Colvin, business manager, Leland Hotel, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 13.
1890: Wanted, for Belmont's New Shows, a Three Brother act team that can do bar act or work on bars. E. D. Colvin, Leland Hotel, Chicago, Ill. For sale, one second hand 100ft. round top, two thirty foot middle pieces, also three baggage wagons, cheap. Address as above. Call all people engaged for Belmont's Shows report at ___ West Monroe Street, Chicago, show opens April 30(?). New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 110.
1890: Wanted, for the Belmont Shows, sideshow orator, magician, Punch and Judy and curiosities, song and dance lady that can ride in entree; also experienced boss hostler. Address E. D. Colvin, care of Empire Printing Hosue, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 143.
1890: Henry Millard, late of the Belmont Show, which stranded at Darlington(?), Wis., several weeks ago, is now at his home, Corry(?), Pa. New York Clipper, July 26, 1890, p. 307.
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Bennett Shows - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909
Bennett Shows - Billy Bennett, prop.; B. Bennett and Howard Macy, mgrs.; Bert Taylor, general agent & R. R. contractor. Mr. and Mrs. H. R. Macy, cooks. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
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Bennett's North American - 1856
North American Circus. H. Bennett, proprietor. H. O. Lee, nanager. This new and extensive equestrian troupe, (embracing the best talent in the State,) will have the honor of appearing for two nights only, 10th and 11th October. All the novelties of the arena may be confidently anticipated; and the proprietor is determined to spare no expense in rendering his establishment par excellence the Circus Troupe of California. Prices of admission — Dress circle, $2; Pit, $1. Doors open at 7 — to commence at 7 1/2 o'clock. Alexander Agent. Sacramento Daily Union, October 8, 1856, p. 3.
On Tuesday, Nov. llth, Mr. Bennett and Mr. Alexander, of the North American Circus, were driving down the Tower House Hill, in Shasta county, when the pole strap of their buggy broke and the horses dashed down the hill. They were brought up by running into another buggy, which contained a lady. No persons were injured. Sacramento Daily Union, November 17, 1856.
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Capt. Bennett's - 1895 Show listed for 1895-1896 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses
Capt. Jesse Bennett's Equine and Canine Paradox will appear at the Grand opera house four nights, commencing February 6th. Every horse, pony and dog has been born and reared within the city limits of San Antonio. Two years have been spent by Captain Bennett in the training of these animals. Captain Bennett is one of San Antonio's popular citizens and officers, and has years of experience in this line. He had a circus on the road in 1890 and has been connected with similar enterprises for a number of years back. The total number of horses, ponies and dogs reach sixty. Capt. Bennett will make a street parade and display his dogs and ponies. San Antonio Daily Light (San Antonio, TX), February 4, 1895, p. 1.
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J. A. Bennett & Co.'s Grand Circus Royal - 1890
Miles) Berry has resigned as agent of the Dieffenbach Show, on account of accepting the position offered him as general agent of J. A. Bennett & Co.'s Grand Circus Royal. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
J. A. Bennett & Co. Grand Circus Royal. Wanted, performers in all branches of the circus business. Riders, male and female, with their own stock. Band of seven(?) mouthpieces and two drums, boss canvasman . . . chandelier and property man. Wanted to buy. Combination band wagon, cross cages and ___ heavy(?) baggage wagons. Buy or rent, a sleeper, . . . flat car. Address W. B. Pomeroy, manager, St. James Hotel, St. Louis, Mo. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 380.
St. Louis, Missouri. . . . J. A. Bennett & Co. are fitting out a circus here to be billed J. A. Bennett & Co.'s Circus Royal. J. A. Bennett & Co., sole proprietors; W. H. Pomeroy, manger, and Miles Berry, general agent. New York Clipper, September 6, 1890, p. 403.
Notes from the Bennett Show. J. A. Bennett & Co.'s Grand Circus Royal will soon take the road for a trip through Southern states during the winter, starting from St. Louis, about the middle of September. W. H. Pomeroy is the manager, Miles Berry and Harry Overton are at St. Louis, busily engaged in the preparatory work. The company will be a one ring show, and of the old time order. Some of the best people in the profession have been engaged. Everything will be brand new, and of a beautiful carmine hue. We have also received some of the best fair dates. A most profitable season is looked for. We will use all our own special cars. A troupe of clever trained stallions and two trick donkeys, will be chief features, and will be performed under the direction of Mr. Bennett. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 420.
Call. All people engaged with the J. A. Bennett & Co.'s Grand Circus Royal will report at . . . San Antonio, Texas, . . . W. H. Pomeroy, manger. New York Clipper, September 20, 1890, p. 444.
J. A. Bennett & Co.'s Grand Circus Royal will open its season at San Antonio, Tex., Sept. 27. It will be a good old fashioned one ring circus. Among the people engaged are old Peter Conklin, ___, Field and Bowen, Alexis ___, Arthur Gill(?), Vennett and Boynton and their troupe of educated bronchos, including the celebrated leaping horses, Wichita, Daisy and Blondin. Everything around and about the show will be new, clean and bright, transported by a train of six cars. The show will remain out all winter, exhibiting in the principal cities of the South. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 468.
St. Louis, Missouri. Pete Conklin, the well known clown, was in the city last week. He has left the Diefenbach Show, and will join James A. Bennett's Show at San Antonio, Tex. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 471.
J. A. Bennett & Co.'s Grand Circus Royal opened at San Antonio, Tex., Sept. 27, to excellent business. The audience was composed mainly of the aristocracy of the city. Promptly at eight o'clock Miles Berry, general agent, stepped into the sawdust circus, and, amid storms of applause, delivered a brief and eloquent inaugural speech, also introducing manager Bennett. The latter, amid cheers and applause, made a few remarks, after which the programme commenced with the old time eight horse entree and grand tournament around the hippodrome track. The next ovation of applause occurred when "Old Pete" Conklin, the veteran clown, made his appearance. It furnished positive proof that Mr. Conklin was no stranger to the San Antonio people. He had his first appearance before them, by the way, over thirty two years ago. Baby Venus(?), the child aerialist, proved to be a feature, gracefully accomplishing the most difficult feats on the trapeze. Mlle. R??ina Venus made a decided hit in her principal act, and ___, the Russian bareback rider, in his bounding jockey act, gained round after round of applause. Eddys and Meeker also won much commendation for their midair evolutions. Bennett's equine wonders were cheered at every turn, their military drill and parade rest being pronounced the finest ever seen at San Antonio. Sam Joseph, of the Robinson Show; Ed. Davis, of the Wallace Show, and Pete Sells, of the Sells Bros.' Show, are numbered among the guests that have witnessed the initial performance. Business has been phenomenal ever since our opening, and the show is conceded to be a great success. W. H. Pomeroy, business manager, and Miles Berry, general agent, certainly deserve the congratulations daily bestowed upon them. The show remains at San Antonio until Oct. 13(?), when it starts on an extensive Southern tour. New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 503.
On the Road, Circuses and Miscellaneous: Circus Royal, New Orleans, La., Nov. 24-29. New York Clipper, November 29, 1890, p. 595.
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Bensley's Royal Pavilion - 1886
Advertises for gymnasts and concert people at Belleville, Ontario. Show recently purchased by H. L. Montford. Show closed on October 2 at Collingwood, Canada, due to snow. Will run a hall show known as Royal Mastodons. New York Clipper, June 5, 1886, p. 191; October 9, 1886, p. 475. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Bentley’s - 1895, 1918 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, ca. 1880-1915
1895:
Notes from Bentley's Old Fashioned Country Circus. We moved from the East side of this city to our present location, Fifty-ninth(?) Street and Eighth Avenue, Aug. 17, and gave our first performance here 19, to a corking house. Robert Whittaker, our equestrian manager, has everything running in fine shape. Our new attractions this week are: Martinho Lowande and son, Oscar, his first appearance in New York in many years. His two horse carrying act is a fine addition to the show. John Foster, the veteran clown and jester, also made his first appearance 19, and was well received. The three Judge Brothers, in their act, are way up in G. G. Willie(?) Edwards, the South American wonder, is also among the new arrivals, and made a big hit. Daddago, the Russian equilibrist, and the Braatz Sister, are what they claim to be, European novelties. Prof. John White and his pony and trick mule has come to make a two week's stay. The Le Vans still remain with us, and we think they are doing the act of their lives. The Austin Sisters have made a decided hit in their sensational aerial act. Annie, the human fly, is one of the princiapl attractions of our show. Frank Kennebel is as funny as ever, and Lew Whittaker, clown, comes in for his share of applause. Addie O'Brien, slack wire performer, still remains. Pauline Carre is riding better than ever. Mlle. Zarah and Nicholas ___ continue with us. On our opening night here a delegation of horsemen from riding academies were prominent spectators, occupying private boxes as guests of Robert Whittaker. When Mr. Whittaker entered the ring to do his act, he received a great reception. Col. E. Daniel Boone and his four performing lions are a big drawing attraction. Mr. Bentley purchased the entire outfit of the Irwin Brothers Show and stowed it away - a 100ft. round top, 50ft. middle piece, ten wagons and all ___. New York Clipper, August 24, 1895, p. 386.
1918:
Wanted for Bentley's Wagon Show. Pianist, comedian, juggler and novelty act. Prefer man who can make announcements. Address C. A. Bentley, Bethel, O., June 20; Hamersville 21; Felicity 22; Higginsport 24. [Advertisement] Billboard, June 22, 1918, p. 2.
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Bently’s - 1901
Bently's circus will exhibit at Landeck on August 1st. A balloon ascention will be given at 4 p.m., by a lady aeronaut. Daily Herald (Delphos, OH), July 9, 1901, p. 1.
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Bernard's - 1901
"Bernard's Mammoth and Mastodon Aggregation" is said to be the name of a circus which arrived in the city from Australia on the Sonoma yesterday. There are the usual features, and an effort will be made to get up a tent and give performances. Hawaiian Gazette (Honolulu, HI), October 11, 1901, p. 4.
Bernard's circus gave exhibitions during the week at Spreckelsville and Pala to full houses. The exhibition of trained dogs was the best ever seen on Maui. Hawaiian Gazette (Honolulu, HI), December 3, 1901, p. 6.
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Berry's London Museum & Circus - 1885 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1885
Closed at Medicine Lodge, Kansas on September 2, due to bad business. New York Clipper, September 19, 1885, p. 424. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Berry & Sutherland's Oriental Circus and Palace Pavilion Railroad Shows - 1894 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1894
Notes from the Berry & Sutherland Oriental Circus and Palace Pavilion Shows. - This is the first and only circus that was ever organized in the copper country of Lake Superior, and still the distance from Chicago is but 300 miles. Everything is progressing in first class order and we will open in Red Jacket about he middle of May. This new organization will be under the personal supervision of Miles Berry, the well known circus agent and manager, who has been associated with the executive staff of the different leading circuses of America for hte past twenty-three years. The show will be transported on its own special train. The first annual tour will be a season of forty weeks from the opening date, and during that time the show will be taken through the best territory in the United States and the provinces of Canada. Many new and original ideas will be brought into execution, both in advertising and performance. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 103.
Wanted, performers in every branch of the circus business, who can do two or more acts; a good singing and talking clown; . . . concert people who can play drums, boss canvas man, chandelier man and working people. Also a hustling agent and billposters. To let, sideshow and candy stands. Address Miles Berry, manager, Red Jacket, Mich. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 111.
Notes from Miles Berry's Oriental Circus and Palace Railroad Shows. Everything is ready and complete for the opening, which will take place May 19(?). This show is the pride of the copper country, and proves to be a great surprise to the natives who toil under the ground in the mammoth copper mines. As this is the first and only circus that ever organized in copper country, it is a great curiosity to the good people of this vicinity to know how it can be done, and there is not a man, woman or child who is not anxiously waiting to hear the band play. Among the recent engagements are the Three Girdelles(?), contortionists, pantomimists and high kickers; the Harmans, aerial artists; Baker Bros., acrobats and hat spinners; La Marti?e, juggler; Perry and Ellsworth, novelty concert team; and Major Hyde, the lightning gun drill artists. The people are coming in from the North, South, East and West. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.
On the road, circuses: Miles Berry's, Red Jacket MI May 19-22, Osceola 25, 26. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.
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Betts' - 1885-86 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1885-86
Bett's "One-Paugh" circus had a hard time here. It is a small affair, but good what there is of it. Freeborn County Standard (Albert Lea, MN), September 9, 1885, n.p.n.
The people engaged so far for J. C. Betts' Excelsior Pavilion Show are: J. C. Betts, proprietor and manager; Ed. Franlando, equestrian director; Kriz Bros., gymnasts; Fred Spencer, rope dancer; Gilbert Bros., Johnny Erwin (flying trapeze), Ed. Kriz, Minnie Johnson, Wm. Snell, Bessie Green, Jessie Betts, Fannie Betts and Eddy Fralando. The show has twelve wagons and thirty horses, and will leave Postville, Ia., in April. New York Clipper, April 3, 1886, p. 36.
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Beveridge's Wildest West - 1895 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1895
Note: In The Montana Cree: A Study in Religious Persistence (University of Oklahoma Press, 1962, p. 36), author Verne Dusenberry states that this show was framed by two Helena, Montana men, Davenport and Beveridge, using Cree Indians as their main attraction. The Ringling Bros. 1899 route book states that C. L. Beveridge was associated with this show.
Wanted, for Beveridge's Montana Wildest West, great special feature, and troupe of Arabs for big show. Side show attractions, concert specialties, cowboy band, bosses in all departments. Address E. D. Colvin, manager, 75 Plymouth Place, Chicago, Ill. Also 50 experienced billposters, lithographers and progarmmers, and bugle brigade. Apply to W. C. Boyd, general agent, 75 Plymouth Place, Chicago, Ill. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, March 2, 1895, p. 836.
A letter from Greensboro, Ind., signed by members of Beveridge's Montana Wildest West, reads as follows: "Beveridge's Montana Wildest West closed here today (June 20) on account of bad business. The company did not pay one cent of wages, leaving the performers and working men in very bad shape. Most did not have enough money to get out of town. A collection was taken up, and Allie Webb ordered his men to unload his wagons and put up his tents, and he also furnished meat, bread, butter and coffee for the hungry men. After supper was over one was selected to thank Allie for his kindness. The trouble is not yet settled. Most all of the performers and band left for Chicago last night, but the working men are still here, waiting for their pay." New York Clipper, June 29, 1895, p. 261.
Cincinnati, June 24. Beveridge's Wild West Show stranded here last week, and among the people connected with it was a large camp of Cree Indians. They were in desparate straits, without food, money. Manager Heck conceived the idea of having them camp for the Summer on the slopes of the Zoo. Now upwards of one hundred Indians have erected their wigwams, and will live in them during the season. Next week they will give performances. New York Dramatic Mirror (New York, NY), June 29, 1895, p. 10.
New Castle, Indiana. Beveridge's Montana Wild West, announced to appear in New Castle, was temporarily stranded at Greensburg by reason of incorrigible Indians and a Sheriff's attachment. New York Dramatic Mirror (New York, NY), July 6, 1895, p. 6.
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Beverung Bros. - 1912, 1914 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1912-14
1912: Beverung Brothers, two popular young theatrical men of Milwaukee, connected with the Majestic Theatre, on the Orpheum Circuit, are making preparations for a show which they will put on the road June 10. The Three Irwins, slack wire contortion and head balancing artists; J. W. Whiteley's dogs and ponies, and Sampson, the strong man, have already signed contracts with them. They contemplate putting this show on in the larger cities. New York Clipper, March 30, 1912, p. 8.
1912: The ill-fated Beverung Bros. Circus, that played Milwaukee last spring to good business for several weeks, then took to the jungles to go broke at Eagle, Wis., will again take to the road next spring. Billboard, November 16, 1912, p. 51.
1914: Milwaukee, Wis., June 17. The Beverung Brothers' Shows began their third annual season here on Saturday, and the main top, with a capacity of 1,500 people, was filled practically to capacity, in spite of constant rain. The Five Vavarros, wire act; Corrigan's herd of trained goats and Carlo's ponies and dogs are features. The Daring Delavans, breakaway ladder act; Johnny Ford and Fred Manske, contortionists and balancers, and the Marvelous Marlottes, aerialists, are with the show. Prof. Anton Musial's band is part of it. The show will remain in and about the suburbs of Milwaukke practically the entire two months it is stated to be out. The show was incorporated last week for $10,000. Robert H. Beverung, Edwin Beverrung and Harry E. Billings are the incorporators. The show has been leased to the city of Butler, Wis., for July 4th. Billboard, June 27, 1914, p. 30.
1914: H. E. Billings, press agent of the Beverung Bros. Shows, which were wrecked by a wind storm in Milwaukee, Wis., writes that preparations are being made for the 1915 season, when they will put out an all new outfit. Billboard, August 1, 1914, p. 21.
Brief information on this show is in Fred Dahlinger, Jr. & Stuart Thayer, Badger State Showmen, Baraboo, WI: Circus World Museum, 1998, p. 115.
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Bingley & Stevens - 1890 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1890
The Bingley & Stevens Show was placed in the hands of a receiver at Atlanta, Ga. . . . New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 23.
Sheriff's Sale of show property at Mayfield, Kentucky, Oct. 22. Suit in favor of W. H. Harris against Bingley & Stevens Bros.' Creston Shows. Will sell at public auction ten carloads of circus property, consisting of animals, cages, horses, harness, sleeping car, wardrobe, tents, seats, etc. James T. Wilson, Sheriff. Robertson, Smith & Robbins, attorneys for plaintiff. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, October 16, 1886, 494.
Note: Bingley was a partner of Col. Geo. W. Hall Sr., Col. G. W. Hall’s Circus and Bingley’s Managerie, 1888-89. “Setting Straight the Hall Circus Titles,” Bob Parkinson, Bandwagon, Vol. 19, No. 1 (Jan-Feb), 1975, p. 15.
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Biller Bros. - 1949 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1949-1951
1949: Performers with the 1949 Biller Bros. show were Prince Ki-Gore, animal trainer; The Christiana Troupe, Theresa Morales, Betty Biller, Josephine and Marie Ivanoff, George Hubler and Company, Ricci and Enriquita, and others. "Jockey Moore," Ted White, were press agents; Ken Drake and C. J. McCarthy, managers; Ellsworth W. Somers, advance and contracting agent. White Tops, July-August, 1949, Vol. 22, Nos. 7-8, p. 12.
• An article on 1949-1950 Biller Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 5, pp. 4-15.
• An article on 1951-1952 Biller Bros. Circus, re-named Howe's Circus in 1952, is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 6, pp. 50-57.
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Black Bros. - 1886-88 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1886-88
1886: During the storm of last Thursday evening the tent of Black Bros. dime circus at Hornellsville was blown down on the heads of about 2,000 spectators. No one was injured. Olean (NY) Democrat, August 12, 1886.
1887:
Yesterday evening firemen were throwing water on the tent of Black Bros.' circus. One of the center pole lights became disorder and a conveying pipe parted, allowing the gasoline from a twelve-gallon tank to run out. The oil was ignited and for a short time a considerable conflagration ensued, but by the quick work of some of the employes inside and the firemen on the outside, the flames were soon under control. The loss of ropes, ring carpet, injury to tent and swinging apparatus was estimated at from $150 to $200 by one of the proprietors. The entertainment was given, however, and the show will leave the city today. Galveston Daily News (Galveston, TX), January 16, 1887, p. 5.
Mrs. E. Black has returned to Olean after an absence of six months, in which she made an extensive tour of the south in company with her sons, proprietors of Black Bros.' show. Olean (NY) Democrat, May 5, 1887.
The roster of Black Bros.' Ten-cent show is: J. G. Hudgins, contracting agent; Henry Millard, business manager; W. B. Black, general manager; Harry Black, assistant manager and equestrian director; Fred Black, treasurer; Fred Harrise, ticket seller; C. C. Matthews, Jessie Dare, Sig. Montanio, Master Harry Montanio, Master Perry Montanio, John Trevino and Mrs. Trevino, Ed. Saunders, Monico Garcea (five in number), Mateldo Roes, Frank Sheets, leader of band, with eight pieces. Concert people: Mary Milton, Josei Montanio, Dan Barrett. William E. Rhodes, boss canvasman, with ten men; Lacey Milligan, general clown. New York Clipper, May 28, 1887.
