Circus Historical Society
Circuses - Brief Bits
O P Q R
A - B C - E F - H I - L M - N O - R S - T U - Z
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Information on these circuses was taken from the New York Clipper, Billboard, and newspapers. Some of the shows may not be circuses. Note that not only do the Clipper, Billboard and newspapers have typographical errors, the transcription will also have typos. All information should be checked with additional sources.
O'Brien & Connelly - 1890 (or Connolley)
Call. Performers, curios, musicians and all people engaged for O'Brien & Connelly's Casino, Circus, Museum and Theatre, will report at Casino Museum, Pittsburg, Pa., Thursday, May 1(?). for rehearsal. Show opens May ?. We still want two E-flat cornets and one tuba, playing double ___, for concert. O'Brien & Connelly, proprietors, E. W. Connelly, manager. P. S. Wanted, good animal men and elephant trainer. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 110.
On the Road, Circuses: O'Brien & Connoly's. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 162.
Albert Sylvester, contortionist, opened with the O'Brien & Connelly Circus May ? for the season. Willie Kern is engaged to do principal horizontal bars. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 167.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Ogden's - 1890-92
1890: On the Road, Circuses: C. T. Ogden's . . . New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 741.
1891: Ogden's, Chas F. Charleston, S.C., Dec. 29-Jan. 3. New York Clipper, January 3, 1891, p. 675.
1891: Chas. Parker(?), Frank Leroy and Wakely(?) have rejoined Chas. Ogden's Show. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
1891: Wanted people for Chas. Ogden's Show in all lines of circus business, except riding. Concert people also. Side show and other privileges to let. Address Chas. Ogden, care of Ogend's Show, Newberry, S. Carolina. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 54.
1891: George E. Merrill has closed with Chas. Ogden's Circus and joined Dr. Tremaine's Co. May 14. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
1891: On the road, circuses: Chas. Ogden's, Lincolnton, N. C. May 27, 28, Newton 29, Hickory 30. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
1891: On the road, miscellaneous: Chas. Ogden's, Henrietta, NC July 1, Marion 4. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
1891: Wanted, for Chas. Ogden's Show, gymnasts and good specialty people and black face people, those doing two or more turns. Also good serio comic, who does good wing(?) dancing. P.S. a wagon show. Write Radford, Va. to Chas. T. Ogden, care of Ogden's Show. New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 378.
1892: Prof. Chas. T. Ogden's new tent shows will take the road April 1, traveling by rail. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Older & Crane - 1884
Older, Crane & Co.’s New York Circus, Museum and Congress of Trained Animals. Officers - Older, Crane & Co. sole proprietors; P. A. Older, manager; George J. Crane, general director; A. Leshler, treasurer; John La Rue, equestrian director; Will A. Innes, general agent; Sumner Burroughts, assistant agent; Glen White, lithographer; Lew Coleman, Al. Weston, Edward Granger, Wm. Tucker and John Roberts, billposters; C. T. Henderson, master of canvas; George Blake, assistant master of canvas; . . . P. C. Walker, master of transportation; Rufus Chapin, manager of privileges; James Palmer, manager sideshow; Prof. Cummings, descriptive lecturer; leader first band, Prof. Charles Bliss, with 15 men; leader second band, Prof. Graves, with 10 colored juveniles. Clowns - George J. Crane, Ben Snow, Wm. Maurittus, John La Rue, Willie La Rue. Company - Riders: Clarinda Lampkin, Julia Lowande, Mlle. Elsie, Edward Shipp, Charles Young. Gymnasts: The La Rue Family, four in number; Philip Farnum, Dick Farnum, Wm. Maurittus. Aerial artists: St. Clair Bros., Charles F. Orville; Floyd St. Clair, principal leaper; Frelando, juggler; Rich Dialo, fire-king. Specialists: Mlle. Elsie’s two performing white stallions, Prof. Charles Young’s performing horses, ponies and riding goats; Ben Snow’s performing and riding dogs and leaping grayhounds; Senorita Alba Winta, wire ascensionist; Harry G. Lampkin, equilibrist. Sideshow people - Augusta Livingston, tattooed lady; Miss Owens, long-haired lady; Mme. King, fat woman; Irene, midget; Welsh’s Punch-and-Judy; Prof Cummings’ “Rhoda” and “Mythia.” 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.
Oliver's Great Eastern - 1891-93
1891: Malveno has signed for the coming season with Oliver & Co.'s Wagon Show. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
1891: Harry Barsey(?), for the past four season with Lock & Long's and Fred Long's Circuses, has signed for the coming season with Oliver & Palmer's Show, which opens May, 1, at Minneapolis. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
1891: Wanted, Oliver & Co.'s Wagon Show. Good band of _ people; also performers that do _ or more turns. Those playing brass preferred. Also good advance agent. All privileges to let. Address Thos. Oliver, Minneapolis, Minn. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 85.
1891: Call. All people engaged for Oliver & Co.'s Show, report at Montevideo, Minn., Tuesday, May 12. Wanted, a few more good circus people. Address Thos. Oliver, Montevideo, Minn. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 162.
1891: Oliver's Great Eastern Shows opened to good business at Montevideo, Minn. May 16(?). Frank Fuller's silver cornet band is with the show. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
1891: Wanted, musicians. Good, loud B flat cornet player that plays second violin, also trombone, valve or slide. Address Frank Fuller, leader, Oliver's Great Eastern Shows, Morwood, Minn. May 29, Green Isle 30, Arlington June 1, Gaylor 2. Permanent address Box __, Minneapolis, Minn. Also wanted to buy a troupe of trained dogs. Thos. Oliver, address above. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 210.
1891: Wanted, for Oliver's Great Eastern Show, strong man, bar team, good concert man that can double brass. Address Thos. Oliver, . . . Brownvally, Minn. 26, Graceville 17 . . . Morris July 1, Benson 4. Permanent address, Box 49, Minneapolis, Minn. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 276.
1891: Wanted, musicians. Strong E and B Cornet players, long season. First class accomodations. Write or wire. Frank Fuller, leader, Oliver's Great Eastern Circus, Menominee, Wis. July 25, Durand 27, Mondovi 28, Osseo 29, Augusta 30, Neillsville Aug 1, Marshall 2. Permanent address Box 49 Minneapolis, Minn. Wanted a few more good circus people, long season, address as above, Thos. Oliver. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 339.
1891: Notes from Oliver's Great Eastern Shows. We are playing to fine business through Minnesota and Wisconsin, and the people are all well and happy. Manager Williams, of Williams' Circus, visited the show at Hammond, Wis. The Timmerman Family paid us a visit at Princeton, Minn., when everybody had an enjoyable time. We are now in our fourteenth week to good business. New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 365.
1891: F. P. Prescott, contracting agent for Oliver's Great Eastern Shows, reports good business through Wisconsin. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
1891: Notes from Oliver's Great Eastern Shows. We have been touring the Dakotas, Wisconsin, Minnesota and Manitoba. Business is wonderful. Our black clown horse, Prince, died Aug. 8(?). He was valued at $5,000(?), which is quite a loss to Mr. Oliver. . . . C. F. Covell and Thos. Oliver sustained severe injuries 13 by a burr coming off of one of the cages upon which they were asleep. Harry Barney leaves 28 to fill other engagements. He was presented with a handsome gold watch and chain by Thos. Oliver. All the company are well and happy. The roster is: Thos. Oliver, sole proprietor; W. M. Prescott representative, in advance . . . Harry Brandon, Geo. Fastic(?), Dad Gi??on, Leo Lane, Chip Slosson . . . Charles Link . . . Ed. Wilkins, C. F. Covell and Prof. Frank Fuller and band of twelve pieces. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
1891: Oliver's Great Eastern Shows closed a satisfactory season of twenty-four weeks at Montevideo, Minn., Oct. 17. The show will be enlarged for next season. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 593.
1892: Happy Harry Barnes has signed with Oliver's Great Eastern Circus for 1892, making his second season with that show. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 795.
1892: J. M. Abbott, H. B. Mullane and Frank S. Read have signed with Oliver's Great Eastern Circus. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
1892: . . . Harry Brandon and Grant Nichols have signed with Oliver's Great Eastern Circus. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
1892: Oliver's Great Eastern Circus opened at Montevido [sic], Minn., April __. Splendid business is reported. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
1892: Danny Darney goes with Oliver's(?) Circus. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
1892: Wanted, quick, for Oliver's Great Eastern Circus, cornet player. Long season. Write or wire . . . New London, Minn. July 2, Murdock 4 . . . Hancock 6, Starbuck 7, Villard 8, Sauk Center 9. Address Box __, Minneapolis, Minn. Thos. Oliver. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 270.
1892: Wanted, quick, for Oliver's Great Eastern Circus, concert people, also tuba player. Summer and winter season. Wire Grand Forks, North Dakota, Aug 25, East Grand Forks, 26, Fisher, Minnesota, 27, Crookston 29, Red Lake Falls 30. Thos. Oliver. New York Clipper, August 27, 1892, p. 400.
1892: Oliver's Great Eastern Shows closed a successful season of twenty-four weeks Oct. 16 at Montevido [sic], Minn. Manager Oliver will put out a comedy company of eighteen people on Nov. 12. New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 538.
1892: Prof. Hocum and the Slosson Bros. have signed with Oliver's Great Eastern Circus for the season of 1893, making their third season with that show. New York Clipper, December 3, 1892, p. 624.
1893: James W. Tweed has signed with Oliver's Great Eastern Show. New York Clipper, January 21, 1893, p. 734.
1893: Edgar Geyer and wife go with Oliver's Great Eastern Show. New York Clipper, February 18, 1893, p. 800.
1893: Wanted, for Oliver's Great Shows, __ strong ring acts. Write or wire, . . . Lampere ND, June 12 . . . Lisbon 14, Sheldon 15. Permanent address, Box __, Minneapolis, Minn. Thos. Oliver. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 223.
1893: Oliver's World's Greatest Shows are doing good business through North Dakota, playing to the capacity of their large canvas. . . . A blow down happend at Clarement June 2(?). No one was injured, althoug the performance was in progress. The show was finished in the Kid Show top. . . . New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
1893: Wanted, for Oliver's Great Eastern Shows, one cornet, tuba and baritone. Summer and winter season. Wire or write: . . . Town Valley, Minn. July 25, Hawley 26 . . . Pelican Rapids 28, Fergus Falls 29. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 324.
1893: Wanted quick, ring act and snake charmer. Address Thos. Oliver . . . Melrose, Minn. Aug. 5 . . . Long Prairie 8 . . . New York Clipper, August 5, 1893, p. 355.
1893: Prof. E. Y. Hocum, having closed a successful season with Oliver's Great Eastern Shows, is now resting at Milbank(?), S. Dak., where he has a large ___ of carpenters at work building a large ring barn in which, when completed, he will commence the training of his horses. He will also improve his wire act. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.
1894: Wanted, for Oliver's Great Eastern Shows. Horses, dogs, musicians, performers that double in band. Side show and candy stand to let. Thos. Oliver, Box __, Minneapolis, Minn. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 809.
1894: Call. All people engaged for Oliver's Great Eastern Shows. report at the ___, Montevideo, Minn. May __. Can use a few more good people. Thomas Oliver. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 142.
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Orr Bros. - 1890
On the Road, Circuses: Orr Bros.', Muskegan, Mich., Aug. ??-23. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 370. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Orrin Bros. Circus, Mexico - 1889, 1890, 1894, 1906
1890: Circo Orrin. Charles W. Fish Write as follows from the City of Mexico, under date of Feb. 5(?): "I have been a long time getting at it, but at last I've made up my mind to send a letter to the showmen's friend, the Clipper. We opened at Merida, Yucatan, Mexico, Nov. 15, 1889, in the new bull ring (Palza de Toro) and theatre, a huge building, open overhead, like all pazas de toros, much more nicely finished and painted than any I had previously seen outside of Spain. No such company ever was seen in Yucatan as that of Circo Orrin, and for six weeks we played ot uninterrupted good business, the open space of the bull ring (overhead) being covered with a canvas made for the special purpose. During the stay there a branch company was sent to Izamal (Is-ah-mal) for five days, where big business rewarded us for undertaking one of the most unique, as well as uncomfortable, journeys I ever experienced. Nine miles were made in what are termed 'volancoches,' a vehicle consisting of two large wheels and a body resting, thorough brace fashion, on huge straps. There are no seats, the bottom being ropes supporting a mattress, on which two persons can stretch out at full length, or four persons can sit crosswise, two on each side. The motive power consists of three little mules abreast, in harness of the principal product and staple of Yucatan hemp, called 'benequin.' More miserable looking animals I never saw, and strange to say, they are in active service twenty, and in some cases, thirty years. The nine miles were made on a __ run, over a road consisting of boulders, from the size of a bucket to a sprinkling cart. The comparison is anything but suggestive, as the dust barely covers the stones, and flies as only such dust can fly. The worst storm at sea is a pleasure to the rocking and pitching of one of these 'volancoches.' I am convinced that no other class of vehivle could hold together, if driven the same distance and in the same manner. From Merida the company went to Progresso (the port of entry), and played several days to the capacity of the bull ring. An experimental trip was made to Campeche(?), State of Campeche(?), the horses and one half the company disembarking at that point, and the other half proceeding to Laguna, where exhibitions were given in the theatre. In both places the business exceeded our expectations. The company at Campeche were saddened by the untimely death of one of the musicians, Dan O'Callahan, well known in New York, and a member of the Ninth Regiment Band. He died Jan. 5(?), and was buried 6(?). Every care during his short illness and respect at his funeral was shown by the members of the band and the company. The campeche party left there 8(?), it being necessary to start at 4(?) a. m. in small sailboats, the anchorage grounds of the American steamers (Ward Line) being eighteen miles from shore, in the open sea. We boarded the Niagra at 9 a. m.. At 3 p. m. we were on our way to Vera Cruz, arriving there at noon 9. We opened 11 to a fine business, and remained until 21(?), inclusive. The arrival of the party from Laguna was retarded a couple of days by the prevalence of a Norther, which blew so fiercely that for three days there was no communication between the shore an vessels in the harbor of Vera Cruz. On 22, at 2 a. m., we left Vera Cruz by special train, and arrived in this city at 3 p. m., over an hour ahead of time. It is unnecessary for me to again describe the grandeur of the scenery en route. I don't know but I was more impressed on this, my second trip, than I was on my first, six years ago, and which I fully described then. We opened here evening of 24(?) to the capacity of the building, and an audience composed of the best families of the city. Business has been larger than that of any previous __ up to date. The company is the largest, and one of the best, that the Orrin Brothers ever brought to Mexico. I was somewhat nervous in regard to my reception here, as I had heard that great offence had been taken at my letter written to the Clipper six years ago from this city, though why I could never understand. I am pleased to say I was received very nicely, but not so enthusiastically as upon my former visit. A few days later article began to appear in one or two of the papers, with an evident desire to create a feeling against me. From these articles I learned why the Mexican public was __ incensed, and from their source of information I do not blame them from being offended. I have been misrepresented, and accused of remarks which I never even thought of, much less putting to paper. I am inclined to think the origin of these misrepresentations is in some person unfriendly to the Orrin Brothers. In connection with a party of obnoxious men in a certain restaurant in this city, I overheard a lady make a remark, which I, without how it would sound in the reading afterward, repeated in my belief. If I had taken a second thought I should not have ___, as it was none of my business, and I associated the remark only with the party referred to. Out stay in the city will extend well into Spring. A branch company will very likely be sent into the country next month. Some of the people have already finished their engagements, and are on their way to the 'States.' The Marvelles left for New York Feb. 4(?), via Vera Cruz. The Patterson Brothers leave for San Antonio, Tex., via Laredo, where they are to open as soon as they arrive. The Marvelles are under contract to open at one of the principal variety theatres in Boston, otherwise these excellent people would have remained here much longer, as they are very much liked by the management and the people. The Heely(?) Brothers leave here next week for London, Eng., to fill engagements. Chiarini's(?) Circus is on the way to this city, showing en route. Just where it is now I do not know, certainly not over twenty-four hours ride by rail from here. Lorenzo Maya(?), who has been so many years with Mr. Charini(?), ___ as clown and now as agent and general manager, was a visitor at the Orrins' Circus a few days ago. Any one who knew him twenty-five years ago would recall him instantly. He certainly carries his age well. Bell(?), the clown, continues to make the people laugh just as heartily as he has ever season for the past nine(?) years. They say he is like old wine that improves with age. . . . New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 829. 1888-1890, 1264.pdf1890: The Orrin Bros. will probably have one of their shows in Havana, Cuba, next season. They were popular in that city some few years ago. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 829.
1890: Mexico, March 5(?). The Orrin Bros. and Chiarini Combined Shows opened in the City of Mexico . . . New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 852.
1890: The Orrin Brothers have engaged Chiarini's Royal Italian Circus Co. for four weeks, and have arranged to show them in their popular place in the City of Mexico, in conjunction with their own company. This will offer a big treat and a big troupe, and at the same time help out Chiarini, who was unable to secure an exhibition lot in the city. The Orrin Bros. report a very prosperous season so far, and they have earned this success by having a large and a well managed troupe, including many prominent performers. They have, without doubt, one of the strongest shows now exhibiting. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 861.
1890: The Orrins gave a special performance of their show in the City of Mexico, in honor of the Railroad Agents' Association, March 24(?). They had a big bill and a big attendance. The guests of the evening insisted upon paying for their seats, and that the money should go to the American Hospital in the City of Mexico. They gave up $142, to which Edward Orrin, with his usual generosity, added $58, to make an even two hundred. G. W. Orrin, wife and boy are at St. Augustine, Fla. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 75.
1890: The Orrin Bros.' season will close in the City of Mexico about May ?. G. W. Orrin and wife will arrive in New York shortly. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 126.
1890: Charini's Circus and Menagerie, which has been with the Orrin Bros. in the City of Mexico for two months, closed there April 2? and left for Havana, Cuba, where the show is shortly to open. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 126.
1890: Mr. and Mrs. George W. Orrin and their bright little baby arrived in town [New York] May ?? from the South, where they had been for several weeks. . . . New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 183.
1890: Charles W. Fish, champion bareback rider of the world, at liberty about Oct. 1, 1890. Address, care Circo Orrin, City of Mexico, Mexico. New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 189.
1890: G. W. Orrin and family are spending part of their summer vacation at Corning, N. Y., as guests of their old friend, John Worland, who is a resident of that city and has a cosy ___ there in connection with a book and stationary store. Mr. Worland retired from the profession after his last engagement with Orrin Bros. in 1888(?). New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 198.
1890: Samuel Wilson, one of the musicians of the Orrin Bros.' Circus, who was a passenger ___ Vera Cruz on the steamer ___, committed suicide on that vessel on June 4(?), the day before she arrived at Havana. He showed evidence of insanity soon after he took passage on the vessel, and Steward Clarkson, toward whom Wilson seemed to take a fancy from the first, took the poor man in charge. On the evening of June ?, Clarkson left Wilson in charge of an attendant at the stern of the vessel to look after dinner for the passengers, and Wilson and the attendant walked up and down the small space for a few moments together, when the insane man suddenly sprang through the port. The attendant cought him by the leg, but was kicked so violently that he lost his hold, and Wilson was seen no more. Captain Curtis made every effort to rescue the man, but was unsuccessful. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 231.
1890: The Orrin Brothers have just secured the right to build a new amphitheatre in the City of Mexico. The will begin operations soon, and will put up an ornamental iron structure. Edward Orrin leaves there this week. He will rusticate near Corning, N. Y., where his brother, George, and John Worland are enjoying the breezes. New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 262.
1890: The Orrin Brothers, of the City of Mexico, are about to erect the finest and most complete place of amusement to be found in the republic of Mexico. Architectural plans are complete, and Ed. Orrin, now in New York, soon return to push the work. All will be ready by December. The establishment will embrace a circus, theatre, rink, cafes and museum. The interior will be quite a novelty, and the ring and parquet seats roll out under the boxes, transforming the circus in a few minutes into a ballroom of skating rink. The stage will be one of the largest in the city. All will be illuminated by electricity. No more tents will be allowed in the city. The management have a special privilege from the Government for this construction, and are to improve all those parts of the "Plaza" not occupied by the building with cement walks and gardens. New York Clipper, July 26, 1890, p. 307.
1890: The Orrin Brothers will open their season in Mexico Nov. 15(?), . . . The Orrins will run two companies, and will change the bill daily. . . . Mexican money has appreciated in value since last season, and the Orrins ask performers to make special note of that important item. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 355.
1890: First class circus talent writing Orrin Bros. for engagement for the winter . . . artists can also write for engagements to John Worland, Corning, N. Y. . . . Orrin Brothers, Plymouth, Mass. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 365.
1890: Notice Orrin Bros. . . . Address F.(?) Fernandez, New York City; John Worland, Corning, New York; Orrin Brothers, Plymouth, Mass. New York Clipper, September 6, 1890, p. 414.
1890: Notes from Orrin Bros.' Circus in Mexico. This season has been the most profitable of any during the ten years that the Orrin Brothers have been catering to the Mexican public. It has been the most free from rain during the summer months. "Cinderella" has proven a great card in all the cities visited. Manager Ed. Orrin is now in the City of Mexico, busy with contractors and builders. The new Circo Teatro(?) will be a very handsome place, it is to be from the plans of the designer of the Nouveau[sp?] Cirque, Paris, and will cost about double the amount that the Orrins first intended to expend. The new building will there cost between $78,000(?) and $100,000. The climat of Mexico is an agreeable surprise to strangers. Mexico is synonymous with oppressive heat, but this summer the thermometer has never registered more than 84(?) degrees, and often fell as low as __ degrees. I can be safely said that 70 degrees is the general average. Blankets are necessary to comfort at night. . . . Our season will probably close about Sept. __. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 420.
1890: The Orrin Brothers will shortly open their tenth season in Mexico with a large company, beginning with a tour on the coast and among the "Oranges." . . . George and Edwin Orrin are in the city . . . and Charles Orrin left here [New York] Nov. 1(?), with a big lot of paraphernalia, printing, etc., for the Mexican tour. . . . A number of people will leave here for Mexico Nov. ?. Among those engaged are the Bell Family . . . Charles W. Fish . . . Frank Melville and wife, Arthur Da Coma and wife . . . William Gorman(?) and Pauline Lee, the Gilfort Brothers, Clyde Phillips, Prof. Wood and troupe of ponies . . . New York Clipper, November 8, 1890, 558.
1890: Circo Teatro Orrin, Mexico, season 1890-91. Company leaves on the new and splendid S. S. "Orizaba," to sail Saturday, November 8, . . . artists engaged up to present are as follows: Bell Family (8 in number), Bannack Family (4 in number), Charles W. Fish (with stock), the Omra Japanese Troupe (7 in number), Frank Melville and wife (with horses), Arthur Da Coma and wife, the Clover Troupe (4 in number), the 3 Davignons, William Gorman and Pauline Lee (with stock), Gilfort Brothers, Clyde Phillips, Professor Wood and troupe of educated ponies, Mr. Chas. Pettit with full band and orchestra. . . . Orrin Bros. New York Clipper, November 8, 1890, 559.
1890: The Orrin Brothers' Show reports good business for the ___ week of the season in Mexico. Edward Orrin joins the company Dec. 3. The Gilfort Brothers left here Nov. 29, and the Jordans and Prof. G. L. Wood with ___ performing ponies are booked for the same destination. This will make forty three people that have been sent to the show, in addition to a band of ten performers. New York Clipper, December 6, 1890, p. 619.
1894: At the Orrin Bros.' Show, City of Mexico, the Easter reopening, March 25, was a big success. The water pantomime, "A Marriage Near(?) Naples," was produced in excellent form and has proved since then one of the best attractions ever done at the Circus Teairo(?). It will continue in the bill for several weeks. All the performers are reported as well. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 71.
1906: Orrin Brother's Circus celebrated its twenty-fifth anniversary in Mexico Feb. 27, with a special programme, a copy of which has been received the Clipper. The list of attractions follows: Orchestral overture, the Nelson Troupe, eccentriques; Mr. Tessler. equilibrist; Adgie Castillo and her lions; Richard Bell, clown; Wolkowsky Troupe, orchestral offering; Loreta Trio, the Zolars, acrobats; Helen Gerard, haute ecole; . . . On Washington's Birthday the circus gave its twentieth annual benefit performance for the American Hospital, among those appearing being: Montague's Cockatoo Circus, Tessier, the Zolars, Texas and Katrina, . . . the Wolkowskey Troupe, Richard Bell, Adgie and her lions, Helen Girard and Sie Hassan Ben Ali's Arabs. The statement of the hospital auditor shown that in the twenty years elapsed the total benefit receipts amount to $13,445.46. The receipts have steadily increased each year over that preceding, until last year they amounted to $1,618.95. New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114.
