Circuses - Brief Bits

S

Sample's - 1892

    Wanted for Sample's Great 25cts. One Ring Circus. Circus people doing two or more acts. Female trapeze performer, people that double in brass, contortionist, band leader, bar performer, ??? sword act, leaping off spring board, etc. Open at Humboldt, Ia., April ??. A wagon show. L. L. Sample. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 802.
    F.(?) W. Hall, formerly with Wintermute Bros.' New Colossal Shows, has signed as general contracting agent with Sample's Twenty-five Cent One Ring Circus. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 827.
    Wanted, for Sample's Great 25cts One Ring Circus, a team to do double bar act, ladder act and to go in leaps or tumbling. Also a first B-flat cornet. A neat, clean, new wagon show. Address L. L. Sample, manager, Humboldt, Ia. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 30.
    L. L. Sample's Twenty-Five Cent One Ring Circus opened their season at Humboldt, Ia., April ?. The roster: Mrs. R. J. Sample, proprietoress; L. L. Sample, manager; Frank Hall, advance agent; Frank Cushing, equestrian director; the Cushings(?) . . . M. J. Moran, King Ziemer(?) . . . a one hundred foot round top. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
    On the road, circuses: Sample's, Arlington SD May 28 . . . New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
    On the road, circuses: Sample's, Pipestone Minn June 4. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.

    Humboldt, May 11. - When L. L. Sample of Woodbine, Iowa, got religion a half a dozen years ago, he promised himself and God that he would pay his old debts, amounting to many hundreds of dollars. Yesterday Humboldt witnessed the unique spectacle of a man keeping such a promise, and hunting up creditors who had forgotten that they held claims against him. Mr. Sample made his headquarters at one of the local banks, and he was there with the cash for every claim that was presented and properly vouched for, no matter how old it was or whether it was any longer legal or not. L. L. Sample is one of the interesting characters of western Iowa. He is known now far and wide as a crack fire insurance writer, but once uopn a time he and his brother, T. J. Sample, were proprietors of a circus - "Sample's Great 25 cent One Ring Circus" they called it. They put every cent that they themselves had and all that they could borrow into the enterprise, but they knew much more about a lot of other things than they did about the circus business, and they soon went "broke." They didn't save a thing from the wreck. On the contrary they came out of it deeply in debt. L. L. Sample turned his attention to other things, and ten years ago was the star circulation solicitor for a Council Bluffs daily newspaper. He was a whirlwind, full of energy and perseverance, and he set a pace in getting business that few others could follow. Later he turned his attention to fire insurance, for a Des Moines company, and he almost invariably carries off the honors from month to month for new business secured. This man got religion just six years ago. He got it thoroughly and he entered upon the business of his Christian life with as much vigor as he gave to his fire insurance business - his "other" fire insurance business, he jocularly calls it. He hadn't thought much about his old debts, but now they got on his mind and he dreamed a dream, he says, in which God called on him to square up those old accounts, so he promised if God would help him. He worked hard, he prospered, be made fortunate investments, and Saturday he came to Humboldt with all the cash necessary to put himself right with the world. Just as unique as L. L. Sample himself was the notice he published in the Humboldt newspapers, giving notice to his creditors to dig up their musty old records for their claim against him. It was as follows:
    Woodbine, la., April 25, 1908. - To My Many Creditors: Having been converted in a dream on the 9th day of May 1902, the Lord called on me to pay all outstanding notes and book accounts against R. J. and L. L. Sample, proprietor and manager of Sample's Great Twenty-five Cent One Ring Circus, at their face value when He would provide the funds, providing they are still held by the parties which gave up value for such notes or such book accounts, and I have set Saturday. May 9, 1908, just six years from the day of my conversion, at which time all my old creditors and friends may find me at the Humboldt State bank from 9 a. m., where I will be glad to receive and inspect all notes and book accounts held against the above names, and if found satisfactory will pay them face value. I promised the Lord about three years ago I would do this as soon as He gave me the money wherewith to pay the same, and as the Lord has now fulfilled his part of the agreement, I am ready to fill mine: Yours cordially. L. L. Sample. Saturday more than one Humboldt business man of olden days felt that he literally found something, for Sample's Great Twenty-five Cent One Ring Circus, and its debts had long been forgotten. Waterloo (IA) Semi Weekly Courier, May 12, 1908.

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Sanger & Lent - 1893-94

    1893: "Senator" Frank B. Hubin, in charge of the sideshow with the Sanger & Lent's Circus, now touring the West, reports big business. Below is the list of sideshow people: Frank B. Hubin, manager and lecturer . . . Prof. Madden, magician, Punch and trained dog, Sanch?; Arcarris and Lester, knife throwers; Mizpha, Gypsey [sic] queen; a band of six pieces, monkeys, birds and two vampires. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
    1893: Salt Lake City, Utah. The receipts of Sanger & Lent's Show were attached May 31(?) by ___ the employes for back salaries. The amount was promptly paid and the attachment dissolved. . . . New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 231.
    1893: Frank B. Hubin can be engaged as museum manager or lecturer or booking agent. Address Frank B. Hubin, care of Clipper. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 244.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Sanger & Lent's, Tacoma Wash. July 12. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
    1893: Seattle, Washington. Leon W. Washburn's will be here 11, 12. Sanger & Lents' Circus 13, 14. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Sanger & Lent's, Tacoma Wash. July 12, Seattle 13, 14. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: Portland, Oregon. Sanger & Lent's Circus gave three performances June 30(?), July 1. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
    1893: The members of the advance brigade No. 1 of Sawyer [sic?] & Lent's Shows, tendered a reception to Fred Beekman, agent of the Forepaugh Circus, at Minneapois, Minn., last week. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 394.
    1893: The Hubins, Frank and Mille, will, at the close of the Sanger & Lents Circus, play the eastern museums for the winter. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.
    1893: Wanted for season 1894 with Sanger & Lent's International Allied R. R. Shows, Double Circus, Hippodrome and Menagerie, people in all branches. Performers, musicians, features and attractions, side show curiosities, animal and elephant men, train men, drivers, etc. Address J. B.(?) McMahon, Wichita, Kansas. Also advance car managers and 30 bill posters. Address G. Castello, Witchita, Kansas. New York Clipper, December 30, 1893, p. 697.

    1894: Wanted, with Sanger & Lent's Big Shows, candy butchers that can get money with ___ and candy basket. Chas. L. Bristol, Tiffin(?), Ohio. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 761.
    1894: Kansas City, Missouri. L. A. Meddle(?) has signed for the advertising car of Sanger & Lent's Circus. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 819.
    1894: C. A. Clarke, formerly with the advance of the Sells & Rentfrow Shows, has signed with the Sanger & Lent International Allied Shows for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
    1894: Call. All people engaged for Sanger & Lent's Shows. Report at Wichita, not later than April 12. The opening date is April 14. Address J. B. McMahon. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 78.

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Sargent & Kidder - 1892

    Wanted, for the traveling season of 1892 with Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show. A few first class artists to fill company. Performing dogs, monkeys and goats, aerial artists, acrobats, triple bar team, Japanese acts and juggling, lady club swinger and slack wire. All must do two or more turns, all contracts made by F. W. Sargent of the Wm. Main & Co. Show, are good for Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show. Address Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show, Windsor, Astabula Co., Ohio. Would like to hear from the lady contortionist that was with the Cooper & Carroll Show last season. New York Clipper, February 13, 1892, p. 820.
    The Merediths, Albert and Marguerite, aerialists, have signed with Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 827.
    Geo. W. Boring, clown and comedian, has signed with Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Shows as principal clown. New York Clipper, March 5, 1892, p. 859.
    Call. Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Shows. Performers, musicians, property men and other report for rehearsals Thursday, May ?, at Orwell Station, Ashtabula Co., O., on the Pittsburg, Youngstown & Ashtabula Railroad. Can use a few more sensational acts. Address Sargent & Kidder, Windsor, Ashtabula Co., Ohio. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 108.
    The Merediths, Albert and Marguerite, have signed with Sargent & Kidder's Railroad Show, their third season with that company. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
    Wanted at once, Sargent & Kidder's New Railroad Show. A bar team that do two or more acts. Would like to hear from Jack Fitz(?) of Fitz(?) and Ricardo. Regards of Al. Meredith. Wire as per route. Sargent & Kidder. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 173.
    On the road, circuses: Sargent & Kidder's, Middleport NY June 1, Gasport 2, Lockport 3, 4. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
    1892: Prof. Mons. Taylor, controtionist, and his troupe of performing dogs have joined Sargent & Kidder's Circus. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.

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Sig. Sautelle's - 1885, 1890-94

    1885: Sig. Sautelle’s Pavilion Show opens at Fort Edward, N.Y., May 7. Fifteen gilt-painted and lettered wagons carry the show. Size of tent, 150 ft. round top, with 30 ft. middle piece; size of sideshow tent 60 x 80 ft. oblong; size of horse tent, 35 x 50 ft. The show is officered as follows: Sole proprietor and manager, Sig. Sautelle; treasurer, Geo. C. Satterlee; advance manager, Clin J. Van Scoter; contracting agent, C. J. Mosher; amusement director, Sig. Levardo; boss billposter, Geo. W. Moody with ten assistants; boss canvasman, Dan Traver; master of properties, A. B. Johnson; master of stock, Bill Williams; wardrobe man, Johnny Nichols, with the following artists: Billy Nichols and Addie Francis, James Joyce, Geo. M. Larosa, McNally and English, M. A. Acker, Jas. Quinlan, Wm. and Bertha Lee, Geo. W. Barlow, Deforest West, Talman Bros., Nutton and Carrier, Prof. Shultz and silver coronet band; Mlle. Selna, owner of sideshow privileges; J. E. Belcher, owner of inside and outside candy privileges. New York Clipper, May 2, 1885.

    1890: The Inman Bros., contortionists, have signed with Sig. Sautelle's Boat Shows for the coming season. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
    1890: Smith and Roy have signed with Sig. Sautelle's Show for next season. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
    1890: J. B. Stafford [Swafford?] has signed to go in advance of Sig. Sautelle's Circus the coming season. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 791.
    1890: James Swafford, who is to be with Sautelle's Circus this season, was knocked down and robbed at Cincinnati recently. He is recovering from his injuries. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 75.
    1890: Dottie Pullman goes with Sautelle's Show this season. C. R. De Wolfe and J. W. Swafford have begun advance operations for the show. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
    1890: Sig. Sautelle's New Shows will be equipped with new canvas at Brockport, N. Y., June 18(?). . . . The show reports uniformly good business. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 231.
    1890: Sautelle's Circus and Wild West closed its sixth annual tenting season, Oct. 18(?), and went into winter quarters at Syracuse, N. Y. Next year the show will be considerably enlarged and strengthened in every department, and many new features will be added. Manager Sautelle has booked time and organized a hall show to take the road this winter, to be known as Sautelle's Carnival of Wonders and Trained Animal Exposition, in which his troupe of trained horses, ponies, donkeys and dogs will be the main feature. New York Clipper, November 8, 1890, 558.

    1891: These people have signed with Sautelle's Show for next season: Al. C. Dodson, general advance and contractor; Mlle. Cerito; Lottie Lewis, Clif.(?) Lewis . . . Lee Hazel and Eva; Frank Leopold . . . The show will add a new ticket wagon, a new band wagon and three new baggage wagons. The show will be bright and new all the way through. The workmen at Mr. Sautelle's winter quarters, Syracuse, N. Y., are busy building, repairing, painting and ornamenting the entire outfit, regardless of expense. Sig. Sautelle says that this will be his crowning effort, and that the show will be larger, better and brighter than ever. New York Clipper, January 10, 1891, p. 702.
    1891: Wanted, for Sautelle's New All Featured Shows, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. People in all branches of the circus business. A bounding jockey and 4 horse rider with or without stock. Side show privileges for sale. Address, winter quarters. Sig. Sautelle, 249 No. Salina(?) St., Syracuse, N.Y. For sale, 60 foot round top, used last season, in good order. Price, $___. New York Clipper, January 31, 1891, p. 750.
    1891: Al Dolson, agent, does not go with Sautelle's Circus next season, as has been wrongly reported. Mr. Dolson is a present doing the advance work for Barlow Bros.' Minstrels, and has not yet signed for 1891. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
    1891: J. B. Swafford has been engaged as general agent for Sautelle's Shows, making his second season with that circus. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 795.
    1891: Kitty West, the Three Indian Bros. and Prof. West are recent addition to the roster of Sautelle's Shows. Prof. West is doing some fine horse training, and a feature will be made of it in the new show. Agent J. B. Swafford tells us that the tour will open in May, and that painters, decorators, etc., are now at work on the wagons and boats(?). New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
    1891: The advance brigade of the Sautelle Show commenced operations April ?? under the direction of J. B. Swafford, with Lewis Bennett and three assistants. The show opens May __ at Fayetteville, N. Y. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Weedsport, N. Y. May 20, 21, Port Byron 22 . . . Waterloo 27 . . . New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Waterloo, N. Y. May 27, Seneca Falls 28, 30 . . . Lyons June 2, 3 . . . New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    1891: J. B. Swafford, agent of Sautelle’s New Show, recently paid the co. a visit. Business is reported excellent, although the weather has thus far been cold. The show is doing New York state this week. New York Dramatic News, June 6, 1891, p. 10.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, . . . Newark NY June 4 . . . Fairport 6 . . . Brighton 9, Spencerport 10 . . . New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 219.
    1891: Notes from the Sawtelle [sic] Show. Mr. Sawtelle had a surprise in store for the boys at Clyde, N. Y. He was away from the show for a few days, and no one could account for his absence. When Clyde was reached, we found an elegant new boat, finely furnished and decorated, and four big dapple gray horses and four new wagons, handsomely painted. The boats were landed by the side of the new boat, and a more dumbfounded lot of people could not be imagined. The show is doing a big business, far exceeding all former seasons. We are carrying an 80ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces, and the show includes fifty-four people in its entirety. Frank Black recently joined the advance force. Everybody is enjoying good health, and the “man in white” never fails to make his appearance on time. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 230.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, . . . Holly NY June 12 . . . New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Lockport NY June 24, Tonawanda 25-27, Newport July 2, Syracuse 4-12. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
    1891: Wanted, for Sautelle's New Show, brother act that can work bars, singing clown, wire act. Address Sig. Sautelle, Syracuse, N.Y., July 4 to 11. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 290.
    1891: Sautelle's Show is still reaping a rich harvest. The show's boating season closes Aug. 22, when the company will begin a tour of nine weeks by wagon. . . . Clarence Rummell closed at Syracuse, N. Y., in order to prepare for their engagement with Barlow Bros.' Minstrels. Dot Blendenger joined July 4. Manager Sautelle is making arrangements to send out a specialty company and parlor circus early in October. James B. Swafford will continue as agent. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Syracuse, NY July 6-11, Fulton 13, Phoenix 14, Baldwinsville 15, Liverpool 16, East Syracuse 17, Fayetteville 18. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
    1891: . . . Pauline Carre, principal bareback and hurdle rider, joined Sawtelle's Show recently. . . . New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
    1891: James B.Swafford, of Sawtelle's Circus, and Minnie Heindorf, of Syracuse, N.Y., are to be married in the fall. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, . . . Rome NY July 23, 24 . . . Utica 27, 28. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 332.
    1891: The advance brigade of Sautelle's Show consists of J. B. Swafford, general agent; John Toomey, contracting agent; E. H. Scofield, billposter, with two assistants, and James Rodman in charge of programmes and lithographs. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sawtelle's . . . Mayfield NY Aug 27, Johnstown 28, Norwood 29. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 417.