The Quincy Herald says of the Black Bros. Circus: . . . The tumblers are good, the riders excellent the trained animals above average in intelligence and training, the clowning is funny, the tight wire and rope acts thrilling . . . Decatur (IL) Daily Republican, May 24, 1887.
The Black Bros. Show closed its season at Los Angeles, Cal., Nov. 19, and shipped direct to Union City, Pa., where the show will be put in trim for next season. The proprietors, besides paying the company in full, bought tickets for all to Kansas City, Mo. Everybody went East but J. G. Hodgins, general contracting agent, who will Winter at San Diego, Cal. Chas. Inman, principal clown, and wife, will Winter at 'Frisco. Mary Milton joins the Shield's Show, as do Prof. Frank Sheets and his band of six pieces. Buck Toner (wire-walker), joins Miles Orton. Chas. Mathews and wife will Winter at Philadelphia. Carlyle and Wetson play variety theaters. Fred Harris, ticket seller, will go to Kansas City. Pop Millard, advertising agent, will go to Corry, Pa., his home. The company bought a handsome watch for W. B. Black and a gold-headed cane for Harry Black. J. G. Hodgins was re-engaged for next season. The DeVans (Tom and Will) will play variety theaters while working East.
New York Clipper, December 3, 1887, p. 602.
Fred M. Black and wife arrived in the city Saturday evening from Los Angeles, Cal., and are the guests of Mrs. E. Black on Hamilton street. Mr. Black is one of the owners of the Black Brothers circus which closed its season at Los Angeles a short time ago. William and Harry Black are at Union City, Pa., where the circus is established in its winter quarters. Olean (NY) Democrat, December 8, 1887.
1888:
Henry and Fred Black went to Union City, Pa. yesterday. They will commence preparations for the next season's tour of Black Bros. circus of which they are proprietors. Olean (NY) Democrat, February 2, 1888.
Black Bros.' Ten Cent Circus opened its season May ? at Union City, Pa., to good business. Roster: Black Bros., proprietors and managers; Harry Millard, general agent; C. C. Matthews, Harry Black, L. Moore, Harper Bros., Buck Toner, Sig. Martinnis(?), James Whiting, Dair(?) Sisters, Fanny Moore, Bert(?) Thornton, Chas. Gardner, Prof. Frank Sheets(?), Master Guy and William Rhodes. The show travels by rail. New York Clipper, May 12, 1888, p. 134.
James Black, who has been with Black Bros. circus for some months past returned last night from Witchita, Kansas, where the circus has gone into winter quarters. Olean (NY) Democrat, November 29, 1888.
1892: Fred M. Black (formerly of the Black Bros.' Show), can be engaged for the coming tenting season with his performing horse, ponies and dogs. Address 748 W. Madison Street, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 787.
Also see Pickering & Black Bros.
Electa Black household. 1880 Federal Census, Union City, Erie County, Pennsylvania, National Archives file T9-1129, p. 225C.
Electa BLACK, age 51, occupation keeping house.
William B. BLACK, son, age 27, occupation hardware merch.
Harry B. BLACK, son, age 23, occupation farmer.
Gertrude J. BLACK, daughter, age 19.
Fred M. BLACK, son, age 17.
James B. BLACK, son, age 11
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Blake's Dog & Monkey - 1896, 1901, 1903, 1905, 1910
1896: The performance of Sipe, Dolman & Blake's dog and pony show last evening . . . The first act consisted of a camp and military drill by the ponies. The ponies did about everything a company of men could do, responding to their trainer's commands. At his command all laid down on their left side; when the bugle call was sounded, they jumped up and formed in line. In the military drill they marched in single file, twos, fours, sixes, right faced, counter marched and left and right obliqued. To prove that the ponies knew their place in line, Mr. Blake mixed them up by sending them galloping around the ring without regard to order. When called to halt, they quickly reformed in their proper places. The dogs rushed into the ring and found their proper positions. The act opened with some promiscuous jimping. In the midst of this, word was brought in that Mr. and Mrs. Maloney (names of two French poodles) where to make a call. They came in with their child, drawn by a Newfoundland dog. Dressed in the latest fashion, triner R. J. Blake helped them to their seats and sent the baby away in the care of another dog. Mr. and Mrs. Maloney gave an exhibition of waltzing and then departed. Chairs were next brought out and the religious dogs clambered on them and said their prayers. The pony, Beauregard, trotted in and did some examples in subtractions and addition. Mac Neil, a companion, erased the sums from the board. The spaniels, Jack and Jenks, rolled a barrel. The most difficult feat performed by the dogs was the tight rope walking done by Jocko, a little Russian poodle walked a rope 30 feet long with another dog clinging to his back. Caesar, the St. Bernard, played a game of leap frog with Pug, the smallest pony in the world. A poodle walked on its front legs with his hind ones in the air. When Mr. Blake asked who would walk on his front legs for him, the majority pretended to be lame. Keno did some difficult back somersaults. A prize fight between spaniels representing Corbett and Jackson,was amusing. During the fight Jackson's second shot and killed Corbett's second. The dogs then proceeded to hunt out the murderer and hang him. R. J. Blake has perfect control over the animals. The show contains 63 dogs and 40 ponies. Utica Morning Herald (Utica, NY), September 1, 1896, n.p.n.
1901: Prof. Blake, whose dog and monkey circus is playing an engagement at the Zoo, says he experienced more trouble in training Nero, the black Russian poodle, to perform on a high swinging wire than training any other dog or monkey for an act. Nero's act is clever, he balances on a slack wire while it is swinging. The monkeys that ride bicycles and walk the wire are amusing. The other features are strong. Indianapolis Press (Indianapolis, IN), January 2, 1901, p. 7.
1903: Bostock's Menagerie . . . Prof. Blake's dog and pony circus and monkey theatre furnishes striking examples of animal sagacity and intelligence. Canines walk tight ropes, dance skirt dances and do high jumping, while ponies go through an intricate drill with monkeys as ridrs. Happy Hooligan, a large monkey, rides a bicycle. Amsterdam Evening Recorder (Amsterdam, NY), February 27, 1903, p. 5.
1905: At White City Park this summer, R. J. Blake's dog, pony and monkey circus, C. D. Willard's Temple of Music, each of them occupying specially erected buildings at a cost of $10,000 each. [Chicago, IL] Billboard, March 11, 1905, p. 3.
1910: At the Lyceum theater . . . The chief attraction is Blake's dog and pony show, a hippodrome act which in reality is a miniature circus. One of the features of the show is the bucking mule "Maude" which defies all riders. There is a rope walking monkey, five performing ponies and a troupe of well trained dogs. Amsterdam Evening Recorder (Amsterdam, NY), March 29, 1910, p. 7.
Also see Sipe, Dolman & Blake.
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Blitz & Long - 1890 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1881-88
F. R. Blitz and Harry Long will take out a tent show this summer . . . New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 126.
1890: Blitz & Long's Pavillon Show will open June 1(?). Signor Lowanda has been engaged. Every tent will be blue and white striped. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
1890: F. R. Blitz and Harry K.(?) Long will open their Fair ground season at Chillicothe, O., Aug. 10. New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 323.
1890: Talkers wanted, who can make opening. . . . Blitz & Long's Show, Fair Ground, Elmira, N. Y. New York Clipper, September 6, 1890, p. 412.
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Blondin's Show - 1909-10 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1912
1909: Leo Blondin's Show: Leo Blondin, manager; Joe Becker, agent; J. Betz, musical director; C. A. Curtis, stage director; R. C. Thompson, stage carpenter; Don Vanderveer, master of transportation; Richard Johnston, supt. of canvas with eight assistants; Leo. H. King, Roy Knight, R. C. Landers, Ed Coke, Jess Darnell, Frank Tillman, Bert Potter, Ferris Taylor, Frank Kursh, Eleanor Blondin, Francis Curtis, Cahtleeen Barrett, Bertha Ramsey and Frank Rowen. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1910: The roster of the Blondin Show is as follows: Leo Blondin and E. F. Reed, equal owners; Leo Blondin, manager; E. F. Reed, treasurer; Chas Bowen, general agent; Chas. R. D. Foote, stage manager; Clair Balding, assistant manager; E. W. Marsh, musical director; Tom Buckley, superintendent of lot and canvas. The street attractions are Spellman’s Band of fourteen pieces. R. Ferris Taylor, who sings with the band and Cuba Crutchfield, trick roper, Mrs. Leo Blondin and son, John Lee joined the show at Ogden, U. "Circus Gossip," Billboard, November 12, 1910, p. 24. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Curtis L. Bockus - 1934
Lynn, Mass. March 8. The Curtis L. Bockus Shows, with winter quarters at 152 Chestnut street, this city, will open their season in April. The organization will continue as a ten-car show. No grift and no girl shows are permitted. - E. Clifford, show representative. Billboard, March 18, 1922, p. 189.
The Welfare Department of Rutland, Vt., Monday was called upon to feed an entire circus, numbering 35 humans and 65 animals, when the show went broke there. The organization — Curtis L. Bockus Circus Shows — opened to a meagre gate. In two days they grossed $13, the price of a meal for one hungry elephant. Still they had to eat. The city was obliged to feed them. To add to the confusion, the proprietor was held on a charge brought by the animal trainer, who claimed the show owner owed him $800. Then a Burlington newspaper attached the animals, charging nonpayment for advertising by circus officials. Nobody could leave town, everybody was without funds and gnawed by hunger. Rutland decided something had to be done. It fed the animals and the humans. The city couldn't afford to have starving tigers and lions prowling around near the children, residents argued. Troy Times (Troy, NY), December 19, 1934, p. 8.
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Bockus & Kilonis - 1936 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1936
Article on the 1936 Bockus & Kilonis Wild Animal Circus is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1967 (scroll down or use find), and brief information in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1967 (scroll down or use find).
John D. Kilonis of Manchester, well known in this section as a wrestler a few years ago, is planning to head a one-ring circus during the coming summer. It will open May 2 in Manchester and then tour New England, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and the South. Fitchburg (MA) Sentinel, February 8, 1936.
The Bockus & Kilonis Wild Animal circus, one of the largest of motorized shows, arrived here from Nashua today and will give a performance this afternoon and evening at the Summer street grounds. It is the first year of the combined Bockus and Kilonis attractions. The combination succeeded in attracting many well-known circus and animal acts. The glamour attached to the arrival of big railroad shows was missing somewhat today, although many were thrilled at the way the automobiles with their trailers rumbled over the roads to the show grounds. The circus was in Nashua yesterday and played to an enthusiastic capacity crowd last night. In keeping with the policy of traveling by daylight, the trucks did not leave Nashua until 5 o'clock today, and they rolled into Fitchburg at different times, so the early risen missed the mass ensemble anticipated.
Supt. Manchester, who entered the circus business 42 years ago, and who was with the Buffalo Bill circus when Dexter W. Fellows made his debut in 1899, had charge of the erection of the tented city. Long before the performers, animals and attractions arrived the cook tent .the dressing rooms, the animal tent, the side show and finally the main top arose as if by magic. An army of employes were busy, each one had his appointed task; and to the sound of sledge hammer thumps and commanding voices of stern bosses the tents arose. The portable power plant was quickly in operation and attendants promised to have the ground as bright as daylight tonight. Employes say the animal display is the best ever seen in this city. The wild animal circus is part of the main show and all patrons see every animal at every performance. John Kilonis, one of the owners, is well known here as a wrestler. He appeared here many times several years ago, and took part in many hard fought bouts, including one at the Lyric with Paul Bowser, now wrestling promoter. He now resides in Manchester, where the circus makes its headquarters.
J. B. Swafford, general manager of the circus, was formerly manager of the Cumings theater in this city and later went to Gardner where he continued in the theatrical business as house manager and later led his own tented shows. Supt. Manchester, "the first man on the lot in the morning and the last one off at night," is also a veteran. He has been in the circus business 42 years and during that time made and lost two fortunes. He owned the Sautelle circus at one time and also owned and managed the Irwin circus. The show goes from here to Gardner where it will appear tomorrow. Fitchburg (MA) Sentinel, May 6, 1936.
Bockus & Kilonis Circus To Give Varied Program Here Wednesday, May 6. The Bockus & Kilonis wild animal circus, here Wednesday, May 6, is new, spick and span and presents an interesting diversified program. Thrillers and sensational troupes have been engaged from both sides of the Atlantic. The rings and stage will offer graceful and difficult equestrian feats performed on the backs of snow-white horses by fearless men and women riders. High school horses are ridden by captivating misses in gorgeous and glittering riding habits. Reckless and breath-taking aerialists perform ardous feats at the dome of the big canvas on swiftly moving trapeze and slender silver wires. Acrobatic troupes amaze and astonish, from the sturdy parents, down to the cute tumbling tots. A score of gymnasts including leapers, jugglers, wire walkers, contortionists and ludicrous clowns amuse with their timely burlesque offerings on various topics of the day. In a large steel arena appears the exciting and intensifying feature, Marion Knowlton, "Lady, of the Lions," a death defying woman, wild animal subjugator dominating jungle-bred lions and tigers. Her act is the feature of Capt William Schulz wild animal exhibition. Ted Merchant, cowboy screen star, present his own company of cowboys, cowgirls and horses in "Frontier Life." Fitchburg (MA) Sentinel, May 30, 1936.
Bockus & Kilonis circus closed in Maine last week. The circus had tough luck in accidents and weather and finally decided to close the season. Fitchburg (MA) Sentinel, June 27, 1936. All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
C. A. Bogardus - 1892
Wanted, for the C. A. Bogardus Enormous Consolidated Shows. People in all branches, black face, Dutch and Irish specialty people who can play in string or brass. Would like to hear from small band. Also want four, six and eight horse drivers. C. A. Bogardus, sole owner and manager, Belvidere, Ill. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 160. All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Bogart's Novelty Circus, Odessa, New York, 1939, photo courtesy of Conover collection.
Bogart's Novelty Circus Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1939
In 1939 Earl J. Bogart, from Afton, New York, formed a partnership with Clayton Hawkes to produce Bogart's Novelty Circus. Hawkes, owner of Martin Bros. and Clatyon's circuses, provided the equipment and Bogart the trained animals. Bogart put on the show. The show opened at Castle Creek, New York, under the auspices of the local Grange. The show consisted of trained ponies, dogs, pigeons, doves, guinea hens, rabbits, cats, roosters and other small animals. The performance included chair balancing, trapeze, flying ladder and other acts. The tent was a 60 by 40 and the side show had nine cages of small animals. The show traveled on six trucks and trailers, with several automobiles with trailers for living quarters. There were fifteen people with the show. George W. Bray did the banner soliciting and had the side show. The show toured for six weeks, and then resumed the tour on July 20, without the side show but with the menagerie. It toured New York exclusively, with one date in Pennsylvania. Bandwagon, November-December, 1992, p. 59.
Donald B. Bogart is booking agent for Bogart's Novelty Circus. "Class of 1940," Cornell Alumni News, October 31, 1940, p. 88.
1943: At the Masonic Frolic and Circus this week at Main and Cottage Streets the trained animals of Captain Earl Bogart are a feature. "Teddy," billed as the greatest high wire performing dog, a Belgian shepherd, high diving dogs and other trained pets are on the program. Performances each evening this week and a matinee Saturday. Lockport Union-Sun & Journal (Lockport, NY), May 5, 1943, p. 9.
1944: Capt. Earl J. Bogart's Trained Animal Show is one of the big features of the Cuba Odd Fellows Fair, opening tonight in Chamberlain Park. Cuba Patriot (Cuba, NY), May 18, 1944, p. 1.
1948: Portville, New York, Old Home Week Celebration. The Ferris Shows offered attractions and a free midway show was given by Earl Bogart with his trained dogs. Portview Review (Portville, NY), June 17, 1948, p. 1.
1949: He sat on the sunny side of the tent. Leaning back in his chair was Earl J. Bogart of Afton, and in the foreground were the 19 purebred mongrels, with which he entertained the youngsters and oldsters at the Vernon Fair. We asked the dog trainer for a few pointers and just then a "foreign" dog walked into sight. One of the Bogart string let out a howl and the others took up the yelping, making a chorus. "Down Nellie, down Ted down Betty, come here Oscar," said Bogart. The 18 dogs settled down while the 19th, named Oscar, raced after the invader, who turned tail and ran. "To begin with," said Bogart, "you must have a name for each animal, and you must make them obey. You start with simple things like, 'down' and when they obey give the dog a reward. I have all kinds of dogs . . . Take Oscar, a really bright dog. She can tell time and can count. She also does tricks. To do high dives takes about two years of training, but come into the tent and see what she can do." We went into the empty tent and Oscar counted by barking out the proper number of times, and then the dog climbed onto a swinging rope with its fore feet. Finally she stood up on the swinging rope. Bogart has been to 21 fairs this year and stopped in Vermon on the way home. The dogs are carried in a trailer while Mr. and Mrs. Bogart drive the car. Utica Daily Press (Utica, NY), October 11, 1949, p. 7.
1950: Earl J. Bogart, 63, of Afton, died Sunday morning after a long illness. He is survived by his wife, Mrs. Ruth Bogart; a daughter, Mrs. Murray Johnson, both of Afton; three sons, Donald and David, both of Afton, and Robert, of Elmira; his step-mother, Mrs. Ora Manning of Breeseport; a half-brother, Raymond, of Elmira; 10 grandchildren and a niece. The body was removed to the Karschner Funeral Home in Afton. Burial in East Side Cemetery. Binghampton Press (Binghampton, NY), April 10, 1950, p. 20.
When Earl was thirteen and again at twenty-three, he was living with his grandfather, David Bogart (1900, 1910 censuses), helping on the farm. In 1909 Earl's father, George, died. In 1914, Earl married Ruth Allen. Earl was living in Afton, NY, and listed himself as a funeral director. In the 1920 census for Afton, Earl was listed as an employee of an undertaker. According to the 1925 New York State census, Earl J. Bogart was a deputy sheriff at Afton. In 1930 Earl was a boarder in Johnson City, NY, listing his occupation as a stage performer. His wife and children were living at Afton. By the 1940 census Earl was living in Afton and listed his occupation as show business, his own business.
• Read Bradbury's article on Hawkes' shows and the Bogart's Novelty in Bandwagon, November-December, 1992, pp. 54-59.
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Bond Bros. - 1896
Bond Bros.' circus struck Butte, Montana, the other day in a snowstorm. After paying a state and county license of $350, their treasury was depleted, and the outfit was compelled to give the city of Butte a mortgage on three elephants to secure the payment of a $150 city license. - Chicago Times-Herald. Utica Daily Union (Utica, NY), May 26, 1896, n.p.n.
Wichita, Kan., April 16. At Bond Bros.' circus, which is wintering here, Egypt, the famous camel, gave birth to a baby camel this morning. Hutchinson News (Hutchinson, KS), April 16, 1896, p. 1.
• Information on the 1896 Bond Bros. show, owner Joe McMahon, is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1995, Vol. 39, No. 6, pp. 66-69.
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Bone's Dog & Pony Show - 1919 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1920
J. E. Bone, manager of Bone's Dog & Pony Show, met with a very pamful accident Sunday, April 20, when he fell front the top of his ring barn at Xenia, O., dislocating his right ankle and injuring his left foot. He will be confined to his bed about a week or ten days. This has caused Mr. Bone to cancel his Xenia dates, but the show will open May 5. James Borland has charge of the winter quarters and promises to have everything ready in plenty of time. Mrs. Bone will act as secretary and treasurer of the show. James Borland will be equestrian director and work the ring stock. Mrs. Borland will run the cook house and take charge of the reserved seats. John Swadner will have charge of the auto trucks, and Bill Jones will be advance agent. The show will consist of pony, dog and other circus and vaudeville acts. Billboard, May 3, 1919, p. 34.
Xenia, O., April 12. Preparations are under way to open Bone's Dog & Pony Show here, May 1 to 3, inclusive. Jimmie Borland is at the ring barn breaking ponies and dogs. J. E. Bone, manager, has returned from Dayton, where he has been overseeing the building of his trucks. The show will be a combination truck and wagon outfit. Billboard, April 19, 1919, p. 78.