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Miles Orton's - 1889, 1890-92
1889: A Wild West Show has been added to Orton’s Circus. Chas. Ellis continues as the general agent. New York Clipper, May 4, 1889.
1889: Notes from the Miles Orton Show. A. B. Scoville writes that they are doing a fair business, and are playing the river towns on the Ohio and its tributaries. The stock is in first class order, and all attaches are well. The show is touring on the steamer General Harris and a barge. New York Clipper, August 17, 1889, p. 372.
1889: The Miles Orton Show report meeting with success in Louisiana. They play New Orleans Christmas week. New York Clipper, December 14, 1889, p. 663.
1889: The Miles Orton Show reports playing Louisiana to big business. Geo. Richards has started his advance to back the Orton Show, and French & Price's Floating Opera House are all in the same Bayou, so it is lively in the extreme. New York Clipper, January 4, 1890, p. 711.
1890: The Miles Orton Circus closed a satisfactory season Jan. 21, at Natchez, Miss., and shipped to winter quarters at Vicksburg. The steamboat Geo Dawes, which had transported the show through the season, sailed for Cincinnati, O., Jan. 2 . . . New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 797.
1890: Orton's Show wants performers in every branch. Musicians, concert people, sideshow people, good boss canvas man, property man, boss butcher and reserve seat seller. . . . Miles Orton, manager. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 833.
1890: Chas. Ellis has canceled his engagement with Miles Orton's Show, and has been engaged as contracting agent with Stowe(?) Bros.' Circus. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
1890: Paducah, Kentucky. Miles Orton's Circus passed up the river 23(?) on their way to the Cumberland River towns. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 115.
1890: Paducah, Kentucky. Miles Orton's Circus were to have opened here 12(?), but were prevented from doing so. While the circus was here last summer a Mrs. Romaine(?) was injured by falling through the seats, and when the circus arrived 11(?), she informed manager Orton that unless he paid her a good sum a suit would be brought against him. A definite amount could not be fixed, and Mr. Orton, rather than stand the consequences, pulled up stakes and departed. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 163.
1890: The roster of the Miles Orton Circus is: Miles Orton, Norma and Gordon Orton, Bernard Dooley . . . Harry Wilson, F.(?) H. Hopkins . . . Albert Orton, Chas. Carroll and wife . . . Prof. F. H. De Miller, leader of band: Bert Co?fer, Wm. Hines, J. Kyle and ___. The show reports good business, and the ghost appears regular every Sunday. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.
1890: Wanted, billposters, Miles Orton Circus. Dan R. Robinson, Shreveport, La. New York Clipper, November 29, 1890, p. 603.
1891: Miles Orton's New Railroad Shows, wanted people in all branches of the business. Also band eight mouthpieces. Address Miles Orton, Lafayette Hotel, New Orleans, La. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 782.
1892: Wanted, season of 1892, Miles Orton's New Mastodon R. R. Shows, Circus, Wild West, Real Roman Hippodrome, Combined with Geo. W. Rentz's European Menagerie. Circus attractions of all kinds. Riders, male and female, gymnasts, aerial artists, special and novelty acts. First class agents in all departments. General railroad contractor. Car agents, thirty billposters, boss canvasman, master transportation (salary no object), grooms . . . property men, four, six and eight horse drivers. Wanted for sideshow, all kinds of curiosities and band. Miles Orton, sole owner and manager, permanent winter quartrs, Louisville, Ky. Sideshow people address B. L. Bowman, Jeffersonville, Ind. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 790.
1892: B. L. Bowman and wife, and Prof. W. Young have closed their season with the Rentz Show through the South, and are wintering at Louisville, Ky. Mr. Bowman will manage the sideshow next season, and is busy fitting up a new sideshow for the opening early in April. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 795.
1892: Harry Pollworth, slack wire performer and juggler, has signed with Miles Orton's Circus for next season. New York Clipper, March 5, 1892, p. 859.
1892: Wanted, musicians for Orton's Circus, solo B-flat cornet, E-flat cornet and baritone. Andy Barthold, write. Address Harry Emmings, __ Second Street, Louisville, Ky. P.S. Would also like to hear from other musicians. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 13.
1892: The Asbeys have signed with the Miles Orton Show. They will produce their "Living Statuary" specialty, besides appearing in the concert. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
1892: Fred G. Conrad goes with Miles Orton's Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
1892: Hop Little and Roy Nelson, formerly with Terrell Bros.' Circus, have gone to Louisville, Ky., to join the billposting brigade of Orton's Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
1892: Roster of the sideshow with Miles Orton's Show: R. L. Bowman, manager and orator; Mrs. R. L. Bowman, Agnes May, Prof. W. Young, Gertie Pla??, Mamie Clay, Prof. W. Bunch, Sidonio, Charlie Scott, Prof. W. H. Jacobs's Colored Band of eight men; Jim Reed, in charge of sideshow canvas, with four assistants; a cage of monkeys, and a cage of birds, a 60ft. round top, with a 40ft. middle piece, and sixteen new double deck paintings. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
1892: Call. People engaged for Miles Orton's New Mastodon Railroad Shows report at Louisville, Ky., for rehearsals April 14(?). Show opens April 16. Miles Orton, manager, 117 Eleventh Street. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 78.
1892: Fred G. Conrad continues to hold the position of general agent of the Miles Orton Show. The report that A. L. Link was doing the work was erroraneous. Mr. Link was engaged as railroad contractor, and not as general agent, which Mr. Conrad fills very creditably and satisfactorily. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
1892: Wanted for Miles Orton New Mastodon Show. Circus people. Riders and aerial acts, four and six horse drivers, canvas men and bosses. Henderson, Ky. May 7, Princeton KY May 9, Central City KY May 10. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 143.
1892: The Asbeys have closed with Miles Orton's Circus. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
1892: Wanted, musicians for Orton's Circus, cornets, bass, e-flat clarinet and alto. Address Harry Emmings, leader, Orton's Circus Band, Mt. Pleasant, Pa. June 11, West Newton, Pa., 13, McKeesport, Pa., 14. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 224.
1892: C. Asbey, who was recently with Miles Orton's Circus, has signed as general contracting and advance agent for Wm. Thompson's New Australian Circus, Museum and Menagerie. It is a four car railroad show, and the prices are ten and twenty-five cents. Everything is reported to be in good condition. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
1892: Miles Orton's Circus reports good business and everybody well. They have not had a day's rain since June __. It takes sixteen cars to transport the show, and Mr. Orton is expecting every day some more show property that he recently bought. . . . New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
1892: On the road, circuses: Orton's, Mt. Pleasant MI July 20, Harrison 21, Clare 22 . . . New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 300.
1892: Wanted, 15 billposters, for long season South, with Miles Orton's R. R. Shows. Address Fred G. Conrad, gen. agent, Miles Orton's Shows, care of Burton & Co., city billposters, Richmond, Va. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 352.
1892: Wanted, Miles Orton's New Railroad Shows, special and novelty acts. Long season. Address Miles Orton, . . . Mocksville, NC Sept. 14, High Point 15. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 435.
1892: Miles Orton's Monster R. R. Shows want people in all branches of the circus business for tenting season of 1893. Gymnasts, aerial acts, hippodrome and Wild West riders (male and female), concert and side show people. Also railroad contractor and general agent. Want a close contractor, car agent, twenty bill posters, boss hostler, master of transportation. There will not be any privilege people with this show. Miles Orton, Box 48, North Vernon, Indiana. New York Clipper, December 24, 1892, p. 680.
1893: Things are on the move at the winter quarters of the Miles Orton Show, at North Vernon, Ind. A lot of performing animals have just been purchased by the management. New York Clipper, February 4, 1893, p. 766.
1894: Miles Orton is at his home in North Detroit, breaking a lot of stock. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 735.
1894: Miles Orton is keeping things rather lively at his ring barn, with two principal acts. Norman(?) and Garden, and Myran, in his manege act, will be fine, and so will the three pony acts, and the dog which will stand on his head while riding in this principal act. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
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Overton's - 1890
All people engaged for Overton's One Ring Circus will please report at Owensboro, Ky., Jul __, for rehearsal. Wanted, a finish rider. W. L. Collins, manager. New York Clipper, July 26, 1890, p. 319.
Wanted, for Overton's One Ring Circus, an aerial team, a slack wire bar team and lady gymnasts. Address W. S. Collins, manager, Owensboro, Ky. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 350.
Owensboro, Kentucky. Overton's One Ring Circus, which started in this city about two weeks ago, has come to an untimely end. The show was at Whiteville __. While there the performers grew troublesome, and demanded their money. Business having been bad, there was none for them, and they left the show, coming back to Owensboro. The circus outfit was sent here, and as soon as it arrived it was attached by a boarding house keeper for the board of the performers during its stay here, and is now in the hands of the Sheriff. W. L. Collins, the manager, says he intends to pay off every cent of his indebtedness, and in October will start out with another show. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 374.
Wanted quick, for Overton's One Ring Circus, people in all branches of the circus and concert business, male and female; riders with or without stock; trained animals or any new or novel features; also an experienced advance agent; small band to double. Those that can work in ring or concert preferred. . . . Show goes by steamboat. Opens Sept. __. Address W. L. Collins, sole proprietor and manager, Owensboro, Ky. Privileges for sale. New York Clipper, September 6, 1890, p. 415.
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Parento's - 1894
Wanted, for Parento's R. R. Show, people in all branches circus business (except riding). Address Sig. Parento, Washington, Ind. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 140. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Parlor Circus - 1892
Wanted, good second hand round top, 80 or 90 foot, with poles and everything ready to set up, cheap for cash. Also want eight tiers of seast. I also have for sale cheap, a 50x60 top, with seats to suit. Address Geo. G.(?) Craft, Parlor Circus, Fonda, Ia. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 15. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Great Patterson Shows - 1911
Ed McClure, goes ahead of the Great Patterson Shows as a contracting agent. Jas. Patterson, the manager, has during the winter kept a force of men busy at the winter quarters, and the coming season will find the Patterson Shows larger than ever. The show opens at Joplin, Mo., April 29. New York Clipper, February 11, 1911, p. 1291. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Patterson' Jungleland - 1912
J. J. Bejano and Mrs. James Patterson, owners, opened at Paola, Kan., April 24, the Great Patterson Shows to tremendous business. The show carries 120 feet of banners, illuminated by four flaming arcs. On the inside is featured Patterson's baby lions, Chico, man eating gorilla; Mexican boxing roosters, octopus, mice circus, Ugo, strangest girl alive, and eignty-five cages of rare, strange and curious animals. The show is housed in a mammoth red and white tent, one hundred feet long, made by the United States Tent & Awning Co., and is a masterpiece of the tent maker's art. Doc Graham is manager of the show. James Patterson writes: "I have been buying tents and show paraphernalia for a number of years past, but in all my experience I have never received or witnessed an outfit delivered to any showman such as has been sent to me by the United States Tent and Awning Co., of Chicago. It is one that proves a beauty and a joy forever. At my opening in Paola, Kan., every showman that passed the tent looked it over and said: 'What a magnificent tent.' Furthermore the people who visited my animal show remarked: 'Isn't this a grand tent?' " New York Clipper, May 18, 1912, p. 16. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Pawnee Bill's Wild West - 1894
Notes from Pawnee Bill's Wild West. - Wm. H. Gardner, of Pawnee Bill's Wild West, arrived at Antwerp March 18. He writes that the buildings of the exposition are nearly completed, and are magnificant. The buildings for the Pawnee Bill Wild West are also commenced. The ground contains seven acres. The grand stand is of iron, and will seat 12,000 people. D. M. Browning, Commissioner of Indian Affairs, has issued the necessary permit to take the Indians abroad, and it has been approved by Secretary H??? Smith. The Mexicans have already arrived, and are stationed at the St. James Hotel. The live stock, including a herd of buffalo and wild Texas steers, one hundred head of stock in all, and all the Indians and Mexicans . . . The first cabin passengers sail from N. Y. City 11. The show will be thoroughly equipped and is now complete in every detail. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 71. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Perry & Gorman's Indoor Circus - 1918
Produce Circus For Camps. Perry & Gorman, with offices in the Gaiety Theatre building, have secured a routing over the United States Govenment's Liberty Theatre circusit for "Circusland," an indoor society circus. The itinerary takes the show into eighteen of the largest and best equipped of the Liberty theatres, the smaller houses of leaner capacity and equipment being passed up in the routing. The show is to open December 15 at Camp Merritt, N. J., and is scheduled to close March 10 at Camp Sherman, Ohio. It may then be booked into regular week stands. Sixteen recognized circus features have been booked, and several supernumeraries, such as clowns, freaks and sideshow curio people, will also contribute their efforts and "bits" to the production. Headed by "Nervo," the "human comet," the acts already booked include MacAleavey, jumping expert; Al Reeves, and escape artist; the Sullivans, comedy acrobatic boxing midgets; the Aerial Lavines, a casting act; Starrett's one-ring comedy dog and pony circus; Van Jerome, the "frog man" contortionist and late of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows; Six Posing Nymphs in plastic posing; H. F. Stowe and his Arabian high school horse, "Snowball"; the Burns Sisters, gymnasts and iron jaw performers; the "Circus Billposters" grotesque pantomimic farce creators; Three Franklin Sisters, an aerial act, and the Berlo Sisters, tan experts. Harry Bonnell is to be the business manager. Perry & Gorman put on a couple of very pleasing indoor circus shows at the nearby ??? last winter for the benefit of the Soldiers' Athletic Fund of the Y. M. C. A. This type of show has proven very popular with the soldiers. New York Clipper, November 6, 1918, 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.
C. G. Phillips - 1891
Wanted, good musical team that can play in band and do couple of good turns, song and dance, etc. Wanted, leader of band, double violin, also good loud tuba player. Wanted, good equilibrist and juggler. Brother act. Concert people. Mand and wife that are good for concert. Wanted, to buy __ lengths of circus seats complete, also 4(?) lengths of reserved seats with folding backs. Address C. G. Phillips' Circus, Mecca, O. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 52.
Call. All people engaged for C. G. Phillips' Colossal, Consolidated, Combined Shows report at Mecca, Ohio for rehearsal, Saturday, May 2. Nothing but very small trunks go. Bristolville and Courtland, O., nearest R. R. stations. Wanted, equilibrist, musical team that play brass, tuba player, other good performers. For sale, one tent 70x105(?), 10(?) rolls "U. T. C." scenery, done in oil. C. G. Phillips . . . New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 127.
The following is the makeup of C. G. Phillips' Colossal, Consolidated, Combined Shows for this season: C. G. Phillips, manager; E. G.(?) Phillips, treasurer; H. W. Mann, general agent; W. Banghman(Baughman?), boss billposter, with eight assistants; Nelson Sinclair, equestrian director; Thomas Dedrick, boss canvasman, with fifteen assistants; J. J. Hood, boss hostler, with twelve assistants; Eugene Busbee(?), leader of band of ten men; J. L. Kelley, leader of orchestra, eight pieces. Performers: Eckhardt Brothers, Hosterman and Rowe, Nelson Sinclair and Carlisle, Joe Earl and C. R. Lamont, Acker and Collins . . . Jas. H. Harding, Frank S. Baldwin, Lewis P.(?) Baldwin, John Bayer, R. V. Stinson . . . N. Sinclair's troupe of trained dogs. This show will carry sixty people and fifty head of stock, a new 100ft. round top tent, with a 40ft. middle piece; dressing room, 40x60ft. The show will travel by wagon, touring Ohio and Pennsylvania. They carry one ring and an elevated stage. The opening will be at Mecca, O., May 2. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 134.
Wanted, people in all branches of the circus biz. Troupe of dogs. Address C. G. Phillips, Mecca, Ohio. Show opens May 2. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 144.
C. G. Phillips' Circus disbanded at Hillsboro, O. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
Note: 1891, C. G. Phillips had a "U.T.C." company. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 487.
1892: Manager C. G. Phillips met with a serious accident April 19, while out riding. . . . He is now resting . . . at his winter quarters, Mecca, O. The work of putting the show in shape for the opening, the second week in May, is being pushed as rapidly as possible by competent workmen in each department, under the able direction of Mrs. C. G. Phillips and assistant manager B. L. Millikin. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
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Phillips & Scott's New United Railroad Shows - 1888
Roster of Phillips & Scott's New United Railroad Shows: Thos. G. Scott, general manager; C. H. Phillips, contracting agent; J. M. Blakslee, advance; Joseph Becker, advertising agent, programmer and privileges. Performers: Ducrow Family, the Martinetti Bros., Willie Martell, Geo. W. Wiedell, J. C. Sullivan, Harry Demonio, Littlie Scott, Mary Phillips, Lena Scott, Minnie Davenport, Andy Amann, equestrian director. Concert: Prof. Chas. N. and Mme. Steen, Josie Amann, Fletcher and Wall, Prof. Jas. A. Quigley and his sideshow, assisted by Prof. W. R. Jones. Prof. R. W. Davenport, leader of band; SAm P. Levi, candy privilege; Allen Black, transportation; Peter Rogers, boss canvasman, with ten assistants; Joe Wolf, boss hostler, with two assistants. The show will travel by rail, and will open in Vandalia, Ill., April 26. New York Clipper, February 18, 1888, p. 784. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
F. W. Pike's - 1892
Prairie Queen, Old Time One Ring Show. Wanted, people in all branches of the circus business (except band) for the above show. Male and female riders with stock, leapers, tumblers, trained animals, etc.; in fact, all strong features. Also skirt dancer and concert people, four and six horse drivers, and canvas men wanted. All privileges for sale. Address F. W. Pike, manager, Charlotte, Mich. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 14.
Wanted, a few more people of all kinds in circus business for my show. Open May 7 at Charlotte, Mich. Address F. W. Pike, Old Time One Wagon Show, Charlotte, Mich. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 112.
Ho?son and Hart have joined F. W. Pike's Circus. W. H. Hopkins will act as equestrian director. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
Wanted, for F. W. Pike's One Ring Circus. Performers in all branches of the biz except riders. Write or telegraph . . . Leslie 20, Stockbridge 21 . . . New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 172.
Reports come from the former memebers of the F. W. Pike Show, which went to the wall at Owasso(sp?), Mich., June 14, claiming unprofessional treatment. These people say that business had been good, and that there was money enough taken in to pay their salaries, had the proprietor seen fit to do so. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
The F. W. Pike Show was destroyed by fire at Jackson, Mich., June 6(?). The reports of unprofessional treatment of employes by the management are claimed by the latter to be false. Nearly all the people are at the show's winter quarters, Charlotte, Mich., ready to take the road as soon as a new ___ and outfit are finished. The show will resume operations about July 16(?). New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 276.
A few more people in all branches of show business. Go on the road July 14(?). Also band. Write F. W. Pike's, Old Time One Ring Show, Charlotte, Mich. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 289.
F. W. Pike's (Tiger Bill) Show is still on the road. The canvas burned at Jackson, Mich., has been replaced. A new dressing room top and two new horse tents have been added. The show carried forty head of baggage stock and six(?) head of ring stock. The roster includes: F. W. Pike, proprietor and manager; Mrs. F. W. Pike, privileges; Claude La Verne, equestrian director; W. W. Record(?), advance; and Prof. White's band of eight pieces. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 340.
1893: Wanted, for the monarch of all 25c shows, people in all branches of the circus business. Riders with stock, trick stock, team of dog and goat, or any strong feature. People who can do two or more turns, also leap and tumble, concert people in all branches, also musicians in brass. We travel by wagon with our own stock and good accommodations. Canvas men and drivers wanted, also advance agent and billposters. Address A. W. McKinney(?), Lock Box ___, Charlotte, Mich. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 211.
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Place's London - 1893
Richard Place's London Circus will begin operations July 12(?) at Cleveland, O. The show will use a 110(?)ft. round top with two __ft. middle pieces, and will travel by rail. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Pomeroy's and Pomeroy & Samuels - 1889, 1891-92 (various titles)
1889: W. H. Pomeroy, of Pomeroy's Western World Show, was here [Missouri] last week superintending his printing, which is being done by the Great Western Printing Co. Mr. Pomeroy is investing $25,000 in a Wild West show which is being organized at Paw Paw, Mich. They will start about May ?. New York Clipper, April 13, 1889, p. 72.
1889: Pomeroy’s Western World Troupe is in the south eastern corner of Michigan, getting ready to go into Ohio. Over one hundred people and about one hundred and twenty five head of horses, ponies, mules, donkeys, etc. make up the show. Everybody is enjoying the best of health after having passed through five weeks of steady rain in the northern part of the state. Prof. Van De Mark joined July 22 with his band of ten pieces. Business is reported very good. New York Clipper, August 3, 1889,p. 340.
1890: J. A. Bennett & Co. Grand Circus Royal. Wanted, performers in all branches of the circus business. Riders, male and female, with their own stock. Band of seven(?) mouthpieces and two drums, boss canvasman, chandelier and property man. Wanted to buy. Combination band wagon, cross cages and ___ heavy(?) baggage wagons. Buy or rent, a sleeper, ___ stock and ___ flat car. Address W. B. Pomeroy, manager, St. James Hotel, St. Louis, Mo. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 380.
1891: Wanted, for Pomeroy's Circus Royal. Musicians, B flat cornet, alto both to double ___, also double trummer. Address Al Parker(?), leader of band, ___, Mo. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 814.
1891: Wanted quick, to complete Pomeroy & Samuel's Great International Shows, people in all branches of the circus business. Riders, leapers, gymnasts, clowns, four and six horse drivers, chandeliermen, and good contracting agent and ten bill posers. Would like to hear from stong band that doubles in string, troupe of Arabs and troupe of "Japs." Also from Alf. Miaco and wife and Masters (ticket sellers with Bennett show). Show opens May 4, at San Antonio, Texas; Pullman sleepers and accommodations the best. Privileges for sale. Address C. C. Wilson, general agent, San Antonio, Texas. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 126.
1891: City Local News. [San Antonio, TX] W. H. Pomeroy and Max Samuels are organizing a circus, soon to take the road. Daily Light (San Antonio, TX), May 4, 1891.
1891: Pomeroy & Samuels’ Circus will open its season May 16. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
1891: Wanted immediately to complete Pomeroy & Samuel's Great International Railroad Shows, good high class novelty acts in all branches of the circus business. All men must leap and tumble. Want lady and gentleman riders with stock, bar teams, flying return trapeze act, troupe of Arabs and troupe of "Japs." Open May 16, instead of May 4 as stated in last "ad" (mistake); long season and best accommodations. Sideshow privilege for sale. Address quick C. C. Wilson, general agent, 403 Nueva Street, San Antonio, Texas. Also want chandelier man, property men and working men. Address C. E. Ward, boss canvasman, San Antonio, Texas. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 160.
1891: The De Soto Bros. have closed with Clark Bros.' Circus Royal and joined Pomeroy & Samuels' Circus. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
1891: A. N. Davis, who has been in the stock at the Standard Theatre, Dallas, Tex., the past six months, closed May 21(?), to take charge of the Pomeroy & Samuels International R. R. Show band, that opened at San Antonio May 30. He will have the following people in his band: Harry Taylor, Joe Livingstone, Pedro Bravo, Francisco C. Anaya, Henry Lutrell . . . Chas. Trask, E. Long and T. Rooney. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 215.
1891: Alf. Dorian, contortionist, joined Pomery & Samuels' Circus at Pueblo, Col., July 27. New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 365.
1891: News from the Great International Railroad Shows. We are now traveling through Texas to good business, with fine weather. Fred Harris, late top mounter, joined the show at Groesbeck(?), Tex., to work with Tom Nichols. John Or?one, after one year retirement from the business, joined from Detroit and joined the show at Hear?e, Tex., to do middle man for Nichols and Harris. They will be known as Three Nichols Brothers, and are now practicing an excellent brother act. Mr. Samuels is away on a visit to San Antonio on business. New York Clipper, October 17, 1891, p. 535.
1891: Notes from the Great International R. R. Show. The roster: Pomeroy & Samuels, lessees; W. H. Pomeroy, manager; Max Samuels, treasurer and director; M. Burgo?er, general agent, with eight assistatnts in advance; Alf. Dorian, equestrain director; Dan Malcolm, Millie Theola . . . Clara Dempsey . . . Octavia, Will, Cleo, Boyd and Ralston, Sig. Lagone, Delmore, W. Powell . . . Fred Nichols, A. N. Davis, leader of band, with ten mouthpieces; T. J. Clancy, boss canvasman, with fourteen assistatns; Brock Conners, master of transportation, with eight assistants. We use a 100ft. round top, with a ?0ft. middle piece, dressing room, cook tents, horse tents, etc. Ten beautiful Norman horses are used on our band chariot. We travel exclusively by rail. Have been out thirty-eight weeks, and will make a long season South. Business is simply immense and everybody is happy. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
1891: Houston, Texas. Pomeroy & Samuels' Dime Show 16, 17, 18, had fair crowds. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 644.
