Circuses - Brief Bits

I

Ideal Circus - 1893

    Wanted, tent 80 to 100 ft. top, with middle piece, seats, poles, ropes, etc., also dressing tent; circus and concert acts of all kinds, boss canvas man. Ideal Circus, Metropolis, Ill. New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 762. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Imperial Circus - 1894

    Roster of Imperial Circus and Pantomime Co. . . . Robert Stickney . . . Wm. Showles, Wm. Lowanda, Wm. Marks . . . Harry Delmain(?), John Showles, Fred Stickney . . . Josie Marks . . . Ten head of stock, performing ponies and dogs. New York Clipper, February 10, 1894, p. 787. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Irvin & Sons' - 1894

    Notes from the Great American Rail Road Show. Irvin & Son, proprietors of the show, are making great preparations for the coming season. They are having a new 100ft. round tip, with two 40(?)ft. middle pieces, manufactured. They will also carry a ___ tent for their side show. Eight wagons, including a band wagon, are in course of construction, which will be conveyed over the country by a train consisting of six cars and a sleeper. Everything connected with this show will be new and strictly first class in every way. Their opening show will occur in Indianapolis, Ind., May 1. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
    Roster and notes from the Great American Railroad Shows. Irvin & Son, proprietors and managers; Wm. Marshell(?), railroad contractor; Frank Krvin, superintendent of stock, with five assistants; Harry St. Clair, boss canvas man, with ten assistants; Phil Coupe, in charge of sideshow, with a large staff; Ed. Long(?), equestrian director, with troupe of trained dogs; Will Brandon, singing and talking clown; the Merdiths . . . The show will open in May at Indianapolis, Ind. Everything is on a hustle at headquarters. The wagons and cars are getting their finished touches. The roster is not yet complete, but will be made up of the best people. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
    Wanted, for Irvin & Son's Great American Railroad Shows, people in all branches of circus business. Bar team who can do brother act, Punch and Judy man who can do magic, band of ten or twelve pieces, chandelier man, canvas men, 4, 6, and 8 horse drivers. Candy stand privilege for sale. Address Irvin & Son, ___ W. Washington Street, Indianapolis, Ind. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 844.
    Call. All people engaged for Irvin & Son's Great American Railroad Show report at Indianapolis, April 28(?), 1894. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 92.
    Notes from Irvin & Sons' Great American Railroad Shows. Everything is now complete, having just received the canvases, including a 100ft. top with two ??ft. middle pieces, a side show top 60 by 110 ft. and eight new tableau wagons. Our new cars consist of a sleeper, privilege, two stock and two flats. The performers: Brandan and Regina, . . . Robbins Bros., Jack and Lotta Wolf, F. S. Putnam and wife, Billy Brandon, Alford Nevada(?), Albert Howe, Ed. C. Long, Prof. S. E. Moore, musical director, with twelve pieces: C. T. Kromer, H. A. Ward, C. Thornton, . . . Chas. L. Stout, . . . W. Kinghorn, J. T. Laycox, Bud Carman and Geo. Rife. The side show will consist of Major Phil Coup, the veteran superintendent, with an efficient staff of assistants. Prof. Le Carlo's band of seven pieces and a large orchestrion will furnish music. Prof. M. R.(?) Silver will do magic and punch, . . . black art; Mme. De Coupe will handle the serpents, alligators and school of trained doves. The feature will be the canni??? man, having large food bags or pockets, reaching from the chin almost to the waist capable of ??ding food for three or four days' supply. Among the features will be a woolly man from the interior of Japan, cat faced and dog faced babies, horned woman and Indian maiden with her Indian musical instruments, performing conger or Indian devil, elephant, sea monster, sea horse, and a petrified child. Hank Wise Jr. master of canvas, with five assistants; B. W. Marshall, general advance and contracting agent; Henry W. Bothwell, in charge of car No. 1, with six assistants; Jasper Will???, in charge of skirmish brigade, with four assistants; F. M. Browne, lithographer and programmer, with two assistants; boss canvas man, Harry Sinclair; assistant, Chas. Grothe, with twenty men; Lawrence Marshall, chandelier man; Bill Browning, boss hostler, with ten assistants; John Kay???, master of transportation, with five assistants; W. C. Ripley, ticket agent and treasurer; John L. Henry, steward. . . New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 85.
    Roster of Irvin & Son's Big Twenty-Five Cent Wagon Show. Irvin & Sons, proprietors; Frank Irvin, treasurer; E. C. Long, manager. We have sixteen wagons, and carry forty-six head of stock. Albert Howe, principal leaper; Joe Wolfe, principal bar performer; Geo. Cannon, talking clown; Arthur Howard, knockabout clown; The Three Beltens(?), in a brother and ladder act; the Put??ms, Frank and Lottie, sketch team; Professor Baroker's band of solo musicians is the feature of the show. We are playing to good business, and are billed for the Northwest. Dick Beemer, general contracting agent; John Rhodes, advertising agent; Chas. Hohn(?), in charge of paper, with six assistants; Fred Ball, lithographer and programmer. The show opened five weeks ago, and has been a winner. New York Clipper, June 23, 1894, p. 245.

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

Irwin Bros. - 1889, 1890-95

    1889: Fred Irwin, the young and energetic circus manager, has, for the coming season, put together an excellent company. Among those lately signed are Stirk and Zeno, late of Barnum’s Show, and the Three Herbert Bros. Equestrian Director Shedman has been at Buffalo, N.Y. for some time past, working on some new stock, and getting it ready for the opening. In the collection he will handle this season are five ponies, one donkey, eight monkeys, a gorilla, an ant eater and fourteen dogs. He will also take charge of the dressing room, which position he filled very satisfactorily last season with this show. “Red” Jenkins is at the east end quarters, with his staff, very busily engaged in painting, and getting everything ready for the opening May 2. Mac Feiley, boss hostler, is also hard at work on the decorations, etc. Ed. Cullen (advance representative), Frank Beck, Fritzy Paul, Billy Sherer and the twin “Chandys” are at the Buffalo Winter quarters, waiting for the white tents to be pitched. [1889 admission 10 and 20 cents] New York Clipper, May 4, 1889.
    Wanted, for Irwin Bros.' Circus, (leased) for long season, female riders (must have their own stock), acrobats, gymnasts, aerial artists, musicians, concert people. Those signing for winter season will have first privilege of following Summer season. John Winter, lessee and manager. Season 1887-8-9, business manager Irwin's Circus. Season 1888-9, business manager Irwin's Specialty Co. New York Clipper, October 5, 1889, p. 507.
    1889: Denny Stirk, of Stirk and Zeno, left Irwin Bros.’ Show at Boston, Mass., and reports business good with that circus. He and Mr. Zeno join the Barnum Show at Utica, N. Y., for a year’s engagement. New York Clipper, August 3, 1889, p. 340.

    1890: Wanted, five or six good novelty acts, for return dates in the East. . . . Fred Irwin, manager, Irwin Bros.' Big Specialty Show, address all letters to John Winter, general business manager, Irwin Bros.' Attractions, as per route. Jan. 20(?) Lyceum, Chicago; ___ Detroit; Feb. 3(?), Grand, Rochester. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 753.
    1890: On the Road, Miscellaneous: Irwin Bros., Detroit, Mich. Jan. 27(?)-Feb. 1, Rochester NY 3-8. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 772.
    1890: Rogers Bros. have signed with Irwin Bros.' Circus for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 861.
    1890: 4th season, under the white tents, 1890, Irwin Bros.' Big R. R. Circus, Fred Irwin, manager. Wanted female riders (must have own stock), all kinds of aerial acts, first class brother act, good novelty acts for stage, good talking clown. All must leap and tumble. . . . Also want a good hustling agent, one that has had experience in contracting. Must be able to write up paper, and must know country thoroughly. Good leader, that can furnish first class band for circus business. . . . Address Jno. Winter, general business manager Irwin Bros.' Attractions, permanent address care of Clipper. Route: March 10, Miner's Eighth Avenue, New York; 17(?) Hyde & Behmans'(?), Brooklyn, 24; Kernan's, Washington, D. C., 31; Monumental, Baltimore, Md., April _; Williams', Pittsburg, Pa., 13(?); People's, Cincinnati, O. - 3d Season, 1890-91, Irwin Bros. Big Specialty Show. Wanted good, strong specialties, must be comedy acts and full of ginger. - 1st season, 1890-91, Irwin Bros.' Spectacular Burlesque Co. . . . New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 865.
    1890: John and Nellie McCarthy were last week ___ at Tony Pastor's Theatre, this city, but were allowed to cancel on account of being with Irwin Bros.' Show. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 7.
    1890: Sankey Bros., contortion act, at Hyde & Behman's with Irwin Bros. Show. New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 29.
    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: For sale, in good order, __ft. round top, two __ft. dressing room tops, one ___ sideshow top, one horse tent, one cook tent. Will sell cheap. Address Jno. Winter, bus. manager, Fred Irwin, manager Irwin Bros. Circus, Trenton, N. J. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 80.
    1890: The Powers Family join the Forepaugh Circus for one week, and then to go Irwin Bros.' Circus for the summer. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 91.
    1890: Roster of the advance brigades of Irwin Bros.' Shows: J. ?. Tucker, general agent; A. J. French, contracting agent . . . Harry Powell, chief lithographer, with two assistants . . . New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
    1890: Irwin Bros.' Allied Shows open the season at Buffalo, N. Y., May 20(?). The show will travel by boat(?), everything being new. The people: Alex Wilson . . . H. Higgins . . . James J. Morton and wife; Mme. Irwin . . . and Prof. Woodward's band of ten men. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
    1890: Wanted, good double somersault leapers, male and female riders with their own stock. Good talking and knockabout clown; also few more good aerial acts. Fred Irwin, manager. Jno. Winter, business manager Irwin Bros.' Circus, American House, Trenton, N. J. Show opens April 28. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 111.
    1890: Notes from the Irwin Bros. Show: The show is new throughout, and more strongly made up than ever. . . . Our train consists of four first class cars and one stock and special Pullman sleeping care are also of the best. Everything is as bright and comfortable as can be, and businees has been large. The roster is as follows: Fred Irwin, proprietor; John Winters, treasurer; J. R. Tucker, advance with ten assistants; Jake Irwin, master of transportation; Pat Jenkins, superintendent; Will Melville(?), equestrian director . . . Three Melville Bros. . . . Geo. M. Jackson . . . Elmer and Gregory; Fritz Paul . . . the Lorella Bros. [Loretta?] . . . Mme. Stickney and her trained dogs, monkeys and ponies . . . Pat Morgan . . . and the following in the concert roster: Gordon and Lick . . . Riley and Wolfe; Madden(?) and Clark. The sideshow contingent is: John McBride; Harry Mack, with the three Leopard children . . . and Mrs. J. H. Lewis, Circassian, and with her two Albino children. . . . Henry Norton is boss hostler, with six assistatns, and has twenty-two head of stock . . . Geo. Irwin is master of privileges . . . New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 183.
    1890: People with Irwin Bros. Big Show(s), Harry Larose, Joe Larose, trick tumblers; 3 Melvelles, acrobats; W. E. Murdell, aerial acts, aerial novelty hoop a patent apparatus; Geo. M Jackson, "American Dude," fancy trick burlesque and ___ skater, general knockabout clown and novelty trick leaper; George Wilton, triple horizontal bar; Mignani Family, musical; John J. Powers, double drummer and xylophone player; Rosaline Stickney, lady dog trainer, dogs that do an aerial act, three somersault dogs; Geo. Gregory and Fred Elmer, triple horizontal bar; Chas. Clark, splash leaper; Loretta Bros., Otis and Chas., aerialsts and gymansts; Joseph Madden, Irish comedian; Blubbenheimer Quartet, singers; Pauline Carre, equestrienne; Stanton, juggling; Otis Loretta, double somersault leaper; Sankey Bros., contortionists; Gordon and Lick; Geo. Gregory, double somersault leaper; Joe Larose, double somersault leaper and clown; Fritz Paul, double somersault leaper and swinging perch. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 240.
    1890: Notes from the Irwin Bros.' Show. New England has turned out extremely well, so far, and the show has given the best of satisfaction everywhere. The people are in excellent health and well satisfied with their season thus far. Our list of performers includes: Marry and Joe La Rose(?); the Three Melvelles(?); W. E. Murdell; Geo. M.(?) Jackson . . . John J. Powers; Rosaline Stickney; Gregory and Elmer; Chas. Clark; Fred Scarlet; Otis and Chas. Loretta; Joseph Madden; Mlle. Pauline Carre; Stanton; Gordon and Lick; the Sankey Bros.; Fritz Paul . . . and others. New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 243.
    1890: J. R. Tucker, general agent of Irwin Bros.' Show was a caller June 27(?). He reports good business. New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 261.
    1890: Good business prevails in Jersey with the Main & Van Amburgh Shows. . . . We have had several professional visits of late, viz., John Winters, of the Irwin Show . . . New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 262.
    1890: Ralph A. Ward has joined the advance brigade of Irwin bros.' Circus for the summer. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
    1890: . . . Manager Irwin has added several new wagons and flat cars to his show and splendid business is reported. Joseph Madden and John F. Leonard have joined hands and are doing an excellent Irish turn in the concert. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 294.
    1890: At liberty for season of 1890-91, Sankey Bros., posturing contortion act. Address . . . Irwin Bros. Circus, as per route. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 303.
    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: John E. Lewis closed his summer season, in charge of the paper with the No. 1 advance brigade of the Irwin Bros.' Circus, Aug. 1?, at Troy, N. Y., and resumed the position filled by him for the past ten season in advance of the Chas. L. Davis Co. Ralph ?. Ward succeeded him in charge of the paper with the Irvin Bros.' show. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 387.
    1890: At liberty about Oct. 1, J. R. Tucker, agent now in advance of Irwin Bros. Circus. . . . Address Box __, Canton, Bradford Co., Pa. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 399.
    1890: W. E. Murdell, formerly of the Murdells, single aerial novelty. had been with Irwin Bros. the past summer. New York Clipper, September 6, 1890, p. 416.
    1890: J. R. Tucker has closed with the Irwin Bros. Circus and joined Washburn & Arlington's Shows as contracting agent. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 468.
    1890: To managers: I wish it understood that the name, the Irwin Bros.' Show, may lead to confusion, as the original Irwin Brothers have split, and ther are no such brothers. I and my wife work alone, I doing swing head balancing and my wife doing iron jaw business - two distinct acts - and my brother Jim works with his wife, playing dates. We have had no connection with this show for over a year and a half, so managers booking the said show and expecting to see our head balacing acts will be disappointed. I write this in justice to my friends, who go to the show expecting to see myself and brother. Yours truly, Wm. Irwin, care of Post Office, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, December 20, 1890, p. 654.

    1891: Wanted, for Irwin Bros.' Big Show, Fred Irwin, Manager. 4 good talking and knockabout clowns, 10 female aerial acts, 1 good boss canvasman, 4 good seat men (will pay good salary), 15 four, six and eight horse drivers, 1 good boss property man (one that understands handling big aerial acts). Address Fred Irwin, manager, week March 9, Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D. C.; March 16, Kernan's Theatre, Baltimore. After that care of Clipper. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 830.
    1891: Call. All people engaged for Irwin Bros.' Big Show report at Yonkers, N. Y., on Monday, April __. Show opens April 27(?). Post Office, Yonkers, N. Y. Fred Irwin. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 107.
    1891: Notes from the Irwin Bros. Circus. At Sing Sing, N. Y., May ?, about two o'clock A. M., fire was discovered in our stock car, which was ??? to the trucks. We had jsut finished loading when the fire was discovered, and on account of the doors not being closed, it made quick headway. Inside of six minutes it had destroyed the entire car with the contents. One end was used for our working people, and the other end for ponies and donkeys. Prof. John White lost two donkeys, one Shetland pony, and one broncho and his trained stallion. . . . Lew Sunlin lost his trick donkey, Peanuts, while Pickles was pretty well scorched before we got him out of the car. . . . The Irwin Bros. lost two shetland ponies, all the parade costumes which were bought from the Barnum & Bailey show this Spring. About $300 worth of costumes which were mad eduring the Wainter and had never been used, twenty band uniforms, which were bought from Fred Waldmann about two weeks ago, besides all the bedding and the car. Irwin Bros. loss will foot up to $4,000. William Scharer(?), who has charge of candy stand, lost his entire stock and personal wardrobe, which was stored in a trunk. Although the loss is heavy it did not cripple us any in giving our show. Only one act was left out afternoon of ?, and that was replaced at night with Prof. White's troupe of dogs. A great many of our working people lost their clothes, as they did not have time to put them on. Some of the papers had it that the show was totally destroyed, which is not the case. We are giving the whole show, just same as when we opened, and we will be all right in a day or two. Fred Irwin is now in New York, negotiating with parties for a big car. We have a train of eight cars, and our business has been big since our opening. Of course the fire put a crimp in our bank roll, but by night of ? we will be all O.K. Charles R. White is our only contracting agent, and Dave Gedd is advertising agent. John Winter, our general agent, is now back with the show, looking after things while Fred Irwin is away. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
    1891: Wanted quick, a good chandelier man. Wire to Poughkeepsie, Hudson or Troy, New York. Address Fred Irwin, Irwin Bros. Show. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 162.
    1891: William Edwards, tumbler and pyramid performer and Joseph Wilton(?), bar performer. . . . Mr. Edwards . . . will very likely join the Irwin Bros. Show in New England at an early date, having worked with that show for several consecutive seasons. Next fall he will practice a new act in conjunction with his brother. . . . New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 167.
    1891: Troy, New York. Irwin Bros.' Circus comes 11, 12, 13. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 170.
    1891: From the Irwin Brothers’ Circus: Eight ponies were recently added to the show, making forty-three head of stock for parade. The new parade costumes, trappings, etc., are nearly completed, and will be much handsomer than those destroyed in the fire. Everything will be finished by June 1. The show is giving the best of satisfaction. Josie Ashton is riding better than ever. Professor John White is breaking new stock to replace that lost in the fire. Stirk and Zeno are doing wonderfully clever work in their aerial act, having added several new tricks. Lew Suntin [sic Lew Sunlin?] bought another donkey, and will have him working in about ten days. . . . New York Dramatic News, May 23, 1891, p. 6.
    1891: Holyoke, Massachusetts. Irwin Bros.' Circus played here 21(?), 22 to large crowds. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 202.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros.' Keene, N. H. May 27, Winchester 28, Gardnar, Mass. 29, Fitchburg 30, Waltham June 1, 2, Charles ton 3, 4, Chelsea 5, 6. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros.' Charleston, Mass June 3, 4, Chelsea 5, 6. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 219.
    1891: John Winter, press agent, Irwin Bros. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 218.
    1891: Notes from Irwin Bros.' Circus. After a twenty five days' stay in Maine we are once more back on our old stamping grounds, Massachusetts. Business in the larger cities and towns has been enormous, but the smaller ones were only fair. Since the fire at Sing Sing May 2, we have had no accident. The company is well and happy. . . . Fred Huber and wife were also visitors on that day. . . . Josie Ashton has had some wonderful press notices, Stirk and Zeno catch the audience daily with their daring act. The three Melvelles are improving in their brother act. . . . Manager Fred Irwin's wife was called home on account of the sudden illness of her father. Treasurer Winter leaves the show at the close of this season to go into partnership with ___ in the jewelry business out West. Manager Irwin has secured two very good novelties for his specialty company, and says he will have one of the very best variety companies on the road this season. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
    1891: At liberty for season 1891-92, Gordon and Lick, musical artists, address as per route Irwin Bros. Circus or Clipper. P.S. Eighth season with Irwin Bros.' Show. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 393.
    1891: Lowell, Massachusetts. Irwin Bros.' Circus did a good business Aug. 8, and Walter L. Main's Circus turned people away 10(?). New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 402.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros.', Kingston, N.Y. Aug 27, Albany 28, Saratoga 29 . . . Schenectady 31, Amsterdam Sept. 1, Gloversville 2, Johnstown 3, Utica 4, Rome 5. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 417.
    1891: Wanted, one or two good strong specialties for Irwin Bros. Comedy and Vaudeville Co. season 1891-92. For balance of circus season. Good leapers and tumblers, good double trapeze (man and woman or two women), good chandelier man that understands Gale lights. Write quick to Fred Irwin, manager. Route: Aug. __ Newburg, N.Y., 27 Kingston, 28 Albany, 29 Saratoga, 31 Schenectady, Sept. 1 Amsterdam N.Y. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 429.
    1891: Denny Stirk was a Clipper caller Aug. 28(?). He and his partner, Mr. Zeno, closed with Irwin Bros.' Circus 2?, owing to Mr. Zeno's illness. Mr. Stirk will rest for a few weeks at Atlantic City, N.J., until Mr. Zeno recuperates his health. New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 435.
    1891: J. B. Swafford joined the advance force of Irwin Bros.' Show . . . Mr. Swafford recently purchased a ___ dog, which he has named The Clipper. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 469.
    1891: . . . Irwin Bros.' Circus . . . The circus closed its tour at Buffalo, N.Y., Sept. __. The Irwin Bros. will have a much larger __ next season, having added twelve cages of animals and considerable other new ___. Mr. White has not yet signed for the winter season, although he has several good offers. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 502.
    1891: W. J. and Mme. Irwin have closed a twenty-one weeks' season with the Irwin Bros.' Show. They will play dates this winter. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.

    1892: The Irwin Brothers' Circus, Menagerie and Hippodrome. The standard show of the East. Enlarged to three times its former size. Wanted for the side show . . . freaks, curiosities, snake charmers, glass ___ and fire eaters . . . Colored band. Ventriloquists and all acts pertaining to a first class museum preferred. . . . Address Harry Mack, ___ Bowery, New York City. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 853.
    1892: Demonio, great forward bender, has signed with the Irwin Bros.' Show for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 15.
    1892: Season 1892. Wanted, male and female riders, female aerialists, female hippodrome riders, knockabout clowns, railroad contractor. Irwin Bros.' New Railroad Circus, Museum, Double Menagerie and Real Roman Hippodrome. Everything new, three times its original size. Address Fred Irwin, manager, care of Courier Litho. Co., Buffalo, N.Y. 1892, 1892 season Irwin Bros.' Comedy and Vaudeville Co. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 64.
    1892: Call. People engaged for Irwin Bros.' New R. R. Shows, Museum, Menagerie and Roman Hippodrome report at Eagle House, Buffalo, N.Y., Monday, April 2?, at 10 o'clock a.m. as follows: Performers to Fred Irwin; Jockeys and hippodrome riders to Frank Marion; Animal men to John White; bosses of different departments to C.(?) L. Irwin. Sideshow people to Harry Mack. Advance people report to Jno. Winter, Thursday a.m. April 1?. Performers notice the regular size trunks 18x__x24 will be carried, nothing larger. Wanted, a few more 4 and 6 horse drivers. Address Jack Griffin, Eagle House, Buffalo, N.Y. Canvas men address Jake Platt. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 95.
    1892: Buffalo, New York. John Boyle has signed with Irwin Bros.' Circus, whose season opens at Buffalo, April 2?. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 102.
    1892: Buffalo, New York. Irwin Brothers' Circus opened splendidly. Forepaugh comes 16, 17. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 150.
    1892: Rochester, New York. Irwin Bros.' New Railroad Show give two performances her 10. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 150.
    1892: The advance car No. 1, of the Irwin Bros.' All Feature Railroad Show, left Buffalo, N.Y., April 17 in charge of the genial Charles ?. White, with eighteen men. . . . The bill posters, lithographers and programmers are: . . . Thos. Coleman . . . Jos. Woods, Frank Barry . . . Byron Freebury and Ed. Smith. Capt. White has named the car the "Hustler(?)." It is a marvel of beauty, and was built expressly for Irwin Bros. and John Winter at a cost of $6,000(?). It has a pure snow white exterior, with enameled trimmings and gold letters. It is without a doubt one of the finest and best equipped advance cars ever placed on the road, with all of the latest improvement. The elegant private office is beautifully wainscoated with French plate mirrors from roof to floor, and is a dazzler and a surprise to all. Aside from that there are twenty single folding berths, and last, but not least, a musical caliope [sic] awakes the denizens when entering a town. Manager White reports that since they have been out that his men have made an average of ___ sheets of paper per week in the country, and his competent staff is doing some fine work. The second brigade is also doing some clever work. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros., West Troy NY May 26, Troy 27, 28 . . . New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
    1892: Troy, New York. Irwin Bros.' circus had good business 27, 28. While taking down the tent 28, the centre pole fell, seriously injuring Wm. Paul, employe, about the head and shoulders. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 198.
    1892: New Haven, Connecticut. Irwin Bros.' Big Shows are underlined for June 11. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
    1892: Bridgeport, Connecticut. May 30(?) Forepaugh's Circus. June 10 Irwin Bros. Circus. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros., Waterbury CT June 8, Bridgeport 10, New Haven 11. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
    1892: Wanted to buy or rent, one or two more elephants and camels. Address Fred Irwin, Boston Job Print, Boston, Mass. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 257.
    1892: Wanted, for the Irwin Bros.' Circus, lady equestrians with their own stock, acrobats, gymnasts, etc. For the side show curiosities and performers, a lady that can do an act and handle serpents. For circus address Fred Irwin; for sideshow address Harry Mack. As per route: Rochester N.H. July 13, Springvale, Me. 14, Saccarapa 15, Portland 16, Rockland 18, Bath 19. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 305.
    1892: Notes from Irwin Bros.' Circus. Geo. Irwin left us July 13 to visit his family at Buffalo and combine business with pleasure. Quite a notable event occurred at Rochester, N.H., 13, which will long be remembered by the members of the Irwin Bros.' Co. There had been quite a little joking for the past three weeks about who could win the three legged race in the hippodrome, which finally resulted in a wager and a match between John McCabe, of the American Macs, and Frank D. Bryan, of the National Trio, as one team, and Cook House Bill and Horse Tent Jack to run against them as the other team. Each team put up ten dollars apiece, while the outside purse amounted to $280. The gong sounded, the race started, amid the cheers of the audience and excitement was intense, the performers urging their party ahead in order that the championship might be brought to the dressing room, while the hostlers and cook house people were just as vigorous in urging their champions to do the same for them. Bryan and McCabe secured the lead, and continue to increase the distance between themselves and their opponents, winning the race by ten yards. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.1892: Horse opera notes from Irwin Bros.' Circus. The advent of the Irwin Bros.' Show this season has fully proven their high standing reputation throughout the entire Western country, and have added many new towns to their circuit. This season the show has been enlarged in all its departments. Besides the double menagerie, mammoth hippodrome races, monarch museum, trained animal exposition and the big one ring colossal circus never fails to please the vast daily attendance. At Colebrook(?), N.H., Aug. 8, the show was the first circus that had visited that besighted burg in twenty-five years, and in fact the only railroad show that had ever exhibited in that place. It proved the ___ of the season, as thousands were turned away afternoon and evening. . . . Frank Bryan, the clown, never fails to capture the audience . . . Fred Irwin paid a flying visit to the advance . . . the show will go into Virginia, then close the season at New Orleans. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 372.
    1892: J. E. Boyle, railroad contractor and advance representative of the Irwin Bros. Circus has received many offers for the coming seasons. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 372.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros.', Lynn MA Aug 19, 20. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 376.
    1892: [Ad] Prof. John White, can be engaged for winter season with his collection of educated animals. Horses, dogs, ponies, mules, goats and monkeys. En route Irwin Bros.' Circus. Permanent address No. 3, Brady Ave., Baltimore, Md. New York Clipper, August 27, 1892, p. 398.
    1892: Jersey City, New Jersey. Irwin's Circus will pay us a visit Sept. 7. Forepaugh is billed for 14(?). New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 422.
    1892: Newark, New Jersey. Irwin Bros.' Circus pitch their tents here 7, 8, 9. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 422.
    Paterson, New Jersey. Irwin Bros. drew fairly good houses _. The stakes were pulled and the big tent removed from the old Ball Ground to the Colt's Hill lot, where two performances will be given _. Forepaugh's Circus exhibits here 26. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 422.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros., Jersey City NJ Sep 7, Newark 8-10, Orange 12. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 427.
    1892: Wanted for a long season with Irwin Bros.' Circus, 5 more billposters. Address H. I. Ellis, Dover, N.J. Sept. 7, Newton, 8 . . . New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 435.
    1892: Paterson, New Jersey. Irwin Bros. had poor houses 5. Forepaugh 26. New York Clipper, September 17, 1892, p. 438.

    1893: Circus horses and cars for sale. I have taken on chattel mortgage the 8 trained ponies, two 36ft. and one ?0ft. flat cars. Formerly the property of Irwin Bros. I will sell all or a part of it at a reasonable figure. Anyone who has seen the circus in the past two years knows what the ponies can do, and what they are worth. Cars are all in best condition, and ready to move. Everything now laying in Buffalo, N.Y. John Paulin Jr., Mohawk Palace Bath, Buffalo, N.Y. New York Clipper, January 14, 1893, p. 730.
    1893: Manager Fred Irwin writes us that contrary to . . . the Irwin Bros. Show stuff is not for sale at East Buffalo, N.Y. . . . Next season Irwin's Show will be on a bigger scale than ever, Mr. Irwin says. New York Clipper, February 11, 1893, p. 784.
    1893: Wanted, for Irwin Bros.' Mammoth Two Ring Circus, Menagerie and Real Roman Hippodrome, greater, grander than ever. Performers in all branches of the circus business (male and female), riders, acrobats, female aerial acts, clowns, hippodrome riders, features for sideshow and curiosities of all kinds. For sale: 80ft. round top, two 40ft. middle pieces; sleeper (air brakes), sleeps 58(56?) people, bedding, etc., complete; two 50ft. flat cars (straight pipe); one 40ft. flat car (straight pipe); one 70ft. combination baggage car (air brake), sleeps 125 people, bedding, etc., complete. These cars, etc., can be seen by applying to Crandell & Co., East Buffalo, N.Y. Reason for selling this property is that we have purchased from Thos. L.(?) Grenier, the Enchanted Palace Cars, formerly the property of W. C. Coup. Season of 1893 we will have the finest circus train that ever left winter quarters. Address Fred Irwin, Irwin Bros. Co., Feb. 6, Empire Thea., Indianapolis; Feb. 13, People's Thea., Chicago; Feb. 20, Monumental Thea., Baltimore. New York Clipper, February 11, 1893, p. 797.
    1893: Irwin Bros.' advance this season will be stronger than ever. The following well known agents, billposters and lithographers having been engaged: . . . Chas. King, in charge of car No. 1 with the following assistants: Geo. H. Hartford, lithographer; Wm. M. Kramer, boss billposter; Nick Thimas and Oscar ___, programmers and these billposters: . . . A. Harrington, W. J. Saunders, Chas. O'Malley, Wm. J. Smith, Frank Billings . . . George Blatz and Tom Coleman. Advance brigade No. 2: H. J. Melrose in charge . . . Thomas J. Ingram, programmer . . . and these billposters: Wm. Connors, Fred Johnson . . . Frank Keller and Charles Banks. Advance brigade No. 3 will consist of country route inspectors and general advertisers. This brigade will have four men, ___ Fred Beckman, the superintendent. It will be seen that Irwin Bros. have carefully selected their advance force. Car No. 1 was the auditorium(?) car of W. C. Coup's rolling palace. Besides having all modern conveniences, it has an electric light plant, sleeping berths, two bathrooms and a stateroom. Advance car No. 2 was formerly used as a private car for a leading railroad magnate. New York Clipper, March 11, 1893, p. 2.
    1893: Notes from Irwin Bros. Circus. Everything is progressing finely at winter quarters, Buffalo, and the red paint is flying in all directions. The show will be the largest, finest and best ever under the name of Irwin Bros. Harry W. Semon, our general advance agent, will herald the news, with car No. 1 and sixteen people, and several tons of new and attractive printing. The following have already signed: Abelardo Lowande and wife, for their principal bareback riding acts; Jas. G. Bell and wife, principal hurdle and jockey acts; Frank D. Bryan, principal singing and talking clown; James Wesley Mack, principal knockabout clown; the Four Hobsons, in their posturing act; Moore, Gillmore and Moore, return act, aerial ladders and flying perch; Emma Lewis, outside ascension and slack wire; three Hoddy Bros., Jennie, Arthur and Peter(?), acrobatic act and Roman ladders . . . Coyle, dancing somersault tight rope; troupe of Bedouin Arabs . . . Alice Adams, sensational riding act; Frank D. Bryan and ___, parody posturers; the American Two Mars (John McCale(?) and James Wesley Mack) . . . first band of twelve mouth pieces and drums under the direction of Wm. Johnson; second band of ten mouth pieces and drums, under the direction of Geo. M. Thomas. The sideshow wil be run by the Irwin Bros. this season. We will have quite a spread of canvas, for a small show: 120(?)ft. round top, two 50ft. middle pieces; the menagerie, 90(?)ft. round top, two 40ft. middle pieces; sideshow, 60(?)ft. round top, one 40ft. middle piece, three horse tents and two cook tents, besides one 50(?)ft. round top for the display of blooded stock. New York Clipper, March 11, 1893, p. 2.
    1893: Wanted, to hear from man with trained ponies, also a few more sideshow people for Irwin Bros.' Circus, Menagerie, Museum and Real Roman Hippodrome. Harry W. Semon, general advance agent. Fred Irwin, week of March 13, Auditorium, Baltimore, Md.; March 20, Waldman's, Newark, N.J.; This week, Miner's Bowery Theatre, N.Y. New York Clipper, March 11, 1893, p. 15.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros., Monroe MI May 31, Wyandotte June 1, Detroit 2, 3. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
    1893: Larry and Jerry Ryan have joined Irwin Bros.' Circus. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 201.
    1893: Jack Griffin and wife . . . closed with the Irwin Bros. Circus, at Grand Rapids, Mich., June 23(?). New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 280.
    1893: The Moores and Nellie and Burt Gilmore have closed with Irwin Bros.' Show. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Irwin Bros., Ames IA Aug 1?, Lake City 21, Sac City 22, Ida Grove 23. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 379.
    1893: Prof. S. L. Cohen, formerly of Irwin Bros.' Circus, is now with Rentz & Co.'s Circus. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 394.
    1893: Jerome, frog man, and wife, Kokina(?), have closed with the Irwin Bros.' Circus, and are enjoying the sights at the World's Fair. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 397.