J. E. Bone, who formerly owned his own show, known as the Bone Dog and Pony Show, but who has recently been connected with the Maloon Shows, out of Union City, Indiana, arrived home Wednesday morning for a two weeks lay-off. He will stay here until after the Greene County Fair, where he has a refreshment concession. The ponies are the ones trained by James Borland here this spring for the Bone Dog and Pony Show. The Maloon Shows is a small road circus traveling by wagon. Evening Gazette (Xenia, OH), July 24, 1919, p. 5.
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E. E. Bonham's Dog & Pony Show - 1922-23
In quarters at Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, 1922. Billboard, January 14, 1922, p. 65. Bonham's Trained Animal Show (1923). Billboard, March 24, 1923, p. 74. All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Bonheur Bros. - 1892-94, 1896, 1898, 1900, 1902, 1904, 1912 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1892-1911
1892:
Harry Burris, now at Greenwood, Mich., will join the Bonheur Bros.' Show in April. They are fixing up for showing in a tent this season, and have finished negotiations for a brand new tent of a special style and shape, to suit the exhibition they will carry. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 3.
Bonheur Bros. have added three more wagons, which are undergoing a transformation under the painter's brush. All will appear in white. They have put in ten extra head of stock to transport the increase of property, and everything will be new from pole to stake. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 82.
Bonheur Bros. will begin the season with their art show at Jesup, Ia., some time in May. The exhibition is such that halls available for entertainments are inadequate to admit the huge pictures and they can only be shown under canvas. The interior of the tent will be handsomely furnished and decorated, and everything will be conveniently arranged. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
H. W. Burris, of Alma, Mich., after spending the winter in Michigan, has joined the Bonheur Bros. at Jessup, Ia., May __. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
A ___ struck the Bonheur Bros.' Show . . . July 20, and, before anything could be made safe, the tent was hoisted by the wind. A quarter pole was broken, and several rents made in the tent. One of the tall ___ poles was also broken. The storm lasted two hours. Harry Burris had his left leg badly burned by gasoline night of __, after the entertainment, at Mt. Auburn(?), Ia. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
. . . the Bonheur Bros.' Show while the performance was in progress, at Fairmount, Minn., Sept. 2?. There was a good audience. Much damange was done to the Bonheur Bros. property, and many people were mor or less injured by the side poles and stakes, but all escaped death or serious injury. The tent was blown flat in an instant, and one of the wagons toppled over. New York Clipper, October 1, 1892, p. 472.
A cyclone struck Bonheur Bros.' Show at Norman, Ia., Sept. 21. Henry Madson(?) had three ribs broken. Mrs. Dahl was tripped by a flying guy and injured in the face by being trampled on. Her daughter, Anna Dahl, received a severe contusion on the head. J. R. Bonheur was thrown violently from the stand where he was lecturing, and the organ fell over on its back. He has been suffering pain for a couple of weeks, but is on duty, as ever. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 507.
While the train of road wagons of the Bonheur Bros.' Show was descending a steep hill about nine miles north of Yankton, S.D., Oct. 14, the team attached to the gas(?) wagon became unmanageable and overturned the wagon. J. R. Bonheur, who had the lines, was dragged with the rig . . . and his left leg being under the wagon top, his right one was broken, and he sustained injuries about the head. New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 538.
1893:
Bonheur Bros. notes. Bonheur Bros. Show are holding their own in South Dakota, despite the opposition of numerous canvas exhibitions and hall shows of all kinds. Every one has a good word for us after seeing our entertainments. Percy Brown, of Indianapolis, formerly candy butcher with Barnum & Bailey, is with the Bonheur Bros. Roster: J. R. Bonheur, ___ Bonheur and A. G. Bonheur, manager . . . Carl Peterson, first violin; L. Anderson, second violin . . . Chas. Allen and Sam G. Sutton(?), workmen. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 280.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Show. At Toronto, S.D., June 26(?), we had a severe wind storm with heavy rain fall and the tent could hardly stand. The Bonheur Bros. offered to refund the money paid for admission if the audience would retire, insisting that it was unsafe to try to keep the tent up in such a wind. The people would not leave their seats. In removing a double Baker gasolene [sic] lamp from the top of a large wagon Percy Brown was blown off the wagon and fell, turning a complete backward somersault with the lamp in his hand, alighting on his hip on the tongue of the wagon without seriously hurting himself. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 280.
[Bonheur Bros.' Colossal Mirror of Wonderland, an art show under canvas. Western scenes. Was traveling in Minnesota, en route to World's Fair.] New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 290.
The Bonheur Bros.' Co. are enjoying the Minnesota lakes in the region of Waterville and feasting on the fish with which the lakes abound. A six pound bass was served for breakfast July 23 at the cook tent. New York Clipper, August 5, 1893, p. 346.
Bonhuer Bros.' Mirror of Wonderland, en route through southern Minnesota, report good business. The management reports meeting with such flattering success that they indend to make large improvements next season. The roster: Bonhuer Bros., proprietors and managers . . . Robt. Ronalzo, Joe Adams . . . Master Joe Rivers, Bertie Evens [sic?], Mamie Forrest and Prof. John Young, leader of orchestra. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 394.
From the Bonheur Bros.' Show. Robert Ronalzo, formerly of Pantzer and Ronalzo, contortionists, is among the specialty performers with the show. Geo. King and John Wagoner joined at Waltham, Minn. The Bonheur Bros. have issued new cuts and attractive paper from original designs. Earl Pike and Sam C. Sherman joined the circus at Waltham, Minn. John Adams and ___ spent Aug. 20(?) with friends at Mason City, Ia. . . . Geo. Rab?ude has recovered from a sprained ankle, occasioned by dropping from his pyramid of tables and turning a back somersault on uneven ground. New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 412.
Notes from the Bonheur Bros.' Shows. Joe Adams, Geo. Rab??ds and R?? Ronalzo have re-engaged with the show. . . . Willard Miller joined at Dankerton, Ia. Amos Bonheur, advance man of brigade No. 1, paid a visit to the show 10. Boss canvas man S. C. Sherman and his men illuminate the country roads at midnight with their train of wagons, decorated with big torches, on their way to the next town. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 463.
From Bonheur Bros.' Show. We have been doing a fairly good business, and will close the tenting season will all people paid and sent on their way happy. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 545.
1894:
Tent for sale, at a bargain . . . well roped, with ropes and stakes, and other show property. Address Bonheur Bros., Emporia, Kas. . . . New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 808.
Notes from the Bonheur Bros.' Shows. The show was snow bound at ___, Kansas, by the blizzard of Saturday(Sunday?), Feb. 11, for three days. On Wednesday following they managed to dig their way through the drifts with shovels at points where the bands were impassable for the wagons, and at other points making wide detours through ___, a distance of ten miles was made and they reached Council Grove, where they have taken ___ and rented a large store room for quarters for the remainder of the winter. They will use the store room for a repair and paint shop in which to fit up their wagons for the coming season. The advance wagon, in charge of A. G.(?) Bonheur, is ___ thirty five miles east of Council Grove, and our agent had much difficulty in ___ horseback over the snow to join the party here. A new tent built for withstanding gales in this windy country will be made for them this Spring. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 823.
Tent for sale, 40x80 ___ duck, 12ft. wall, well roped, with ropes and stakes, and other show property, Bonheur Bros., Emporia, Kas. Wanted, Trumpet Organ . . . New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 826.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Show. In a week Bonheur Bros. will have another large new wagon ready for the road. It is over thirteen feet long by nine feet high, with a symetrical lady that curves up over the wheels. It is very strong and light, being strung up inside by inverted v-shaped stringers, that render it safe for transporting heavy loads. It is fitted with lockers and a little cooking range, on which meals can be cooked for eight or ten persons conveniently, when on the road, without unloading anything. All the Bonheur wagons will this year be changed to bright chrome(?) yellow, and will have rich Tuscan(?) red panels painted within flat scrolls, across which, in gold script, appears the name "Bonheur Bros.," dividing the title of the show, "Electric Sce???," in silver leaf, shaded in cobalt blues. These brilliant hues of the butterfly wing and humming bird will be artistically arranged to form beautiful effects subordinate to the shape of the wagons so decorated. Their show this year will be the modern, model, scenic success, and maintain, as of yore, the brilliant reputation of the Bonheur name. They will have a specially made new tent, constructed by one of the best professional tent makers, for 1894, and will put on the road one of the neatest little tent shows in the world. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Show. A brand new one hundred foot round top will be built, with ropes strongly attached at every seam. Only half the guys will be used in quiet weather, but, as they will travel through Oklahoma and expect to encounter more windy days than quiet ones, they will be prepared to double the work of pounding stakes that would be required where the breezes are more pacific [sic?]. The tent walls will be seven and a half feet high, to afford as little surface as possible for the wind to play upon. Many times have tent shows in this country had to show with only side walls up, and no season passes that the tops have not come down. Bonheur Bros. are determined that such will not be the case with them. Work steadily continues in the paint shop, and handsome transformations are rendered. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Show. Work in the paint shop has progressed rapidly and is nearing a finish. Two wagons were turned out last week and the last one will probably be done at the end of this week. They will begin the season in southern Kansas. . . . W. ?. Cook of Paradise, Kansas, is out for the purpose of capturing a few beavers for the show and writes that he has set his traps for a monster wildcat, with every indication that he will soon be in possession of the animal. New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 37.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Show. New pictorial printing is in preparation. Some fine six(?) color cuts, nine sheet size are in the engraver's hands. One of these nine sheet stands represents the exterio of the grounds, with gay crowds gathering, presenting a festive holiday appearance, with flags and banners flying. A goodly number of newspaper cuts have been especially designed for the season of 1894, and everything else pertaining to the show from flagg staff to stake and paraphernailia will be new out and out. Doc Lee, the old time friend of the Bonheur Bros., has signed. Oklahoma Harry will join us at Galt, Ia., and have charge of the wagons and mules. T. Cast(?), expert whip cracker, who played waltz tunes to music with his silken whip lash at the World's Fair, and for Buffalo Bill, is another late addition. Cast(?) does some of the most remarkable tricks in the musical line. This performer is an Austrian by birth and acquired when a mere boy a wonderful skill at whip cracking while employed herding geese for his parents, who owned large flocks. Later, Cast(?), for many years has been the envy of the cow punchers on the western plains. The bill wagon, office and laboratory wagons, are now at Council Grove, Kan., where the 1894 initial exhibition of Bonheur Bros.' Electric Show will be given. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 86.
Bonheur Bros.' Show notes. An amusing thing about our stay in winter quarters at Council Grove, Kan. is worth printing. The people of this town, for the most part, are extremely religious, and think show people generally bad. It has been always a business principle to keep our private affairs from the public, and, as every one having no business with us were strictly locked out of our paint shop, the good citizens began to suspect that a "joint" was in full blast in the midst of the town. The frequent jugs of turpentine, oil and packages of paint that passed from the drug stores to our quarters, strengthened this idea, and a few keen acented sleuths began smelling for tracks. The upper floor of our quarters in the big store building, long unused, was covered with a thick layer of dust, and it was funny to see those would be detectives on their little mission, make a pretext for going aloft. But in the undisturbed dust they could see no foot marks or "crap signs," and finally they had to give it up. Our tent is ready for the road, and is pronounced a beauty. Our route will be through Oklahoma and the Indian Territory. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 164.
1896:
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Winter Quarters . . . A. G. Bonheur is still at his home in Danville, Ill. Howard has gone to Des Monies, Ia., to purchase a troupe of educated dogs. The two little cocker spaniels, who were nursed by a cat, are growing ???, and are rapidly acquiring their first lessons in the A B C of canine accomplishments. A fine dining tent and several new sleeping tent are ready for selling. New York Clipper, January 11, 1896, p. 716.
Notes from Bonheur Bros.' Winter Quarters. A. G.(C.?) Bonheur has returned from his mother's home in Danville, Ill., having spent a pleasant time among old friends. W. H. Duke, concert performer, announcer and clown, has signed and will make the openings for sideshow and big show. Alice Walker, snake enchantress, will double in a Irish song and dance for concert, introducing her trick dog McGinty. Everyone is anxious to know the date of opening exhibition. It is the first time the show has wintered in this part of the country, and it is comparatively ad stranger to the people here. We are using an old store building for a paint and wagon shop. It was erected here when the town was first laid out. [town not named] New York Clipper, February 1, 1896, p. 761.
1898:
Notes of Bonheur Bros.' Shows. The season is nearing a close. E. H. Keetch and Mrs. Lyda Keetch and their two children, one of which was born en route with the Yellow Wagon show June 4, will go out with a Winter show. Mons. Niblo and wife, Marie, will go to Enid, Oklahoma; Tomme Barrett to Wier City, Kan. . . . New York Clipper, October 29, 1898, p. 594.
The Bonheur Bros. performed at Hays, Kansas, June 21 and 22 and gave a free outside attraction. They played Oberlin, Kansas, July 27. Bandwagon, September-October, 1998, Vol. 42, No. 5, p. 38.
1900: Bonheur Bros.' New Golden Allied Shows opened at Augusta, Okla., April 26, to large crowds. Everything about the show was in great shape, and new equipment and fresh paint were in order. The wagons have all been painted a new gold and showed up well. The horse tent is a new and larger one, and the black tent is a new attraction for afternoon and night exhibitions. Billboard, May 12, 1900, p. 5.
1902: 1902: At Dexter, Kan., on Saturday night, Aug. 30, while the Bonheur Brothers' Show was in full blast, a cyclone dipped down from the darkened sky, lifted the tent high above the heads of the audience, tearing the ropes from the stakes and breaking many of them off like pipe stems. The large audience in attendance became panic stricken and some people were knocked down and trampled upon. That no one was seriously injured was miraculous. The Bonheur Brothers sustained less than $300 damages to their property, and everything was repaired and ready for the next stand at Cedarvale, Sept. 1. A partial roster of the show is here given, and all of these members were slightly injured in the calamity: Eddie Brennan, Baxter Johnson, Frank Yates, Albert Baugh, Samuel Huff, Mike Fay, John Wyatt, Will Showalter, Lawrence Sullivan, Harley Way, Maude Brennan, Liddi Dorance, Margarette Dayton, Clara Niblo, Gilbert Murray and Clarence Laflower. Billboard, September 13, 1902, p. 5.
1904: Notes from Bonheur Bros. - The newly built quarters of the Golden Mascot Show are commodious as well as convenient. The living rooms are amply sufficient for the accommodation of the people. The buildings are quite large, and contain rooms for carving and painting, and others for repair work and machinery for b?lk?ing wagons. Several new wagons are under construction for season of 1904. All performers have been engaged, and most of the working people have been contracted for. The show, newly organized and equipped, will open in Augusta about May 1. A lake has been excavated on the land owned(?) by the Bonheur Bros. and a huge windmill has just arrived, and will be erected with a strong force pump for pumping the water through a three inch pipe to supply the lake with water, which will be stocked with fish and various m???es and aquatic plants to supply the finny tribe with luxuries. The buildings are now receiving their coat of paint, and the living rooms are under the hands of expert plasterers, who are giving them a marble finish. Clyde Rialdo is principal clown. The Rialdos and the Wilmorth(?) Family have signed. Fred Voss, comedy juggler and clown, has joined. New York Clipper, March 12, 1904, p. 62.
1912: Bonheur Bros.' Greater Golden Mascot Overland Shows have ended a season that was successful with but one exception, the being the sustaining of considerable loss thru the horse plague in Kansas, not so much by losing horses of their own, but by the resulting depression among the stock owners, who lost many horses, witholding patronage for a period of several weeks. The show will spend the winter South. November 30 it crossed the line into Texas. The show has been provided with new tents, several new wagons, $1,600 electric light plant, one animal cage and a pony carriage. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
Note: For more information on this show see Troupers of the Golden Mascot, by Louis Wood, 1904.
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Bonhomme - 1901, 1922 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1923
1901: Fitzpatrick, Ala., Nov. 17. We are in our successful season South. Everybody with our company see "the man in white" every Sunday. - Jos. W. Bonhomme. Billboard, November 23, 1901, p. 10.
1902: Winter quarters. Bonhomme Family Shows, Owensboro, Ky. Billboard, December 13, 1902, p. 13.
1922: J. W. Bonhomme and son closed an engagement with the Mighty Haag Show. Mr. Bonhomme writes that he will put out a hall show, carrying five people, this winter and next spring will launch a tent show. Billboard, October 14, 1922, p. 73.
1922: The Bonhomme Bros.' Show is playing to nice business thru Kentucky, according to J. W. Bonhomme. For the first time in his thirty-five years in show business Bonhomme says he had out the S. R. O. sign three nights in one week at Midland, Ky. Arthur Whitler joined at Midland, handling the advance. There are six people with the show. Next spring Bonhomme declares he will put out a truck show. Billboard, December 9, 1922, p. 73.
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Col. Daniel Boone's - 1896
Notes from Col. Boone's Show. We opened in the La Fourche district two weeks ago, and have done a nice business. Everybody is well. The company is as follows: Boon & Ottendorfer, proprietors; Jerry Cahill, manager; Fred O. Jones, amusement director; Boons Allen, treasurer; Prof. Harry James, band master, with ten people; De Ivey, Frisco and De Ivey, Tom Tandy, Harry Long, Charles Long, John Caborn, Uncle John Kimbrell, Fred and Kitty Ownes, Annie James, Lizzie James, Edna Phenton, G. C. Craft, Prof. De Long, Masters Frankie and Walter Ottendorfer, Augusta and Katie Ottendorfer, and Irene James. We will play all the race country. New York Clipper, May 16, 1896, p. 169.
Note: See Gorman & Boone.
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Boone's Mexican Ranch - 1919
The Woody Troupe and Family Band will not be with the Campbell Shows as formerly stated, but instead have decided to join Boone's Mexican Ranch Show for the season. Billboard, May 17, 1919, p. 37.
The Boone Mexican Ranch Wild West Show is touring Kansas. Pate Boone is the sole owner and manager. There are two sideshows, two free acts, forty head of stock, eight piece uniformed band, five riders, ten working men and seven concessions. The Woody Family Band and troupe of acrobats, Red Ward, rider; Prof. LeMare, high wire artist; Ben Davis, rider; Lola and May Decker, riders; Blanche Pany, midget; Miss May Dalton, concessions and cabaret dancer; Oscar Bayles, head clown; Casey Smith and wife, managers of concessions. Jeff Dalton has charge of the cabaret and sideshow. John Hill Stuart has the cookhouse. Uncle Jimmy, novelties, Jess Radcliffe has the concessions with several lady assistants. The feature of the show will be the shooting act of Pate Boone, who will also scratch out a few bronks. The troupe will carry twelve wagons and the advance will be handled by cross country autos. Billboard, June 14, 1919, p. 46.
Billy Woody, of the Woody family, is now doing high wire as one of the free attractions with Boone's Mexican Ranch Show. Billboard, August 2, 1919, p. 44.
The Boone's Mexico Ranch Shows has crossed the Kanasa line into Oklahoma. The feature rider, Red Ward, is back in riding shape after being injured by a falling horse. Prof. Glen and wife have joined with their juggling, clowning and impalement act. Manager Boone returned from Altamont, Kansas, where he contracted for the fair, August 13-14. Jessie Radcliffe, concessioner, is doing nice business with the country store. The Boone show is billed through the Oklahoma oil fields the remainder of the season. - Robert Woody, contracting manager. Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 46.
The Woody Family, musicians and performers, spent the whole season on the Pate Boone Show, opening with that attraction the first of March and closed October 29 in Cometa, Ok. They will winter in Joplin, Mo. Billboard, November 15, 1919, p. 58.
More on the 1919 Boone's Mexican Ranch show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
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Booth & Collier's - 1886 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1887
Our town was visited not long since by Booth & Collier's wonderful circus, which might be called "one-horse," attracted quite a crowd to town. Herald and Torch Light (Hagerstown, MD), July 8, 1886, n.p.n.
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Boothman Bros. - 1886 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1886
Boothman Bros.' Mammoth Pavilion Show, Uniformed Band and Orchestra. Wanted, song-and-dance team, contortionist, Irish comedian, horizontal bars (double), aerial act, boss canvasman and leader of orchestra to double cornet in brass. Any good feature for ring or stage. Season opens on or about June 1. Address Carl Boothman, Boston, Mass. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, May 15, 1886, p. 143.