1891: Houston, Texas. Pomeroy & Samuels' Dime Show was attached here 19(?) for wages due employes. The trouble was afterwards amicably settled to the satisfaction of the attaches. New York Clipper, December 5, 1891, p. 653.
1891: The Great International R. R. Shows (Pomery & Samuels, lessees) closed without notice Dec. ?, owning, it is stated, all the people back salary. Many are in a destitute condition. The following musicians have gone to work at Riche's Houston Street Theatre, San Antonio, Tex.: A. N. Davis, Pedro Bravo, Jos. Livingstone, Tom Fallon, D. Van Cook(?) and Chas. L? Bounty. New York Clipper, December 26, 1891, p. 699.
1892: The executive staff of the Great International Railroad Shows consists of W. H. Pomeroy, lessee and manager . . . A. C. West, general agent; Alf Dorian, equestrian director; Prof. C. H. Lang, T. J. Clancy, boss canvasmen(?) . . . and G. Valentine. The show opens April 18(?). New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
1892: The Great International Railroad Shows, W. H. Pomeroy, sole lessee and manager, will open at San Antonio, Texas, April 18, 1892. Wanted, people in all branches of circus business, including sideshow and concert people, riders with or without stock, small troupe trick horses or ponies, billposters, lithographers, canvasmen, grooms, hostlers, etc. Will lease any or all privileges. Call. report by April ??. N.B. I carry all kinds of pets for performers, such as dogs, cats, parrots, squirrels, rabbits, bears, and even elephants . . . New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 63.
1892: The Leons, J. T. and Master Earl, join the International Circus at San Antonio, April 23(?). New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 98.
1892: Wanted, for The Great International R. R. Shows, good bar team with bars, double drummer, boss property man, a few more bill posters for car No. 2. Address W. H. Pomeroy. Billposters address T. B. Long, San Antonio, Texas. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 143.
1892: The regular tenting season of the Great International Railroad Shows opened auspiciously May 5, at San Antonio, Tex. The opening was creditable. The roster: W. H. Pomery, lessee and manager; T. B. Long, contracting and general agent; Frank De Leon, treasurer; Milton M. Lyon, press representative; John Lewis, manager side show annex; Wm. Connors, master transportation; T. J. Clancey, boss canvas man . . . Prof. T. P. Fallon, the Earl Sisters, Prof. C. H. Long, Alf. Dorian, the Leons, the Dixon Bros. and Jos. Scott. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
1892: Roster of the Great International Railroad Shows: W. H. Pomeroy, sole lessee and manager; H. R. De Leon, treasurer; T. R. Long, general agent; F. J. McCarthy, contracting agent; J. F.(P.?) Rothschild, agent in charge of car No. 2; A. C. Ade, in charge of paper, and eight billposters; C. Lindeman, in charge of box brigade, with four assistants; M. Lyon, lithographer; D. Whealley(?), programmer; James Finnegan, master of transportation, with eight assistants; T. S. Clancy, boss canvas man, with fourteen assistants; S. W. Marshburn, chandelier man, with two assistants; James Jones, boss hostler, with five assistants; Gil Valentine, chef de la cuisine; cook tent, Powers, with five assistants; W. Murphy, boss property man, with four assistants; Uncle John Lewis, in charge of sideshow; Pop Carpenter, general solicitor; Frank Wallace, head porter of car No. 4, with three assistants; J. S. Harp, reserved seats; Alfred Dorian, equestrian director; C. H. Long, Theo Harrella, Mlle. Minnelta, Jas. Scott, Alf. Dorian, Sig. Lagone, J. T. Leon, Mast. Earl, Mlle. Rosa, Mamie Blake, Dixon Bros., Zebenos, Mexican Family (five in number), Earl Sisters (four in number), trick ponies, educated donkeys and a large troupe of dogs. Mlle. Carrolla makes a balloon ascension daily. T. P. Fallon(Pallon?) is leader of band, with ten mothpieces. They use a 110ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, a 50ft. museum top, a 40ft. dressing room top., two 20x50ft. horse tents and two 20x40ft. cook tents. The show is twice the size it was last season, and everything is brand new, well painted and decorated. As a special feature in the museum, we have Jumbo, the largest horse. Minnetta and Barretta, and Dorian, the man snake, are special features in the big show. The route lays through New Mexico, Arizona and Southern California. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 194.
1892: On the road, circuses: Great International . . . Alburquerque NM June 2, Las Vegas 3 . . . New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
1892: The Great International Railroad Shows move triumphantly on in spite of opposition and excessive stagnation of business in Texas. The show goes merrily on coastward, making more than expenses through a country where the jumps are the longest and the mighty dollars the scarcest. Starting from San Antonio, Tex., May 5(?), the route took us to Laredo, southward, for one week, thence to El Paso, the northern highway out of the big State, showing daily at eleven at points en route with satisfaction to all and our audiences as well. Leaving the drouth stricken district with money in the treasury, whereas for at least three seasons heretofore Manager W. H. Pomeroy had always gone down into his pocket to pull out of this self same port. If report be true, all previous records of circusing through this State have been outdone this year by the Great International. Through New Mexico via Alburquerque, thence West through Arizona, the show continued to make money at one and two day stands, though the jumps were long and hazardous. The advance, under the generalship of T. B. Long(?), go on toward the setting sun. Everybody is working harmoniously, and we think to the satisfaction of the management throughtout. Some changes have been made in the personnel of the advance since my last, viz.: F. J. McCarty, former contracting agent, retiring in favor of J. Rothschilds, who assumed the "___" June 1, like an old veteran. Everything now looks bright for a successful tour of the Pacific slope. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
1892: From the International Railroad Shows. Notwithstanding that many wiseacres predicted our utter failure in Southern California, we are happy to state that, while our seating capacity has not been taxed to its utmost since we entered the valley of oranges and apricots, we can record the fact of having to ___ to the extras on one or two occasions, and, as the admission price has not been reduced, we find, after balancing accounts to date, a nice little(?) margin in the credit of the 'goblin.' On June 2? Sells Bros.' advance No. 1, arrived at Cotton. Mr. and Mrs. S. H. Barrett and sons, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Stow and twenty-two billposters paid our night show a visit, and everybody with the show, from front door to dressing room, was proud to be able to contribute to their pleasure. It was a rare treat for us to listen to their stories of the big island in the middle of the Pacific. [Sells went to Australia] The roster remains the same, with the exception of H. De Leon, treasurer, who resigned at El Paso, Tex., in favor of J. F.(E.?) Findley and the Batys(?), Chas. and Kitty, who joined at Albuquerque, N.M. Minnetta is a favorite in this country. At San Jacinto, Chas. and Kitty Baty(?) fell to the ground, a distance of __ft., while doing a swinging drop from the higher trapeze. Outside of a few bruises they are O.K. T. J. McCarthy has been called back from the advance to assume the position of assistant manager. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 276.
1892: On the road, circuses: International Railroad, Santa Anna Cal. July 6, Oceanside 7, San Diego ?-10, National City 11 . . . Anaheim 14. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
1892: The property of the "Great International Railroad Shows," exhibiting in Southern California under the management of W. H. Pomeroy, was attached at Los Angeles June 27, on a small claim for wages, and the following day other attachments were levied to secure payment of local claims and a draft from Texas. The aggregate of these amounts, with costs, was about $150(?), which was settled after some difficulty. In connection with the matter, Mr. Pomeroy served an affidavit on the officer making the attachment, showing that the property belonged to a man in Texas. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
1892: On the road, circuses: International Railroad, Capistrano, Cal. July 13, Anaheim, 14. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.1892: Alfred Dorian, contortionist, is with the Great International Railroad Shows. They are touring Southern California. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
1892: W. H. Pomeroy's International Railroad Show is reported to have collapsed at Anaheim, Cal. Salaries are said to have been arrears. The performers hired a hall and gave a performance, realizing sufficient to take them to Los Angeles, where some secured other engagements. . . . New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
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Potter's - 1894
1893: Roster of Potter's Big R. R. Shows for season of 1894: Ben Potter, proprietor; Joe F.(?) Sawyer, manager; Mattie Potter, treasurer . . . Cora Latamore . . . Ben Potter and wife, the three Sawyers, Joe, Code and Pauline . . . Bill Leonard, leader of band of six piece. The show opens at M??an, Ind., using two tops, one sleeper and two box cars. Special paper will be used exclusively the coming season, and will be very attractive. New York Clipper, December 9, 1893, p. 642. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Prescott's - 1894
1894: Wanted, to open C. F. Prescott's Big Pavilion Shows, . . . performers that do two or more turns in all branches of circus business; those playing brass perferred. Band of 4 or 5 mouthpieces . . . New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 158.
Note: Charles F. Prescott, owner. See "The Eastern Circus," White Tops, Vol. 21, Nos. 1-2 (Jan-Feb), 1948, pp. 5-6.
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Preston's Golden - 1892
On the road, circuses: Golden Circus, Preston's, What Cheer Ia May 18; Rhinebeck 19, Gruncy Centre 2?, Iowa Falls, 2 . . . Lyons Ia. 27, Fulton, Ill. 28. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 167.
On the road, circuses: Golden circus Preston's, Savanna IL May 26, Lyons IA 27, Fullton IL 28. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
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Price & James - 1897
Roster of Price & James' Shows, Brooklyn, N.Y. - We have been playing to the capacity of our 110ft. round tope, with 50ft. middle piece. The show has been hooked up in first class order. The roster: Price & James, proprietors; W. H. Price, manager; Fred O'Brien, general superintendent; Wm. Lowanda, equestrian director; Jake Morton, boss canvas man, with twenty assistants; J. Wenner, chandeliers, three assistants; Smith Whitiker, boss props, three assistants; Prof. Frank Knapp, leader of band of ten pieces; J. C. MItchell, in charge of privileges; Wm. Lowanda, principal somersault rider; Three Herberts, Fred, Ed. and Wash, acrobats, high stiltsand Roman ladders; Mlle. Adelaid, invisible wire; Mlle. Adair, combination trapeze, perch and cloud swing; Nellie Lowanda, high school menage act; Wm. Fowler and wife, comedy hats and balance trapeze clowns; Fred. O'Brien, Louis Whitiker, Wm. Fowler, Dick Cook, Harry Hart, principal tumbler with a hot line up. The concert consists of Cook and Boyd, Mamie Melvin, Master Western and Fred. O'Brien. In the side show James C. Mitchell, manager and lecturer, has proved his ability by the receipts. New York Clipper, June 19, 1897. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Pubillones, Cuba - 1891
Tote Ducrow, of the Pubillones Circus, at Havana, under date of April 25, writes as follows: "The show has been doing finely all over the island of Cuba, and the company are all in good health. We opened here last night (April 24) to a packed house, with the tent was blown away and almost everything destroyed. The losses will be heavy for Mr. Pubillones to bear. His other show - the Salvani Dog and Monkey Show - is making good money, and will not close this season. We will close some time in June. Following is the roster: Faranta Family, Agnes Mora . . . Tony Lowardo, Karl Nichels, Nap? Lowando . . . the Senors Antino Pubillonnes, Orivlo Constantine, Pala?co Rodrigas . . . Conrado Madenga, with Little Tomasito, Cuban clown; Tote Ducrow, principal clown; Santiago Pubillones, proprietor and manager. Charles W. Fish closed last week, and left to join the Barnum & Bailey Show." New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Pullman & Mack - 1884
Pullman & Mack United Mastodon Circus of 1884. Hilliard, 25% proprietor; Pullman, 25% proprietor; Main, 25% proprietor; Mack, 25% proprietor. Hilliard, manager; Mack, side show manager; Prof. Morris, orchestra conductor; Chas. Madden, equestrian director; Prof. Grant, leader of brass band; Geo. Cole, concert manager. Giles Pullman and Walter Main worked the advance with 16 men. Frank Griswold, master of canvas with 18 men. Cyl Bigelow, boss hostler with 30 grooms. Performers: Mlle. Jeanette Burdeau, Chas. Madden, Fred Hall, Max Malott, J. W. White, J. G. Eichinger, Fred Barclay, James West, Harry Mack, Tony Howitt, Chas. Pettit.
The band was composed of 9 men, Sr. Setchel, Orton Setchel, M. K. Tavener and 6 others. Concert was Humpty Dumpty with Jimmy West as the clown, Miss Thorpe, Miss Setchel, and Pettit and White. Sideshow: Fanly, rifle shot and juggler; Zula Zelrik, circassian; Chas. Griffin, magician and vent; Mlle. Allivia, Albino mind reader; Mons. De Tart, giant skeleton; cages of monkeys and birds. Show carried 10 cages, 1 performing elephant, 2 camels, 1 band chariot, 1 open den of lions, 1 tab, jubilee singers, 100 horses, 40 mules and was a wagon show. They opened the 1884 season on May 17 at Chetopa, Kan. Banner Line, August 1, 1958 (No. 267), 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.
Montgomery Queen's - 1878, 1887
Another showman has come to grief, in spite of the attractions of his elephant, hippopotamus and kangaroos. Montgomery Queen, proprietor of the California circus, well-known in the west and south, has file a voluntary petition in bankruptcy. His liabilities are over $160,000, and his total assets are about a score of animals, worth, perhaps, $30,000. Daily Constitution (Atlanta, GA), February 14, 1878.
Following is the roster of Queen’s Circus and Menagerie: Polly & Austin, proprietors; J. A. Polly, treasurer; M. Austin, business and advance agent; Louis Angels, equestrian manager; Manning and Young, the Lingards, James Cameron, Three Yost Brothers, Gayler Sisters, Prof. Hern and trained dogs, Barnell (juggler), O’Brien, P. Harrington, Geo. Clark and William Litten. New York Clipper, July 23, 1887. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Raymond & Co. - 1892
Denver, Colorado. Raymond's Circus and Menagerie is billed for May 3. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
On the road, circuses: Raymond's, Pueblo, Col May ?. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
Denver, Colorado. Raymond's Circus drew crowds at the performances so far. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
Pueblo, Colorado. Right in the wake of the Raymond Show, which comes 9(?), the Cook & Whitby Circus is billed for 13(?). New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
On the road, circuses: Raymond's, Leadville Col. May 12. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
Pueblo, Colorado. Raymond's Circus showed to excellent business . . . New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
1892: On the road, circuses: Raymond & Co.'s, Ridgway, Col. June 2, Ouray 3, Delta 4. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
Raymond's Circus showed at Salt Lake City, Utah, June 17, 18 to fine business. They turned people away from the doors on both evening performances. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 261.
On the road, circuses: Raymond's, Butte City, Mon. June 29. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
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Razzore Circus, South America - 1948-1949
1948: Ship Carrying Circus Hunted in Caribbean. Balboa, C. Z. (AP) - A small motorship carrying a circus - complete with lions, tigers and other beasts - is missing today in the Caribbean. U. S. Navy planes from the Canal Zone, Jamaica and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, have joined in the search for the vessel, the Euzkera, which left Mariel, Cuba, Aug. 28 for Cartagena, Colombia. She was due at Cartagena six days ago. The Euzkera, now under Honduran registry, was described here as a former yacht used by U. S. President McKinley. The Havana agents for the 140-foot craft said she was carrying the Razzore Circus. Accounts as to the number aboard varied. The Havana agents said there were 46 passengers and 11 crew members. Reports here said there were from 55 to 67 aboard. Binghamton Press (Binghamton, NY), September 8, 1948, p. 28.
1949: Tragedy Hits But Circus Goes On. By Charles Fernandez. Havana, Cuba - Circus life breeds stout hearts. Because of that and an abiding faith in the Almighty the last of the Razzores is going on with the show. Out of the despair of one of the saddest tragedies in circus history this 49-year-old son of the sawdust has emerged with an object lesson in spiritual courage. Left alone and broken-hearted, the real-life Pagliacci is back with a new show as if in desperate defiance of the blue Caribbean waters that swallowed his money, his circus - and his family.
Born for the Circus. Emilio Rogelio Razzore was born of, and for, the circus. As a tottering tot of 5 he started out to amuse and entertain in the circus which his father and his father's father had made the best known in all of Latin America. The Brazilian-born lad did everything. As the big top moved from country to country he swung from the trapeze, he tamed lions, he played the clown. When his Italian father died, it naturally befell Emilio as the eldest child to carry on the show which Grandfather Razzore had founded in Rio de Janeiro in 1836. The job wasnt too difficult; Emilio had loyal help. The Razzores, with the closeness of blood and circus clannishnss, were a tightly knit family.
Plenty of Help. Brother Romulo was a jack-of-all-trades under the tent. Brother Juan doubled as clown and acrobat. Sister Amanda was good as aerialist and general acrobat. Emilio's wife, Betsabel, was soloist with the circus band. And their children - Moraima, 18, Guillermo, 14, and Willie, 9 - were in the show. Romulo's wife, Fresolina, worked with Emilio in the lion's cage, and Juan's spouse, Ainaims, lent beauty to the circus pageantry. Then there were four nephews and nieces; Juan Razzore, 16-year-old acrobat, and his 11-year-old sister, Dolinda, just a big-top beginner; Emilio de Laudo, the 18-year-old band leader, and 5-year-old Amandita, who was like a daughter to Emilio. When times were bad the family alone had put on the whole show. But times were good now—the circus had just completed a successful two-year run in Cuba.
Tragedy Strikes. Thus it was late last August when Emilio bid his 14 kinfolk and 27 other members of his troupe "bon voyage" at the Havana docks. The motor vessel Euzkera, which had been the presidential yacht of William McKinley, had been signed to take the circus, including 60 trained animals and equipment valued at $300,000, to Cartagena, Colombia. Emilio was to fly ahead to lay the groundwork. Emilio got there, but his circus never did. During the clear night of Sept. 1 the Euzkera capsized. The circus, the animals, the Razzore family disappeared beneath the blue waters. Nine of the 41 aboard survived —including Jesus Vargas, the
monkey trainer; Santiago Bravo, the Negro lion tamer; three of the six Chinese Chang brothers; Ruben Morales, Cuban member of the band. But among them was not one Razzore. And with brother Juan went more than $30,000 in cash which represented virtually all of the net from the successful Cuban tour.
Old Friends Help. When Emilio got the sad news to Cartagena he could hardly believe it. With $1,000 in travelers checksand the clothes on his back, he flew back to Havana - aimlessly groping for the answers. Bewildered, unable to sleep or eat, Emilio discovered a measure of solace in the flood of offers of help that poured in from friends and unknowns in all of Latin America. But Emilio declined them all - with gratitude. "I didn't want charity," he explains, laconically. Emilio's life was the circus. Sensing that, a Havana editor prevailed on him to try to organize a new show. He said Havana businessmen would be glad to help him get started anew. The last of the Razzores accepted that suggestion. He took $15,000 from the helpful Habaneros - but only as a loan. And his old circus friends quickly pitched in. Two days before Christmas the Razzore circus - only about a third as large, it's true - opened here in Havana at the same spot where it had played to thousands before the tragedy. And the new show packed them in. Binghamton Press (Binghamton, NY), February 16, 1949, p. 37.
. . . Andres and Aurelio Atayde, operators of three circuses in Mexico, sent him an old tent, bleachers and enough animals to make a decent menagerie. Headline acts of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey circus, winter quartered in Sarasota, offered to perform in the new Razzore show for much less than they ordinarily asked and got. Vargas, the surviving monkey trainer, bought a chimpanzee at the monkey jungle in Miami and trained it to perform in 30 days. Survivor Morales formed a new band. Two days before Christmas the Razzore circus - only about a third as large, it's true - opened here in Havana at the same spot where it had played to thousands beforte the tragedy. Offering such stellar attractions as Ringling's Alzana high-wire family, the Clayton Behee aerial troupe and tht Chinese juggling team, the new show packed them in. But while the majority cheered the Razzore comeback, a few jeered. The father of a victim of the Euzkera shipwreck blamed Emilio. A circus competitor spread damaging rumors. Undaunted, Emilro carried on with the show until even the few recalcitrants were forecd to admit the spiritual courage of the man. Even the elements co-operated. Rain which would have wrecked his tattered and torn tent failed to come during an extended seven week run. . . . Today, with his grief tightly locked behind the glitter of the big top, Emilio Razzore is well on his way to resuming the circus tradition in which his family gave their lives. He has repaid $9000 of the $15,000 loan. He has ordered a new tent for a tour of the interior of Cuba. Later, he plans to spend three months reorganizing the show for possible tour of the old Razzore beat in Latin America. . . . Oakland Tribune (Oakland, CA), February 16, 1949, p. 4A. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Reed's Circus - 1889, 1890-94, 1900, 1901, 1903
1889: A. H. Reed's Circus closed its season Oct. ?? at Carrollton, Ill., where it went into Winter quarters. New York Clipper, November 16, 1889, p. 599.
1890: The Buffine Bros., aerialists, and Fred Kenno, contortionist, have signed with A. H. Reed's Circus for next season. New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 807.
1890: C. L. O'Dell has secured the sideshow privileges with A. H. Reed's Circus. New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 807.
1890: Wanted, for Reed's Circus and Hippodrome. Trained ponies, slack wire, ___ and boss canvasman. Wagon Show. Address A. H. Reed, Carrolton, Ill. New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 28.
1890: Roster of Reed's Twenty-five Cent Show. A. H. Reed, proprietor and manager; Louis Brooks, Lon(?) Brooks . . . Geo. and John, Master Freddy . . . Mrs. Viola Reed . . . A. M. Reed, manager of privileges; Geroge Page, boss hostler with eight assistants . . . The company opened their season at Carrollton, ILL, April 2?, will close at Vernon(?), Ind., Oct 2?. Business is reported uniformly good. New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 323.
1890: Roster of Reed's Big 25 Cent Shows. A. H. Reed, proprietor and manager, as follow: Louis Brooks; Lon Brooks . . . A. Dauchert . . . Mrs. Viola Reed . . . M. D. Richmond, leader of band with ten mouth pieces; Burt Bennett, advance and contracting agent with three assistaants; A. M. Reed, manager of privileges; George Page, boss hostler with eight assistants . . . Show opened the season at Carrollton, Ill., April 26(?); will close season at Vernon, Ind. Oct 2?. Business is good. New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 334.
1890: A. H. Reed, proprietor of Reed's Twenty-five Cent Shows, was last week presented with a handsome diamond pin by members of the company, it being his birthday. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 339.
1891: Wanted, for season '91. People in all branches of circus business. Musicians and boss canvasman. Wagon show. Address A. H. Reed, Vernon, Indiana. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 15.
1891: A. H. Reed's Circus will open its season at Vernon, Ind. May 4(?). The show has been greatly enlarged and entirely, and will carry seventy people. Fifty head of stock and 110(?)ft. round top with a __ft. middle piece will be used. The show will travel by wagon. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 74.
1891: Wanted, for Reed's Circus, cornet, clarionet, also a few more good people. A. H. Reed, Vernon, Indiana. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 123.
1891: The roster of Reed's Circus is: A. H. Reed, proprietor and manager; V.(?) ?. Reed, treasurer; W. Orke, equestrian director . . . A. M. Reed, concert and reserved seat privileges; John Palmer, boss canvasman, with ten assistants . . . W.(?) R.(?) Orke, Lew Brooks . . . J. Butler . . . Mary Page . . . Wilbur and Sullivan; Master Loyal . . . Business is good. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
1891: Lew Brooks, comic jester, with Reed's Big Twenty-five Cent Shows, reports big business through Indiana, and the man in white appears every Sunday. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.
1891: Wanted, for A. H. Reed's Circus, a few good performers, also want to buy small troupe of trained ponies. Wagon show. Address A. H. Reed, Enfield, Illionis, Aug 1, Norris City, Illinois Aug 2, Eldorado, Illinois Aug 3. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 357.
1891: The members of A. H. Reed's Circus took an outing of one day recently. They chartered a train at Chrisney(?), Ind., and went to Rockport on the Ohio River, where the day was pleasantly spent in boating and fishing. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
1891: A. H. Reed's Circus closed its ninth tenting season, Oct. 24, at Carrollton, Ill. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 593.
1892: Wanted, for A. H. Reed's Circus season, 1892. People in all branches of the circus business. Performers, musicians, boss canvasman and chandelier man. Show travels by wagon. A. H. Reed, Carrollton, Green Co., Illinois. New York Clipper, January 9, 1892, p. 742.
1892: The Three Burtons, athletes and aerialists, and Will Mineer, clown, have been engaged for A. H. Reed's Circus. C. Burton will act as equestrian director. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 792.