    1894: Wanted, at once, people in all branches of the circus business (except riders) and band of eight or ten mouthpieces. Fred Irwin, Lyceum Theatre, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 157.
    1894: Chicago, Illinois. Irwin Bros.' Circus organized here and gave the opening performance 14(?). New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 163.
    1894: For sale, the entire show property of the Irwin Bros.' Circus, consisting of cars, tents, animals, cages, wagons, etc. Apply at once to C. L. Irwin, or Crandall & Co., East Buffalo, N. Y. New York Clipper, December 8, 1894, p. 645.

    1895: Irwin Show notes. Irwin Brothers' Circus is now in its third week at Fifty-sixth Street and Eighth Avenue, this city [New York], and is packing the tents nightly. Rheinhold ???, the theatrical caterer and sharpshooter, is now proprietor of the show, and Fred Irwin is at his usual post as the manager. John White, the all around animal trainer, is equestrian director, and Ike Rose, general man of the show, also controls the privileges. The performers in the circus are: Farnum and Welcome, pyramids; Zola Sisters, aerialists; . . . Sexton(?) Bros., Grecian and Roman athletics; Mlle. Winnie, contortionist; Fred. Welcome, head balancing; Judge Family, acrobats; John White and his trained horses, mules, dogs, monkeys and goats; and the funny Irish clowns, John Connelly and Edward Evans, popularly known as Young Dan Rice. The following appear in one of the strongest concerts ever given with a circus: McBride and ???, Madden and Conley, Burns, . . . Florence Devere and Hogan, and Eddie Evans. A professional matinee is extended to the circus and theatrical performers at present in or around this city. All are invited to attend on Aug. 16, at the circus lot, Fifty-sixth Street and Eighth Avenue. New York Clipper, August 17, 1895, p. 371.

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Irwin Bros. Wild West - 1911, circa 1914

    Pete Culbertson, Culbertson's Irwin Bros. Wild West. Culbertson said to have traded one half of this show to Wade Coulter in 1911. "Circus World Museum Presents the Papers of William P. Hall," Bandwagon, Vol. 18, No. 2 (Mar-Apr), 1974, p. 21. H. S. Rowe was on Irwin's Wild West show after 1913. "Norris & Rowe Circus," Chang Reynolds, Bandwagon, Vol. 16, No. 2 (Mar-Apr), 1972, p. 13. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

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Jackson Bros. - 1891

    Wanted for season of 1891, for Jackson Bros.' Great International Shows, people in all branches of circus business; performers who can do two or more good specialties, leap and tumble; want a good somersault bareback act - rider with stock preferred; a few good concert people who can double in brass. Also boss canvasman, chandelier, billposters, drivers, good property man. Address A.(?) K.(?) Jackson, manager, Fontanella, Iowa. New York Clipper, January 24, 1891, p. 732.
    1891: Wanted for season of 1891, for Jackson Bros.' Great International Shows, people in all branches of circus business; performers who can do two or more good specialties, leap and tumble; want a good somersault bareback act - rider with stock preferred; a few good concert people who can double in brass. Also boss canvasman, chandelier, billposters, drivers, good property man. Address A. E.(K?) Jackson, manager, Fontanelle, Iowa. New York Clipper, January 31, 1891, p. 749.
    1891: Jackson Bros.' Circus is reported to have collapsed at Adel, Ia., April 29(?), after being on the road less than a week. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
    Jackson Bros.’ Circus was attached at Adel, Ia., recently for $8,000. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 169.

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J. L. Jackson - 1891

    Wanted, for the season of 1891, for J. L. Jackson's Variety Show, people in all branches of circus business, except riding. Troupe of trained dogs, band people, and all kinds of performers for a first class show. Address J. L. Jackson, West Mecca(?), Trumbull Co., Ohio. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 18.
    1891: Dwight Clapp, formerly of Walter Main's Circus, has signed as general agent of J. L. Jackson's Great Pacific Circus. Jackson Brothers show. New York Clipper, March 21, 1891, p. 22.
    1891: Roster of J. L. Jackson's Pacific Shows, which open at West Mecca, O., May 7: Dwight Clapp, general agent, with six billposters, one lithographer and one programmer in advance; J. L. Jackson, manager . . . Bigelow with his trick horsess, Firefly and Mazippa(?) . . . Michael Joseph . . . Lotta Parks, Minnie Richards and others. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 135.
    All people engaged for the J. L. Jackson's Pacific Shows report at Courtland, Ohio, not later than May ?, as show opens at West Mecca, May 7. No extra sized trunks allowed. Wanted, a man with troupe trained dogs, and man with educated horse and a few more general performers. J. L. Jackson, West Mecca, Ohio. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 148.
    Wanted, a few good musicians to double brass and string, telegraph quick to J. L. Jackson, Warren, O. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 179.
    Notes from the Hunting Show. Dwight Clapp, of the Jackson Show, was with us at Wellsburg 1?. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
    On the road, circuses: J. L. Jackson's, Fairview, WV June 3, Mannington 4, Farmington 5, Fairmont 6, Arnoldville 7,8, Morgantown 9, . . . Waynesburg, PA 11 . . . New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 219.
    On the road, circuses: J. L. Jackson's, Marion, Pa., July 1, Burnside 2, Mahaffey 3 . . . Madera 6, Osceola 7.
    1891: On the road, circuses: J. L. Jackson's, Woodland, Pa. July 9, Keylartown 10, Snow Shoe 11, Milesburg 13, Howard 14. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
    1891: Wanted, performers to strengthen show, also an A1 baritone player for band. J. L. Fussner, care of J. L. Jackson's Shows, as per route. . . . New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 307.
    The J. L. Jackson Show is traveling through Pennsylvania to reported good business. The Morello Bros. . . . J. Q. Fusner, Ida Austin, Jennie Morello, Bobbie Mack, Master Jackson, Cap Murchin, Ida Morello and Wm. Adams are with the show. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
    1891: Wanted, quick for the J. L. Jackson Pacific Combination Shows. A contortionist that can do two or more acts. Also a trapeze team that can work on bars. Can use juggler that can do two specialties. Route: Northumberland, Pa. July 23, Danville 24 . . . Bloomsburg 27. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 342.
    Professor J. L. Jackson’s Circus reports good business through Pennsylvania. The troupe of trained horses excites the keenest interest everywhere. New York Dramatic News, August 15, 1891, p. 10.
    Notes from the J. L. Jackson Shows. Business for the past few weeks has been very satisfactory, with the exception of one or two stands. But the gentleman with the clean clothes on manages to make his usual rounds, and everybody is in good health and spirits. . . . Our performance gives universal satisfaction. Frank Kelly and Wm. Day are recent additions. They do a wrestling act and a three round glove contest, and never fail to elicit applause. The show will be greatly enlarged next season. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.

    1892: For sale, one band wagon, one light ticket wagon, one baggage wagon, twelve band uniforms, complete; one star tent light, forty-eight jet, and one paste can and heater. The above property has been used two seasons. J. L. Jackson, Cortland, Ohio. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 30.

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James & Lass - 1900

    Opened their tenting season April 26 at Lafayette, Indiana. 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.

James Bros. Circus, 1967-68

    The big top of the late Mills Bros. Circus has been purchased by S. J. Kellner of James Bros. Circus which is based at Martinez, Calif. It will be first used to play a few dates in the closing weeks of Dec. He plans to open the 1968 season in March and play the old Al G. Barnes route. James Bros. started a few years ago and played outdoors using a wild west canopy. His indoor dates were played in the middle west. He recently made a trip to India and brought back some elephants. The show will move on 14 trucks. Frank Chicarello long with the old A. G. Barnes show is lining up heads of departments. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Jas. T. Johnson - 1890

    Wanted, with Jas. T. Johnson & Co.'s, circus people in all branches of the circus business . . . good lady specialties such as wire . . . dogs, goats and donkeys wanted; good brass band of eight mouthpieces; song and dance team . . . balloon man who can furnish his own balloon; a good advance man who understands the wagon show business; also boss canvasman. . . . Address Jas. T. Johnson & Co., Arkansas City, Kan. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 830.
    Prof. Harry Strey(?), the aeronaut, and Will Stewart will go with the Jas. T. Johnson & Co.'s Circus this season, under the management of C. G. Eddy, of Quincy. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 126.
    C. G. Eddy, of Quincy, Ill. has contracted to furnish an aeronaut for the Jas. Johnson Show, which takes the road May __. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
    J. T. Johnson's New Circus gave its initial performance at Arkansas City, Kas., May __. The entertainment was one of more than ordinary, and a large crowd is said to have been in attendance. Prof. Frank ___, who [rose] to an altitude of some __ft., and landed from his parachute in the Indian Nation, some twelve miles south, was warmly welcomed by the Cherokees and unavoidable wire fences, the former quite appreciative and pleasant, and the latter tearing some twelve holes in the ___. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 167.

Note: See "James T. Johnson and the Great Western Circus," Orin C. King, Bandwagon, Vol. 30, No. 5 (Sep-Oct), 1986, pp. 19-20.

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Johnson & Perkins - 1894

    Notes from Johnson & Perkins' New Golden Shows. "We are now in winter quarters at Port Byron, N.Y., having engaged the large barns of the Hotel National, where we are painting our wagons and getting in shape for the coming season. The show will be under the sole management for M. B. Johnson. Frank G.(O.?) Perkins has gone to Medina, in view of purchasing Gallagher's Columbian Shows." New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
    Notes from Johnson & Perkin's New Golden Shows. Still the good work goes on. We have now under construction one of the great band chariots in America. The show will travel by wagons, carrying thirty head of stock. . . . James McNeal(?) will have charge of canvas. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 831.
    1894: Notes from Johnson & Perkins' New Golden Shows and Mitchell's Royal Menagerie. All ready for the road. The monster shows will open May __ at Syracuse and then along the Hudson, and will make a tour of twenty-six weeks. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 87.

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Johnson, Simpson & Co. - 1885

    Johnson, Simpson & Co.’s Circus and Museum will open at Glen Elder, Kas., with an entirely new outfit July 25. T. B. Sadler will be in charge of the advance brigades, assisted by Wash. Blodgett. The new company will be managed by Jas. T. Johnson, with Frank Brown as treasurer and Chas. Simpson as equestrian director. The people will include Mlle. Editha, equestrienne; La Petite Ella, Johnson Sisters, Prof. Coutts and wife, Montague Sisters, Alt. Doran, Madame De Vere, Annie Carroll and Eddie Snow, Charley Lamont, Herr Drayton, and Cavana and Mason. The sideshow will be managed by Prof. De Vere, and the music will be furnished by Prof. Hardee’s Des Moines reed and cornet band. New York Clipper, August 1, 1885. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Jones Bros. Wild West - 1910

    Jones Bros.' Wild West showed to big business at Portchester, N. Y., Saturday, July 16. Frank A. Robbins Jr. spent the day with this show 16. H. F. Hall, who was advance with the I. X. L. Show, in South America, last Winter, has the picture machine and downtown show with Jones Bros.' Wild West Show. The show will make some big jumps when it goes West. [Is this Jones Bros. Buffalo Ranch Wild West?] 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.

Jones Bros. World Toured Shows - 1915

    This show had one train with six flat cars, four horse cars, four sleepers and 32 wagons. Show's tents were: a big top, menagerie, sideshow (2), horse (2), dressing & ring stock, candy stands (2), dining (2), cookhouse. Sideshow had a palmist, snakes, fortunes, games of chance, oriental dancers; and Harry Nugent magic and punch; Ethel Nugent, musical; J. C. Miles Colored Minstrels. Circus Report, Vol. 1, No. 30, 1972, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

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Kelley & McFarland - 1892

    Kelley & McFarland's Ten Cent Show opens its season May 7 in New England. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
    On the road, circuses: Kelly & McFarland's, Woodstock VT June 22, 23, Royalton 24, 25, Randolph 27, 2?. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 248.
    On the road, circuses: Kelly & McFarland's, Fair Haven VT July 2, Granville NY 4, 5; Lee's, Belfast ME June 29, Searsport 30, Bucksport July 1, Ellsworth 2, Cherryfield 4, Columbia Falls 5 . . . Pembroke 7, Eastport 8. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
    W. H. McFarland has disposed of his interest in the Kelley & McFarland Ten Cent Show to his partner, Thos. P. Kelley. The latter will continue touring the company, while Mr. McFarland has joined Prof. W. W. Dayton's Show. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.

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Kennedy Bros.' Circus and Vaudeville Shows - 1900

    Opened at Bloomington, Illinois, April 25, 26, 27, then, in Illinois, to El Paso, April 28; Minonk, April 30. Illinois: Rutland, May 1; Toluca, May 2; Streator, May 3, 5, 5. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6. Information should be checked with additional sources, especially routes. Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Kidder & Co. - 1893

    Notes from the Kidder & Co.'s Show. We have spent nine weeks under the canopy, playing to fine business for six consecutive weeks. At Shelburne Falls, Mass., we turned people away at both performances. Our afternoon show is our big drawing card for the night house. The "Cyclone" band of eight people are spoken very highly of, and their reditions are the latest published. The roster: C. W. Kidder & Co., proprietors; O. S. Cary(?), general advance manager; John Whitney, manager; C. R. Culbertson, treasurer; Oscar Jones, musical director; Harry Black, equestrian director; Billy Gibons, manager of concert; Marietta(Marletta?) Bros., Leyon Bros., John Thorne, John Foster and wife, Edward S. Johnson, Frank Leopold, Chas J. Newtown, Gibson and Melburne, Mlle Annie . . . Punch Rose and wife, Oscar Jones, director of band; Wm. Maxwell, John Sheehan . . . Geo. W. Jones, John D. Clymer and Curt S. Wright. The ghost perambulates regularly and the weeks go merrily along. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
    Kidder & Co.'s New Railroad Shows have not been free from accidents. They had their day at Milton, Pa., July 8. About 4 o'clock in the morning, when within four miles of Milton, the trucks on one of the flat cars became heated, and before the engineer could stop the train the trucks gave away and the car was derailed. Three cages turned over and several hyenas escaped, producing a panic among the workingmen. The show arrived in the town at 10 o'clock, and through a good deal of hustling the top was up in shape ready for the afternoon performance. The tent was well packed, as usual, and at 3 o'clock, a very heavy storm came up and made more trouble. Quarter poles dance, the tents flapped and people took fright and ran. Mlle. Anie(Annie?), the slack wire performer, jumped from the wire. The band suddenly vacated their seats to get outside, just in time to play "Whirlwind" gallop, when centre poles, canvas and properties went whirling through the air. The band then began to play "When Shall We Meet Again?" Manager John Winter by hard work got the canvas together again, ready for the evening performance, and was greatly surprised to see people turned away by the hundreds half an hour before the performance began. A new canvas was ordered at once and will arrive at Frackville(?) July 12. John Foster, talking clown, received the news on the same day by telegraph of the death of his sister in New York. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    Edward Johnson, contortionist with C. W. Kidder & Co.'s Circus, while doing his clown act with Tom and Jerry, two trained donkeys, at Tu??hanock, Pa., one of them bit him on the big toe, nearly severing it from his foot. He is recovering and will rejoin the show in a few days. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
    H. Millard, who was ahead of the C. W. Kidder Show, but had to retire on account of illness, is all right again and ready for the road. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 366.
    Wanted, performers in all branches of the circus business, concert people, sideshow people. Long season South. C. W. Kidder & Co.'s New R. R. Shows, Sept. 9, Lynchburg, Va., after that Richmond, Va. New York Clipper, September 9, 1893, p. 441.
    On the road, circuses: Kidder's, Richmond, VA Sep 14(?). New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 444.
    Campbell and Franklin have joined Kidder & Co.'s Circus for a southern tour. Jerry Campbell will clown and the team will appear in the concert. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 463.

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Kilgore & Barber - 1899

    Thomas and William Barber and John Kilgour [sic] returned from Cincinnati Saturday. The young men are organizing a circus company which will take the road May 1st. Learning of the sale of Hummell's circus property at Cincinnati, they went down Saturday. The Portsmouth buyers picked up some nice bargains, consisting of uniforms and other paraphrenalia necessary to the business of a circus, and today they were busy opening the goods at their headquarters at Fourteenth and Gay streets, in the building formerly occupied by the Brushart Lumber company. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Tuesday, January 24, 1899, p. 3.
    The Kilgore Circus. Jos. Dupere leader of the Kilgore-Barber show band has engaged the following players: Brazil Haley, Robert Washburn, Jas. Kewser, L. S. Redfield, George Smith, Harry Turner, Everett McElbany, Dan Dodge and Will Crain. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 4, 1899, p. 2.
    Assessor Chas. Windel, of the Fourth ward has been haunting the footsteps of the proprietors of the Kilgore & Barber Bros. show for several days. He wants them to list their show for taxation but they do not think they should be compelled to do so now. Their outfit is incomplete. The matter has been referred to an attorney, but the show boys will probably have to list their show. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 14, 1899, p. 1.
    Arrangements have been made by which the J. W. Kilgore and Barber Bros.' circus will show on Mrs. J. B. Maddock's lot, on Gallia street, opposite the engine house. The entrance to the show will be right at the fence. Wm. Barber said this morning that they expected to give a show that would be a credit to anybody. They have engaged a lot of first-class talent, and that their show will be worth the money goes without saying. The dates of the show are April 17th, 18th and 29th. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 14, 1899, p. 5.
    The J. W. Kilgore and Barber Bros. circus has pitched its tent on Gallia street south of the Engine house. It has a big tent and will give a great show for the money. The price is only 10 and 20 cents. It will show April 27, 28 and 29. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 21, 1899, p. 8.
    The Home Circus Will Show in This City. J. W. Kilgore and Barber Bros. Getting Their Affairs in Shape for Their Grand Opening April 27th. Things have already taken on a show like appearance with the J. W. Kilgore & Barber Bros.' show at their lot on Gallia street opposite the Eat End Engine house. They have exceeded their expectations in getting together their large body of canvass, wagons etc., which are all ready and in first class shape. Their main tent, under which they give their big show is large and roomy, being 100 x 160 feet with a seating capacity of 3,500 people. The boys went at the securing of the outfit with an energy that has undoubtedly rewarded them with success, as they have everything in first class shape. They have under contract for the season some of the best performers money could obtain, a number of which have already arrived and others are coming in daily and by their opening day they will all have arrived and be in fine condition for their season's work. The boys are deserving of the patronage of all as they have brought to us one of the finest exhibitions ever given in our city and have placed the admission within the reach of all, 10 and 20 cents, no more. Remember the dates, April 27, 28 and 29. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 22, 1899, p. 4.
    The Kilgore and Barber Bros.' circus opens tomorrow for three days exhibition. A parade will take place at 10 a. m. Doors will open at 1 and 7 p. m., performance beginning one hour later. Admission will be 10 and 20 cents. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 26, 1899, p. 4.
    The parade of J. W. Kilgore and Barber Bros. Circus was the best ever seen in this city by low priced shows, and the free show on the ground immediately after would indicate that they have possibly the best 20 cent show on the road. In the parade the home talent were strictly in it, as show people. Will Fitzgerald, as leader, will soon be a marked attraction while "Dude" Rickey and the mule will soon establish a reputation as clown and kicker. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 27, 1899, p. 5.
    The Kilgore and Barber Bros.' circus will exhibit at Waverly on Monday next. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Friday, April 28, 1899, p. 1.
    Was the First Performance of This Home Circus. And It Was Greeted by an Audience of Thousands That Was Proud of It as a Local Institution. The J. W. Kilgore & Barber Bro's. circus gave its first entertainment Wednesday evening, to an audience of three thousand people, and every one left giving words ot praise. While this may be termed a home show, it is cerainly the strongest combination on the road for the price. The music under the direction of Prof. Joe Dupre is equal to the high priced aggregations. Prof. Locke with his well-trained horses opened the ring, and for two hours the attention of the large audince was held, while the many perormers were presenting some of the most startling, thrilling and amusing feats known to the show world, such as Mr. and Mrs. Weaver on the ladder, and our own Fitzgerald in the rag time songs. The living statuary work of the Weavers, was worth the price of admission. Dundam and Wilson on the horizontal bars were up to date. Roscoe, the human wheel, almost takes the breath from his audience. Our own " Dude" Rickey at once assumes the professional as a ring clown. The wonderful Baughman, who walks the ceiling with the ease of a fly, the newest and only feature of the kind known to the show, world. The Locke's trick horse was a pleasng feature for the children. Billy Jones on the slack wire proved himself equal to many professionals. The Wilson brothers on the trapeze do good work. The clowns, Klein and Fitzgerald, kept the audience in a good humor. Their hat throwing was an especially new and interesting feature. Prof. Locke with his troupe of trained dogs, the Weavers in their wonderful feats of club juggling, Mrs. DeIves on the swinging pole, and many other features too numerous to mention, make the show the equal of many of the higher priced shows. Mrs. DeIves,one of the leading female performers, was taken sick during the performance and was unable to appear in some of her casts. Everything worked as smooth as if the show had been running for a season, instead of their initial entertainment. The management expect to increase their already strong force. They are deserving of the patronage of the people. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 28, 1899, p. 7.
    Kilgore & Barber Bros.' was encouraged last evening by having to turn people away. At least thirty-five hundred people were inside. The seating capacity was increased yesterday in anticipation of an outpouring of the people. The seating capacity was soon exhausted and standing room at a premium. The show improves as the rought edges are worn off. The large audience was well pleased, and the general verdict was that the boys have a good show. Mr. Weaver, who takes part in the exhibit of living statuary, was taken suddenly ill immediately after his appearance in the ring, and Dr. Foster was called. While might have been a serious accident occurred during the performance of the Wilson brothers on the trapeze. In one of their daring feats in mid-air one of them fell to the ground, a distance of twenty feet, but fortunately he was uninjured. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), April 29, 1899, p. 4.
    The report was circulated that John Robinson had bought up the cars which had been leased by Kilgore & Barber Bros., in order to shut them out. The Robinson people deny this absolutely. They have owned their own cars for years. . . . Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), May 01, 1899, p. 1.
    The Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus arrived in this city today, and at noon gave the neatest and best street parade that has ever been seen in this city with a small circus, and the few acts which the reporter had time to witness this afternoon before press time were equal to any seen in a three ring outfit. The management has certainly spared no pains to put a first class combination together, and as great oaks from little acorns grow, it will not be surprising if this circus some day develops into a mammoth aggregation. It is certainly worth the price of admission, ten and twenty cents. Chillicothe Daily News. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), May 3, 1899, p. 3.
    Word from McArthur today is to the effect that the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus have secured the necessary cars and after the close of their performance at McArthur tonight will leave there by rail for Greenfield, where they will exhibt on Monday. The papers speak in the highest praise of the circus and all the boys connected with it. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Saturday, May 6, 1899, p. 8.
    The Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus were at Greenfield, Highland county, Monday. They are showing to large crowds every evening. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Tuesday, May 9, 1899, p. 1.
    The Greenfield Daily News speaking of the Kilgore and Barber Bros. circus says, "the parade at noon was one of the best seen with a ten and twenty cent circus, and the show itself promises to be fully as good. Chillicothians who passed through here yesterday on the Cincinnati excursion train said the show was without a doubt the best little show that ever was in that city, and that the performers were fully as clever as the ones seen with three ring affairs." Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Wednesday, May 10, 1899, p. 8.
    J. M. Williams, who went out in advance of the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus, has severed his connection with that organization and is succeeded by Basil McHenry. Dr. Waddle, who is on the Findlay Courier, says the show will probably exhibit in that town shortly, and speaks in the highest praise of the show and its people, saying they are meeting with success all along the line. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), May 12, 1899, p. 3.
    Financially Is the Kilgore & Barber Bros. Circus. Had Some Tough Luck. But Billy Barber Says That if the Weather Favors They Will. Pull Out All Right - Tent Was Leveled at Washington C. H. by the Storm and Their Best Trick Horse Killed. Bill Barber, of the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus, was in the city last evening. When held up by a Times reporter he gave the following information concerning the show. They are at South Charleston today, London Wednesday, then at Springfield for three days, at Dayton three days next week. Since leaving here the circus has been showing to crowded houses when the weather was good. They have had considerable tough luck, but are ahead financially anyhow. They now have cars, the failure to get them having caused considerable extra expense. At Wellston they had two horses killed by the cars. They were knocked out at several place on account of rain. The severe storm of last Friday evening caught them at Washington, C. H., leveling their tents to the ground. Fortunately the people had not assembled. They were unable to show that evening, and besides much other damage, they lost the best horse they had, the large sorrel that attracted so much attention while here. He had a leg broken and had to be killed. The boys from here are all well and enjoying the work. Fitzgerald and Dude Rickey are making great hits. Fitz is the life of the show, catches fifteen to twenty sailing hats without a muff, walks the slack wire and is the favorite at every point. Dude Rickey and wife have combined with the Weavers and are showing double statuary work. This seems to be the catching feature of the show. They have added several new people and a trick mule. Dude Rickey rides the mule in the parades. A bunch of grass is suspended in front of the mule just out of reach. The animal continues to reach for it, but it is a case of so near and yet so far, but the animal never loses sight of it. At Greenfield while the parade was moving down one of the principal streets, a venturesome boy ran in front, grabbed the grass and ran up an alley. The mule followed the boy and the grass up the alley, carrying Dude with it. It required a return of the grass to get the pair back into the parade. Mr. Barber is here to purchase several horses. He expects to join the circus about Friday at Springfield. He says all they want is good weather and their venture will prove a success. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Tuesday, May 16, 1899, p. 3.
    Geo. W. Banks is traveling with the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus, as cook. The show is at South Charleston, today, they having changed their route, and did not go to Springfield, inasmuch as Buffalo Bill showed there yesterday, and McCormick Bros. today. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Thursday, May 18, 1899, p. 8.
    James Cowans, general utility man with Kilgore and Barber Bros. circus is home, having left the show at South Charleston, where the show was yesterday. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Saturday, May 20, 1899, p. 1.
    Grant Wiseman left this morning to join the J. W. Kilgore and Barber Bros.' circus at Marysville, Union county. Mr. Wiseman will act in the capacity of press agent and assistant manager. The circus is playing to large audiences every evening. They will be at Bellefontaine, Decoration day. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), May 26, 1899, p. 3.
    Word comes from Bellefoutaine, where the Kilgore & Barber Bro's. circus has been the past three days that business with them is improving and it has done unusnally well notwithstanding much opposition. On Wednesday and Thursday the show will be at Kenton and Findlay, Friday and Saturday I. G. Baughman the aerial artist made a distinct hit in his clever acts in the air. He has associated with him Wm. J. Fitzgerald, of this city, who in addition to his clever clown work does some daring and startling acts with such unison as would indicate they had long been a team. "Fitz" popularity increases at each performance. All the Portsmouth boys including Proessor Dupere and his brass band are in good health and are enjoying "show life," also the Times that is sent them from this office and is a welcome visitor to them at every point. Mrs. John Kilgore, who has been with the show since it started out came home Saturday. She will remain several weeks. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Monday, May 29, 1899, p. 3.
    The Kilgore & Barber Brothers circus company did a handsome thing today when they tendered the services of their fine brass band to the G. A. R. for use in the Decoration Day parade tomorrow morning. The company also agreed to call their afternoon performance off owing to the patriotic services to be held by the old soldiers. . . . The gentlemen in charge of the company are pleasant business men and they have a first class show. It will be packed tonight and out of appreciation of the kindness shown the old soldiers their tent will be taxed to accommodate the crowd on Tuesday night. Bellefontain Index. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Thursday, June 01, 1899, p. 7.
    A report was current today that the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus had encountered financial difficulties at Wapakoneta. Friends of the owners hope that it is not true and that, in any event, the boys will pull out all right. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Friday, June 09, 1899, p. 4.
    Dispatch Gives the Details of Kilgore & Barber Bros.' Troubles. Show Was Literally Plastered Over With Attachments Friday. And the Circus Brought to a Sudden Stand Still—Attorney Finney Goes Up to Straighten Out Matters. A dispatch from Wapakoneta bears out the statement made in The Times Friday that the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus has stranded. The dispatch says: "Wapakoneta, O., June 9. — (Special) — The show of J. W. Kilgore & Barber Bros., which was booked to show here three days this week, is stranded in this city and can get no farther. Several of the employes and performers have sued the proprietors for their wages, aggregating over $500, and the constable attached the whole circus. They have been given permission to continue the show, provided they turn over the receipts." Attorney Frank B. Finney left this morning for Wapakoneta to try and adjust the troubles. He was employed by parties here who have an interest in the show and who want to protect themselves. It is said the show was literally plastered with attachments. The band, which has not had a pay day,started the fun. Then the performers took it up and soon there were enough documents flying around to make a big tent. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Saturday, June 10, 1899, p. 1.
    J. W. Kilgore and Barber Bros., who started out with a circus eight weeks ago, arrived home Sunday from Wapakoneta. At that point, as told in The Times, the show was tied up by attachments. The Portsmouth men had enough of the show business and so they sold out to De Ivery and Bowman, two of the performers, and came home. The new proprietors made some arrangement with the people who got out the attachments and expect to go ahead with the circus. "Dude" Rickey and wife, who were with the show, are also home. "Durte" says he drew $5 salary during the eight weeks he was out. He grew tired of this and at Wapakoneta he got out an attachment on the band wagon. This started the fun and soon all the property was levied upon. Other Portsmouth people with the circus are expected home tonight. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Monday, June 12, 1899, p. 4.
    Gradually the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' Circus company are reaching home. Thomas Barber, who was a one-third owner in the show, took a team and wagon and is driving home from Wapakoneta, where the show stranded. He is expected here tonight. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Tueday, June 13, 1899, p. 1.
    A message floated over the wires from Wapakoneta Monday from Colonel George Washington Banks, of East Eleventh street. It conveyed the news that the Colonel, who was the cook for the Kilgore & Barber Bros. show, was stranded and stood in need of ten dollars to get home. The Colonel had not had a pay day since the show started. His wife sent him the money and Col. G. Washington will sonn be with us again. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), June 13, 1899, p. 8.
    In the Hole. J. W. Kilgore Is Out Over Twelve Hundred Dollars. By His Short Experience in the Circus Business—Intends to Pay Up All His Men in the Near Future. J. W. Kilgore, of the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus, arrived home Wednesday afternoon. In an interview with a Times reporter Mr. Kilgore said he had enough of the show business, as he lost about twelve hundred dollars in the few weeks they were out. The weather and transportation facilites were against them from the start. "The receipts," said Mr. Kilgore,"were just about enough to pay the running expenses, such as board and transportation. This caused us to get behind with salaries. I feel sure that if our people would have held off a few weeks longer we would have run into better territory and pulled out all right. But when one filed an attachment, several others followed, and the trouble began. I said to several of them, especially to the home people, 'Keep out of this attachment business and I will see that you get your money; if not on the road, when we get home, even if we have to abandon the show.' Several of them did so. These will get all the money due them in a short time. The report that we broke full-handed is a mistake. We turned over everything, having barely money enough to bring us home. Those who filed the attachments causing the sale of the property outside of a proper market have been unable to realize anything. The property cost us nearly three thousand dollars and sold for about three hundred dollars. It took this amount to pay costs and attorneys' fees, leaving the attaches where they started." Mr. Kilgore, although his losses are heavy, says he is not entirely a financial bankrupt, and his personal promises made to his people will be made good. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), June 15, 1899, p. 3.
    Thomas Barber and Wm. Jones and James Cook are the last delegation of circus men to reach home, they having arrived Friday night. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), Saturday, June 17, 1899, p. 1.
    I. G. Baughman and Wm. Fitzgerald, who, as aerial artists, were connected with the ill-fated Kilgore and Barber shows, have joined the John Robinson shows. A letter from them dated Somerset says they are doing all right. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), June 19, 1899, p. 7.
    J. W. Williams, who stranded here when "The Pulse of Greater New York" quit beating, and later went out in advance of the Kilgore & Barber Bros.' circus, has finally landed at Maysville, where he has taken charge of Electric park as manger. Among well known people who are with the Harris Nickel-Plated shows, billed to appear here on July 11th, are Fred Dewey and wife and Geo. Kline, who were associated with the Barber & Kilgore combination. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), July 6, 1899, p. 7.
    Baughman, the aerial artist, remembered here as being a member of the Kilgore and Barber Bros. circus, was at Lucasville today en route to the Mt. Joy fair. Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), August 30, 1899, p. 6.
    "A Wapakoneta paper says: 'Joseph Dupere, formerly leader of Kilgore & Barber's circus band, which stranded in this city a week or so ago, has been induced to locate in Wapakoneta, and will be the leader and instructor of the Wapaokneta City band. Mr. Dupere is a fine musician, and as a performer on wind instruments is said to have no superior in the country. It is fortunate for our musical organizations that they have been able to secure so able an instructor.' " Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), July 5, 1899, p. 5.