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Borden Bros. & Sheenan - 1918 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1918
Borden Bros. & Sheenan notes. Al G. Weston and his Kentucky Rosebuds are still with us with the Lady Beautiful at. John Daly Goodfellow is laid up with a sprained ankle, but gets there on crutches. Jack Maloney went to New York recently and is booked up with one of the K. & E. productions. Joe Sheenan is some agent, from the way he is billing this show. O-Zane-O the mystery one, goes with Sheenan's new show this fall. - Frank McGarity. Billboard, September 7, 1918, p. 25. All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
E. H. Bostock's Royal Italian Circus - 1919
Show was in Shanghai, China in 1919.Billboard, October 4, 1919, p. 44.
Shanghai, China, Aug. 23. E. H. Bostock's Royal Italian Circus has been playing here for the last month. Mr. Almazoff(?) is manager of the company. The company consists of Maximo, the Cuban wonder, wire walking act; Signor Trufelli and Signor Cembrani, trained animals; Mlle. Lorenz, trapeze artist; Kirk(?) & Page Trio, acrobatic feats; the Mardells, "Whirl of Death;" the Great Cliquet Company, aerial act. - Robert Roth. Billboard, October 4, 1919, p. 44.
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Boston Pavilion Show - 1891
For sale, a complete circus outfit, known as the Boston Pavilion Show. Used only six weeks. One hundred and ten foot round top with forty foot middle piece. One seat and pole wagon, one ticket and band wagon, poles and seats all complete. Reserved seats carpeted and with backs. One full set of scenery, twenty-five foot elevated stage, band uniforms, flags, sledges, and in fact, all ready for the road. Address P.(F.?) H. Fisher, ___ Blake Street, Denver, Col. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 192. All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Bottini Bros. - 1913-14 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1913
1914: Bottini Bros.' Greater United Shows will exhibit at Rome, June 6 and 7. The best one-ring circus of its kind. 21 feature acts. Mlle. Emore and her educated bronchos that jump rope, do arithmetic, waltz, jump hurdles and jump from a spring board through hoops of fire. Weekly and Wood Trio, aerialists; William Tessler, king of the floating wire and upside down wonder; Barth & Barth, acrobats; Thelma & Co., iron jaw artists; Paddy and Bill, strong men; Water Bros., human balls or boneless men, contortion; Master Lee and his troupe of 10 funny clowns; Lester Race, sharp shooter. Adults 25c, children 15c. [Advertisement] Rome Daily Sentinel (Rome, NY), June 7, 1913, p 3.
1913: Bottini Bros., proprietors of a two-car circus out of Rome, N.Y., were found not guilty of receiving stolen property at Watertown a short time ago. None of Joe's friends believed he was guilty. Billboard, January 10, 1914, 27.
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Boucher's Big United Shows - 1919
Winter quarters, A. C. Boucher's Big United Shows, A. C. Boucher, manager, Vancouver, B.C., Canada; Show No. 2, San Francisco, California. Billboard, February 22, 1919, p. 59.
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Billie Boughton's - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908-1913
Billie Boughton's Overland Show: Billie Boughton, proprietor and manager; Helen Boughton, secretary; Amy St. Cyr, treasurer; Loy Berry, advance agent. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
Show had winter quarters in Ambia, Indiana. Bandwagon, August, 1956, p. 8.
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Harry Bowman's - 1901 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1901
Harry Bowman's Vaudeville Circus opened its season at Jeannette, Pa., May 11, to capacity. The following is tbe complete roster: Harry Bowman, proprietor and manager; Charles Cribes, in advance, with two bill posters; Clyde Bowman, treasurer; Jacob Bowman, ticket taker: George Bowman, boss canvassraan; Milt Donohan, in charge of stock, and the following performers: Staley and educated horses, Frank Carey, Edgar Smouse, Bert Bacon, Prank (Hay) Breining, James Flowers and George Kern, and Smouse's Band of tbe following musicians: Edgar Smouse, Arthur Rogers, Will Peifer, Leo Dechatau, Arthur Rosseo, Jess Guy, Charles Miller and George Bowman. Billboard, June 1, 1901, p. 5.
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Boyd & Peters - 1879-1880 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1878-1879
1878: Wanted to purchase a number of cages, with or without animals. Performers, musicians and curiosities wanted for the season of 1879. Address Boyd & Peters, proprietors Great American Circus, Royal Oak, Oakland Co., Mich. New York Clipper, December 21, 1878, p. 315.
1879:
For Boyd & Peters' Show among the people engaged are Miles Orton, bareback rider, and his sons, Masters Bernard and Albert; Claude Orton, principal rider; Lizzie Hayes, flying trapeze; James Bensley, barrel performer; and Prof. Dan Bamberg's(?) Buffalo, N.Y., band. The managers are building a steam calliope, also a number of cages, in Detroit, Mich. New York Clipper, February 8, 1879, p. 367.
Davis and Peters circus have been stopping this winter at Clark Rose's. They will show here in the spring before starting out. [possible] Birmingham Eccentric (Birmingham, MI), February 14, 1879.
Great Transatlantic Allied Shows, Menagarie, Caravan, Aviary and Grand Double Circus. Boyd & Peters, proprietors; A. W. Davis, general manager; John Gee(?), assistant manager; Orlando J. Boyd, general agent; Thos. Riley, contracting agent; . . . Miles Orton, equestrian director; David McLean, master of stables; John McLean, assistant; R. C. Hoyt(?), chief of past brigade; . . . Lizzie Hayes, principal lady rider; . . . A. Van Zandt, bounding jockey; clowns, Bob De Mar and Homer Willis; Wm. Willis, slack rope . . . Miles Orton has the sideshow, concert and candy stand privileges. Show organized in Royal Oak, Mich. In the street parade will be seen the chariot "Great Pacific," an open den of lions, and open den of snakes, and open den of hyenas, a steam calliope, twenty mounted people, all terminating with a grand Mardi-gras carnival. Crosses into Canada about May 1. [some text unreadable] New York Clipper, April 5, 1879, p. 15.
Circus performers wanted for the Great Trans-Atlantic Allied Shows. Salaries paid every Monday. Address Boyd & Peters, Edwardsport, Ind. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, July 19, 1879, p. 135.
The Transatlantic Circus and Menagerie closes its season Oct. 25 in Flat Rock, Mich., and went into winter quarters in Royal Oak. New York Clipper, November 1, 1879, p. 251.
Boyd & Peters, proprietors of the Transatlantic Circus and Menagerie, have just completed an animal building in Royal Oak, Mich., and are building a new ticket wagon, two tableau cars and some new baggage wagons. The entire wardrobe to be used next season will be new. New York Clipper, December 20, 1879, p. 307.
Wanted for the Trans-Atlantic Menagerie and Circus. Performers, living curiosities, extraordinary attractions, billposters, etc. Also boss ostler. Boyd & Peters, sole proprietors, Royal Oak, Mich. Also, candy stand, reserve seats and street privileges for sale. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, December 27, 1879, p. 319.
1880:
Boyd & Peter's Great Trans-Atlantic Circus, which has been visiting here [Royal Oak], will give their first exhibition here, on the 24th inst. Pontiac Press (Pontiac, MI), April 14, 1880.
1880-04-21 Mr. S. C. Peters, of Boyd & Peters, the showmen, is evidently as susceptible to feminine charms as any man, and while the "animilies" were wintering at Royal Oak, Peters successfully wooed and won Miss Kittie Dows, and April 1 they went to Detroit and were spliced in good shape by Rev. Z. Eddy, D.D. Pontiac Press (Pontiac, MI), April 21, 1880. [Kittie Peters age 16, Royal Oak, Oakland County, MI 1880 census.]
S. C. Peters, of Boyd & Peter's show that is to give an exhibition in Pontiac to-day, came very near losing his life at Royal Oak last Wednesday evening. He was returning from Detroit with a load of corn, and when almost home the wagon capsized and he was buried under the load in such a way that he was unable to extricate himself. John Krepps, his night watchman, got uneasy over the prolonged absence of Peters, and about midnight started down the road to investigate, and had only gone half a mile when he discovered why his employer didn't return. Help was speedily summoned and Peters was taken out more nearly dead than alive. It was a very narrow escape. Pontiac Press (Pontiac, MI), May 5, 1880.
Boyd and Peter's combination of high sounding titles struck Pontiac last Wednesday and didn't create a very favorable impression. The street parade was like the horseflesh, thin, and while some parts of the circus were hard to beat, others didn't amount to much. We suppose that allowances should be made for the fact that the proprietors are young at the business and this was their 3rd or 4th stopping place. Pontiac Press (Pontiac, MI), May 12, 1880.
Mrs. Harriet Carew and Mrs. S. C. Peters have gone to Penna. to visit Boyd & Peters' show. Birmingham Eccentric (Birmingham, MI), July 9, 1880.
We are told that Boyd & Peters circus has come to a stand still down in Pennsylvania. Maltrome Burkett, aged 14 years, of Somerset county, that state, claims that she was abducted and outraged and kept with the circus for a week, being conveyed from town to town in the ticket wagon, and when allowed to leave she was partially demented. Her story as told in court is too horrible for publication. Last Thursday S. C. Peters, A. W. Davis, Clark Rose and John Campbell, managers, together with fifty attaches, were arrested and jailed to await examination. Pontiac Press (Pontiac, MI), July 28, 1880. Researcher note: The girl mentioned is not Maltrome Burkett, but Salome Burket(t), my husband's grandmother's sister. Joanne Burkett.
Paraphernalia of Boyd & Peter's Circus sold by Sheriff of Armstrong county, at Leechburg, Monday Aug. 2. Claims came principally from Cincinnati, where the show was organized. Indiana (PA) Weekly Messenger, Aug. 4, 1880.
1881:
Mrs. Hettie Peters, from Minnesota, is visiting at Virgil Rose's. Birmingham Eccentric (Birmingham, MI), November 11, 1881.
Mrs. Kittie Peters is regaining her health since her return to Michigan. Birmingham Eccentric (Birmingham, MI), December 2, 1881.
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Boyd & Ogle; Boyd, Ogle & Hoskings - 1916-17
1916: San Francisco, Jan. 13. Boyd & Ogle moved their show into spacious winter quarters in the old West Coast Riding Academy's stables, after the close of their engagement at the Panama-Pacific Exposition, and are planning for the coming season, when they will have a one-ring wagon show out. The winter quarters are at Thirty-fifth avenue and Fulton. There are over forty head of ponies, a number purchased since the close of the 1915 season; twelve Angora goats and Persian sheep, five of them trained; three bears, four llamas, sixteen monkeys, twenty dogs, six horses, ring stock; racoons, many birds and a trained goose. King Pharoh, the trained horse is among the stock. . . . The personnel of the winter quarters: D. A. Ogle, superintendents; Frank Moriarity, boss hostler; Jim McRae and William Clark, clowns, mule trainers; Chester Frank, hostler, and Wilmer Sponenby, pony rider and breakers. The latter is eleven years of age. The show is planning to go to the Panama Exposition in the Canal Zone. Billboard, January 22, 1916, p. 56.
1916: San Francisco, Nov. 11. A new circus will play the Pacific Coast towns next season if the plans launched materialize. Boyd and Ogle, who have had a one-ring show out for several seasons, have taken a partner in the person of W. A. Hoskings, the new firm will be known as Boyd, Ogle & Hoskings. Doc Boyd and Mr. Hoskings left for India November 4, to secure animals for the menagerie, a strong feature of the show. Ogle is in charge of the new winter quarters built at West Sacramento. Billboard, November 18, 1916, p. 56.
1917: Sacramento, Cal., May 31. The Boyd, Ogle & Hoskings Circus, with winter quarters at West Sacramento, is planning to open in a few weeks to play a series of engagements with various organizations of Elks. Doc Boyd, manager of the show, has signed contracts, selling the show outright to the lodge for Red Cross benefits to be played as a one-ring circus. A large number of steel cages are being constructed to carry the animals recently brought from the Orient by Boyd, and the ring barn is lively with the breaking of horses and ponies for the opening. Billboard, June 9, 1917, p. 68.
1917: Sacramento, Cal., July 13. The Boyd, Ogle & Hoskings Wild Animal Circus opened here July 4 for a two days' engagement under the auspices of the Native Daughters of the Golden West. Doc Boyd is in active charge of the show, while Ogle is superintendent and Hoskings treasurer. The tents are big top 90 foot round top, with a 32 middle piece; menagerie, 50 foot round top with two 20s. The show is framed for one ring. The menagerie contains three Bengal tigers, three leopards, black panther, sun bear, ant eater, black bear, brown bear, snow leopard, four hyenas, orang-outang, many monkeys, goats, sixty ponies and midget elephant. Vic Le Varna has the sideshow, which includes: Baby Parks, St. Leon Troupe, Opal Gillmore and several illusions. Art Perl is in front. Top is 53 by 21 stripes. B. F. Parks is superintendent. The performers include Sandow; King Pharoh, educated horse; the Zeb Zaro troupe; Aerial Lavalles; Chris Nolan, acrobat; dog and pony acts; goat act; trained high-school ponies, clowns, etc. Edward Friedlander (Army) is boss canvasman; Hobo Jack, boss hostler; Ed Bessie, boss property man; Mrs. Boyd, in charge of ticket wagon. The show carries 75 head of work horses and 60 head of performing ponies. New cages have been built and the trick makes a fine, showy parade. - Boz. Billboard, July 21, 1917, p. 27.
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J. H. Boyer - 1908, 1910, 1913-15 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908-1914
1908: J. H. Boyer's Famous Shows opened their season at Llano, Texas, New Year's Day, playing to S. R. O. business. Billboard, January 25, 1908, p. 23.
1908: 1908: Circus Gossip. J. H. Boyer's Famous Shows have been doing good business in the South, having plenty of opposition. The show will play along the Coast during the winter months, starting North about March 15, reaching St. Louis about May 1, where they will inaugurate their summer tour. The roster: J. H. Boyer, owner; Floyd Trover, manager; Max Boyer, treasurer; Prof. Ring, bandmaster; Ben Glavin, piano and calliope; Ike Williams, in charge of top; Pete Shellborn, Frank Miller, Mr. and Mrs. Jack Walker, Mr. and Mrs. Fred W. Orr,Guy Snider, Chas. Livingston, Louis Morefield, Al Ott, Elsie Andonette, Cal Davenport, Z. Goza, Pete Kennedy, Sam Shellborn, S. E. Trover and V. M. Austin. Billboard, December 12, 1908, p. 20.
1910: J. H. Boyer is one of the most successful showmen in the country today, traveling in their own special cars. He has the largest and most extensively equipped one-car show of its kind. They have been on the road continuously for the last ten years and showed an immense profit. J. H. Boyer is general yardmaster of the Terminal Railroad at East St. Louis, Ill., has always routed his own shows and also the executive detail of the organization is handled by him. The show on the road has a full equipment under the supervision of his son, Max Boyer. They play drama and vaudeville. Billboard, June 25, 1910, p. 12.
1913: Floyd Trover, general agent of J. H. Boyer's Famous Jesse James Show. Mr. Trover has been ahead of the show for several years. The shows closed at Carmi, Ill. Billboard, December 6, 1913, p. 43.
1914: Granite City, Ill., April 18. Great J. H. Boyer Shows opened its season today. The big top is a 75 foot round top with 1 35 and 1 40 ft. middle pieces, white, trimmed in red; the sideshow tent 100 feet long, and a 40 foot dressing tent. The sideshow is under the direction of George Embree, with Buck Smith, the announcer, and Professor Silver, inside lecturer. Attractions: Madame Belle Sultana, Oriental dancer; Sparkle, educated pony; Mme. Montrose, mind reader; Great Marice, magician; Miss Gene ___, snake charmer; Professor Silver, Punch and Judy, and a show of two Oriental dancers. In the main tent which contains two rings, one section of reserved seats in red and three sections of blues, and a dozen Milburn lights. The music was furnished by Charles Darrow and his band of twelve pieces, in white trousers, blue coats trimmed in gold braid. The whistler of G. R. Deuel, equestrian director, brought forth the property men in bright red uniforms to start the best little dog and pony show seen in the Granite City.
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Display No. 1, Twelve pyramid ponies. Display No. 2, Albert Gaston, talking clown. Display No. 3, LaZelle Brothers, double trapeze. Display No. 4, Eight pony drill. Display No. 5, Clown number. Display No. 6, Two high school horses. Display No. 7, Twelve trained dogs. Display No. 8, Revolving ladder act. Display No. 9, Four dogs and four ponies, riding act. Display No. 10, Four pony novelty act. Display No. 11, Clown number. Display No. 12, Comedy dog act. Display No. 13, Leap frog pony. Display No. 14, See-saw ponies. Display No. 15, Revolving table act. Display No. 16, Clowns in January act.
The show closes with the concert consisting of six acts, by those doubling with the show. The show carries two free acts that go on the outside the tent before each performance, consisting of La Zella in his slide for life from the top of the highest tent pole, and the high-diving dog, "Dewey." Executive staff: J. H. Boyer & Co., owners; Max Boyer, manager; J. H. Boyer, Jr., treasurer; Georg Deuel, equestrian director; White Worsley, assistant ring master; C. A. Payne, superintendent of ticket sellers; DeWitt Newland, manager candy stand, and George Embree, manager sideshow. Billboard, April 25, 1914, p. 6.
1915: Winter quarters. J. H. Boyer Famous Shows; J. H. Boyer, prop.; East St. Louis, Ill. Billboard, January 9, 1915, p. 44.
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James Bradbury - 1916 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1916
James Bradbury Circus. James Bradbury, for several seasons connected with the Ringling Circus, has embarked for himself in the circus business, opening April 29 at Sullivan, Ind. It will be one of the largest overland shows in the Middle West, using a one hundred foot top, with fifty foot middle piece, traveling with auto equipment, consisting of eighteen trucks. Among the acts engaged are J. T. Lang, producing clown, with his trick mule; Gladys Langer, statuary horses and performing ponies and dogs; La Landa, Lang and Heyden, comedy acrobats; the Heyden Troupe, wire artists; Tullas La Landa, juggling act; Geneva Bradbury, menage act; Four Musical Bradburys, and others. C. A. Cash is musical director, with a ten piece uniform band. Staff includes James Bradbury, owner and general manager; Leo Lackey, assistant manager; Mrs. Minnie Bradbury, treasurer; Tullas La Landa, equestrian director; C. W. Compton, general agent with three assistants, and John Davis, boss canvasman. New York Clipper, April 29, 1916 [1915?], p. 31.
Terre Haute, Ind., Dec. 23. James Bradbury, of the Musical Bradburys, who embarked in the circus business last season, will open again early in May at Sullivan, Ind., the winter quarters of the outfit. New York Clipper, December 27, 1916, p. 14.
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Bradley & Benson Circus - 1945-46 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1944-46
1945: Owned by Clarence Walters, Ernie White and Jimmy Bagwell, the 1945 Bradley & Benson Circus and Rodeo used an open arena, with a canopy over the reserved seats and the blues out in the open. It was framed as a rodeo late in 1944. The program featured Mrs. Tom Mix; Adolph Delbosq with his stallion "Serenado," also equestrian director; Mlle. Delbosq, foot juggling; Lee Houston, leaping greyhounds, performing dogs, and a boxing kangaroo;; Captain Ernest Engener bareback riding troupe of three people and his lion act; Slim Biggerstaff, contortion; Swede Johnson, producing clown, with his "liberty mule" and comical bear cub; and Tex Dean and Pearl Snyder with their wonder horses. Mrs. Tom Mix was the former Mabel Ward of the one-armed plange fame. The annex had a snake charmer, fire eater and Punch and Judy act, etc. White Tops, July-August, 1945, Vol. 18, Nos. 6-9, p. 11.