1892: Edwin Geyer and wife have signed with A. H. Reed's Circus. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 827.
1892: Prof. Wm. Jones and wife have signed for the museum annex with A. H. Reed's Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
1892: Wanted, for A. H. Reed's Circus, concert people, must double in brass. Man to play first violin and double tuba(?); also side show people. Edgar Geyer write. Address A. H. Reed, Carrollton, Greene Co., Ill. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 43.
1892: Call. People engaged for A. H. Reed's Circus report at Carrollton, Greene Co., Ill. for rehearsal May ?. A. H. Reed, Carrollton, Ill. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 108.
1892: On the road, circuses: Reed's, Enfield IL June 1, McLeansborough 2. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
1892: Reed's Circus is doing well in Illinois, according to all accounts. The show uses a 100ft. round top, with two 50(?)ft. middle pieces. VJune 11, 1892, p. 210.
1892: A. H. Reed's Big Twenty-Five Cent Wagon Show is now on its tenth week, and all connected are well and happy. The gentleman in white walks every Sunday. At Allendale, Ill., Mrs. Viola Reed, wife of our worthy proprietor, was pleasantly surprised at the conclusion of her act with her trick horses, by a magnificent diamond necklace, the gift of the members of the company. Clarence Burton made the speech, to which Mrs. Reed responded in a few well chosen words. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 276.
1892: On the road, circuses: A. H. Reed's, Fort Branch IN July 9(?), Owensville 11, Poseyville 12, New Harmony 13. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
1892: Wanted, sideshow people for A. H. Reed's Circus. Fire king, magician who does Punch and make openings, circassian lady who has snakes. Also black face comedian for concert. Wire to Fort Branch, Ind., Saturday, July 9, Owensville, Monday, 11 . . . New Harmony 13. Address A. H. Reed. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 286.
1892: On the road, circuses: A. H. Reed's, New Harmony IN July 13. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
1892: Notes from Walter L. Main's Show. Last week we were visited by Charley Madden, the well known talking and singing clown. He was on his way home to Tiftin(Tiflin?), O., having left the Reed Show, which went into winter quarters in August. . . . New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 422.
1892: Katie Wright has joined Sam C. Wright. They are with A. Reed's Railroad Show. New York Clipper, November 12, 1892, p. 570.
1892: A. H. Reed's Circus closed the season Oct. 10 at North Vernon, Ind., where the stock and wagons are quartered upon the fair grounds. The show opened for the winter season by rail 11 at Jeffersonville, Ind. New York Clipper, November 12, 1892, p. 570.
1893: A. H. Reed's Circus opened at Decatur, Ala. . . . New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
1893: On the road, circuses: A. H. Reed, Decatur, Ala., Feb. 27-March 11. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 833.
1893: A. H. Reed's Railroad Show reports meeting with success. They recently added two new cars. The performance is said to be running smoothly under Fred O. Jones' management. New York Clipper, August 5, 1893, p. 346.
1893: A. H. Reed's Circus closed its season Sept. 23 at Big Rapids, Michigan. The show opened at Carrollton, Ill., ___, 1892, making a run of sixteen months without losing a day. The show will be enlarged to twice its former size for next season. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.
1894: A. H. Reed is busy equipping his show for next season. It will be one of the finest wagon shows in the West, and will open in Southern Illinois in May. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
1894: A. H. Reed, proprietor of Reed's Shows, is personally superintending affairs at the show's quarters, near Portiano, Mich., and will take the road about May 15, with twenty wagons and one hundred and fifty head of stock. The show goes out with new canvas throughout, main top, sideshow, horse tent, cook tent, etc. Prof. P. A. Phelps(?) will be Mr. Reed's right hand man, making his second season with the show. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
1894: Chas. Tryon(?) has signed as treasurer of A. H. Reed's Circus for next season. Mrs. Viola Reed is training some new dogs and monkeys to strengthen her troupe. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
1894: M. D. Richmond(?) has signed as leader of the band for Reed's Circus, making his fifth season. Theo. Larges, contortionist, and St. Arno, equilibrist, are the additions to that circus. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 85.
1894: Notes from A. H. Reed's Circus. We are playing to fair business, but not so good as previous seasons. We are now in Missouri, making the inland towns, and the last two weeks have done large business. Manager Reed is in poor health, and not able to travel, but everything runs smoothly under assistant manager Orke(?). The show goes South, and will not close this Winter. New York Clipper, September 1, 1894, p. 405.
1900: Notes and roster of Reed's 25 Cent European Shows. A. H. Reed, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Viola Reed, treasurer. We carry a company of thirty-eight people, twelve wagons and thirty head of stock to transport the show. Big top, dressing room, horse tent, dining tent. Frank ??? has charge of canvas, with eight assistants. Col Jim ??? has the side show and concert. Dan Bulkley(?), leader of band with the following musicians: T. Morris, G. Upchurch, Billy Lowe, E. Boree(?), . . . Peggey Long and Fred Brenner(?). Performers with big show: Clyde Rialdo, equestrian director; Billy Lowe, talking and singing clown; Brenner(?) . . . bars and revolving ladder; Rialdo, equlibrist, aerialist and knockabout clown; Mrs. Viola Reed's troupe of educated dogs and ponies. Little Lena Hays'(?) singing and dancing is a feature in the concerts. C. H. Rigall, advance representative, with two assistants, is doing good work ahead. The route lies through Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky. This is our fifth week out and the ghost walks regularly. New York Clipper, June 2, 1900, p. 310.
1901: Wm. Irwin and wife have signed with A. H. Reed's Circus; also Frank Dempsey, boss canvas man, making his third season. Wanted, for Reed's Circus, season 1901, performers and musicians. Show travels by wagon. A. H. Reed, Verona, Indiana. New York Clipper, February 16, 1901, pp. 1133, 1135.
1903: Mrs. Viola Reed, wife of the owner of Reed's circus, was bitten in the arm and face by a large greyhound about a mile from Frederick this morning. The circus, which showed at Walkersville yesterday and travels overland, was on its way from Walkersville to Middleton and when near Frederick, as Mrs. Reed was putting the hound into a care, it bit her. . . . Daily News (Frederick, MD), August 25, 1903. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Reed's Winter Circus - 1894
Notes from Reed's Winter Circus. - Reed's Winter Circus closes the season April 2 at the Wonderland, Jamestown, Pa. In curio hall: Prof. Black's troupe of educated ponies and dogs; Mlle. Nattalene(?) and her den of serpents. Theatre: the Russells, acrobats; Chas. Merritt, contortionist; Chas. Howell, juggler; Martiere Sisters, trapeze performers; Lawrence, mimic and ventriloquist; and Rose E. Winchester on the slack wire. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 70. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Reese, Levis & Dolphin's Circus - 1885
The complete company of Reese, Levis & Dolphin’s Circus is as follows: D. B. Levis, manager; Frank A. Reese, treasurer; T. G. Dolphin, advance, with four billposters; Chas. Austin knock-about clown and troupe of performing dogs; Mlle. Austin, slack wire and hair slide; Prof. Kane, balancing trapeze, bamboo perch and outside ascension; Downie Bros., brother act and high tight-wire; Little Eddie, contortionist; Mott and Durand, double trapeze and bars; four performing ponies and mules; Prof. Guilo and eight pieces. Evans and Coyne, Miss Leoni and Eddie Watts are the concert people. John Bradley, late of the Wild West Show, has the candy stands. 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.
Reno & Alvord Show - 1900
Opened at Aurora, Nebraska, April 28. Over $2,500 has gone into the show this winter, but they don't owe any one a dollar. W. B. Alvord will be ahead of the show as usual. 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.
Rentz - 1891
1891: Wanted, circus people in all branches, good singing and takling clown, concert people . . . New sideshow outfit for sale. Address E. D. Colvin, manager, __ Third Avenue, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, March 21, 1891, p. 34.
1891: An important deal. George W. Rentz's Circus & De Arley's Great American Circus and Menagerie have joined hands, and from now on will be known as George W. Rentz & Co.'s Circus and Menagerie. They opened at New Orleans, La., March 9, for two weeks, and on 21 they took the road, George W. Rentz managing the venture, and with H.(?) W. Link as general agent. They have eighteen cars to carry the show, and two advertising cars, with four cages of animals, two elephants, three camels, eight head of horses and ponies, two bands and one caliope [sic]. There are nineteen wagons in the parade, fourteen mounted people, elephants, camels, chariots, etc. The canvas is a 111(?)ft. round top with three 50ft. middle pieces. The menagerie top is 100ft., and the sideshow is ___. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
1891: Wanted, for Rentz & Co.'s Circus and Menagerie. A first class contracting agent, also 20 experience bill posters to join at once. Long season to good men. B. W. Link, care Linck's Hotel, Nashville, Tenn. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 70.
1891: Wanted. Rentz & Co's Railroad Circus and Menagerie. Men for sideshow openings and concert announcemtns, boss canvasman, property men, chandelier man, train master, band of ten pieces, ? and 6 horse drivers. Want to buy all kinds of animals, show property, etc. . . . New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 85.
1891: Birmingham, Alabama. Rentz & Co.'s Circus showed to good business _, 3. Ed Powers joined Rentz & Co.'s Circus in this city 23(?). New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
1891: Call. All people engaged with Rentz & Astley's Imperial Shows will report at lot . . . Chicago, May 4. Can use a few more gymnasts and aerial artists. Also have for sale tier seats, sideshow outfit, also light band wagon. Address E. D. Colvin, manager, __ Third Avenue, Chicago. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 147.
1891: Owensboro, Kentucky. G. W. Rentz & Co.'s Circus, headed by Miles Orton, pitched tents here May 11, 12(?), and showed to packed business at every performance. . . . New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 183.
1891: Wanted for Rentz's Shows. People in all branches of circus business and musicians; also, good railroad contractors. T. J. Forde, musician. Address L. Bosco, Rushville, Ind. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 339.
1891: Wanted, for Rentz & Co.'s Monster Railroad Shows, people in all branches of the circus "biz," wild west; also good R. R. contractor. Address quick, T. J. Forde, 80 Dearborn Avenue, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 341.
1891: Wanted, for a long season South, sideshow curiosities, circassian to handle snakes, also good magician who does Punch or talking figures. Would like to hear from Spaff Hyman, Boucher(?) and Burch. Wire to De Arley & O'Brien, Rentz's Circus, Franklin, Ind. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 357.
1891: Wanted, for long season, for Rentz & Co.'s Monster R. R. Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Hippodrome (15 cars, 250 employes). For big show - people in all branches of the circus business, Hippodrome and Wild West people. Address Miles Orton, manager. For Annex - freaks and curiosities of all kinds. Address De Arley & O'Brien, managers. For the advance - first class contracting agent and billposters (agent telegraph). Address C. G. Wilson, general agent. Address all letters care of Russell & Morgan Printing Co., Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 411.
1891: Wanted, for Rentz & Co.'s Monster Shows, first class agents and bill posters. Would like to hear from Oscar Rahm (wire me), Davidson, Moore, Wilder, Adkins and Johnson. Bill posters paid weekly. For big show, people in all branches and band of 10 pieces. Address quick. C. G. Wilson, general agent, Fella Hotel, Roanoke, Va. New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 447.
1891: When Rentz's Circus was all loaded on the train at the freight depot at Salem, Va., last week, awaiting transportation to Christiansburg, a row occurred between some of the employes of the circus in the bar of the Revere House, and those who were engaged in it gradually moved out toward the railroad track. One of the men suddely dropped, whether struck by a rock, beer bottle or brass knuckles it is not positively known, though there are parties who say they saw Buck Toner strike the man before he fell. The man who was struck was Harry Evans, aged about forty, who filled the place of lecturer in the sideshow, which was owned by a man named De Arly. Buck Toner, the man who is said to have done the wounding, is one of the principal performers in the circus. As soon as Harry Evans fell he was picked up and carried into the barroom, where it was found that his skull was badly fractured. Some one went into the sleeping car and awoke his wife, who, hastily snatching up some clothing, went to the side of her husband, while all the circus and sideshow men boarded the train for Christiansburg, many of them thinking he would follow in the morning. Physicians were sent for, and as soon as they arrived they saw that they had a desperately bad case, as there was a clean cut three inches long on the right side of the head above the temple, and a portion of the scull [sic] was so badly crushed that it was pressing on the brain, which had caused paralysis of the whole left side. About 10(?) A.M. Dr. Baird, assisted by Drs. Wiley and Dilliard(?), performed the operation of trepanning, and removed two pieces of scull [sic], . . . The Commonwealth Attorney, Ballard, telegraphed Judge Junkins, of Christianburg, to have Toner arrested, but could get no reply, so Sheriff Zirkle started for Christiansburg with a warrant for Buck Toner, charging him with felonious wounding. It is thought that Mr. Evans will die. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
1891: Atlanta, Georgia. C. G. 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 . . . 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: [Ad] $500.00 reward for arrest and conviction of Buck Toner, gymnast, last two seasons with Rentz's Circus, for murder of Harry Evans on morning of Sept. __, at Salem, Virginia. Zack Evans, care of ___, Lakeside Building, Room 41, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 565.
1891: B. L. Bouman(?) and wife, and Prof. W. Young, have closed a successsful season with the Washburn & Arlington's Circus, and have joined the Rentz Circus for the winter season through the South. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 569.
1891: Ed. Colvin, the well known circus manager, has entered the dramatic field. His is managing Kirk Armstrong, in "Pete Peterson." He has got out special paper, and intends pushing his star to the front. H. A. Brown is business manager. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 584.
1891: On the road, circuses: Rentz, . . . Columbian Ala. 6 . . . Americus GA 9, Montezuma 11, Milledgeville 13, Sparta 14. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 589.
1891: The Rentz Circus is doing a fine business, and will make a long season. Five billposters from the Forepaugh Show recently joined advertising car No. 1, with this show. New York Clipper, November 14, 1891, p. 609.
1891: On the road, circuses: Rentz, Roanoke, Ala. Nov 18, Lafayette 19 . . . Alexandria 21. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 621.
1891: Roster of sideshow with Rentz & Co.'s R. R. Show: B. L. Bowman, manager and orator; Mrs. B. L. Bowman (snake charmer with twelve large snakes), Nena Delmato (mind reader), Agnes May (mermaid illusion), Prof. W. Young (illusionist, magician and Punch and Judy), Joe Wilber(?) (Kentucky giant boy), Yellowstone Vic (fire king), Charley Scott (Mo?ry chief), Little Bear (Indian chief), J. J. Hunter, assistant door talker and lecturer . . . New York Clipper, December 12, 1891, p. 664.
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: [Deaths] Anthony ("Buck") Toner, a well known performer with Rentz & Co.'s Circus, fell from a swinging perch at ___, O., Aug. 11, and received injuries from which he died at Erie, Pa., Aug. 13(?). He was born at Union City, Pa., March 29(?), 18__, and adopted the circus profession when quite young. He had traveled with Black Bros.', John Robinson's, French's, Mile Orton and Geo. W. Hall's Shows. He visited Cuba with the last named circus, and when he joined Rentz & Co.'s some three years ago he associated himself, as partner, with Bernan? Dooley. The remains were embalmed and taken to C??? City for interment. The funeral was largely attended and the floral tributes were numberous and elaborate. New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 417.
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W. B. Reynold's - 1892-94
1891: Wanted, circus property for cash. I want a good circus outfit, in good condition, consisting of tents, seats, band wagon, ticket, property, light, pole, canvas . . . Chariots, six or more, cages, and all ___ for complete outfit. Write quick to W. B. Reynolds, Cor. Church and Elm Streets, Rockford, Ill. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 427.
1892: Wanted, for W. B. Reynolds' World's Greatest Wagon Show, Circus, Museum and Menagerie, for season of 1892. People in all branches of circus business. Riders, gymnasts, acrobats, aerial artists, brother acts, singing and talking clowns, horizontal bar teams, contortionist, special novelty acts. First class lady artists, troupes of performing horses, ponies and dogs; also __ first class bill posters and lithographers, canvas men, grooms, chandelier men, property men, four, six and eight horse drivers. Wanted, for concert and sideshow, all kinds of living curiosities. Also want a few more first class animals, also five or six camels. Will buy or rent two more elephants. W. B. Reynolds, sole owner and manager. D. F. Fitzgerald, assistant manager. Business office __ Elm Street, Rockford, Ill. Billposters and lithographers address Robt. S. Dingess, __ Prairie Avenue, Chicago, Ill.; drivers and grooms address Dick Thompson, Petersburg, Ill.; canvasmen and chandelier men address W. M. Rhodes, Hennepin, Ill. New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 774.
1892: Wanted, for W. B. Reynold's Consolidated Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition, people in the following branches of circus business: double or triple bar teams, that do comics, tumble and leap, juggler that does fire king, lady for outside ascension and iron jaw in big show; singing and talking clown that works in concert; barrel, globe and cross(?) juggler, ceiling walker or human fly, people that work in concert preferred. Address W. B. Reynolds, 424 Elm Street, Rockford, Ill. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 838.
1892: Chas. McMahon has signed with W. B. Reynolds' Shows. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
1892: The roster of W. B. Reynolds' Consolidated Shows for the coming season is: W. B. Reynolds, sole owner and manager; D. J. Fitzgerald, assistant manager; R. S. Dingess, general agent; W. A. Taylor, contracting agent; Wm. Burton, treasurer; Edward Shipp, equestrian director; Julia Lowanda, Bob Purvis, George Whitby and wife, Spalding and wife, three Martinete [sic?] Bros., J. Carrier, Eddie Cunningham, Howard and Yount, Miles Berry, Prof. Repas and band, Dick Thompson, John Govern, Fred Scanlin, J. H. King, Harry and Ella Potter, Louise Allen . . . Carrie Fitzgerald, La Moyne Bros., Sig. Martino, Dan Randall, J. V. Fay . . . Willie Roberts, William Rhodes, Peter Johnson, Louis Morris and John Lee. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
1892: Notes from W. B. Reynold's Consolidated Shows. Everything is on the move around the winter quarters of W. B. Reynold's Consolidated Shows. Paint has been flowing freely, and everything is glittering with gold leaf, and the show [is] about ready to open at Rockford, Ill., May 7. The outfit consists of eighteen transportation wagons, twelve cages, two tableau cars, two band wagons, three advance wagons, four passenger wagons and several buggies, two elephants, three camels, the wonderful $___ performing moose, one hundred and fifty-four head of horses and eight beautiful Shetland ponies. Among the horses are ninety-eight head of dappled gray. The horses are all fine, and the best lot ever seen with a wagon show. Chas. McMahon, the equestrian, is working the ring stock daily, and breaking four splendid dappled grays for the four horse act; also a pair of snow white horses for principal and finish. Master Freddie is working his troupe of Shetlands. The people are arriving daily, and are kept busy in their several departments. The big top is one hundred and twenty foot, with fifty foot middle piece. Menagerie is seventy foot top, with three thirties. The museum sixty foot, with thirty feet middle. Four horse tents and cook tent. The wardrobe is first class in every particular. In fact, everything is bright and new - and shines for all. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
1892: Annie Carroll, George Winfred . . . are recent engagements for W. B. Reynolds' Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
1892: Call. People engaged for W. B. Reynolds' Consolidated Shows, report no later than May 5. Show opens the seventh. W. B. Reynolds, 424 Elm Street, Rockford, Ill. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 94.
1892: W. B. Reynolds' Consolidated Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition is the title of a new show recently organized at Rockford, Ill. Executive staff: W. B. Reynolds, sole owner and manager; D. J. Fitzgerald, assistant manager; Ford(?) Rowe, treasurer; R. S. Dingess, general agent; Harry Mann, contracting agent; H. C. Burgess, press agent. There will be three brigades ahead of the show; they will be equipped with a novel and original advertising device, each one different from the other. The wagons are paneled with French mirros and ornamented with gold and silver leaf. Wm. Clark will have charge of brigade No. 1, with eight bill posters, one lithographer, and one programmer. Chas. Miller will have charge of brigade No. 2, with six bill posters. Harry Brown will have charge of brigade No. 3, with five assistants. . . . The menagerie will consist of twelve cages of animals, two elephants, three camels, and a performing moose. . . . The following have been engaged: Chas. McMahon . . . Annie Carroll, La Moyne Brothers, Geo. Whitby, Eddie Cunningham . . . Harry and Ella Potter, Master Freddie with his troupe of performing ponies . . . Geo. Winfred, Chas. T. Orrville, Chas. McMahon, equestrian director, with have charge of the dressing room and circls. Prof. Repasz, musical director, with a band of eighteen pieces. Concert people: Mack and Mack, Carrie Fitzgerald, Ron(?) Purvis, Louise Allen, Dan(?) Randall . . . Gertie Whitby, Ed Cunningham. Side show people: Miles Berry . . . Tat Ta Wask, and a colored quartet of jubilee singers. Wm. Rhodes, superintendent of canvas; Chas. Rhodes, assistatn, with twenty canvasmen; Fred Fairfield, superintendent of lights with two assistants; Geo. Williams, superintendent of properties, with five assistants; Pete Johnson, superintendent of the night watch, with two assistants; Dick Thompson, superintendent of stock; Ralph Hawley, assistant, with two eight horse, six six horse and fourteen four horse drivers and eight ordinaries. There will be one hundred and fifty head of stock, of which ninety-eight are matched dappled grays, eighteen head of ring stock and eight Shetland ponies. King and Lee also have the privileges. The show will open early in May at Rockford, Ill. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 98.
1892: W. B. Reynolds' Circus began operations at Rockford, Ill., May 7 to packed tents. The roster includes . . . W. M. Batchellor . . . Eddie Cunningham, Anna Carroll, Sig. Carlos, Chas. MacMahon, the La Moyne Bros., and others. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 163.
1892: The Three Martinnetti Bros. are with W. B. Reynolds' Circus, and not with T. K. Burk's Show, as has been announced. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
1892: On the road, circuses: W. B. Reynold's, Paw Paw IL May 18, Sandwich 19 . . . Harvard, 28. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 167.
1892: Wanted, concert and sideshow people for W. B. Reynolds' Shows, a team that can do ___ song and dance, also some curiosity or act strong enough to feature in the sideshow. Address as per route. W. B. Reynolds. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 175.
1892: On the road, circuses: W. B. Reynold's, Marengo IL May 25, Woodstock 26 . . . New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
1892: On the road, circuses: W. B. Reynold's, Prescott WI July 14, Cannon Falls MN 17, Northfield 19. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
1892: W. B. Reynolds' Shows. Wanted, stock, flat and sleeping cars, performers in every branch of the circus business, sideshow people and billposters. Show going on rail for long season. W. B. Reynolds, Minneapolis, Minn. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 303.
1892: The Martinetti Brothers close their season with W. B. Reynolds' Circus July 23. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
1892: The La Moyne Bros. are still with W. B. Reynolds' Circus. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 340.
1892: Mrs. D.(?) J. Fitzgerald, of W. B. Reynolds' Show, was presented by the members of the show with a gold watch and chain, and a gold ring, recently. It was a birthday event. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 356.
1892: Notes and doings with the W. B. Reynolds Shows. We opened our tenting season at Rockford, Ill., May 7. Since then we have been traveling through Northern Illinois, the entire state of Wisconsin and Southeastern Minnesota. We travel by wagons, and have 150 head of fine stock to transport the show overland. Our canvas consists of 100ft. roung top, with one 50ft. middle piece for big top. Menagerie, __ft. round top, with three 30ft. middle pieces. Dressing room 60(?)ft. round top, with one 30ft. middle piece. Sideshow 60ft. round top with one 40ft. middle piece. Also four large horse tents and one cook tent. We have a ten cage menagerie, with one elephant and two camels, and carry two tableaux wagons. Charles McMahon is riding a bounding jockey and four horse act, Harry and Ella Potter, aerialists are making the hit of the show. They are also doing a double ascentions to the dome of the canvas. La Moyne Bros., light(?) bar experts, always get a big hand, as do Chas. Orville, equilibrist, and Eddie Cunningham, contortionist. Geo. Whitby is doing double somersaults over elephants, camels and horses, and Master Freddie's pony hurdle is hurrah, whoop la, from start to finish. Geo. Winfred, clown, is making everybody laugh. Mr. Reynolds congratulates himself for having as fine a one ring show as anybody, while Gabe Boone's band of twelve pieces make everybody take their hats off to him. July 23 being Mrs. D. J. Fitzgerald's birthday, the company presented her with a fine gold watch and chain and diamond ring. At Minneapolis Aug. 6, Mrs. Ella Potter was presented with an elegant gold necklace set with diamonds, a diamond brooch, and solid gold bracelet set with diamonds and rubies. Mr. and Mrs. Potter banqueted the entire company on Sunday, Aug. 7, at the St. Charles Hotel. Everybody around the show is happy, and the "man in white" makes his visits regularly once a week. We opened at Minneapolis Aug. 4, at the Baseball Park, in the very heart of the city. We show three districts at Minneapolis and then open at St. Paul. Ours is the first show to visit the twin cities this season, and business is big both afternoon and night. This show can be counted as one of the lucky ones this season, and Mr. Reynolds has proven himself to be a good manager and has won the good will and respect of all. Geo. Whitby and Orville have also had birthdays, and were not forgotten. Ed. Holland and Mr. Reynold's brother visited July 23. Martinetti Bros. closed, going to New York. Clyde Phillips and Mlle. Nanon joined. Anna Carroll is on the sick list, but is improving fast, and will soon be again in the ring. She has been doing some fine riding. Charles McMahon's wonderful four horse act closes the show. Charles Orville, the post man, furnishes the show each week with twenty-five Clippers. His barrel and table act is first class. The "white elephant" calls upon the members every Thursday, and all are happy. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 372.