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King & Franklin's Circus - 1890-91

    1889: King & Franklin are credited with running the “cleanest little show” on the road. New York Clipper, August 3, 1889, p. 340.
    1889: A. N. King, one of the proprietors of the King & Franklin Circus, sailed Dec. 7 for England. Accompanied by his wife, he will make a winter tour of the British Isles, France, Germany and Italy. New York Clipper, December 14, 1889, p. 663.

    1890: Andrew N. King. News of the death of this well known circus proprietor and __ performer is cabled from London, Eng., where he passed away suddenly Jan. 7. Mr. King left Chattanooga, Tenn., early in December, for a pleasure trip to Europe, accompanied by his wife, and the last heard from him he was in fine spirits and enjoying good health. The circus, as has been its custom for several years, is wintering at Chattanooga, and Mr. Franklin left a short time ago for Chicago, Ill., to arrange for the printing matter for the coming season, as well as prepare to enlarge the circus. Mr. Franklin, upon learning the sad news, at once communicated with Mr. Bailey, of the Barnum & Bailey Circus, offering assistance in any way deemed adviseable. Mrs. King was seriously ill at the time of her husband's death, and was for some days kept in ignorace of the fact, lest her own condition should become worse. The [death] of Mr. King adds another to the long list of deaths resulting from "La Grippe." He had been in robust health for many years, never missing a performance; but the London fog, added to the influenza, proved too much for him, and he caught a severe cold, developing into pneumonia, it carried him off. Mr. Franklin was in this city Jan. __, and from him the Clipper gleans valuable information as to his late partner's career. Andrew N. King was born at Galveston, Tex., forty six years ago and had followed the white tents since his boyhood, for at the age of ten he was apprenticed to an old time circus manager, who brought him up intelligently and well. He began his public career as a performer, and for years he was regarded as and exceptionally clever and daring acrobat. His first and principal partner was Aubrey(?), and the team of Aubrey(?) and King was at one time the highest paid acrobats in the business, drawing $___ a week for a six week's engagement in on instance. They were the first in this country to do the hand to hand somersault, which has since been used so widely. They traveled with several of the large circuses, and acquired no little reputation. Injuries received from a fall put an end to Mr. King's career as a performer. While playing at Toledo, O., he fractured one shoulder, and three or four ribs, sustained a double fracture of one ankle and killed a man in the audience upon whom he fell. When the circus attaches picked Mr. King up and cut off his tights, he remarked that he had worn tights for the last time. He never put them on again. Perhaps this accident was his good fortune, after all. At any rate, it lead him into a new field in the circus business, and in it he found success and comparative riches. He took the programme privileges with Adam Forepaugh's Circus, and for five or six years he continued to control them, making his first capital in that venture, which was quite profitable, for the program privilege was then much more of a yield and novelty than it is now. Finally, eight years ago, he became a member of the firm of King, Burke & Co., in which W. E. Franklin was the company. They put a compact and attractive circus on the road, and from the first it won favor and money. When Mr. Burke retired Mr. Franklin's name was added to that of Mr. King. The new title, King & Franklin, has since been ___ with success. During one season, a second tent show was sent out by King & Franklin, George W. Fursman(?) being associated with them. At the end of its first tour it was sold to Col. J. H.(?) Wood(?). Mr. King was a rather small sized, compactly built man, with dark complexion, black moustache and a quite, ___ manner. The employees of the circus now at Chattanooga, including members of the band, are affected by the news of Mr. King's untimely death. Mr. Franklin was usually ahead of the show during the tenting season, bur Mr. King was always with the company. He was a large hearted, considerate employer and his friends were legion. Almost ten years ago he married Alida(?) McKee, a sister of J. W. McKee, an old actor, a sheriff of Paterson, N. J., and now retired. They had no children. Mr. King's father and mother are dead, and the . . . the widow, are two sisters, residing at Chattanooga. The remains will be ___ and shipped to this city for interment. Mr. Franklin informs us that the firm name will be retained throughout the coming season at least, as the printing is already under way. After that his plans depend upon the legal disposition of Mr. King's estate. The deceased died in comfortable circumstance. He will be sincerely mourned by many followers of the white tents. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
    1890: Notes from Stowe Bros.' Shows. . . . The death of A. N. King, far away in London, was heard of through the Clipper with much sorrow by the entire company, especially by Messrs. Stowe Bros., who had both in the past enjoyed close friendship with the deceased. John F. Stowe was for several years intimately associated with Mr. King, and once served as equestrian director of the King & Franklin Show. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
    1890: Andrew N. King's remains arrived from England in this city Feb. 10, the widow, Alida King, accompanying them. Relatives and friends are invited to attend the funeral on Wednesday, Feb. 12, from the residence of his brother in law, James W. McKee(?), 17? Paterson Street, Paterson, N. J., at 2.30 o'clock p.m. A train leaves Chambers Street ferry, Erie Railroad, at 1 p. m., and Twenty-third Street at 12.55. The internment will be at Cedar Lawn. Mr. Franklin, partner in the King & Franklin Circus has remained in town to attend the funeral. He will leave for the South about Feb. 13. The show will be run under the present name this year, the widow of Mr. King retaining his interest. New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 813.
    1890: . . . Al. Worlen . . . signed with the King & Franklin Show for the season of 1890. It will be Mr. Worlen's fifth season with the show. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 829.
    1890: 20 musicians for King & Franklin's Circus. Two first class brass bands wanted. . . . Carl Clair . . . New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 834.
    1890: The Blair Bros., musical sketch team and J. Kayser, cornetist, have signed with King & Franklin's Circus. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 5.
    1890: Eddie Martine, aerialist and gymnast, has signed with the King & Franklin Show. New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 23.
    1890: Riano(?) and Bentley have signed with King & Franklin's Show. New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 23.
    1890: Wanted for hippodrome, lady jockeys and men for standing races. Also people for sideshow. Season opens April 7. Address King & Franklin, Chattanooga, Tenn. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 47.
    1890: Notes from the King & Franklin Show. . . . The entire train has been newly painted and lettered . . . A carload of fine stock . . . to the show for the hippodrome races . . . thirteen head of fine imported Shetland(?) ponies. The stock is undergoing a rigid course of training, under the direction of Prof. Andy Showers and Edward Franklin (brother of W. E. Franklin). The show will make a fine parade, carrying sixty head of stock and two brass bands. The following is a list of the people: W. E. Franklin and wife, Mrs. A. N. King, Edward Franklin, John Hamilton . . . Prof. Andy Showers and daughter, Prof. Punch Irvin and wife . . . Lillian King, Mrs. St. Elmo, Miss De Alma . . . Eddie Martine, John Gilroy . . . the Three De Almas . . . J. P. Fagan, John Irwin . . . Frank Parcell, Lew Wallace . . . Robert Hodge . . . Chas. Crosby, Harry Nelson, Samuel Albright . . . Frank Crowe . . . Jas. Foster, Tom Carter, Frank Bernardo, Thomas Fey, Henry Richards, Frank Collins . . . Edward Jones, Rob(Bob?) Harold . . . four jockeys and many others. New York Clipper, April 5, 1890, p. 59.
    1890: Wanted, people for hippodrome races, who do turn in big show or concert. Address King & Franklin, Muncie, Ind. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 127.
    1890: The following are the advertising people ahead of the King & Franklin show: . . . Lew Wallace, general manager . . . Jame Donohue . . . Harry Phillips . . . New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 183.
    1890: At Ann Arbor, Mich., May __. King & Franklin's Circus was attended by a large number of University students. During the performance they kept ___ the performers. When the audience had retired the circus men, armed with sticks, attacked the students, who had remained in a group. Missiles of all sorts were thrown, many blows were exchanged and ___ were fired. Several were badly and some fatally injured. . . . A colored circus man named Cook was shot in the shoulder, and several other employes are in the University Hospital more or less injured. About thirty circus men in all were injured. New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 197.
    1890: Wanted, Punch and Judy man and a talker for sideshow, return aerial act for big show, and concert people. Address King & Franklin, 11 West Eighth Street, Cincinnati, Ohio. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 285.
    1890: "Punch" Irving has temporarily closed his engagement with the King & Franklin Circus, owing to the serious illness of his wife, at their home, Haverhill, Mass. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 294.
    1890: Hugh C. Whiting, Harry Harrison and May Waldon joined the King & Franklin Show . . . New York Clipper, July 26, 1890, p. 307.
    1890: The King & Franklin Show, which has had a fairly successful tour so far, will probably know a new name in the near future. . . . New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 323.
    1890: Lillian Irving, wife of Geo.(?) M. Irving, died at Haverhill, Mass., July __, aged twenty-six years and five months. The deceased had, for the past three seasons, traveled with her husband with different circuses, having had to close about six weeks ago with the King & Franklin Show, on account of malarial fever. She was well taken care of to the last by her husband and mother. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 343.
    1890: Wanted, 3 Brother act who leap and tumble, also good talker for sideshow and concert, long season. King & Franklin, Chattanooga, Tenn. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 383.
    1890: King & Franklin Circus notes. Although rather early for the Southern season, business the past three weeks has been far beyond anything expected by the management. At Memphis we gave four performances to "Standing Room Only," and hundreds of people were turned away. The show made an instantaneous hit from first to last, and the hippodrome races were received with deafening cheers. Carl Clair's Military Band received much praise for their overtures. Sameul Albright, saxophonist, was offered a position in Liberati's Military Band, who were playing a week's engagement at Memphis at the time. He joined them at Little Rock, Ark., Aug. 31. However, he has been re-engaged by Carl Clair for next season. Robt. Hodge has also closed to accept a position at San Antonio, Tex. . . . Fred Aymar, Frank Delaney and La Rue Bros. have joined to fill vacancies. . . . The show at present is much the largest and strongest that K. & F. have ever taken through the South, carrying two brass bands, sixty-five head of fine stock and is all about one hundred and twenty people. From the present outlook ahead the usual good "big" is expected, and a long and thorough tour of the Southern states will be made. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 420.
    1890: Wanted, people for hippodrome, ___ do turn in big show or concert; also sideshow ___, musicians for band No. 2. Hotels, Pullman sleeper. Long season. Salary weekly. King & Franklin, Stanton House, Chattanooga, Tenn. New York Clipper, September 27, 1890, 463.
    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: Tony Ryder joined the King & Franklin Show at Savannah, Ga., last week, to work with his old partner, Hugh Whiting, in their aerial and triple bar acts. Mrs. Rider, meanwhile, is visiting her parents at Louisville, Ky. New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 523.
    1890: Atlanta, Georgia. King & Franklin's Circus comes 11(?). . . . New York Clipper, November 8, 1890, 547.
    1890: The King & Franklin Show closed Nov. 11 at Atlanta, Ga., and will winter at Chattanooga, Tenn. Their season has, from reports received, been, as usual, very successful. New York Clipper, November 22, 1890, 581.

    1891: Wanted for the King & Franklin Show, people in all branches of the circus business. 50 ladies for ballet, return aerial act, a good circus band, sideshow people, including good talker, four and six horse drivers. Address W. E. Franklin, Chattanooga, Tenn. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 717.
    1891: W. E. Franklin, manager of the King & Franklin Shows, is at Chattanooga, Tenn., where his show is at the foot of Lookout Mountain. Many new features will be added to the programme this season . . . New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
    1891: Wanted, 20 musicians for Carl Clair's Military Band with King & Franklin's Shows, for band No. 2. Want to hear from people on all instruments who can play brass and do turn in concert or big show. P. S. Frank Farrell, write. Address, Carl Clair, Kennedy House, Chattanooga, Tenn. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 764.
    1891: People thus far engaged for King & Franklin's Circus: John Hamilton, manager; Prof. Andy Showers, Hughs and Kramer, La Van and Lamar, the Aldens, the LaRue Bros., Al. Millette, Harry Harrison, Herbert Freed, Chas. Orville, Louis De Bonaire [sic], Harry Leon, . . . Emma Maynard, Sadie Norwood, Mollie Kagen(?), Mr. and Mrs. Mack, . . . Clarence Boyd, Charlie Mack, Willie Fox and Carl Clair's band and orchestra. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 795.
    1891: Albert Millette, equilibrist, has signed with King & Franklin's Show for next season. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
    1891: Carl Clair's Military Band of eighteen pieces will be one of the principal features with the King & Franklin Circus the coming season, making their sixth season with this company. The band will include a well known lady cornet soloist, and the following musicians: . . . Frank Krowe . . . Harry Blair . . . Samuel Albright . . . Frank Farrell, Herbert Freed, I.(?) N. Langley, Geo Tipton, Robt. Anderson, E. T. Anderson . . . New York Clipper, March 21, 1891, p. 22.
    1891: Dick(?) Alden's Living Statuary will be one of the features of King & Franklin's Circus this season. New York Clipper, March 21, 1891, p. 22.
    1891: Little Tille Showers, who is said to be the smallest and youngest living female contortionist, will be a special feature of the King & Franklin Circus the coming season. For the past year she has been under the careful instruction of her father, Prof. Andy Showers, and has accomplished a fine act. This will be her first season before the public. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 59.
    1891: Birmingtham, Alabama. J. McMurry joined the King & Franklin Circus at Chattanooga, Tenn. March 2?. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
    1891: Birmingham, Alabama. King & Franklin's Circus, 20, 21. T. F. Fanning's, 23(?). New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 118.
    1891: On the road, circuses: King & Franklin's, Flint, Mich. May 27. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    1891: Roster of King & Franklin's advance: . . . John Irwin, agent in charge of car No. 2 . . . Frank Purcell, Sheldon McMurry, Frank Johnson, Harry Fisher, Fred Clay, William Warner, Lee C. Maxey . . . Lew Wallace . . . and John Gluck. vJune 20, 1891, p. 249.
    1891: Des Moines, Iowa. Harris' Nickle Plate Circus came June 16(?); King & Franklin's Circus is due 19(?). New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 276.
    1891: On the road, circuses: King & Franklin's, Lincoln, Neb. July 2. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
    1891: The first advertising car and the first circus billboards ever in the Black Hills were recently introduced by King & Franklin's Show, which will exhibit at all the principal cities in the Hills. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
    1891: On the road, circuses: King & Franklin's, . . . Oskaloosa, Ia. 17. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
    1891: Prof. Andy Showers, equestrian director of King & Franklin's Circus, has purchased a fine thoroughbred, pure white Arabian stallion, and is training him for a trick and menage horse. Prof. Showers proudly asserts that he will be one of the most valuable animals that has ever tred the tanbark. Frank Crane(?), musician, closed . . . Fred Bates has signed to fill the vacancy. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
    1891: Wanted, for the King & Franklin Show, a good chandelier man and four and six horse drivers. Tom Brown, write. Address W. E. Franklin, Davis House, Richmond, Va. New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 446.
    1891: Richmond, Virginia. King & Franklin's Circus come 15, 16. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 470.
    1891: Wanted, all day sideshow talker to join at once. King & Franklin, Atlanta, Ga. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 512.
    1891: Atlanta, Georgia. C. C.(?) Wilson and Max Hass, agents for Rentz & Co., were arrested at Marietta, Ga., ?, on a warrant sworn out by J. P.(?) Fagan, agent for King & Franklin's Circus. They are charged with criminal libel in a paper running down K & F's Show. They were commited to jail in default for $__ each. The advertising ___ of Rentz's has been attached by Mr. Fagan, who wants $1,000(?) damages. New York Clipper, October 17, 1891, p. 536.
    1891: Double drummer wanted quick for King & Franklin's Circus. Write or wire Carl Clair, Rome, Ga. Oct. 18 and 19. New York Clipper, October 17, 1891, p. 549.
    1891: The La Rue Bros. are still with King & Franklin's Circus. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 569.
    1891: For sale at public auction, Louisville, Ky., on Monday, Dec. 14, the King & Franklin Show consisting of sleeping cars, stock cars, flat cars and advertising car, band and baggage wagons, horses, ponies, mules, etc., canvases, seats, lights and all property connected with the above show. Address W. E. Franklin, Galt(Calt?) House, Louisville, Ky. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 643.
    1891: The King & Franklin Circus closes the season at Jacksonville, Fla., Nov. 30(?). The advance brigade closed __. J. P. Fagan, general agent, goes home to Seymour, Ind., for the winter. John Erwin, in carge of the cars, goes to Cincinnati, O.; Frank Purcell, to Cincinnati . . . S. McMurry, to Birmingham, Ala. . . . J. M. Johnson, to Louisville; G. Slivers, to Cincinnati . . . and Al. Worlan to Columbus, O. New York Clipper, December 5, 1891, p. 649.
    1891: W. E. Franklin, for many years one of the proprietors of King & Franklin's Circus, has been engaged as general railroad contractor and excursion agent with the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth for the season of 1891-2. Mr. Franklin's well known abilities and general acquaintance with the leading railroad officials of the country make him a valuable addition to the already large advance force of these(?) shows. New York Clipper, December 5, 1891, p. 649.

    1892: The famous King & Franklin Circus Band, at liberty for the season of 1892. Carl Clair, bandmaster. Six years with King & Franklin's Circus. Address Carl Clair, care Ocala House, Ocala, Fla. New York Clipper, January 9, 1892, p. 738.
    1892: For sale, entire circus outfit, baggage wagons, canvases, seats, lights, wardrobe complete, poles and stakes, sideshow, trick horses and mules, advertising material, etc. Address W. E. Franklin, Empire Printing Co., Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 47.

    1893: W. E. Franklin is rusticating at West Baden Springs, Ind. After two weeks of much needed rest he says he will be able to do battle with the enemy. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.

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Kirker & Darley - 1892

    Wanted, for Kirker, Horner & Darley's New Empire Shows, the most perfectly equipped wagon show ever organized, an animal act, either dogs, donkeys or ponies. Also concert people and lady for outside ascension. Housaburo(?) Sam, write. Want to buy 10 band uniforms, 10 entry ??? and trappings for horses. Also sideshow paintings. Address Kirker, Horner & Darley, New Castle, Pa. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 12.
    1892: Roster of Kirker & Darley's New Empire Shows. Kirker & Darley, sole proprietors; Wm. J. Kirker, manager; Will W. Darley, treasurer . . . Sam J. Horner, equestrian director; Joseph Loving, boss billposter, with six assistants; Chas. McGreary, lithographer; Harry Jefferys, programmer . . . John Sergeant, boss hostler, with nine assistants . . . Gordan Bros., master of candy stands; Doc Woods, assistant; Prof. Lueck's silver cornet band of ten pieces . . . Sam J. Horner, Hines and Colby, Will Fowler . . . John A. Wright, Clyde Southern . . . Fanny Fowler . . . Lottie Kirker. . . The sideshow consists of Prof. Kirker, magician; two illusions, Slachell(Stachell?), electric wonder; Spotted Family and Darley's revision of old time Punch and Judy. The show opens at New Castle, Pa., May 7. We travel by wagon, using ___-eight head of stock, including eight white stallions, two advance wagons, one band wagon, one ticket wagon, two carryalls and ten baggage wagons. . . . Everything is brand new. The wagons are all being painted vermillion, decorated with gold leaf. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 98.

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Kirkhart's - 1893-95; Kirkhart & Ryan - 1896

    1893: Roster of W. F. Kirkhart's Railroad Shows: W. F. Kirkhart, sole owner and manager; S. A. Kirkhart, contracting agent; C. W. Ward, boss bill poster with five assistants; A. S. Kirkhart, treasurer; Prof. A. E. Lo?e, bandmaster with fifteen men; Ed. Weath, superintendent of canvas with Bert Mann . . . Charley Griffen, W. Squires, E. Anderson . . . and Frank Taylor, assistants; . . . Myers Family, four in number . . . King Ziemer, wire and flying trapeze . . . Mrs. W. F. Kirhart, with her troupe of dogs and goats; James Myers' Spanish web act; Little Dot, juggling act . . . W. A. Walden, singling and talking clown . . . Col. Griffen, heavy weight lifter . . . G. W. Richardson, as the Dutch farmer; Mme. Lee, snake charmer . . . W. E. Stout, Punch and magic; Prof. E. Myers, strong man. . . . They carry three cars. Business reported good. They opened at Lacoma, Ia. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
    1893: Notes from the only World's Fair Circus. W. F. Kirkhart's Circus, at the Captive Balloon Park, World's Columbian Exposition, is the only tented amusement concession allowed upon the grounds. The show lot occupies fully one acre of valuable space, and here a continuous circus performance is given, with the usual accompaniment of a full brass band and an elegant orchestra. In addition to the ring and midair performances and elevated stage is brought into requisition, while the madcap foolery of many clowns add a merry circus mirth to the scene. Outside attractions pre??ding the circus performance are also pressed into service, and by special permit a mammoth circus billboard glorifies the main entrance. Business here is something immense, and corresponds in its smaller way to the boom the World's Fair itself is enjoying. Another success of Mr. Kirkhart's is the Brazilian Concert Hall, which is a next door neighbor to our dome of canvas, and continually crowded. Mr. Kirkhart opens his regular circus season early next Spring at Lacona, Ia., and the full roster of his present company is as follows: Bell Brothers (Pete and Harry), George Thompson, Frank Oakley, Mlle. Maretta, Harry Wilson, Eddie Dell(?), Little(?) Alda, contortionist . . . Dick Ritchie, S?ackey, equestrian director; Little Antoinette, Theodore F. Barretta, Mlle. Minnetta and O. H. Kurtz. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 561.
    1893: Notice to circus people from W. F. Kirkhart. I desire to rectify an unreasonable statement sent to the Clipper by the Edgerton Sisters in regard to a circus they imagined they were running. I see they make the statement that they have a circus at the Fair. These people opened with my show here and two days after they were closed, and in no way are they connected with my circus here or ever have been. The following are the people who are with my show and were at the time the Edgertons closed: Geo. Thompson, Frank Oakley, Mrs. Marretta, Harry Wilson, Bell Bros. (Pete and Harry), Eddie Dell, Slackey, Little Olda (contortionist), Manulita(?) (Spanish dancer), Little Antoinette, Theo. F. Barretta (clown), Mlle. Minnetta (iron jawed lady), ?. H. Kurtz, Dick Ritchie. W. F. Kirkhart, Prop'r. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 568.
    1893: Circus property wanted, suitable for wagon show circus. Property of all kinds, wagons, harness, trained ponies, dogs, goats and monkeys, band suits and wardrobe. Address W. F. Kirkhart, Lacona, Ia. New York Clipper, December 2, 1893, p. 634.

    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. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
    1894: Notes from W. F. Kirkhart's Great American Circus. Everything is on the ___ at the winter quarters, and a fine show is promised for the coming season. Everything is new. The main top will be 100ft., with two ??ft. middle pieces. Sixty head of horses will pull the show, and the street parade will be a feature. The show takes the road early in May . . . New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 801.
    1894: Wanted, for W. F. Kirkhart's Great American Circus, Museum and Wild West Shows, performers in all branches of the business, a strong female act, leapers, tumblers, acrobats, rope dancers, impaling act, singing and talking clown, cowboys, Indians, rifle shots(?). Also sideshow and concert pepole, boss canvas man, property, seat and chandelier men, 4, 6, and 8 horse drivers, musicians for band and orchestra, agent to take charge of the advance. If you expect an engagement with the only World Fair Circus make your salary to suit the times. Sideshow and candy stants to rent. Address W. F. Kirkhart, Lacona, Ia. P.S. Will buy small troupe of dogs. . . . New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 812.
    1894: Notes from W. F. Kirkhart's Great American Circus, Museum and Wild West Shows. The show has changed the place for the opening day and will open in Des Moines, Ia., for three days early in May. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 87.
    1894: Wanted, for W. F. Kirkhart's Great American circus, Museum and Wild West Shows, a few more musicians, a leader, E cornet, double first violin; B cornet, tuba and ___ trombone; also talking and singing clown, to double on snare drum. Address W. F. Kirkhart, Lacona, Ia. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 94.
    1894: Call. All people engaged for season of 1894 with W. F. Kirkhart's Great American Circus, Museum and Wild West Shows, report at Lacona, Ia., May 8(?). Would like to hear from a good rifle shot and a few all 'round performers. Address W. F. Kirkhart, Lacona, Ia. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 128.
    1894: Notes from the W. F. Kirkhart Great American Circus. We don't lay any claims to having the largest show on earth, but we do claim to have everything new. . . . We carry fifty head of as fine stock as could be seen with any show, with twenty-___ wagons, besides three advance wagons. J. Andrews is agent and contractor with six assistants, first advance; H.(?) Haravey, who handles the daily programme with four assistants, conduct the second advance; and L. B. Kendall(?), programmer with two assistants, is in charge of the third advance. Roster: W. F. Kirkhart, sole owner and manager; A. S. Kirkhart, treasurer; George Ries(?) equestrian director; J. F. Kirkhart, steward; George Day(?), boss canvasman with sixteen assistants; S. A. Kirkhart, boss hostler with twelve assistants; Joe Bullinger(?), musical director with eleven musicians . . . Tom Fuller, boss property man with three assistants . . . and Charley Calhoun, cook with two assistants. Performers: . . . Charles Whiting, Sam Golden . . . Royers Family, four in number . . . Lottie West, Miller and Fay, Buckskin Bill, Montana George . . . The annex is managed by C.(?) E.(?) Jordan, with ten people. We open our season May 14(?) at Lacona, Iowa. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.
    1894: W. F. Kirkhart's Great American circus is billed for Rock Valley July 21. They are said to be comprised wholly of faikers and other confidence people and it would be as well to give them a wide berth and unchain the faithful house dog. Register (Rock Valley, IA), July 6, 1894.
    1894: The Kirkhart show which gave an exhibition here last Saturday was rather on the bum order. It was at The Register prediced in its last issue. They advertised a wild west show as a free exhibition and other marvelous feats would be performed on horseback. They did not even have a horse ring in the circus. The actors and helpers were an uncouth lot of dagoes and made themselves very obnoxious around the hotel and elsewhere. One of them called at The Register office and desired the editor to apologize for saying they were a snide. He did not receive what he called for. The proprietor also was a caller and was bery gentlemanly in conversation and appearance and insisted on our taking half a dozen complimentary tickets which were declined with thanks. The Register is not to be bought for a few complimentary tickets and will not sell its advertising space for half price. Hereafter all traveling shows will pay the regulation rates are [sic] not receive any notices in this paper. Register (Rock Valley, IA), July 27, 1894.
    1894: Mr. Roy Emms, having filled his summer engagement with the Kirkhart Circus Co., returned to Perry on Thursday of last week. Roy will remain only for a short time before joining out again for the winter season. Bulletin (Perry, IA), August 18, 1894.
    1894: W. F. Kirkhart of Kirkhart's Circus, visited in the city, yesterday, with R. M. Harvey. It is probable that this circus will organize and will open the season of 1895, in this city. Chief (Perry, IA), October 5, 1894.
    1894: The W. F. Kirkhart Great American 25 cent Railroad Shows will be in Perry Thursday and Friday, May 2nd and 3rd. Like all other shows this circus only stops one day in such places as Boone, Marshalltown, etc., but this being its opening and place of organization, it is customary to remain two days. The performance lasts two hours and a half. . . . The fine Military Band of 20 solo artists will give a concert preceeding each performance. Excursion rates have been made by the Rock Island and Milwaukee roads, and the indications are that there will be an immense crowd on those days. Full particulars in next week's Bulletin. Bulletin (Perry, IA), April 17, 1894.