1946: The Bradley & Benson Circus program included: Mrs. Tom Mix; the Flying Hartzells; Irma Ward, "Queen of the Air"; Chas. Arley, head balancing on the swinging trapeze; Slim Biggerstaff, contortion, single traps; Lee Houston's trained animals, canines, liberty mule, pickout pony, leaping greyhounds; Chip Morris' equine wonder, "Black Fox"; and clown numbers. Tige Hale had the five piece band. The show used a canopy top over patrons. Staff includes James Bagwell, owner-manager; Chip Morris, program director and announcer; Julien West, tickets; Tige Hale, band master. White Tops, May-June, 1946, Vol. 19, Nos. 5-6, p. 21.
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C. B. Brestle's - 1894
C. B. Brestle's Old Time One Ring Circus. Wanted, a few more aerial artists to travel with the best equipped forty horse cross road show in the U.S. Also, a few concert people, band of six pieces, and a troupe of trained dogs. Address C. B. Brestle, Bellefontaine, Ohio. My show makes first stand in this place April 27 and 28. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 31; March 24, 1894, p. 44.
1871: The statement that Chis B. Brestle went with Messrs. Batcheller & Doris, of O'Brien's menagerie, is an error. He does not go with them. New York Clipper, April 15, 1871, p. 15.
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Brewster-Higgins Pavilion Shows - 1900
Frank Dillon, general agent, wintered at Pappilon, Nebraska. Opened their season May 9, at Fremont, Nebraska. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6. All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Bristol's Circus - 1885, 1889, 1890-91, 1894 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1885-89
1885: D. M. Bristol is now sole owner of the Lewis & Bristol Equescurriculum, having purchased J. M. Lewis' interest. New York Clipper, December 5, 1885, p. 596.
1889:
Wanted, for Bristol's Circus, first class curiosities and magician, with their own paintings. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, June 22, 1889, p. 251.
Milford, Mass., July 17. The performance of Bristol's circus last evening had hardly begun when one-third of the seats on the entire west side of the tent gave way, and with 600 people, fell with a crash. Several people were badly injured and hundreds were more or less bruised. Physicans attended to the injured and the broken seats were removed. The performance was resumed. In a few minutes the reserved seats section, with 300 spectators, fell in. It was found that the supports of the seats in the wet ground had been forced down by overcrowding. No one was fatally injured. Yonkers Statemen (Younkers, NY), July 17, 1889, p. 1.
Professor D. M. Bristol's Cirque and Equescurriculum, which has been touring Australia with success, is now playing through New Zealand. In addition to the performing animals, the show includes the Brothers Hardee, Signor Roland, the Belmonts, Hippo, and Mlle. Zidoni. New York Dramatic Mirror, November 5, 1889, p. 9.
1890:
On the Road: Miscellaneous: Bristol's Equine, Selma, Ala. Jan. 2-4(?), Birmingham(?), 4-?, . . . Rome, Ga., 11. New York Clipper, December 31, 1889, p. 708.
Miscellaneous: Bristol's Equines, Gadsden, Ala. Jan. 9(?) . . . New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 725.
Bristol & Co.'s Circus, J. W. Burdette, proprietor. Wanted, a few more people in all branches of the business, male and female band. Expert male and female bicycle riders. Season opens June 2. All privileges for sale. Address W. H. Bristol, manager, Worcester, Mass. Belle Celeste and Mlle. Mill?, wire or write. New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 191.
Fred D. Ellis assumed the position of contractor and general agent ahead of W. H. Bristol's Circus. The show is traversing New England by wagon, and the advance brigade consists of four men and four horses. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 215.
On the Road, Circuses: Bristol & Co.'s. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210; June 21, 1890, p. 210.
Bristol & Co.'s Circus. J. H.(?) Burdette, sole proprietor. Wanted, bar team, black face knockabout team, to go in leaps and tumble, and a few more people in all branches, especially ladies; performing monkeys; also a band leader and a few good musicians. Side show and other privileges for sale. Play big towns and travel by rail. W. H. Bristol, manager, per route or Worcester, Mass. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 238.
Providence, Rhode Island. Bristol & Co.'s Circus, which had been in this State for over a month, came to grief at Olneyville 4(?). On the afternoon of the above date Deputy Sheriff Arnold(?) served a writ of attachment on the property for salary amounting to $214(?) due the Davene Bros., three of the performers. The parties who had the action brough against the owners agreed to allow the show to go on evening of 4(?) for the benefit of all the performers. The matter not being settled the next day, the tent was pulled down, and, with all the paraphernalia of the show, taken to the city, where it is now stored until a settlement is arrived at. Mr. Bristol tells us that the show was well equipped, and started out with a prospect of a good season, and had he taken the route over which he traveled last season, he would have undoubtedly done a good business. His season at Newport was a failure, in fact the daily expenses of the show have been far in excess of the receipts ever since it started out. The management does not appear at all dismayed at its misfortunes, but assures me that it will have the show on the road again in the course of a week, when it will make a tour of Southern Massachusetts. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 339.
The collapse of W. H. Bristol's Circus . . . It is the second disaster experienced by that show this season. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 339.
1891:
To which our Steubenville, O., correspondent adds: "I had an interesting talk with Wm. M. Shultz the other day. Mr. Shultz is a veteran showman, and is at present general agent for Prof. Bristol's Horse Show. During out conversation Mr. Shultz said: 'I can truthfully say to you that I have read every number of the Clipper from No. 1, Vol. 1, up to the present day, except four copies which I missed while I lay in Libby Prison . . ." New York Clipper, March 21, 1891, p. 24.
John C. Patrick reports phenomenal success for Prof. D. M. Bristol's Equescurriculum. The present tour will close July 4, and will be resumed Aug. 17. During the summer vacation many valuable improvements will be made. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 113.
1894:
Call. All parties booked with Bristol's Great World's Circus and Aggregation of Acrobatic Wonders must report to Bellfontain, O., for rehearsal May 7(?). Show opens May ?. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 127.
On the road, circuses: Bristol's, Plain City OH May 16, Milford Centre 17, North Lewisburg 18, Marysville(?) 19, West Mansfield 21, Richwood 22, La Rue 24 . . . New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.
1898: Prof. D. M. Bristol's Great American Cirque and Eques-Curriculum, which for several years has been in Australia, continues to do good business. The show is given under waterproof tents. New York Clipper, October 29, 1898, p. 594.
1899: The Phillipines. Manila, P. I., Jan. 22. The American announces the coming of Warren's Circus, and D. M. Bristol's Equescurriculum, sans date; sans place; sans price. . . . New York Dramatic Mirror, March 25, 1899, p. 13.
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Broncho Joe's - 1913-14 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1910-1914
1913: Jack Stevens and wife have charge of the concessions on the Broncho Joe Wild West and Society Circus. They will also have charge of the cook house shortly. This makes their third season with this show. Billboard, January 18, 1913, p. 42.
1913: Broncho Joe's Wild West Show, of which D. W. Perrine is manager, closes the season at Mason, Mich., September 20, and goes into winter quarters at Eaton Rapids, Mich. Billboard, September 27, 1913, p. 26.
1914: The Broncho Joe Wild West Shows opened the season at Eaton Rapids, Mich., May 2, to good business matinee and night. The show is owned and managed by Mrs. Grace Perrine. Everything is looking fine and the program was run off very smoothly at the opening performance. This is a twenty-wagon show, with forty head of stock, eight Shetlands, etc. The arena is 119 feet by 200 feet; there are two horse tents, cook tents, band sleeping tent, and several small sleeping tents. The band is under the leadership of F. Burch. The show has a very neat parade, consisting of band, several cages, cowboys, cowgirls, Indians, stage coach, prairie schooner, lead trained horses, Shetlands, dog wagon, calliope, clowns, etc., given in approved Western style, and led by Grace Perrine on her high school horse, Diamond. The program of the show: No. 1 — Cowboy and cowgirl sports. No. 2 — Trained dogs. No. 3 — Rifle shooting. No. 4 - Trained horses. No. 5 — Indian mail robbery. No. 6 — Jarjo. No. 7 — Rope spinning. No. 8 - Riding dog and monk. No. 9 — Contortion. No. l0 — Clown number. No. 11 — Trained horses. No. 12 — Clown number. No. 13 — January act. No. 14 — Chariot racing. No. 15 — Cowgirl race. No. 16 - Cowboy race. No. 17 — Stage coach robbery. Wm. McConkey is arena director, and Claude E. Snow is official announcer. At Hudson, Mich., May 11, the show had to tear down and move off the lot on account of high water; no particular damage was done, but business has been very good considering the rainy weather. Billboard, May 23, 1914, p. 22.
Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Brown & Pommier's - 1912-13 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1912-13
1912: Prof. Harris will again be the free attraction with the Brown & Pommier Combined Shows. The Harold Duo has also signed with the shows for the coming season. Billboard, April 6, 1912, p. 27.
1913: The Brown and Pommier Combined Shows are playing Northern Missouri to good business and enjoying the best of weather. Four more lengths of seats were ordered from winter quarters recently. Robert Clemments, formerly of the Mollie A. Bailey Show, is now with the show. Prof. Lester Joined recently with his free act, taking the place of Prof. Harris. Billboard, June 14, 1913, p. 21.
1913: Winter quarters. Brown & Pommier's Combined Shows, Leon Pommier, general manager, Richmond, Mo. Billboard, November 22, 1913, p. 68.
See also Pommier Bros.
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Jess Brown's Circus Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1895
• Brief information on the 1895 Jess Brown's New Colossal show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1995, Vol. 39, No. 2, p. 38.
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Ed Browne's - 1911 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1905-1913
Preparations are being made for the third annual tour of Ed Browne's Overland Show at winter quarters, Bath, Me. Fred Maxwell, general agent, and Bobby Maitland, musical director, have signed for the season. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
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Bryan's, Bryan & Williams - 1893-94
1893: Notes from the W. T. Bryan One Ring Circus. The last few weeks in Ohio business was poor, but since coming into Michigan we are using the "S.R.O." nightly. The company: W. T. Bryan, proprietor and manager; Emmett Snyder, treasurer; Chas. Kanell(?), master of canvas; Dad Stevens, master of horses; Lew Tennyson, master of lights; Lew Dell, properties; ___ Henry's band of eight pieces; W. T. Bryan, Kittie(?) Perrine, D. W. Perrine, Master Chas. Glassbrook, Mlle. Adele, the Janettes and W. S. Cole. Harry E. Scott joined Sept. 7(?), and has charge of the concert. Harry A. Stevens joined Aug. 31 and is now general agent. N. H. Scotten, boss bill poster with six assistants; Bennie(?) Kelly, programmer with two assistants; Geo. Munson, lithographer with two assistants. We have three more weeks in Norther Michigan. we close Sept. 30 and ship South. We reopen at Gainesburg, Tex., Oct. 22. We will travel in our own cars, four in number. All of the present company remain with us. We will close our season South about the middle of February. The man in white appears every Sunday. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 463.
1894: Roster of Bryan & Williams' Circus. W. T. Bryan and Eugene Williams, equal owners; W. T. Bryan, manager; E. Williams, treasurer; Floyd Trover, assistant manager; Leon Tucker, general agent with five assistants; Chas. Watson, equestrian manager; Chas. Elliot, boss hostler with twelve men; Hank Englehardt, in charge of canvas with fourteen men; Frank Howard, in charge of properties with three men; A. Kenzie, in charge of cook tent with two men; Wm. Cole, boss chandelier man with one assistant; Ed. Elliot(?), candy butcher; M. McConke, equine and canine paradox; ?. Bliss(?), leader of band with twelve men. Clint Williams has the side show. Musicians: I.(?) Bliss(?), Barney Warrick, Abner Brown, P. S. Godfrey, Ed. Gray, Earl Bliss, Lou. Gray, Fred Dra?ert, H. ?. Bryan, Chas. Rodford(?), Dave McCollogh, Lou Blackford. Performers: Ch. Watson, hurdle and principal rider; Lottie Watson, wire and Spanish rings; three Trover Bros., triple bars and grotesque; the Williams, Lena and Lottie, aerialitsts; Nellie Hanley, rolling globe and musical act; Dell ___, juggler and contortionist; Chas. Ellet, sailor perch and bounding rope; Chas. Glassbrook, equilibrist; Jas. Rowe, singing and talking clown; Chas. Orton(?), flying trapeze and knockabout clown; A. Kinzie, female impersonator; Wm. Peters and W. T. Bryan, knockabout clowns. . . . We use one band wagon, three cages, twenty mounted people, eight head of stock, ticket wagon and clown cart in parade. Show opened at Lansing, Mich., for four days, to big business; prospects are good for a long season. Rowe and Orton have secured the concert privileges. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.
1894: On the road, circuses: Bryan & Williams', Bronson(?) Neb May 16, Burr Oak 17, Centerville 18, Three Rivers 19, Marcellus(?) 20, Schoolcraft 22. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.
1894: Floyd Trover, of the Three Trover Bros., horizontal bar team, with the Bryant & Williams Circus was presented on May 10(?) with a K. of P. emblem by the performers with the show. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 164.
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Bryant & Edgerton Sisters' New Model Circus - 1893 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1893
W. T. Bryant's and the Edgerton Sisters' New Model Shows opened May ? at Charlotte, Mich. The canvas is a 100ft. round top with a 40ft. middle piece. The tent was packed to the entrance. Their street parade is a feature. The roster: W. T. Bryant, Geo. Edgerton and Geo. Blowers, proprietors; Geo. Edgerton, general manager; Geo. Blowers, treasurer; W. T. Bryan, assistant manager and equestrian director; Prof. Taylor's band of ten mouthpieces; H. Tinker, advance agent, with five men; W. T. Bryant, Edgerton Sisters, Du Rell, Ortone Bros., Leona La Tow, Prof. Perri?, Geo. Depree and Hopely, Geo Blowers, Geo. Edgerton, S. Scribner, Kittie Perine, Lillian Morton, Mille Lolo, Milo and Shoffer, E. Stafford, Marguerite Evans, and Babe Evans. New York Clipper, May 13, 1893, p. 148.
Notes from the W. T. Bryan and Edgerton Sisters' New Model Circus. We are now in our sixth week and turning people away. The "Man in White" makes his regular weekly visit. Six large dapple gray horses for band wagon and six small Shetland ponies have been added to the show. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 214.
The Show Departs. The W. T. Bryant Combination Goes to Chicago. The last remnant of the W. T. Bryant "New Model Circus" went to Chicago Monday. One of the partners, a disconsolate looking man, stood thoughtfully beside a circus wagon at the show grounds yesterday afternoon. Then he went to a blacksmith shop and sold the wagon for $1. He was a one-third owner in the circus and a performer. The two Edgerton Sisters, trapeze performers, who are relatives of this man, left town with him Monday afternoon, riding on their two white horses. Thus departed by separate ways all that was left of the "New Model Circus." Fort Wayne Weekly Gazette, August 3, 1893, p. 5.
From W. T. Bryan and Edgerton Sisters' New Model Circus. We are now in our twelfth week and are doing a big business. We have added a new fifty foot middle piece and have purchased four more horses. Chas. Orton, of the Orton Brothers, received a bruised leg last week by a horse falling on him while riding in the entree. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
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Buchanan Bros. - 1900 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908
Bill posters and others are warned to be careful about taking the show's business. Several reports have come in telling of people who have had the worst of the deal with Buchanan Bros., and the latest is from Pella, Ia., where the bill poster who did the show's work was unable to make connections with the show's cash box. In fact, the show would not pay out a cent to any one. Billboard, June 9, 1900. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Buckley & Co.'s - 1874 or Soulier, Buckley & Co.
The World's Great Race Combines, Real Roman Hippodrome, and World's Fair, of which "Yankee" Robinson is general superintendent, is to commence the season at Elkhorn, Wis., May 11. New York Clipper, May 9, 1874, p. 47. See Buckley & Co. below
Yankee Robinson and George Castello are in Chicago, Ill., says our correspondent, trying to negotiate for the Exposition Building for the Harry Buckley Roman Hippodrome. Their establishment will pitch tent at Delavan, Wis., May 18, and then proceed throughout the Northwest. New York Clipper, May 16, 1874, p. 55.
Soulier, Buckley & Co.'s Universal Fair and Real Roman Hippodrome, with "Yankee" Robinson as agent, exhibits at Champaign, Ill., May 26. This concern uses no tents, except for sideshows, but hires fair grounds at each county seat, and advertises "every kind of show in the world." They have eleven cages of animals and two small elephants. The show will be at Peoria, June 1, Davenport, Ia., 2. New York Clipper, May 30, 1874, p. 71.
Buckley & Co.'s Great World Race Congress is billed for Peoria, Ill., June 1, Davenport, Ia., 2, Muscatine 3, Iowa City 4, Des Moines 5, Ottamwa 6, Oskaloosa 8, Marshalltown 9, Cedar Rapids 10, and thence through all the important railroad towns in the Northwest. New York Clipper, June 6, 1874, p. 79.
Buckley & Soulier & Co.'s Hippodrome is to be at St. Paul, Minn., June 20, Mankato 22, Rochester 23, Winona 24. They have recently added an immense canvas to their concern, thus dispensing with the use of the Fair grounds, and gaining a night show. W. C. Crum is now advertising agent, and business is reported good. New York Clipper, June 13, 1874, p. 87.
Buckley & Co.'s Combination did an immense business at Peoria, Ill., on June 1, wrote our correspondent on the 5th, continuing: " . . . They exhibit under canvas, not a tent, but a canvas wall, inclosing several acres of ground, forming an open court of an elliptical shape in the centre. This court is arranged with seats upon a portion of the long sides, and over the seats a canvas is spread, to protect visitors from the sun and storm. Inside of the row of seats a track is laid out, over which the chariot, hurdle, pony, Indian, elephant and camel races are run. The canvas can be indefinitley extended and made as large as necessity requires. The track was about one-fifth of a mile, in an oblong shape. In an outer tent were 15 cages of animals and a few other curiosities. The performances in the arena began with a procession, then came an exhibition of the Indian game of La Crosse by twenty red men of the Iroquois nation, followed by the chariot, hurdle and sack races. There were also some exhibitions of posturing and gymnastics, and an allegorical sketch of the rescue of Capt. Smith by Pocahontas, enacted by the Indians. Mr. Smith, the pedestrian, also gave exhibitions of his merits as a walkist by walking backward and forward around the track with the elephant. The show is entirely different from what the Western people have been used to witness. The variety show connected with this establishment is under the control of Yankee Robinson, and while in this city he effected an engagement with Eph. Piper and Lew(?) Robinson, song-and-dance and cloggists. Mr. W. Crum, late of the Barnum show, is with this company." New York Clipper, June 13, 1874, p. 87.
"Yankee" Robinson, who was connected with Buckley's Great Roman Hippodrome in some capacity at an early part of the tenting season, attached that show at Athens, O., on Oct. 22, for an alleged claim of $___. When Mr. Buckley found that his show could only be released by depositing $17,000, he offered to compromise, and the affair was settled by paying Mr. Robinson $1,000. New York Clipper, November 7, 1874, p. 255.
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Buckley's Hippodrome - 1875
Ten cages of animals, twenty horses, and an elephant arrived at Cincinnati, O., the past week in charge of J. D. Evans, from the late Chicago Show at Gordontown, Va. They are for Buckley's Hippodrome, which is wintering in that city under the care of Byron V. Rose. That show expects to start on the road about April 1. New York Clipper, January 16, 1875, p. 335.
Buckley's Hippodrome will be run the next tenting season by Torry, Miles and De Haven, with Andy Haight ahead. New York Clipper, January 23, 1875, p. 343.
The Miaco Brothers are engaged for the coming traveling season with Buckley's Hippodrome. New York Clipper, February 20, 1875, p. 375.
Frank Ufner will run the privileges with De Haven's Great Hippodrome this season. New York Clipper, March 6, 1875, p. 391.
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Buckskin Ben's Wild West - 1909, 1910, 1912, 1918 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908-1913, 1924
1909: Buckskin Ben's Wild West: Ben Stalker ("Buckskin Ben"), proprietor; Geo. O. Litt, general manager; Frank S. Reed, assistant manager and press representative; Mrs. Ben Stalker, treasurer and manager commissary dept.; Geo. Stalker ("Buckskin Ben, Jr."), equestrian director; Prof. Doc Howard, supt. of stock; W. D. Wager leader of band and orchestra. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1910: Buckskin Ben's Wild West and Dog and Pony Shows has signed a contract to play at Terre Haute, Ind., the week of May 23 as the feature attraction of the G.A.R. Encampment. . . . At the close of the Terre Haute engagement the show jumps back to Cambridge City and plays one afternoon and evening, jumping from there to Flint, Mich., where it joins the Herbert A. Kline Shows for the season. Buckskin Ben's private car will arrive in Cambridge City about May 1, from Chicago, and after a few alterations will be ready for the road. The car contains six staterooms, kitchen and dining room and sleeping accommodations for thirty-two people. In conncetion with the living car, a 60 foot baggage car will be carried for the show stuff. Billboard, April 23, 1910, p. 18.