1892: Eddie Cunningham, contortionist, now with W. B. Reynolds' Circus, will hereafter be known as Royetto. New York Clipper, September 24, 1892, p. 456.
1892: Miles Berry, general agent of the W. B. Reynolds Shows, is taking a vacation, and is visiting his relatives at Constantine, Mich. New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 538.
1892: [Ad] At liberty, Miles Berry, agent and manager, circus or theatrical. Ten years' experience. Just closed as general agent W. B. Reynolds Circus. Address Box __, Constantine, Mich. New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 548.
1892: A lion belonging to W. B. Reynolds' Circus, which is in winter quarters at Rockford, Ill., escaped from his cage last week, and a fierce battle between the beast and the attendants ensued. The lion first attacked and killed a valuable midget pony, then seriously lacerated a kangaroo and tore the monkeys' cage to pieces, injuring several of the animals. Bob Reynolds and James McGillas, the keeper, pluckily succeeded in lassoing and hold the infuriated beast until he could be chained to the floor. New York Clipper, December 3, 1892, p. 624.
1892: Circus outfit for sale. On account of going by rail next season I offer my entire wagon show outfit for sale. New last season. . . . stakes, ropes, poles. 26 lengths blue seats, ? lengths reserve seats, back and foot rest, 2 advance wagons, one carved, 2 passenger hacks, 1 tableaux and wardrobe combined. 1 tickte wagon, 1 large property wagon, 1 small cage, 1 pole wagon, 1 side pole and canvas wagon, 1 canvas wagon, 1 stable wagon, 1 plank wagon, 1 jack wagon, 1 stringer wagon, 1 cook wagon, 1 stake and chain wagon, 2 property wagons. Will be sold togehter or separate at a bargain if taken soon. I also want to buy or rent a few more cars and railroad show property. W. B. Reynolds' Consolidated Shows, Circus, Museum and Menagerie, Rockford, Ill., ___ Elm Street. New York Clipper, December 3, 1892, p. 630.
1893: Reynold's Great Railroad Shows, Circus, Menagerie and Hippodrome. Wanted for traveling season 1893 people in all branches of circus and hippodrome business. Riders, gymnasts, acrobats, aerialists, singing and talking clowns and any special feature and attraction for circus or hippodrome. Waned for side show and concert all kinds of living curiosities (send photos), male and female artists of a novel character, musicians, bagpipers and caliope [sic] player. Circus, hippodrome, side show, concert people etc. and master of transportation address W. B. Reynolds, 414(?) Elm Street, Rockford, Ill. Billposters and lithographers address ?. C. Blake, Rockford, Ill. . . . Canvas men, chandelier men, property men, and ast. boss canvas men address Wm. Rhodes, Rockford, Ill. . . . I also have a complete wagon show outfit for sale cheap, new last Spring. New York Clipper, January 14, 1893, p. 729.
1893: Wm. Elkin, talking clown, and his wife, Georgie Elkin, chariot driver, have signed with the W. B. Reynolds Show. New York Clipper, February 4, 1893, p. 766.
1893: Durand and Rogan and wife have signed with Reynolds' Circus. New York Clipper, February 18, 1893, p. 800.
1893: Notes from the O'Dell show. Things begin to look like the Spring opening. The painters are busy getting the cage and tableaux and wagons ready for the road. C. W. O'Dell is getting the ring stock and trick horses and ponies ready for the opening. He promises to bring out something new in the equestrian line, in the shape of a black bear, riding and jumping objects. Mr. O'Dell has ??? broken a pair of elk, which will be used in the hippodrome, driven to sulkies. Madame Ella Potter(?) is daily practicing her two new horses, Pearl and Fannie. Harry Potter is breaking a new hurdle horse for the coming season. Mr. Reynolds is at present in Kentucky buying thoroughbred stock to be used in the hippodrome. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 821.
1893: The notes appearing to come form "C. W. O'Dell's Show" in last week's Clipper should have been credited to W. B. Reynolds' Show. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
1893: The Three Melrose Bros., acrobats, have signed with the Reynolds' Show. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
1893: The Odell Bros., contortionists, and Mrs. May Odell have signed with the W. B. Reynold's Shows. New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.
1893: Notes from Reynold's Great Railroad Shows. The shows spent Sunday, May 21(?), at Jefferson, Ia., and paid a tribute to a departed comrade, as it is well known that "Yankee" Robinson [is] buried there. No man stood higher in his chosen profession, than he for whom this mark of respect was paid. He was a man of wonderful ___ and originality and was regarded with great esteme by his fellow brethren in the profession. The procession started from in front of the Hotel Head, headed by Mr. Reynolds, followed by Prof. ___'s Columbian band playing a dirge composed expressly for the occasion by Prof. Boone(?). The executive staff and performers, together with some fifty or more carriages containing citizens, brought up the rear. At the cemetery brief services were held, consisting of a prayer and a few appropriate remarks by the Rev. John McKee(?). The Columbian band then rendered "Nearer My God to Thee," while many a tear glistened on the faces of the ___ friends. As each one filed past the grave they deposited a floral offering upon the same, among which was a beautiful wreath, a gift of Mr. Reynolds. The large elephants, Queen, Jumbo and Baldy(?), are features with the shows. We have been doing a splendid business through Illinois and Iowa, and are now in Nebraska. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
1893: Wanted, boss hostler, boss property man, Address Coal City, Ill. 17. Reynold's Great Railroad Shows. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 306.
1893: The Livingstone Family have left the Sells & Rentfrow Circus, and are now with W. B. Reynolds' Circus. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
1893: Ed. C. Murphy joined W. B. Reynolds' Shows at Blanchester, O., Aug. 9. New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 412.
1893: Paducah, Kentucky. W. B. Reynold's Circus will show here Aug. 30. Mr. Reynolds has been trying to bring his circus here for nearly a month but thought the city license too high. The city license is $___ per day. Mr. Reynolds intended to show outside the city limits, and had the ground picked out for that purpose, but last week his agent went before the City Council and asked for a reduction, which was granted, the license being reduced to $50(?). New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 413.
1893: Roster of car No. 1 of W. B. Reynold's Circus. L. C. Blake, manager . . . William Saunders, William Bullock, Charley Reid . . . Harry Weiman, Robert Eldridge, Edward Warren, Sam Ack and L. C. Blake Jr. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 447.
1893: . . . W. B. Reynolds Show . . . The band, numbering sixteen musicians, is now under the leadership of Prof. Frank G. Heald. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 463.
1893: Memphis, Tennessee. Reynold's Circus comes Oct. 23 for two performances. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 544.
1893: Roster of W. B. Reynolds' Circus band. Prof. Frank G. Heald, Fletcher Mason, Earl C. May, A. M. Masser, Emil Miller, W. H. Holmes, Otto Miller, Walter Smith . . . C. W. Cleveland . . . O. Barber, Harry Fordyce, A. W. Herrick . . . W. A. Cleveland and Adolph Snyder. Sideshow band: Prof. A. E. Patterson, B. W. Patterson . . . Charles Stanley, John Hyle, Dock Dickson . . . and M. J. Cowan. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 545.
1893: On the road, circuses: Reynolds', . . . Lebanon TN Nov 3 . . . Carthage 6, Callatin 7, Bowling Green KY 8. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 559.
1893: Louisville, Kentucky. W. B. Reynold's, a circus proprietor, en route to Cincinnati with his circus to go into winter quarters, arrived here 2?. A bail writ was served on Mr. Reynolds by the attorneys of L. G. ___, a liveryman at Gadsdee, Ala., for a bill of $150(?), alleged to be due for feed furnished the circus. New York Clipper, December 2, 1893, p. 624.
1893: Gadsden, Ala., November 22. Fully 3,000 people were in Gasden today to attend Reynold's circus, but were disappointed as the circus was stranded in Chattanooga Tuesday, and the proprietors skipped, leaving the circus with the employes. Atlanta Consitution (Atlanta, GA), Thursday, November 23, 1893, p. 2.
1894: Wanted, for Reynolds' World United Shows, Circus, Menagerie and Royal Roman Hippodrome. People in all branches circus and hippodrome business. Side show people, freaks and curiosities address G. W. Fursman(?), Pleasant Valley, Dutchess Co., N.Y.; Canvas men, seat men, train men and property men address E. D. Barnum, ___ House, Rockford, Ill. Grooms, jockeys, 4, 6, and 8 horse drivers address Dick Thompson, ___ South Church Street, Rockford, Ill. Chandelier men address Jas. McGillas, __ Rockton Avenue, Rockford, Ill. Animal man address Harry Petts, Rockford, Ill. Performers, musicians, wardrobe women and men and all others address W. B. Reynolds, manager, ___ Elm Street, Rockford, Ill. Also wanted an additional number of knockabout clowns. Want to buy sleeping car(?). New York Clipper, February 10, 1894, p. 793.
1894: Wanted, free exhibition attraction, for the Reynolds Circus and Menagerie. Sideshow features, musicians, concert people. Those who double in band given preference. Candy stand men, boss sideshow canvas man. Address Geo. W. Fursman . . . Pleasant Valley, N.Y. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 808.
1894: Royetto, contortionist, has signed with W. B. Reynolds' World's United Shows. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
1894: The three Cleveland Brothers, musicians, including Earl O.(D.?) Cleveland, euphonium soloist, have signed with Reynolds' World United Shows, making their third season with that organization. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
1894: Clay Lambert has re-engaged as contracting agent with W. B. Reynolds' Circus and Menagerie for the coming season. . . . New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
1894: Hunt, the juggler, has signed with the W. B. Reynold's Shows. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
1894: All performers engaged for Reynold's Worlds United Shows, report at Rockford, Ill., by May 2, musicians, April 30. Show opens May 5. . . . W. B. Reynolds, general manager, Rockford, Ill. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 112.
1895: For Sale Reynold's Circus, Menagerie and Hippodrome. The entire outfit, consisting of band wagons, ticket wagon, cages, tableau chariots, baggage wagons, cars, animals, horses, harness, trappings, wardrobe, lights, tents, poles and all properties complete. Animals include the two largest and best performing elephants in American, also the lot of ring stock, then in number, will be sold in a bunch or separate. G. W. Reynolds, sole owner, Rockford, Ill. New York Clipper, November 2, 1895, p. 559.
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Royal & Adams Indoor Circus - 1911
Perhaps the most remarkable troupe that ever traveled with a circus is the Nelson family, with the Royal & Adams Indoor circus which comes to the city auditorium next month under the auspices of the Shriners. Cedar Rapids Evening Gazetter (Cedar Rapids, IA), January 26, 1911, p. 7. Parkinson: Royal & Adams Indoor Circus, 1911, Rhoda Royal, proprietor. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Rhoda Royal Shows - 1900
In Renovo, Pa., they recently gave exceptionally creditable performances. . . . Madam Royal in the delightful menage act; Prof. Joe Berris in his unexcelled equine paradox; the marvelous Eddys; the Petits, in their thrilling triple bar work in mid-air; the Johnson Brothers, were all special features. The finale to the circus programme was the wonderful exhibition of horsemanship by the body of Rough Riders, under command of Capt. Sharp. . . . The financial end of the show is taken care of by that king of treasuers, "Tony" Richardson. Billboard, July 7, 1900, 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.
Dan Rice's - 1881
Wm. H. Stowe, Dan Rice and J. C. Oates have formed a partnership for the purpose of conducting a circus business. A New Orleans, La., correspondent, writing on Jan. 26, says: "They are now organizing under the name of 'Dan Rice's New Greatest and Best of all Great Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Cosmopolitian Allied Exhibition.' The show will travel by special railway trains. Dan Rice will reappear as clown for the first time in several years. Miss Lizzie Marcellus, a beautiful brunette, will be chief equestrian. Wm. H. Stowe leaves 27 for New York City, and while there will purchase tents, animals, etc., and engage performers and specialists. They have warerooms [sic?] and stables on Rampart street, and have a force of painters and workmen overhauling the paraphernalia of the late Thornton Circus. J. C. Oates is in Memphis negotiating for the purchase of Stickney's Circus and when the organization is complete the show will be first-class in every particular. Their first performance will be given here Feb. 20. New York Clipper, February 5, 1881.
Dan Rice's new show will be officered as follows: Dan Rice, general manager; B. F. Tatum, treasurer; Major G. W. Morris, general and rail road agent; Wm. Stowe, equestrian manager; Chem Davis, contracting and press agent. They have just purchased the De Haven Circus at Aberdeen, Miss. The De Haven Circus was organized by De Haven in Chicago, Ill. about two years ago, a Mr. Dutton furnishing the money and De Haven the brains. Their failure was caused by weather. New York Clipper, February 26, 1881.
While Miss Lizzie Marcellus was giving her equestrian act in Dan Rice's Circus in New Orleans, La., the night of March 11, the bale-ring of the circus tent broke, precipitating the canvas almost to the ground, taking with it, says our correspondent, "the tank containing thirty gallons of gasoline, which supplies the ring chandeliers. The tank broke, the oil ignited, and flames spread over the greater part of the ring, causing a panic among the audience. Marcellus, although thrown with great force from her hose and carried out of the ring, returned, and while her horse (Selim) was frantic with rage, and all others dared not approach him, she did so, and succeeded in rescuing the animal from the flames. Wm. H. Stowe quited the audience, and with employes of teh show succeeded in smothering the flames. The result might have been disastrous had not the canvas been so thoroughly saturated by the late heavy rains. They pulled stakes night of 12, and left same night by Morgan's Railroad for the lower Red River country." New York Clipper, March 26, 1881. Information should be checked with additional sources
J. H. Rice's - 1892
1892: On the road, circuses: Rice's Great American Mt. Carroll IL April 30, Fulton May 2, Mt. Sterling 3, Dixon 4, Princeton 5, La Salle 6, Ottawa 7. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 119.
1892: On the road, circuses: Rice's Great American, . . . La Salle IL May 6, Ottawa 7, Moris 9 . . . Streator 11, Pontiac 12, Bloomington 13, Delevan 14. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
1892: On the road, circuses: Rice's, Streator IL May 11, Pontiac 12, Bloomington 13, Delavan 14, Pekin 16, Canton 17, Bushnell 18, Galesburg 19, Monmouth 20, McComb 21. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
1892: On the road, circuses: Rice's, Bushnell IL May 18, Galesburg 19, Monmouth 20, McComb 21 . . . Clinton 26, Champaign 27, Tuscola 28. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 167.
1892: On the road, circuses: Rice's, Lincoln IL May 25, Clinton 26, Champaign 27 . . . Paris 30, Marshall 31, Mattoon June 1, Shelbyville 2, Pana 3 . . . New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
1892: On the road, circuses: Rice's, Mattoon IL June 1, Shelbyville 2, Pana 3, Taylorville 4, Litchfield 6, Carlinsville 7, Alton 8, Edwardsville 9, Jerseyville 10, Whitehall 11. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
1892: . . . Emma Myers, Harry French, D. J. Harper, Lotta Vere, the Forbes Bros., the Normandie Sisters and the Three Renos are doing immensely with Rice Bros.' Show. Evenly good business is the report from the management. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
1892: On the road, circuses: Rice's, Alton IL June 8, Edwardsville 9, Jerseyville 10, Whitehall 11, Jacksonville 13, Pittsfield 14, Mt. Sterling 15, Rushville 16, Vermont 17, Lewiston 18. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
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Rice & Davis Big United Shows - 1900
Rice & Davis Big United Shows and Elton Bros.' Show took in Tarre, Pennsylvania, the same day. Both shows did a good business. Rice & Davis' show is heading to Ohio. J. A. Jones, its manager, is a hustler, consequently a good season should follow. Billboard, June 16, 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.
Rich & Downie's - 1890
Wanted for Rich & Downie's United Shows, the finest equipped wagon show on the road, circus performers in all branches (those doing two or more turns preferred). Concert people, two bands . . . good ___ agent, who thoroughly understands his business and not afraid to work; boss canvas and chandelier man. . . . Sideshow and candy stands to let. Show opens in Greenville, Mich., in May. Address Andrew Downie, week of Feb. ?, Westminster, Mass., Providence, R. I. . . . week for Feb. 17(?), Keith's Bijou, Boston, Mass. Permanent address, Box 37, Greenville, Mich. Wanted to buy for cash. A good second hand horse tent. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 799.
The following people have signed with Rich & Downie United Shows: . . . Ed. Carr . . . J.(?) Hopper's dog and cat circus. D.(?) S.(?) Ward will have charge of the advance, and F. E. Smith will lead the band. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 861.
Andrew Downie and wife, and Lee Melville arrived at Greenville, Mich., March __, and are now busy preparing for the opening of Rich & Downie's United Shows. Painters and carpenters are now at work getting things in good order for opening about May 5(?). The show will carry forty-five people, all told, and a new outfit. . . . Sixty head of horses and twenty wagons, with two advance wagons, will carry the show. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 75.
Call. All parties engaged for season of 1890 with Rich & Downie's United Shows, report at Greenville, Mich., May ?. Show opens May 30(?). Andrew Downie, Greenville, Mich. Candy privilege for sale. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 111.
The following is the roster of Rich & Downie's United Wagon Show: Rich and Downie, proprietors; F. Rich, treasurer; Andrew Downie, manager . . . Prof. John White's troupe of educated horses, dogs, goats and monkeys . . . Ralph Anderson; Thomas Mark and Prof. F. E. Smith's silver cornet band. The show opens at Greenville, Mich. . . . New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
The Rich & Downie United Shows have had very bad weather, but they are reported to be doing a good business. They had a cyclone at Dowagiac, Mich. Everything blew down, but no one was hurt. The canvas was cut badly to get the people out. The have added five(?) new teams since they started out, making twenty-five wagons in all. The company is first class and giving a good show. The roster: Downie and Melville; Ed. Carr and Lulu Eiler(?); Prof. White and his trained dogs, monkeys, horsess and mules; the Franklin Brothers; Holman and Wilson(?); Mrs. Downie and Gus Warren. The show reports big business. They opened at Greenville, Mich., May __. The sideshow is run by Rich and Downie. Mme. Naomi is the principal feature. Prof. Gus Warren does lecturing and magic in the sideshow, and Doc Cownie manipulates his talking figures. Charles Baker, with his educated pig, is no small part of the sideshow. New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 197.
Wanted for Rich & Bowman's United Wagon Shows. Good singing and talking clown who can work in concert. . . . Andrew Downie . . . Sideshow privileges to let cheap. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 224.
Notes from the Rich & Downie United Shows. Gus Warren and wife left the show at Fairbury(?),and Jerry Campbell joined to fill the former's place for two weeks. Business through Illinois continues good, but on account of the bad roads and weather quite a number of afternoon performances have been missed. Ralph Rich has purchased the interest of his brother, Frank B. Rich, in the show. Le Melville has left the company and Ed. Carr has replaced him, doing the catching for Andrew Downie in their new trapeze act. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 294.
Wanted, for Rich & Downie's United Railroad Shows, a good ??? partner to do the catching for Flying ___ trapeze act. Have rigging and all apparatus complete. Must do some good single turn, and be a good dresser. One who understands the rigging can ___ at once. Also a good singing and talking clown who can work in concert, a contortionist doing two turns, and a candy butcher to work on percentage(?). Address Andrew Downie, South Bend, Ind., July 17, 18, 19, Elkhorn, Ind. July 21, 22, 23. . . . New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 300.
Wanted to rent, two circus flat cars, also combination dining and sleeping car. . . . We play three day and week stands. . . . also want six length of folding reserve seats. Andrew Downie. New York Clipper, July 26, 1890, p. 317.
Rich and Downie report continued good business through Indiana with their railroad show. . . . New York Clipper, August 2, 1890, p. 323.
Notes from Rich & Downie's Show. Aug. 14(?) being Andrew Downie's (the manager) birthday, he was presented with a beautiful pen(?) by Mrs. Downie, and an elegant ___ cane by the company. Business has been big for the last two months, and the ghost walks regularly. E.(?) S.(?) Ward, the agent, always has plenty of Clippers at every city. . . . New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
Andrew Downie has purchased the interest of Ralph Rich in the Rich & Downie United Shows, and is now sole owner and manager of the same. The show remained at Grand Rapids, Mich., two weeks to excellent business. The ghost meanders with due regularity, and everyone is well and happy. The show closes its season Oct. 10(?), at Greenville, Mich. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 420.
Andrew Downie is now sole proprietor of Rich & Downie's Shows. Their season closed at Greenville, Mich., Oct. 11. Nearly all of the performers and musicians have been re-engaged for next season. The show will be greatly enlarged, and will travel by rail. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 533.
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Rich & Mettie - 1891, G. E. Rich's - 1891-92
1891: Wanted, for next season, commencing March 15, 1891, with canvas(?), a band of seven, 4 to double in orchestra, 3 to do two turns in ring. I want four good trick ponies, must be cheap. Address Prof. G. E. Rich, Mechanicstown, Md. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 815.
1891: Wanted. I want some good concert people that can play in band. I only give one show a day, in the evening. I work my horse business in the afternoon. I have my own cars, band(?), and pay all expenses, and want people that appreciate good living, and are willing to work at a fair price and get it. Also want a small tent for dining room, 8 lengths of seats, ___ folding chairs, ? more trick ponies, and a good somersault dog. I will take a good man as partner, for a small sum, if a good one. I travel the year round. Address Prof. G. E. Rich, Mechanicstown, Md. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 15.
1891: Wanted, for Rich's Horseshow Circus. I want a good boss canvasman, good man for clown, and would like to hear from a good bar team doing two or three turns. Haven't closed in five years; only stop a few weeks to enlarge. I travel in my own cars, board and sleep all people in my cars. Will take a good manager with $900 and give him one half interest in my show. Side show and concert privileges to let to responsible parties; also want good agent and three billposters. Prof. G. E. Rich, Mechanicstown, Md. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 51.
1891: Notes of Rich & Mettie's Circus and Trained Animal Exhibition. All is bustle and hustle around the winter quarters at Mechanicstown, Md. Prof. Rich is hard at work getting everything in ship-shape. In addition to his two palace cars, he is fitting up two more for horses, ponies, etc. He is also getting his troupe of trained dogs and goats in first class working order. The trained horses and ponies now do some clever ticks. Several men have been kept busy making seats, and now there are enough for two thousand people. The new 100ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, is expected daily. . . . The show will carry a uniformed band of eight pieces and twenty first class performers. J. M. Rich, brother of Prof. Rich, will have charge of the advance, with three assistants. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 74.
1891: Rich & Mettie Big Solid Ring Show and Trained Animal Exhibition. Wanted immediately, performers in all branches of the circus business except riders. Also few more concert people. Address Rich & Mettie, Mechanicstown, Md. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 127.
1891: Rich & Mettie's Show is assuming immense proportions for the coming season. Lew Mettie, a few days ago, returned from winter quarters, and since then he has shipped two more very fine trick stallions and two clever riding goats and dogs. Among the people already engaged are the well known Robert Stickney, who will have charge of the circle; John M. Rich and wife . . . Max Hugo, Franz Family, four in number; Valdare Bros. . . . Chas. H. Alpine, H. Henderson, Theo. Harvey, Sam Green, J. E. Remyar, Frank Carey, Frank Connors and Prof. W. H. Jacobs' uniformed band. The show will travel by rail and will open at Mechanicstown, Md., May 2. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 134.
1891: On the road, circuses: Rich & Mettie's Hanover, Pa., May 13, 14, Spring Grove 15, York 16 . . . New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 171.