    1892: Wanted, for Sautelle's New All Feature Shows, people in all branches of the circus profession. Riders, gymnasts, acrobats and aerial artists of merit and ability only. Also people for concert and sideshow. Address Sig. Sautelle, Sautelle's Circus __ Street, Syracuse, N.Y. New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 770.
    1892: W. C. Brainard has been secured as business manager with Sautelle's Circus, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition, in the place of J. B. Swafford, who had filled the position for the last two seasons to the satisfaction of Sig. Sautelle. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
    1892: J. B. Swafford opens with Sawtelle's Circus, as general agent, April __. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
    1892: Samuel Bruns, of Buffalo, N.Y., has secured the candy privileges with Sautelle's Circus, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
    1892: Sautelle's Circus notes. We open our season May 13(?) at Fayetteville, N.Y. Our show has been greatly enlarged and repainted, and there has been no money spared in making this one of the neatest little shows on the road. The advance began operation April 28, under the director of J. B. Swafford, general agent. Henry Schofield is chief of the bill brigade, with two assistants. . . . and Ed. Shaffer is lithographer. Mr. Sautelle has been on the sick list for some time, but is able to be about again. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Fayettsville NY May 13, East Syracuse 14. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Jordan NY May 16, Weedsport 17 . . . Clyde 19, Neward 20, Macedon 21. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, . . . Clyde NY May 19, Newark 20, Macedon 21 . . . Spencerport 26, Holley 27, Hulberton 28. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 167.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Rochester NY May 25, Spencerport 26, Holly 27, Halbarton 28, Middleport June 1, Gasport 2, Lockport 3, 4. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Middleport NY June 1, Gasport 2, Lockport 3, 4, Tonawanda 6-9, Martinsville 10, Pendleton 11. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Tonawanda NY June 8, 9, Martinsville 10, Pendleton 11 . . . Albion 14, Brocaport 15, 16, Brishton 17, Pittsford 18. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
    1892: Rowley Bros. and Russell have joined Sautelle's Circus. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
    1892: For sale cheap. A complete show outfit. __ft. round top with middle piece 11(?)ft. wall Thompson & Vandevere, stakes, poles, ropes blocks, falls, __ jacks, uprights, __ stage scenery, all ready to set up except stakes, all in good condition. I also want to sell my circus, which is on the road now playing to good business. The cleanest and best paying show on earth for the amount invested. My reason for selling is that I have made money enough to keep me without working so hard, and I want to take a rest. . . . Whoever buys the show will not have to lay out a penny, for the show is complete from start to finish. This is a rare chance for anyone who wants a paying show. If I do not sell the show it will be kept on the road by me. Address or call and see for yourself. Sig. Sautelle, Sautelle's Circus, as per route. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 241.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle, Lyons NY June 22, Seneca Falls 23 . . . Ft. Byron 27 . . . Fullton July 1 . . . New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 248.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Syracuse NY June 29, Liverpool 30, Fulton July 1, Phoenix 2, Baldwinsville 4, East Syracuse 5, Manlius 6. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Manlina NY July 6, Canastoia 8, Oneida 9, Rome 11, 12, Oriskany 13, Utica 14, 15, Frankfort 16. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
    1892: J. B. Swafford closes as general agent of Sautelle's Circus July 14(?). New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Orsikany NY July 13, Utica 14, 15, Frankfort 16 . . . Mohawk 19, Herkimer 20, Little Falls 21, St. Johnsville 22, Fort Plain 23. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
    1892: The canvas of Sawtelle's [sic] Circus was blown down at Utica, July 14?. The audience left the tent when the storm commenced and all escaped unhurt. Three performers were slightly injured by falling poles. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Herkimer NY July 20, St. Johnsville 21, Fort Plain 22 . . . New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 300.
    1892: Roster of the advance with Sautelle's Circus: J. C. Tomey, contracting agent . . . W. D. Long, programmer, and O. Henry Scofield, boss billposter with four assistants. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Amsterdam NY July 27, 28, Schnectady 29, 31, Albany Aug 1, 2, West Troy, 3, 4, Cohoes 5, 6. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: Sawtelle's [sic] Circus closes the season Aug. 17. Mr. S. will take out a wagon show for the remainder of his dates. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 340.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, West Troy NY Aug 3, 4 . . . 6, Waterford 8, Mechanicsville 9, Stillwater 10, Schuylerville 11, Fort Edward 12, Sandy Hill 13. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
    1892: [Ad] Mlle. Pauline Carre, bareback equestrienne, at liberty after Aug. 13. Principal act, bound jockey, or one riding act and single trapeze. Own my own properties and stock. Address per route Sautelle's Circus until August 13. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 353.
    1892: Smith and Roy have closed a ten weeks' engagement with the Sautelle Show, and are resting at their home, Lyons, N.Y. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 356.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Stillwater NY Aug 10, Schuylerville 11, Fort Edward 12, Sandy Hill 13. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 361.

    1893: Sig. Sautelle's New Big Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie and Trained Animal Exposition. Want people in all branches of the circus profession. Dens, cages, elephant, camels and animals; also tableaux cars, steam caliope [sic] and wardrobe of all kinds. For sale, complete layout for a small show, wagons, seats, lights and . . . all ready to set up, separately or together at a bargain. Address Sig. Sautelle, sole owner, Syracuse, New York. New York Clipper, January 14, 1893, p. 729.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Sautelle's, Spencerport NY June 1, Brockport 2 . . . Albion 5 . . . New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Sawtelle's [sic], Rome NY June 21 . . . Utica 23. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
    1893: Notes from Sig. Sautelle's Shows. The following is the change made in our show the past week. We have left the boats and manager Sautelle has purchased three new baggage wagons, on four horse band wagon, a two horse ticket wagon, a two horse passenger wagon, one two seated passenger wagon, two buggies, one trick mule and two educational ponies, a total of fifty-nine head of stock with the show. Mr. Sautelle bought twenty head of young iron gray horses at Ft. Edward recently. The ring stock are in fine condition. This show fives five riding acts, one of them a four horse act by Wm. Hamilton. Last week the new 100(?)ft. round top, with a __ft. middle piece, arrived. Everyting is brand new, and business is first class. The advance brigade has been enlarged in one four horse bill wagon, one two horse, a paste and programmer wagon and a one horse with buggy. . . . We are playing in towns two weeks ahead of the Barnum Show. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
    1893: Notes from Sautelle's Circus. We are in the heart of the Adriondack Mountains, and playing to immense business. Recent additions to our stock department ___ of three iron(?) gray horses, two of which are leaders in the band chariot, making eight in the string. . . . We have a good old fashioned one ring circus and give nineteen acts, ___ of which are riding acts as follows: Mlle. Hamilton, principal one horse; Tony(?) Hamilton, jockey hurdle, one horse, and Wm. Hamilton, four horse act. Sport, the big white bull dog, does a fine riding act, jumping over banners. Tom Roberts, the Indian hurrah bareback rider, does a fine act. His make up is so perfect the the audience think him a real Indian. Wm. Hamilton is the Pete Jenkins of the show, and he looks like a big countryman fresh from the woods. At Ellizabethtown, N.Y., Pete came in the front entrance and ___ backwoods warwhoop, apparently very drunk, and tumbled over the guard, ___ the ring, stopping the performance of ___ Marra, the principal clown, who was riding. Mr. Roberts, ring master, promptly pitched Pete out of the ring, remarking at the time if Pete had any friends in the audinece to take care of him. Pete wanted to fight the crowd, and a big rube constable arrested Pete and started for the lock up downtown. He only got as far as the door entrance, however, when Mr. Sautelle told the constable that Pete was one of the company, and that was part of the play. The officer will never hear the last of that arrest in Elizabethtown. "Hey Rube" has only been called once this season, and that was at Mineville(?), N.Y. last week. The ___ came to the night show in force. The ___ of the town and some twenty of his ___ made an attempt to clean out the show [and] the concert. The boss canvas man yelled "Hey Rube," and Reuben was there with stakes, neck yokes, etc. The circus men cleaned out the ruffians. . . . The show came out of the fight without a scratch. Everybody is well. Prince Marco is one of the good, old, funny clowns . . . The man with a "white collar" is on hand every Sunday. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
    1893: From the Sautelle Show. "Prince Muro" is creating quite a sensation with his clown specialties. Mrs. Kathleeen Muro joined the show at ___ N.Y., Aug. 15. We have twelve weeks yet to stay out this season, and business has been tremendously big ever since opening day. Mr. Sautelle was on the sick list all last week, but he is now on duty, shoving out the paste boards and pulling in the shining shekels. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 394.
    1893: Wanted, for season of 1894, Sig Sautelle's One Ring Circus, riders, gymnasts, acrobats, rope dancers, clowns, side show and concert people, musicians, boss canvas man, boss hostler, 4 and 8 horse drivers, bill posters, etc. I have 80(?)x120(?) tent, 12 foot side wall, for sale cheap. Sig. Sautelle, Fulton Street, Syracuse, N.Y. New York Clipper, December 23, 1893, p. 681.

    1894: Frank Burns has been engaged as general contracting agent for Sig. Sautelle's Circus. Mr. Burns was with the Forepaugh Show last season. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
    1894: Notes from Sautelles' Circus. Season will open at Fayetteville, N.Y., May 4(?). The advance brigade left the winter quarters at Syracuse on their tour April 21 with the following in charge: . . . Geo. W. Ripley, press agent; Walter Callahan, boss bill poster with two assistants . . . Frank Smith, programmer. The advance consists of agent's buggy with one horse and one two horse bill wagon. The show travels this season by wagon. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
    1894: Sautelle Show notes. . . . The people engaged are: Sig. Sautelle, sole owner and proprietor; Mrs. Ida Sautelle, treasurer . . . Tony Hamiton, jockey and four horse rider . . . Dan Travers, wardrobe . . . Prof. Saterlee's educated dogs, ponies and monkeys. . . . New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 163.

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Schiedell Bros. - 1889, 1891

    1889: Harry Osborn, orator, joined the Schiedell Bros. Show at St. Paul, Minn. New York Clipper, September 28, 1889, p. 478.

    1891: Scheidell Bros. Salt Lake City, U. Jan 5-10. New York Clipper, January 3, 1891, p. 675.
    1891: Chas. Scheidell, of Scheidell Bros., is in the city [New York] fitting up his show. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
    1891: Attention, sideshow people. Wanted curiosities and freaks, also two good sideshow talkers that make strong openings. Address Schiedell Bros., Continental Hotel, ___ and Broadway, New York. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 343.

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Schiller - 1890

    1890: Notes from Schiller's Show. The season opened at Kansas City, Mo., May 1(?), for four days. The following is the roster: R. F. Schiller, proprietor; John J. Holland(?), manager; Joe Robb(?), equestrian director . . . Dollie Gazelle . . . J. L. Thorpe, leader of band with ten musicians; . . . Bud Hyer, contracting agents; and Chas. Ryer(?), boss billposter with eight assistants. The show will travel by wagon, and carries ten cages, one ticket wagon, one ___ car, one band wagon and then property wagons, with two wagons and a buggy in advance. . . . The sideshow is managed by Prof. Eli, and the people are: Mongo Park, spotted boy; Miss Daniels, Circassian snake charmer, and the Eli Family, six in number. ___ and Wm. Mudd are the ticket sellers. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 155.
    1890: Schiller's Ten Cent Circus was billed for Clinton, Mo., June 14(?), but on account of a severe wind and rain storm the show could not give a perfromance. A dispatch from ___ says: "About forty of his laborers are suffering torture in not having enough food and clothing. Several are going around barefooted. His tent is at the show grounds torn to pieces. Mr. Schiller says he has no money, but is reported to be the proprietor of a large hotel at Sioux City, Ia. Entertainments were given __, to provide for the wants of the performers only, because the performers are left in a destitute condition. The town will probably provide for them. New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 243.
    1890: Notes from Fulford & Co.'s New London Shows. . . . They have also purchased two more cages of animals from the Schiller Show which increases their menagerie to ten cages. . . . New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.

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Scott's - 1890

    Notes from Scott's Combined Shows. We opened a season at St. Marys, O., May __, the following being our roster: Chas. Braden, general manager . . . Frank Scott, equestrian director . . . Chas. Le Bar(?); Ed. Hakins; Jack Hendell; Harry Thayer; Frank Morton; W. Morton; Scottie Le Vard(?); Lulu May; Tom Delevanty and wife; Frank Reddy . . . Will Peters; Chas. Mitchell; E. McCullough; the Three Le Reve Bros.; and Prof. Randell's band of eight pieces. We travel by rail and have a 100ft. round top with a __ft. middle piece. New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 183. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Scribner & Smith's Circus - 1891-94

    1891: Neil Smith was a Clipper caller Oct. ?. He is to join Sam A. Scribner in taking out a wagon show next season, opening early in May. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
    1891: Sam A. Scribner and Ned Smith are already engaging people and arranging details for the tour of their show next season. . . . Scribner & Smith's Show will begin operations at Youngstown, O., April 30. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 616.
    1891: Scribner & Smith's All New Enormous United Shows, Sam A. Scribner & Neil Smith, proprietors and managers. Wanted, performers in all branches of circus business. A strong feature for big show and concert. Curios of all kinds. Concert people of every description. An experienced wagon show agent and a reliable boss canvasman and boss hostler. Address Scribner & Smith, __ Great Jones Street, New York City. Show opens at Youngstown, O., Saturday, April 30, 1892. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 627.