1912: The Aerial Derbys have closed their fourth season as free attraction with Buckskin Ben's Wild West recently. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
1918: Winter quarters. Buckskin Ben's Wild West, Ben Stalker, proprietor; Cambridge City, Ind. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
1918: Dayton, O., April 12. Charles Arnold, owner of the Fashion Plate Expo. Shows, has purchased the Buckskin Ben Wild West and will feature the show with his carnival company. Mr. Arnold has spent most of his life in the circus business. He started his circus career with the Reno & Alvord Circus in 1885 and entered the carnival game in 1984. Billboard, April 20, 1918, p. 38.
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Buckskin Bill's Wild West - 1900, 1904, 1918 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1900-02, 1904
1900:
Opened at Paducah, Kentucky, May 5. The show turned 2,000 people away at the night show at Memphis, Tennessee, May 10. The got roasted in the papers for not carrying more seating capacity, although they had up fifty-six lenghts of seats. The crowds were so dense that no one could see the show to advantage, thence the newspaper criticisms. Whitey Larkin now has the stock (146 head), and Jack Pheiffenberger has the canvas, and the show is now handled with ease and certainty. George Fisher is the 24-hour man. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6; May 21, 1900, p. 5.
Buckskin Bill's Wild West turned 2,000 people away at the night show at Memphis, Tenn., Wednesday night, May 10. They got roasted in the papers for not carrying more seating capacity, although they had up fifty-six lenghts of seats. The crowds were so dense that no one could see the show to advantage, hence the newspaper criticisms. Whitey Larkin now has the stock (146 head), and Jack Pheiffenberge has the canvas, and the show is now handled with ease and certainty. George Fisher is the twenty-four-hour man. William Sloman has signed as contracting agent with Buckskin Bill's Wild West. Billboard, May 19, 1900, p. 5.
Terre Haute, Ind., May 23. (Special.) During the performance of "Buckskin Bill" here tonight, several persons were accidentally shot by Elmer Mendenhall, aged 19, one of the crack shots with the company. Mendenhall was shooting at clay pigeons with a Winchester shotgun. In raising the gun, the hammer caught on his cartridge belt, and the shell exploded, the No. 6 shot that it contained scattering among the audience. A scene of great confusion occurred. Mendenhall was arrested and placed under $3,000 bond. Mendenhall's home is at Oskaloosa, Ia. Billboard, June 2, 1900, p. 5.
Sid. Terrell, of the Buckskin Bill Wild West, paid a flying visit to Cincinnati June 13. He was accompanied by his general agent, Dan R. Robinson. Geo. Peck has left the Buckskin Bill Wild West Show, on account of a severe spell of illness.
The Buckskin Bill Wild West was almost burned up at Big Rapids, June 14. A big planing mill on the lot caught fire and the wind carried the flames and sparks in dangerous proximity to the show. A hasty tear-down resulted in the loss of the afternoon show. Billboard, June 23, 1900, p. 5; May 21, 1900, p. 5.
Paducah, Ky., Aug. 9. Buckskin Bill's Wild West Circus to-day sued the Erie Lithographing Company, of Erie, Pa., for $2,560, alleging violation of contract in not delivering lithographs, so as not to delay the circus. The Erie Company had shipped $2,560 worth of paper to Paducah, C. O. D. The Messrs. Terrell Bros., who own the Buckskin Bill Shows, paid the C. O. D. and took the paper out, but before the agent of the Adams Express Company could return the money Messrs. Terrell Bros. attached it. Thus was the unusual anomaly presented of a show attaching a show printer. The Terrell Bros. base their suit upon the grounds that the paper was not printed on contract time, and that it has not been shipped promptly at their orders. They aver that they have been damaged severely and caused great loss thereby. Billboard, August 18, 1900, p. 5; May 21, 1900, p. 5.
Sam Dawson is now in charge of the No. 1 Car of the Buckskin Bill Wild West. Buckskin Bill's Wild West got considerably more than its allowance of rain at the beginning, and it had its usual effect on the receipts. Business has improved considerably of late, however, and the outlook has improved commensurately. Billboard, June 30, 1900, p. 5.
Buckskin Bill's Wild West. The two large new buildings that have been in course of construction since Nov. 1 are now nearing completion, and will be ready for occupancy by Jan. 1, at which time active work will commence, to put all the wagons, paraphernalia, etc., in repair for the season of 1901. The buildings are located on Vice President Ed. Terrell's farm in the northern limits of the city of Paducah, Ky., which contains about 800 acres of land. Several new and costly wagons will be built for the parade. Secretary Fletcher Terrell is now in Texas for the purpose of buying a carload of long-horned Texas steers, and will also extend his trip to Montana, where he contemplates purchasing six of eight buffalo for the arena performance. The season will open in Paducah, Saturday, April 27. Sid. Terrell. Billboard, December 29, 1900.
• Information on the 1900 Buckskin Bill show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 2000, Vol. 44, No. 6, pp. 10-11.
• An article on the 1902-03 Buckskin Bill's Wild West Show, Henry E. Allott (Henry "Bunk" Allen), is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, Vol. 29, No. 1, pp. 32-39.
1904: Harry W. Semon was general agent and railroad contractor. H. E. Allott was manager circa 1904. Bandwagon, July-August, Vol. 12, No. 4, 1968, p. 23.
1918: Winter quarters. Buckskin Bill's Wild West Show, Washington, Pa. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
1918: L. D. Foster says that the Buckskin Bill Show will not go out this season as the Colonel is busy buying war horses. Billboard, May 4, 1918, p. 30.
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Buffalo Bill's Wild West - 1895, 1902 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1883-1913, 1971, 1977-1980, 1983 (various proprietors)
In 1895 the show played 131 cities in 190 days. The draft stock, wagons and rolling stock belonged to James A. Bailey and W. W. Cole, both receiving a share of the profits. They also supplied advance men, billposters and others. The program for the 1895 show is in Bandwagon, October, 1943, Vol. 2, No. 6, p. 8.
• Information on the 1898 Buffalo Bill show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1999, Vol. 43, No. 2, pp. 42-47.
1902: An article on the 1902 show is online in Bandwagon, October 1953 (scroll down).
• An article on the marketing of the Buffalo Bill show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 2, pp. 24-29.
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Buffalo Bill-Pawnee Bill Wild West - 1913 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1913
Dave Jarrett, manager of the Two Bills' opposition car, having removed his family to Aurora, Ill., is now a Chicago suburbanite. Dave will be with the Wild West and Far East again next season. Prof. William Sweeney, leader of the famous cowboy band, will shortly leave for one of Col. Cody's mine holdings in Arizona, where he will put in the winter months and begin his education as a mining expert. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
The 1913 tour of Buffalo Bill-Pawnee Bill Wild West came to a sudden close in Denver, Colo., July 22, when minions of the law swooped down and took possesion of everything. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
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Bullen's - 1952 (Australia)
Brief information on the 1952 show is online in Bandwagon, March 1952 (scroll down).
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Buller's - 1919, 1920 Buller's Circus listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1919-1929
1919: The show played British Columbia, Canada. Robert W. Buller, owner, manager. C. W. Scott was lot superintendent. Show carried about 100 trained domestic animals, aerial and ground performers, an 18 piece band. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 52, 1973, p. 4.
1919: Wanted for Buller Bros. Shows, performers in all lines for circus, especially acrobatic acts with four or more in act. Comedy act, clowns, Wild West cowboys and cowgirls, with or without stock. Band leader and musicians. Bosses in all departments, working men for same. Will book or buy troupe of dogs or other domestic animal acts. Workingmen apply for steamer fare to Purser, City of Angeles, Coleman Dock, Seattle, Wash. Buller Bros., Friday Harbor, San Juan Island, Wash. [Advertisment] Billboard, March 15, 1919, p. 63.
1919: Robert W. Buller's Trained Animal Shows wants for the coming season, girl acts for circus, trapeze, wire, iron jaw, juggling, also musicians that are on the Coast, clowns, side show people Will buy goat act, somersault or leaping dogs or any domestic animal act. Workingmen address C. W. Scott, Friday Harbor, Wash. Sideshow people address Zelno, care Buller's Shows, Victoria. Performers address Robert W. Buller, Victoria, B.C. Billboard, December 20, 1919, p. 90.
More on the 1919 Buller's show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
1920: Robert W. Buller's Trained Animal Show: Robert W. Buller, proprietor and manager; Arthur Burrows, assistant manager; F. I. Buller, treasurer; C. ?. Young, general agent; Gorion Smith, press agent; W. H. Kilbourne, manager side show; Merrit Belew, equestrian director; Zelno, supt. privileges; C. W. Scott, supt. canvas; T. Nuddelman, boss hostler; John Nobby Clark, supt. commissary dept.; Frank Woolworth, supt. lights; Arthur Buller, supt. props.; Fog Horn, supt. ring stock; C. E. Young, manager advance car. Opens at Friday Harbor, Wash., May 1. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
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Burch & Reiss - 1906-07 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1906-07
1906: Burch & Reiss' dog and pony show will be here on Saturday. In conjunction with the animal feature acts will be presented troupes of Japanese acrobats, gymnasts, and aerialists; funny clowns, jugglers, and other features for this the first western tour of these shows. Street parade will take place on the morning of the exhibition, at which time the entire company of over 350 animal actors will be seen decked out in their holiday garb. Free pony rides after the matinee performance. Woodland Daily Democrat (Woodland, CA), March 29, 1906, p. 1.
1907: Burch and Reiss, the carnival promoters, have organized a pony and dog circus which will go out the coming season under the firm's name and management. It opens in Seattle, Wash., May 6. A number of circus acts are being booked for the show by Charles L. Sasse. It will play 30 weeks in the far West. Variety, March 30, 1907, p 10.
C. T. Burch Circus - 1907
Wanted for the Great C. T. Burch Shows for season 1907, opening the middle of March, in Sacramento, California, performers in all branches of the circus business, including riders, with their own stock; agent, twenty-four hour man, billposters, manager for sideshow (on salary or percentage); also side show attractions of all kinds; musicians of all kinds; also colored band and jubilee singers; drivers and chandelier man. Want to buy flat, stock and sleeping cars. Address E. M. Burk, general manager, Sacramento, Calif. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 2, 1907, p. 13.
Col. E. M. Burk is the general manager of the Great C. T. Burch Circus. Mr. Burk has engaged J. H. R. Fitzpatrick, formerly with the Norris & Rowe Shows, as general agent. New York Clipper, March 30, 1907, p. 167.
Notes from the C. T. Burch Shows. Roster of advance: owner, C. T. Burch; general manager, E. M. Burk; general agent, J. H. B. Fitzpatrick; railroad contractor, William Gilson; press representative, Harold Carpenter; local contractor, Victor Stout; car manager, Truck Williams; boss billposter, Tom Scanlan; billposters, Chas. Scraggs, Edward Redmund, Jim Gillett, Harry Bowers, John Peters, W. Carpenter, Harry Williams, Slim Johnson, Red Harris and Bob White; excursion men, John Johnson. W. H. Cooms, Ed Russell, Will Dixon and Chas. Birmingham. Opening performance at Sacramento, Cal., April 4. New York Clipper, May 11, 1907, p. 324.
The C. T. Burch Circus stranded in Paola, Kan., on July 16, and the employees have scattered to all parts of the country. No salaries had been paid for some time past, and the manager claims to have lost $50,000 in the last month through that State. The property of the co. will be held there until the stock-holders are heard from. New York Dramatic Mirror, August 3, 1907, p. 12.
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Burgess' American Circus - 1850 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1850
A small circus framed in Lafayette, Indiana, by Samuel P. Burgess. It traveled in Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, Illinois and Missouri. Thayer's Annals of the American Circus.
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T. K. Burk's - 1889, 1890-92 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1887-1892
T. K. Burk was part owner of King, Burk & Franklin Circus that toured 1884-85, King, Burk & Co. in 1886. In 1887 King and Frankling went their own way with a show and Burk formed his own show, the T. K. Burk Circus that toured from 1887 to 1892. Bandwagon, September-October, Vol. 13, No. 5, 1969, p. 2.
1889:
The two La Rosas, Frank and Eddie, are still creating a great sensation with T. K. Burk’s Circus, this being their nineteenth week with that show, their double bar act and Spanish ring act being one of the principal features. They are now en route south with Burk’s Circus. New York Clipper, September 14, 1889, p. 443.
1890:
Wanted, for T. K. Burk's Big Railroad Shows, people in all branches of the circus business, concert people, musicians, who double in orchestra; also billposters, lithographers, programmers, boss hostler, grooms, chandelier man and canvas man. Sideshow is let on percentage. Candy stand and balloon privilege to let. Show opens early in April at South Lebanon, O. Wanted to hear from all of last year's people who closed with the show. Address T. K. Burk, South Lebanon, O. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 782.
Will W. Brown has been engaged to do Punch and Judy with the T. K. Burke Show the coming season. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 829.
The Three Melrose Bros., acrobats(?), have signed with T. K. Burk's for the tenting season of 1890. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 861.
Mc??ay and Gibbs(?), acrobats, have signed for this season with S. K. Burke's Big Show. They have an entirely new act, and will start out with a new wardrobe. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 5.
Wanted for T. K. Burk's Gigantic Trans-Atlantic Shows. Ten grooms and four horse drivers. Also, twenty canvas men. Address T. K. Burk, Lebanon, O. New York Clipper, April 5, 1890, p. 63.
Notes from the T. K. Burk Show. This show, which has been wintering at South Lebanon, O., reopened there April 1?, after a thorough refitting and enlargement. It has new cars, wagons, wardrobes . . . Ralph Peckham(?) has charge of advertising car No. 1 with sixteen men. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Show. Our season opened April ??, at South Lebanon, O., to excellent business, despite rainy weather. Everything is brand new, from the big top to the cook tent . . . The roster: T. K. Burk, E. M. Burk, manger . . . De Forest Davis . . . Three Melrose Bros. . . . Will ?. Brown . . . the Leonard Sisters . . . Ollie Evans . . . New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
Circus people wanted. Shortest season ever run, 40 weeks. Wanted strong specialities, women especially. Address T. K. Burk, Windsor, Vt. New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 271.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Show. Business continues big. . . . Ed. Burk is on the sick list. His wife and baby joined at Canton(?), N. Y. Willie Akron joined at Brandon, Vt. The Gilmore(?) Bros. joined at Barry(?). Everyone is enjoying the best of health . . . New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
D. F. Davis, general agent of the T. K. Burk Show, paid us a call July 9. He reports the show to be doing a good business through Vermont and Massachusetts. Master Mechanics Paige and Hitchcock, of the Connecticut River Railroad, have just turned out a magnificent bill(?) car for the show. They anticipate touching a portion of Eastern Pennsylvania soon, and the car has been painted green. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 294.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Show. Business at Long Branch and Asbury Park was very good, despite the bad weather. The Burk Show was the first canvas organization that ever spread a top at Asbury Park. . . . While at Asbury Park Geo. Orrin, Al. W. Richards . . . paid a call. The sensation of the day was the marriage in the ring at the conclustion of the evening performance of Louis Ford, of Asbury Park, to Mary ___, of Ocean Grove, both non-professionals, who responded to Mr. Burks' offer of ___ gold to any couple who would be united in marriage in sawdust arena. New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 323.
Wanted, the T. K. Burk Show enlarging and reorganizing for a long tour, want people in every branch of the circus business. Performers, musicians, four horse drivers, grooms, property men, ring makers, seat man, canvas men, etc. Address Harrisburg, Pa. New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 335.
Charles Hall has closed the sideshow with the T. K. Burk's Circus, and is now at Pottstown, Pa., resting and making preparations for the fairs. He has engaged the following people to open in Indiana Aug 11: Will W. Brown, Will Wikoff, Zelica, Millie Mereita, Al. Rice and James Melloy. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 342.
Paterson, New Jersey. Four circuses in five days . . . T. K. Burk's, Aug. 11, Irwin Bros., 12(?), Washburn & Arlington's 13. Robert Hunting's Show was well patronized __. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 354.
A unique and unexpected feature was introduced at the evening performance of T. K. Burk's Circus, at Reading, Pa., Aug. 14, in the shape of a wedding ceremony in the ring. The bride was Lizzie Jones(?), of that city, and the groom was D. O.(?) Basman(?), formerly a resident of Ephrata, Lancaster County, but recently employed as a driver by the Reading Transfer Co. The circus was exhibiting at the lot Sixth and Greenwich Streets, and the regular performance had just been complted, when, with the ___ of the management, the bridal party entered the ring, stepping to the music of Mendelssohn's "Wedding March," played by the circus band. The groom was accompanied by Alderman Kramer, T. K. Burk . . . and the bride was attended by Jennie Atwood. . . . Alderman Kramer tied the nupial knot. The audience had been looking on with breathless interest, and when it was all over they set up a mighty cheer. At the conclusion of the wedding the management of the circus presented $100(?) to the couple, who left the grounds in a coupe, followed by cheers. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
T. K. Burk, of Burk's Trans-Atlantic Shows, was a pleasant Clipper caller Aug. 16(?). Business continues good with the Little Giant. Mr. Burk has purchased a complete new sideshow outfit - a new canvas 50x90ft.(?), and twenty-four new double deck paintings. Donald Burns(?) has furnished a large number of animals, birds, snakes, etc. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
Newburg, New York. Prof. Burk's Trans-Atlantic Show and Equine College exhibited here to big business. Almost a panic was created during the afternoon performance by a portion of the tent being blown down during a severe wind and rain storm. . . . New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 374.
Wanted, for T. K. Burk's Great R. R. Show, boss canvasman, chandelier man, workingmen of all kinds; also a tuba player. Nashua, N. H., Aug. __, Manchester, N. H., 30(?), Lawrence, Mass., Sept. 1. Glassblowers. Notice - having entirely reorganized and enlarged my sideshow, I have a good opening . . . Address T. K. Burk, Nashua, N. H. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 382.
Notes from the T. K. Burk Show. Mr. Burk, in addition to the many novel ideas of advertising his show, has engaged Prof. Robert Burr, the stereo???ist, to illuminate the wall of the cities on their route in advance of his new Trans-Atlantic Shows. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 387.
Notes from the T. K. Burk Show. We are doing a fine business through New England. We recently performed in four different states in four consecutive show days - Co??ville, Pa., Patterson, J. J., Newbury, N. Y., and Danbury, Ct. George Fielding, juggler, and the ___, acrobats, are recent additions. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 423.
Wanted, musicians and performers. Murfreesboro [sic?] Nov. 13, Lebanon 14, Nashville 17, all in Tennessee. T. K. Burke. New York Clipper, November 15, 1890, 575.
The T. K. Burk R. R. Shows will close an unusually prosperous season of thirty-six weeks at Augusta, Ga., Dec. 31, having exhibited in nineteen different states, and traveled eight thousand miles without a serious accident or missing a stand. The show will go into winter quarters at the Exposition Buildings, Augusta, and will open early in March, entirely refitted and greatly enlarged. New York Clipper, December 27, 1890, p. 661.
1891:
Chas. Lovell, contortionist, closed his third season with T. K. Burk's Show at Savannah, Ga. New York Clipper, January 10, 1891, p. 699.
De Forrest Davis (“Pop”) is wintering with his family in Columbus, O., after a long season with the Burk Show. New York Dramatic News, February 7, 1891, p. 12.
W. K. Burke [sic] is engaging a fine lot of performers for his enlarged show. His troupe of equines are in great condition, and working better than ever. New York Dramatic News, February 7, 1891, p. 12.