1891: Roster of Rich & Metties' Ring Show and Trained Animal Exhibition: Rich & Metties, proprietors; Robert Stickney, equestrian manager; Mettie Family . . . Max Hugo . . . Samuel Dock, Minnie Roberts, Flora Smith, Samuel Greer, Dick Fleming, Andy Johnson, Robert Wilson . . . Prof. H. R. Jacobs, Bert Whitman, Chas Higgins . . . Bill Jackson, Steve Buch and J. M. Richard. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
1891: On the road, circuses: Rich & Mettie's, Harrisburg, Pa, May 27, 30. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
1891: On the road, circuses: Rich & Mettie's, Baltimore MD June _, indefinite. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 219.
1891: On the road, circuses: Rich & Mettie's, Greencastle Pa. June __, Chambersburg, 2?, 26, Shippensburg 27, Newville 29, Carlisle 30-July 1, Mechanicsburg 2, 3. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
1891: On the road, circuses: Rich & Mettie's, Carlisle, Pa. July 1, Mechanicsburg 2, Millersburg 3 . . . Milton 7, Watsontown 8, Moncey(?) 9, Williamsport 10, 11; Reno, Auburn, NY July 2-13. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
1891: On the road, circuses: Rich & Mettie's, Watsonburg, Pa. July 8, Muncer 9, Williamsport 10, 11. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
1891: News from Prof. G. E. Rich's Circus (formerly Rich & Mettie's). A change has taken place the last few days with our show. Prof. Rich has bought out Mr. Mettie's interest in the show, and Mr. Mettie has retired on account of sickness in his family. We travel in our own cars. This is the twelfth week, and we have been doing a profitable business. We carry fifty-three people, and are constantly adding new features. We recently put in a new 40ft. middle piece. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
1891: Wanted at once, good circus people in every branch of the business, except riders. Also two or three good trick horses and trick donkeys, good talking and singing clown and any other novelty acts for big show. Will sell sideshow and privileges to responsible party. Will also sell trained goat, George Washington. Goes lame, rolls basket, waltzes, and the only goat living which does a contortion act. Prof. G. E. Rich Big Ring Show, formerly Rich & Metties. . . . Driftwood, Pa. 24 and __, Emporium 27 and 28, St. Marys __ and 30. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 340.
1891: Turner and Roberts have rejoined Prof. George E. Rich's Show for the balance of this season. They left this city [New York] on July 2?. New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 364.
1891: Notes fro Prof. G. E. Rich's Circus. While at Lock Haven Prof. Loper, with his cornet band of ten people, joined. We also have several other new features, and have enlarged out show, adding curio people. Tunor and Roberts joined us at Lock haven, as did Howard Williams. At Emportium, Aug 3, T. J. Hurd joined us with his World's Museum, and consolidated the two shows in one. Features in the museum: Big Hattie Bowen, fat woman; Col. Picket Nelson, giant; John W. Coffey, skeleton dude; Prof. Bell, tattooed man; Margurete, Circassian snake charmer; Elexandra, fire king; Hurd's Punch and Judy, and Mons. Leona, strong man. Roster of our show: J. M. Rich and Wm. Berry, advance, with six assistants; Prof. Lamont, equestrian manager; Avlas(?) and Gilbert; Tunor and Roberts; Joe Roble(Robie?); O. Donaldson; Frank Cary; George Anderson; Howard M. Williams, clown; Billie Smith, with two Arabian trick stallions; Robert Wilson, with three somersault dogs; Millie Rose, in flying rings; Prof. Rich, with his troupe of performing dogs; Harry Wan, chandeliers; Oscar Adams, boss canvasman, with twelve assistants; Sam Green, property man, with four assistants; Geo. Leidy, property man, with two assistants in No. 2; Robert Brisdorph, boss cook with four assistants. Since organizing and consolidating Aug. 3, we have been doing big business and were obliged to add another car to our train at Emporium. This show is en route for the South. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
1891: On the road, circuses: G. E. Rich's, Kane, Pa. Aug 12, 13, Sheffield 14, 15, Warren 17, 18. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 386.
1891: On the road, circuses: Prof. G. E. Rich's, Portage WI Sep 16, Tyrone PA 17, 18, Huntington 19, __ . . . New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 467.
1891: Prof. G. E. Rich's Circus will close its season Oct. 5(?) at Mechanicstown, Md., after being out twenty-three weeks to uniformly good business. The show will go into winter quarters at Mechanicsville, where the cars and other property will be overhauled and repainted. Prof. Rich is organizing a specialty company, to take the road late in October. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 502.
1891: For sale cheap if sold at once. Two box cars in good condition, __ lenghts seats, chandelier, good as new, 7 small Bookmans, sledges, bars, ropes, pulleys and centre, quarter and side pole stakes. All ready to set up. Address until Nov. 2. Prof. G. E. Rich, Mechanicstown. After that date address G. W. Stockdale, Mechanicstown, Md. Prof. G. E. Rich. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 578.
1892: Prof. J. A. Gildersleeve, with his uniform band and orchestra, has signed with G. E. Rich & Co's Shows. Max Hugo and Val E. Leonzo also go with this show. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 3.
1892: The following people have signed with Prof. Geo. E. Rich & Co.'s Shows: . . . Prof. J. A. Gildersleeve's band and orchestra . . . Turnour and Roberts, M. B. Cook and wife . . . George Lamar, J. Johnson and wife, C. W. Cardello . . . John Davenport . . . Ben Frost, Jack Smith, Prof. Robt. Scott and Mrs. C. W. Cardello. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
1892: Wanted, a few canvasmen, chandelier man, a few side show paintings, a few folding-back reserved seats. We have a combination car for sale cheap. G. E. Rich & Co., Williamsport, Pa. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 47.
1892: Call. People engaged for G. E. Rich & Co.'s Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition. Report __th of April. G. E. Rich & Co.'s, Williamsport, Pa. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 63.
1892: Wanted, lady for outside ascensions, boss canvasman. Will sell, if sold at once, my combination car with parlor, dining room, kitchen and ___'s room, 6 folding beds, _ wardrobes, 2 water tanks, 2 wash sinks, cupboards for dished, windows have curtains . . . large lockers under car. Westinghouse air brakes, steam whistle, steam pipes and newsly painted last Fall, . . . Miller platform with gates over stop . . . and all in fine shape ready to put on a passenger train any day. I am living(?) in ___ car. Reason [selling] going out with wagon show. Adress G. E. Rich & Co., Williamsport, Pa. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 79.
1892: Roster of G. E.Rich & Co.'s Show. Prof. G. E. Rich & Co., proprietors; G. E. Rich, manager; Henry Russell, treasurer; H.(?) G. Alger, general agent with two assistants . . . Prof. W. B. Johnson's uniformed cornet band . . . John Wilson, boss hostler, with six assistants. Among the performers are Max Hugo, principal clown . . . Cousins and Allerton . . . Geo. D. La Mar, four Russian Athletes, Sinclair Bros. . . . Cardello Bros., Mons. Berry, Mlle Cook, Howard and Williams . . . Mlle Amelia, Miller and Weston. They open April __ at Williamsport, Pa., with a brand new outfit and as fine a lot of stock as money can buy. The show travels by wagon, sixty-five horses being used. Also, four six horse wagons, band wagon and six four horse wagons, besides two new carryalls. Two fine new advance wagons will be run. . . . Everything is newly painted. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 82.
1892: Wanted, for Rich & Co.'s Shows. One more contortionist, one bar performer, man or woman for outside ascension, woman preferred; two billposters. Also side show and candy privileges to let. Address G. E. Rich & Co., Williamsport, Pa. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 94.
1892: Wanted, for Geo. E. Rich & Co.'s Big 25 Cent Show. Circus people of all kinds except riders. All people stop at hotels. Show now on the road doing big business. Address per route, Waterville, N.Y. June 4, Morrisville N.Y. June 5(?). New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 206.
1892: On the road, circuses: Rich & Co.'s, Ulysses PA July 7, Coudersport 8, Roulette 9, Port Allegheny 11. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
1892: Wanted at once, for Rich & Co.'s Circus and Trained Animal Exhibition, man with trained ponies. Also troupe of trained dogs, those that do a riding act given preference. Also one or two more lady artists that can do two or more acts in circus. Also lady artists for concert. The man in white walks every week. . . . New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 289.
1892: Prof. G. E. Rich writes to say that he disposed of his interest in the Rich & Hugo Co. four weeks ago, and claims that the show is still using his name without authority from him. He is at Ulysses, Pa. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
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George W. Richards' - 1890
The Richards Combined Shows closed a very successful season of ten(?) months at Lathrop, Mo. The show will winter at Bucklin(?), Mo., and take the road again about April __, much enlarged. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 781.
1890: Wanted, for Richards' Circus, Museum and Menagerie, performers in all branches. Long season. Side show and candy stand for sale to responsible parties only. Address Geo. W. Richards, care of Richard's Circus, Greenville, Miss. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 14.
1890: Wanted for the Richards' Combined Shows, a few more small animals, birds, monkeys, armadillos, snakes, etc. R. Q.(?) Richards, Bucklin(?), Mo. New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 30.
1890: A dispatch from Paducah, Ky., dated April 1, says: "Geo. W. Richards' Circus is reported to be on a sawdust bank at Sholwells(?) Fields, a few miles below Cairo, Ill., without shelter of any kind, and not a spot of dry land within twelve miles. There are six women with the party. The City of St. Paul, their steamer, is sunk, and all of their show fixtures are lost. Aid has been sent them." A later dispatch says: "No additional news has been received from the Richards Circus. At last accounts they were safely on board of a steamer. Their show and boat are wrecked and most of their animals drowned. No lives were lost." New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 75.
1890: The management of the Geo. W. Richards Circus sends the followng account of the recent damage to that show by the recent Mississippi flood: "The steamer City of St. Paul, owned by Geo. W. Richards, and carrying the Richards Circus, was destroyed in the big storm of March 27(?), twenty miles below Hickman(?), Ky. on the Mississippi River. The boat, show and barges were a total loss, as there was not a cent of insurance. But fortunately no lives were lost, though the people suffered terribly. We were cast upon a ___ pile more than a score of miles from land, and with the waters continually on the rise. The people were without food and shelter for three days and nights. The circus had just closed its season at Greenville, Miss., and was on the way to Paducah, Ky., to reorganize for the summer season. The people on the boat included Geo. W. Richards and wife, Capt. Smith and wife, Joseph Parsons and wife, Clarinda Lumpkins, Sam Rinehart, Wm. Wright, Billy McIntyre, old Bob McCormick, Ed. Lanier . . . all of whom lost their entire baggage, personal effects, etc., as the boat sank in less than five mintues. Everything possible under the circumstances was done for the relief and comfort of the people, who have nearly all be re-engaged by manager Richards for his new circus, which is expected to be ready for the road in May." New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 91.
1891: George W. Richards, who for many years ran a show on the Mississippi River, is spending the winter in New Orleans. New York Dramatic News, January 13, 1891, p. 10.
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Richardson Bros. - 1892
Wanted, for Richardson Bros.' Great Double Shows, circus people doing two or more acts, aerial people, bar team, contortionist, concert people. Prefer people that double in brass. Musicians that double in brass and string. Also advance agent. Wagon show. Open April 2?. Address Richardson Bros., Sacramento, Cal. New York Clipper, March 5, 1892, p. 866.
Will Darrell(?), flying ring performer, signed with the Richardson Bros.' Circus, at Sacramento, Cal. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
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Riddell & Atcherson - 1890
Wanted, for season 1890, for Riddell & Atcherson's Big Railroad Shows, performers in all branches, including riders, gymnasts, aerial, swinging and flying acts, ladders, brothers and bar acts, specialties and features of all kinds, freaks, sideshow and concert attractions, bosses, laborers and billposters. Female specialties, novelties and feature acts preferred. Address Riddell & Atcherson, __ North Front Street, Columbus, O. New York Clipper, January 4, 1890, p. 718.
Ollie Maynard has signed with Riddle & Atcherson's Railroad Circus for next season. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 765.
For sale, circus property. One fine band wagon, one ticket wagon, one chandelier, jack, stringer and pole wagon. Three ___ baggage wagons. Also ___ stock cars __ft long; wagon and stock runs, centre poles, seven(?) lengths of seats. All newly painted for the road. Riddell & Atchison, __ North Front Street, Columbus, O. New York Clipper, March 1, 1890, p. 846.
Notice to circus people. All engagements with the Riddell & Atchison R. R. Show are canceled [sic] from this date, Feb. 22, 1890, for this season. Riddell & Atchison. New York Clipper, March 1, 1890, p. 846.
1890: For sale, circus property consisting of one band wagon, ticket wagon, chandelier wagon with tank . . . one pole wagon, stringer wagon, three ___ wagons all in good shape. ___ wagons all fresh painted. Address Riddle & Atcherson, Columbus, O. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 80.
Notes from Fisher & Aiken's Show. . . . Fisher and Aiken purchased seven new wagons at Columbus. They are canvas, pole, stringer and plank wagons, and were built for the Riddle & Atcherson Show, which never took the road. . . . New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 197.
1891: Show wagons for sale. 1 pole wagon __ft. long; 1 stringer wagon 20ft. long; 3(?) box baggage wagons 15(?) ft. long. All in fine shape to put on road except some paint. Will sell cheap. Theo Riddell, 83(?) N. Front St., Columbus, O. New York Clipper, January 31, 1891, p. 750.
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Rigall & Co. - 1893-94
1893: Rigall & Co.'s New Colossal Shows, now in preparation at Grayville, Ill., for next season, will be under the management of James D. Rigall. Burt Bennett has been engaged as general agent, James D. Finch will have charge of reserved seats and concert tickets, G. V.(Y.?) Charles will have a band of fourteen musicians, and Clyde Rigall will be superintendent of candy stands. The show will use a 120ft. striped top and will travel by wagon, using 33(35?) head of stock. The season opens at Grayville in May, with everything new. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 561.
1894: Notes from Rigall & Co.'s New Colossal Shows. Our quarters are a scene of activity, as everybody is busily engaged in preparing for the opening at Grayville, Ill., May 14(?). Burt Bennett will have charge of the advance; Thos. Enlow, press agent; Billy Blankenship, boss bill poster with six assistants; Mark Blair, programmer . . . The show will use an 80ft. round top with a 45(?)ft. middle piece, a 30(?)x60(?)ft. dressing room, two 30(?)x60(?)ft. stable tents, and Prof. Mardell museum(?) annex. We will use twenty-two wagons and fifty-eight head of stock. Our band of 12 pieces, under the direction of Prof. Geo. Tipton, will be a feature. Among the performers engaged are . . . James Butler, slack wire and balancing(?) traps . . . and James D. Finch, talking and singing clown, and his mule(?), Raspberry. Thos. Lee will have charge of canvas, with ten assistants; Curly Hennesy, in charge of stock with fourteen assistants . . . Clyde Rigall, superintendent of candy stands . . . Herr Karl Harris, in charge of Hotel De Rigall, with three assistants. Everything with the show will be brand new. Mrs. Rigall is very busy in finishing up our new wardrobe. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
1894: Call. All people engaged for Rigall & Co.'s New Colossal Shows [unreadable text] Wanted contortionist(?) and troupe of dogs. Jas. D. Rigall, manager, Grayville, Ill. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 127.
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Ringler Family Show - 1894
Notes from the Ringler Family's Shows. Everything is on the hustle around our headquarters. We are going to take the road the first week in April, if possible. We have engaged the Bedell Bros.' brass band and orchestra of ten pieces. They join us the last of this month. We have a long list of leapers, aerial acts and Wyman La Veres'(?) troupe of trained horses and dogs. On-ne-no(?), the Texan wizard, has charge of the side show, and Mont W?kelee(?), our talking and singing clown, has charge of the concert. The Ringler Family Jubilee Singers are the feature of the concert. Tom(?) Redmond, with eight assistants, has charge of the canvas. Our route lays through Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Maryland. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
On the road, circuses: Ringley, Louisville, O. Mar 28, Alliance 29, Salem 30, Lactonia(?) 3? . New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 50.
Roster of the Ringler Family Shows. Add Ringler, proprietor and manager; L. De Alma, treasurer; A. Jackson(?) Ringler, equestrian director; Bedell Bros. brass band and orchestra, ten pieces; Wyman Le Vere and his troupe of trained dogs and horses . . . Jack Ringler, the Ringler Family - Lolla(?), Marie, Lulu . . . Bernardo Brothers, Tom Redmon, master of canvas. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 53.
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Ringling Bros. - 1886, 1900, 1910
1886: Ringling Bros.' Double Shows, Museum, Caravan and Congress of Animals open at Baraboo, Wis., May 15, and travel with wagons and their own stock. The people are: Al. Ringling, W. H. Ringling, Alf. Ringling, Chas. Ringling, John Ringling, Mrs. Al. Ringling, Prof. Rich, Dialo, Hercules, Walt McCafferty, Chas. W. Meyers, Dan Malcolm and Mlle. Loretti, Chas. and Mme. Covelli, Zola Zulanda, Prof. Shafer and Family, P. J. Nichols, Fred Madison, A. A. Rush, W. D. Latham, W. H. Van Cleve, J. S. Whitsell, Frank E. Leadow and the Moeller Bros., German gymnasts. The executive staff consists of Ringling Bros., proprietors and managers; Dick Hunter, general-agent, with a corps of billposters, lithographers, etc.; Frank Dempsey, boss-canvasman; John Hamilton, boss-hostler; and Fred Workman, master of properties. The show is transported by sixty horses, and has six cages and eighteen wagons. New York Clipper.
1900: Wheeling, W. VA. April 19. The parade proved bright and interesting, A new feature introduced by Fred Lamont found fine favor. It might be defined as a "Rube" acrobatic act on a hay wagon. It finishes the parade, and provoked storms of laughter all along the route. Every stitch of the canvas was new, and the show looked beautiful on the lot. It was finely flagged. The big top had four poles up and the menagerie had six. There are thirty-two carges in the menagerie, twenty-three elephants and eleven camels, besides minor led stock. Despite the fact that only two rehersals were had, the performance gave great satisfaction. It was the first time Messrs. Ringling Bros. had ever showed Wheeling. The used the lot on the island. Kerry Meagher is in the wagon. Chas. Andress is claim adjuster. Lou Nichols is side show manager.
Ringling Bros. astonishing jump from Baraboo to Wheeling to open (seven hundred and eighty-five miles) had not sooner been announced than their contracting agents appeared in Jersey City at the very gates of New York. This remarkable manouver was succeeded by another equally surprising when Winstead, Conn. was announced as the next town on the list. Billboard, May 1, 1900>.
1910: The show arrived at Lincoln, Neb., early Sunday morning. It was a long haul and good lot. Monday, business was big in the afternoon, and good at night. Robt. Stickney Jr. and wife were entertained all day Sunday and Monday, and father and son had a very enjoyable time. At Omaha the show arrived early. We had a short haul, good lot and long parade. Afternoon business was big, and night was packed. FLoto Show billed here at 25 cents. Mrs. Sadie Casino is on the sick list, and remained here with relatives to recuperate. Well, we are all together again, our top is aII fixed and everything is going on in regulation Ringling style again.
Carroll, La., was a small one. Afternoon was big and night good. The Puff Club had a meeting, and Joe Casino, Capt. Taylor and M. Fitzgerald were made members, also Edward Wulff and Alexander Patty. The banquet talk is all that can be heard in the dresslng room. The Muchers' Club is getting strong and has quite a membership. Carl Luster(?) is on the sick list. The Pinochle Club is still at it. Koko Shadle is the champion player. He went to bed Wednesday night
after a long session, and the next morning he was telling the boys of the good games he had played, and of the 250 melds and 100 aces and big bids. He wanted to start a game right then and there. He is some player, is Koko, and if ever he has a monument erected it will surely be a pinochle deck. Hiss side partner, Chris. Livingston, is almost as enthusiastic over the game. Mme. Wulff's menage act, with her trained dog and pigeons, present a novel garland arch, which is a big hit with this show, and will open in New York shortly and treat the residents there to a novel act. Herr Edward Wulff is working on some new stuff for the New York opening.
Des Moines, Ia. - The show arrived early and had a long haul and good lot, on a street car lot. Our sleepers were nearer to the show than they have been for many years, as they were so cIose to the canvas that the guy ropes were attached to the rods of the cars. We sat on the car steps and saw the concert and heard the jokes as plainly as if we were in the seats. Business in Des Moines was big in the afternoon and good at night. At Waterloo, Ia., the show arrived early and had a long haul and good lot. Afternoon was big and the weather very hot. New York Clipper, July 23, 1910, p. 582. Information should be checked with additional sources
Ritchie's - 1890
Receiver's Sale, Monday,November 24, by order of Circuit Court of Jefferson County, menagerie and circus . . . consisting of monkeys, trained dogs, bears, leopards, lions, parrots, eagles, Chinese cow, trick mules, ring and trained horses, band and ticket wagons, tents, seats, etc., to be sold for cash in hand. . . . Frank Silverman, receiver, Pine Bluff, Ark. New York Clipper, November 22, 1890, 588.
Ritchie's Circus and Menagerie, which was attached for debt several weeks ago at Pine Bluffs, Ark., and has since been in the hands of the Sheriff, was sold at auction Nov. 24, at the stables on East Barraque Street, where the stock, animals, cages, band wagons, tents and all appurtenances, was bid in by G. H. Barnum, of Barnum & Cooper, who went from Birmingham, Ala., for the purpose of bidding on the property. The court fixed $2,000(?) as the lowest sum at which the show could be sold in its entirety. Many persons were present who hoped to buy animals which they fancied, but the opportunity was denied them by Mr. Barnum's bid. We are informed that Barnum & Cooper will place it on the road again, and retain the services of Mr. Ritchie, the former proprietor, as manager. New York Clipper, December 6, 1890, p. 613.
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Burr Robbins Circus - 1885
The following people go with Burr Robbins’ New Consolidated Railroad Shows this season: Geo. Holland, Sam McFlynn, Wm. Ashton, Wm. Francis, Jno. S. McMahon, Jno. L. Davenport, Master John Davenport, Master Albert Davenport, Jno. H. Coyle, W. Fred Aymar, A. Marquez, three Brothers De Van, Malville and Malcolm, Rob. A. Hewlette, Geo. Chareste, Prince Satsuma, Lewis Jordan, Thomas Romalo, Wm. Van Vleck, Willie Le Beau, Burt Stowe, Hugh Harrison, Jno. Scott, Geo. W. Lewis, Howard N. Stone, Harry McFlynn, Mose Lovery, W. H. Streeter, Kate Holloway, Ida McFlynn, Mlle. La Vern, Stella Bertram, Minnie Bertram, Prof. Jno. M. Smith, leader, with 16 men. Sideshow - J. C. Shipley, Hattie Shipley, Geo. Connors, Madam Carver, Gen. Carver, Lulu Ritter, Sig. Francis, tattooed man, Maori chief, Albino lady, White Moore, long-haired lady, cannibal Fan child, giant skeleton and a colored band of ten pieces. The show opens May 1. Burr Robbins will control all privileges. J. C. Shipley will manage the sideshow and outside privileges and Jno. A. Scott the inside privileges.
Following is the roster of the advance brigades of Burr Robbins’ New Consolidated Railroad Shows: George K. Steele, general advance director; C. T. Kimball, railroad contractor; Harry Murray, contracting agent; Edward Buckley, press agent; A. B. Bennett, agent in charge advance coach No. 2; Morris Connor, chief billposter; J. P. Manley, lithographer; W. S. Cleveland, J. E. McCarty, A. A. McDonald, George Kramer, Otto Kastner, T. B. Reed, C. S. Ahern, Chas. Henry, Frank Whitney, advance coach No. 1; Ed. C. Wade, chief billposter; Chas. A. Bernard, Horace D. Newman, Michael Burke, Newton Fox, Elmer May, Chas. Harriman, Arthur Wellington, Frank A. Spear, advance coach No. 2. New York Clipper, May 2, 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.