    1895: The W. F. Kirkhart 25 cent railroad circus that is to be exhibited in Waterloo June 25 is an Iowa show, being conducted by representative business men of Des Moines and Perry, and comes well recommended as being strictly moral and first class in every way. Waterloo Daily Courier (Waterloo, IA), June 14, 1895, p. 8.
    1895: Herr Drayton, the cannon ball juggler, is one of the strong features of the Kirkhart circus. Master Ervine Dorr, the 5 year old rider does a wonderful act. The troupe of ponies are the finest in the business. A 50 cent performance for 25 cents, June 25. Waterloo Daily Courier (Waterloo, IA), June 17, 1895, p. 5.
    1895: W. E. [sic] Kirkhart's Circus will pitch their tents in our city on the 26th. Kirkhart's 25 cent circus as showed here last Thursday, was a fine show, and gave universal satisfaction. There was one noticeble feature and that was they were free from "skin" games or fakirs of any kind, and were as pleasant and gentlemanly a set of men as we have ever met. Their performance was first class and their "traps" and accouterments would do credit to any larger show. Master Ernie Dorr the 5 year old rider, is a perfect little wonder. "Cretos" balancing on the high trapeze and Lozelle Bros. on the horizontal bars as the finest ever seen in Boone. Herr Drayton does a most wonderful act with cannon balls. The Gyess in their new sensational act made a great hit, in fact each and every act was worthy of special mention. Boone Iowa, Advocate. Semi-Weekly Gazette (Cedar Rapids, IA), Tuesday, June 18, 1895, n.p.n.
    1895: The W. F. Kirkhart 25c circus carry a band of 20 pieces and give a concert of one-half hour before the show. Kid Kendall, the world's famous baritone soloist, is with this show. Waterloo Daily Courier, June 19, 1895,p. 7.
    1895: The W. F. Kirkhart circus that comes here June 25, does not claim to be the largest show on the road, but it claims to be the neatest, cleanest and best 25 cent show in America. They have no red wagons to put in a parade, but give their show under canvas. Iowa State Reporter (Waterloo, IA), June 20, 1895, n.p.n.
    1895: W. F. Kirkhart's circus, which showed in our city last Wednesday, . . . Herr Drayton . . . handled fifty pound cannon balls as easily as a pitcher would a base ball. The acting on the horizontal bars was the finest we have ever seen . . . the slack wire walker, ladder balancing act, trained dogs and other acts too numerous to mention all went to make up a first-class exhibition. Mr. Kirkhart said they would show in this city next season and expected to have several cages of animals. They drew a large crowd both afternoon and evening. John Jeffers has accepted an offer to travel with the Kirkhart circus and left with them last Wednesday night. "Hunk" Thomas was also hired by Mr. Kirkhart to pose in the sideshow as a giant. "Fatty" Beeson and Al. Wescott also joined the organization as canvas men. Semi-Weekly Gazette (Cedar Falls, IA), Friday, June 28, 1895, n.p.n.
    1895: W. F. Kirkhart and R. M. Harvey, the proprietors and managers of the W. F. Kirkhart's 25c Circus, are both business men of Des Moines and Perry, Iowa. W. F. Kirkhart's great American 25c R. R. Circus, that exhibits in Emmetsburg July 19, is the same show that was here last August and gave such a nice, clean show. Emmetsburg Democrat (Emmetsburg, IA), Wednesday, July 17, 1895, n.p.n.
    1895: The Kirkhart circus, which was in Emmetsburg Friday, . . . The band, under the direction of Prof. A. P. Rainsburg . . . Emmetsburg Democrat (Emmetsburg, IA), Wednesday, July 24, 1895, n.p.n.

    1896: The City. Chattel Mortgage. W. F. Kirkhart to L. D. Gamble, for $295.47 on his circus outfit. Daily Iowa Capital (Des Moines, IA), Monday, April 20, 1896, p. 5.
    1896: W. F. Kirkhart, of circus fame, has consolidated his circus with Ryan's Great Eastern Shows, and the two thus combined makes the strongest and best popular priced exhibition on the road. Last year the Kirkhart show gave a first class performance, and their agent, Mr. Benton, informs us that the show is new in all departments for the season of '96 . . . in Perry on May 12. . . . Among the notable stars of Kirkhart & Ryan's Great American 25c Rail Road Circus, are Samuel Burt, the famous Skerbeck family, 6 in number; the great Lazell Bros.; Jim Black, the legless wonder; Manda & Clara, the india rubber girls; the Mogne Bros.; the Alpine trio . . . [There is an ad on this page] Perry Bulletin (Perry, IA), April 30, 1896, n.p.n.
    1896: . . . Des Moines . . . Five new cars have been purchased for the accommodation of the big show while on the road. During all of next week this big amusement place will give performance at the corner of Fourth and Grand avenue and the fact that they carry with them 110 people . . . no gamblers or grafters . . . remarkable balancer, Samuel Burt, . . . was a great attraction for three weeks with the Ringling Bros. show in Chicago. This man does some really wonderful and mysterious work up the ladder . . . the wonderful Skerbeck family, composed of eight of the finest aerialists . . . Kirkhart & Ryan which opens its season with a week's engagement, commencing Monday . . . Admission, 20 cents, children, 10 cents. Des Moines Daily News (Des Moines, IA), Saturday, May 2, 1896, p. 4.
    1896: Kirkhart & Ryan's big shows opened the season . . . in Des Moines . . . A street parade at noon today drew a large crowd to the tent for the afternoon performance. . . . Des Moines Daily News (Des Moines, IA), Monday, May 4, 1896, p. 3.
    1896: Kirkhart and Ryan's big one ring circus . . . The Slebel brothers are unequalled and supreme in their starling gound tumbling acts . . . Cereton(?), greatest living contortionist and Millie Montrose, undisputed queen of the air. . . . Des Moines Daily News (Des Moines, IA), Wednesday, May 6, 1896, p. 1.
    1896: The Kirkhart & Ryan Circus company gave some good entertainments yesterday afternoon and evening in this city. Cedar Rapids Evening Gazette, Saturday, May 16, 1896, p. 2.
    1896: Kirkhart and Ryan's circus was attached at Perry on a $2,000 claim, and it is uncertain whether it will get out of its troubles and continue its curcuit [sic]. The attachment was levied by a Des Moines bank which had advanced it money. The circus has been sold to Conrad Paul of Des Moines, who expects to get it on its feet. Gazette (Cedar Falls, IA), May 19, 1896, n.p.n.
    1896: People expected to see a lively legal tilt when the attachment case of Wallace against Kirkhart & Ryan came up. But they were disappointed. Conrad Paul, who claims to own the outfit, came up Tuesday with his attorney and secured a dissolution of the attachment on the ground that Kirkhart was a resident of Polk county, and therefore the officers of Dallas county were without jurisdiction. Perry Bulletin (Perry, IA), May 21, 1896, p. 1.
    1896: On account of the washout on the Milwaukee Kirkhart & Ryan's circus was forced to lay over in Dubuque, arriving here at an early hour this morning. They have decided to show here this afternoon and evening, as announced elsewhere. Dubuque Herald (Dubuque, IA), Tuesday, May 26, 1896, p. 8.
    1896: Late news from Dubuque. Dubuque, May 27. . . . Passengers from North McGregor state that the bodies . . . of six canvasmen attached to Kirkhart & Ryan's circus. The canvasmen had been at South McGregor, and as everything connected with the circus had been made ready for the going of the company to Winona, six men went up to North McGregor and entered a box car and they were caught there when the storm came. . . . Kirkhart & Ryan are here from McGregor. They have no record giving the names or addresses of thier six canvasmen drowned at North McGregor, and their identity will probably never be known. Fifteen minutes delay in switching a train is all that saved the circus outfit and sixty people with it from destruction. Davenport Leader (Davenport, IA), Wednesday, May 27, 1896, p. 1.
    1896: Kirkhart & Ryan's circus . . . There are seventy-five persons connected with the show and they use a special train. . . . Several gentlemen connected with the circus, among whom are J. E. Black, the press agent, and Mr. Sherman, representing Hamlin's Wizard Oil . . . Dubuque Herald (Dubuque, IA), Wednesday, May 27, 1896, p. 8.
    1896: Among the many unfortunates in the recent storm near McGregor, were seven of the canvasmen connected with the Kirkhart & Ryan Circus. The storm caused considerable damage to the show, but the loss was immediately made good, and the circus has not lost a day, but is showing to good audiences through northern Iowa at the present time. The bodies of the canvasmen were recovered and properly taken care of by the managers of the show. Semi-Weekly Gazette (Cedar Falls, IA), Friday, May 29, 1896, n.p.n.
    1896: People who attended the circus last night . . . given an entertainment that equalled many exhibitions . . . Mr. Frank Kirkhart, the manager, has personal control . . . It is an old-fashioned circus . . . Marshalltown Times. Semi-Weekly Gazette (Cedar Falls, IA), June 5, 1896, p. 1.
    1896: Kirkhart & Ryan's circus is at Cedar Falls, Tuesday, June 16, the same day Ringling Bros. visit Waterloo. Iowa State Reporter (Waterloo, IA), June 12, 1896, n.p.n.
    1896: The bill board war among the circus men will soon be given new life by the arrival of the advance guard of two aggreations in addition to those already announced. The Blackman & Mackey show will be here June 17 and Kirkhart & Ryan on the 25th. This will give Waterloo three shows within ten days. Waterloo Daily Courier (Waterloo, IA), June 12, 1896, p. 5.
    1896: The Kirkhart & Ryan show changed their route and will probably not pitch their canvas in Waterloo. The Blackman & Mackey circus will also give us the go by. Waterloo Daily Courier (Waterloo, IA), June 17, 1896, p. 8.
    1896: Waterloo is at present enjoying the luxury of a real circus war. Boards have been erected and bills posted for Ringling Bros., June 16, Kirkhart & Ryan, June 17, Blackman & Mackey, June 25, and Buffalo Bill's, September 27. Two of the aggregations have been billing heavily, and the competition culminated in the destruction of about 400 feet of Buffalo Bills' boards. Arrests will follow. Hull Index (Hull, IA), June 19, 1896, n.p.n.
    1896: [Advertisement] Austin, Friday, June 26, wait for the World's greatest 25c Railroad Circus, Museum and Wild West Shows. Kirkhart & Ryan's Great American Circus. Parade led by our famous band at 12:30. Daily Herald (Austin, MN), June 19, 1896, n.p.n.
    1896: Manistique, Mich., Aug. 8. The steamer Stewart, with Kirkhart & Ryan's circus on board, went ashore on Wiggin's reef. The south sea has raised a heavy sea and the big waves are going over the stranded boat. Sunday Advocate (Newark, OH), August 9, 1896, p. 1.
    1896: Cleveland, Aug. 8. A special from Manistique, Mich., says: "The steamer Stewart, with Kirkhart & Ryan's circus on board, went ashore on Wiggin's reef. The south sea has raised a heavy sea and the big waves are going over the steamer." The circus was bound for Escanaba, where it was to open Monday. The steamer is in a dangerous place and will be a bad wreck. Manitoba Morning Free Press (Winnipeg, Manitoba), Monday, August 10, 1896, p. 6.

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Kuhn Circus - 1936

    Owner Eddie Kuhn's truck show opened at Argentine, Kansas and folded on July 7, in South Dakota. Dud Lawrence, agent; Slim Brown, Bobby Brown, billing; Bill Snyder, equestrian director; Dutch LaBlair, concessions; Jerry Kerns, bannerman, legal adjuster. Performers were Jack Moore, Clara Moore (Moore Duo), tight wire; Freda La Velda, contortion, trapeze; Ted La Velda, contortion, balancing; Tommy Hayden, clown; Jack Rogers, clown. Doc Ford, sideshow performer; Borghild Ford, aerial, sideshow performer; Russell Hall, animal acts. Tiger Bill's family had the concert with trick roping, whips. Circus Report, December 11, 1972, pp. 5, 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.

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Lake, Raymond & Co. - 1890

    Wanted, for Lake, Raymond & Co.'s Circus, Menagerie, Museum & Balloon Show, performers in all branches of the circus business, riders with or without their own stock; also band and orchestra. Sideshow and candy stand for sale. Geo. W. Richards, manager, ___ Third Street, Louisville, Ky. New York Clipper, July 26, 1890, p. 320.
    Owensboro, Kentucky. Lake, Raymond & Co.'s Circus came 15, 16, on one day's advance advertising and gave good performance to fair crowds. The show is traveling South by boat. New York Clipper, September 27, 1890.

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Langstaff's - 1892

    On the road, circuses: Langstaff's, Clayton IN Sep 21, Plainfield 22, West Newton 23, Greenwood 24, Acton 26, Fountaintown 27, Charlotsville 28, Willow Branch 29, Kennard 30. New York Clipper, September 24, 1892, p. 461.
    On the road, circuses: Langstaffs, Charlotteville IN Sep 28, Willow Branch 29 . . . New York Clipper, October 1, 1892, p. 473.

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La Pearl's - 1891-94

    1891: Wanted, circus people in all branches to do two or more good turns, or double in brass. Good leader and musicians that double. Want trick mule and pony acts. Stand privilege for rent. . . . Permanent address J. H. La Pearl, Vandalia, Ill. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 124.
    1891: Wanted, circus people. A few more good ___ that do two or more strong turns. State if you can double on drums. Address Manager of Big American Circus, Vandalia, Ill. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 162.
    1891: Wanted, for La Pearl's Big American Show and Congress of Novelties, a few more people in all branches of circus and concert business. Address as per route or permanent address, Vandalia, Ill. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 224.
    1891: Wanted, for La Pearl's Big American 10 and 20 Cent Circus. A good contortionist, talking and singing clown, a song and dance team and other people who do two or more good turns; also want clarionettist and other good musicians. Write per route of wire quick, Olena, ill. June 19(?) and 20(?), Newton 22 and __. Permanent address, Vandalia, Ill. New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 261.
    1891: Roster of La Pearl's Twenty-Five Cent Shows. J. H. La Pearl, sole proprietor; W. ?. Jones, equestrian director . . . Ryan and Melville, the Hoddy Bros., the La Pearl Family, Mrs. A. C. Hoddy . . . Signor Parento . . . Burt Fisher, Mrs. Harry La Pearl . . . Prof. W. R. Jones and his wife, R. H. Clair, H. Vandercook, Claude Ross(Rosa?), George Parker . . . Fred Johnson, George Ferguson, F.(?) E. Branson, Charles Poorman, M. Kelly . . . The show is touring Illinois. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.

    1892: H. A. Vandercook(?), leader of LaPearl's Circus band, has located at Pana, Ill., for the winter. New York Clipper, January 2, 1892, p. 715.
    1892: Wanted, circus people and musicians for La Pearl's 10 and 20c Circus. Must be first class and sober; also good dressers in ring and on street. I want people that spend a portion of their salary for clothes. Want good advance man. On the road five months last season and not one person left the show without every cent of salary. We travel by rail and stop at hotels. I have for sale band wagon and eight band coats and caps, horse tent and troughs for twenty four horses, cook tent with cooking utensils, 30ft. dressing top, cheap. Permanent address J. H. La Pearl, Vandalia, Ill. New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 770.
    1892: People who are signed up to date with La Pearl's Ten and Twenty Cent Railroad Show: . . . C. W. Compton, advance; B. R. Craycroft, assistant; Prof. Hale Vandercook, leader of band, with the follwoing men: Fred Jackson, ?. O. Warrell, John Brouse, Carl Brouse . . . J. E. Goslin, Geo. T. Parker, Chas. Hacker, C.(?) K. Leslie, J. E. Smith, Floyd Trover . . . Eddie McDonald, Geo. Parento, Howard Beall . . . Louis St. Clair, wife and daughter, Rosy(?) Carman, Smith Bros. . . . and the La Pearl children. They open at Vandalia, Ill. May 7(?), travel in their own car and use an 80(?)ft. round top, with two 30(?)ft. middle pieces. New York Clipper, March 5, 1892, p. 859.
    1892: Trover, Vannerson and McDonald, gymnasts, have signed with J. H. La Pearl's Show. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
    1892: . . . La Pearl's Big Railroad Shows. The season opens May 7(?), at Vandalia, Ill., with about fifty people in all, carrying their own cars. They will have a one hundred foot round top, with two thirty foot middle pieces. The organization will, it is said, be very complete. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
    1892: Everything is in shape around the La Pearl Show winter quarters. Improvements are being made in every part of the properties, and elegant new special printing is received daily. Frank Apple, rope dancer, signed recently. They open May _, with the show twice its former size. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
    1892: W. H. Quinnett has signed with the La Pearl Show as clown and assistant business manager. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Vandalia IL May _, Mulberry Grove 9, Greenville 10, Highland 11, St. Jacobs 12, Troy 13, Collinsville 14. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
    1892: Want circus people for La Pearl's R. R. Show, carrying perch, brother act and dancing rope. Must do two or more turns. Show opens at Vandalia, Ill. May 5, 6 and 7. Managers take notice - C. W. Compton, Frank Appel and Geo. T. Parker disappointed without giving notice. Am glad to find this out in time. Want a few canvas men. Address J. H. La Pearl's Big American Show, Vandalia, Ill. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 143.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's Highland IL May 11, St. Jacobs 12, Troy 13, Collinsville 14, O'Fallen 16, Lebanon 17 . . . Nashville 21, Mt. Vernon 21. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
    1892: C. W. Compton writes that he was compelled to cancel his engagement as agent of the La Pearl Show, on account of sickness. He adds that he gave the customary notice. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
    1892: The La Pearl Show opened its season at Vandalia, Ill., May _, to excellent business. The show runs as smooth as a top. We carry a 90(?)ft. round top, with two __ft. middle pieces, travel by rail, and carry about forty-five people. Our band, under the leadership of Prof. Hale Vandercook, is a strong feature of the show and numbers fifteen pieces. The roster includes J. H. La Pearl, manager and proprietor . . . W. H. Quinette, equestrian director; Prof. H. A. Vandercook, leader of band with fifteen musicians; S. Smith, boss canvasman with ten assistants; B.(?) Curry, boss property man, with three assistants . . . W. P. Mathews . . . Ed McDonald, Frank Ross, Prof. La Pearl, Rosy(?) Carmen, Little Harry La Pearl, Little Roy, Mrs. J. H. La Pearl, Fred Jones, W. P.(?) Mathews, Fred Jackson, W. H. Quinette, Fred Jones, Lee Michaels, M. W. McQuigg and H. Windrop. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Trenton IL May 18, Mascontah 19, Nashville 20, Mt. Vernon 21, Centralia 23 . . . Edgewood 26, Flora 27, Salem 28. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 167.
    1892: B. R. Craycroft writes, denying that C. W. Crompton and Frank Apple failed, through illness, to join the La Pearl Show, and also that they gave the management the customary two weeks' notice. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 194.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Noble IL June 1, Olney 2, Sumner 3, Vincennes IN 4, Washington 6. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
    1892: Notes from La Pearl's Show. Our show is in its fourth week of prosperity since its opening at Vandalia, Ill. Everybody is happy, and the "man in white," comes as regular as Thursday does. A game of ball was played at Mt. Vernon, Ill., between the musicians and the members of the company, and was witnessed by several hundred people. The performers were badly beaten, and will have to "supper" the musicians as a forfeit. At Salem, Ill., W. H. Quinette, our equestrian director, was presented with an elegant pair of gold eye glasses, and appropriate speeches were made on both sides. The band has been lately strengthened by Grant Cutler, clarionettist, and other people Nat Comstock and wife are the latest additions to the ring people. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Princeton IN June 8, Mt. Carmel IL 9, Albion 10, Fairfield 12, Flora 13, Altamount 14, Cowden 15, Ramsey 16, Coffee? 17, Sorento 18. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
    1892: . . . Nat Comstock, wire walker, left the show on June 10. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
    1892: Trover, Vannerson(?) and McDonald are with the La Pearl Show. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Morrisonville IL June 29, Taylorville 30, July 1, Pana 2-4, Nokomis 5, Towey Hills 6, Shelbyville 7, 8. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
    1892: La Pearl's Circus, want a few acts to strengthen show. Applicants must do two or more acts, be good dressers in ring and on street. We stop at hotels, travel by rail and the man in white never fails to make his appearance Thursday of each week. Also want concert team who can play drum by note. J. H. La Pearl, proprietor . . . New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 271.
    1892: Roster of La Pearl's Railroad Circus. J. H. La Pearl, owner and manager; W. H. Quinnette, assistant manager; Walter Slaybaugh, treasurer; Dick Craycroft, advance, with three assistants . . . Kid Smith, chandeliers; P. N.(?) W. McQuigg, programmer; Prof. Vandercook's Military Band of twelve pieces as follow: Prof. Hale Vandercook, Jno. Lacombe, Chas Hacker . . . F. C. Fuller, Harry Hallon, Harry Dalton . . . Fred Jackson. Performers: La Pearl Family, five in number; W. H. Quinnette, Trover, Wannerson and McDonald, Tony F.(P.?) Loos . . . Frank, Chas. and Harry, William Mathews, Fred O. Jones and wife . . . This is their tenth week out. The first accident occurred June __, at Raymond, when a wind storm blew the top down, breaking the centre poles and demoralizing the middle pieces. There were a number of the company under the top when it fell, but, luckily, they escaped injury. The blow down occurred at ___ p.m., and willing hands went to work and had the top up for a night show, and opened the doors at the usual time to a crowded house. Floyd Trover was presented on his birthday, 1?, by manager La Pearl with a fine K. of P. charm. Trover, Vannerson and McDonald are making a hit with their triple bar act . . . The man in white makes his usual appearance, and the prospects are good for a long and profitable season. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 276.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, . . . Shelbyville, IL 7, 8, Windsor 9, Mattoon 11, Charleston 12, Neoga 13, Effingham 14, 15, Stewardson 16. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
    1892: La Pearl's Ten and Twenty Cent Railroad Show are playing through Illinois. Everybody is in good health. The season so far has been very good, and it is a settled fact that the show will go South this Fall. W. H. Quinnette, the clown, paid a flying visit to St. Louis July _. Wm. Mathews is practicing a new act. Our company number over fifty people, and blue paper is quite numerous. The Old Reliable reaches us every week and is a welcome visitor. Our mail man, Walter Shaybaugh, supplies the company. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Neoga IL July 13, Effingham 14, 15, Stewardson 16. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
    1892: The La Pearl Circus is still doing well in Illinois. This is their eleventh week out. . . . At Effingham, Ill., we meet Kickapoo Co. No. 1 with Dr. Campbell in charge. We are now on our last two day stand, and have nothing but one day dates for the balance of the season. We will work South, and close around the holidays. Will Mathews paid a flying visit home last week. The man in white makes his appearance regularly. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
    1892: Wanted, people for La Pearl's Circus to strengthen show. Must do two or more acts, male concert people to double on drums, and also trap drummer that reads music at sight. We eat and sleep at hotels, travel by railroad. Long season. Per route. No fares advanced. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 318.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Westfield IL July 27, Casey 28, Martinsville 29, Greenup 30, Toledo Aug 1, Newton 2 . . . Riverdale 5, Sullivan Ind. 6. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: Prof. Van's band is an attractive feature of the La Pearl Circus, and has received many complimentary notices of its efficiency. Musical director H. A. Vandercook states that he has no "fill ins," and that every man is a musician. In the band are C. Hacker, John Lacombe . . . ?. Brouse, J. Brouse, C. Leslie, E. Long, H. Dalton, F. Tuller, H. Hatton, J. E. Gosling, J. Corcoran and H. A. Vandercook. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 340.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Oblong IL Aug 3, Robinson 4, Sullivan IN 5, Switz City 6, Worthington 8, Clay City 9, Brazil 10, 11, Rosedale 12. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
    1892: Charles Albion asks us to state that he is the original of that name, and that he is not with the team of Albions now with the La Pearl Show. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 356.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Brazil IL Aug 10, 11, Rosedale 12, Rockville 13 . . . Crawforsville 16, Veedersburg 17, Oxford 18, Boswell 19. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 360.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Veedersburg IL Aug 17, Oxford 18, Boswell 19, Hoopeston 20 . . . Gibson City 23 . . . New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 376.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, . . . Ashland, IL Sep 1, Virginia 2, Jacksonville 3 . . . New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 409.
    1892: The Jennier Family joined La Pearl's Circus at Clinton, Ill., and report the show doing well and everybody happy. The band leader, Prof. Vandercook, has been confined to his bed for some time with brain fever, but is up and about again. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 422.
    1892: Notes from the La Pearl Show. Business with the La Pearl Show continues big. We are just back into Illinois from our Indiana dates, and are adding a new list of towns to our established route which prove to be winners. Geo. Jennier and family of four acrobats and aerial performers joined at Clinton, Ill. 25(?). Their acts are a feature of the show. Millie Marretta closed _ and went to St. Louis. Will F.(P.?) Conklin, cornortionist, joined Aug. 29. The show is being strengthened throughout for balance of season. At Virginia, 3, an elegant ring from the band, an handsome engraved solid silver cup and salver, and a solid gold watch chain from the performers were presented to our leader, Hale A. Vandercook, as birthday souvenirs. Appropriate speeches were made. The Albions, Frank, Chas. and Harry, are doing one of the strongest three high brother acts, and make the people howl in appreciation of their fine work. Our band of musicians, fifteen in number, continue to catch the public with classic and descriptive music. The man in white never fails to make his appearance on Thursdays with the show, and consequently all have plenty of the "long green," and are happy. New York Clipper, September 17, 1892, p. 438.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Litchfield IL Sep 14, Hillsboro 15, Fillmore 16, Vandalia 17. New York Clipper, September 17, 1892, p. 443.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Macon IL Sep 21 . . . Oakland 27, Paris 28, Terre Haute IN 29, 30 . . . New York Clipper, September 24, 1892, p. 461.
    1892: The La Pearl Show will close their season at Marshall, ___, Oct. 1, and go into winter quarters at Crawfordsville, Ind. New York Clipper, October 1, 1892, p. 472.
    1892: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Paris IL Sep 28, Terre Haute IN 29-31, Marshall IL(?) Oct 1, Crawfordsville IN 2, 3. New York Clipper, October 1, 1892, p. 473.
    1892: [Ad] La Pearl's Shows closed a most successful season of 22 weeks, at Marshall, Ill., to a packed tent. As usual, I never missed a salary day all season, and I defy anyone to prove that I owe a cent salary. Next season, will travel in our own cars, use a 90 with two 40ft. M. P., all brand new. I have located at Crawfordsville, Ind., where I have a ring barn and a fine gymnasium, with 30ft. ceiling. Circus people wishing to practice there can do so, free of charge. Would be pleased to hear from first class acts for '93. Address Crawfordsville, Ind. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 532.
    1892: The Asbeys have signed with the La Pearl Show for next season. They are practicing a new sword, knife and spear specialty. New York Clipper, November 19, 1892, p. 586.
    1892: Prof. H. A. Vandercook, band leader, has been engaged for next season with J. H. La Pearl's Show, making his third season with that organization. Mr. Vandercook is wintering at Crawfordsville, Ind. New York Clipper, December 17, 1892, p. 654.
    The La Pearl Show is undergoing repairs at its winter quarters, Crawfordsville, Ind. Some fine trained horses and ring stock have been purchased for next season. Among other people De Boe, the wire walker and head balancer, and the Cameos, aerialists, will spend the remainder of the winter season, after the holidays, in taking advantage of the elegantly equipped ring barn for practice. New York Clipper, December 17, 1892, p. 654.
    1892: La Pearl Show wants musicians, performers and trained animals. Also bar performers who do other turns. Also advance man, bill posters, property men. We stop at hotels. Want to lease or buy cars, if cheap. Musicians address Prof. H. A. Vandercook. All others to La Pearl, Crawfordsville, Indiana. A gymnasium free to circus people. New York Clipper, December 17, 1892, p. 668.