    1892: Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Sam Scribner is arranging to start a monster circus on wagons from Youngstown and Pittsburg early in April. New York Clipper, January 2, 1892, p. 716.
    1892: Scribner & Smith's Enormous United Shows. Now we want first class musicians for all kinds; six good billposters; four and six horse drivers, groms, canvasmen and boss property man; also one or two more good acts for big show. Address: Musicians, Thos. McGowan, __ Liberty Street, Pittsburg, Pa.; grooms and drivers, Jack Kent, Frenchtown, N.J.; billposters, J. R. Tucker, Canton, Bradford County, Pa.; all others Scribner & Smith, 108 Fourth Avenue, New York City. New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 756.
    1892: George La Barre, formerly of the La Barre Bros., contortionists, has signed for the tenting season with Scribner & Smith's Show. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 779.
    1892: Prof. Parliman, solo cornettist, has signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 792.
    1892: Scribner & Smith have purchased the ring stock of the late Main & Sargent Show, consisting of two spotted trick horses, three Shetland ponies, two trick donkeys, a riding dog, a troupe of performing dogs, eighteeen draft horses and several wagons. The deal was made with William Main, who was the former owner. They have also closed their contract with their printers for their season's paper, and the first fifty days' paper is ready . . . Mr. Smith was at Pittsburg, Pa., last week, on business. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 843.
    1892: For sale, a troupe of well broke trick dogs, five Russian poodles and a greyhound. These dogs have been with Main & Sargent Show for past five years. Have also for sale a good band wagon. Address Sam A. Scribner, of Scribner & Smith, American Hotel, ___, Va. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 853.
    1892: Ed. and Jerome Abey have secured the sideshow privileges with Scribner & Smith Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
    1892: Wanted, a few more musicians, a female aerial act, and a single lady, to do two turns in concert. Scribner & Smith, Commercial Hotel, Youngstown, Ohio. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 111.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smiths . . . Niles OH May 2, Warren 3, Ravenna 4, Kent 5, Akron 6, Cuyahoga Falls 7. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 119.
    1892: Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows opened their season at Youngstown, O., April 30, and had packed tents both afternoon and evening. Their roster: Scribner & Smith, proprietors; Sam A. Scribner, manager; Neil Smith, treasurer; Henry Wright, ticket seller; Charles Cook, press agent; J. R. Tucker, general agent; Harry Howard, charge of brigade . . . C.(?) A. True, leader of band; Jack Kent, superintendent of lot(?); John Ward, master of canvas . . . John Holloway, charge of cook tent . . . Will Alexander; Durell and Austin . . . Smith Bros.; Jermoe Abbey . . . Alexander Bros. . . . George Martin and wife; Cook Bros.; Alice Sinclair; Sandres and Sandres . . . New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, Ravenna OH May 4, Kent 5, Akron 6, Coyahoga Falls 7 . . . Canton 10, North Lawrence 11, Orrville 12, Ashland 13, Mansfield 14. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
    1892: Wanted, trap drummer; song and dance team, serio comic, song and dance lady for the concert. Contracting agent, boss billposter. Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows, Address American Hotel, Pittsburg, Pa. Wanted, contracting agent, boss billposter. Address J. R.(?) Tucker, general agent. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 143.
    1892: Roster of Scribner & Smith's Show. . . . A. J. French, contracting agent; Chas. Rowell, master of paper, with five assistants; J. E. Garvey, lithographer, with one assistant . . . second brigade, four days in advance, Geo. W. Meyer and one assistant; two agent's buggies, one four horse bill wagon, one two horse paste wagon and one one horese wagon for second brigade. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 146.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith, Lawrence, OH May 11, Orrville 12, Ashland 13, Mansfield 14. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
    1892: Wanted, for the sideshow with Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows. Man and wife to do mind reading and lecture. Also iron jawed man, a circassian, and one or two good female freaks. Address Scribner & Smith, American Hotel, Pittsburg, Pa. Jules Vernon, write. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 173.
    1892: Scribner & Smith's report. At last we have settled weather, and it finds our two enterprising young managers with a new sideshow canvas, two new horse tents, fifteen head of draft horses and several wagons added to our already fine outfit. The Erb Show stranded within six miles of us June 4(?). Our superintendent, Jack Kent, went on to see them, and came back with ten horses, four wagons, several sets of harness, etc. We have not missed a performance since we opened, although the roads have been fearful and the routes long. At Towanda, we gave three shows. We also have a kindly remembrance of the mountains of Pennsylvania, as we turned people away in several towns during heavy rain storms. We are now headed for the Hudson River. . . . We expect to be paddling our feet in the surf in three weeks. Mrs. Neil Smith and son, Eugene, were visitors last week. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
    1892: Wanted, for Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows, double aerial act, one or two female ground acts, and other good circus acts. Address Scribner & Smith as per route: Hawley, Pa. June 18 . . . Deckertown, NJ 22, Newton 23, Waterloo 24, Dover 25, Boonston 27. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 239.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, Dockertown NJ June 22, Newton 23, Waterloo 24 . . . New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 248.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, Long Branch NJ July 6, Asbury Park 7, South Amboy 8, Perth Amboy 9, Stapleton S.I. 11, New Brighton 12, Port Richmond 13, Bergen Point NJ 14. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
    1892: Wanted, bill posters. Also boss bill posters to take paper. J. R. Tucker, agent, Scribner & Smith Shows, 108 Fourth Avenue, New York City. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 289.
    1892: Notes from Scribner & Smith's Show. Our business along the New Jersey coast has been exceptionally good. Harry Kernell was a visitor at Asbury Park. Manager Scribner purchased a very fine clown's turnout from Mr. Kernell, consisting of a tandem team of small donkeys, including harness and cart. Mr. Raymond and Mr. Otis, of the Hunting Show, were visitors at Long Branch. Neil Smith and J. R. Tucker are doing some fine advance work. We have not missed a show or a salary day this season. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, Port Richmond, S.I. July 13, Bloomfield NJ 14, Mt. Claire 15 . . . Hackensack 18, Englewood 19, Nyack NY 20, Tarrytown 21. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
    1892: Wanted, for a long season south, good circus acts of all kinds; man or woman to do outside ascension, and a Spanish or skirt dancer for concert. Address Scribner & Smith's Circus, Salem, N.Y. Aug 19, Cambridge NY 20, Housic Falls N.Y. 22, Williamstown, Mass. 23, Adams, Mass. 24. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 385.
    1892: Scribner & Smith's Circus closed a prosperous season Oct. 8(?). All connected with the show, including performers, musicians, canvasmen and grooms, were paid in full. They will winter about forty head of horses. The remainder were sold a auction 10. Jack Kent, superintendent, is already very busy making new stuff for next season. They will carry an eight cage menagerie, and promise everything new. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.
    1892: For sale. One 80ft. round top canvas, with a 40ft. middle piece. One __ft. dressing tent, new last Spring; one main entrance, new last Spring. All poles, ropes, stakes, flags, bale rings, reserve seats, curtains and carpets, etc., in good condition, for $250(?) cash. Addrss Scribner & Smith, 104(?) Fourth Avenue, New York. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 536.
    1892: Luke Rivers will do his "Pete Jenkins" act with Scribner & Smith's Circus next season. New York Clipper, November 12, 1892, p. 570.
    1892: Scribner & Smith's All New Enormous United Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Wild West, Royal Japanese Troupe, Arab Athletes, Elevated Stage and Free Horse Fair. Wanted, for season of 1893. Performers in every branch of the circus business, side show and concert people of every description, and a good Spanish or serpentine dancer. Address Scribner & Smith, __ Fourth Ave., New York City. New York Clipper, November 19, 1892, p. 596.
    1892: Everything in and about Scribner & Smith's winter quarters presents a busy appearance. New stuff is constantly arriving, and the management have purchased the majority of the Harper Bros.' outfit and several wagons from the C. J. Gregory Show. They have also secured a fine pair of black bears and a puma, which are now quartered at Central Park, New York. Several new wagons and a four horse bill wagon will be added to the show next season. Managers Scribner & Smith leave for an extended trip west early in December, and expect to visit the winter quarters of several shows in the West. The following people have already been engaged: . . . George Hartzell and wife, Luke Rivers, Elva Moran, Madalene, Holland and Burchine(?), Carl Hessel and F. H. Gross. New York Clipper, December 3, 1892, p. 624.
    1892: Scribner & Smith have purchased from the Walter L. Main Show several cages, an open den and a large tableaux wagon. The have also arranged with Mr. McAdam(?) for the use of an elephant for 1893. Their horses will be a special feature. New York Clipper, December 24, 1892, p. 670.

    1893: The Farnum Bros. and Josie Farnum have signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, February 18, 1893, p. 800.
    1893: The advance brigade of Scribner & Smith's Circus will consist of Oscar Rahn, contracting agent; J. R. Tucker, advertising agent . . . Frank Randall, charge of stock . . . Wm. Pearsall . . . and Nat Daily, bill posters. The outfit will consist of two agent wagons, two bill wagons and a paste wagon. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
    1893: Scribner & Smith's All New United Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Japanese Troupe, Arabian Athletes and Free Horse Fair. Musicians wanted. Address Cecil A. True(?) Mineola, Long Island, N.Y. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 842.
    1893: For sale, a one horse ticket wagon, new last Spring. Stationary(?) desk in front for manager. Ticket racks. Partition in centre. Reason for selling, too small. . . . Scribner & Smith, Mineola, Long Island, N.Y. New York Clipper, March 18, 1893, p. 27.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's, . . . Pittsfield NH May 3, Farmington 5, Rochester 6, Manford Me. 7, Saco 8 . . . Yarmouth 10. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
    1893: Eddie McDonald, contortionist, closed with the Guy Bros.' Minstrels, May 29 and on 30 joined Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 217.
    1893: Jessie Boyd has signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus to sing in the concert. The management of the show report business still satisfactory. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's . . . Columbia Falls Me. July 4 . . . Pembroke 6 . . . Red Branch 8. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 265.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's . . . Pembroke Me. July 6, Eastport 7, Red Beach 8 . . . Danforth 13 . . . New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith's . . . Amity Me. July 14 . . . Monticello 17 . . . Fort Fairfield 19 . . . Presque Isle 21, Ashland 22. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: Howard W. Durand and his little son, Dexter, are at their home at New Haven, having closed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. They have signed with the Oliver W. Wren Combination for next season. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
    1893: Wanted, 2 billposters and 1 lithographer. J. R. Tucker, agent, Scribner & Smith's Circus, Haverhill, N.H. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 391.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith . . . Bristol NH Aug 31, Franklin Falls Sep 1 . . . New London ?, Newport 5 . . . Charleston 7 . . . New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 413.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Scribner & Smith, Clar?mont N.H. Sept 6, Charleston 7, Walpole 8, Keene 9. New York Clipper, September 9, 1893, p. 428.
    1893: George S. Cole has closed with Sparks' Circus and accepted the position of special manager for Scribner & Smith's Show. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 447.
    1893: William Lowande is doing his bareback somersault act with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 483.
    1893: Scribner & Smith have opened their business office at No. 11 St. Marks Place, and are busy arranging for 1894. Jules(?) Jordan will be the treasurer next season, and Tony Lowanda, Martietta(?) Lowande, John Corriea . . . have been signed. Scribner & Smith shipped four horses to Havana, Cuba, Nov. __, to Tony Lowande's American Circus, to be broken for the different riding acts for 1894. New York Clipper, November 18, 1893, p. 595.