T. K. Burk's Money Winning Mascot will soon be on the road with the neatest and most complete outfit it has ever had. The agents and billposters are gathering, and nearly ready to start. The cars have all been overhauled, and they are now out of the shops, fully equipped and glistening with new paint. The parade will be a strong feature this season, with two bands and several novelties which are attractive. The show will go out with forty six head of horses, and two new baggage wagons have been built during the winter. Everybody at winter quarters is working with a vim, and all are anxious for the opening, which will take place at Augusta, Ga., where the show is wintered. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
T. K. Burk's New United Shows, wanted performers in all branches with new, novel and sensational acts, riders and concert people. First class musicians and bag pipes. Also wanted for advance, contracting agent, twenty experienced billposters, man with stereopticon and views. Also, workingmen of all kinds. Boss hostler, grooms and six and eight horse drivers. Candy stand and programe privileges for sale. Performers playing brass preferred. Show opens early in March. Address T. K. Burk, Augusta, Ga. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 765.
De Forrest Davis, he of the old Coup show of 1881, and recently of Burk’s circus, is wintering in Columbus, O. New York Dramatic News, February 14, 1891.
John Drsha(Drsua?), wire performer, has signed with T. K. Burk's Circus, making his second season with that show. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 795.
The T. K. Burk Show, which has been wintering at Augusta, Ga., has taken ___ by the forelock this spring and is now ready for the circus season. The show goes out stronger than at any previous time. A new menagerie top has been received. . . . The advance will be under the direction of T. K. Burk. . . . Ralph W. Peckham will have charge of advertising car. E. M. Burk, who has successfully handled the show for the past three(?) seasons, is manager; Chas. Lovell, treasurer . . . James Davis(?), boss canvasman; and Tom Brown, master of transportation. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
The Gillmore Bros., aerialists, have signed with T. K. Burk's Circus. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
T. K. Burk has secured a fine new golden chariot to be used in his spectacular production of "Cinderella(?)" the coming season. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 5.
Wanted, a few more circus performers, would like to hear from a good bar team and brother act; also a competent man to take charge of advertising car. T. K. Burk, Augusta, Ga. New York Clipper, March 21, 1891, p. 34.
T. K. Burk's Circus opened at its winter quarters, Augusta, Ga. last week. The street parade, with two bands and the Cinderella coach and performing horses made a creditable display, and there was a good attendance for the opening performance. The stock is in fine shape, the tents have been renewed, wagons painted, harness over-hauled, and a splendid troupe secured. The roster includes: T. K. Burk, proprietor; E. M. Burke, general manager; Jas. Davis, boss canvasman; Larry Moore, boss hostler . . . Gilmore Bros.; Jas. Dilks(?), John Cormack . . . and others. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 59.
T. K. Burk's Show opened under very favorable auspices at Augusta, Ga., March 28. Large audiences were present. The company are all in good health, and the prospects are bright for an excellent season. The street parade was made impressive by two bands of seventeen and twelve pieces, a caliope [sic] and chime bells. . . . Jim Davis handles the canvas skillfully, and perfect system is maintained in every department. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
Keokuk, Iowa. Harris' Nickel Plate came 19(?), 20(?) to full tents the first day. Rain prevented any show night of 20(?). T. K. Burk's Circus is billed for 27. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 199.
On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Keokuk, Ia. May 27. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
Wanted, musicians and performers in all branches of the circus business. Wire or write Madison, Wis., June 6. Also candy butchers. T. K. Burk. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 225.
Wanted, first class circus musicians of all kinds; also four and six horse drivers. Address T. K. Burk, Neenah, Wis. June 2?, Kaukauna ??, Marinette ??, Menominee, Mich. 27(?), Oconto, Wis. 2?. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 275.
Wanted, sensational female acts, and riders with stock. Address T. K. Burke [sic] Show, Mankato, Minn. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 324.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Circus. We are about to enter upon the fourth month of our season, and business is still immensely satisfactory. Every one seems in a happy mood. We recently received our new big top, 210x110ft. Belle Tellfair(?) was badly bitten by her largest snake at Kankana, but has kept at work. Nearly half a hundred tooth marks were counted upon her wrist. Deforrest Davis joined us July 8(?) at Baraboo, Wis. Aug. Schultz closed at Watertown, and will join the musical forces at Lookout Mountain, Tenn. Landlord Riece(?) is kept busy looking after the general interests of the aggregation, and attending to the needs of the culinary department. At Milwaukee our Sunday performance was largely attended by the attaches of the Forepaugh Show. While at Baraboo we were royally entertained by the Senior Ringling, and carefully shown around the large headquarters of the show which honors his name. T. K. Burk occasionally is a welcome visitor from ahead. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
W. O. Rollins(Hollins?) has closed with T. K. Burk's Circus, and is spending a few weeks with his mother at Rochester, N.Y. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
T. K. Burk's Circus, so a correspondent writes, have been playing to splendid business during the past three weeks. At St. Paul, they could not seat the crowds, although they had room for 5,000(6,000?). After four days in that city they visited Minneapolis for three days, and had a repetition of the St. Paul business. Then a jump to West Superior and Duluth, and they found a hearty welcom in both places. By hard work, Mr. Burk succeeded in getting the show hauled over the Iron Range Railroad to Ely and Tower, towns of 4,000 and 6,000 respectively, where the business was simply incredible, as this was the first show that had ever visited these place, the railroad always refusing to haul one to that country. Through Minnesota and Dakota the train sped its way, receiving hearty welcome at every stand. They showed at Winnipeg, Man., Aug 10, 11, and being the first circus to visit there in four years, they anticipated a jam. De Forest Davis is piloting the show through good country, while Ralph Peckham superintends the paste brigade, and is putting handsome paper on the wall. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
The T. K. Burk Shows continue to do an immense business in the Northwest. We made a jump of 298(?) miles last Sunday to reach Winnipeg, but we "got there" in good time, and the "immense spread of canvas" was looming up on the Hudson Bay flats early next morning. The city wsa "fresh," we being the first circus to visit there in five years, and as a consequence the tent was packed at each performance during our two days' stay. Each act was received with uproarious applause. The "Kid" show also came in for so large a patronage that Gus Fairbanks' satchel was a load to carry. The concert performers took the large audience by storm. Prof. E. M. Burk's educated horses were the talk of the city during their stay. Carley Lovell is actually losing flesh carrying around the bank roll. T. K. Burk, D. F. Davis and Prof. Linton were all visitors with us at Winnipeg. The "gentleman in white" promenades every week. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
The Welch Bros., Frank and James, closed with T. K. Burk's Show at Kansas City, Mo. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 502.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Shows. On our second day at ___, where we played to an immense business, T. K. Burke, our proprietor, arrived from Chicago, bringing with him two flat cars containing one large new canvas wagon and four cages of birds, manimals and monkeys; also, one large stock car, with eighteen head of ring and draught horses. This new addition puts the show on a level with any now traveling, and fully equips it for the South. Our assistant manager, Dutch ___, presented Miss Ethel, the little daughter of Mr. and Mrs. E. M. Burk, with a beautiful road cart and pony, which, from all appearances, she fully appreciates, leading the parade every day with the genial Dutch. Sig. Zano, in his principal riding act, is quite a feature, and his four horse riding act, which concludes the performance, is simply immense. At Lincoln, Neb., the crowd was so thick for two days around the ticket wagon that it kept Charley ___ busy to rush the tickets out and handle the change. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 502.
The T. K. Burk Shows left the state of Kansas Sept. 29(?), at Fort Scott, having made nine(?) stands in the state to uniform good busines except at Paola, where we had two shows in opposition, as well as the wild rumors regarding the Wallace Show and the Ringling Show. At Lawrence the canvas was filled to its utmost capacity, and the performance gave universal satisfaction. The continued success of the show has encouraged Mr. Burke to make several additions thereto, the most notable being several flat and a stock car, thereby doubling the hauling capacity. He has also added a number of cages of rare animals, as well as twenty head of horses, making nearly sixty in all. We now carry two fine bands and will undoubtedly have a continental band in the near future. At Lawrence, Theo. Marietto(?) received a telegram announcing the serious illness of his father at Chicago. He left for that city the same evening. The Welch Bros. - Frank and Jimmie - quit the show at Lawrence, going to Cleveland. Several new people will join us at Memphis in a few days. The advance brigade consists of D. F. Davis, general contractor; R. W. Peckham, agent, in charge of car; R. McDaniels, head billposter, with following assistants: J. W. Kelley, Geo. Slade, F.(?) Stone, Sam Hyatt(?), Geo. O'Neill . . . Robt. Semple, "Kid" Dwight, Toby Hopkins, Chas. Blakesley(?), Tom Reynolds, Ed. Hunter . . . Jno. Dickson, programmer, and Prof. Linton(?), stereopticon. We are prepared for a long campaign, and the boys are happy. Prof. Ed. Burke was visiting with the advance brigade during the past week. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Circus. Western Tennessee has proven a veritable gold mine for the T. K. Burk Circus. We have played six stands, and at each the canvas was crowded. At Jackson(?) we had strong opposition, worked up by an evangelist imitator of the Sam Jones(?) stripe, but a few well directed and discreet "ads" cooled the excitement and packed the canvas to the ring, both afternoon and night. At Union City, the home of John Lovelace(?), the capacity of the canvas was put to the test. John's friends gave him a perfect ovation. Early in the morning numbers of his former schoolmates and old time friends were waiting about the sleeper for him to make his appearance, and when he finally stepped from the car there was such a welcome and hearty shaking of hands as one seldom sees. John's horses worked perfectly, and won the highest praise of the audience. Theo. Marietta rejoined the show at Jackson, his father having so far recovered from his severe illness to admit of his leaving home. Charley Lovell is justly termed the human snake, as in is contortion act he squirms and twists himself into every conceivable shape. Inez Palmer, female Samson and iron jawed woman, is a strong card with the show, and her feats are received with rounds of applause. Gilmore and ___, trapezists . . . are great favorites with our audiences. Gus Fairbanks appreciates the patronage the Tennesseeans bestow upon the "kid" show. He is making additions thereto, having recently put in four cages of animals, and now has about the largest show of the kind on the road. At Jackson, several members of the Deiffenbach Show visited us. We exhibited at Nashville Oct. 16, to 19. D. F. Davis is piloting us through some fine show country nowadays, and we find he is immensely popular with hotel men and others along the route, all of whom appreciate his funny stories and genial nature. The Marletta(Marietta?) Bros. are the feature of the show, next to the horses. Their bar and brother acts are the msot loudly applauded of anything under the canvas. They are doing some marvelous feats, and are daily practicing new one, not being satisfied until they shall be recognized as "the best." The Savans(?) are doing a fine trapeze act, which is highly appreciated by the public. Our concert is one of the strongest ever given under a canvas. Tom Hunter, the old time clown, is doing a catchy one legged song and dance. Satro(?), fire king, bewilders the people with his wonderful feats, and James Dilks makes the audiences howl with delight and laughter at his musical moke novelties. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.
Mrs. Inez A. Ragland, professionally known as Miss Inez, iron jawed woman, is reported to have left her husband, Fred G. Adkins, a musician with T. K. Burk's Circus, at Nashville, Tenn. They had lived together scarcely two weeks. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 569.
On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Montgomery Ala. Nov 4, Troy 7, Ozark 11 . . . New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 589.
Birmingham, Alabama. T. K. Burk's Circus showed to a packed tent Oct. 28(?). New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 596.
T. K. Burk's Show has completed its seventh sucessive month, and business is still way up. Everybody with the show is well and contented, and the results of the Southern tour are very promising. New York Clipper, November 14, 1891, p. 609.
On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Augusta Ga. Dec 10, Savanah, 17. New York Clipper, December 12, 1891, p. 669.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Imperial Shows. We have just completed our thirty-sixth week, having shown in two hundred and three towns, nineteen states and traveling 10,500 miles, doing a good business. During this time the ever welcome White Spirit never failed to put in an appearance. Our people are all well, and the stock is in good shape. It is the intention of Mr. Burk to put a show on the road next season second to nine of our calibre. New York Clipper, December 19, 1891, p. 683.
On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Savannah, Ga. Dec. 16, 17. New York Clipper, December 19, 1891, p. 685.
• Information on the 1891 T. K. Burk show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 6, pp. 82-83.
1892:
On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Columbus, Ga. Jan 7. New York Clipper, January 2, 1891, p. 717.
Bert Gillmer is recovering from a broken ankle, received Dec. 3, at Newbury, S.C., while with the T. K. Burk Show. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 795.
W. G. Rollins has signed as bandmaster with T. K. Burk's Circus for the coming season. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 827.
Claude La Verne, clown and double somersault leaper, has signed with T. K. Burk's Shows. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
Notes for the T. K. Burk Shows. Work of all descriptions is being hurried forward at our winter quarters at Covington, Ky., where they open the middle of April. Among the people are Kokin's(?) troupe of Japanese, ten in number, and the Zolas, two ladies and one gentleman. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
Wichita Jack and wife, Adelaide Carlisle, have signed with T. K. Burk's Show. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
On the road, circuses: Burk's, Springfield OH April 28, Wheeling WV May _. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 119.
Wanted, performers in all branches, for circus and side show with T. K. Burke & Co.'s Shows. Answer Columbus, O., April 2? to May 1. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 127.
T. K. Burk's Shows opened the season at Covington, Ky., on April 21. Although the canvas went up in the rain, the weather cleared up early and the opening was very satisfactory. The immense canvas was literally packed and jammed, while hundreds of people were turned away. The show proved smooth and orderly, yet full of snap, ginger and originality. Prince Kokln's(?) Japanese troupe, the spectacle of "Cinderella," with a grand ballet; the Zolas, in a new flying act; Sig. Zano, wire artist; E. M. Burk's equine paradox; Inis Palmer, Martinetti Bros., La Verne, Marzet?e Bros., Wichita Jack and Morris and Menard attracted great attention, and are worthy of special mention, but the feature of the exhibition was by long odds the hippodrome. The immense new canvas gave the necessary space and room in which to speed the horses, and the races in consequence were extremely realistic and exciting. It is safe to say that any one who has seen this show in the past would not recognize it now. The stock has been increased to eighty-two head of horses. A menagerie of nine cages, two camels and a lama(?) have been added, and it now requires exactly fourteen cars to carry the show over the road. Everything about the show is either new or in first class order and bright with new paint, while the parade is strong in every sense of the word. The roster: T. K. Burk and T. J. Ford, sole owners; E. M. Burk, general manager; Ralph Peckham, general agent; De Forest Davis, general railroad agent; R. S. Boyd(?), contracting agent; E. E. Lawrence, press agent (advance); Geo. O. White, press agent (rear); Allen Rice, treasurer; Sig. Zana(?), equestrian director; Gus Fairbanks, side show director; Larry Moore, boss hostler; Dick Richards, boss canvas man; Sam Macavoy, chandelier man; John Keys, menagerie top; B. E.(F.?) Harris, concert director; W. G. Rollins, musical director; Dan Henessey, master of transportation; John Irwin, in charge of advance car No. 1, with twelve billposters, and Marcus Mason as lithographer, and Geo. Mason, programmer; J. F.(?) Kelly, in charge of advance car No. 2, with eight billposters. Prof. W. G. Rollins . . . Ferd Clymer, E. H. Emerson, Edgar Reed, Geo. Young, Harry Hungerford . . . Bert Woods, Geo. A. Beecher, P. H. Cassidy, E.(?) H. McElroy, Edgar Nutt, Leander Folsom(?), Prof. Geo. Rodgers . . . Ed. Poe, Ed. Mansfield, Hook Emerson . . . Chas. Hatfield . . . Prof. Emerson . . . Edgar Reed, Geo. Young . . . Ed. York, Geo. Beecher, Ferd Clymer . . . Johnny McFee, R. ?. Page, Ed Glasgow and Geo. Clements, musicians. Messrs. Harris, ___, Dikle, Deaane and Rogers, and . . . Mont Sisters . . . concert people. Gus Fairbanks, manager, Belle Telfair, Emma Bell, Mons. Leon, Allen Rice, Hart's(?) Illusions and Shaw's birds, sideshow attractions. A complete list of the people in the dressing room will be published just as soon as Sig. Zano succeeds in getting the names of the Japs spelled correctly, which, judging from the present progress, will be about a month hence. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
Circus people wanted to enlarge T. K. Burk Circus. Additional troupe of Japanese, feature acts of all descriptions. Trombone, baritone and B flat cornets for band. Address per route. Can use a few features for sideshow. Wheeling WV May _, Washington PA _, Pittsburg _. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 143.
The sensational report circulated by the Associated Press to the effect that Prince Kokin, of T. K. Burk's Shows, had been concerned in the abduction of a child, is absolutely false and altogether without foundation. Prince Kokin secured the consent of both parents, and the child joined the show with the knowledge and approval of all the officers of the Children's Home at Zanesville, O. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 146.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Shows. Business continues large. Barlow Bros. were visitors April 21(31?) at Newport, and W. H. Link saw the show at Hamilton. We are using special paper and all lithographed. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 146.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Shows. Business since the opening date has been immense, despite the fact that at many points the weather was bad. The Laclede Bros., double traps, and Kittie Laclede, vocalist, joined at Wheeling, W. Va., May _. Flohr and Adams, musicians, were additions to the band last week. De Forrest Davis, one of the railroad contractors, visited the show at Columbus, O., 2. E. M. Burk has gone ahead of the show. Prince Kokin has imported another little Jap for the Japanese troupe. Several new wagons were purchased for the show by the manager, while at Columbus. One of the Mazello Bros. fell from a balancing ladder, a distance of forty feet, during the performance at Zanesville, O., but escaped severe injury. Wilson Bott(Bolt?), a former attache of the show, was a visitor at Pittsburg, 9. The show this season is much stronger in every department than formerly. The Roman hippodrome races and spectacular "Cinderella," are new and novel features. To say that the ghost walks regularly is almost superfluous, as it never fails with the Burk Shows. The band of eighteen men, under Prof. Rollins, is an acknowledged winner. Considerable excitement was caused by the escape from the den of a large black bear(?), at Washington, Pa., but was ___ and caged by the leader before doing damage. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
The Zolas are no longer connected with T. K. Burk's Circus. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
Wheeling, West Virginia. On 7 F.(?) M. Zola swore out an attachment, claiming that Burke's Circus owed him two weeks' salary. . . . Constable Bennett levied on two horses and they were taken to a stable. An hour after Col. Arnett(?) arranged the matter. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 163.
The Three Martinnetti Bros. are with W. B. Reynolds' Circus, and not with T. K. Burk's Show, as has been announced. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
Wanted, five good billposters for the T. K. Burk Shows. Address R.(?) W. Peckham, Troy, N.Y. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 173.
During the evening performance of Burk's Circus at Reading, Pa., May __, a section of the reserved seats gave away, precipitating a number of people to the ground. A few persons were bruised, but nobody was seriously injured. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
On the road, circuses: Burk's, Newburg NY May 27. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
On the road, circuses: Burk's, Utica NY June 4(?), Syracuse _, Auburn 7, Rochester 8. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
Wanted, for the Burk & Forde Monster Show and Spectacle of "Cinderella," circus people in all branches that do two or more acts, also sensational acts. Long season. Address Burk & Forde, sole owners and proprietors, Utica, N.Y., June 3. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 208.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Circus. Notwithstanding inclement weather, our business is large. We have had opposition at seven stands thus far. The stock, under the veteran, Larry More, looks as fine as silk. A standing feature of the annex is the little horse, "Ethel," an importation from Chili. It is, without exception, the smallest horse in the world. New faces constantly added, and ossified people are "sent to the stables." Among the most notable recent engagements are Serpentello, Sig. Austin, wife and child wonder, W. C. Downs . . . The genial E. M. Burk was a pleasant visitor from the advance force May 30(?), accompanied by De Forrest Davis. Col. Ford has returned from New York with his head so full of new ideas that his hat only covers a small portion of the enlarged member. George Forsman, the well known showman, entertained the proprietors at Poughkeepsie . . . Mrs. Kokan sustained injuries in the races at Reading, but is again on deck. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
Serpentello, contortionist, has signed for the season with the T. K. Burk Show. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
The news from Burk's Circus is encouraging. Excellent business is remarked, and additions to the show are frequent. . . . Austin and family, Leander Folsom . . . are now faces within a fortnight. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
On the road, circuses: Burk's, Rochester NY June 8. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
Notes from the Burk Show. . . . Allen Reiss and Inez Palmer have closed. The "Human Ostrich" joined June 10, and is a great feature in the annex. Gus Fairbanks has given it out that he has got tired of counting money, and just shovels it up in bags. The Higbys are latest arrivals. More animals are expected in a day or two to complete the menagerie. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
Mme. Zilla, fortune teller, and her daughter, Pearl Higbee, flat race rider, have joined T. K. Burke's Circus. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
A new "Monarch" sleeping car has been added to the T. K. Burke Show. Excellent business through New England is reported. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 261.