    1893: The Adairs have signed for the coming season with La Pearl's Circus. New York Clipper, January 7, 1893, p. 702.1893: The following people so far have signed with La Pearl's One Ring Railroad Show. Prof. Hale Vandercook, musical director, with fifteen men in the band, who will be featured, this making the third season for Prof. Vandercook with this show. Performers: Prof. Asbey and wife, the Adairs, Wm. De Roe, Flora De Boe, Millie Cerito, Ross(?) Carman . . . John F. Beers, James Whiting, Frank Aymar . . . George Parento, Prof. Ed. C. Long and his dog circus, the La Pearl Children, Little Harry and Roy. The show is wintering at Crawfordsville, Ind., and will open there about April 2?, using a new __ft. round top, with two 50(?)ft. middle pieces, and a new 40ft. round top dressing room. New York Clipper, February 4, 1893, p. 766.
    1893: W. R. Todd has signed as general agent with the J. H. La Pearl's Show. New York Clipper, February 11, 1893, p. 784.
    1893: James Whiting, horizontal bar performer, goes with the La Pearl Show next season. New York Clipper, February 18, 1893, p. 800.
    1893: Prof. Clarence Ashby and his wife, Eva Asbey, who have been wintering at Kalamazoo, Mich., have gone to the winter quarters of the La Pearl Show at Crawfordsville, Ind., where they are practising some new acts. Prof. Asbey has been engaged as equestrian director of the show. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 821.
    1893: The musicians so far engaged to compose the band with the La Pearl Show are: H. A. Vandercook, director . . . Charles Tinkham, R. ?. Brown, Bob Adair . . . Harry Loomis, Ed Long, I. C. King, Ed. Butler, Harry Blair and W. F. Conkling. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 821.
    1893: Wanted, for La Pearl Show, two more clarionets, B flat and _ flat. Address: H. A. Vandercook, Crawfordsville, Ind. Have for sale, a mermaid illusion and some small animals for side show. Want to buy small ponies and mules. Have candy stand to let. J. H. La Pearl, Crawfordsville, Ind. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 829.
    1893: Work is progressing rapidly at the winter quarters of the La Pearl Show preparatory to its opening April __. Ed. Long has the stock of ponies, monkeys and dogs under training, and they are doing fine work. The show will use special lithograph paper from one of the leading show printing houses. Everything around the show will be new for this season, and the roster is composed of some of the bright lights of the sawdust arena. New York Clipper, April 1, 1893, p. 50.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Chapin IL May 31, New Berlin June 1, Illiopolis 2 . . . Monticello 5 . . . Tuscola 8. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
    1893: The La Pearl Show report continued success through Illinois. Two new cars were added the past week, one stock and one sleeper. Everyone is well, happy and busily engaged in making money ??? in which to "tote" the "long green." The band in their daily concerts is meeting with success and fully sustaining their former reputation. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl, . . . Mt. Olive IL 26, Collinsville 27, Troy 28. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
    1893: La Pearl's Big Railroad Shows. Wanted, a few performers (especially ladies) to strengthen show for the enormous business we are doing. Never missed a salary day. Doc Parkhurst is boss canvas man, and can use men, for which here are fine sleeping and eating accommodations. Address as per route, J. H. La Pearl. I want musicians to strengthen band with above show, H. A.Vandercook. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 260.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, . . . Mulberry Grove IL July 1, Vandalia 3, 4 . . . New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 265.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Altamont IL July 5, Effingham 6, Martinsville 7, Marshall 8, Greenup 10, Newton 11, Olney 12, Sumner 13, Lawrenceville 14 . . . New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Olney IL July 12, Sumner 13, Lawrenceville 14, Robinson 15. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: La Pearl's R. R. Show, still doing a wonderful business. Never missed a salary day. Want a few acts, also musicians. Musicians address H. A. Vandercook, bandmaster. All others, J. H. La Pearl . . . Vincennes IN 18, Washington 19 . . . New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 310.
    1893: Business continues satisfactory with the La Pearl Show through Illinois. . . . Chas. Tinkham has left the show and returned to his home at Lafayette, Ind. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Washington IN July 19, 20, Petersburg 21, Oakland City 22, Princeton 24, Mt. Carmel IL 25, Albion 26, Fairfield 27, Mt. Vernon 28, Nashville 29 . New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 313.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl, Albion IL July 26, Fairfield 27, Mt. Vernon 28, Nashville 29 . . . Belleville Aug. 2, O'Fallon 3, Lebanon 4, Trenton 5. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 329.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl, Belleville IL Aug 2, Edwardsville 3, New Douglass 4 . . . Ramsey 7, Cowden 8 . . . Farina 10 . . . Neoga 12. vAugust 5, 1893, p. 347.
    1893: Wanted, for La Pearl R. R. Shows, bar performers that can do other specialty, or brother act that can fill in on bars. We have our own triple steel(?) core bars. Also double drumer and clarionet player. J. H. La Pearl, . . . Veedersburg IN 15, Crawfordsville 16 and 17. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 375.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl, Crawfordsville IN Aug 16, 17, Waynetown 18 . . . Danville IL 21 . . . Brazil IN 24. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 379.
    1893: Roster of La Pearl's Railroad show, now in its nineteenth week: J. H. La Pearl, sole proprietor and manager; Jess Worlen, business manager; Chas. Bernard, general agent; H. A. Vandercook, band master with seventeen musicians; Ed. C. Long, equestrian director; Dock Parkhurst, boss canvas man with eighteen assistants; ___ Noel, boss property man with five assistants . . . John Fox, chandelier man . . . Mrs. La Pearl, Roy, Harry and Ruby La Pearl, Prof. Vandercook and wife, Mr. and Mrs. Adair, James Hennesey and wife, Rosa Carmen, Mrs. Chas. Bernard, Jess Worlen, Bud Farnum, Wm. Vannerson, Frank Aymar, John Beers, Sam Bliss, Wm. Mathews, Tom Nichols, Geo. Woods . . . Don Weaver, Harry Loomis, Will Roth, Lou King . . . John Bell, Wm. Meyer, Will West, Ed. Rhinehart, Jim Hennesey and Geo. Mills. Mr. and Mrs. La Pearl went to Chicago from Danville, Ill., on business and to visit the World's Fair. Marion and Pearl closed recently. The show will run until late in the season. New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 412.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl, . . . Bloomington IN Aug. 31, Bedford Sep 1 . . . Seymour 7. New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 413.
    1893: La Pearl's Show. Still doing a big business. Turned away five hundred people at Danville, Ill., Aug. 21. Never missed a salary day. Want a few ring and concert acts, also musicians, _ flat cornet, double drummer, _ flat clarionet. Season closes about Oct. 2? at Danville, Ill. Then will open a grand winter circus there. Would be pleased to hear from performers in all branches. Those with stock can winter there and get engagement all winter. . . . New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 422.
    1893: La Pearl Show notes. The La Pearl R. R. Circus will close its season about Oct. 14(?), and go into new and commodious winter quarters at Danville, Ill. Mr. La Pearl has leased the Transfer Co. barn, one half block from the public square, and will transform it into a permanent home for his show. The building is a two story brick, 80(?)ft. front, and 200ft. deep, with 18ft. stories. The second floor front will be used as a gymnasium, and the rear as a canvas and painter's room. The first floor has two large offices on either side, in front of a large double door entrance, then a ring and stage with scenery, seats, and fully equipped with everything necessary to give indoor performances. In the rear is a stable room for 200(?) horses. The building has water works, gas and electric lights. The building will be know as La Pearl's Winter Circus and Gymnasium. A number of this season's people with the circus will remain during the winter and work in the Winter Circus. Three shows per week will be given, and the balance of the time will be devoted to the gymnasium, which will have a large membership. This has been the most successful season the La Pearl Show has ever had, and next year's plans are already maturing for the enlargement of the most popular and successful cheap price show ever placed before the American people. Chas. Bernard, general agent of the show, and his wife, will locate in Danville for the winter. Prof. Ed. Long will be in winter quarters training dogs and ponies for next season. Tommy Nichols takes a partner for a brother act, and will work in the Winter Circus. Prof. Vandercook will furnish music. New York Clipper, September 9, 1893, p. 428.
    1893: On the road, circuses: La Pearl, Aurora IN Sep 13, Lawrenceburg 14 . . . Greensburg 16. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 444.
    1893: Items from La Pearl's Winter Circus at Danville, Ill. Ed. C. Long is busy breaking mules and ponies for the ring. Frank Aymar, Tony Nichols . . . Jessie Golden, Miss Bernard and Harry and Roy La Pearl are all practicing in the gymnasium which is attached to the ring barn. The gymnasium opened Oct. 2 with one hundred and forty members. The circus opens 17(?) and will continue all winter. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.
    1893: The opening of La Pearl's Winter Circus at Danville, Ill., was a success. The following people are there: Mayo and Son, with their ring stock; Prof. E. C. Long, Tony Nichols, Chas. Edwards, the Wolfs, Max Malett, Henry La Sage, Frank Amar, Wm. Vannerson, W. H. Zeralda, Miss Reno, Roy and Harry La Pearl, Jessie Golden and Alfred Dorian. New York Clipper, November 11, 1893, p. 577.
    1893: H. A. Vandercook, for past three seasons with La Pearl show, wintering at his home, Grand Rapids, Mich. New York Clipper, November 25, 1893, p. 606.
    1893: With La Pearl's Winter Circus at Danville, Ill., the new faces are Lottie Wolf, Joe Howard, Tony Hamilton and wife, riders. Business continues to pick up. New York Clipper, December 2, 1893, p. 623.
    1893: La Pearl's Big R. R. Shows Museum and Trained Animal Exhibitions. Not an experiment but a tried success. Only one losing week season of 1893. The show will be twice its formers size, everything on wheels, a "Real Circus." The street parade will be led by a band of twenty first class musicians. Wanted, for season of 1894, people in every branch of the circus profession. Novelties for the ring, musicians that play "music" at sight. Concert people that double in ring, band or sideshow. Also boss canvas man, chandelier man, property men, advance people, cooks, flunkies, canvas men and razor backs. Candy stand and programme privilege for sale. Want to buy or lease a sleeper and __ foot flat cars, also canvas, seat wagons or any other show property that is cheap. Have for sale a __ foot stock car, air brake and Jenier(?) couple, four hundred dollars. Eight entry suits $__, ticket wagon $__, . . . a mermaid illusion $__. A good place for circus people to practice. Board and room free. On account of enlarging the show will take in a partner. Address J. H. La Pearl, Winter Circus, Danville, Ill. New York Clipper, December 30, 1893, p. 696.

    1894: W. H. Quinnett has signed with La Pearl's Big Railroad Show as railroad contractor and general agent. He will make his headquarters at Danville after Jan. 25. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 735.
    1894: Notes from La Pearl's winter quarters at Danville, Ill. Wm. Mayo, the noted horse trainer, has taken Ed. Long's place, and is doing some fine training on stallions, ponies, dogs and goats. He is also teaching Little Harry and Roy some new riding acts. Business was very big the last two weeks. There is a large number of circus performers practicing here, and there is room for more. The show will be much larger than last year, and go over the same route. Will open April 23. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 735.
    1894: Notes from La Pearl's Winter Circus. Business is big, house packed at every performance. . . . Little Harry Pearl is doing a fine pony hurdle act. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
    1894: Partner wanted to buy and interest in a well established railroad circus. On account of enlarging show, must have from one to three thousand dollars. Als have for sale, eight entry suits, small mule, small burro, mermaid illusion, and gymnastic outfit. J. H. La Pearl, Danville, Ill. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 761.
    1894: Notes from J. H. La Pearl's Circus, Danville, Ill. "Business in the Winter Circus is very big. For season of 1894 the show will be much larger than last season and all the appointments will be brand new." New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
    1894: Circus tent for sale . . . used one season, Jet Star Kidd lights, one dressing room light. The first person with $__ takes the outfit, as I have an entire new outfit much larger. Have gymnasium outfit . . . and mermaid illusion, for sale cheap. Want boss canvas man. Still room for good performers to practice. Expenses paid. Address La Pearl's Big R. R. Shows, Danville, Ill. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 825.
    1894: At La Pearl's winter quarters, Danville, Ill. Prof. Harry Clair is rehearsing the band in the latest overtures. The band will be one of the features, having twenty members. The working men are ???ging paint of all colors, and have just finished up the large new wagons, also a new ticket wagon. The show will carry seventy people all told and will open April 23(?) at Danville. The Winter Circus is doing a big business, with new faces each week. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
    1894: Call for La Pearl's Marine Band. All that report by March __ get expenses until opening, others that come later pay their own expenses from April ___. For sale, dirt cheap, two Jet Star Kidd lights, ready to fill and light, and one dressing room light, $__ takes the three . . . two(?) small mules, three years old $__ each. $__ worth of gymnasium apparatus for $__. J. H. La Pearl, Danville, Ill. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 31.
    1894: Notes from La Pearl's Winter Circus. The show continues to do business to crowded houses nightly, notwithstanding the cry of hard times, and blacksmiths, woodworkers and painters are busy building ten new wagons for the coming season. The show will open at Danville, Ill., on or about April 20(?), when everything will be new and sparkling and much larger than ever befroe. We have just received a round top with two middle pieces, one 50ft. dressing room, one 40ft. horse tent, one 40ft. cook tent. All our lithograph paper will be special. Up to date the roster of show is: J. H. La Pearl, sole owner and manager; W. H. Quinette, general contractor and advance representative; J. M. McNeil, boss bill poster in charge of paper, with four assistants; Prof. Rob. H. Clair, musical conductor, with the following musicians: G. H. Guilinger, H. Loomis, R. W. Poland, J. J. Poland, Al. Kadel, Walter Kadel, S. F. Warde, C. J. Summers, C. G. Gibler, J. S. Gibler, Elmer Migrant, Jos. Mahaney, W. J. Howe, W. E. Conkling, H. E?khardt, F. O'Hara, J. W. Lind, H. J. Freeman, Frank Brockwar and Harry Starr. The band will be strongly featured, as Prof. Clair is capable of doing some fine work with that number of men. Performers: Roy and Will Lamont, Bert and Ollie Lamont, H. LaSage, . . . Alf. Darian(?), Billy Pearl, Miss Cannon, Al. Newton, Will Conkling, Larine and Zaro, Morgan Bros., Harry Roy and ??? La Pearl. Col. John Fox, boss chandelier man; Kid Smith boss seat man, with four assistants; Chas. Coope, master of transportation, with five assistants; Elephant Shorty, master of properties, with four assistants; Side Pole Bill, in charge of ponies; Bill Ganley, boss hostler; Jas. ?eddings, chief steward, with two assistants. We travel in our own cars, elegantly equipped. Most of the people are at Winter quarters, all well and practicing some new acts. Little Harry and Roy La Pearl's aerial act will be one of the strongest features of the show. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 85.
    1894: On the road, circuses: La Pearl's, Delevan IL May 16, Lincoln 17, Mt. Pulaski 18, Decatur 19 . . . New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.
    1894: Al. Newton, club juggler, joined La Pearl's Railroad Shows, April 20. Frank Aymar, triple bar performer, is with the show, making his second season. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 164.
    1894: La Pearl Show notes. This show has been out three weeks, not missed a date, and have been playing to good business. The La Pearl children are favorites in their aerial return acts. Master Harry is doing a forward cutaway and backward blindfold somersaults. Little Ruby is making a hit as a child contortionist. . . . Harry Freeman is doing a pedestal ___ with a double somersault to the ground for a finish. . . . La Pearl's Superb Marine Band is a drawing card. Prof. Harry Clair has proven himself an efficient director and a pleasant gentleman. . . . Albert Newton officiates as the equestrian director. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 164.

    1895: C. S. Primrose, general agent of La Pearl's Circus, has signed for next season, making his second season with that show. New York Clipper, November 2, 1895, p. 549.

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La Place - 1896-99 (various titles)

    1895: La Place & Anzola's(?) Big Comedy and Pantomime Co. closed their season at Coalton(?), O., Feb. ?, after a season of twelve weeks, on account of the dissoving of partnership between Mr. La Place and Anzola(?). Mr. La Place will put a ten cent circus on the road next season. He has a number of well known performers booked and he will play the big cities, opening in Toledo, O., May ?. . . . New York Clipper, March 2, 1895, p. 831.

    1896: Notes and roster of Jeavons & La Place's Electric Belt Co. We are still touring Pennsylvania and are doing a good business. This is our third week in this state, and since we opened we have failed to give one performance that we didn't display the S R O sign. We expect to stay in this state until the 1st of April, then we run into Wheeling, W. Va., to get ready for our tenting season, which we will open about May 1. We will carry two large tops. Our big top is 100(?) ft. round top, with one 50ft. middle piece. We have secured a new 60(?) x 60(?) ft. top, which will be used for dressing rooms, sleeping rooms and cook house. Mons. La Place took a flying trip to Pittsburg, and secured a fine wardrobe for the company. Roster: Jervons & La Place, proprietors and managers; Lottie Jeavons, ticket seller; Mons. La Place, flying trapeze and barrel jumping; Mrs. La Place, Spanish webs and giant swing by the feet; Chas. Amazon, high wire and slide for life; Tom Jeavons, comedian and dancer; Mrs. Tom Jeavons, soubrette and skirt(?) dancer; Mlle. La Rose, contortionist and serpentine dancer; Little Rena, child actor, and Clarance Spitzky, boy acrobat. Ed Henderson, triple bar performer joined Jan. 28. Mrs. La Place is making a hit with her new giant swing by the feet. Things are moving along smoothly. New York Clipper, February 8, 1896, p. 773.
    1896: Notes from Mons. La Place's Pavilion Shows. We ran into winter quarters at Cambridge, O., Oct. 11. We had an extraordinary good season, although we had a lot of rain and high winds. Our last stand was at Cadiz, O., on the fair grounds during the fair. We gave four performances on the big day and packed the tent at each performance. We intended to go to New Comertown as a special attraction for the fair, but the weather got so bad we ran into headquarters. We have purchased a piece of ground on the fair ground addition, and are now building a residence, and we have a new ring barn most completed. We are also having tableaux wagons built for the coming season. Harry Gearey(?), band leader left 14(?) for his home at Barty's Mills, O. He has been re-engaged for next season. . . . Oscar Jones, Ed. Schafer, still remain at headquarters and are engaged for the winter season. We open our winter season at Hammond Opera House, Cambridge, O. We will tour Ohio, Pennsylvania and West Virginia for about three months, and then will return home to prepare for the next tenting season. Roster of company for the winter's season: Mons. La Place, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Mons. La Place, treasurer; Harry N. Sutton, black face comedian; Oscar Jones, contortionist and juggler; Mons. La Place, trick tumbler and novelty barrel jumping; Clarance Spritzky, boy acrobat; Mrs. Treasie(?) Sutton, singing and dancing soubrette; Mrs. Mons. La Place, lady clown. New York Clipper, October 24, 1896, p. 543.

    1897: Sparks from Mons. La Place's Mammoth Pavilion Shows. We open our season at Lower Salem, O., April 26(?). The wagons are all painted white, trimmed with red and yellow. . . . Our new band wagon will be a feature on the streets. Roster of the people thus far engaged: Mons La Place, sole owner and manager; Mrs. Mons. La Place, treasurer; Church and Booth; Charles Main?ey. Musicians: Harry Gi?ney, Wm. Frank. W. B. Fowler. New York Clipper, April 10, 1897, p. 93.
    1897: Notes from Mons. La Place's Mammoth Pavilion Shows. We opened our season at Lower Salem, O., May ?, in a terrific snow storm. The tent was packed full of people when suddenly the ___ ropes gave way and the tent came down with a crash. Snow was fully three inches thick on the tent, but no one was hurt. We have been doing a fine business since we opened. At Kife(?), O., the ground was so soft that the seats all fell. Only one person, a lady, was hurt. She had her leg broken just above the ankle. At Macksburg, O., Chas. Mahoney broke his leg while doing a double somersault over six horses. He is recovering fast, and will be able to resume work in a few weeks. Roster: Mons. La Place, sole owner and manager; Mrs. Mons. La Place, treasurer; Ed. Spencer, assistant manager; James Arnold, advance agent, with two assistants; John Shaw, boss canvas man, and three assistants; Bill Hugboy(?) and Joe Brown, property men; Joe Hartsborn, boss hostler; Mons. La Place, Mrs. Mons. La Place . . . Loren Quillin, Charles Maloney, Oscar Jones, Master Pete Maloney, Geo. Weaver . . . performers. . . . Joe Mathews, William Fowler, Clyde Wolf, Bill Schaffer and ___, musicians. Everybody is well and having a good time. The ghost comes regular every Sunday at 9 a. m. New York Clipper, May 22, 1897, p. 187.
    1897: Wanted at once, musicians for circus band, wagon show; three days' stand; also a few all 'round performers. Mons. La Place, care of Amazon Bros.' Shows, Washington, Pa., care of Woodland Park. New York Clipper, August 7, 1897, p. 373.
    1897: For sale cheap, small circus outfit complete. Address Mons. La Place, Lower Salem, O. New York Clipper, October 23, 1897, p. 564.
    1897: Notes from Amazon Bros.' Big Sensation. We opened our season at Lower Salem, O., Nov. 17, and then took the road. We will tour Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania in our own special car. Our company consists of fifteen in number, fourteen performing people and a piano player. Geo. McDonald is in advance with a four horse bill wagon. We have all special paper and will bill like a circus. Roster: Mons La Place and Joe Miller, proprietors and managers; Geo. McDonald, in advance; Chas Vance, treasurer; Mrs. Joe Miller, serio comic; Mrs. Mons La Place, lady singing and talking clown; Mrs. ___ North, soubrette; Jennie Bayne, balladist; Mons La Place, gymnast and acrobat; Joe Miller, comedian; Fred Bond(?), hand balancer; Ed Cannon, Irish comedian and dancer; Oscar Jones, contortionist; Harry Franklin, acrobatic song and dance; Miller and McVay, sketch; Cannon and Bayne, black face sketch team; Prof. Tom North, musical director. New York Clipper, November 27, 1897, p. 649.

    1898: Notes from Amazon Bros.' Big Sensation. We are still touring Eastern Ohio and are doing a good business. Everybody is well and happy, and the ghost makes his appearance every Sunday. Roster: Mons. La Place, sole proprietor and manager; Mrs. La Place, treasurer; Wm. Davis, advance agent; Claud Miller, black face comedian; H. L. Sperry(?), tramp comedian; Fred Han(?), slack wire and and chair pyramid; Mosn. La Place, gymnast and acrobat; Minne Jackson, singing and dancing sobrette; May La Palce, ballad singer; L. C. Boyd, pianist. We will cross the line into West Virginia in two weeks, then move twoard home (Lower Salem, O), where we will commence to get everything in readiness for opening of the summer season with our circus, the date of which has been set for May 15 at Marietta, O. Everything will be new, being and sparkling form stake to bale ring. Our new band chariot will be a feature in the street parade. It is finished off in solid aluminum and will sparkle like a solid piece of silver. The show will be moved over the roads by horses and will tour Ohio, West Virginia and Pennsylvania. We will have twelve wagons and three cages. New York Clipper, February 5, 1898, p. 809.
    1898: Sparks from Rush & Shott's All Featured Ten and Twenty Cent Railroad Shows. Everything is hustle around headquarters getting ready for the opening, which will take place at Bluefield, W. Va., May 10. The show will go out with the finest equipment. Our cars are finely decorated with large gilt letters and the body painted an imitation of gold. We will carry about twenty five people all told. One big top is 80ft. round top with 42ft. middle piece. 30x60 ft. dressing tent, 40x70 ft. side show. We are looking for a prosperous season through the West Virginia, Ohio and Pennsylvania coal and oil fields, and Schott & Rush, with Mons. La Place's assistance, are sparing neither time or money to make this one of the strongest attractions on the road. From our last ad. in the Clipper we received two hundred and sixty letters from some of the best people in the circus business. New York Clipper, May 7, 1898, p. 160.
    1898: Wanted, musicians and performers for Shott & La Place's Railroad Shows. Male and female acts. Those that double concert preferred. Also want strong outside attraction. Want man with trained dogs. Side show privileges to let. . . . Address Mons. La Place, Bluefield, W. Va. New York Clipper, May 14, 1898, p. 183.
    1898: Wanted quick, for Shott & La Place's New All Featured R. R. Shows. Strong band of ? mouth pieces. Would like to hear from good Indian band. Address Mons. La Place, Bluefield, W. Va. New York Clipper, May 21, 1898, p. 201.
    1898: Roster of Shott & La Place's New All Featured Railroad Show. Everything is ready for our opening at Rinegold(?), W. Va., May ??. The performers are as follow: Mr. and Mrs. Mons. La Place . . . Martello Bros. and Blewett, clown juggler. The band is under the direction of Prof. James D. Flannery and Wm. B. Fowler. R. M. Smith and J. D. Shott are in advance. New York Clipper, May 28, 1898, p. 213.
    1898: Wanted, at once, for Shott & La Place's R. R. Shows, a few more all 'round performers that can double in concert. Also want good hustling and close contracting agent. Can use 1 or 2 white musicians, and 2 or 3 colored musicians for band no. 2. Would like to hear from man with troupe of trained dogs. Would like to hear from female performers who can double in concert. Mlle. Cereto, please write. Address Mons. La Place, Ceredo, W. Va., care of show. New York Clipper, June 11, 1898, p. 252.
    1898: [Two ads.]Wanted, colored performers and musicians. Those doubling in brass preferred. Steady season year 'round. Never close. Address Mons. La Place, Chillicothe, O., care of Amazon Bros. Show. Wanted quick, for Shott & La Place's Railroad Shows, all 'round circus and concert people. . . . Harvey Sutton write. Address Mons. La Place, Chillicothe, Ohio, care of show. New York Clipper, June 25, 1898, p. 284.

    [Year unknown] Notes and roster of the Amazon Bros.' Electric ___ Co. . . . We wish to state that we are no longer connect with Tom Jeavons, as was reported. . . . Roster: Amazon Bros., proprietors; Mons La Place, lecturer and manager; Mrs. Mamie Amazon, treasurer; Chas Amazon, comedian; James Amazon, juggler and trick tumbler; Mons La Place, novelty barrel jumper; Mrs. La Place, Spanish ring expert, giant swing by the feet, and lady clown; Walter F. Sheets, musical comedian . . . New York Clipper, February 29, p. 825.

    1899: Amazon Bros. 10 cents circus will exhibit for three days, comencing tonight in East Newark and from past reference as to it being a first class exhibition it is certainly and up-to-date show. The Zanesville papers all speak very highly of it and when a person can see 20 different acts and as many performers for 10 cents is a treat seldom offered. Tonight ladies will be admitted free. Their band wagon will parade the streets every day at noon. There will be a grand free exhibition tonight at 7 o'clock. Now one should miss seeing it. Newark Daily Advocate (Newark, OH), July 6, 1899.

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La Tena's Wild Animal Circus - 1914

    Show had one train with two horse cars, five flat cars, two sleepers, 27 wagons. Had two elephants, one camel and seven cages with five black bears, four lionesses, five seals, one lion, one hyena, one kid and another lion. Had 27 horses, 13 ponies, one pony colt, one donkey and a goat. Had a parade with riders, a carriage, cages, wagon and calliope and a free exhibition (slide for life). Wagons: cookhouse, water tank, property (tab), two carriages, reserved seats, canvas, stake and chain, poles, light plant, sideshow and menagerie, horse tent and blacksmith, tickets, calliope, dressing and canvas, seats, a cart, privileges, and the cages. Tents: big top, sideshow and menagerie, two candy stands, colored dodger, small sideshow, horse tent, cookhouse, dressing tent, dining tent, dancing girls and a knife rack. Sideshow and menagerie: sword swallower, cockatoos and monkeys, snake charmer, colored band, oriental dancers, two elephants, one camel, ponies and five cages. Circus Report, Vol. 1, No. 36, 1972, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Lawler's - 1890

    Wanted for Lawler's Moral Exhibition and Trained Animal Shows, bar team that do brothers or double traps, lady performers for big show and concert band of six pieces that double. Show opens in Dallas, Texas, April 17(?). Address Frank De Beque, Dallas, Tex. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 14.
    Roster of Lawler's Moral Show and Trained Animal Exhibition: Frank De Beque, manager . . . H.(?) E. Bowers, general agent; Denis(?) Fox, equestrian director . . . Bob Perkins, boss hostler with twelve assistants; band - Harry Br??an, leader: Jink Lee, Henry Kruger, Geo. Marshall, H. Taylor, Oscar Kemmelling, S. Wright, M. Riley [prob. Mel Riley] and J. W. Scory; candy butchers, W. Stanton, Albert Krause and Chas. Doty; privileges, Frank Beatty(?); chief de cuisine, Dave Johnson with four assistants; performers - Marietta Brothers, Louis Fox, Sam C. Wright, Joe Boggs, Gus Bennett, Mel Rielly(?), Joe Page, Tom Hardy, Harry De Graw, Maggie Lawlor, Polly Revell, Jerry Scanlan and M. Riley. Jerry Scanlan introduces a troupe of performing Brazilian goats; the iron jawed horse, Sport, trick horse, Colonel, introduce by his trainer, Frank de Beque; riding dog, Trix; rope walking and riding goat, Nellie, and manege horse Duke. This show uses an eighty foot top, with a forty foot middle piece, and dressing room, cook and horse tents. This show travels by rail, using four cars and sleeping cars. New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 261.
    1890: Lawler's Moral Exhibition and Trained Animal Shows wants people for circus and concert. Long season South. Frank De Beque, Junction City, Kansas. New York Clipper, September 6, 1890, p. 412.

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Chas. Lee's London - 1887-89, 1890-94

    Chas. Lee’s London Show exhibited in Knoxville, Tenn., March 17, in a snowstorm - the first time in Mr. Lee’s twenty-two years’ experience that he ever showed under similar circumstances. New York Clipper, March 26, 1887.

    Chas. Lee’s Great London Show, Congress of Educated Animals, Consolidated with the great French De Alma Family. Uniform Band, Superb Orchestra. The great and only “McCormick” and his Corps of Lady Drillists, and a Grand Street Parade of Educated Donkeys, Goats, Hogs, Dogs, drawing beautiful golden Chariots. Lock Haven, Pa., Dec. 20 and 21, Altoona, Pa., Dec. 22. Lee & De Alma, care of Mountain City Opera House, Altoona, Pa. New York Clipper, December 15, 1888. Ad.

    1889: The Cliftons - Billie, Jessie and Little Toots - spent Christmas with Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Lee, at their residence at ___ Pa., where a good time was had. There was a tree laden with pretty things for little Toots, and Santa Claus was liberal with all. New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 732.
    1889: The following people join Charles Lee’s London Circus for the winter: the Human Snake, Louis Berious, high wire; Lavelita and wife, aerialists; Prof. Shaw, Prof Dooney, Willie the boy fire king; Bob Clark, clown; Mlle. Anneta, flying rings and Mlle. Mirinda, female juggler. New York Clipper, September 21, 1889, p. 460.