    1894: . . . Scribner & Smith's Circus . . . Geo. H. Gallagher will be the contracting agent, H. H. Sylvester of second brigade and stereopticon views . . . and Steve Vandeveer charge of stock. The advance will consist of three wagons, two buggies, eleven horses and twelve people. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 735.
    1894: Scribner & Smith's All New Enormous United Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Japanese Troupe, Arab Athletes and $15,000 Free Horse Fair. Wanted, circus acts of all kinds, boss canvas man, outside ascension and punch man for side show. Scribner & Smith, 110 Fourth Avenue, New York City. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 745.
    1894: The Leonard Sisters (Nellie and Flora) have signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 752.
    1894: From Cole & Lockwood's Shows. . . . John Kent, of Scribner & Smith's Show, has been here five weeks, looking after the details of getting everything together. He goes back to Scribner & Smith Feb. 1. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
    1894: Mrs. Nellie Scribner, wife of Sam A. Scribner, died Jan. 19(?), of consumption, in this city [New York]. The remains were taken to ___, Pa., for interment. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
    1894: Roster of Scribner & Smith's Circus. Scribner & Smith, owners and managers . . . Ned Smith, accountant; Chas. McPhee, equestrian director . . . M. A. Lowry, concert leader; Jules Jordan, superintendent of reserve seat and concert tickets . . . George Abbott, superintendent of wardrobe; Sam A. Scribner and Neil Smith, big show door tenders . . . Robert Stickney, parade inspector; Joseph Zimmerman, superintendent of camp . . . George W. Gallagher, contracting agent; Henry Sylvester, charge of second brigade and stereopticon views; John R. Sylvester, collector for advertising programme . . . John Kent, general superintendent . . . Steve Vandeveer, charge of ring stock; George Hawkins, charge of baggage stock. . . . Frank Taylor, charge of properties; Geo. Simmons, charge of lights. Male performers: Tony Lowande, bareback, principal and four horse rider . . . Robert Stickney, ringmaster and trick horses, ponies and dogs; McPhee and Hill(?), triple bars and brother act . . . Geo. Hartzell, principal clown; R. Lee Metcalf, general clown . . . Adams and Lee, black face song and dance . . . John Hastings, strong man. Female performers: Josie(?) Marks, bareback, principal and carrying act; Mrs. Robt. Stickney, high school menage rider; Marretta Myers, swinging perch and rolling globe; Nellie and Flora Leonard, wire and single trapeze; Madelene, Egyptian juggler; Madame Harrison, secong sight; Mable Milton, long haired woman; Annie Winn, Circassian snake charmer . . . and Maud McPhee, serio comic. Musicians: Carl Hessel, Al. C. Sweet, Frank Whitlock, Thomas Rideout, M. A. Lowery, Jas. Call . . . August Peiffer and Frank Engle. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 801.
    1894: Eddie O'Dell, contortionist and acrobat, has signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 832.
    1894: R. Lee Metcalfer(?) writes that he has signed with the Scribner & Smith Show, and complains that his name was recently published in the roster of the Geo. W. Hall show. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
    1894: W. G. Rollins, clarionettist and band leader, has signed with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
    1894: Notes from Scribner & Smith. We have purchased from Jas. A. Bailey the large performing elephant, ___, as a feature for our show the coming season, it being the largest elephant now in the country, and will be billed as the Giant Elephant. Our latest engagements include Willie O'Dale, somersault principal rider; Will and Emma Rydon, aerialists . . . Frank A. Rice and Sidney Burford. William Marks was obliged to cancel on account of the severe illness of his wife. Among the many callers at our business office the past few days were John Ringling, of the Ringling Bros.; Col. Giles Pullman, of the Pawnee Bill Show; Geo. Arlington, of the Barnum Show; Geo. W. Fursman, of the Reynolds Show; Geo. H. Irving, of the Cole & Lockwood Show; Chas. Griffin, of the Hunting Show; Tom Barry, of Albany, N.Y.; Robert Stickney, Willie O'Dale and our genial everyday friend, M. F. Gale. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
    1894: Wm. La Rue, of the Three La Rue Bros., has signed for the coming season with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 37.
    1894: Fred Whillock, euphonium soloist, has been engaged with Scribner & Smith's Circus. New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 38.
    1894: Jules Jordan, German comedian, will join Scribner's Circus for this season. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
    1894: . . . Scribner & Smith's Circus . . . the show opens on Long Island. Jules Jordan, German comedian, will join Scribner's Circus for this season. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
    1894: Notes from Scribner & Smith's Show. Scribner & Smith's Circus opened their season at Freeport, L.I., April 21, under the most flattering auspices. In honor of the circus proprietors stores and business houses were closed, and the town donned holiday attire, flags and banners flying from nearly every corner. The seating capacity of the circus was inadequate to accommodate the audiences, and straw was spread over the ground around the ring bank, to prevent the soiling of clothes. The performance went off without a hitch or accident. The sideshow and museum, under the management of James D. Harrison, was one continuous jam of humanity from the time of opening the doors until the closing hour. Among the many professionals and others who visited the show were Wm. J. Doris; Wm. H. Platt, manager Columbia Wagon Co.; Mrs. Lillie Scott, John Keating, of Utica, N.Y.; E.(?) J. Holland, of the Rose Hill Co. . . . Elmer Gorham, of the "Blue Jeans" Co.; Frank H. Whitlock, Hornellsville, N.Y.; Mr. Babock, Barney Link, of the Buffalo Bill Co. . . . Robert Whitaker . . . Charley Herbert, Harry Greves . . . Fred De Bar, P. J. Kenyon, Mr. Jerome and wife, Phoebe McGuire, Fred Devine, John Corriea, Frank Hoffman, Willie Adair . . . The performance opened with the entry, and, as all the costumes were made of the finest plush, it was a beautiful night. The programme was as follows: Contortion act; Brazil, the wonderful elephant; flying rings and perch, principal riding act, clown songs, horizontal bars, juggling, double trapeze, riding and somersault dogs, four brother act, slack wire, performing midget donkeys, chair pyramids and table high vaulting, jockey riding and tumbling. Each and every performer acquitted him or herself grandly, and the tent rang with applause during the entire rendition of the programme. The show carries one hundred head of stock, six cages of animals, elephants, lions, tigers, etc. Twenty-six wagons and two passenger hacks, with four wagons in advance, and twelve billposters. The show travels by wagons. Sam A. Scribner and Neil Smith are sole owners and managers; Jack Kent, general superintendent; James H. Hubbard, treasurer; J. D. Harrison, manager sideshow and press agent; Carl Hessel(?), leader of band with twenty pieces; Fred Whitlock, leader of orchestra; Chas. McPhee, equestrian director; Chas. H. Waldron, general agent; and Geo. W. Gallagher, contracting agent. Everything with the show is brand new, all wagons, buggies, cages, etc., painted red and gilded with gold. The show will put in a long season. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.
    1894: Notes from Scribner & Smith's Circus. At Kingston, N.Y., May 7, a large crowd congregated on the lot and were clamoring for admission long before the parade went out. The doors and ticket wagon had to be closed in the evening at 7.45(?) o'clock, leaving people surrounding the tents with money in their hands. The side show gave fourteen performances during the day and it was a very few of the attaches who had time enough to get a bite to eat until the closing hour. Since opening day we have had only one accident, and that was occasioned by the breaking of a ladder on which Burchill(?) was doing his perch act, precipitating him to the ground, dislocating his knee. He is all right now and at work again. Contrary to the usual order of circuses, buying new cages, horses, etc., every(?) week, Scribner & Smith have had no occasion to purchase anything since opening day. Sam Scribner says: "The show his hooked up proper and needs no additions or alterations." Superintendent Jack Keat(Kent?) is kept busy shaking hands with old time friends, while Neil Smith is constantly busy with the pasteboards and counting coin. The business of the show since the opening day has been phenomenal and the weather has been one continual sunshine. The concert is a first class one and the orchestra, under Prof. Fred Whitbeck's(Whitback's?) direction, is a feature. Jules Jordan supplies the Clippers and in consequence is a much sought after man on Clipper day. No one is allowed to "sponge" a Clipper with this show under any circumstances. Twenty-five miles is the longest jump the show has made so far, and the roads have all been excellent. . . . J. D. Harrison is satisfactorily looking after the press, and, judging form the lengthy and complimentary notices the show is receiving, is filling the position satisfactorily. Otis(?) Yeager, solo contortionist, joined last week. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 164.

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Sells-Gray Shows - 1900-1901

    1900: Opened at Elwood, Indiana, May 5. Show was at Aurora, Indiana, May 12, and the Cincinnati contingent was present in force. Among the visitors were Dan R. Robinson and wife, Jas. Hamilton and wife, Rud Hynika, Chas. Arnold, Mike Mueller, Mrs. Nobby Clark and others. The weather was all that could be desired, but the show was not seen to the best advantage. An accident to one of the cars had spilled a lot of stringers, only four of which had been recovered, and the accident, coupled with extremely bad weather for four days previous, had resulted in many of the workingmen deserting. As a consequence they were slow in getting up. Barnum has the canvas.
    There are six cages in the menagerie, but these are supplemented by three tableaux wagons and a water buffalo, and the arrangement of the candy stands does away with all suggestion of bareness, and conveys an impression that is satisfactor to the average visitor. The tops are by Murray, the menagerie being a 65 with two 30 foot middle pieces, and the big top 100 (which lays out 103), with two 50 foot middles.
    The ring performance, however, is great, and proved not only a great surprise, but a source of wonder to all present. It is a safe bet to assert that it is the best offered by any ten-car show on the road. "Stick" Davenport is riding in great form. Rose Marretta is at her best, and her protege, Miss Edna, is certainly a wonder. A great many marvelous things have been said about this young lady's riding lately, some of which have seemed at times to have been over-drawn or at least over enthusiastic. Since witnessing her act, however, we are able to state unequivocally that it is the most finished, graceful and daring lady principle act in America. The ease with which she throws somersaults and the lack of effort with which she regains her balance and easy poise are unequaled. . . . "Stick" Davenport is also entitled to unbounded praise. His riding this year is far and away above average. He has improved most wonderfully.
    The clown band is another pleasing feature of the performance, and Harry Tyler's high diving dog, "Charlie," is fairly entitled to recognition as such also. This dog climbs a perpendicular ladder of 40 rounds to a platform right under the hood of the canvas and jumps to a net. His work is all done joyously, barking and with tail wagging. He enjoys it and requires no orders or cues from Tyler from the time he starts up the ladder.
    The seating capacity as we said before, was rather limited, but this has been remedied ere this. The blues are ten tiers hight and the rerserves eight tiers high. There are two side shows, one the regulation museum, the other a hooche-coochee joint generally uptown. The concert is fairly good, as concerts go. Bunk Allen and John barton have all the privileges. John Talbert does the fixing. Genial Nobby Clark is selling belts. John Hummel is manager in the absence of Mr. Sells, who perforce obliged to jump on the advance frequently. Shorty green has the stock, and it is all good stock, too. It was nearly all supplied by Gray, who, by the way, has had several seasons' experience in a small way, and bids fair to develop into a able showman.
    There are ten cars, and, resplendent in new paint, they make a very brave appearance. Mr. Sells is deserving of great credit. Every one who knows the disadvantages under which he labored, and the difficulties that he had to encounter, will acknowledge that he has accomplished wonders. He has succeeded in organizing a show that will make money if it is kept in the towns in which it belongs and it gets its share of good weather. Billboard, May 21, 1900, p. 5.

    1900: Sells-Gray Shows added twelve very fine horses at Pekin, Ill. Mr. Sells is now looking for an elephant and two camels.
    The L. & N. held up the Sells-Gray train at Louisville, and after stopping it, put a hundred men at work on it. They equipped it with air, Janney couplers, and overhauled it generally. It was expensive, but the proprietors are glad it occurred. Billboard, June 23, 1900, p. 5.

    1901: Sells & Gray notes. After a successful season of thirty-four weeks the Wm. Sells and Jas. H. Gray's United Shows are now comfortably housed in commodious Winter quarters at Savanah, Ga. The show closed at Miami,Fla, Thursday, Dec. 27. One of the pleasant incidents of the last day was the presentation of a diamond ring to Warren A. Patrick, treasurer, the members of the entire show having a share in showing this mark of appreciation. The trip to Key West was fraught with never to be forgotten memories, and one can readily imagine the volume of business when it is known that the inhabitants of the island had never before seen an elephant on their shores. Active preparations for the coming season have commenced at the Winter quarters, and the show will be brand new all the way through when the band plays for the first time next Spring. The management will spare no pains or expense to make the organization one of the best of its calibre in the country. Several new features will be introduced and the ring show will be especially good. Among those now booked are: the Earl Sisters, Miss Edna, lady equestrienne; Delavoye and Fritz, . . . Patrick B. Kelly, Holmen Bros. and the Milvos(?). New York Clipper, January 19, 1901, p. 1046. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Sells-Floto - 1912

    H. H. Tammen writes from Denver, May 9: ". . . The big event was the birth of a baby elephant, which we have named 'Little Hutch.' It occurred April 26, at San Francisco, Cal. Our San Francisco engagement was the largest ever played, I bellieve, by any circus that ever visited here, all of which was due, of course, to the exploitation of the baby elephant. . . . side show and menagerie, which is a 110 round top with three forties . . . I don't think it has ever been recorded where a circus tent of 160, with three fifties, eighteen tiers high and reserves fourteen, with 700 extra chairs in from of the reserves, and then on the hippodrome track, was filled this way. The first ten days of the season we had bad weather, but ever since the weather has been good, and especially since the birth of the elephant we have done an enormous business. The only reason why we are not doing more is because our circus, as well as nearly every other circus, has advertised baby elephants, and now it is a hard matter to get people to believe this is real, all of which proves that when a man has been a liar for five years, if he does tell the truth people don't believe him, so if there is any moral to this it is to tell the truth at all events, and when you haven't any truth to tell, hide. . . . H. H. Tammen. . . . [show had] three rings and two stages. . ." New York Clipper, May 18, 1912, p. 16.

    Sells-Floto Circus train caught on fire Wednesday night, June 5, fifty miles East of the Dalles, en route to Pendleton, Oregon. For a time the destruction of the entire circus train threatened. To save it a stock car containing sixteen draft and eight ring horses was cut out. The car and horses were destroyed. The famous baby elephant born with Sells-Floto Shows, at Salinas, Cal., April 25, died at Pendleton, Oregon, June 6. The loss is a severe one to the management. The birth of this elephant startled the scientific world. Everything was done to keep it alive. With the birth of the elephant the Sells-Floto business took on enourmous proportions. 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.

Charley Shay's - 1891

    Wanted, performers in every branch of the circus business, for Charley Shay's Quincuplexal Shows, Circus, Museum, Trained Animals, Japanese Troupe, and Spectacular Pantomime of "Old Mother Goose." Good pantomime and knockabout clowns, troupe of performing ponies, horses, donkeys, goats, dogs and monkeys, and any good sensational and novelty acts. Also musicians for 2 bands. Would like to hear from Mons. Alexis Schular. Would also buy 2 or 4 good trick ponies. Charley Shay, 27 Pine Street, Cincinnati, Ohio. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 161.
    Wanted, for Charley Shay's Quincuplexal Shows, a few mroe good useful performers. Also riders with their own stock. Two or three Japanese jugglers, good pantomime clown who can get up pantomime tricks and a boss canvasman. Address Charley Shay, 27 Pine Street, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 192.
    Prof. Clarence Asbey and wife are with Charley Shay’s New Quincumplexal Shows, producing their living models on a monster elevated revolving platform. It is one of the features of the show. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 2.
    Prof. Clarence Ashey(?) and wife are with Charley Shay's New Quinccomplexal Shows, producing their living models on a monster elevated revolving platform. It is one of the features of the show. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 214.
    Wanted, for Charley Shay's 5 United Shows. Troupe of performing ponies, trick mules and trained dogs, goats and monkeys; also room for few more good performers and concert people. Will buy two good performing ponies and two good trick mules. Wire quick as per route. . . . New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 260.
    Charley Shay's New Quincuplexal Shows, Oriental Circus and Spectacular Pantomime of "Old Mother Goose" opened it season June 8, at Cincinnati, O., to a reported large audience. They have a 100ft. round top, with three __ft. middle pieces and 30x60 dressing room top, a large stage, handsomely fitted up with special trick scenery and all the latest inventions to produce the spectacular pantomime of "Old Mother Goose," introducing a fine ballet. Roster of the New Quincuplexal: Charley Shay, sole proprietor; Edward P.(F.?) Boyd, treasurer; T. McDonald, advance representative, with six assistants; Edwin Martinnetti(?), esquestrian and general manager; Maurice Martinnetti, assistant director. . . . Performers: Edwin Martinnetti, Maurice Martinnetti, Ralph Martinnetti, Marie Martinnetti, Edward Guthrie, Robert Peasley, Ida Guthrie, Harry Sparrow . . . Mr. and Mrs. Ashton, Maud Muller, Guthrie Bros., Mr. and Mrs. James Walker . . . Stella Shay, William Hart's Dog and Monkey Circus . . . La Bell Helene, Flora De Leers and Sig. Ex(?) Panosa, Mons. Celeste, Prof. Freelander, with his troupe of ten performing stallions and donkeys, and Prof. Williams' Silver Cornet Band of ten pieces. This show will travel by rail with its own special train, consisting of one 60ft. sleeper, three 40ft. flat cars, and two 40ft. box cars. They report all well and in the best of spirits, with a fine season's prospects. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 268.
    On the road, circuses: Chas. Shay's, Cincinnati, O. June 22-2?, Cynthia, Ky. 2?, Paris 30, Frankfort July 1, Lexington 2-4. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
    On the road, circuses: Chas. Shay's, Frankfort, Ky. July 1, Lexington 2-4. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
    Chas. Shay's show has disbanded. Prof. Clarence As?ey writes from South Bend, Ind., complaining of a deal of unprofessional treatment at the hands of Manager Shay. Salaries, board bills, etc. are said to remain unpaid. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.

