Circuses - Brief Bits

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Ed. C. Abby's New Columbian - 1893-94

    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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Frank Adams' Circus, 1895, 1897-98

    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.
    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.
    1897: "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.
    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.

Note: Frank Adams' Show listed 1897-1909 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses.

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Charles L. Alderfer Circus - 1913, 1915-16

    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.

    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.

    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.

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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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.
    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.

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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.
    On the road, circuses: Geo. W. Allen's, Franklin PA May 19. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.

    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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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.

Capt. W. D. Ament's - 1891-1907

    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.
    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: 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.
    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: 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.
    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.

    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.
    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: 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.
    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: Cedar Rapids Carnival . . . The Midway . . . Capt. Ament's Vaudeville and Ghost Show . . . Cedar Rapids Republican (Cedar Rapids, IA), September 21, 1902.
    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.

    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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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. 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.

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

Bud E. Anderson Circus - 1941

      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. 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.

Charles Andress' - 1889, 1890

    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.
    1889: 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.
    1889: 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.
    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.

    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: On the Road, Circuses: Sells and Andress', Central City, Neb., June 12, Ord, 13. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: . . .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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: Chas. Andress' Gift Show will take the road this month. New York Clipper, October 11, 1890, 487.
    1890: 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.

    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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Ann Arbor Light Infantry's Midwinter Circus - 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.

Arthur Bros. Circus - 1943-1945

1943: "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: "Betty Dean, girl rider with Arthur Bros." Ogden Standard-Examiner (Ogden, UT), August 3, 1944, p. 3.
    "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.
    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.
    "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.
    "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." 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.
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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.

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

    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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Atterbury Bros. Circus - 1916-17, 1921, 1923, 1935

    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.
    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.
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Antonio Brothers - 1860

    [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. 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.
    . . . 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.

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B

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.
    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 maner. 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.

Note: see Bailey & Winans, below. See Cleveland Consolidated (Ewing).

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C. F. Bailey & Co. - 1870

      C. F. Bailey & Co.'s Famous Menagerie. 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. 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.

Mollie Bailey's Circus - 1892, 1900

    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.

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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.
    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.

Note: see Bailey's London, above.

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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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Barlow's Refined Wagon Show - 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. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Barnes & Daily Famous Circus - 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.

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.

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.

Note: also see W. L. Cole's, Sieber & Cole.

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Bartholomew’s Circus - 1891-92

    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.
    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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.

    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.

Note: In an 1893 advertisement, Bartholomew's Equine Paradox was advertising for a band. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 340. Also see Dan Bartholomew and George Bartholomew entries in Slout s Olympians on this website.

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Charles Bartine's Circuses - 1889-1893, 1902

    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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: Fred Aymar will join the Bartine Circus next season. New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 805.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: Duluth, Minnesota. Frank Gay goes with Chas. Bartine's Circus. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 67.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: Frank La Verr is now the general agent of the Chas. Bartine Show, replacing Chas. Forbes. New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 198.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: Whiting and Geyer have signed with Bartine's Show for the season of 1891. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: . . . 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, Bowling Green, O. June 10, Pemberville, 11 . . . New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: The Three Rexford Bros. have joined Bartine's Circus. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 268.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, West Salem, O. June 2?, Polk 26, Ashland 27. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
    1891: Wanted, good funny knockabout talking clown. Wire per route Chas. Bartine's Circus. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 277.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Bartine's, Frederickton, O. July 9, Danville 10, Gann 11, Millersburg 13. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
    1891: 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.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's . . . Doyleston, O. 21 . . . Cuyahoga Falls 23, Kent 24 . . . New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 313.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: Billy Geyer has signed with Chas. Bartine's Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18. 1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Chas. Bartine's, Ravenna, OH July 9, Alliance 11, Salem 12. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
    1892: 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.
    1892: Akron, Ohio. Charles Bartine's Circus July 4, 5, 6, had a successful run. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 297.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Bartine's, Georgetown OH Sep 7, Bethel 8, Batavia 9. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 427.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: ___ 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).
    1898: 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.