    1890: Chas. Lee London Circus, winter quarters, Canton, Pa., for immediate reply include stamp. New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 734.
    1890: Comstock and Eggleston have signed with Charles Lee's Circus for the coming season. They have secured the concert and reserved seat privileges. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
    1890: Chas. Lee has already engaged __ billposters for his show the coming season, and has had build a splendid bill wagon, to be used exclusively by them. The circus will be enlarged, and will run sixty head of stock. There will also be new and original printing, and plenty of it. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
    1890: The following people have signed with Lee's London Show for next season: Chas. Lovell, Elnor, Howard and Stentions, Queen Eve, Mille Laura, Philip Miller, Prof James Dolan and . . . New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
    1890: Howard and Stinson(?), Mexican ladder trapezists; Alice Howard, slack wire performer, and Queen Eva have signed with Chas. Lee's London Shows for the coming season. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 765.
    1890: Circus property for sale. One small horse tent; lot chandelier lights, bill trunks, __ trunks, one aerial(?) suspension(?) for concert attraction, __ft. tent, all in good condition. Address Harry L. Rogers, assistant manager Lee's London Circus, Canton, Pa. P. S. I have still a few coach ___ left. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 865.
    1890: The following is the complete roster of Chas. Lee's London Shows: Four Howards, Lee Roberts, Queen Eve and Howel(?), Chas. J. Gregory . . . Philip Miller, Chas. Lovell, Comstack and Eggleston . . . Mrs. Chas. Lee, Hattie Lee, Harry L. Rogers . . . Chas. Stabler, Chas. ?. Owens . . . Chris Wilson . . . Dennis McLaughlin, Thomas Craven, Hank Johnson, Joe Hewitt, Sig. La Carlo, Jerry Wilson, Pete Jenning, Wilson Maning, Bert Salsman, Lou West, Willie Ferris, John Thorn, Frank Devere . . . Lorretta Bros. . . . twenty Indians, ten cowboys . . . Sandy Rockwell and P.(?) W. Schroeder, in charge of advance brigade. The show opens May 3, at Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 75.
    1890: Call. All people engaged with Charles Lee's London Show report at Canton on Friday, May 2(?). Dress rehearsal on Saturday. "Bring only light luggage." Charles Lee, Canton, Pa. N. Y. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 79.
    1890: P. W. Snider(?), the well known circus agent, is dangerously ill of typhoid fever at his father's residence at ___, Ind. This engagement with Charles Lee's London Show has been cancelled for the present, in consequence. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 91.
    1890: Wanted. General agent, for Chas. Lee's London Show. Must report on Monday, April 21. Salary twenty dollars per week and expenses. Chas. Lee, Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 94.
    1890: Lall Eggleston, of Comstock and Eggleston, has doubled with Billy Wilson. They have taken charge of the concert with Chas. Lee's Circus. The ___ will be known as Eggleston and Wilson. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
    1890: During the performance of Chas. Lee's Circus at Kingston(?), N. Y., May 17(?), a section of the reserved seat gallery fell, carrying down several hundred . . . Many persons were cut and bruised, but the only severe injury was to a man whose leg was broken. The management settled for the damages immediately. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 167.
    1890: Notes from Chas. Lee's London Shows. Business has been tip top ever since our opening, and the prospects are unusually good. Everybody is enjoying good health, except Lee Howard, who has been suffering with cramps, but is now slowly recovering. We have been putting our band wagon only in parade since losing all our trappings in the river at Troy, Pa. A new lot is almost completed, and we expect to resume full parade this week. The list will consist of band wagon, twelve mouth pieces, under the leadership of Prof. E. K. Force; fifty horses, mounted and trapped; trained dogs, riding dogs, donkeys, clowns, Zulua Circassian, cowboys, etc., with everything bright and new. New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 198.
    On the Road, Circuses: Chas. Lee's, Ayers, Mass. June 12. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210.
    1890: Good business is still the reported rule with Chas. Lee's London Shows through New England. . . . Several head of stock have been added, and everybody is well contented. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 215.
    1890: Wanted, a good reliable agent, for small circus, to take John H. Gray's place on or about July 15. Cooper, of Gregory & De Alma Show, or Dwight Clapp, write. . . . Address, Chas. Lee, Great London Shows, Great Falls, N. H. New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 272.
    1890: On July 1, Chas. Lee was presented by Prof. Geo. Golt and wife with a beautiful gold badge, Mr. Lee being a member of Baltimore Lodge, No. 7. Mr.Golt is a member of the same lodge, and is manager of the annex of Chas. Lee's London Shows. Harry Rogers, assistant manager, and who has charge of the door, was presented by Mrs. Chas. Lee with a handsome gold charm, ___ of his lodge of Odd Fellows, July 1. It was the birthday of both. Mr. Lee bought four bay horses last week, paying ___ for them, and will add two cages at Concord, N. H. They are being built there by the Concord Coach Manufactory. Prof. Geo. Golt also received another lot of snakes this week. He aims to have the largest den in America by Fall. Everybody is well, and the boys all have money to lend. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
    1890: Prof. Geo. T. Golt, manager of the annex of Chas. Lee's Show, was presented July ? with a handsome gold ring by manager Lee. Mrs. Chas. Lee now wears a fine diamond ring, recently given to her by Mr. Lee. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
    1890: Notes from the Charles Lee Show. Everything is lovely, and good circus weather is with us. Business continues big. One of our property men fell off a wagon at Pittsfield July 9, and was run over and had his leg broken. A subscription was immediately taken up by Prof. Geo. T. Golt, the people responding to it liberally and giving him every attention. He was left at London, Ct., comfortable, with $73.75(?) to defray his expenses. Philip Miller is out again, umbrella and all. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 294.
    1890: Chas. Lee's Great London Shows, the old, reliable, honest one ring circus. The largest and best 25c wagon show on earth. Chas. Lee, sole proprietor. H. L. Rogers, assistant manager. J. H. Hewitt, treasurer. J. H. Gray, gen. agent. . . . our New England tour. Enlaraged twice since our opening May 5. . . . Eilnor(Elnor?), aerial perch and balancing trapeze. Chas. J. Gregory, equilibrist, enters the ring and dances his barrel, ___ and table. Louis Beauvais, one armed gymnast, back bending, all kinds of posturing, trick tumbling, head and hand balancing, also first class wire act. Comstock and Eggleston, exponents of African comedy, eccentric comedians, talking and singing acts. Mrs. Charles Lee, only lady horse trainer in America, troupe of performing ponies. R. V. Stinson, aerial wonder, daring feats on flying trapeze, with London show. Mlle. Elnora, French invisible silver wire artist. Mrs. Chas. Lee, and her $5,000 troupe of performing dogs. Parson Hoy, comedian and vocalist. Prof. Geo. Golt, lecturer, magician, fire king, sword swallower, with Lee's London Show. Hazel, queen of the floating wire. J. H. Hewitt, treasurer and lightning ticket seller. Queen Eva, child wonder, refined song and dance artist. Harry Rogers, assistant manager. Lee Howard, Bob Howard, Howard Bros., Mexican ladder act. Mrs. Geo. Golt with her den of African snakes. Mlle. Leonetta, Indian clubs and lady gymnast. M. F. Owens, clarionet and trombone. Albert Yoder, tuba soloist. Edward Schlein, 1st or ?d violin, alto in brass. Chas. S. Stahler, solo B flat cornettist. Elmer Sutliff, trombone and baritone. Lee's Great London Shows, Canton, Pa. home address. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 304.
    1890: Notes from Chas. Lee's London Shows. Everything is moving as smoothly as ever, and business continues good, in our night stands especially. A new and large museum top was added at Hampton, Mass. . . . also a new main entrace to the show. The spread of canvas is good, and looks neat, as everything else does about the show. . . . A new passenger wagon was added at Georgetown. The show now has eighty head of stock, not including ring stock, and all are in fine condition. . . . New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 323.
    1890: Comstock and Eggleston, who are now gaining wide favor with Chas. Lee's London Shows, will open at the Bijou Theatre, Boston . . . New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.
    1890: Charles Lee's London Circus spread its canvas at Attleboro, Mass., 8. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.
    1890: Chas. Lee's Show reports everything running smoothly, business good and the weather favorable. Their stock are as fat as ___, and are much admired in all towns they visit. The Rexford Bros. joined the show at Pawtucket, R. I. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
    1890: Geo. T. Golt, formed his Enchanted Temple of ___ Wonders and Novelty Co., to travel by wagon, with six head of horses. Prof. Golt closed with a successful season of twenty-four weeks with Chas. Lee's London Circus. New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 523.
    1890: The season of Lee's Great London Shows came to an end Oct. __ at Canton, Pa., where the show will quarter for the winter. The management is perfectly satisfied with the results of this years' tour, which has been one of the longest and most profitable that show ever had. Next season the company will be considerably enlarged. Treasurer J. H. Hewitt(?) will rest at Toronto, Can. for awhile. Chas. J. Gregory was presented by the company on the closing day with a fine meerschaum pipe, as a token of their esteem. New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 523.
    1890: Comstock and Eggleston had to cancel their dates at Boston, as Mr. Comstock has been confined to a dark room ever since he left Lee's Circus. . . . Mr. Eggleston will rest at ___, N. Y., for two or three weeks in hopes that his partner will get well, so the team may go to work again. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 539.
    1890: The following have signed with Chas. Lee's London Show: Willie(?) Howard, bare back rider and bounding jockey act . . . Prince Hokoto, Japanese juggler. The show will add a menagerie of five cages and a new band wagon. One of the principal features will be the street parade preceding the ring performance under the canvas. The wagons are being newly painted. New York Clipper, December 20, 1890, p. 651.
    1890: Notes from Chas. Lee's London Shows. Chas. Comstock and Lall Eggleston have signed for the season of 1891, making their second season with manager Lee. Mr. Eggleston will have charge of the concert, and Mr. Comstock will run the reserve seat privileges. Mr. Eggleston will also act as talking and singing clown. . . . Harry ?. Rogers will also hold his old position as general ___ of stock, ticket taker and manager of side show. Everybody is busy gettng the different departments in shape. The show will be greatly enlarged, and the season will open with everything shining bright and new. New York Clipper, December 27, 1890, p. 667.

    1891: H. A. Mann has signed as general agent in advance of Charles Lee's Great London Show for the coming season, which opens May 1 at Canton, Pa. Mr. Lee is managing La Cardo & Clifton's Big City Hall Show, which closes in March. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
    1891: Prof. Del Monto and his wife, Alma Thorn(?), have signed with Chas. Lee's London Shows. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
    1891: The following people have signed with Chas. Lee's London Circus for the season of 1891: Lewellyn Kern, Albert Sylvester, Philip Miller . . . R.(E.?) A. Searls, Prof. Johnson and Harry L. Rogers. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 795.
    1891: Wanted, Chas. Lee's London Shows, a few more good, useful performers that can do two turns or more in the ring. Boss canvasman and canvasmen, drivers and chandelier man. Steady work and good wagons, and be governed by the rules of show. Chas. Lee, Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 15.
    1891: Wanted, Prairie Dogs, Australian or vampire bats, Birds and animals of all kinds; Also freaks and curiosities for sideshow. Punch and Judy man. J. H. Hewitt, assistant manager, Lee's London Shows, Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 51.
    1891: The following is the complete make up of Charles Lee's Great London Shows for this season: Charles Lee, proprietor and manager; J. H. Hewitt, assistant manager and treasurer; H. L. Rogers, master of transportation and sideshow manager; H. A. Mann, general agent; Thomas Be??enger, boss billposter, with fourteen assistants; Wm. S. Cooper, boss canvasman; Jas. Ellsworth, assistant boss canvasman, with twenty assistants; Walter Rockwell, boss hostler, with twenty-five grooms and drivers; Cal. Hines, master of ring stock; Doc. Powers, chandelierman, with two assistants; James Downing, head cook, with three assistants; W. Watts, boss props, with three assistants; J. Collins, ringmaster; Thomas Craven seatman; Sam Black, dog boy; W. H. Clifton, candy privileges . . . Ed. Cary, . . . Mlle. Kalanka, Major White and wife, Prof. R. M. Johnson's band of ten pieces; Comstock and Eggleston, Billy and Jessie Clifton, Lulu Miller . . . Lizzie Booth, Mrs. Charles Lee's troupe of trained dogs and ponies, Master Willie Howard . . . John Thorn, the Booths, Sylvester and Kern, Lall Eggleston, Charles Comstock, Mlle. Elnora, the Millers, Philip and Lulu, Japanese perch performers and others. The show opens its season May ? in Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 74.
    1891: Call, Chas. Lee's Circus, Museum and Menagerie. People engaged report at Canton, Pa., Friday, May 18. Special - only light trunks will be carried, __ inch the standard. Chas. Lee. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 85.
    1891: The call for Charles Lee's Circus is for May 1, instead of May 18. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
    1891: First Circus in Forty Years. Circus managers lay great stress upon the importance of securing "new country" for their exhibitions. The medal for superiority in this matter should be given to Lee's Great London Circus. On July 7, 1890, it came to Loudon Village, in the state of New Hampshire. It was the first circus that had visited the town in forty years. It is a pretty rural village, away from the railroad, and without telegraphic, telephonic or any other communication with the outside world, except a lumbering stage coach that brings the mail once a day, and occasionally a passenger. The billing of the town created no little sensation; but when, on the morning of the exhibition, the "Great London Circus" halted upon the outskirts of the village and made ready for the "grand stret parade," and when a little later the "grand and gorgeous procession" came marching through the town, the English language is utterly inadequate to describe the intense excitement it created. The tents were erected on the village green, and no sooner were they up, and the sideshow paintings displayed, than the exclaminations of wonder and admiration filled the air. Many of the onlookers had never seen a circus. The elders and deacons of the church held an informal meeting and discussed the propriety of visiting the circus, or countenancing members of the church in doing so. Meanwhile all the young people in town resolved to go to the circus, regardless of church discipline. Half an hour before the show commenced Elder Durgin(?) and Deacon Shannon, with solemn faces and in???ed step, might be seen marching toward the show ground. Just as they reached the spot, the band struck up a lively air, and the elder and deacon looked at each other, and then at the crowd. Finally the deacon was heard to remark: "Elder, suppose we just look inside and observed the tendency of the ungodly exhibition." "By all means, deacon, let us do so.," replied the elder, and forthwith the circus treasury was richer by fifty cents than it was previously. The entrance of these two worthies settled the moral status of the show. Sisters Hook and Nixon, who "would not be seen inside a circus tent for the world," bought tickets and reserved seats, and all Loudon followed their example, and the good deacons were observed in the circus to applaud several of the acts, and the elder remarked to a neighbor that "he hadn't felt so young for fifty years as he did this afternoon." It may be forty years before Loudon Village is visited by another circus, but the remembrance of the coming of this one will be cherished alike by old and young for many years. - Fred Lawrence. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
    1891: Notes from the Lee Show. Chas. Lee's Great London Circus, Museum and Menagerie opened their season at Canton, Pa., May 2, to reported good business. We have a strong sideshow, making a feature of it. . . . Our ring performance is running as smooth as glass, with a programme that receives plenty of applause. Mrs. Chas. Lee laid off three days last week, with a severe case of the grip, but is sufficiently recovered to perform her dogs and ponies. At Orangeville, Pa., a magnificent leopard died. On 6(?) we put up our canvas on a field, with fully one inch of snow on it, not expecting snow, but to our surprise and pleasure, we had a nice house. Lall Eggleston is doing the singing and talking clown. Billy and Jessie Clifton are closing the concert in a funny sketch . . . We are all proud of our show, and are under the impression that it is the best wagon show on the road. Mr. Lee purchased a splendid grey horse May ?, which he is breaking for Willie Howard's bounding jockey act. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Chas. Lee's, Stroudsburg, Pa. May 21, Belvidere, N. J. 22, Washington 23, White Horse 25 . . . New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Chas. Lee's, . . . Perth Amboy NJ May 28, Rahway 29, Westfield 30. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Lee's London, Morristown, N.J. July 29, Madison 30, Orange 31, Elizabeth Aug 1, South Amboy 3, Keyport 4, Red Banks 5, Freehold 6, Lakewood 7, Atlantic City 8. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 347.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Chas. Lee's Utica NY Sep 17 . . . Pen Yan 23. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 467.
    1891: The following bandmen have engaged for the season of 1892 with Chas. Lee's London Circus: A. F. Hagar, leader; Geo. Lester, Fred Knapp, Oscar Jones, Michael Owena, Geo. Jones, Chas. Seamon, Ed. Burk, Lall Eggleston, Parson Hoy, Howard Wilson, Joe Hewitt and Albert Yoder. Among the performers signed are: The Howard Family, Lee, Allace(?) and Queen Eve; Burell and Burchin; Louis Beavions . . . Michal Yode; Polly Wilson; Jessie Clifton; and Balanche Cammeron. New York Clipper, December 19, 1891, p. 683.
    1891: Charles Lee, proprietor and manager of Lee's Great London Shows, was a pleasant Clipper caller June 8(?). He reported splendid business with his show, the past week being the banner one of the season thus far. At Perth Amboy, N. J., the attendance more than ___ the seating capacity of the big tent. Hyatt Frost and Mr. Gale visited the show at Passaic, and at Tarrytown, N. Y., Mr. Kunkely and son were visitors. The show is running in better shape every day, and everybody seems eager to make it a thorough success. The parade is a great attraction, and helps no little to make the show a winner. Another painting for the sideshow has been added, with a new band wagon and other accessories. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
    1891: Wanted, a barrel kicker, also sideshow freaks. Address as per route. Chas. Lee's Great London Shows. P.S. Ed. McGrath, wire me if at liberty. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 240.
    1891: At liberty, greatest little aerial artists, Lizzie and Arthur Booth (the Booths), double trapeze act. En route with Chas. Lee Circus. Address ___ Paul Street, Rochester, N.Y. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 241.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Chas. Lee's, Rockville, Ct. June 24(?), Windsor Locks 25, Suffield 26, Thompsonville 27, Indian Orchard, Mass. __, Chicopee 30, Westfield July 1, Huntington 2, Chester 3 . . . New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
    1891: Wanted, for Chas. Lee's Wagon Show. Performers of all kinds, aerial aratists, band men, leader that can play violin and strong cornet. Address . . . Westfield MA July 1, Huntington July 2, Chester July 3 . . . Ike Howard, write. Chas. Lee. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 277.
    1891: Wanted, a sober, reliable boss canvasman to join at once. Salary forty dollars per month. Route: Chester, Mass., July 3 . . . Chas. Lee, London Circus. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 293.
    1891: Suit has been brought against Charles Lee for damages for injuries sustained by Gustave Duncan in 1890. Mr. Duncan was hurt by the fall of some seats in the circus tent. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Lee's London Show, Goshen, N.Y. July 23. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 332.
    1891: Chas. Lee's Shows will be strengthened by the Howard Family (four in number) - Lee Alice, Hazel and John - also a new top, one hundred foot, with a fifty foot middle piece, a new horse tent and new dressing room tops. The show has not played a losing stand since the opening. Mr. Lee also bought six fine wagons of Hyatt Frost, and has had a new band wagon built. He will add two camels shortly to the menagerie. We pride ourselves on our fine horse flesh. We have sixty-five head now with the show, and Mr. Lee has gone West to buy twenty-five more. Last week was the banner week of the season. At Hosendale(?), N.Y., we turned people away at both performances. Mr. Hewitt, our treasurer, is banking the boys' money for them in his safe in the ticket wagon. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
    1891: During the performance of Charles Lee's Circus at Kingston, N.Y., about a year ago, the seats at the evening entertainment fell and several persons were injured. . . . Upon the appearance of Lee's Circus at Kingston on July 1?, Mr. Lee was served with papers for damages to the amount of $2,000 for injuries sustained by one Augustus Duncan, who claimes to have been injured at the time of the accident. Mr. Lee thought it strange that Mr. Duncan should wait a year before putting in his claim, and states that had Mr. Duncan informed him of his injuries at the time he would have settled with him as he did with Mr. Freer. Mr. Lee has secured counsel, but it is though a settlement will be made before the case goes into court. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
    1891: From Lee's London Ciricus. Since writing you last our business has been phenomenal. Our afternoon attendance especially has tested the capacity of our new top on several occasions. Our ring performance is put together in good shape, and does not fail to please, especially the clowning of Eggleston, Clifton(?) and Howard, which keeps the audience in good humor. Parson Roy(?), comedian, and Chas. Cameron, female impersonator, joined last week for the concert. Mr. Lee returned to Canton, Pa. last week from the West, and shipped on to the show some bery fine gray horses and a splendid pony, present to Mrs. Lee. Our stock is in splendid condition. Everything is as bright as a dollar around the show, and everybody is happy. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
    1891: Lee Howard, late of the Howard Bros., and Frank Acton, late of Emerson and Acton, have joined hands, and will hereafter be known as the Howard Bros. They are now with Chas. Lee's Great London Show . . . New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
    1891: During the evening performance of Chas. Lee's London Show, at Roxbury, N.Y., Aug. 18(?), Elnor(?), aerialist, had a very narrow escape from serious injury while doing his perch act. The bail [sic?] ring broke, and he fell from the top, but, with the exception of a few bruises, he was unhurt. New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 433.
    1891: Ithaca, New York. Chas. Lee's Circus played to packed tents 17. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 488.
    1891: Chas. Lee's Great London Circus, Museum and Menagerie will close one of the most successful seasons it has ever had at Canton, Pa., Oct. 3, and will go into its new winter quarters. The show will be ___ and repainted. Several new cages wil be added, and a new parade wardrobe will be made during the winter. No money will be spared to make it one of the finest wagon shows in America. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 502.
    1891: Chas. Lee has purchased a farm about one mile out from the borough of Canton, Pa., and will commence immediately to build new winter quarters. He will put up one new building, 30x80(?)ft., in which to store his cages and wagons, a new show 24x34, a blacksmith shop 20x30 and a ring barn for the breaking and training of horses and animals. He received a fine young cinnamon bear from Colorado, and will add several new animals duirng the winter to his menagerie. Mr. Lee is still confined to the house with erysipeias [sp?] in his legs, but is slowing recovering. He has already booked several features for next season, and will have one of the strongest wagon shows on the road. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.
    1891: Am now prepared to do business for the season of 1892. Circus talent in all lines of circus biz. Performers, bandmen, sideshow freaks, curiosities, concert people, etc. Also boss canvasman, boss hostler, drivers and canvasmen. The is the Old Reliable Wagon Show, __ years on the road and don't owe a dollar. Address Chas. Lee, manager, London Circus, winter quarters, Canton, Pa. P.S. Billposters and lithographers address H. A.(?) Mann, general agent, Imlay City, Mich. for season of 1892. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 578.
    1891: The following people have signed with Chas. Lee's Circus for the season of 1892: H. A. Mann, general agent; J. H. Hewitt, assistant manager and treasurer; Harry Rogers, Thomas Bailey, Comstock and Eggleston, the Cliftons and the Howards. The new winter quarters are expected to be ready for occupancy about Nov. 10. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 593.
    1891: The following have signed with Lee's London Circus: Seamon and Burk . . . Geo. Irvin will have charge of the sideshow, making Mr. Irvin's second season. They have also added two new cages and a new bill wagon. A pair of wolves have arrived from Idaho. Mr. Lee is still confined to the house with a lame leg, but is slowly recovering. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
    1891: H. A. Mann has been re-engaged as general agent of Chas. Lee's London Shows for next season. Mr. Mann is at present editing the local page of The Optic, published at Imlay City, Mich. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
    1891: The Howards, Alice, Lee and Bea(?), have signed with Charles Lee's London shows for next season, their third consecutive engagement. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.

    1892: Prof. Griffin's Glassblowers. No. 1 Show, with Lall Eggleston, business manager . . . No. 2 party, under management of Capt. Mack Evans . . . Fred I. Griffin, a brother of the professor, is becoming quite proficient as a Punch and Judy manipulator. Next season, Mr. Eggleston, with his old partner, Chas. Comstock, will be with Lee's Great London Shows. New York Clipper, January 2, 1892, p. 715.
    1892: Everything around Chas. Lee's winter quarters is ___. Two new bill wagons came out of the shop last week. The new tableau wagon will be done next week. Everything will be overhauled. There will be thirty-four wagons and eighty head of stock. . . . The show will open April 30(?) at Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 760.
    1892: Bert Saulsman has been reengaged for Chas. Lee's London Shows. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 776.
    1892: Roster of Chas. Lee's London Shows: Chas. Lee, manager; J. H. Hewitt, assistant manager and treasurer; H. H. Mann, general agent; Si(?) Behenger, head bill poster, with four assistants; Scanlan Bros., lithographers; H. L. Rogers, master of transportation; Thos. Bailey, boss canvasman, with twenty men; Doc Powers, chandelier man; Harry Moreland, animal man; Dick Rogers, boss hostler, with sixteen teamsters; Fred Napier, cook(?), with two assistants; Chas. Comstock, equestrian director; Billy Clifton, candy privileges . . . Milt.(?) Bruce, A. F. Hagar . . . A. Taylor, Will Parker . . . Fred Napp, Geo. Lester, Billy Lee, Harry Johnson, Thos. Williams . . . Howard Family . . . Seamon and Burk . . . Phil Miller and wife, Hart and Leonard, Lall Eggleston, Running Elk and Wanna's(?) Wild West. Mrs. Chas. Lee and troupe of ponies and dogs. Mlle. Elnora . . . Billy and Josie Clifton . . . Geo. H. (Punch) Irving . . . Zela and Prof. Robt. Powers and Continental Band. The show will open April 30(?) at Canton, Pa., and will be fully equipped with new canvas, wagons, etc. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
    1892: Prof. Chas. E. Griffin's Bohemain Glass Blowers closed their season at New Castle, Pa., March 26. Business manager Eggleston will rest at his home, ___, N.Y., until April 30, when he joins Chas. Lee's London Show at Canton, Pa. . . . New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
    1892: Montello, contortionist, and Schroder and Frank Rexford, acrobats, are the latest additions to the long list of performers engaged for Chas. Lee's Circus. The show is ready to take the road at any time, and is in excellent shape, in fact, brand new from the advance wagon to the door stakes. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 82.
    1892: The advance brigade of Lee's Great London Shows have started out for the season, headed by A. Mann of Imlay City, Mich. as general agent . . . Mr. Lee has ___ to put on a No. 2 bill wagon, which will add five posters to the brigade. . . . New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 98.
    1892: Performers wanted. Ground or aerial acts, male or female riding act, with horse. Chas. Lee's Great London Circus, Address North Adams, Mass. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 175.
    1892: Chas. Lee's Great London Circus is doing well through Northern New York. The show is using a 100ft. round top tent with a __ft. middle piece. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Chas. Lee's, North Adams MA May 25, Clarement 26, Shelburne Falls 27, Turner's Falls 2?, Athol 31, Gardner June 1, Leominster 2. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
    1892: Chas. Lee's London Shows report fine business in the East, in spite of bad weather. The new eight horse star entree, under the direction of equestrian director Lee Howard, is meeting with success. Six new iron grey horses were added to the already fine stud, making thirty-two iron greys in the parade. A new sideshow top was put up for the first time May 27. . . . Assistant manager Joe Hewitt is kept busy, but happens to get time enough to trade horses. He surprises the boys. He comes in town with a new horse every day. The band, under the leadership of Prof. A. F. Hager, is playing fine music. He has fifteen men under him. John W. Mack, the old time candy butcher, joined at North Adams, Mass., 2?, just arriving from the Harris Nickel Plate Circus. Chas. Comstock, who used to work with Lall Eggleston, is not with the show. He disappointed and was canceled. Mr. Eggleston is working alone. Frank Acton, the equilibrist, joined 21. Parson Hoy(?), the old time concert performer, has charge of the reserved seats, and is always on hand. Billy Clifton, the knockabout clown, has charge of the candy stands, with four assistants, who are kept busy. The little green grocery is always well stocked. Master of transportation Rogers' bicycle comes very handy in running back and forth. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
    1892: Chas. Lee's London Show is doing splendidly in New England, according to all accounts. Seamon(?) and Burke have produced their new Japanese act. It is said to be an excellent card. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
    1892: Notes from Chas. Lee's London Shows. Business continues good. Mrs. Chas. Lee purchased a fine two seat surry last week which she drives over the road. George Irving and Mme. La Belle, his wife, visited Mr. Irving's home at Haverhill, Mass., over Sunday. Mack Evans, contracting agent, for Leon Washburn's Shows, was a recent visitor. We had a blow down between shows at Biddeford, Me., June 14 . . . No one hurt. Mr. Lee has made a flying trip on to the advance. He reports everything looks good ahead. . . . Billy Lee is kept busy handling the green paste boards on the front door. Lall Eggleston sprained his ankle 13. His place was filled by Billy Lee, singing clown. The stock is looking finely despite the hot weather and sandy roads. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 244.
    1892: Notes from Chas. Lee's London Show. Joseph LaLaFleur met with an accident June 21(?), while doing his equlibrist act. The pyramid of chairs was not solid, the ring being very soft, and in doing his backward drop from six chairs they leaned, and he got a very hard fall spraining his leg and bruising himself otherwise. He will be on the retired list for a week or so. Lee Howard, equestrian director, is considering an offer for next winter season as a equal partner in a boat show. M. F. Owens was on the sick list this week. Prof. Geo. Schrader is discoursing some very fine music with his No. 2 band. Prof. R. R. Mulcare had a sick spell last week. We are playing to fine business, and everyone is laying up the "blue papers." Assistant manager Hewitt is busy nowadays, and can always be seen with pencil or tickets in his hands. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lee's, . . . Pembroke Me. July 7, Eastport 8. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
    1892: Chas. Lee's London Shows. Every day down East is circus day. The show is playing to the biggest business in its history. The sideshow is playing from six to eight openings a day. . . . Billy Clifton, with his horse candy stand wagon, took an unexpected bath in the Kennebec River while ferrying last week. Joe La Fleur is working again after a week lay off from his injuries. At Bucksport the boys visited Fort Knox. We turned out six more iron grays at Rockland last week, which fill out the parade with forty four grays. We are down in Maine, from forty to fifty miles from a railroad . . . New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Chas. Lee's, Top Field ME July 13, Springfield 14, Lincoln 15. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lee's, Livermore Falls, Me. July 28, Canton 29, Bucksport(?) 30, Meehanic Falls Aug 1, Norway 2, Bethel 3. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lee's, Bridgton, Me. Aug 3, Raymond 4, Bar Mills 5 . . . North Berwick 8 . . . York Beach Me. 10, Hampton NH 11. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
    1892: Chas. Lee's London Shows. We are on our thirteenth week, and it is one of our best, despite hot weather and the old superstition of the dreaded 13. We are meeting with some opposition, but they fail to hurt our business. This is one of the best seasons that the London every played in, and it seems by all reports to be an off season for shows of our size. Mr. Lee was ahead last week, and reports everything fine. Joe Hewitt, our treasurer, will take out a burlesque company, opening in October, at New Market, Can. . . . Prof. Hager's Red Hussar Band is discoursing some of the finest music ever played with this show. Clifton and Eggleston's Band, No. 2, is the hit of the parade. Frank Acton(?) is forming a partnership with a triple bar performance. Mr. Lee has added to his already fine manegerie a fine specimen of Nova Scotia ibex. Reports from winter quarters say that everything is dressed in a new coat of paint. The new ring barn is one of the finest made. Mrs. Lee has purchased four new ponies, which she will break for next winter. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 356.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lee's, Portsmouth NH Aug 10, Erster 11, Amesbury MA 12, Haverhill 13 . . . Andover 16 . . . New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 361.
    1892: Wanted, a partner for triple horizontal bars. One that can do double from swing. Address Frank Acton, care of Lee's London Shows, Haverhill, Mass. Aug 13, after that care of Clipper. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 369.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lee's, . . . Concord MA Aug 18, Maynard 19, Hudson 20, Westboro 22, Worcester 23, Spencer 24. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 376.
    1892: [Ad] Frank W. Seamon and Jas. F. Burke, Japanese athletes, breakaway ladder perch, at present Chas. Lee's Great London Circus. At liberty after Oct. 8, 1892. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 383.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lee's London, New Haven CT Aug 31 . . . New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 409.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lee's, Northville NY Sep 14, Mayfield 15, Johnstown 16, Fonda 17, Fort Plain 19. New York Clipper, September 17, 1892, p. 443.
    1892: Notes from Chas. Lee's London Shows. We are in our twentieth week, and business continues good. Everyone is in perfect health. The stock is in fine shape. Two weeks more and we will be in winter quarters, and the season of 1892 will be booked as one of the best in the history of this show. Mr. Lee has the plans of his new house, which will be finished by Nov. 1. It is to be furnished will all the modern improvements. Mrs. Lee has returned to the show after an absence of two weeks. She is much improved, but is not yet able to work in the ring. Joe Hewitt has his company nearly completed. Lee Howard will work this winter with Bob Stinson(?), his old partner, under the name of Howard Bros. Seaman and Burk join Allen's New York Circus after the close of our show. Joe La Flower joines Dick Farnham, and they will be known as the Farnham Bros. Billy Clifton, knockabout clown, is booking his comedy company. Sam Scribner, of the Scribner & Smith Show, was a caller Sept. 6. H. A. Mann and advance corps were back and spent 10 with us. Lall Eggleston will work with Sam Harner(?) this season. They will be with one of the leading minstrel companies. Frank Acton will work with A. C. Manning the following season. Geo. H. Irving ("Punch") takes his old position as manager of the Wonderland Museum, Wilkesbarre, Pa., at the close of the show. Louis Beavais(?), one armed trick tumbler, is meeting with success. Mons. Wright, the "Young Sampson," met with an accident 10, pulling against a team of horses in the concert. One of the whittletrees broke, and shot back, hitting him in the side and knocking him down; but he is able to walk at present. New York Clipper, September 24, 1892, p. 456.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Chas. Lee's, Richfield Springs NY Sep 21 . . . New Berlin 23 . . . New York Clipper, September 24, 1892, p. 461.
    1892: From Lee's London Shows. . . . a twenty-three weeks' season, without an accident of any account. We go into winter quarters at Canton, Pa. Our shops, ring barn and all buildings are new. Mr. Lee will go to work at once painting and building for next season. Joe Hewitt, treasurer, will not open his burlesque company until after election. Geo. Irving and Mme. La Bell go to Wilkesbarre, Pa. Mr. Irving will fill his old position as manager of the Wonderland. . . . Lee Howard goes to Hot Springs for six weeks . . . Mr. Chryst intends to spend a week or so with him before opening at Chicago. Louis Beavins goes to Pawtucket, R.I., for a short rest. Joe La Fleur will go to Providence, R.I., and later on will open as one of the Farnum Bros. at Boston. Frank Acton leaves for New York City to join is new partner, W. A. Manning. Billy Clifton opens at Canton with his comedy company Nov. 12. . . . Lall Eggleston will be at Casenovia, N.Y., until after the election; then he will join Sm Harner. The band will go as follows: Prof. A. F. Hager, to Elmira . . . M. F. Owens, Woonsocket, R.I., Ed. Taylor, Towanda, Pa.; Geo. Schroder, Cleveland, O.; Al. Yoder, Williamstown, Pa.; Will Parker, Syracuse, N.Y. New York Clipper, October 8, 1892, p. 488.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lee's, Laceyville PA Oct 5, Wyalusing 6, New Albany 7 . . . New York Clipper, October 8, 1892, p. 489.
    1892: [Ad] At liberty, clarionettist, M. R. Owens, with Chas. Lee's London Shows will be at liberty after Oct. 8. New York Clipper, October 8, 1892, p. 497.
    1892: [Ad] Billy and Jessie Clifton as old rubber necks. Lee's Circus, winter quarters, Oct. 10. New York Clipper, October 8, 1892, p. 500.
    1892: H. A. Mann has closed with Chas. Lee's London Shows as general agent, and has joined the advance of Sparks & Allen's Great Eastern Circus. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 505.
    1892: Albert Sylvester, contortionist, closed with Chas. Lee's Great London Circus Oct. 8, and will play dates this winter. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 507.
    1892: W. G. Botsford closed with Chas. Lee's London Shows Oct. 8, at Monroeton, Pa. He goes to Jamestown, N.Y., for the winter. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 507.
    1892: H. A. Mann has signed with Chas. Lee's London Show for the season of 1893. New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 538.
    1892: The following musicians have signed with Chas. Lee's London Shows: Eugene Mack, Will Packer, M. F. Owens, Lall Eggleston and John Horner. New York Clipper, December 17, 1892, p. 654.
    1892: At the winter quarters of Chas. Lee's London Show everything is beginning to look like a new show. The wagons will be ready to go to the paintshop by Jan. 1. Four new cages will be added and a new tableau wagon for next season; also ten black horses on the new tableau wagon. The wardrobe for the parade will be new, and it is well under way. New designs for the paper are being drawn, and the band, under the dirction of Prof. Mack, will include fourteen pieces. New York Clipper, December 31, 1892, p. 686.