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Shedman Bros. - 1893-94

    1893: Shedman Bros.' Kuno-Drome. Wanted, man to do outside wire ascension. One that can do wire juggling act inside preferred. Show opens at Emporium, Pa., June ??. Long engagement.Show goes South. Address Shedman Bros., Emporium, Pa. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 244.
    1893: Shedman Bros.' Kuno Drome opened at Emporium, Pa., June 20 to good business and made Dubois, the next stand, and put up in wind and rain, but played to good houses for three days. One of Shedman's performing dogs died at Emporium on the first day, and at Dubois the large boa constrictor in the museum and Shedman's favorite monkey died. Additions to the museum include the Casalnovas(?), tattooed people, and Prof. Lew Wallace and his Punch and Judy. In the big show Jos. Rachy(?), wire ascensionist, joined; also Zenes(?), who swallows swords, bayonets, etc. Everything is brand new with the show and the new canvas keeps out the heavy rains. The show travels by rail and will be at Bradford, Pa., July 4. A feature in the procession, headed by Prof. Dodd's brass band, are Shedman's twenty dogs in line, decorated with ribbons and beautiful bespangled trappings. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
    1893: On the road, miscellaneous: Shedman Bros., Buffalo NY July __, indefinite. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: From the Shedman Bros.' Show. The show remains the same as when we started out. The roster: W. S. Shedman, Mrs. W. S. Shedman, Geo. W. Shedman, seventeen trained dogs, including a string of imported leaping greyhounds; Jim Cassady(Cassidy?); Lew Wallace, manager of museum; George W. Price, assistant manager . . . Rose Shedman, Lew Wallace, Le Seurdo, Joe Robie, Mike Cassidy . . . Charles Adams, George Robinson, William Rider . . . All the fore part of the season was dull and the show was behind, but for the past six weeks we have been doing a winning business, and have played ourselves out of a bad hole. This show won't close. We will either go to California or to South America, which route will be determined on our arrival at Charleston, S.C. We caught the southern hurricane at Frederick, Md., Oct. 13(?) and had to drop all our canvas about nine o'clock. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 545.
    1893: Shedman Bros.' Show continues to good business, and will be enlarged Nov. 13, by putting in a middle piece. The Grace Shannon Balloon Co. will join the show on that date, consisting of man, woman and dog aeronauts, all three descending at one time from one balloon. William K. Rider is business manager, and Harry Myers is in advance of the show. The museum has been taken away from the big show and will be run as a sideshow. New York Clipper, November 11, 1893, p. 579.
    1893: Lew Wallace, who has been with the Shedman Bros. Show all summer, left Nov. 9(?) for Arkansas, to join his partner, Capt. O. White. New York Clipper, November 18, 1893, p. 592.
    1893: Shedman Bros.' Show is doing a fair business through South Carolina. Mr. Myers was discouraged at the outlook in Florence, S.C., and did not bill it, and went to Sumpter(?) instead. . . . The Spark's Circus is following us close, but their agent has not caught us yet; he may, though, at Sumpter, as we shall be there a full week. After that we shall go to Charleston, S.C., and fit up a building to exhibit the dogs and monkeys for an unlimited time. We ___ there seven weeks last season; three weeks will possibly be enough this season. Harry M. Myers has signed for one year, to take charge of the business with the big show to open in Elizabeth City, N.C., about March 20(?). The show will be enlarged next season, using an 80ft. round top with a 40ft. middle piece. All new designs for printing will be gotten up, and will use a new ___ sheet and ___ new lithographs. Prof. Shedman is busy breaking in eight new dogs and ___ monkeys. Will use thirty dogs in all and five trained monkeys. Among those engaged are Harry Myers, general manager . . . James Adams . . . G. W. Shedman, clown, and M?? W. S. Shedman. A concert will be given and side show run by the company. The show will open at Edenton(?) N. C. about March 1?, and travel Northwest into ___ then East through Canada. New York Clipper, December 16, 1893, p. 659.

    1894: Shedman Bros.' Kuno-Drome close season at New ___, N.C., and ship to Elizabeth City, N.C., where they will open with a much larger show about March 17, and will have side show and concert in connection with their show. Admission to big show will be 25 cents. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 810.
    1894: W. S. Shedman, of the Shedman Bros., has bought some property at Elizabeth City, N.C., and will make that place the headquarters of their enterprises in the future. Contracts will be made for new buildings, which are to be finished by June 1. They will start their show from Elizabeth City April 2(?), giving a twenty-five cent ring show, with concert and sideshow. . . . New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 37.
    1894: The Shedman Bros. have secured the Pardo Family, bicycle riders, for their circus for the coming season, and have signed W. S. Maguire as general agent in advance. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 53.
    1894: Wanted, freaks of nature. Also, man and wife to work illusions. Man must do Punch, lady to handle snakes. Also extra heavy fat woman. And other attractions for Shedman Bros.' Kuno Drome and Side Show, and side show paintings. Address Six Pardos, care Reilly & Wood's Big Show, Baltimore, Md. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 76.
    1894: Wanted, Shedman Bros.' Kuno-Drome, a few more performers, working agent, man for outside ascension, must do act inside; Punch and Judy, etc. for sideshow. May to run same on sharing terms. Will buy some second hand tights, also want a sleeper. Address Shedman Bros., Elizabeth City, N.C. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 141.

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Shelby's - 1888

    Shelby's New Great Golden Shows . . . Messrs. Shelby & McArty [At Kellogg, July 27] Kellogg (IA) Enterprise, July 27, 1888.

    Shelby's circus was wrecked by a windstorm at Odell, Ill. a few days ago, during the afternoon performance. The tent was blown down and fifteen persons were injured. Wellsboro Agitator (Wellsboro, PA), July 3, 1888. Information should be checked with additional sources

    Shelby's New Great Golden Railroad Shows. Museum, menagerie, aquarium, aviary, elebated stage and two ring circus. Traveling on its own special train of silver palace cars. Connellsville, August 30. Male and female equestrians, comical clowns, queens of the air, bareback champions, glorious gymnasts. Performing horses, ponies, donkeys, mules, dogs, goats, monkeys, leaping grayhounds and funny clown dogs. The Great Decomas, aerial bicylists and gymnasts. Two ring. Elephant "Zip." Free street parade. Admission 25 and 50 cents. The Courier (Connellsville, PA), August 24, 1888.

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Sherman, Snodgrass & Co. - 1892

    Sherman, Snodgrass & Co.'s Trained Animal Exposition. Open at Plain City, O., May 11, 1892. We carry 80ft. R. T., two 30ft. M. P., fourteen wagons, forty head of horses, herd of educated goats, troupe of performing dogs, twelve head of performing horses and a dock of trained sheep. Side show consists of a 40x60 top, long mane horse, petrified woman, Sharpless, magician, and Verno, juggler. Wanted band of seven pieces, double in orchestra. Concert people. Boss canvas man, two clowns that can double in concert. Address Prof. W. Sherman, manager. P.S. Candy stand privilege for rent. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 141. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.

Shield's - 1890

    The following is the roster of the Shields Show: J. H. Shields, proprietor and manager; J. Oliver, advance; Will Evans and six assistants, billposters; King Bros., acrobats; Artie Shields, tight wire; William Batcheller, principal leaper; the Ty Bells, balancing perch and ladders; Melvin and Trover, double bars; a line of eight leapers, two doing doubles, and the following in the concert: Morris and Raymond, Mamie Elliot and the Elliott Bros. A band of six is led by Prof. Smith. Coal Oil Johnnie is boss canvasman with eleven assistants. Ben Parker attends to the lights. The show opened Jan. 1 at Jacksonville, Fla. New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 732.
    On the Road: J. H. Shield's, Key West, Fla., Jan 27-Feb. __. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 773.
    Notes from J. H. Shield's Great Southern Show. We opened at Jacksonville, Fla., Jan. 1 and turned them away every day for ten days . . . Diavola Bros. . . . The Ty Bells' aerial act is a big act everywhere. The King Brothers are doing some ___ leaping. Melvin and Trover's grotesque table act . . . Artie(?) Shield, on the tight rope, attracts large crowds to the lot. . . . Floyd Trover is organizing a fishing party for next week, and anticipates some fine sport along the coast. We sail from Port Tampa for Key West, where we stay three weeks. We are having fine weather, and everybody is enjoying the sunny South. The ghost perambulates every Wednesday. . . . Everybody is anticipating a fine time at Key West, and all are going prepared to enjoy themselves. New York Clipper, February 1, 1890, p. 781.
    Notes from J. H. Shield's Southern Show. We arrived at Key West by steamer from Tampa, Fla., Feb. 4(?). The trip was a very pleasant one and nobody was sick. We opened to the largest ___ of the season, having to close the doors half an hour before the performance. The tent was packed to the edge of the ring, and the show went unusually well. The King Bros., Melvin and Trover, and the Ty Bells made pronounced hits. . . . Harry King is practicing a new dancing rope act for next season. ___ Ty Bell was presented by his wife, Violetta Ty Bell, with an elegant diamond stud Feb. ?, and he reciprocated with a fine silk dress. . . . New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 806.
    Wanted, for Shields' Southern Shows, people in all branches of the business except riders, write to Macon, Ga. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 44.
    Notes from J. H. Shields' Southern Show. We are touring South Carolina on our way North. The weather continues cool, and business is good. Senator Frank Le Ray, juggler and equilibrist, joined at Augusta, Ga., March 2?, and does a fine act. Gay(?) Boone joined at Savanah . . . Trover and King's still delight the colored contingent with their grotesque table act. . . . The Ty Bells are as popular as ever, and have a strong ___ of leaps. Prof. Riley and his troupe of performing dogs will be added about April 1?. Everybody is well, and the "white German" sneaks around regularly. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 75.
    The Ty Bells closed with the Shields' Show April __ at Augusta, Ga., and are taking a brief rest at their Chicago home before opening for the season with Hunting's New York Circus. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
    Notes from J. H. Shield's Southern Show. We are still playing to good business through Georgia. The weather continues fine. . . . Fred Trover bar performer; Harry King, acrobat; and Fran Le Ray, juggler, have joined hands. They will be known as Trover, King and Le Ray, and are now practicing a new triple act. Julian Ty Bell and wife were called home last month on account of illness of the latter's mother. . . . Floyd Trover has charge of the dressing room. The ghost makes regular weekly appearance, and all are well. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.

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Edward Shipp's - 1890-91, 1903-04

    1890: News from Shipp's Winter Circus. Business is on the increase. A novelty act goes from our place next season. Mrs. Jordan has accomplished the remarkable feat of turning a double somersault from a trapeze, being caught by her husband on an opposite trapeze. Ed. Shipp and wife (Julia Lowande) go with the Ringling Bros.' Show next season; Toto Siegrist, rider, with John McMahon; the Jordans, aerialists, with the Wallace & Anderson Shows; George Wilson, rider, with the Rogers Show. Every one here is well, and all enjoyed a merry Christmas. New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
    1890: Shipp's Winter Circus opened its season under flattering auspices at Petersburg, Ill., Dec. 1. This is its fourth year in that city. The people are Josie Ashton . . . Frank Ashton, W. S. Wheelr and others. Four shows a week are given. New York Clipper, December 20, 1890, p. 651.

    1891: Edward Shipp reports excellent business with his winter circus. Claude La Verne, Adair Bros. and Dot Adair joined recently. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
    1891: Omaha, Nebraska. Shipp & Ashton's Circus began an engagement at the Coliseum 13(?) to fair business. . . . New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 786.
    1891: Edward Shipp closed his Winter circus at Petersburg, Ill., Feb. 3(?), and opened at Omaha, Neb., 12(?), with the company under the title of Shipp & Ashton's New York Circus. They are playing at the Coliseum, which will seat 8,000(?) people. The company is made up as follows: Julia Lowande and Josie Ashton, bareback equestriennes; Edward Shipp, bounding jockey; Herr Drayton, modern Hercules; Adair Bros. . . . Claude Laverne; Dot Adair and Frank Ashton. The company have five(?) head of ring horses, and report business is good. They will return to Petersburg, where they will play the balance of the season. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
    1891: Manager Edward Shipp writes from Petersburg, Ill.: "I will close my Winter Circus bere March __. This is my fourth season running a Winter Circus here in my ring barn, and business has been much larger than during any previous season. Myself and wife Julia Lowande, are engaged with the Sturtevant & Holland Show for the coming season. I have two well broken bareback horses, which we will use in our several acts next season." New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.