On the road, circuses: Burke's, Bridgeport CT July 1, New London 2 . . . Providence RI 5, Pawtucket 6, Woonsocket 7, Worcester MA 8 . . . Newport R.I. 11, Fall River MA 12, Tauton 13, Lowell 14, Lawrence 15, Manchestor 16. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
Wanted, for T. K. Burk Shows, performers and musicians in all branches. Also ladies for the ___ March in the spectacular "Cinderella." Preference given those doing a turn in big show or concert. Address per route. T. K. Burk & Co. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 273.
Burk & Co.'s Winter circus and spectacular "Cinderella." A dazzling street parade, with half a hundred horses and ponies. 50 ladies in street parade and grand spectacular ballet. Military band and orchestra of 24 pieces. All requiring an entire train of cars for its transportation. The show will be billed like a canvas show, with special paper, every sheet of which will be lithographed except the dates, necessitating a full corps of billposters in their own special white and gold advertising car. We carry our own patent rubber ring, tableaux wagons, golden Cinderella Coach, racing chariots, band wagons, clown carts, etc. etc. The performance will be given by the leading artists of the profession, riders, leapers, aerialists, etc., etc.; a complete circus with an abundance of comedy. Moving by special train service, we will be enabled to give daily matinees. Managers desiring to book this attraction address care of Burk's Circus, as per route. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 273.
On the road, circuses: Burke's, Pawtucket RI July 6, Woonsocket 7, Worcester MA 8, South Framingham 9, Newport RI 11, Fall River MA 12, Taunton 13, Lowell 14, Lawrence 15, Manchester NH 16. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
Bridgeport, Connecticut. T. K. Burk's Circus and Menagerie July _ had fair attendance. July 4, Bob Hunting's Shows. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
Agent Davis of T. K. Burk's Show was in town last week, and on July _ was a Clipper visitor. He reports a continuously prosperous tour in New England, and a notable successful stand at Holyoke, Mass., Saturday night, June 2?, where the show gave two evening performances, the last concluded at eleven o'clock. At both shows the tents were crowded. All the people are well, and there have been no changes of note in the roster. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
The La Clede Bros. have closed their engagement with the Burk Show. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
On the road, circuses: Burk & Ford's, Taunton MA July 13, Lowell 14, Lawrence 15, Manchester NH 16, Nashua 18. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
___ had a narrow escape from death during the chariot races with Burk's Circus, at Lawrence, Mass., July 1?. The ladies' race had several started, and Miss Clamer drove a spirited horse, which slipped and threw her over its head. It appeared as if she would be trampled to death by the other horses. Miss Clamer's skirt caught the hoofs of one of the galloping steeds and she was dragged a distance of ten feet, when luckily her skirt was torn from her waist. Her sister, Hattie, drove the horse behind her, and was stunned by fright. The people and attendants looked on in horros and were surprised to see Miss Clamer arise, brush off the dirt and return to the dressing room without a scratch. Later she returned to the ring and did a song and dance. It was a miraculous escape. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
Lowell, Massachusetts. Harper Bros.' Circus came July 13 and T. K. Burk's Circus 14 both showing to big business. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 312.
Notes from T. K. Burk's Shows. We have about finished in New England, and our season in the Northeast has been the most successful we have ever had in that section. With two exceptions, we played to the capacity of the canvas in every stand. At Lawrence, Mass. one day after the Forepaugh Show, and on the same lot, we turned people away afternoon and evening. This business is all the more remarkable when it is known that we were the fifth and sixth show in every stand. Mr. Avery, manager of the Museum, Clincinnati, and Jas. Macks, Forepaugh's Farmer, were visitors July 14 and 15, and ___ Donaldson, the show printer, also paid us a very pleasant and extended visit. T. K. Burk left 23(?) to complete arrangements for the winter circus. Wm. Watson is making a hit in a new creation in the way of a German clown. Everybody is well, and continued prosperity rests easily on the management. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
On the road, circuses: Burk's, Jersey City, NJ July 27, Bergen Point 28, Stapleton S.I. 29, Port Richmond 30, Greenville NJ Aug 1, Hoboken 2. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
[Ad] Managers in and near New York who are in search of a feature see the Bicketts' aerial return act with Burk & Co.'s Show. . . . New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 338.
[Ad] Bicketts' aerial return act. Feature of T. K. Burk & Co. Show. Paterson, N.J., Aug 4, Newark 5, Orange 6. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 351.
While Burk's(?) Circus was being broken up Sunday, Aug. 7(?), prior to leaving Newark, N.J., where it had been showing for several days, some of the circus men threw a tramp out of a freight car. The crowd, which had been hanging around all night and growling with the tent men, championed the tramp's cause, and a free fight followed, during which clubs, stones, pieces of coal and pistols were used with freedom. News of the battle reached police headquarters, and a squad was sent to the place. They returned with three circus men - Henry Richards, of Cincinnati; James Lavender, of Chicago, and George Brown, of Philadelphia. The wagon also brought Edward Jewell, who had been clubbed about the head. He charged Brown with inflicting the injury, and the latter was held in $300(?) bail. Richards was discharged and Lavender fined $15. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 356.
Serpentello, the contortionist, is resting in this city, having two weeks ago closed his engagement with T. K. Burk's Circus at Manchester, N.H. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 356.
During the parade of Burk's Circus at New Brunswick, N.J., Aug. 8, a negro employe named John Lucas made a savage attack upon three little boys, biting(?) them severey. Lucas says the boys threw stones at him and that one of his teeth was knocked out. Lucas attempted to escape, but was captured and put in jail. Blood poisoning is feared in the case of one boy. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 356.
John Lucas, the Zulu, of Burke's Circus, who bit three boys and a girl during the street parade at New Brunswick, N.J., Aug. 8(?), is still in jail there, and will remain until he has had an interview with the Grand Jury on the subject of mayhem. An additional complaint was made against him by Mary Foley, a girl of twelve. She says he bit her seriously on the shoulders. John Hickey, who was bitten on the arm, suffered a good deal of pain. The Smith boy, bitten on the breast, also suffers considerably. The physicians have not yet decided to what extent there is danger of blood poisoning. Some colored people now allege that Lucas is a "blue gum" negro, and that his bit is therefore poisonous. An examination of the negro's gums shows that while they have a bludish cast, their predominant color is red. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 372.
Wanted, for a long season, by the T. K. Burk Shows, musicians and performers in all branches of the circus business. Address per route, T. K. Burk & Co. New York Clipper, August 27, 1892, p. 402.
Joe Lewis, of the Three Lewis Bros., acrobats, was a Clipper caller last week. The sickness of William Lewis causes his temporary retirement from work. Joe Lewis and his wife are with T. K. Burk's Show. New York Clipper, September 24, 1892, p. 456.
Wanted, riders and performers in all branches of the circus business. Show runs all winter South. Address T. K. Burk's Shows, Mansion House, Philadelphia, Pa. New York Clipper, October 8, 1892, p. 500.
Agent De Forrest Davis, having closed his season with T. K. Burk Show, is in this city [New York] for a few days, prior to returning to his Columbus, O. home. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Burk's Circus played Frankford, 15. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 526.
At the conclusion of the performance of the T. K. Burk Show, at Frankford, Pa., on Oct. 15, Jas. W. Gooderich(?), professionally known as Signor Zana, and Belle Clymer were quietly married. After the wedding an informal reception was attended by the friends of the new married couple, and all united in congratulations and good wishes. New York Clipper, November 5, 1892, p. 554.
1893:
T. K. Burk ___ of King, Burk & Co., died of consumption, Aug 24, at the residence of his sister, Mrs. John Miller at Peru, Ind. His remains were interred 26(?) at Paw Paw, a small village near Peru and the birthplace of Mr. Burke. He was forty years of age. New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 417.
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Burk's Shows - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908-1911
Burk's Combined Railroad Shows: C. E. Beyerle, proprietor; Fred R. Pilcher, manager; Harry Busenbark, general agent; C. E. Beyerle, R. R. contractor; Logan Venter, local contractor; Chas. P. Parker, special agent; R. R. Linwall, car manager; Frank Ray, John Liter, Asa Newcomb, J. B. Stout and Ed Bixler, billposters; Ralph Noble and Jesse Horton, lithographers and banner men; Bill Howard, program man; Ralph Everts, cook. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
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Burkett's - 1887
Wanted, for Burkett's New Railroad Shows, circus properties of all kinds, canvases, seats, poles, light, reserved seats and band wagon. Also people in all branches of the circus profession, acrobats, leapers, gymnasts, clowns, troup of performing dogs, musicians, concert people and agent. Sideshow and candy privileges for sale. Address Wm. F. Wright, late of Richard's Circus, Cincinnati, Wm. F. Wright, 101 Court street, Cincinnati, O. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, January 15, 1887, p. 700.
Charles Ellis, agent for Burkett's 10 cent circus is in town and has made arrangements for that circus to appear in this city for three days, June 2d, 3d and 4th. Hamilton Daily Democrat (Hamilton, OH), June 1, 1887, n.p.n.
The A. Burkett Ten Cent Circus is in dire straits at Xenia, O., at present. By the merest scratch the company managed to reach that city from Dayton, having a carload of stuff in their possession, but minus the brass band. As soon as the tent was up one of the actors levied on the property for $114 wages due. The management of the circus was placed in the hands of the Constables, who have been running the exhibitions in the past three evenings, realizing enough money to pay off some of the claims. Yesterday new claims came in and the show went to pieces. Hamilton Daily Democrat (Hamilton, OH), June 25, 1887, n.p.n.
The show tent and other circus fixtures of the late Burkett's great ten cent show, which went under here this summer, was sold by the constable at the rink yesterday afternoon, Mr. Henry Holland being the purchaser for $150. It is supposed that Wilberforce College will have the tent for its annual commencements. Daily Gazette (Xenia, OH), August 26, 1887, n.p.n.
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Burlingame Bros. Circus - 1923 later Burling Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1923-1924
A new wagon show is to take the road next season under the title of Burlingame Bros.' Circus, owned and managed by J. A. and E. C. Burlingame, consisting of eight wagons. The performance will be given under a 60 by 90 top. The dressing room top will be a 20 by 30. The show will carry about twenty head of draft stock. The performance will be maily aerial and ground acts, with a six piece band. Advance work will be done by auto. Winter quarters have been established at New Martinsville, W. Va. The above data is according to the Burlingame Brothers. Billboard, November 18, 1922, p. 75.
Burling Bros. - 1952, 1957
1952: Burling Brothers Circus. Wonderland Museum, Menagerie, acres of waterproof and flameproof canvas tents. Trained wild and domestic animals. Over a score of horses, ponies, tiny mules and American buffalo. Featuring Captain Henry's Military Ponies, the Hart Family, the La Belle Ray Troupe, the Great Ray in hand balancing, Freddie Von Derheid, European sensation on the flying trapeze, the Great Marvello giant cloud swing, four clowns, headed by Louisiana Zack Hale. July 12, New Oxford, Pa. [Advertisement] New Oxford Item (New Oxford, PA), July 10, 1952, p. 4.
1957: New Martinsville, June 22. One of the nation's 12 remaining circuses leaves winter quarters here tomorrow to open its season at Lowell, Ohio, Monday. West Virginia's only circus, Burling Brothers, will travel by about 25 vehicles on its performance tour of Ohio, Pennsylvania and Maryland. The circus will not appear here. Burling Brothers will carry its own big top, side shows and concessions, complete with traditional barkers. John A. and E. C. Burlingame started the circus organization in 1923 under its present name. In 1926 and 1927 th ecircus operated under the name of the Great Keystone Show. The show was not on the road last year because of ill health in its ranks. The big top, which has two performing rings, will seat nearly 1,000 spectators, while about 50 performers travel with the show. The Silverlake family, a group of nine high wire and trapeze performers, has appeared with many of the largest circuses, including the combined shows of Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey. E. C. Burlingame, now sole owner of the circus, said that costs of operation have doubled in the past 10 years. But Burlingame has increased the size of his circus this year and is looking forward to a successful season. Charleston Gazette June 23, 1957, p. 3.
Online at Find A Grave: Funeral services were held Friday at 2 p.m. for John Anson Burlingame, 75, of 203 North St., New Martinsville, who died Tuesday December 16 [1975] in Wetzel County Hospital. Mr. Burlingame toured the country for a number of years with the Burlingame Brothers Circus and later operated Burlingame Building Supply along with his brother, Eseck. He built and operated the Burlingame Motor Lodge for three years and was a member of St. John's United Methodist Church. Rev. Dewayne Lowther officiated at the services with interment following in Northview Cemetery.
Online, West Virginia Division of Culture and History: Eseck Clifford Burlingame, died June 10, 1969, at New Martinsville, Wetzel Co., West Virginia, age 70.
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F. W. Burns & Co.'s Circus - 1903-05 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1901-05
1905: F. W. Burns & Co.'s Big R. R. Show and Trained Animal Exhibition opened its eighth season May 6 at Antigo, Wis., to good business. Roster: F. W. Burns & Co., proprietors; Sam Burns, treasurer; Ed Childers, equestrian director, and Phil Mead, advance agent with five assistants. The performers are the Four Marvelous Lorenas, acrobatic and casting act; Robbins and Childerns, double trapeze an comedy ladder act; the Skerbeck Sisters, pedestal contortion act; Mlle. Labelle, principal riding act; Louie Kohl, jockey and hurdle rider; Harry Helms, tramp juggler; Kohl Brothers, horizonal bar and ladder act; Prof. Burns, troupe of educated horses, mules and ponies, including the trained horse, Logan; Prof. Bushey with his trained dogs, wolves and wild cats; Harry Bussey, club juggler and wire act; John Kohl, Dutch clown, and Ed Childers, Yankee clown. Prof. Ed Culver has charge of the band of twenty pieces, Harry Helms has charge of the sideshow. The show will travel through the iron and copper belt of Wisconsin and Michigan. Prices of admission are 15 and 25 cents. Billboard, May 27, 1905, p. 19.
See White Tops, May-Jun, 1955, pp. 10, 12; Jul-Aug, 1955, p. 28. All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Burt & Robinson - 1858 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1858
Burt & Robinson's Old Fashioned Circus was owned by A. S. Burt and "Yankee" Robinson. Performers: Walter Aymar, principal rider; Chas. Brown, Chas. Davis (Mexican Charley), Harry Everts, Tom Shields, Johnny Booker, W. Sparks, general performers; "Buck" Gardner, Johnny Booker, Harry Everts, clowns; Mrs. Johnny Booker and Mrs. Geo. Choate, entry riders. Frank Drew started out as first clown, but as the routes were long and he had not been used to getting up in the early morning, he concluded that he was not suited to the business and quit the second week out. The company started out from Ham Shephard's farm, near Strawton, Indiana, April 15, 1858, giving its first performance at Noblesville. Bandwagon, December 15, 1945, Vol. 4, No. 6, p. 13.
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Burton & Taylor's - 1874, 1877 (Australia)
1874: Burton & Taylor's Circus was at last accounts prospering among the gold fields of Australia, in which country Burton has been connected with the business about twenty-two years. New York Clipper, February 21, 1874, p. 371.
1877: Melbourne, Australia, Jan. 7, 1877. Burton & Taylor's United States Circus, a national concern, is taking the small towns with only moderate success, they ship shortly to Tasmania. New York Clipper, February 24, 1887, p. 383.
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Burton's Dog Circus - 1887 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1897
Granite Fall, Sept. 13. Wilson's All Star Minstrels and Prof. James H. Burton's $10,000 Dog Circus. Street parade daily. [Advertisement] Daily Kennebec Journal (Kennebec, ME), September 7, 1887, n.p.n. All information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Busby Bros., circa 1903, photo courtesy of Conover collection.
Note advertising paper, May 22 was on a Friday in 1903.
Busby Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1902-1904
J. M. Busby, Earl Busby, Burl Busby, owners. Billboard, September 27, 1902, p. 6.
1905: Burrell Busby [Burl], of the firm of Busby Bros. circus man, has abandoned the show business and rented a farm near Rosemond says a Pana paper. Mr. Busby has rented the Durant farm and will devote his time in future to agricultural pursuits. James Busby, of the firm of Busby Bros., will butt into show business again this year and will take out a car show of "Ten Nights in a Bar Room." Decatur Review (Decatur, IL), March 6, 1905, p. 5.
• More information on the Busby Bros. show, 1902-1904, is online in Billboard, 1901-03 - use find.
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J. M. Busby's - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1911
J. M. Busby's Show. J. M. Busby, prop.; Herald Dane, gen. agt.; Ben Lodge, local contractor; Bill Haney, special agt.; Audley Anderson, checker-up; Leo Frost, excursion agt.; C. W. McHenry, mgr. sideshow. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1922: J. M. Busby, now retired from the show world, was not only owner of Busby Bros. Circus, but later prominent with his Busby Minstrels for a number of years. Billboard, December 30, 1922, p. 87.
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Butcher & Oram - 1891
Wanted, for Butcher & Oram's Congress of European Stars and Pavilion Show, people in all branches of circus biz, except riders, a live working advance agent, a good clown who can sing and tumble, must be funny. Show starts May 10(?) by wagon. Also leader and others for orchestra. Address Prof. Butch, ___ Furnace Street, Akron, O. New York Clipper, March 21, 1891, p. 32.
Pat Young, trapeze and slack wire performer, joins Butcher & Oram's Show May 10. The above will travel by wagon. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 76.
Roster of the advance of Butcher, Oram & Co.’s Congress of European Stars: Tully Strayer, contracting agent; Lue Ellsner, chief billposter; Chas. Whiting, William Sylvas and Robert Murry, assistants. The advance took the road May 4, and the show opens 16. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891.
St. Arno, slack wire performer, has signed with Butcher & Oram's Circus. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
Butcher, Oram & Co.'s Congress of European Stars and Pavilion Show opens at Mecca, O., May 9(?), traveling by wagon. The roster: Prof. Butcher, manager; B. Millikan, treasurer; Wm. Maro, master of canvas; Thos. Wills, boss hostler; W. Wolcott, leader of band and orchestra; Tully Strayer, advance agent; Molly Welch, Susan Stevens, Ida Willis, Maud Wilson, Agnes Lewis, Frankie Trimble, Hattie Sadler, Jennie Jarman, Ida ___, James Stitt, Pat Young, Wm. St. Arno, C. Merritt(Merrill?), J. B. Morris, Ed. O. Werner, Master F. Butcher, J. J. Williams and Bro., Lew Seeker(?), Lew Sayers, Pat Welch and Bob ___. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
Tully Strayer, late advance representative for Tony Lavely's New Floating Theatrium, has signed as general agent for Butcher & Oram's Congress of European Stars and Pavilion Shows. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 117.
Horner and O'Toole have signed with Butcher, Oram & Co.'s Show for the tenting season of 1891. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 135.
M?llin & Oram's Shows opened at Mecca, O., May 16. Following is the list of performers: St. Arno, Harry Pink(?), . . . Homer and O'Toole, Capt. Jones, Three Racine Bros., the Misses Kersand(?), . . . Sisters De Love, Frank Vincent, James Bartell, Myrtle Stewart, Mrs. Harry Pink, Ed. O. Werner, and Prof. Goff's(?) band of nine pieces. Tully Strayer is advance agent; Harry Pink, equestrian director; Hank Adams, boss canvasman, with five assistants. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 215.
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Butler Bros.' - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909
Butler Bros.' Amusement Co.: Butler Bros., proprietors; B. B. Butler, manager; H. W. Collins, general agent; Harry Van Houton, treasurer; Thos. Glassco, supt. of shows. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
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