Burr Robbins New Consolidated Railroad Shows - 1886
The Burr Robbins New Consolidated Railroad Shows opened at Beloit, Wis., May 6, to well-filled tents. Following is the list of the principals: Albert and Jno. Davenport, riders; Sig. Murdelle, high-wire; Three Albions, brother-act and Roman-ladders; the Musdelles, double-trapeze; Elnino Eddie, tight-rope; Gay and Levanion, Spanish-rings; Valvo, Japanese-perch; Victor Jerome, contortionist; Mlle. Angelo, Indian-clubs; Franc Martinez, Jules Trollop, Fritz Steinschmit, clowns. The annex is managed by Geo. Connor, and contains Madam and Gen. Carver, mighty and mite; Frank De Burdy, tattooed; Zobediah Zoleda, Circassian; Prof. Harrington and Miss Harrington, trained-birds, and the Peters colored band. New York Clipper, May 15, 1886, p. 136>. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Frank A. Robbins' Circus - 1885, 1906, 1910, 1912
1885: Frank A. Robbins’ Circus, Museum and Menagerie includes, in the advance department: O. J. Ferguson, manager of all advertising and railroad contractor; Henry W. Mann, contracting agent; Harry Hapgood, press agent; J. A. Reed, superintendent car No. 1, with sixteen billposters; F. W. Hodges, superintendent car No. 2, with twelve billposters; W. H. Sylvester, manager of Stereopticon Exhibition and superintendent of bugle brigade, with six buglers; Ora J. Robbins, advertising programme with the show; Frank A. Robbins, proprietor and manager; Wm. Loper, assistant manager; Warren Bouton, treasurer; Jas. E. Cooke, equestrian director; Chas W. Fish, somersault bareback equestrian; Chas. Lowry, hurdle rider; Jas. E. Cooke; four horse equestrian; Mme. Dubsky, equestrienne; Mme. McDonald, equestrienne; Col. John Foster, clown; Ringford Bros. (John and Connie), Metle Bros. (Rudolph and Louis), Annetta (snake charmer), DeComa Family (three in number), Andy Gaffney, Cuponti, Jacket Chy’s Royal Japs, Mlle. Alma, Wm. Harbeck, Felix McDonald, Ali Berber’s Troupe of Bedouin Arabs, Leopold and Wentworth, Leonard Ayres, John Wilcox, Francis Palmer (human cannon ball), Prof. Oscar Perry and band of sixteen people, Mme. Agnes Hall’s brass and reed band of twelve lady musicians. Geo. W. Cole is manager of the concert, and the people are Phil. Gibbons, Billy Milligan, Geo. McConnell, Leo Grant, Thos. Haley, Lillie Ellis, Maud Chatwood and Mlle. Julia Hulskamp. John Fulton is manager of the sideshow, with these curios: Mlle. Estell, long haired lady; Mlle. Aimee, tatooed lady; German Rose, queen midget; Mme. Etta, Albino; Zuleika, Circassian princess; Wm. Russell, fat boy; George and Henry, Zulus; Prof. Reynolds’ performing birds; Alex. Wilson, ventriloquist; Walter Broma, magician and Punch-and-Judy; Willis Jackson’s colored band and jubilee singers, and eight-footed horse, snakes, giant ox, etc. Geo. S. Cole, Cuponti, Walter Broma and Charles Corbin are the solicitors. The candy stands and reserved seats include Wm. Buxton, Jas. Dains, Tony Burke, Wm. McIntyre, James Casey, Thos. Eagan, Jos. Lynch, Ed. Crowley, Peter McLoughlin, Hugh Kelley and Timothy O’Donnell. Lucius Foster is master of canvas, with 40 assistants. Size of circus canvas, 130 ft. round top, with 3 fifty foot middle pieces; dressing room top, 80 ft. round top and five forty foot middle piece; menagerie top, 80 ft. round top and five forty foot middle piece. No. of horse tents, 4; No. of cook tents, 3. Wm. Randolph is master of horse, with 45 assistants. No. of horses, mules, ponies and donkeys, 185. Felix McDonald is superintendent of menagerie, with 20 assistants. No. of elephants, 10; No. of camels, 4; No. of cages, 50. John Kent is master of transportation, with 10 assistants. Total number of people employed, 320. New York Clipper, April 11, 1885.
1906: Roster of the Frank A. Robbins Show, season of 1906. - Frank A. Robbins, president and general manager; Fred Beckman, treasurer and general agent; Chas. W. Sprague, secretary; Frank A. Robbins Jr., assistant manager; Chas. A. Robbins, general superintendent; John Glennon, assistant treasurer; Mrs. Frank A. Robbins, manager candy stands;: Mrs. Chas. A. Robbins, in charge of wardrobe; Winona Robbins, cashier main stand; Milton Robbins, reserved seat door tender; Dave Haley, contracting agent; Wm. Goodwin, superintendent No. 1 advertising car; Thos. Van Osten, superintendent No. 2 advertising car; Harry Hodge, manager of sied show; Wm. Du Crow, equestrian director; Gennaro Marranzini, leader of band; Frenchy Haley, master of canvas; Whitey Likens, master of horses; Clint A. Graham, master of transportation; Steve Roberts, master of side show canvas; Ike Smith, master of lights; Jas. Shipman, steward and charge of main door; . . . The performers so far engaged are as follows: Jack Cousins and wife, Chas. Watson and wife, A. G. Lowande and wife, Three Herbert Bros., the Aerial Lloyds, the Ellets, . . . the Aerial Weavers, Carlosa and Silverton, Edwin La Belle, Vincent C. Harig, the Belfords, Girard Leon and Jos. Marty and wife. Side show people: Margerite Still, Frank J. Hurley, C. A. Bonney. Harry Moulton, Millie Lucretia, L. E. Debonaire, Montana Frank and Montana, Soldene and Olivia, Harry Mlio and La Belle Cleo. Frank A. Robbins has left for an extended trip, first to Lancaster, Mo., then to Birmingham, Ala., via Kansas City, where he will see the opening of the Martin Downs Shows, then to Cincinnati to attend the opening of the Hagenbeck Show, coming home via Canton, and Geneva, O. The Frank A. Robbins Show is practically ready for the opening, April 26. New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114.
1910: The Frank A. Robbins Shows are in their eleventh week in Pennsylvania. Business has been very satisfactory, and all conditions point to continued success in this State. Visiting day at Ellwood City found Dan Robinson and Walter L. Main the guests of Mr. Robbins, and all enjoyed a very pleasant afternoon. On Thursday, July 7, Equestrian Director Dave Castello Sr. celebrated his fiftieth birthday. It is unnecessary to say that it was a big day around the Robbins Show. Dave received many fine presents, and congratulations from his numerous friends with other shows. Also a very handsome goldheaded umbrella, a pair of military brushes, mounted with sterling silver, and many beautiful gifts from the performers with the Robbins Shows. New York Clipper, July 23, 1910, p. 582.
1910: Comprising the advance of the Frank A. Robbins' Show, which closed its season October 12, were Frank A. Robbins, railroad contractor; J. Henry Rice, general agent; Chas. A. Chapman, manager Car No. 1; C. D. Daley, manager Car No. 2, with sixteen billposters; H. E. Wallace, opposition agent; Ralph E. Allen, local contractor; Earl Conner, excursion agent; J. E. Gordon, press agent. Billboard, October 22, 1910.
1912: Frank A. Robbins' Wild West News. Roster of this show, which is at present playing a limited engagement at Sea Breeze Island, Bridgeport, Conn., is as follows: Frank A Robbins Jr., owner: Chas. Aldridge, general manager; Mrs. Frank A. Robbins Jr., auditor; Earle Cherry, manager side show; Harry Hall, manager five-in-one show; Chas. Aldridge, chief of cowboys, with the following bunch of "broncho busters:" Bill Harder, Ed. Lewis, Eagle Jack, Bill Davies, Dave Sheldon, Mexican Pete, Broncho Joe and Red Mathers. Cowgirls: Lottie Collier, Hazel St. Clair, Miss Cherry and Miss Allen. Chief Yellow Bird and band of eight Sioux Indians, including Young Deer, the only Indian contortionist in the world: Ogalalla(?) George, interpreter. Jos. Laporte and cowboy band of fourteen pieces.
The side show. Earle Cherry, manager, contains the following acts: "Brown," handcuff king; Prof. Blanck, "One Man Band;" the Great Nichels, mind reading, assisted by Miss Ayemar; Sig Albertino, Punch and magic; Muscular Le Van, heavy weight lifting, and Mons. Le Baron, animal trainer. Five-in-One show. Harry Hall, manager; Zoma, the wild girl; Pete, monster reptile; Estelle, fat girl; Ed. James, living skeleton; Prof. Jones, miniature working world.
The performance has many redeeming features, chief among which is the trick and fancy riding by Lottie Collier, and the riding and subduing of "Gray Wolf," the bucking broncho, by Chas. Aldridge, and last, but not least, a wonderful exhibition in the art of rope spinning by Ed. Lewis, a young man who spins three ropes at one time. Using a contrivance that fits over his head, he spins one in either hand and one with his head. Wm. Stickles, the "Rube," furnishes plenty of fun during the performance, and was assisted by his long-eared friend, "Dynamite," the unridable mule.
Pete King is boss canvasman; Bill Henry, chandelier man; Abe Saunders, George Jones, car porters: Harry Allen, announcer. At the conclusion of the engagement at Bridgeport the show goes to Waterbury, Conn., to fill a four weeks' engagement at Lakewood Park.
Frank A. Robbins has purchased a new Packard touring car. It is a beauty, seating eight, being used mostly for carrying Mr. Robbins and his family from stand to stand. New York Clipper, June 15, 1912, p. 11. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Robinson's - 1893 (C. J. Smith)
Roster of Robinson's Combined Show and Olympic Museum: C. J. Smith, proprietor and manager; Wm. Delmore, equestrian director; Frank Norris, head of advance brigade . . . Prof. Cooney, leader of band with nine solo musicians; the Delmores, Ed. Conklin, Will Howard and wife, the Smith Children, Marsh Craig, the Robinson Family, P. A. Gibbs and wife, Steve Kennedy and wife, Millie Florence, Gertrude Evelyn, the Leondos, Prof. Everton and his troupe of trained dogs, Frank Howard, Sadie Steele, Mabel Steele, Mabel Leonard, Larry McNair and Sig. De Orville. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
P. A. Gibbs Olympic Museum reports good business through the West with Robinson's Combined Shows. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
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Eugene Robinson's - 1890-91
1890: Paducah, Kentucky. Eugene Robinson's Three Floating Palaces came 26(?). Miles Orton's Circus passed up the river 23(?) on their way to the Cumberland River towns. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 115.
1890: Paducah, Kentucky. Eugene Robinson's Floating Palace gave an exhibition April. ?, to a good audience. They were to take a trip up the Cumberland River, but, after a week of bad business, this was abandonded. ___, their advance man started up the Ohio river. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 147.
1891: On the road, circuses: Eugene Robinson's, Quincy, Ill, June 26, Warsaw 27, Ft. Madison, Ia., 2?, Burlington 30 . . . Muscatine, Ia. July 2, Rock Island, Ill. 3, Davenport Ia. 4. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
1891: On the road, circuses: Eugene Robinson's, Keithsburg, Ill. July 1, Muscatine, Ia. 2, Rock Island, Ill. 3, Davenport, Ia. 4. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
1891: On the road, circuses: Eugene Robinson's, Dubuque, Ia. July 15(?) New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 313.
1892: Eugene Robinson's Three Floating Palaces will be sold at Vicksburg, Miss., April ?. Bob Mack closes his fourth season with Eugene Robinson's Floating Palaces April 4(?) at Vicksburg, Miss., and will at once return to his home at Cincinnati, O., for a brief rest. Mr. Mack mourns the loss of his mother, who died a few weeks ago. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
1892: Eugene Robinson's Three Floating Palaces will be sold at Vicksburg, Miss., April 4(?). New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
1894: The show boat built by Eugene Robinson was sold by the C. S. Marshall at New Albany, Ind., for eleven hundred dollars to A. B. French. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 810.
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John Robinson - 1891-1892
Notes from Robinson's Circus. The elements favored the Robinson show April 27(?), when, for the first time in many years, they opened at Cincinnati amid a burst of sunshine. The street display took place, and was voted a success in every way. Everything looked bright and new, and showed the faithful work of those about the Winter quarters. The opening was a success, and gave to Cincinnati people onw of the finest exhibitions ever presented under the Robinson canvas. Manager Jack Robinson was elated. The great spectacle, "Solomon and the Queen of Sheba," began the performance, and it can safely be said to be Rettig's masterpiece.The costumes are elegant, the ballet well trained, and show the able work of Constantine, the master. Over six hundred people take part in the performance. The hippodrome races, the bareback riding of the De Motts - Willie, Josie and Louisa - the daring feats of George Holland, Young Hollin and others made hits. Josie De Mott never rode so well, and was applauded to the echo. Emma Lake (Mrs. Gil Robinson) was called upon at short notice to make her appearance with the show in place of Mrs. George Holland, who was suddenly taken ill. Little Cad Robinson, manager John's six year old daughter, did a pretty manege act upon her pretty little spotted pony. John Lowlow looked after the rings, and was as busy as a bee. Dan Dale is handling the tickets in the wagon, as usual. The Robinson boys have the finest show they ever had, and one they can feel proud of. The Robinson Show is just about half as big again as it was one year ago. Then it required a train of thirty cars to carry their paraphernalia; now two trains are required and forty-five cars. "The Queen of Sheba" is the Biblical story, gorgeously illustrated in the beginning. It akes the place of the time honored grand entree, and when the Queen arrives to greet King Solomon that incident in the lives of those characters of olden times given an opportunity for a pageant of dazzling brilliance. The scenery is simply grand. It could not be otherwise, for it was designed by John rettig, who fathered all the spectacular successes of the "Order of Cincinnatus," "Rome Under Nero," "The Fall of Babylon," etc. The spectacle is presented under the general direction of Charles Constantine, and three hundred people participate. There are one hundred girls in the ballet. As usual, there are three rings, and the bareback act of Josie De Mott was one of the greatest on the programme. There are jugglers, acrobats, tight rope walkers and trapeze artists in plenty. One feature, which will take with the little people, is an act from the life of Humpty Dumpty. There are a dozen races at the wind up. This is the show's business roster: Sole proprietor, John F. Robinson; managers, Gil S. and John G. Robinson; assistant manager, F. C. Cullen; treasurer, Charles M. Robinson; assistant treasurer, Dan Dale; general agent, Oliver Scott; advertising agent, Sam Joseph; assistant advertising agents, Nick Huberts and De Witt Forrest Davis; press agent, Will E. owens; programme agent, J. J. J. Kane; John Kategan(?), W. P. Adams and Cook, managers of cars Nos. 1, 2, and 3, respectively: equestrian director, John Lowlow; director of hippodrome, John Wilson; manager of privileges, James Hutchings; assistant manager of privileges, Dennis F. Lynch. The performers include: Josie De Mott, Louise De Mott, Mable Reed, Millie Leon and Mme. Forepaugh, Millie De Mott, George Holland, Orrin Hollis, Dan Leon and Master Willie Forepaugh, the Lamont Bros., William Forepaugh, Frank Cook, Walter Kirl?y and wife, William and J. Batchellor, the Forepaugh Family, Da Commas, the Morrisons, the Seymours, the Reeds, the Fisher family. In the museum are Shields and his giant wife, Cad and Clara Claire, . . . Lilly Wray, Mr. and Mrs. Cornoms(?), Felix Wurlop, McKenzie and Madame B?r?o. The second stand was made at Covington, Ky., May 4, and the third at Newport, 5. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
The John Robinson Show opens its season at Cincinnati, O., April 23, after which it is to invade Kentucky. The entire outfit has received an elaborate overhauling and many costly additions during the Winter. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
Roster of John Robinson Advance No. 2: W. F. Adams, agent; . . . Ed. Braddock, lithographer; J. Pigg, programmer; "Senator" Hop Little, calliope player; Will Allen, Billy Norton, Chas. Kline, Joe Kaiser, Frank Hardy and Jack Mahon(?), billposters. New York Clipper, November 5, 1892, p. 554. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
John Robinson - 1900, 1910
1900: Gil Robinson went all the way to Egypt this past winter to buy camels for the John Robinson Shows. He bought thirty, all young and strong. Despite great care fourteen of them died on the vessel on the way over. This is one of the reasons that the price of camels in America is high. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
Cincinnati is to be credited with putting out the first real winter circus. That is a full-fledged winter circus that will use a special train of its own cars to transport it through the country. It will be the John Robinson Winter Circus and will take to the road the first of the year. Arrangements have been made for the appearance of this new enterprise in a number of the leading cities in the East and middle West. The John Robinson Circus has been most favorably known for the past eighty-seven years and the new winter circus will be the very cream of the big show with a number of new attractions added. It will be billed just as the big show has always been and there is no reason why it should not get money.
The executive staff has already been selected and while it will carry the names of many of the staff of the Ten Big, there are many new ones that will be identified with the winter circus only. The riding acts, aerial acts and ground acts will be selected from the bery best obtainable and the aggregation of trained animals will be particularly interesting.
In connection with the regular circus performance there will be a perfectly organized and historically exact wild west exhibition. This will be made a feature of. To conform with the best of circuses a street parade will be given in each town and this is considered by the showmen as getting a winter circus as near the summer event as possible. The Robinson large herd of elephants will form part of the exhibition and it will be the only herd that any winter circus carries. The policy of the circus will be to make the indoor circus as near the big summer show as possible and nothing will be left undone to attain this. The winter circus train will be made up of twenty cars and will be run in one or two sections as the occasion may require.
Mr. John Robinson will be the manager, Ed. C. Knupp will take care of the railroads. Fred(?) Mattie will promote. Col. Heckman will have full charge of the advertising. John D. Carey will be general press agent with two assistants and several minor offices are yet to be filled. Thus far the advance arrangements have been highly satisfactory and the winter circus is billed solid until the opening of the summer season for the Ten Big.
Ring Barn Gossip
Opposition between winter circuses will soon be in order and then may the good weather dispenser have pity on the tack spitters. Ed. C. Knupp, of the John Robinson Winter Circus, was in Buffalo last week, looking after the interests of the big indoor show. The John Robinson Winter Circus will carry 150 head of horses for draft purposes. These, of course, will figure in the street parade but besides these there will be twenty-five ring horses and those to be used in the big menage acts. The John Robinson winter circus will carry a band of twenty pieces and will be featured in the concert preceding each performance. When the John Robinson Winter Circus hits the town and gets busy with its billing there is certainly going to be some rustling among the theatre publicity givers. This same John Robinson has long had a reputation for billing and the line of paper has always been regarded as some paper. Robinson to Put out Winter Circus. [1911] Billboard, December 3, 1910, p. 21. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Robinson's - 1891 [John F. Robinson]
Notes From Robinson’s Circus. The elements favored the Robinson Show April 27, when, for the first time in many years, they opened their season at Cincinnati amid a burst of sunshine. The street display took place 25, and was voted a success in every way. . . . The great spectacle, “Solomon and the Queen of Sheba,” began the performance, and it can safely be said to be Rettig’s masterpiece. The costumes are elegant, the ballet well trained, and show the able work of Constantine, the master. Over six hundred people take part in this performance. The hippodrome races, the bareback riding of the De Motts - Willie, Josie and Louisa - the daring feats of George Hollond [sic Holland], Young John Hollis and others made hits. Josie De Mott never rode so well, and was applauded to the echo. Emma Lake (Mrs. Gil. Robinson) was called upon at short notice to make her appearance with the show in place of Mrs. George Holland, who was suddenly taken ill. Little Cad Robinson, manager John’s six year old daughter, did a pretty manege act upon her pretty little spotted pony. John Lowlow looked after the rings, and was as busy as a bee. Dan Dale is handling the tickets in the wagon, as usual. The Robinson boys have the finest show they ever had, and one they can feel proud of. The Robinson show is just about half as big again as it was one year ago. Then it required a train of thirty cars to carry their paraphernalia; now two trains are required and forty-five cars. “The Queen of Sheba” is the Biblical story, gorgeously illustrated in the beginning. It takes the place of the time honored grand entree, and when the Queen arrives to greet King Solomon that incident in the lives of those characters of olden times gives an opportunity for a pageant of dazzling brilliance. The scenery is simply grand. It could not be otherwise, for it was designed by John Rettig, who fathered all the spectacular successes of the “Order of Cincinnatus,” “Rome Under Nero,” “The Fall of Babylon,” etc. The spectacle is presented under the general direction of Charles Constantine, and three hundred people participate. There are one hundred girls in the ballet. As usual, there are three rings, and the bareback act of Josie De Mott was one of the greatest on the programme. There are jugglers, acrobats, tight rope walkers and trapeze artists in plenty. One feature, which will take with the little people, is an act from the life of Humpty Dumpty. There are a dozen races at the wind up. This is the show’s business roster: Sole proprietor, John F. Robinson; managers, Cil N. [?] and John G. Robinson; assistant manager, E. C. Cullen; treasurer, Charles M. Robinson; Assistant treasurer, Dan Dale; general agent, Oliver Scott; advertising agent, Sam Joseph; assistant advertising agents, Nick Roberts and De Witt Forrest Davis; press agent, Will E. Owens; programme agent, J. M. J. Kane; John Rategan, W. F. Adams and Ben Cook, managers of cars Nos. 1, 2 and 3, respectively; equestrian director, John Lowlow; director of hippodrome, John Wilson; manager of privileges, Dennis F. Lynch. The performers include Josie De Mott, Louise De Mott, Mabel Reed, Millie Leon and Mme. Forepaugh, Mille De Mott, George Holland, Orrin Hollis, Dan Leon and Master Willie Forepaugh, the Lamont Bros., William Forepaugh, Frank Cook, Walter Kirley and wife, William and J. Batcheller, the Forepaugh Family, De Commas, the Morrisons, the Seymours, the Reeds, the Fisher Family. In the museum are Shields and his giant wife, Cad and Clara Claire, Zolala, Lilly Wray, Mr. and Mrs. Cornoms, Felix Wurlep, Daniel McKenzie and Madame Barmo. The second stand was made at Covington, Ky., May 4, and the third at Newport 5. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891.
Wounded by a Lion. Montreal, Sept. 2. - While Robinson's circus street parade was in progress here several of the lions in an open cage began fighting. Equestrian Lawler [sic] tried to quiet them, when one of the lions seized him with one of his paws and lacerated his head and face in a terrible manner. It is thought he will die. Daily Republican (Mitchell, South Dakota), September 2, 1891.
Circus Train Wrecked. . . . Wheeling, Sept. 21, - The Robinson show train was wrecked between Steubenville and Washington, Pa., Saturday morning . . . The wife of Boss Hostler Eagles . . . was the most severely injured . . . Jack Lynch, the head cook, was also very painfully injured . . . none gravely hurt. The most serious damages is the destruction of the two cars, the wrecks of which had to be burned to clean the tracks to let the show go through on time. . . . Daily Times (Lima, OH), September 21, 1891.
Circus Train Wrecked. Four Sleeping Cars Leave the Track and a Score of People Injured. Pittsburg, Sept. 21. - A disastrous wreck occurred . . . at an early hour. One report says that between fifteen and twenty persons were injured. One, a woman, fatally. The John Robinson circus train was running as a special and at a high rate of speed. When within 100 yards of the station four sleepers left the track. Two of the sleepers rolled down a steep embankment and were smashed to kindling wood. The other sleepers were also badly wrecked. . . . Mitchell (South Dakota) Daily Republican Mitchell, South Dakota), September 22, 1891. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Undocumented information. “Old” John Robinson was born July 22, 1802 in Albany, New York, and died on August 4, 1888 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the first of three generations of circus proprietors. His father was John Robinson, who was born in Scotland; his mother Nancy Boyd. John married Margaret Yates in 1835 in Schenectady, New York. He later marred Elizabeth Frances Bloomer on January 4, 1841. The children of John Robinson were: John Franklin, born November 4, 1843 in Linden, Alabama; Gilbert N., born July 15, 1845 in Buchanan, Virginia; James H., born February 25, 1847 in Charleston, South Carolina; Frank M., born November 28, 1849 in Alabama; Kate V., born April 5, 1851, in Virginia; and Charles Marcelus, born February 5, 1854, in Cincinnati, Ohio. John Franklin Robinson, who died on April 30, 1921 in Miami, Florida, was buried in Spring Grove Cemetery & Aboretum, Cincinnati, Ohio. John Franklin married Maud Logan, and later married Caroline Heyward on April 4, 1866. From “Frank Genealogy of New York,” Ancestry.com. Information should be checked with additional sources
Robinson's Big Ten Shows - 1900
Mr. J. G. Robinson . . . Our business has been a shade better up to date than last year, and quite a heavy shade at that. We have only had one day of which to complain, and that was our stand at Tipton. At Layfayette rain struck us at 7 p.m., and fell in torrents, but it had little effect on the business, as they came in the mud and slop better than three thousand strong. Never in my time, and I go a way back, have I ever seen such a house in such cloud-burst weather. At Niles, Ohio, our business was very good, although the Wallace folks were only nine miles away at Youngstown. There was considerable visiting on both sides. Mr. Robinson went over in the morning to view the parade. . . . F. B. Wilson. Do you have more information on this show? Billboard, June 23, 1900, p. 5.
The social feature of the week was a dinner given by Mr. Stevens, of the executive staff, at the Hotel Schnenetey(?), in Pittsburg. Covers were laid for twelve, the table being arranged to represent a circus ring. Mr. John G. Robinson and his lieutenants, Cullen, Dale, Stickney, steele, Ellsworth, Ambrose, ????, McConville, Dutton, and Wilson made up the party. Cambridge, O., July 7, 1900, p. 5. Billboard, June 23, 1900, p. 5.