    1903: "Shipp's Indoor Circus . . . Mr. Shipp himself is an old performer, though he now devotes his attention to the work of management. His first experience in the show business was in 1879, with Harry G. Lambkin's mammoth vaudeville company, on of the first traveling variety shows. He was with Cooper & Jackson's circus and menagerie seasons of '81, '82 and '83. During 1882(?) they made Texas and the northern part of Old Mexico, and took to that country the first elephant the Mexicans had ever seen. For the next three years they toured the West Indies and the Isthmus of Panama, giving a special performance before Ferdinand de Lesseps, the Panama canal promoter. Several of the company died in the Isthmus of yellow fever. They visited also the British and Duthc Guiana and the coast towns of Venezuela. In addition to this, Mr. Shipp has traveled in all the provinces of Canada and every state in the union. In 1891 and 1892 he was with Orrin Brothers' circus in Mexico, and appeared several times before President Diaz.
    "For fourteen years he was with Ringling Brothers' world's greatest shows, starting with them in the early days when they traveled by wagon, and never thought of making a town of over 3,000 in population. He and Al Ringling have ridden for hours in the mud and rain, and walked up many a steep hill to give the tired horses less work. What was he doing all this time? Oh, riding bareback and doing a jockey act. He was the first bareback rider the Ringlings ever had.
    "During his first visit to Old Mexico he fell in a bounding jocky act at Vera Cruz and broke his left leg just below the knee. Two years afterward in this country he broke the same leg, which accident put him out of the ring. He has been assistant equestrian director with the Ringling for several years, and the coming season will be with the Forepaugh-Sells Bros.' show as equestrian manager, the season opening at Columbus, Ohio . . .
    "None the less interesting is the history of Mrs. Shipp, who is known professionally by her maiden name, Julia Lowande. Together with her brothers, Alex and Cecil, she comes of a family of equestrians known the world over. Alexander Lowande Sr., their father, was born in Boston in 1821, and was the first man to take an American circus to Brazil. He was a heavy property owner in that country, and a personal friend of the emperor, Dom Pedro. During the winter of 1865 he came to America with his own company, known as Lowande's Brazilian circus. During his stay in Brazil, he married twice and raised large families of children. The mother of the trio who have been seen here is his third wife, and was born at Kingston, Island of Jamacia. She now resides at Petersburg, and cares for the ten-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Shipp while they are away.
    "L. F. Sunlin lives in Grand Rapids, Mich. He has been in the show business 2? years, all the time in the trained animals' act. The bull which he had here is seven years old. The principal act is the pedestal act, the pedestal being six inches square, and the animal mounting it with his four feet. The animal does several trick acts which no trick horse has ever done.
    "Phil King lives in Cleveland, Ohio, and has been in the show business for 17 years. He was one of the King Bros., as acrobats until 1902, when he fell and broke his left shoulder, which disable him for a long time. He invented the revolving ladder act, which gave good satisfaction during his stay here, the only aerial talking act in America today. For six years he was one of the laughing features of Ringling Bros.' circus. He is 33 years old and will play this season in parks and fairs. Since King has been on the ladder comedy, he has had many imitators, but he still leads them all.
    "George Zammert, fourteen years at it, lives in Cincinnati, the home of the Prince of Pilsen, and plays this year with the Da Coma family at parks and fairs. He has been with the Ringling Bros., as a clown, for the past eight years. He is now an understander of the Da Coma family in acrobatic work. His work is first class and he is a genial fellow to meet.
    "Eddie De Van, who lives in Philadelphia, has been in the business 18 years, and is the youngest double somersault leaper over animals in the world. He is 24 years old, and is the middle man with the Da Coma Family. He is the trick ground tumbler.
    "George Hartzell has been in the show business for 22 years, beginning when he was a small boy. His home is in Philadelphia. He goes with Ringling Bros. this season. He has been with all the big shows in the world and his work is first class, never failing to please the audience. His part on the revolving ladder with King is worthy of special mention. The old practice of telling stories and singing songs has been relegated and the mechanical style is given. Prince, the trick dog, is a wonder. He performs his part in the ring as faithfully as any member of the company. Hartzell's work as a clown is pronounced among the best of his class.
    "Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Carroll are both old time circus people. Mr. Carroll is treasurer for Mr. Shipp during his winter term, but next season will play the steam calliope for the Barnum & Bailey show, which opens in Madison Square Garden, New York city, March 10. Mr. Carroll has been in the show business for 15 years, and Mrs. Carroll ever since she was 2 1/2 years old. Formerly she was one of the Stirk family, bicycle riders. Their home is in Petersburg, Ill. Mrs. Carroll does her part well on the tight wire, performing some new tricks of her own. She performs with flying rings to the pleasure of all her audience. Her work is the best of the kind ever seen here. They have a 16-months-old baby which is here with them, but which stays with its grandmother during the circus season. Mrs. Carroll will, of course, accompany her husband with the Barnum & Bailey show.
    "Mr. Da Coma lives in Cincinnati. He, however, owns a fine farm in Kentucky and spends as much of his time there as possible. He has a regular gymnasium built and some of his best feats are originated there. He has been in the show business since 1816(?). This season the Da Coma family, eight in number, are the premier acrobats of the world. For eight years they were with the Ringling Bros. in a special act. They are the first people ever to introduce the somersault 'up and down, three high.' They will play at parks and fairs during the coming season.
    "Lon Moore, a first class clown, has been in the business fifteen years. His home in Defiance, Ohio, and he goes with the Wallace show the coming season. For five years he was with the John Robinson show. He made is debut in clown work in West India islands several years ago. He is a good fellow wherever you see him.
    "Art Adair, clown, lives in Chicago, and has been a clown for twenty years. He goes with the Barnum show the coming season. Mr. Adair is an acrobatic performer and works in some good things. His girl leap over animals, raising a parasol, raises much mirth, also his barber show. He is an accomplished musician and is a good man in any show on or off the stage, being a performer on a number of instruments.
    "The Hobsons go with Ringling Bros. the coming season. Mr. Hobson comes of an old show family. His brothers have a show of their own and are traveling in the south at the present time. The Hobsons do a double carrying act and a double jockeying act, and they do them to perfection.
    "Cecil and Alex Loande, brothers, have been in the show business all their lives. Their home is in Petersburg, Ill. Cecil is 26(?) years old and his special act is bareback riding, turning the backward somesault while the horse is running. He goes with Gollmar Bros. Alex Lowande, bareback rider, does a backward somersault. His mule hurdle takes well and he is a good acrobat. Next season he gose with Forepaugh & Sells Bros. Both of these boys are brothers of Mrs. Shipp and are the best of fellows." Cedar Rapids (IA) Sunday Republican, February 1, 1903, p. 5.

    1904: "Dangers in Circus Life. Some of Shipp's People Tell Their Experiences . . . A Gazette reporter dropped into the Auditorium yesterday while the various members of Shlpp's Indoor Circus company were at their daily practice, work that is studiously and almost religiously gone through with each day, no matter where they are. The performers had just completed setting the runway for the leaps under the supervision of Peter Bell, the double somesaultist. Much care is used in the erection of this runway, as the slightest deviation from the established way of setting would subject the performers to a bad fall. In order to accomplish a successful somersault, the performer must hit the board at just a certain angle and by doing this he gets the best lift and this enables him to go the proper distance and at the same time control his body. To be a good leaper requires years of practice and then an unstinted supply of nerve. Mr. Peter Bell, - who is at present with the Shipp show, has had a long and varied experience in this line and some of his stories are thrilling. Mr. Bell hails originally from Italy, where he was for several years a permanent member of Circo Pagini. He began leaping with this aggregation and at an early age he accomplished for the first time the double somersault, which at that time was considered an impossibility. He toured all over the continent and then came to this country for the great Barnum & Bailey circus at a handsome salary.
    "Circus vs. Mechanics. Rather a strange comparison. There are tricks of all trades, but some are much harder to master than others and the different branches of circus business are all separate and distinct and all have their secrets and systems. For instance, the difference between performing in an aerial act and in an acrobatic act is as great as that of the trades of the carpenter and the blacksmith. Both must be learned and with a system and understanding, as the public calls for tricks in this present day and age that are much more hazardous than in the early days of the circus. Mr. Da Coma, the elder member of the Da Coma family, cited cases of where many good performers, in days gone by, had met their fate through neglect or failure to properly learn and understand the trick they were about to perform. Probably the most dangerous vocation around a circus is that of the aeriallsts. but Mr. Da Coma boasts with pride that no member of his troupe has at any time met with a single mishap and he attributes all this to a minute attention to the detail of his rigging and his years of experience in handling big aerial acts. His wife, Rose Da Coma, is considered the most daring and accomplished lady aerialist in the world, and this is saying a great deal, as it holds this title to an American born and bred. The Da Comas' act consists of what is known as a return act in which the elder Da Coma hangs on a trapeze and catches the various somersaults that his wife makes through the air and he then throws her back to her orignal leaping place.
    "In case of a fall or miscalculation, they have a large net spread to catch the leaper and it is in this event that so many of the best performers have met their fate. Probably the most prominent and one that is still fresh in the minds of circus folks is the case of Bobby Hanlon, a member of the Hanlon family, who fell into a net and struck on his forehead and was instantly killed while performing an identical trick that the lady member of the DaComa family is performing this week. Dave Hawley and Art Mohring met similar fates and countless performers of lesser fame have given their lives to this peculiar vocation but Mr. Da Coma has so studied the art that he claims a serious accident to be an impossibilty and surely to witness his performance would convince the most skeptical. The conclusion of his act, which is professionally known as a casting act, is awe-inspiring to the extreme. The younger member of the troupe is thrown from one end if the ring to the other in all manners of shapes and invariably lands back to the hands of the elder to acknowledge the plaudits of the spectators. This little artist hails from California and has been associated with Mr. Da Coma for three years. His name is Ernest Clorie and Mr. Da Coma predicts a great future for him as he is particularly apt and bright and finds real pleasure in his aerial flights. He has already established himself a favorite with the children, here.
    "A Russian Bear and Man. All the world is a stage but John Ponsol, one of the principal actors with the circus, has a part that not many of us would care to be cast for. The work is too hard and the responsibilities too many. John don't mind it though. He has come to regard it as a part of his life. Imagine having to stand up and wrestle and lock arms with a big Russian bear standing six and one-half feet high. That's the part he has played for the past twelve years. "Sig.," as the boys around the circus call him, started as an animal trainer years ago. It comes to him naturally, as his father. Peter Ponsol, was one of the most famous trainer's of wild animals in Europe and, 'Sig,' then only a boy, took to them as a duck takes to water and at an early age had charge of all the animals with the famous Hagenbeck animal show, which was touring the continent. Among the animals were a pair of Russian bears and one fine morning all the keepers and helpers were summoned to see the baby bear that had been, born during the night. Sig Ponsol was the only one of the keepers that the ferocious mother bear would let near the huge cage, where they were imprisoned, and when the cub was big enough to handle Sig assumed a general control which he holds to this day. He has taught ths bear to perform all manners of tricks and their wrestling bout is very realistic as Mr. Bruin has a way of squeezing that may be friendly but doesn't feel very friendly, as Sig Ponsol expressed it, Mr. Bruin's diet is very dainty. It comprises of eight pounds of raw meat every evening after the performance, also numerous handsful of apples, sugar and other deserts and we are informed further by the genial Sig. that he has no hankering for little boys so all the children are safe.
    "Mr. Shipp and his excellent company will be seen the balance of the week at the Auditorium and the prospects are that the building will be crowded with circus parties to witness the delightful performance." Cedar Rapids (IA) Evening Gazette, January 27, 1904, p. 7.

Shott Bros. Olympia Shows - 1900

    Played West Virginia in May. Billboard, June 9, 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 the persons.

Shreve, Phillips & Michie - 1892

    Wanted, a partner with $500 capital to put on a first class wagon show in the West. I will put up more than dollar for dollar. Will have to have a partner, as I cannot be with the show all the time myself. Open May 1(?). I have sixteen(?) head of fine horses already on hand. Prof. Lowanda, Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 838.
    Wanted, for Shreve, Michie & Phillips' 3 Consolidated Wild West Shows. A talking and singing clown and people in all branches of circus business. Open April __. Write Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 853.1892: Wanted, for Shreve, Michie & Phillips' 3 Mammoth Consolidated Shows. Leapers, tumblers, gymnasts, aerial ___ of all kinds. Riders and musicians who play brass and string. Also a good troupe of trained dogs. Would like about 4 good Japanese who do juggling and aerial acts, a good canvas man, 4 and 6 horse drivers. Sideshow and other privileges to let, candy stands. Would like to buy about ___ cages of animals, one elephant and ___ camels, and a good round top canvas for menagerie. This show will open April ___. Shreve, Michie & Phillips' 3 Consolidated Shows, Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, February 27, 1892, p. 853.
    Wanted, boss canvasman and assistants, musicians who play brass, sideshow people and performers in all branches of circus business. Also want a man to take charge of sideshow. Address Shreve, Phillips & Michie, Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 47.
    Call. All performers, musicians, canvasmen, grooms, teamsters and sideshow people engaged for Shreve, Phillips & Michie's Three Consolidated Shows report at Hurley, So. Dakota, not later that April 2?. No Sunday trains to Hurley. Would like to hear from one more good double trapeze team. Shreve, Phillips & Michie. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 62.
    Notes from Shreve, Phillips & Michie's Shows. W. A. Edwards has resigned as business manager of the ___ Novelty Co., to accept a position as general agent for the above shows. We open our season at Hurley, S.D., April 26(?); travel by wagon . . . Roster: Shreve, Phillips & Michie, sole proprietors; W. A. Edwards, general agent, with five assistants; Prof. Lowanda, general director . . . John Sargent, boss hostler; Chas. W. Cardello, Pete Rogan and wife, Madame Lowanda, W. B. Cook and wife . . . J. F. Howard, Prof. Robt. Scott, C. W. Myers, ___ and Gorman, Baughman and Jenkins, J. F. Wilcox, Fred McM?ster, C. J. Fay, Clark and ___, Harry Austin and wife, Chauncey Powell, Norton Bros., Dock Hickey(?) in charge of sideshow, and band of twelve pieces under the direction of Prof. C. E. Taft. We travel North and South Dakota. There is a reunion of ___ here on our opening day, and already we have sold four hundred seats of the opening. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 82.
    Wanted, for Shreve, Phillips & Michie's Circus, contracting agent, also ten more musicians. Performers and sideshow people. Address Shreve, Phillips & Michie, Hurley, South Dakota. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 92.

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Bert Silver Family Shows - 1910, 1916

    The Bert Silver Family Shows closed their tenting season of seventeen weeks, September 3, at Alma, Mich., and are now at headquarters, Crystal, Mich. The tent will be enlarged for the next season by the addition of another middle piece. Thirty-five people, fifteen wagons and cars, and thirty head of horses will be carried. Billboard, October 22, 1910.

    Bert C. E. Silver, born December 9, 1860 at Fowler, New York. His father, Dick Silver, had a minstrel show in New York. When Bert was 35, he organized his first shows. He had a variety of shows, including the Silver Family Concert Company, Silver Family Swiss Bell Ringers and Concert Company, Silver Brosther's Circus, and Silver Family Circus. In 1916 he had two traveling circuses on the road in Michigan, one with 36 people, 40 horses and the other with 52 people, 5 trucks with trailers and 12 cars. The latter claimed to be the first circus to travel exclusively by motor trucks and cars. Boxoffice, March 7, 1936, p. 44.

    1935: Bert Silver's Reconstructed Theatre Formally Opened. Greenville, Mich. Bert Silver, one of the oldest exhibitors in the United States, and a showman for 65 years, held the formal opening of his New Silver Theatre here. Bert, of an old circus and show family, continued his shows here during the building of the new theatre, in a tent. Bert is listed as president and treasurer of the New Silver, with H. Bob Martin, his son-in-law, vice-president, and Mrs. Martin, his daughter, as secretary. Boxoffice, August 31, 1935, p. 14. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.

Sinclair's London Shows - 1893-94

    1893: Sinclair's London Shows will have all new wagons next season, the contract to furnish the same having been awarded. The wagons will be built in such a manner as to provide comfortable and ??? sleeping apartments for the canvasmen. Every inch of canvas, incluing the big top, animal top, dressing top, sideshow top, horse tents and Hotel De Sinclair, will be brand new and made to Mr. Sinclair's order. All the harness and parade trappings are now being made and promise to be an innovation in that line. New York Clipper, November 18, 1893, p. 595.

    1894: Sinclair's London Shows want people in every branch of the circus business. Nelson Sinclair, ???? Penna. Ave. Baltimore, Md. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 64.
    1894: Prof. L. F. Tidler's band and orchestra has been engaged for Sinclair's London Shows. The band consists of the following musicians: E. F. Tidler, L. W. Windel, . . . and F. M. Prince. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 103.

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Sipes Dog & Pony Show - 1900

    Opened at Frankfort, Indiana, August [sic?] 15 (fair date). Maxwell writes that a second consignment of monkeys arrived May 16. He says that the cages are all done and that Wallace's painter is now at work on them. Billboard, May 28, 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 the persons.

Skerbeck Family - 1892

    Wanted, for the Skerbek Family Wagon Show, people in all branches of the circus business for every department. Also want to buy a second hand band wagon and uniforms. Address Frank Skerbek, Dorchester, Wis. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 108.
    On the road, miscellaneous: Skerbeck Family, Weyawega, Wis. June 1, Manawa 2, New London 3, Hortonville 4, Appleton 6, Kaukauna 7, Brillion 8, Manitowoc 9. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
    Wanted for Sherbeck Circus, performers to double in concert. Frank Sherbeck, as per route. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 204.
    On the road, miscellaneous: Skerbeck Family, Brillion, WI June 8, Manitowoc 9. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
    The Skerbeck Family Circus closed their season Oct. _. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.