    1893: Circus business. The business office of Chas. Lee's London Shows is open for the season 1893. Wanted, boss canvas man, boss hostler, chandelier man, boss cook, 2, 4, 6 and 8 horse drivers, canvas men, etc. Address Chas. Lee, Box 176, Canton, Penn. P.S. Wanted 20 billposters. Address H. A. Mann, general agent, Imlay City, Michigan. New York Clipper, January 7, 1893, p. 713.
    1893: Among the people engaged for Lee's London Circus for next season: . . . Joe Tritch, Flo Tritch . . . Horner and Eggleston, Villon and Valletta, Louis Beauvais . . . Billy and Jennie Clifton . . . Will Parker, P. M. Rice . . . New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 755.
    1893: The following people have signed with Chas. Lee's London Circus: Charley Taylor . . . Geo. Stephens and Willie Howard. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
    1893: J. H. Hewitt, business manager of Chas. Lee's London Shows, has just returned from Toronto, Can., and has completed his arrangements for a tour of the country. The show will open at Canton, Pa., April 29(?). A car load of horses arrived at winter quarters from the West last week. Mr. Shumate will have charge of the stock this season. New York Clipper, March 11, 1893, p. 2.
    1893: Wanted, a cook, for Chas. Lee's London Shows, head cook who can run a cook tent. This is a wagon show, and 40(?) men eat at cook tent. Address Chas. Lee, Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, March 11, 1893, p. 14.
    1893: Notes from Chas. Lee's London Shows. Business continues highly satisfactory. The riding of W. H. Howard and Mme. ___ is met with ringing applause everywhere, as is the triple bar performance of McPhee and ___. A feature is our leaps, in which we have four double somersault leapers. . . . Jas. Burke, of Burke and Seamon, has been on the sick list for two weeks, laying off at Friendship. He will join us in a day or so. . . . New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
    1893: Nellie Leonard, of Lee's Circus, was thrown from her horse and seriously injured . . . No bones were broken, but she sustained internal injuries, the extent of which has not been verified. the doctors think she will recover. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
    1893: Chas. Lee's London Show notes. Mrs. Nellie Leonard was thrown from her horse at Dunkirk, N.Y., while in parade. The animal was scared by a bicycle. Mrs. Leonard was badly shaken up, but no bones were broken. Jas. Burke, of Seamon(?) and Burke, is again at work after three weeks . . . Mr. Lee is on the advance to surprise them with a brand new No. 3(?) four horse bill wagon, which makes __ horses on the advance. We are using all the paper that it is possible to carry. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
    1893: Wanted, circus musicians, B flat cornet player, solo alto player. Season lasts until October. Stop at first class hotels, and money sure. Address per route. Eugene Wack, band leader, Lee's Circus, Newark, N.J., July 4. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 276.
    1893: Wanted, circus performers, can use a talking, singing clown that can do a turn in concert. Chas. Lee London Circus, Sodus N.Y. July _, Walcott, N.Y. July 6, Cato N.Y. July 7, Baldwinsville July 8. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 293.
    1893: Charles Lee's Great London Show notes. Our business continues, as it has been all season, good. Nellie and Flora Leonard closed at Fairport, N.Y. Fusner(?), talking and singing clown, has joined, and is making a hit in parade as the farmer, being arrested and released twice at Marion, N.Y., for stopping the parade and making too many inquiries. Every performer goes into the ring wearing silk. . . . Fred Jones' clowning and the donkeys make a hit. We turn out a sixty horse parade, brass band, drum corps and jubilee singers, four of them. The Brunswick Japs are a great hit. They were called back at Spencerport and repeated their act. J. H. Hewitt, as usual, is kept busy in the wagon, settling arguments, paying bills, and trading horses. Billy Botsford and J. Zimmerman joined at Webster, N.Y. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: Chas. Lee's London Show notes. F. Durell joined at Baldwinsville. Nellie and Flora Leonard are not longer with the troupe. We had the heaviest rain of the season at Baldwinsville, Me. in the afternoon the show town was black with people. The tents were filled at night despite the mud. A dressing top blew down in the afternoon while all performers were under it. No one was injured. Mrs. Lee is busy breaking two fine greyhounds for hurdle races. The hit of our concert is the wrestling bear. A new cook tent and another new horse tent were put up last week. We have now all told forty-eight people at hotels and sixty on the lot. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Lee's, Pulaski NY July 12, Sandy Creek 13, Adams 14 . . . Constableville 17 . . . New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: Notes of Lee's London Shows. Our afternoon business fell off some last week on account of farmers haying, but the night business was big in every town. Our advance were all back to bill the show at Mexico, N.Y., where, but the way, the Gallagher Show went to pieces. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
    1893: Wanted, sideshow people, man and wife that can do Punch and second sight and make opening. Also B cornet, solo cornet and piccolo for band. Address Chas. Lee, manager London Circus, Richfield Springs, N.Y. July 24, Cooperstown 25. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 324.
    1893: Chas. T. Orville has joined Lee's Circus. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
    1893: Notes from Lee's London Shows. . . . James Davis, double drummer, was called to his home, Scranton, Pa., to attend the funeral of his brother, who was accidently killed. . . . New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Lee's, . . . Davenport NY July 27 . . . Middleburg 29 . . . Quaker Street Aug 1, Altamont 2, Greenbush 3. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 329.
    1893: Notes from the Lee Show. W. B.(?) Clifton, knockabout clown, dislocated his shoulder recently and will be laid off for some time. His place is being filled by Fanny(?) Durrell. Wm. Howard, our rider, fell from his horse while doing a somersault, and sprained his ankle. Our afternoon houses continue fair only, while at night we can hardly find capacity for the people. Lall Eggleston is also on the "laid off" list through being bitten in the nose by one of the monkeys. Blood poisoning is feared. Our stock is in fine condition and everything is running smoothly. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
    1893: [Ad] The Cliftons, at liberty, Oct. 1, for circus or hall show. Business knockabout clown, stilt act, leaps, tumbling, Dutch and Irish character sketch artists, serio comic, character and fancing ???. Work on salary, privileges, or percentage. Address Wm. H. and Jessie Clifton, care Lee's London Circus, Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 474.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Lee's, Mansfield PA Sep 28 . . . Canton 30. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 479.
    1893: Mamie Clayton, mind reader, assisted by Prof. Chamberlain, are with Chas. Lee's London Circus. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 483.
    1893: Notes from Lee's London Shows. We go into winter quarters Sept. 30, after a season's business away ahead of all expectations. The show played every stand a winner, which is something great, considering the expense of carrying one hundred people and eighty head of stock through the country. Every wagon, cage and carriage will be refitted and repainted this winter. New wardrobe will be made, and the show will be as bright as a new dollar in the Spring of 1894. Our roster: Chas. Lee, manager; J. H. Hewett, business manager; R. ?. Rogers, manager of side show; H. A. Mann, general agent; Ben Tuthill, contracting agent; Mrs. Chas. Lee, Scamon and Burke, Louis Beauvais, Wm. H. Howard, Harry Hill, Chas. McPhee and wife . . . F. Durell, Billy Clifton, Jessie Clifton, Sam Horner, L. Eggleston . . . C. E. Chamberlin and wife, Mamie Clayton, F. Daney, Jas. Wood, H. Moreland, Eugene Marck, musical director . . . W. Parker, Geo. Stephens, P. M. Rice, Chas. Bratton . . . Jud. Rogers . . . and P. Orr and wife. A large family gathering that will scatter to the four winds Sept. 30. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 483.
    1893: Notes from Chas. Lees' winter quarters. The great London will be greatly enlarged for 1894. A beautiful cage is being built for Mme. Clayton's performing serpents, ten in number; also a new tableau wagon for the street parade. Wardrobe will be entirely new, of the richest material. Two cages of wild beasts will be added to menagerie. Philip Miller, with his sensational act, has been engaged, and Walter Gibson has signed for the rube clown. Prof. Wack and band will be featured and special paper got out for them. All new and original paper will be used next season, and it is our intention to make it one of the largest and strongest wagon shows in America. J. H. Hewitt, the assistant business manager, has just returned from the World's Fair. Lall Eggleston will hole his old position next season, having charge of the privileges, fifth season. The winter quarters have all been painted new in red and yellow. Our canvas will all be new, from the main entrance to the cook tent. Mr. Hewitt has just finished up his books for the season of '93, and finds the balance on the right side of the ledge. New York Clipper, November 11, 1893, p. 577.
    1893: Notes from Lee's London Shows. Our new paint shop will be finished about Dec. 2?, when we will commence repainting all cages, baggage wagons and conveyances. . . . Mr. Lee has just closed a big contract for all new descriptive and pictorial paper for next season, which will be up to date. Wild Elk and ___, with her five unbreakable mustangs, have signed. J. H. Hewitt is busy preparing exaggerations for the advance brigade for the coming season. New York Clipper, December 16, 1893, p. 659.

    1894: Notes from Chas. Lee's winter quarters. . . . Our new ticket wagon will go to the paint shop next week, and three cages are almost completed. Joe Patterson will have charge of our canvas next season. New York Clipper, January 6, 1894, p. 703.
    1894: Chas. Lee's London Shows. Recent additions for 1894 are . . . C. ?. Chamberlain, Mamie(?) Chamberlain . . . and Wiley Ferris and wife. Chas. Lee is laid up with la grippe. Painters and cage builders have arrived. Will commence re-building about Jan. 1. New York Clipper, January 6, 1894, p. 704.
    1894: Chas. Lee's Great London Shows. Wanted, for season of 1894, circus acts for big show, troupe of Arabs or Japs, talking and singing clown, side show and concert people, bill posters, lithographers, head cook, boss hostler, 1 trap drummer, musicians who are sight readers and play grade 4 and 5. As everything will be brand new for 1894 . . . Bill posters address H. A. Mann, Imlay City, Mich. Others address Chas. Lee, Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, January 6, 1894, p. 713.
    1894: These people have signed with Chas. Lee's London Shows: Seaman and Burke, the Brunswick Japs, Oscar Jones, musical director; Al. W. Herrick, J. T. Kyle, Walter James . . . W. F. Wallace, Mlle. Florentine . . . and Ed. M. Reed, and John Whalen, boss hostler. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
    1894: James ?. McMorris, musician, has changed his mind and will not go with the Chas. Lee's Show, but will be with the Sells Bros. Shows for season of 1894. New York Clipper, February 10, 1894, p. 787.
    1894: Thos. ?. Finn, ventriloquist and magician, has signed with Chas. Lee's London Shows for next season. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 801.
    1894: A sacrifice. Parade and entree wardrobe. Lady side saddles, new; 4 nickel helments, brass dragoon ornaments, vizor, etc.; 4 red cloth helments, brass trimmings; _ white leather helmets, nickel mounting; _ Mardi Gras heads with dresses, new; _ Roman knight coats, spangled, black velvet; _ horse trappings, spangled, black velvet . . . 1 monkey dress, 3 red cloth property coats. $__ takes the lot. Have also good tents and lights for sale cheap. J. Hewitt, Canton, Bradford County, Pa. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 808.
    1894: Roster of Chas. Lee's Great London Shows. Chas. Lee, manager; Joe Hewitt, treasurer and business manager; H. A. Mann, general agent; H. L. Rogers, general superintendent; Mrs. Chas. Lee, charge of reserved seats; L. Eggleston, concert tickets; W. H. Clifton, candy stands; Frank Seaman(?), equestrian director; Lee Howard, wardrobe and parage; Oscar Jones, musical director; Harry ?ubb, lithographer and bugle brigade; J. R. Raymond, handles the paper with twelve billposters; Ben Wallack, charge of elephants, camels, zebras and a pair of dromedaries; Harry Moreland, general animal man; Joe Peterson, master of big top; John McGraw, side show top . . . Fred Jones, ring stock; John Whalen, boss hostler . . . B. F. Goodnough, charge of camp Lee; L. Eggleston, charge hotel people . . . W. H. Howard, outside ticket man with the big show and charge of banners; C. E. Chamberlain, side show lecturer; Thos. Finn and W. F.(?) Wallace, outside talkers for side show; Mrs. Chas. Lee's dogs and ponies; Seaman and Burke, gymnasts and equlibrists; Brunswick Japs, breakaway ladder, hat spinning, tumblers and leapers; Willie Howard, bounding jockey and Indian act; Durell, swinging perch and balancing ladder . . . Lee Howard, iron jaw and Mexican knife dive; Wiley Ferris, equilibrist and leaper; Lillie(?) Trevanion, high wire and Spanish dance; Sylvester, human vampire . . . Ed. M. Reed, talking and singing clown and concert; Running Elk and ___ Wild West; Billy Clifton, knockabout clown and stilt act; Jessie Clifton, character change soubrette and dancer; L. Eggleston, principal clown; Florentine, juggler; Robt. Howland, principal bareback; Marie Marvelle(?), principal and tandem manege . . . Mamie Clayton, snake charmer and albino . . . W. F. Wallace, glass stands; C. E. Chamberlain and wife, second sight and trained birds . . . Tullus(?) Wright, feats of strength; Buckskin Jack and wrestling bear. Band: Oscar Jones, leader; Walter James, M. F. Owens, Ed. Fisher, S. S. Rice, Chas. Bratton, Al. Herrick, Thos. Riley, L. Howard . . . John ?. Moyer, Frank Seaman, J. Burke and L. Eggleston. We have built ___ new cages and one new four horse coach. Everything from the advance wagons to the clown carts is being painted, and will be as bright as colors can make them. Our new paper is completed, and the coming season will see in the Lee's Shows a circus equipped up to date in every department, with attractions that will no doubt delight our amusement loving patrons. It takes one hundred head of stock to transport the shows. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
    1894: Seamon and Burke, gymnasts, closed a prosperous season of over ten months and will rest a few weeks at their home, New Brunswick, N.J., before resuming their tour with Chas. Lee's London Shows. They closed at Acola, Fla., March 10. Their act is said to have met with success in the South. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
    1894: Notes from Chas. Lee's Shows. H. A. Mann, our general agent, has sent in his first three weeks' contract. He states that prospects look favorable, and that the country is not as near bankruptcy as some people imagine. The paste brigade leave 14(?). Everything about the winter quarters is completed and we never were so well equipped not __ strong as this season. The latest acquisitions are: A. W. Cole, baritone; Alf. Allen, clarionet soloist; Ryan and Norwood, acrobats . . . All musicians and performers stop at hotels. The show opens April 28 at Canton, Pa. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 87.
    1894: On the road, circuses: Charles Lee's, Canton PA Apr 28, Troy 30, Gillett(?) May 1, Elmira NY 2, Horseheads 3. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 114.
    1894: Reading, Pennsylvania. George W. Arlington will leave 24(?) to join Lee's Circus at Canton, O. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
    1894: On the road, circuses: Charles Lee's, Elmira NY May 2, Horsehead 3. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 130.
    1894: Notes from Chas. Lee's London Circus. Chas. Lee's London Cricus opened their season April 28, at Canton, Pa., to large business, in the rain. The show is the most complete twenty five cent show on the road, carrying forty-two hotel people and sixty-five on the lot. The performance went off the same as though we had been running two months. The band in in fine shape and is one of the best this company has had. It is under the direction of Prof. ?. Jones. . . . We open with eight horse entree, and our programm consists of swinging perch, pyramid act, trick ponies, double traps, riding dogs, triple bars, juggling, bounding jockey, ring(?) contortionists, barrel kicking, break away ladder, 3 brother act, troupe of dogs and performing donkeys, and closing with leaps. Mr. Seaman is doing a fine double somersault this season. The concert is under the management of Lall Eggleston and is one of the best this show has carried. The side show has a 100ft. round top with 40(?)ft. middle piece, five cages of animals, two camels and one of the largest elephants on exhibition. Performers: strong man, Albinos(?), mind reader, Zulus, Punch and Judy, magician, snake charmer, performing birds and glass blowers. Treasurer Joe Hewitt's smiling face is in the ticket wagon the same as ever. He says there are no hard times, and he is kept busy handling paste boards. Seamon(?) and Burke have lost only two weeks out of a year. They jumped from Florida from the "Sparks" show to open here with their breakaway ladder. Manager Lee is well pleased with the show and the business we are doing. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.

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

Lee & Scribner - 1884

    Lee & Scribner’s New York Pavilion Show. Officers - Proprietors, Sam A. Scribner and Chas. Lee; treasurer, Harry Robinson; agent, Billy Munson, with four assistants; manager of sideshow, Hal Reynolds; leader of orchestra, Wm. Leffingwell; leader of band, A. C. Wallace. Clowns - Charley Lee and Billy Burton. Company - Corvella and Courtney, trapeze and brother act; Leopold and Benson, horizontal bar; Watson Bros., contortionists and posturing; Walter Tarrell, iron jaw; Bobby Munroe and Billy Ellis, son-and-dance; Maggie Nichols, slack wire and character dancer; Nora Stone, balancing trapeze; Louise Garnet, song-and-dance. Sideshow performers are Zuleika Lutti, Circassian lady; Mattie Lee, fat woman; Lolo, aerial sleeper; Prof. Zela, sleight-of-hand, Punch-and-Judy, birds, snakes, monkeys, etc. Size of canvas 80 ft. round top; sideshow tent 40 x 60 ft.; ten canvasmen and 20 head of horses. Show travels by wagon. New York Clipper, May 3, 1884. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Lemen Bros.' Shows - 1890-94, 1900

    1890: Wanted for Lemen Bros.' Railroad Shows, people in all branches of the circus business. A No. 1 band of seven mouthpieces, that double string for concert, and other musicians. Reliable advance ____. Boss canvasman. . . . Want to buy a baggage car and a sleeper. Address Lemen Bros. Shows, __ Lamar Avenue, Denison, Tex. N. B. Also wanted, a lady snake Charmer, must have her own snakes. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 13.
    1890: Lemen Bros.' Circus can make room for a few more performers and a principal bar man; must leap and tumble. Solo cornetist and concert people. Privileges for sale. E. Baldwin, equestrian manager, permanent address Denison, Texas. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 128.
    1890: Wanted, for Lemen Bros.' Railroad Shows, people in all branches of the circus business. Parties having circus cars for sale please write. . . . sideshow and candy stand privileges for sale. Address Lemen Bros.' Shows, Pacific Hotel, Kansas City, Mo., until July 1. New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 255.
    1890: This is the twelfth week of the Lemen Bros.' Show this season. Business has been big everywhere. The "Royal Spectre" appearing every Sunday morning, rain or shine, and everybody is happy. The show is composed of the following: . . . twelve cages, two elephants, three riding dogs, etc. Lemen Bros., proprietors and managers; Ed. Baldwin, equestrian director; Prof. Fred Morrison, trainer of animals; Dave Howard, boss hostler; Ed. Scott, master of canvas . . . John Gilbert, Ike Porter and ten assistants in advance; Rome(?) Emery and Ed. Baldwin . . . the Brothers Cole, Ralph(?) Entow . . . Albert W. West; Prof. Warren; Tommy Mack . . . Lillie Loyal; Jennie Pearl . . . Prof. Lemen and ten musicians in the band. We travel by rail, and have seven flat cars, three stock cars and two sleepers. We have twenty head of horses and forty working men. New York Clipper, July 26, 1890, p. 307.
    1890: Wanted, for Lemen Bros.' Circus and Menagerie, performers in all branches circus business, including concert people and sideshow freaks. Also lady snake charmer with her own snakes and few more good musicians. Address for ten days Lemen Bros.' Show, care Blair Bros., Sedalia, Mo. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 367.
    1890: Waco, Texas. Lemen Bros.' Circus drew fair audiences Sept. 12, 13. This show has been greatly enlarged and improved of late. Their collection of animals now reaches ten cages. . . . New York Clipper, September 27, 1890, 454.
    1890: The Lemen Bros.' Shows are said to be eclipsing all previous efforts, both financially and artistically. The show has nearly doubled in size since its opening. Nine cages of animals, twenty head of horses, a new menagerie tent, 65ft.(?) round top, with three __ft. middle pieces are recent additions. Every one is well fixed with good health and plenty of the wherewithal. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 468.

    1891: Frank Lemon, of the Lemon [sic] Brothers' Show, is at present in the East, looking up attractions and securing additions to his circus for the coming season. He ___ to spend his spare moments very pleasantly at the Barnum headquarters, getting a few points, besides vastly enjoying a visit to W. W. Cole the retired showman, with whom he was employed for several seasons. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
    1891: Frank Lemen of the Lemen Brothers’ show was in New York, several days recently, and left Saturday for Denison, Tex., the headquarters of the show. While here Mr. Lemen made large purchases of stock, cars, cages, wardrobe, animals, etc. The Lemen Brothers’ show will be enlarged in every department. Hard work is now being done at Headquarters. New York Dramatic News, February 14, 1891.
    1891: The Lemen Bros.' Show opens at Kansas City, Mo., the latter part of April. Frank Lemen was in New York several days recently, and left Feb. 7 for Dennison, Tex., the headquarters of the show. While here, Mr. Lemen made large purchases of stock, cars, cages, wardrobe, animals, etc. The Lemen Bros.' Show will be in big shape the coming season, and will be enlarged in every department. Hard work is now being done at headquarters. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 795.
    1891: Wanted, for Lemen Bros.' Railroad Circus, Menagerie and Free Horse Fair, 50 ladies for the ballet, lady aerial artist, lady snake charmer. Also performers in all branches circus businees. Band of eight mouth pieces ___ double in string. Railroad contractor, twenty billposters, __ canvasmen. Sideshow and candy stand privileges for sale. Show opens in April, Kansas City, Mo. Address Lemen Bros., Winter Quarters, ___, Kansas. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 815.
    1891: Lemon Bros. are fitting out their circus at Argentine, a suburb across the Kansas line. Their season opens at Kansas City, Mo., early in April. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
    1891: Kansas City, Missouri. Wm. Sell's Circus exhibits 11-14. Lemen Bros. Circus opened its season here 8-10, and gave very creditable performances to good turnouts. . . . New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 171.
    1891: Kansas City, Missouri. Sells Bros. billed for June 1, plenty of "wait" paper up for Forepaugh's coming in July. Lemen Bros.' Circus are entering their third week of prosperity having covered nearly every lot in town during their stay. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 183.
    1891: Lemen Bros.' Circus, which opened its season at Kansas City, Mo., May _, has just concluded a profitable three weeks' engagement in that city, and began its tour of the Southwest. The roster: John J. Holland, general agent; Rod Hyer, contracting agent; Frank Rosenthal, boss billposter; John Babcock, boss canvasman. Performers: Maretta Sisters, May Crittenden, Dayton Sisters . . . Herman George, Dixon Bros., Ed. Craig . . . L. Mayo, Wm. Chase, Al. Ferney, Gus Clarke. . . Burt Peters and Wyndam(?) Church. The band of ten pieces is in charge of Prof. Al. Parker. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
    1891: Kansas City, Missouri. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Watson closed with the Lemen Circus here, and left at once for their home, Jackson, Mich. Mr. Watson is suffering from a slight fracture of the knee, but expects, after a few weeks' rest, to resume his ___. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 199.
    1891: St. Joseph, Missouri. Lemen Bros. Circus showed here 30(?), 31(?) to fair business. They had a collision with a passenger train as they were pulling into the yards here, and several persons were injured, but not seriously. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 199.
    1891: Decatur, Illinois. Lemen Bros.' Circus gave two performances 3(?) to well filled tents. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
    1891: Notes from Lemen Bros.' Show. In your issue of Sept. 19, you class the Lemen Bros.' Show as a 10, 20 and 30 cent show. This is a mistake, for we have not showed for less than 25 cents since we left Kansas City, Mo., last May, and only a very few stands at that price. Fifty cents has been the admission price in four-fifths of the stands we have made, and it will never be less. We are now in our twenty-second week, and business has been double any previous season. There are only two days in each week that there is any trouble with the show - one is Monday, when the boys are hustling for paper money to exchange for silver, and the other is Saturday, when they are hunting for the Clipper; but they manage to get a batch of both. We have had only one wreck, and one blow down. Neither was serious. The outfit as it stands today: Frank and Frost Lemen, sole proprietors; Edward Cambell, manager; Geo. H. Hines, assistant manager; John H. Holland, general contracting agent, with twelve assistants; Harry Potter, boss billposter, and brigade of fourteen; James Webb, boss canvasman; Wm. Bell, master of transportation, Geo. Johnson, boss hostler, and twelve assistants . . . Chas. Jersey, boss property man, with six assistants . . . Maretta Sisters, Rose and May; Dayton Sisters, Maud and Gretta; Attwood Sisters, Blanche and Lulu; May Crittendon; Flossie Egbert . . . Rome, Emery and Herman Greggs; Mazello Bros., Vic and William; the three Westland Brothers . . . Bernardo and Tyson; Chas. Holland; Carl Charles . . . Wm. ?. Phelps; Horace Copeland . . . Mike Stevens; Ted Greeley; Master Artie; Billy Chase . . . Jean Durand; Harry Easton; Geo. Gibbons . . . Bertie Gayton; Ned Clancy; Debar and Holmes; Bessie Brown; Billy Morse . . . Madam Alberta . . . Prof. Herndon . . . and Frank Rosenthal. Prof. Al Parker and his twenty solo musicians furnish the outfit with music. We have . . . eleven cars, eleven cages of animals, eighty-two horses and mules, four Shetland ponies, two elephants, trained and handled by Prof. Fred Morrisson. It is the intention of the Lemen Bros. to double the above for next season. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
    1891: Young Alburtus, juggler and club expert, closed with Lemen Bros.' Circus, at San Marius(?), Tex., and has doubled with Claude Bartram. They will play the coast. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 571.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Lemen Bros., Sherman, Tex, Dec. 3. New York Clipper, December 5, 1891, p. 653.
    1891: The advance car No. 1, of Lemen Bros.' Show, closed it season at Sherman, Tex., Nov. 18. The second brigade closed 26(?). The following were some of the people that represented the show: John J. Holland, general agent; C. W. Scott, railroad contracting agent; Harry Potter, local contractor . . . billposters: J. W. Westbrook, Henry Smith, Al. Merritt, Joseph Hicks, Henry Spicer, Will Davis, John Reeve, Ed. Huges, Wm. Polk and J. H. Palmer(?). O?. Young had charge of the second brigade, with four billposters: Geo. Danes, James Brown, A. C. Dunbar and Alex Clark. The general agent went on from the show, paid all the boys and gave all free transportation to their respective homes. A good many of the boys have already signed contracts to be with the big show next season. The season closed Dec. 3, after which the show will make a run of seven hundred miles to their own winter quarters at Argentine, Kas. Next season the show will be enlarged to twenty cars and two advance cars. A hippodrome will be put on, instead of the spectacular. Mr. Lemen is going to send two of his representatives to Kentucky to look for blooded race stock. He is also going to send to foreign climes for animals. New York Clipper, December 12, 1891, p. 664.
    1891: The Lemen Bros.' Show arrived at winter quarters at Argentine, Kan., Dec. 5. It was one of the coldest days of the season. Snow was falling, and the thermometer registered one degree above zero, but, with the help of four big stoves, the quarters were kept very comfortable. The elephants came near getting chilled, but at present they are doing well. The stock are fat after their long season. L. C. Dessert and his two assistants left for San Francisco 3. They sail from there 15 for India to bring back a cargo of animals and some sideshow freaks. It is the intendtion of Lemen Bros. to put out a big show next year. The show will be enlarged in every department. New York Clipper, December 19, 1891, p. 683.
    1891: J. B. Gaylord, the well known circus agent, is in the city, visiting his niece, the wife of Dr. Sol Smith. Mr. Gaylord is on his way to India and adjacent countries to fill orders for animals for various shows, and for the New York and St. Louis Zoological Gardens. He is accompanied by L. C. Dessert, agent for the Lemon [sic] Brothers' Circus. Mr. dessert goes with Mr. Gaylord in the interest of his employers, and will return with as many attractions as it is possible to gather within the short time assigned to him for the work. He will return to this country in March, and proposes to have his menagerie open the coming season. New York Clipper, December 19, 1891, p. 683.