The Robinson advance force, in spite of promises of Messrs. Scott & Aiken, pulled Buckskin Bill's paper at Piqua, O. in retaliation. Mr. Dan Robinson put in Charleston, W. Va., and what Dawson and his braves did to the Robinson paper was - well, it was a plenty, all right. Billboard, July 7, 1900, p. 5. Information should be checked with additional sources Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Yankee Robinson - 1870 [various titles]
"Rouse's Point, N.Y., June 19, 1870: Editor Expounder . . . I was yesterday at Malone [New York] . . . on the Fair Grounds in Malone, where Yankee Robinson will exhibit his circus and menagerie of the 4th of July. . . ." Democrat Expounder (Marshall, MI), Thursday, June 30, 1870, p. 2.
"Yankee Robinson's Circus will exhibit in this city next Saturday." Portsmouth (OH) Times, Saturday, October 15, 1870, p. 3.
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Rogers Bros. Circus - 1947-1953
1947: Advertisement. Rogers Bros. Big 3-Ring Circus, Hippodrome Wild West and Trained Animal Show. Adults 90 cents, children 50 cents. Independent-Record (Helena, MT), July 15, 1947, p. 2.
1948: Rogers Bros. Circus at Franklin, PA, May 19, 1948; Oil City, PA, May 20. Derrick (Oil City, PA), May 15, 1948, p. 13.
1949: Rogers Bros. three ring circus at Portsmouth, Ohio, June 24, 1949. "Arriving by a fleet of more than 100 rolling units, the circus raised its tented city in short order. The 'roustabouts' first placed the cook-house and dining tent then moved on to assemble the other units of the tent city. Before the day is over cookhouse employes will have prepared 1,000 meals for more than 250 aerialists, clowns, acrobats, equestrians and numberous other performers and various employes. . . . program is highlighted by the music of the Roger Bros. circus band. . . . Charlotte and Capt. Eddie Kuhn staging wild animal acts . . . the Aerial Queens, stars of the flying trapeze; Nina Odell who directs her trained elephants Shirley Temple and Suzie Q; and Miss Gutierreue(?) who whirls high in the air on her aerial loop to loop. Tommie Whiteside, king clown, heads a host of hilarious clowns . . . The horse show featers precision-performing equines trained and presented by Capt. Jimmy Odell. The zoological exhibit includes elephants, lions, pumas, tigers, bears, baboons, llamas, monkeys and other beasts of the jungle." Portsmouth Times (Portsmouth, OH), June 23, 1949, p. 20.
1949: Advertisement. Rogers Bros. Big 3 Ring Circus, at Flagstaff, Arizona, September 24, 1949. Captain Eddie Kuhn and his steel den of man eating jungle beasts; Hope Lesperraz, aerialist; Mike and Mono Gutirrez, wizards of the wire; Fankie Lou Woods, aerial ballet; Rogers liberty horses; performing elephants; Flying Viennas, featuring the only man to do a double somersault while blind folded in mid air. Arizona Daily Sun (Flagstaff, AZ), September 19, 1949, p. 8.
1949: "Clyde Beatty and Rogers Bros. Circuses to Perform Here Today. . . . for Lubbock today not one but two circuses will perform here this afternoon and tonight. The Rogers Bros. circus, appearing under the sponsorship of the Lubbock Junior Chamber of Commerce, will show on the fairgrounds, and the Clyde Beatty Circus will perform across from the fairgrounds on East Broadway. The Beatty show arrives by Fort Worth and Denver railroad . . . Arriving by truck, the three-ring Rogers Bros. show has a program including over 24 feature acts. The circus has 250 persons on its payroll, including performers like Eddie Kuhn, who faces lions, leopards and other wild animals in one arena, the Flying Viennas, who promise to thrill spectators when they perform their somersaults blindfolded at the pinnacle of the big top, Frankie Lou Woods, who will present his famous Hollywood aerial ballet, and Margaret Ann Robinson, said to be the world's smallest woman with her height of 18 inches and her weight of 16(?) pounds. . . ." Morning Avalanche (Lubbock, TX), October 11, 1949, p. 4, Sec. II.
1950 advertisement stated Roger Bros. was a four ring circus. Played Beckley, WV, August, 2, 1950. Sunday Register (Beckley, WV), July 23, 1950, p. 10.
1950: Rogers Bros. Circus, 1950, had Joe Horwath, cat act. Sounds of the Circus website, www.euchronia.net/sotc/songs4.html.
". . . Featured in the Rogers Bros. Circus will be Capt. Jack Rogers and a trained wild animal act." Show to be at Alexandria, IN, May 23, 1952. Anderson Herald, April 22, 1952.
1951: A four-ring circus, owned by Si Rubens. Had a 5-pole 90 ft. round top with two 40 and two 50 middle pieces. Had three rings and one stage. Had a menagerie, three elephants including "Shirley." George Barton had his horses and ponies on the show. The wild animal act was worked by Swede Johnson, billed as Capt. Jack Rogers. Lloyd O. Black had the side show. There was also a monkey and snake pit show. Rubens' winter show was titled Seers Bros. The spec was titled "United Nations on Parade." Performers were Billy Barton, cloud swing; Carlos Ricci, juggling; Felix Morales, head slide for life; and others not named. "Rogers Bros. Circus, 1951, Joseph T. Bradbury, White Tops, May-June, 1951, pp. 22-23.
1953: Rogers Bros. Circus at Casa Grande, Arizona, September 5, 1953. "The Congress of Merry Makers headed by that noted old time veteran of the White Tops, Buck Leahy, includes such famous fun makers as: Frank Ward, Bozo Watson, Bill Mathews, Tommy Collins, Ab Johnson . . ." Casa Grande Dispatch (Casa Grande, AZ), August 27, 1953, p. 14.
1953: "The forthcoming Rogers Bros. Circus will be presented in a mammoth "Big Top" in three rings, elevated stages, a huge steel arena where the several trained wild animal acts are shown and on the Hippodrome track. Featured on the lengthy program will be a congress of international circus and arenic stars, including Captain Jack Rogers, famed European wild animal subjugator and his mixed group of performing jungle Kings and Queens of the forest and jungle with trained and perfoming fighting Nubian Lions — Royal Bengal and Sumatra Tigers, Black Panthers from Borneo and South American Jaguars — trained Liberty Horses — Shetland Ponies — a Canine Revue and educated Simian Actors — an Aerial Ballet with a bevy of beautiful gorgeously clad girls and preceded by a glittering, glorious, scintilating opening spectacle — The Land of Make Belief — that inaugurates the daily afternoon and night performances on Circus Day. . . ." At Casa Grande, AZ, September 5, 1953. Casa Grande Dispatch (Casa Grande, AZ), August 20, 1953, p. 12.
1953: Roger Bros. at Cass County Indiana Fair grounds, June 26, 1953. Featured wild animal acts and circus stars. The elephants with the circus were to appear in the downtown area with their six-year-old girl trainer. Logansport Press (Logansport, IN), June 25, 1953, p. 4.
1954: Si Rubens announced he again would take charge of Rogers Bros.' Circus. Billboard, January 9, 1954.
May not be Si Rubens show. Advertisement. Roger Bros. Shows and Rides, Otter Tail County Fair Grounds, Fergus Falls, Minnestoa, July 22-23, 1955. DeWaldo presents: Wideman's performing elephants; Heerdink's comedy bar act; Bob Parry ski jumper; Watts & Newman musical team; Miss Glorie, rolling ball; clown Billy; DeArmo South American jugglers; Bonnie Brooks, organ. Held a parade. Daily Journal (Fergus Falls, MN), July 12, 1955, p. 5.
It is unknown if this 1968 Rogers Bros. was the same show. ". . . March 3 . . . Roger Bros. Circus . . ." Featured Arwood's Acro K-9's dog act. Roselle Register (Roselle, IL), February 25, 1968.
After Bud E. Anderson was killed in a truck accident in 1950, Si Rubens married Bud's wife, Dorothy and framed Rogers Bros. Circus, later a minstrel show. Bandwagon, Vol. 50, No. 3 (May-Jun), 2006, p. 11. Si was with Bud E. Anderson's show before framing Rogers Bros. With Si Rubens as his partner, Bud brought out his old Bud E. Anderson Circus in 1944. Bud E. Anderson killed in Montana, 1950. His widow was Laura. Bandwagon, Vol. 9, No. 2 (Mar-Apr), 1965, pp. 20-23. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
E. O. Rogers - 1890-91
1890: News from Shipp's Winter Circus. George Wilson, rider, [goes] with the Rogers Show. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
1890: E. O. Rogers writes: "I was the guest of Adam Forepaugh at Philadelphia last week, and during my visit closed a contract for seven cages of fine animals and the elephant Bazal(Bazel?). This is my first purchase for my new show. I shall add some more cages of small animals. Everything is progressing nicely. The season opens in May." New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
1890: E. O. Rogers writes: "Mrs. Rogers and myself have been down with "La Grippe," both being confined to the bed at the same time. I am now convalescent, but Mrs. Rogers is still confined to her bed. I have engaged the following for my advance coming season: P. J. Morery(?), contracting, his ninth year with me; C. F. Miller, general agent, his fourteenth year with me; A. J. Dixon, press and excursion, his second year. I have just received a car load of cages from Hyatt Frost." New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 791.
1890: E. O. Rogers' Inter-State Show, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition. The largest wagon show in America. Wanted, a few more good people for the show. All must do two acts. ___ for a trapeze team, male and female, also a small troupe of performing horses or ponies. Billposters, report to C. F. Miller, above], April __. E. O. Rogers, Friendship, N. Y. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 77.
1890: E. O. Roger's Inter-State Show, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition. The largest wagon show in America. Wanted a few more good people for big show. All must do two acts. . . . Billposters report to C. F. Miller, April ??. I want to buy a pair of Elks, broken to harness. E. O. Rodgers, Friendship, N. Y. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 93.
1890: Roster of E. O. Roger's Inter-State Circus and Menagerie, which travels by wagons, using over one hundred head of horses: . . . Lillian Page . . . Mlle. Lorretta . . . Gillett and Brosk . . . Frank Devere . . . Maude Sherman, James Welsh . . . Smith and Lee . . . The show opened at Friendship, N. Y., April __ to satisfactory business. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
1890: The E. O. Rogers Circus is said to have stranded at Hamilton, N. Y., May __, on account of bad business and rainy weather. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 215.
1890: Notes from the E. O. Rogers Show. The show has not closed as has been reported. E. O. Rogers has been quite ill, but is about again, and attending to business. The management reports good business. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 231.
1890: E. O. Rogers' Show is reported as doing a uniform paying business since opening. They have had a great deal of trouble with the stock, having had thirty head on the sick list, but now all are well. Mr. Rogers, from his home at Friendship, N. Y., writes: "For five(?) weeks I have been ill, and at present can walk only with the aid of two canes. My wife is also very ill. I hope to rejoin the show soon. P. J. Morey, my business manager, is running the circus, and they have not missed a stand." New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 243.
1890: E. O. Rogers is still in attendance at the bedside of his wife at Friendship, N. Y. Mr. Rogers has not been able to visit his show in seven weeks, but his manager reports excellent business. A new __ft. middle piece has been added to the canvas, and a pair of panthers are a recent addition to the menagerie. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
Notes from the E. O. Rogers Show. Business continues satisfactory, and everybody is in good health. The company presented manager P. J. Morey with a handsome locket as a birthday token last week. . . . Dan Malcolm is making the people fall off the seats with his new "Pete Jenkins" act. The Marello(Morello?) Brothers are doing likewise with their crazy Chinese ___. Mr. Rogers will join the show in a few days. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 294.
1890: Wanted, for E. O. Rogers Great Interstate Show, singing clown who does two turns in concert, good knockabout clown, leader of band, and a few experienced canvasmen. P. J. Morey, business manager. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 303.
1890: Notes from the E. O. Rogers Show. Business continues good, and everybody is in excellent health. Three baby tigers are an addition in the menagerie. . . . Mr. Rogers is now with the show, having entirely recovered from his late illness. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 339.
1890: . . . R. F. Clement's New Show. . . E. O. Rogers was a welcome visitor for a couple days last week. He reports his show in a healthy condition. . . . New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
1890: Notes from the E. O. Rogers Circus. We are playing through Pennsylvania to big business, and the "Ghost" walks every Tuesday. Max Stankenstein(Slankenstein?), professionally known as Max Morello, and Jennie Harris, professionally known as Mlle. Meydino, were married at Scranton, Pa., Aug. 1?. Max and Will Morelle have separated, and Max is running a saloon at Scranton. Will Morelle is still with us. E. O. Rogers has returned to the show after an absence of two weeks. Carlotta Levens(Leven?) joined us at Pittston, Aug. 15. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 420.
1890: Max Morello denies that he was married at Scranton, Pa., Aug. 1?, to Jennie Harris. Mr. Morello informs us that he was married to Miss Harris six years ago. He also denies that he is keeping a saloon at Scranton, but is still with the E. O. Rogers Show. The item was sent to us from the Rogers Show. The contradiction leads us to think that some feeble minded person with the circus wished to pose as a funny man. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 468.
1890: P. T. Apple, cornetist, closed with Roger's Circus, Oct. 18(?), and has joined the orchestra at the Grand Opera Hosue, Wheeling, W. Va. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 532.
1890: A. J. Dixon, business representative of the Rogers Circus during the tenting season just closed, has resumed his former position as advance agent of the Seymour-Stratton Co. New York Clipper, November 22, 1890, 580.
1890: E. O. Rogers' Great Inter-State Show, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition. Largest wagon show on earth. Enlarged for the season of 1891. New tents, new cages, new trappings, new ideas. Wanted, people in every line of the circus profession, particularly a good, strong riding act, for feature; concert and sideshow people, musicians, bill posters. Four and six horse drivers, animal men, a chandelier man, boss canvasman and boss hostler. I will pay cash for a pair of performing elephants; also, camels and any American animals. To my friends, I would say that my health is fully restored, and I expect to be to the front every day this season. Address E. O. Rogers, Friendship, N. Y. [Note: has engraving of E. O. Rogers] New York Clipper, December 27, 1890, p. 672.
1891: E. O. Rogers' Great Inter-State Show, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition. The largest wagon show on earth. Enlarged for the season of 1891. New tents, new cages, new trappings, new ideas. Wanted. People in every line of the circus profession, particularly a good, strong riding act, for feature; concert and sideshow people, musicians, billposters, four and six horse driver, animal men, a chandelier man, boss canvasman and boss hostler. I will pay spot cash for a pair of performing elephants; also, camels and many American animals. To my friends, I would say that my health is fully restored, and I expect to be to the front every day this season. Address E. O. Rogers, Friendship, N. Y. New York Clipper, January 3, 1891, p. 684.
1891: Notes from the E. O. Rogers' Show. Manager Rogers has just returned from Chicago, where he purchased one elephant, one camel, a pair of lions, a zebra, an ___ antilope [sic], a tiger and some small animals. This, with our other stock, will give us a fine menagerie. Frank Edwards, of old time circus fame, has been engaged as assistant manager. F.(?) R. Blitz will have charge of the annex. Geo. McIntosh will act as contracting agent and Chas. F.(P.?) Miller will superintend the bill posting brigade of ten men. The following performers have already been engaged: The Leons, Wm. Francis, Carlotta Severne, Pauline Deboise, Mlle. Retta, Frank Dever, Fred Brock and Frank P.(F.?) Murray. We have also added a new band chariot and six new cages. Everything is as bright as a new pin and ready for the opening. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
1891: Call. All persons engaged for the E. O. Rogers Great Pacific Shows are hereby officially notified to report for rehearsals at Friendship, N. Y., Saturday May 2, at 10 A. M. Wanted at once, four good bill posters for country work. Always room for good working men, good table, kind treatment and fair wages. Address E. O. Rogers, Friendship, N. Y. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 124.
1891: Notes from the E. O. Rogers Show. Business continues good. A male lion was born in the menagerie last week. On July 1 a new menagerie top was spread. The veteran, Hyatt Frost, paid us a week's visit some time since. P. J. Morey, for eight years Mr. Rogers' business manager, was also a recent visitor. He is enthusiastic about his stock farm in Trumble County, O. Everybody with the show is well and contented. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.
1891: Notes from the E. O. Rogers Great Pacific Shows. Pauline De Boise received the following presents on her birthday, Aug. 3: . . . a valuable gold breast pin, set with rubies; a box of silk handkerchiefs, a pair of gold earrings, and the kind wishes of every member of the show. On Aug. 19(?) Mrs. Ed. Leon presented her husband with a ten pound boy baby. Mother and boy are doing fairly. Mrs. St. Claire presented her husband recently with an elegant gold watch and chain. The show is doing good business, and all are in good health. The ghost walks regularly. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
1891: St. Louis, Missouri. Housaburo Sam and Mamie Quinetto left here 1? to join Roger's Circus. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
1891: The E. O. Rogers Great Pacific Shows are touring Illinois. Business is reported to be excellent. Nelson Sinclair and wife, and Edward Len(?) and wife have left the show, but good people have replaced them. Housaburo Sam and Mamie Quinetto (Japs) joined recently, and are quite popular. Prof. Will J. Kirker, ventriloquist and magician, is on the sick list, but manages to do his work. Mrs. C.(?) O. Rogers joined the show recently. New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 432.
1891: The Great Pacific Shows. Wanted at once (enlarging company) for Winter season South. Circus people, bar performers, leapers and tumblers. Sideshow and concert people. . . . New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 477.
1891: The members of the Great Pacific Circus write that E. O. Rogers used them badly in the way of non-payment of salaries. Of course Mr. Rogers will deny. New York Clipper, December 26, 1891, p. 699.
1892: Stereopticon wanted. Oxy-hydrogen, with bags or cylinders. All kinds of slides wanted. Address E. O. Rogers, Friendship, New York. New York Clipper, January 2, 1892, p. 722.
1892: E. O. Rogers wants a full company for "U. T. C.," also band and jubilee singers. Long season. . . . New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 757.
1892: E. O. Rogers, Rochester, N.Y. wants "U.T.C." people for fall and winter. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 336.
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M. D. Rogers' United States - 1891
Roster of the United States show: Henry Rodgers, proprietor; M. D. Rogers, manager; A. E. Ross, advance; W. E. Thomas, agent; Mlle. Eveque, treasurer; Professor Zera, side show; Charles Brown, director; W. E. Phelps, William Ward, the Gonzalles Family (three in number), F. W. Olbenshaw, Marsalla, Dot DeFerra, Professor Albert Hall, H. Rogers Jr., Mons. Lorenzo, Walter Dinnie, Professors T. E. and N. J. Crawford, J. Brown, Mr. Cunningham, Messrs. W. O. Bronson, Vincent, Charters, Gettins, Walker, Ira Jenkins, boss canvasmen, with ten assistants, T. M. Greer, in charge of properties, and J. N. Martin, boss hostler. Season opens in Tacoma, Wash., about May 1. New York Dramatic News, March 28, 1891, p. 12.
Lew Nichols will have the sideshow privilege with the Great United States Show next season, which will open at Tacoma, Wash., April 15(?). New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
M. D. Roger's Big U. S. Show opens its season April ??, at Tacoma, Wash. The roster: M. D. Rodgers, proprietor and manager; Blower Brow?, equestrian director. Performers: . . . Dot Melville, Marsala . . . the Four Nichols, Ward Bros., St. Clair and Raja?, two Leondor Bros., Zella, with Master Rodgers troupe of trained ponies. Annex: Lew Nichols in charge. The big show top will be a one hundred foot, with a forty foot middle piece. James Willis in charge, with sixteen assistants. Andy Nelson, leader of band, with ten first class musicians. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 74.
1891: . . . Rogers’ United States Circus, recently organized at Tacoma, Wash., came to grief at Seattle April 28, being unable to pay transportation charges. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 169.
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Royal & Orton Pacific - 1891
E. L. Brannan(?), after closing with William Sell's circus, joined Royal & Orton's Pacific Circus as general agent, and reports good business in the South. Professor Lowanda and his troupe of performing ponies and dogs are a recent addition to the show. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
1891: On the road, circuses: Royal & Orton's, Uniontown, Ala., Nov 2? . . . Legrand 30, Troy Dec. 1. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 641.
1891: On the road, circuses: Royal & Orton's, Troy, Ala. Dec 1. New York Clipper, December 5, 1891, p. 653.
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Royal & Rough's - 1890
Bert(?) Leslie writes us from Milwaukee under date Aug. 10, as follows: "I suppose you have already received a full account of the riot and destruction of the Baldwin Balloon Co. and Royal & Rough's Circus, so I will say that we are now waiting for the city to settle with us. We gave two benefit performances, but did not get much out of them. The following are the names of the performers who suffered, losing everything: ___ and Parker, James Lee, the Dolans(?) (James and May), Prof. Fitzgerald . . . Maud Leslie, Frank Royal & E. D. Rough, proprietors, and Ed. Reilly, treasurer. Emerson and Cook's names appear on the bills. They were expected to join, but did not reach here when looked for. Also a band of eight pieces. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 355.
Rough's Circus was handled roughly at ___, Mich. Aug. 6(?). The advertised free balloon ascension failed to materialize. A ___ of several thousand people accordingly tore the tent to pieces, mobbed the circus people and ___ everything in sight. The small police force on the ground found it impossible to stop the riot. The circus hands escaped only with their lives and the clothes they had on. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.
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Royer Bros. - 1901
The Bros. Royer, of "Next Door" fame, are very busy fitting up a new wagon show. Archie Royer and Geo. W. Belford, of the old time Belford Show, are the owners and managers. Mr. Royer has had women working on banners all Winter. He has also purchased a lot of wagons and paraphernalia of Mr. R??olds and several beautiful wagons of Albert Wetter, and intends building his show up from year to year. He will open his tenting season May 11, at Pottstown, Pa. New York Clipper, January 19, 1901, p. 1046.
Wanted, for Royer Bros.' Great United Shows, artists doing 2 or more acts and man with trained ponies and dogs, good band leader and other musicians; also workingmen of all kinds. Show opens at Pottstown, Pa., May 11. Stop at hotels. Archie Royer, Pottstown, Pa. New York Clipper, April 27, 1901, p. 197.
Rose Royer, an acrobat, died Jan. 14(?), at Carrolton, O., from pneumonia. The deceased with twenty-four years of age, and with her husband was known as Archie and Rose Royer. She was born in Towanda, Pa., and was married in Steubenville, O., to Archie Royer, April ?, 1893(?). They immediately joined the Walter L. Main Show, being in the great Main Circus wreck of that year. She also served with the Wallace, Cole's and Ringling Bros.' Shows, and was two seasons with Byrne Bros.' "Eight Bells." The present season she was starring with her husband in the Brothers Royer "Next Door" Co. Mrs. Royer leaves her husband and mother. The remains will be sent to Towanda, Pa., where internment will be made in Riverview Cemetery, Jan. 1?. New York Clipper, January 21, 1899, p. 797. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Russell & Luce - 1893
1893: On the road, circuses: Russell & Luce's, Cadix OH July 3-8. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
1893: Notes from Russell & Luce's Show. . . . Jimmy Dwyer has left the Sun Bros.' Show and joined us. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
1893: Notes from Russell & Luce's Great 10 and 20 Cent Show. This is our sixth week and business has been very good since our opening. At St. Claireville, O., we added a band of six pieces, under the leadership of Prof. H. H.(?) Dickson. M. E.(F.?) Simpson is making quite a hit with his "Rube" make up ahead of the band. At Barnesville, Minn., Russell & Luce purchased from the Sun Bros.' Circus the trick donkey Jerry, and he is now worked very ___ by ?. H. Ruddell. We now have a parade of ladies, all mounted, leading our "farmer" band, led by M. Simpson, followed by the clown and trick donkey Jerry. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
1893: On the road, circuses: Russell & Luce's, Quaker City OH July 26, Cambridge 27-29. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 329.
1893: Wanted, specialty people and musicians of all kinds, immediately. B Flat cornet to double second violin. Address M. F.(P.?) Luce, care Russell & Luce's Show, Cambridge, O., Saturday, July 29. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 338.
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Ryan's - 1882
Pat Ryan of Albany, New York, and old time showman, has purchased an elephant, dens, a menagerie of animals, tents, wardrobe, etc., of Barnum, Bailey & Hutchinson, amounting to nearly $40,000 cash, and takes the road the present year, after several seasons of retirement and rest. J. W. Holmes has all the privileges with the Pat Ryan Show. New York Clipper, February 18, 1882. 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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