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Skiff's - 1891

    Skiff's Allied Mastodon Shows, Circus, Museum, Trained Animals, Japanese Festival Roman Hippodrome and Gorgeous Spectacular Pantomime Southern Tour. Call. All parties engaged will report at Cincinnati Nov. 12(?). Wanted immediately, a few more first class performers to strengthen show. Lady riders. Also trained horses, ponies, dogs and animals of all kinds. Musicians for No. 2 band and good leader. Any kind of show property cheap for cash. Address Manager Skiff, Hotel Emery, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 578.
    Chas. Andress has signed as general manager of Skiff's Allied Shows, opening Nov. 1?, for a tour of the South. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 593.
    1891: Chas. Andress has postponed his plans for taking out the Skiff Circus from Cincinnati until next Spring. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 616.

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Smith & Door's Robinson's Show - 1892

    Roster of Robinson's Combined Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition. Smith & Dorr, proprietors; Mrs. Josie Dorr and troupe of trained dogs, Wm. Dorr's troupe of trained ponies, Bowen Bros., gymansts; Smith Children, aerialists; Harry Silvester, juggler; Kid Wilson, singing clown . . . C. H. Edelstine, boss canvasman, with ten assistants; Jack Hemingway, chandeliers; and John Wentworth, boss hostler. Prof. Lew Cole has the sideshow. The show travels by rail, making one day stands. . . . balloon ascensions daily. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
    Robinson's Combined Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition, traveling through Southern Missouri, report good business. The roster: Smith & Door, proprietors; William Dorr, equestrain director; Josie Dorr . . . Lillie La Rue, William Dorr, Sam Wright, Will Howard, Smith Bros., Harry Robinson, Maud Milford, Belle Sinclair, Floyd Rowe, Jim Kimball, Prof. Will Marshall, with a band of ten pieces. The sideshow is run by Lew Cole, door solicitor; Prof. Higgs, Punch and Judy and sleight of hand; the big Missouri snake, sacred owl face monk, performing ape, Brazilian gravedigger, etc. The ghost perambulates every week. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
    1892: Robinson's Combined Shows are now in Illinois. We put in the Fourth at Crystal City, Mo., to the banner business of the season. Sam Wright, our balloonist, made a splendid trip to the clouds. He was carried some six miles before reaching native soil. The show laid over one day at St. Louis. The boys had their Fourth there. Some invested in new clothes. Mrs. Dorr, our treasurer, was presented with a gold neck chain by the performers. We play Illinois one month, then go back to Missouri. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
    1892: Wanted, for the Robinson Trained Animal Show, performers in all branchs except riders, must do two or more acts. Also concert people, man and wife preferred. Address Bushnell(?), Ill. manager Robinson's Show. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 336.

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Smith & Fralando's - 1891

    Ed. Fralando's Great British Show will have a new 110ft. round top, with a 50ft. middle piece, next season. The show is being ___ up in fine shape. A looking lass band chariot and five handsome cages are being built. The show will tour Dakota, Minnesota and Wisconsin. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
    Cliff Ingraham's Golden Cornet Band has signed with Fralando's Great British Shows of the tenting season of 1891. Several new features have been recently added. Smith & Fralando's Great Winter Carnival Spectacular "Humpty Dumpty" Co. have closed the season, and Mr. Fralando is busy getting his circus in shape for the coming season . . . New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
    Wanted for Fralando Bros.' Great British Shows. Performers in all branches of circus biz. Must do more than one turn. Also freaks for sideshow. We will pay spot cash for good second hand 80ft. round top, side show paintings, lights, &c. Privileges for sale. Address Ed Fralando, Manager, Mayville, North Dakota. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 814.
    Smith & Fralando's British Circus will open at LaCrosse, Wis. . . . The show will be as bright as a new dollar. The roster: Smith & Franlando, sole owners and managers . . . Emry H. Smith, assistant manager; Lew Nelson, advance agent, with eight assistants; Fisher, Will Howard, W. C. Duffy, Nickel Sisters, Harry Wesley, Eddie Crosby . . . Oregon Bros. . . . Master Charley . . . the Franch Family . . . Archie White . . . Lee and Robinson . . . and Cliff Ingraham's band of ten pieces. The show will travel by wagon, touring Wisconsin, Minnesota and Dakota. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
    Smith & Fralando's Great British Circus has done a big business ever since the opening. Jerry Keating and ___ recently joined. Ajax, the contortionist, is knocking them out with his acts. While taking a long drive from Spring Grove, Minn., to Houston, the band wagon was followed by a black bear, which was shot by one of the boys. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
    On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Faribault, Minn. May 28, Kilkenny 29, Montgomery 30, New Prague June 1, Caraver 2. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    Wanted, for Smith & Fralando's Great British Circus, two good serio comics and song and dance ladies for concert. Montgomery, Minn. June 1, New Prague, Minn. June 3(?). Sideshow privilege for sale. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 210.
    Notes from Smith & Fralando’s Great British Circus. We showed at Morristown, Minn., May 30, and after the afternoon performance we visited the grave of Daniel Scott, the old time showman, and decorated it with flowers. Ajax Jr. laid a beautiful wreath of lilies at the head of the grave. Ingraham’s Golden Band played a dirge to the departed showman, and Jerry Keeting made a few appropriate remarks, after which the boys visited the old deserted ring barn and animal quarters. All wrote or cut their names on the walls. The show travels by wagon, using a 110 ft. round top and two 50 ft. middle pieces. . . . The complete roster: Smith & Fralando, proprietors and managers; Ben De Pere, equestrian director; Emery Smith, treasurer; O. C. Olson, advance agent; Sidonia, Ajax Jr., Pollworth Bros., Le Roys, Howard and Yount, Mons. Testo, Chas. Ledegar, Sig. Rodella, Keeting and Harrigan, Kitty De Pere, Estes, Ellsworth Sisters, Mlle. Berrata, Mme. Fondo, Prof. Egg, F. B. Wilson, Geo. Rose, V. W. Ingraham, J. O. Wilson, E. S. Law, C. J. Carroll, M. D. Farnell, C. F. Ingraham, Hank Nelson, Ed. Gilbert, Chas. Lane, Lew Drake, Ed. Fatum, Lem Haliaird, C. Jackson. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
    The Smith & Fralando Great British Circus showed at Morton, Minn., June 15(?). The afternoon audience was composed largely of Indians from a nearby reservation. A tribe under Chief Good Thunder dined with the boys in the mess tent. After the show the Indians gathered around the lot, selling charms, tomahawks and other curios in the Wild West line. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
    On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Paynesville, Minn. July 1, New London 2, Delano 3, Watertown 4. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
    On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Fargo, N.D. Aug 7 . . . New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 347.
    On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Fargo, N.D. Aug 7 . . . Mayville 10 . . . New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 365.
    Smith & Fralando's Great British Circus is reported to be doing a big business in the Dakotas. It is showing in towns never before visited by a circus. William Curtice (Shakesperian clown), joined the show at Fargo, Dak. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
    On the road, circuses: Smith & Fralando's, Northwood, N.D. Aug 12, Larimore 13, Grafton 15, Winnipeg Man. 16. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 386.
    Notes from Smith & Fralando's British Circus. We closed our twelfth week at Fargo, N.D., Aug. 1, and have had a very successful trip thus far. Ed. Fralando was recently married to Nellie Woods, a professional, at Little Falls, Minn. . . . Curtis, song and dance man; W. Flow, clarionetist . . . Johnston, trap drummer. Ajax Jr., contortionist, has closed on account of ill health. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
    An unsigned communication has reached us stating that Smith & Fralando's Circus, under the management of C. J. Smith, collapsed at La Crosse, Wis., after an unprofitable two weeks' business. The letter also states that the manager left the town, leaving twenty or thirty men destitute, some of them five hundred miles from their home. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.

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E. G. Smith's - 1910

    E. G. Smith’s Colossal Shows and Trained Animal Exposition, after two seasons off the road, will again be on the road season 1911, opening the latter part of April. Mr. Smith has just returned to his home at Atwater, O., with two car loads of stock and circus equipment, which he purchased from a prominent Eastern circus. New tents will be purchased and a number of new parade wagons and cages will be built at winter quarters at Atwater. "Circus Gossip," Billboard, November 19, 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.

Snyder & Zimmerman's - 1892

    Snyder & Zimmerman's Fair Ground Show, No. 1, close this week at Harrisburg, Va., and their No. 2 show is at the Macon, Ga. Fair, and will tour the Southern fairs under the supervision of Prof. Hugo. Mr. Snyder left at once for New York to make arrangements for their Minstrel Carnival, and, judging from the many novelties they have in store, it will be a complete revolution of the minstrel business. The parade is something entirely new, and will be about six blocks long. Max Zimmerman will remain at Frederick, Md., and look after the interest of the show at that end of the line. The show opens Nov. 28(?), and will run until after the World's Fair, traveling in their own special cars, and playing only the larger towns.
    A serious wreck occurred on the Norfolk and Western Railroad Oct. 31, 1892, near Disputanta, Va., which was caused by the collision of two trains loaded with coal. Fourteen cars and a locomotive were wrecked, and Leonard Laporte, of Germantown, Pa., a trapeze performer of Snyder & Zimmerman's Circus was killed. John Fahan and Andrew Fahan, of Trenton, N.J., brothers, who were also trapeze performers with the same circus, were seriously, and perhaps fatally injured. 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.

C. O. Spangler Great Western Railroad Show - 1901, 1905-1906

    1901: Wanted, horses, wagons, band and ticket wagon, ponies, dogs, monkeys, seats and reserved seats, horse tent. Anything that can be used for circus. Spangler Bros. Great Western Show. ???, Perry Co., Pa. New York Clipper, November 30, 1901, p. 872.

    Notice, Dr. C. O. Spangler's Indian Medicine Co., Millerstown, Pa. Has opened a branch office in Marietta, Ohio. Parties wishing to handle my remedies and performers wishing work, write Dr. C. O. Spangler, Marietta, Ohio. New York Clipper, October 31, 1903, p. 862.

    1905: Oliphant, July 30. [Pennsylvania] The Spanglers' Great Western Show gave two performances here Friday. They had some of the finest stock that ever traveled with a circus, and they gave a good parade that was almost a half mile in length. The performers were fine, especialy the trick horses. They left here for West Virginia. Daily Courier (Connellsville, PA), July 31, 1905, p. 5. Wanted, all 'round performers and concert people, canvas man and cornet and tuba player. C. O. Spangler's Great Western Show, ??? Washington Co., Pa. New York Clipper, August 19, 1905, p. 651.

    1906: C. O. Spangler Great Western Railroad Show, now at Winter quarters, is getting ready for its new show. Everything will be new, with a larger tent, more seats, a better show and a larger band than last season. Everything is newly painted. The show will open in its own town April 25. New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114.
    Roster of Dr. C. O. Spangler's Big Medicine Co.: Dr. C. O. Spangler, manager; Mrs. C. O. Spangler, characters; Edna Mae Spangler, soubrette; Eugene Spangler, buck and wing dancer; Grace B. La Monte, pianist and ingenue; Jesse Aikens, contortionist and Spanish ring act; Prof. Juillette, character; Ed. Hale, black face comedian; Harry De Castor, pyramid and trapeze act. We are touring West Virginia in our own private car. Prof. Eugene, with his troupe of educated dogs, and Yan, the high diving dog is also with us. New York Clipper, December 22, 1906, p. 1165. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Sparks & Allen - 1890-92

    1890: Uniformly good business through Pennsylvania is the report from Allen's Great Eastern Circus, of which John H. Sparks is proprietor and manager. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 339.
    1890: Sparks Bros. & Allen's Circus closed its season at Butler, Pa., Oct. 2?, ending a prosperous tour of twenty-seven weeks. The show nearly doubled in size during its travels. Next season seven new cages of animals, a sideshow, new wagons and a calliope will be added to the outfit. New York Clipper, November 8, 1890, 558.
    1890: Wanted, circus performers, musicians, steam calliope player, trained animals, sideshow people, 12(?) billposters, and 2 good cooks for cook tents. . . . Third season opens April 16(?), '91. Wagon show for sale - one __ft. round top tent, side walls, ropes, etc., complete, no poles, made extra strength to order, and good as new [used] only three months. . . . One band wagon and other show property, cheap. Reason for selling. Everything will be new and show enlarged for '91. Address John H. Sparks, manager, Sparks & Allen's Circus, East Brady, Pa. New York Clipper, November 15, 1890, 574.
    1890: Wanted, for Sparks & Allen's Shows, Equine Paradox. Strong sensational acts (female preferred) and any novel acts, etc. that can be used in circus; performers doing two or more acts preferred. Address John H. Sparks, East Brady, Pa. New York Clipper, December 27, 1890, p. 670.