    1892: Wanted, for Lemen Bros.' Railroad Show, Menagerie, Museum, Hippodrome, brother act, roller skating act, triple bar act, a return flying trapeze act, a band of nine mouth pieces to double in string . . . and sideshow curiosities, a few billposters. Billposters address John H. Holland, Kansas City, Mo. Address Lemen Bros., Argentine, Kansas. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 853.
    1892: The Lemen Bros. Combined Shows, consisting of circus, menagerie and hippodrome, with a gigantic elephant that is said to out-Jumbo "Jumbo," will make a very "fetching" appearance when the season opens. The addition of several cages and the increased size of the show necessitates the use of five more cars than heretofore. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
    1892: Harry A. Gray has been engaged as chief lithographer with Lemen Bros.' Circus. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
    1892: Prof. Walter Wilson, leader of orchestra; A. D. Ford, leader of band; and Ben Kahn, cornetist, all of ___ Theatre, Memphis, Tenn., have signed with Lemen Bros., for the tenting season. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
    1892: Several cages of animals, including four African lions and a number of other valuable specimens have just been added to the Lemen Bros.' Show at Argentine, Kas. This organization will open the season April __. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
    1892: Melrose Bros. have signed with Lemon [sic] Bros.' Shows. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 82.
    1892: Kansas City, Missouri. Lemen Bros.' Show spread tents here May 7. . . . New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 134.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lemen Bros., Kansas City MO May 7, Atchinson KS 10. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
    1892: Kansas City, Missouri. Lemen Bros. erected tents in ??? Park ? and a large crowd gathered to see the performance when officers stepped up on the scene and declared that their permit to show on this ___ spot was in error, and no performance was given. Ground was secured in another part of the city and uninterrupted performances were given to big crowds. . . . New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 146.
    1892: Kansas City, Missouri. Lemen Bros. brought suit against the city for $___ damages for revoking their license to show at Shelley Park, after the show had been billed and tents pitched for the performance. The show was ___ to the West side, and the performance was given 7(?) to a big tentful. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
    1892: Notes from the Lemen Bros.' New Colossal Shows. We opened our season at Argentine, Kan., April 30(?) to one of the largest crowds ever under a canvas in that section, and have done a big business ever since, considering the weather. The show is brand new in every detail. The following is a list of the outfit: One hundred and twenty foot round top, two fifty foot middle pieces, one eighty foot round top, two thirty foot middle pieces, one sixty foot round top, two twenty foot middle pieces, one eighty foot round top dressing room, five horse tents, two cook tents, sixteen sixty foot cars, ninety-five head of dapple gray horses, twenty small mules and ponies, fourteen cages of animals, Rajah, the largest elephant on earth, and Albert, the best trained elephant in the world, and the finest den of cub lions ever born. Frank and Frost(?) Lemen, sole proprietors . . . J. H. Holland, general agent; L.(?) H. Scott, railroad contractor. . . Walter Kelly, lithographer; Ed. Ford, treasurer; Harvey Potter, superintendent of cook tents . . . Wm. Bell, master of canvas, with forty-six men; Ed. White, in charge of lights . . . Fred Morrison, superintendent of trained animals; Bert Scott, master of transportation . . . circus performers; Dan Leon, equestrian director and bareback rider; Maretta Sisters, Rose and Mary, aerialists; Jesse Leon, rider . . . Holcomb Sisters, Gertie and Bertie, double jockey riding act; Mary Crittendon and Frank Cameo, return act; three Melrose Brothers, Willie, John and Will; Chris. Wertz, princiapl leaper and tumbler . . . Max Melette, Rome Emery, Frank Bernardo . . . Geo. Seagrave, Sterling Zazell, Ed. Phillips, Gus Downan . . . Prof. A. Parker's band of twenty-two solo musicians, Ed. Nix, caliope [sic] player. Concert people: Harry Hackel, Al. Gleason, Ryan Sisters, Trixey Howard, Tillie Webster . . . Ike Weeks, and Gussie Forster. Sideshow people: Frank Rosenthal, lecturer; Harry Nelson . . . Alec. McGibbon . . . The candy stands are in charge of Harry Greenburne. Everybody is happy and healthy. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Lemen Bros., Beatrice Neb. June 1, Lincoln 2, Council Bluffs IA 3, Omaha Neb. 4. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
    1892: The Lemen Bros.' Show are now in the eighth week of the most successful season thus far ever experienced by the above management. The Odell Bros., Ed. and Harry, and Ed. Lamar joined at Omaha June 2. We have just added ten dapple gray horses. The ring performance is up to the top notch. Chas. Wertz is doing some wonderful leaping and tumbling. Ferris and Mellette and the Melrose(?) Bros. are doing elegant work. In fact, every one with the show is full of ginger. Rose and May Maretta cause a sensation at every performance. All are happy and healthy. Money orders are the order of the day every Monday. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
    1892: One of the most destructive rain and wind storms of the season swept down upon Clarksville, Mo., July 2, and much property was destroyed. The Lemon [sic] Bros.' Circus, which was exhibiting there, has just begun their programme when the fierce wind struck the tent and crushed the canvas in against the seats with terrific force, thoroughly terrifying the audience. Prompt action on the part of the circus people in putting out lights and holding the canvas as much as possible saved many lives, although several were considerably bruised, while Wm Bell, of Dennison, Tex., the boss canvas man, was knocked insensible by a falling pole and was seriously injured. Before the crowd could all get out into the drenching rain, the large tent collapsed and fell to the ground. The sideshow tent was also blown down, damaging much of the property. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
    1892: Walter Wilson and A. D. Ford, musicians, closed with Lemen Bros.' Circus . . . New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
    1892: Wanted, for Lemen Bros.' New Colossal Railroad Show, circus people in all branches, also sideshow and concert people, agents, billposters and railroad contractor. Co. Steer and wife, write. Want to buy, a sleeping car. Pana, Ill. July 26, Clinton, Ill., July 30. Lemen Bros. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 318.
    1892: The O'Dell Bros., having dissolved partnership, Eddie O'Dell will hereafter work alone. He is now with Lemen Bros.' Circus in Texas. New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 538.
    1892: Information is wanted of Chas. Dormon, who when last hear of was with Lemon [sic] Bros.' circus. He has been reported dead, and his mother is prostrated with grief. Harry Reed, of Chippewa Lake, Mich., makes the inquiry in her behalf. New York Clipper, November 12, 1892, p. 570.
    1892: Lemen Bros.' Show closed its season at Cleburne, Tex., Nov. 23, and has gone into winter quarters at Argentine, Kan. The management will make its headquarters at Argentine from now until the first of the year, after which it will open up an office at Kansas City The advance car, No. 1, closed 2 and the box brigade 16. New York Clipper, December 3, 1892, p. 624.
    1892: Eddie O'Dell, contortionist and acrobat, has closed a twenty-nine weeks' engagement with Lemen Bros.' Circus. New York Clipper, December 10, 1892, p. 641.

    1893: Lemen Bros.' New Colossal Railroad Show. Wanted, people in all branches of the business. Riders, gymnasts, acrobats, male and female, aerialists, clowns, band of ten mouthpieces, must all double in string for concert; bagpipers, calliope player; also a few more billposters, sideshow and concert people, male and female artists for sideshow. We want to buy another advance car. Address Lemen Bros., Argentine, Kansas. P.S. Performers and musicians fed at hotels. First two weeks' salary retained as security. All must dress well and obey the strictest rules or pay the penalty. No fares advanced. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 826.
    1893: Wanted, three brother act, triple bar team, six skirt dancers, also snake charmer, albinos, long haired ladies, sideshow talker and Punch and Judy man. Route: Ft. Dodge, Iowa, June 3, Forest City 5, Albert Lee [sic], Minn. 6, Waterville 7, Northfield 8. Lemen Bros. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 210.
    1893: Dallas, Texas. Lemen Bros.' Circus came to crowded tents 19. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 483.

    1894: C. W. Scott, formerly railroad contractor with Lemen Bros.' Railroad Show, has accepted a position to take care of a string of ring stock with that show. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 801.
    1894: Charley Madden has been engaged as clown and press agent with the Lemen Bros.' Show. New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 37. 1894: Wanted, for the Lemen Bros.' New Colossal Railroad Shows, a few more people for circus business, riders, tumblers, leapers and a 2(?) brother act. All must leap and tumble. Also concert and side show people of every description. All business positions filled, and no privileges to let. Address Frank Lemen, Argentine, Kansas. New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 45.
    1894: Car No. 1 of the Lemen Bros.' Shows left Argentine, Kan., April 20(?). The roster of the car follows: General agent, Walter Nichols; local contractor, J. B.(?) Allan; in charge of car and press agent . . . billposters, Jacob Fogel . . . W. A. Brown . . . lithographer, Harry Gray, and paste maker, Ed Combs. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.
    1894: On the road, circuses: Lemen's, Council Bluffs IA May 17. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.

    1900: Gave two performances at St. John's, P. Q., Thursday, June 21. . . . While approaching the show grounds, one could see on the sidings the long line of railway cars, all painted with the brightest of colors. . . . Entering the long tent, and once past the privilege man, one came face to face with the finest collection of animals and wagons ever seen under a tent. The menagerie was simply great, and the wagons showed resplendent in silver and gold. The big show opened with a grand entry . . . Among the features deserving special mention was the only Edna Cooke, bareback somersault rider, who accomplished nothing but the most difficult feats known to the profession, with ease, finish and originality. . . . Then came the Miller family, bicyclists and aerialists, . . . and George Kline, the original bareback mule rider, who kept the audience in an uproar. P. Bouchard. St. Johns, P. Q., June 24. Billboard, June 30, 1900, p. 5.
    Ottawa, Can., Aug 9 - Lemon Bros., whose circus is now touring Canada, have been fined $1,200 by the Customs Department for bringing a quantity of printed matter into Canada without paying duty. Billboard, August 25, 1900.

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Lewis Bros. Circus - 1935, 1972-1973

    1935: Paul Lewis, owner. J. King Ross had the aftershow and worked menage horses, was assistant equestrian director. Ross said that Paul Lewis used to fight as "Sailor Lewis," which is where he got the name for the show. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 40, 1973, p. 6.
    1973: To debut, April 1973, John Lewis, owner, formerly with Hoxie Bros. Circus. Title previously used 1930-40s by Paul Lewis. Show to travel on six trucks. A 60 ft. round top with two 30 ft. middles; 60 x 40 ft. sideshow. Program to have animal acts; juggling, trampoline and cowboy marksman. Equipment: semi, elephant and horse; semi, poles, canvas, seats; light plant; sideshow cages and tent; snake show; bus sleeper and cookhouse; pick-up with sound truck and purchasing agent. Animals: 1 elephant, 2 llamas, 1 zebra, 1 midget pony, 2 ponies, 3 horses, 1 bear, 1 lion, 2 baboons, 2 monkeys. Circus Report, Vol. 1, No. 45, 1972, p. 1.
    1973: Purchased the Madden's Toby Circus and their elephant, Sheba. Circus Report, Vol. 1, No. 47, 1972, p. 5.
    John Lewis and Jim Silverlake of Clark & Walters formed partnership in the Lewis Bros. Circus at Mission, Texas in December 1972. Winterquarters at Medora, Indiana, former home of Clark & Walters and Fisher Bros., both owned by Silverlake family. Lewis Bros. currently has one elephant. Show to start with 60 ft. round top with two 30 ft. middles, later to have a new top, 70 ft. round with two 40 ft. middles. To move on six trucks. Show to have a free wild animal menagerie. Circus Report, Vol. 1, No. 51, 1972, p. 2.
    1973: Acts: Haig Family, risley, loop walking, high diving dog, mechanical riding act; Ron Perry, slide for life, wire walker, juggling, plate spinning, wife did web and ladders; Diane Wilson, seals, macaws, baboons; David Terrill, producing clown; Bobby Green, band leader, calliope player; Bob Styles, drummer. Staff: John Lewis, owner, sound truck; Jim Silverlake, owner, electrician; Marlyn Silverlake, office mgr.; David Rawls, concessions; Jim Windland, snake & ape shows; Myrna Radcliff. To open in Indiana, tour midwest then southern states. Show added another middle, now 60 ft. wide by 120 ft. long, 9 ft. sidewalls. Midway to have ape and snake shows, concessions. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 2, 1973, p. 2.
    1973: Silverlake split with Lewis, planned to take Lewis Bros. out by himself. Show to have a 60 ft. round top with one 30 ft. middle. Lewis leased some of the equipment to Silverlake, including the title, an elephant and other livestock. Lewis returned to Hoxie Bros. as assistant manager to John Hall. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 14, 1973, p. 1.
    1973. Operated by Mel and Marly Silverlake, had a new power plant, ordered an extra tent middle, built eight high blues. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 16, 1973, p. 2.
    1973: Cross Country Davis, big top; Jim Windland, ape show; Sandy Windland, ape show; Gerald Monday, press agent on show; Dot Miller, contracting agent; Chet Cain, lithographer; Art Miller "Doc," general agent. Had a historic four wheel ticket wagon owned by Brownie and Josephine Silverlake. Had a custom built concession wagon. Windlands had the Helen Haag chimps. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 19, 1973, p. 3.
    1973: 60 ft. top with one 30 ft. middle. All brown top, blue side walls. Trucks are orange with yellow lettering and blue trim. Staff: Art Miller "Doc," booking; Bob Grene, announcer, calliope; Joe Eddie, drums; Duane Martin, electrician; Harvery Orr, canvas; Fred Brown, cookhouse. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 22, 1973, p. 2.
    1973: November. Show to come out under a new title in 1974. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 45, 1973, p. 8.

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Lion Bros. Circus - 1925

    A small show, toured Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wyoming, Colorado, New Mexico. Harry Bray, owner, operator who did most of the program. Jesse King did an eight pony drill, riderless menage horse. Other acts were dog act, pick-out pony, performing monkeys, juggling, magic. Had an aftershow, an old medicine show - show's leading mechanic played a lead in this show. Had a pit show with a hyena, labeled "What is it animal?" Mr. Keats was advance man. Had one concession, candy pitch. Traveled on Model T. Ford trucks, music provided by a Victrola. Early in season lost the big top in a windstorm, replaced with a wild west canopy that only covered the reserved seats. Wintered at Las Crucas, New Mexico, earlier had wintered at Maple Hill, Kansas. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 2, 1973, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Fred Locke's - 1891-93

    1890: On the Road, Circuses: Fred Locke's, Montpeiler, O., June 14, Eden 16, Hamilton, Ind. 17 . . . Edgerton, O. 19. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210.
    1890: The roster of Fred Locke's Circus includes: Fred Locke, manager . . . Prof. T. W. Rice, musical director with ten musicians . . . New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 215.

    1891: Roster of Fred Locke’s Circus: Fred Locke, proprietor and manager; Herb B. Deal, general agent; Frank Austen, head billposter, with three men; Dick Kelley, boss canvasman with ten assistants; Prof. D. H. Hadderman, leader of band, with eight musicians; Wm. De Boe, Will Barnes, Douglas and Androus, Lon Brooks, Billy Sheppard, Clyde Le Blanche, Master Ernie Powers, Prof. Vergil Andre, Geo. Le Sage, Chas Butts, C. W. Curtis, J. D. Casy, Merrit Rector, Benj. Rose, Geo. Adams, Clint Hayden, Alonzo Birney, Banks Simmons, John Conley, Fred McKenzie, Burt Mathson, Eugene Bunfill, Wm. Alder, Prince Abraham, Ollie Locke, Mme. Mora and Lizzie Alder, performers. The show has been greatly enlarged and will use a 110ft. round top tent, with a 40 ft. middle piece. The wagons and chariots have been newly painted and decorated, and the entire outfit renovated. The season opens at Capac, Mich., May 16. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 169.
    1891: Wm. De Boe, wire walker and head balancer, is doing well with Fred Locke's Circus. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Fred Locke's, Union City, Mich, Aug 29(?), Athens 31, Fulton Sept. 1, Vicksburg 2, Scotts 3 . . . New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 417.
    1891: Wanted, for Fred Locke's Colossal Shows, a troupe of dogs and ponies, good talking clown and novel circus acts of all kinds, except riders. Address Union City, Mich., Aug. 29, or per route. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 428.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Fred Locke's Carson City MI Sep 18, Pennington 19, Maple Rapids 21. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 467.

    1892: Richard Place, aerialist, has signed with Fred Locke's Circus for next season. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 792.
    1892: The following people have signed with the Fred Locke Show: Prof. D. H. Hadermann, Ray Woodworth, D. C. Woodworth, W. C. Curtis . . . Wm. De Boe, Richard Place, W. M. Bristol . . . C. L. Bailey, Lon Crooks . . . O'Donnell, Billy Sheppard, and Richard Simmons. Fred Locke is manager, with C. L. Bailey, assistant manager, and D. H. Hadermann, musical director. The show will have several features, among them W. M. Bristol's troupe of six snow white trick stallions and ten dogs. The show will travel by wagons as usual, using fifty head of stock and ten head of ring stock. New York Clipper, February 13, 1892, p. 811.
    1892: . . . Harry Stevens . . . Whiting and McClain, and W. W. Everett have signed with Fred Locke's Circus. New York Clipper, March 5, 1892, p. 859.
    1892: Call. People engaged for the Fred Locke United Monster Shows report for rehearsal at ___, Mich. Monday May _. Address - Performers, Fred Locke; sideshow people, Ray Briscoe; musicians, D. H. Haderman; groom and drivers, Jack Shaw; canvas men, Dick Wheeler. . . . New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 124.
    1892: The advance of Fred Locke's Monster Consolidated Shows is made up as follows: Cready Smith, contracting agent; Oliver Buss, boss billposter, with three assistants; H. Gilmore, lithographer, and Harry Cook, programmer. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 146.
    1892: Wm. DeBoe, head balancer and trapeze performer, after a successful season of playing dates, joined Fred Locke's Shows, at Milwaukee, for the tenting season. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
    1892: Notes from the Fred Locke Circus. We have just started our seventh week, and during this time have packed our canvas dry just six times. The roads have been simply horrible; but, with a surplus of well fed stock, we have not missed a stand or canceled a date. A very pleasant occurrence took place in the ring on last Saturday evening. Mr. Locke had forgotten that Saturday was his birthday, but his company had not. Just before the last act, assistant manager Curt Bailey stepped into the ring, and, with a neat and appropriate speech, presented Mr. Locke, on behalf of the company, with a gold watch. Althoug completely taken by surprise, Mr. Locke responded in his usual happy style, and the canvas, which was packed to the ring bank, was almost raised off the poles by the applause which followed. Prof. D. H. Hadderman attached a gold chain and K. of P. charm to the watch, and Mr. Locke, as he gave each one of his company a hearty shake of the hand, declared that his thirty-fourth birthday would never be forgotten. Since our opening several changes have been made in our roster, which is now as follows: Fred Locke, sole proprietor and manager; Curt Bailey, assistant manager; D. S. Locke, treasurer; Prof. D. H. Hadderman, musical director and leader of band No. 1, with nine mouthpieces; Len Osborn, leader band No. 2, with six mouthpieces; Geo. E. Davis, manager sideshow; Emmet Snider, master of transportation and superintendent privileges; Ed. De Long, master of canvas, with nine assistants; Joe Locke, in charge of stock, with eight assistants: Jas. Borland, in charge of ring stock; Dick Borjaro, boss property man, with two assistants; W. W. Everett, in charge of lights; E. E. Pratt, chief cook, with four assistants; L. T. Rusk, manager advertising programme. Performers: Wm. De Boe, four Zaro Bros., Joe Douglas, Harry Long and wife, Prof. Borland's trained dogs and goats, E. F. Cristo, Billy Sheppard, Master Ernie Powers' stud of eight performing stallions, Claude Meinotte(Melnotte?), Frank Florence and wife, two Bessley Bros. and John Kane. The canvas, with is all new, is as follows: One 80ft. round top with two 40(?)ft. middle pieces, 30ft. dressing top, 40x60ft. sideshow, eight paintings, two horse tents, two cook tents, sixteen wagons and forty-two head of stock. The advance is in charge of Cready Smith, and the roster remains the same as before published. The ghost has not failed to make his appearance every Sunday morning, and everybody is contented and happy. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Fred Locke's, New Washington OH July 8, Attica 9, Republic 11 . . . Sycamore 13 . . . New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 280.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Fred Locke's, Sycamore OH July 13, McCutchensville 14. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
    1892: News from the Fred Locke Show. Everybody is in good spirits and show doing well. Manager Locke has added several new features since the show opened. C. L. Bailey spent a short time at Cleveland last week. Sam Homer joined July 8(?). New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Locke's, Hilliard OH July 29, West Jefferson Aug 2, London 3, Cedarville 4. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: Wanted, for Fred Locke's United Monster Shows, people with good concert turns. Also a few billposters. Can use knockabout clown that does concert turn. (P.S. K. of P.'s given the preference) Address Hilliard, O. 29, West Jefferson, O. Aug. 2, London 3, Cedarville, 4. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 334.
    1892: From the Fred Locke Show. We are now in our twenty fourth and last week of the season, closing at Jamestown, O., Oct. 22. This has been the most prosperous season Mr. Locke has ever had. Mr. Locke with ship to Capac, Mich., where he will begin preparing for next season. . . . four white stallions which Mr. Locke purchased recently. He will also have three educated pigs. H. R. Woodworth, W. A. Curtis and D. H. Hadermann, our leader, will join ___ & Barney's Concert Co., Mr. Hadermann taking charge of the band. . . . Master Ernie Powers will spend the winter at their home, Capac. Sam J. Horner will go to his home, New Castle, Pa., and rest a week. He joins his partner, Lall Eggleston. Wm. De Boe joins Sparks & Allen's Winter Circus. The Four Zaro Bros. will play dates, opening at Cincinnati Oct. 24. Joe Douglas will also play dates. Billy Sheppard joins the Wizard Oil Co. Fanning Bros. will spend the winter at their home, Port Huron, Mich., and will have a new act next season. Billy Sanford will take out a comedy company. Chas. Clifford and wife will go to their home, Cleveland. The dressing rooms resemble an auction room, everybody is buying and selling. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.

    1893: Cready S. Primrose has closed as agent for Barlow Bros. Minstrels, and is at Akron, O. He will join Fred Locke's Circus in April, as contracting agent. New York Clipper, January 14, 1893, p. 721.
    1893: "Doc" Filley has signed with the Fred Locke Show as equestrian director. A. M. Wilcox has also been engaged. New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.
    1893: Notes from the Fred Locke Show. We have just entered our seventh week of phenominal business. We opened our season at Jamestown, O., on April 22, when we played to the capacity of the canvas both afternoon and evening. A pleasant surprise was prepared for Mr. Locke by the K. of P. of Jamestown previous to the opening. After the regular meeting of the lodge the doors of the banquet hall were thrown open, where invited guests to the number of one hundred and fifty had assembled in honor of Mr. Locke. After an elaborate repast, a feature of which was a mammoth cake two feet in diameter, on which were the words "Fred Locke's Monster Shows," speeches, dancing, et., were indulged in. On the evening of the opening, as Mr. Locke stepped into the ring with the trained stock he was presented with an elegant ring Whip from the K. of P. lodge of Jamestown. Mr. Locke, who is never at a loss to find words to express himself, responded in an appropriate speech, assuring his friends that he would never cease to remember with pleasure the friends he had made in that city. It might not be out of place to mention the fact that in Mr. Locke's Co. are eight K. of P., two Odd Fellows and one Mason. We have had some wet weather, but duing it all have missed but two matinees, and have not as yet had a light house. The complete roster of our company is a follows: Fred Locke, proprietor and manager; O. S. Locke, treasurer; Doc Filley, assistant manager; D. H. Hadermann, musical director; Curt Bailey, manager of privileges; Joe Locke, master of transportation . . . F.(P.?) J. Hall, boss property man with three assistants . . . Chas. Brown, boss hostler with nine assistants; James Borland, horse trainer, and in charge of ring stock with three assistants. The advance, which is in two brigades, is under the management of Cready C. Primrose, George Marvin, in charge of paper . . . and Red Maxwell, bill posters. Brigade No. 2, consisting of three people, is in charge of R. W. Drow. The music, which is one of the features of the show, is under the management of Prof. D. H. Hadermann, this being Mr. Hadermann's fifth season with Mr. Locke. The folowing musicians make up the band: D. H. Hadermann, Charles Moore . . . Ernie Locke, W. A. Curtis, Jack Conley, Ray Woodworth . . . and Sid. Frantz. The performers: Wm. de Boe, Doc Filley, Four Zaro Bros., Ollie La Vine, Billy Sheppard, Moore Family, Mamie Lewis . . . and Lester Bros. Candy stand, Burt Hayden and ___. We have sixty-two head of stock, including ten head of ring stock. New canvas, new wagons neatly painted, eight new side show banners and a clean, gentlemanly company gives us an appearance and prestige of which we think we have reason to be proud. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 214.
    1893: News from Fred Locke's Circus. At Sabina(?), O., on June 19(?), one of the most happy events in the history of the Locke show took place, the occasion being the thirty-fifth birthday of Mr. Locke and the twenty-sixth birthday of our musical director, Prof. D. H. Haddermann. As Mr. Locke stepped into the ring to work the trained horses, and before he was aware of what was to take place, assistant manager Doc Filley, in a neat and appropriate speech, presented him, on behalf of his company, an elegant cane, on the gold head of which was neatly engraved the names of the donors. Prof. Haddermann added a handsome K. of P. ring, and before Mr. Locke could find words to reply, he was also presented with a $200(?) phaeton, which had been made to order and shpped to Sabina. The phaeton was a gift from Mrs. Locke, and Mr. Locke enjoys to the utmost riding over the road in his fine new carriage drawn by two snow white horses, which he recently purchased in Lexington, Ky. Prof. Haddermann was no less surprised than Mr. Locke when he was presented with a $20 gold piece and a handsome silk umbrella. The presentation took place during the evening perfomance. We are in our tenth week of uninterrupted success. L. E. Osborne, solo cornettist, joined 17. John Zaro, of the Zaro Bros., who has been laying off during the past week on account of sickness, is now convalescent, and will be able to resume his work in a few days. Mamie Lewis, who was thrown from a chariot which she was driving in the pony hippodrome races at Lancaster, is again able to hold the ribbons. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
    1893: The advance of Fred Locke's . . . one buggy, one two horse bill wagon and one four horse bill wagon. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: Alf. Dorian, contortionist, has left the John Robinson Show, and has joined Fred Locke's show for the remainder of the season. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
    1893: Notes from the Fred Locke Circus. Business continues satisfactory. Our night houses are something wonderful, and we have missed only six matinees so far this season. C. S. Primrose is no longer conncected with either of our advance brigades. Curt Bailey is now our general advance manager, and the roads which lead to and from the towns on our route are literally covered with Fred Locke paper. J. D. Hadderman, father of our musical dircector, D. H. Haddermann, has been a guest of the show during the last few days. . . . That staunch old friend of all showmen, Frank Fletcher, of Fort Wayne, Ind., paid us his regular yearly call last week and we were all sorry to see him return home. Master Ernie Locke is the proud possessor of a new alto horn. Two new wagons and eight head of stock have been added during the last two weeks. Alf. Dorian, contortionist and sword walker, joined at Sidney, O. His sword walking adds another act to our side show, which now presents a front of eight banners. Mr. Locke has commenced to lay his plans for next season, which includes many additions and improvements, and it is safe to predict that the Fred Locke Circus in 1894 will be one of the largest and best equipped wagon shows on the road. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 378.
    1893: C. S. Primrose has closed as general agent of Fred Locke's Shows, and is doing the advance work for Chas. W. Howitt's Criterion Minstrels. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 381.
    1893: [Ad] Fred Locke's Circus band has been making a hit under the direction of Prof. D. H. Hadermann, director. D. H. Hadermann, director, E flat cornet; L. E. Osborne, solo cornet; W. A. Curtin, slide trombone; Merritt Rector, bass; Charles Vermont, solo clarionet; John Nehman, trap drummer; Ray Woodworth, baritone solorist; John Conley, trombone; Master Ernie Locke, solo alto. P.S. Can furnish musicians for first class cos. on or before Oct. 20. Address D. H. Hadermann, permanent address Leipair, Ohio. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 458.

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Lion Bros. Circus - 1925

    Lion Bros. was a small show that toured Kansas, Nebraska, South Dakota, Wyoming, New Mexico and Colorado in 1925, traveling on Model T Ford trucks. Harry Bray owned and operated the show, and did most of the program. Jesse King had an eight ponny drill and menage horse. Music was provided by a Victrola. The show wintered at Las Cruces, New Mexico, previously at Maple Hill, Kansas. Circus Report, January 15, 1973, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Thos. C. Logan's - 1891

    Wanted, for Thos. C. Logan's Big One Ring Circus, people in all branches of the circus business. Also band of seven pieces, set of entree suits, small ticket wagon and pad horse suitable for children to ride. Address Thos. C. Logan, Carbondale, Ill. New York Clipper, January 24, 1891, p. 735.
    Thomas C. Logan's Circus is quartered at Murphysboro, Ill., where everything is undergoing restoration for the coming tenting season. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
    Wanted, a few more circus and concert people, boss canvasman and entree suits for Thos. C. Logan's Big One Ring Circus. Address Thos. C. Logan, Murphysboro, Ill. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 796.
    The Chicks(?), John and Annie, have signed with Thomas C. Logan's Circus for the tenting season of 1891. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
    Prof. J. Repasz's(?) Band and Orchestra, of Baraboo, Wis., have signed with Thomas C. Logan Show, of Murphysboro, Ill., for the tenting season of 1891. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
    At the winter quarters of Thos. C. Logan's Circus, Murphysboro, Ill., the red wagons are as bright as a new penny, and the little army of horses, ponies, mules, dogs, etc., are in splendid shape for the opening early in April. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
    Thos C. Logan's Circus includes the following people: The Mayo Family, Harry Moore, Chas. Lowe, Wm. Smead, De Veldean and Bolz(?), Sinclair and ___, Hill Bros., ___ and Whiting, John Chicks, Annie Chicks, Frank Burns, Dollie Booth, Gaylord Family, Jos. Wood, Mollie Johnson, Emma Fish, Josie Fish, Burt Thurman, Chas. Jones, C. A. Howard and Prof. Repasz and band. The first stand will be at Murphysboro, Ill., April 2?. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 74.
    Notes from the Thomas S. Logan Circus. Nearly all the details are completed for the opening at Murphysboro, Ill., April 25(?). All the trappings and mountings used in the parade are entirely new, as well as the wardrobe, which is expensive and attractive. Mr. Logan recently purchased a number of large iron gray horses, which are seen in the parade. Prof. Mayo's trained equines are in excellent working condition, and are a strong feature. All the indications point to a most auspicious opening. The canvas is a 110ft. round top, with two ?0ft. middle pieces; entrance tent, ?0ft., with marquee, and six cars will be used. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 134.
    Floyd Trover and Eddie McDonald have closed with Clark Bros. Circus Royal and joined Thomas C. Logan's Circus. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
    Nat(?) Comstock has joined hands with Floyd Trover and Eddie McDonald. They will now be known as Trover, Comstock and McDonald, and are with Logan's Circus. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
    Trover and McDonald have not taken another performer into their firm, all reports to the contrary notwithstanding. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
    On the road, circuses: Thos. C. Logan's, Jacksonville, Ill., July 3, 4. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.

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Lowande - 1889

    A Circus in Hard Luck. After a Prosperous Week at Trenton, the Dime Show Has Trouble. Lowande's ten-cent circus that exhibited last week over in the borough, has had a run of bad luck up in New Brunswick, where it is now exhibiting. First came a strike by the band, on Monday afternoon. A skirmish was made to secure other musicians, but no men were available, so there was no show in the afternoon. In the evening the Union Cornet Band played. There was a large crowd present, and during the show the reserved seats gave away and a number of people were more or less hurt and frightened. In raising the tent in the morning the centre pole broke and one of the canvasmen was injured. . . . The manager thinks there is a Jonah among the canvas men, and as soon as he is discovered, he will be "fired." Trenton (NJ) Times, July 24, 1889.

    The tour of the Lowande Brazilian Circus and English Royal Menagerie is under the management of J. S. Hoffman, whose experience in the direction of the largest twenty-five cent circus will doubtless be found of much value in the new venture to be put on this coming Winter season for the Southern States, Mexico and Cuba. Nearly all the tour has already been prospected. The pictorial features will be gorgeous, and the company novel and complete, we are assured. Business has been big throughout New Jersey, and everybody is happy. Martinho Lowande is back again with the show after sojourning at Long Branch, N.J. for several days, and will get to work and proceed for a divorce from his wife, Rosina Lowande. Then he will be in his glory again. Earle and Ward are no longer with the show, and the same may be said of Troy Bosco and Valintin G. Gaylor. Bender has renewed his contract for the balance of the season. A. De Tase(?), treasurer, is somewhat troubled with inflammation of the stomach. One thing that gives necessarily a certain sameness to circus music has been much improved by our new leader, Max Schneider, and one and all say it’s the best circus music ever heard. Mr. Lowande can feel proud of his new band. George Roop and wife are with them, and will stay until the close of the season. Martinho Lowande has bought four new horses for his six horse act. J. Henry Rice, who is hard at work with his advance people, is one of the most energetic advance agents, and has done some excellent work this season with Lowande’s Circus. The show will not come to New York, as was intended, not being able to make satisfactory arrangements. New York Clipper, August 3, 1889. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Lynch's Great Western - 1891

    Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Allen W. Lynch's Great Western Circus starts from this city about May 1. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 79.
    Wanted, people in all branches of circus business except riders. Address A. W. Lynch, ___ Fifth Avenue, Pittsburg, Pa. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 85.
    Allen W. Lynch’s Great Western Circus starts from Pittsburg, Pa., early in May. The show is well put together, and should make a nice bit of money during the campaign. New York Dramatic News, April 18, 1891, p. 12.
    On the road, circuses: Lynch's Great Western Pittsburg, Pa., May 11-16, Allegheny 18, 19 . . . New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 171.
    On the road, circuses: Lynch's Great Western, Millville, Pa. May 20, 21. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
    On the road, circuses: A. W. Lynch's, Verona, Pa. May 27, Springate 28 . . . Freeport 30. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.

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