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Beach & Bowers - 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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A. A. Beckett's Hippodrome Circus

    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.

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, Slents & 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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Belmont Elite - 1889, 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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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, 595.

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Bentley’s Old Fashioned Circus - 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. 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

    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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J. C. Betts' Excelsior Pavilion Show

    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. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Bingley & Stevens - 1890

    The Bingley & Stevens Show was placed in the hands of a receiver at Atlanta, Ga. . . . New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 23.

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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Black Bros. - 1886-1888

    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: 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.
    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.
      1887: 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. The will commence preparations for the next season's tour of Black Bros. circus of which they are proprietors. Olean (NY) Democrat, February 2, 1888.
    1888: 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.

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 hardward 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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Blitz & Long - 1890

    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 - 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.

Bockus & Kilonis - 1936

      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.

Bonheur Bros. - 1892-94, 1896, 1904

    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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: . . . 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: [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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1893: 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.
    1894: 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.
    1894: 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.
    1894: 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.
    1894: 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.
    1894: 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.
    1894: 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.
    1894: 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.

    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.

Note: For more information on this show see Troupers of the Golden Mascot, by Louis Wood, 1904.

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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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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.

Boyd & Peters 1879-1881

      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.

      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.

      Mr. S. C. Peters left here Monday for Minnesota. He has obtained an excellent situation as cashier in J. A. Bowerman's bank at Detroit, Minnesota. His wife will join him in a very short time. Pontiac Press (Pontiac, MI), June 8, 1881.

    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.

    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. 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. 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 & Co.'s - 1890-91, 1894

    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.
    1890: Miscellaneous: Bristol's Equines, Gadsden, Ala. Jan. 9(?) . . . New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 725.
    1890: 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.
    1890: On the Road, Circuses: Bristol & Co.'s. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210; June 21, 1890, p. 210.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1894: 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.

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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

    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

    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.

Buckskin Bill's Wild West - 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.

    Sid. Terrell, of the Buckshin Bill Wild West, paid a flying visit to Cincinnati June 13. He was accompanied by his general agent, Dan R. Robinson.
    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. 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.

    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. 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.

Buller's Dog & Pony Show - 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. 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.

T. K. Burk's - 1889, 1890-92

    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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1890: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: The Gillmore Bros., aerialists, have signed with T. K. Burk's Circus. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Keokuk, Ia. May 27. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: Wanted, sensational female acts, and riders with stock. Address T. K. Burke [sic] Show, Mankato, Minn. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 324.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: 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.
    1891: On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Montgomery Ala. Nov 4, Troy 7, Ozark 11 . . . New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 589.
    1891: Birmingham, Alabama. T. K. Burk's Circus showed to a packed tent Oct. 28(?). New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 596.
    1891: 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.
    1891: On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Augusta Ga. Dec 10, Savanah, 17. New York Clipper, December 12, 1891, p. 669.
    1891: 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.
    1891: On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Savannah, Ga. Dec. 16, 17. New York Clipper, December 19, 1891, p. 685.

    1892: On the road, circuses: T. K. Burk's, Columbus, Ga. Jan 7. New York Clipper, January 2, 1891, p. 717.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: Claude La Verne, clown and double somersault leaper, has signed with T. K. Burk's Shows. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
    1892: 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.
    1892: Wichita Jack and wife, Adelaide Carlisle, have signed with T. K. Burk's Show. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Burk's, Springfield OH April 28, Wheeling WV May _. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 119.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: The Zolas are no longer connected with T. K. Burk's Circus. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Burk's, Newburg NY May 27. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Burk's, Utica NY June 4(?), Syracuse _, Auburn 7, Rochester 8. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: Serpentello, contortionist, has signed for the season with the T. K. Burk Show. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
    1892: 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.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Burk's, Rochester NY June 8. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: The La Clede Bros. have closed their engagement with the Burk Show. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
    1892: 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.
    1892: ___ 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: [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.
    1892: [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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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. 356.1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: 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.
    1892: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Burk's Circus played Frankford, 15. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 526.
    1892: 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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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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