    1891: Manager John H. Sparks has purchased a lot of new cages for Sparks & Allen's Show. This promises to be one of the best wagon shows for the coming season, with new tents, wagons, etc., combined with an attractive spectacle. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 714.
    1891: George Hartell, clown . . . signed with Sparks & Allen's Circus . . . New York Clipper, January 31, 1891, p. 743.
    1891: John H. Sparks, of Sparks & Allen's Shows, has purchased of Walter L. Main five(?) of the latters best wagons, including the advance wagon. It is the intention to have three advertising and property wagons ahead of the show next season. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
    1891: The Belfords, George and Mollie, and Levay, the juggler, have signed with Sparks & Allen's Shows for next season. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
    1891: Allen & Co.'s Great Eastern Shows opened their season April 2? at East Brady, Pa. Fine weather favored the performances, and the tents were crowded both afternoon and evening. The roster: Allen & Co., proprietors; John H. Sparks, manager; C. R. Dougherty, secretary; W. A. Baxter, general agent; Harry Alger, in charge of advance brigade, with eight assistants; Prof. Chas. Gregory, equestrian director . . . George and Mollie Belford . . . Prof. Gregory . . . Belford Bros. . . . Prof. Allen; Mollie Belford; Harry Delmain; George Belford; George Hartzell; Walter Hall; Charles Gregory . . . Phil Apple; H. H. Wittier . . . B. Bowen . . . M. Wilder; G. Adams; G.(?) C. Bodley; A. Todd; W. Stradley . . . C. Sparks; Signor Nevarro; Mlle. Addie; Mlle. Edith; Wm. Turner; Tony White . . . Chas. Badger; Charlie Sparks; George O'Hart; Seeman and Burke; George Hartzell; Wm. Mitchell . . . Chas. Conway; Wm. Williamson . . . Joe Sheridan and James Kelly. The show uses . . . three horse tents and cook tent, and travels by wagons, using 70(?) head of horses. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 135.
    1891: Notes from the Allen Shows. Business for the first week has been more than satisfactory, Geo. Belford is making a hit in head balancing act on the trapeze. Chas. Gregory is also catching the audience with his dancing barrel act. Capt. Bartlett is one of the features of the street parade, giving exhibitions of fancy rifle shooting on the street. Manager John H. Sparks is making a hit with his clarinet solo which preceded the big show. Lowery and Madden, song and dance performers, joined April 28, and are a feature of the concerts. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
    1891: Wanted, quick. A1 cook, _ and 6 horse drivers, snakes, monkeys and A1 contortionist doing flying perch, etc. J. H. Sparks, manager, address Circus, Penfield, Pa., May 8, Du Bois 9. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 163.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sparks & Allen's, Roaring Springs, Pa. May 28, Martinsburg 29, Woodbury 30, Hopewell June 1, Saxton 2. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    1891: Notes from Sparks & Allen's Circus. This show has been doing a fine business since the opening. George Gregory joined June 9, at Mt. Holly Springs, Pa. He is working on the triple horizontal bars better than ever. His doubles from the bars make a great hit. He is working in connection with his brother Charles. Seeman and Burke made their first appearance in their new perch act, at Marietta, June 15(?), and scored an instantaneous hit. The Fourth of July at Delta, Pa., was a big affair, the tents being packed to the ring banks at each performance. The Fourth was also Charles Gregory's birthday. He did not forget the "boys," and had liquid refreshments served to all hands. Evidently he was not forgotten, for, at the conclusion of his barrel act (which closed the show), at night, Sig. Nevaro stepped forward, and, in a neat speech, presented him, in behalf of the company, with a fine gold watch and chain. Mr. Gregory was completely taken by surprise, but finally recovered his"wind," and responded in good shape. Everybody is well and happy. Everything is running smoothly, and the spectre in white perambulates with great regularity. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
    1891: Notes from Sparks & Allen's Shows. We are now in our thirteenth week of continued prosperity. The fancy rifle shooting of Capt. H.(B.?) A. Bartlett, wife and daughter makes a decided hit, as does also the Japanese juggling act of Harry Belmain. George and Mollie Belford, in their double trapeze act, come in for a large share of applause. The musical act of Sparks Bros. and the burlesque boxing bout between Madden and Lowery continue special features of the concert. Everybody is well and happy. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
    1891: Phil Apple returned home on Tuesday noon. He has been playing with the Sparks & Allen's circus band. Indiana Progress (Indiana, PA), Wednesday, August 6, 1891.
    1891: Notes from Sparks & Allen's Shows. We are now in the fifteenth(?) week of continued prosperity. The leaping over eight horses by our corps of leapers, led by George Gregory and ___, is one of the leading features. The Belford Bros. are still making hits. George Hartzell contributes to the fun department in large quantities. Prof. C. J. Gregory's trained horses, Prince and Dolly, are working finely, and always come in for their share of applause. Red Eagle, Indian contortionist, closed July __ at Bedford, Pa. . . . New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 365.
    1891: Notes from Sparks & Allen's Circus. We are now in our twenty-second week, and still there is no diminuation in the large business which has followed this show from the start. We now have __ leapers who do doubles in the batoute leaping . . . Chas.(?) Gregory continues to win great applause for his equilibrist act. The band, under the leadership of Prof. Eugene Wack, is one of the best features of the show. . . . New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
    1891: Sparks & Allen's Circus is reported to be meeting with much success in Pennsylvania. Manager Sparks is now traveling ahead, while C. J. Gregory has charge of the show. H. H.(?) Whittier has a fine route book in preparation. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 502.
    1891: Notes from Sparks & Allen's Circus. Business continues good. The "boys" are beginning to form plans for the winter. C. J. Gregory is organizing a strong combination to play week stands in the principal cities. It will be known as the Gregory Bros. Co.(?) He has some very good time booked. Eugene Mack has signed with Vreeland's Operatic Minstrels. . . . Madden and Lowery have a big budget of new songs and dances, which they will use this winter. Manager Sparks is back with the show again, and everything is running smoothly. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
    1891: The Sparks & Allen Shows closed their season of twenty-six weeks at Butler(?), Pa., Oct. 17(?), and at once shipped to East Brady, where the winter quarters are located. Nearly all the performers are engaged for the Gregory Bros.' Co., which opens at the World's Museum, Pittsburg, this week. Manager Sparks will take out an "U. T. C." Co. during the winter season. At the conclusion of the night show at Butler, ?. H. Whittier, who had been acting as mail carrier during the tenting season, was presented by the performers and musicians with an elegant gold watch and chain as a token of their appreciation of his services. Manager Sparks intends to enlarge his show next season . . . New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.

    1892: Wanted, for side show with Sparks & Allen's Great Eastern Circus. A circassian lady that can handle snakes(?) and furnish a ___ painting . . . Prof. Geo. T. Golt, manager side show with Sparks & Allen's Circus, United States Hotel, Wilmington, Del. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 787.
    1892: Wanted, boss canvasman. Will buy 100ft. round top, stables, troughs, etc. Address J. H. Sparks, East Brady, Pa., Sparks & Allen's Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 30.
    1892: Last week fire destroyed all the tents, seats, poles, etc., belonging to Sparks & Allen's Circus, together with two advance wagons, twenty sets of double harness and jack and seat wagons. The balance of the show, twelve wagons, stock, etc., was in another building, and consequently saved. The show will open, as usual, in April with a new outfit. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
    1892: A. J. Anderson . . . has secured the privileges with Sparks & Allen's Circus, now touring Pennsylvania, to reported good business. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
    1892: Wanted, quick, contortionist or flying trapeze [song] and dance man, all must do two or more turns. People doubling brass preferred. Address Sparks & Allen's Circus, Altoona, Pa. May 19, Bellwood 20, Osceola 21. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 174.
    1892: Wanted, circus performers, musicians, concert people (doubling brass), bill posters, boss hostler, canvas man, etc. Enlarging show for the East. Address Sparks & Allen's Circus . . . New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 273.
    1892: Notes from Sparks & Allen's Circus. "Biz" has been big for the past four weeks in New Jersey and New York. Many important changes and improvements have taken place. Our band now numbers ten mouthpieces, and the show runs as smoothly as clock work. H.(?) G. Alger and Wm. ?. Miller have joined our advance. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 340.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sparks & Allen's, Delhi NY Aug 5 . . . Hunter 9, Windham 10. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sparks & Allen's, Windham NY Aug 10. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 361.
    1892: Sparks & Allen's Circus. We are now on our eighteenth week, and the season has proven the best in the history of this show. For the past two months we have had beautiful weather. The proprietors have decided to put a first class country circus on the road about Nov. 15(?), playing all the best towns through to the Pacific Coast, carrying all their ponies, donkeys and dogs, and mounted parade, big band, and decorate the inside of opera houses with their tents, giving a regular old time one ring circus performance. New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 406.
    1892: Wanted, manager for country circus. Winter season to opera houses. Also wanted for balance tenting season, boss hostlers, drivers and canvasmen. Musicians and song and dance man. Address Sparks & Allen's Circus, Hamilton, N.Y. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 434.
    1892: H. A. Mann has closed with Chas. Lee's London Shows as general agent, and has joined the advance of Sparks & Allen's Great Eastern Circus. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 505.
    1892: From the Fred Locke Show. Wm. De Boe joins Sparks & Allen's Winter Circus. New York Clipper, October 22, 1892, p. 522.
    1892: Sparks & Allen's Circus closed on Oct. 29, after a profitable season of twenty-seven weeks. The show will be enlarged and improved for next season. New York Clipper, November 12, 1892, p. 570.
    1892: Geo. S. Cole has purchased a half interest in the Sparks & Allen Circus. The show will be newly equipped for next season and it is promised that it will be made one of the best wagon shows on the road. Two elephants and ten cages of animals will be added to the menagerie. New York Clipper, December 17, 1892, p. 654.

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John H. Sparks Show - 1912

    Suffern, N. Y., May 8. . . . Bert Mayo is equestrian director, . . . Ben F. Taylor, with a band of ten pieces, supplied some excellent music. . . . The Six Waltons, in a picturesque art statuary act . . . A Chinese grotesque comedy acrobatic speciality was then introduced by Sherry and Conners, who clearly demonstrated their ability in this line of work. . . . Display No. 4 contained two of the best wire acts in the business. On one end of the tent Berre and Hicks (man and woman) performed, executing the usual stunts seen in this line. . . . Victoria Biggs, costumed in a handsome blue gown . . . did some new tricks on the wire that got her plenty of applause. Display No. 5 showed Myrtle Mayo astride her beautiful black stallion, "Bird," introducing the cakewalk and gaits. . . . Display No. 6 had three of the best female aerial performers that the writer has ever witnessed. . . . Josie Bartlett was on one end, and Helen Nelson on the other, with Lizzie Cohn in the center. . . . Display No. 7 - Prof. Lewis Reed put his herd of performing elephants through a remarkable exhibition of numerous stunts . . . The clowns, headed by Joseph Sherry, one of America's foremost comedians, played the usual funny baseball game . . . His assistants are Joe McAllister, Stoddard, ??? Wallace, Connors and Claude Colbertson. . . . Display No. 9 had Berre and Hicks, in their wonderful backward headling dives from a high ladder. . . . Display No. 10 - Bert Mayo had a troupe of six stallions, which he put through many difficult tricks, but on account of the bad condition of the ring had to curtail his performance. Display No. 11 - The Flying Nelsons, in an aerial performance . . . Display No. 12 - Bert Mayo again tried to do an equestrian act, but the track interfered. The next display was entirely given over to the funny men . . . Display No. 14 - The Walter Troupe . . . acrobatic performance . . . all being attired in evening dress. Bert Mayo and Jos. Sherry creeated roars of laughter with the well known horse trade material. Display No. 16 - The Loretta Sisters, in an aerial performance while suspended by their teeth. . . . Display No. 17 - Pete Nelson and Lizzie Guice, in a revolving trapeze act. . . . Display No. 18 - Again Bert Mayo was seen, this time with the ponies, on a revolving table. A concert, which was given after the regular performance . . . The side show is under the direction of Harry H. Hall . . . 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.

Spaun's Railroad Show - 1900

    Opened at Port Jervis, New York, May 14 for one week to good business. Mr. Gordon Wrighter is manager. Billboard, May 21, 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 the persons.

Col. Spicers' Circus - 1886

      The roster of Col. Spicers'Circus is as follows: Col. Spicers, proprietor; J. M. Barry, manager; H. D. Armstrong, business-manager and general-agent, with six assistants and three wagons; Lon Cole, manager of annex; Louis Barry, treasurer; Frank Pecard, boss of canvas; W. A. Humbly, superintendent of privileges; Prof. Louis S. Deisback, leader of baud and orchestra. Performers — C. E. Murphy, De Castro Bros., Harry Laveer and wife, Edward Nelson and family, Rea and Roe, Louis and Edward Stone, James Harris, Frankie Barry, Maimie Deisback and Sadie Deisback. New York Clipper, May 8, 1886. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.

Z. W. Sprague's - 1880

    Z. W. Sprague’s circus organization is rapidly approaching completion. A building has been erected in Dundee, Ill., where horses and men are training. Mr. Mayo will be the superintendent, and E. C. Thurber business manager. New York Clipper, March 6, 1880. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or the persons.

Stang Bros. - 1892

    Wanted, for Stang Bros. United Monster 25 Cent Shows. Acrobats, gymnasts, aerial people, singling clown, juggler, ball kickers, brother act, concert people. Wanted, boss canvasman, chandellier man, etc. Would like to hear from crack circus band, six mouthpieces. Show travels by wagon, short jumps. Stang Bros., Burlington, Racine Co., Wis. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 31.
    1892: Call. Stang Bros.' United Shows. All people engaged report at Burlington, Wis., Wednesday, May 4(?). Would like to hear from circus people who can double in concert. Also horizontal bar team. Can use three more bill posters. Stang Bros., Burlington, Wis. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 112.
    1892: Wanted, for Stang Bros.' Circus, at once: boss canvas man, 80(?)ft. round top and good people in all branches. Wire or meet at Port Washington, Wis., May 19, Fredonia 20, West Bend 21, Kewaskum 23, Campbellsport 24. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 173.

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Starrett's Shows - 1906, 1908, 1909, 1912

    1906: Starrett's Society Shows . . . Chas. Hopper, singing and talking clown, is with the Starrett Show, making his third season with this attraction. New York Clipper, June 30, 1906, p. 511.

    1908: Starrett Show notes. Aug. 12 was Mr. Starrett's birthday, and we celebrated the event in Peconic, L.I. The band members, advance men and clowns presented Mr. Starrett with a fine watch fob, . . . with a horse's head in the center. The canvasmen and others with the show presented him with a neat pair of cuff buttons. Mr Starrett at noon gave a very fine chicken dinner, with the best of vegetables, and winding up with pie and ice cream that made the boys smile. During the pleasant sunny day Mr. Starrett took a fine set of circus pictures, some of which will be sent to the Clipper. Everybody is singing, and the day is spent like a little rest for their season's faithfulness, until to-night, when the band will strike up and the show will go on as ever. Howard Starrett Jr., leading and singing clown, was hurt in one of the big comedy horse acts, but is now coming around all right. Ed. Williams, the boss canvasman and old reliable, while on parade, driving one of the high wagons, was bruised very badly about the nose by the branch of an old tree. The boys laugh every time they see him coming, but they can't help it. While playing Southold, Mr. and Mrs. Starrett and Howard B.(?) Jr. were invited to dinner by Mr. Post, where a very pleasant afternoon was spent. . . . Pat Rooney . . . " New York Clipper, August 28, 1908, p. 738.

    1909: Starrett's Circus has been on the road since May 3, and has been playing to packed tents, owing to the good weather and our refined performances. Our parade is up-to-date and is led by Mr. and Mrs. Starett, mounted upon very fine menage horses. They are followed by a very pretty band wagon, drawn by four calico horses, that are plumed so as to make the array the talk of the town. They are followed by many small carts, ponies and funny clowns. Between each selection ??? our eight-piece band plays, the clown band, led by Howard S. Starrett Jr., creates laughter . . . and sets the youngsters in an uproar. But when he shakes his big clown feet at them they just scream with delight and do not miss seeing him at the evening performance. On July 4 we all were invited for a ??? on the bay, on the launch of one of Port Washington's prominent citizens, who was, in return, treated to a real circus dinner. at 12 o'clock, the same night, after the big top had been loaded, we had a clambake. . . . The roster of our show follows: Howard S. Starett, sole owner and manager; Mrs. Starrett, high class riding act; Howard S. Starrett Jr., leading and singing clown; Howard Sweet, cornetist and leader of band; John Fetter, trombone; Jas. Welch, bass; Frank Martin, trap drummer; James Smith, cornetist; . . . William Roff(?), clarinet; . . . Herbert Brown, cornetist; John Lee House, clown; Harry ???, clown; Eugene Lobrer, clown; Harmond Bros., acrobats; . . . Harry Hill, cook; Ed. Williams, boss canvasman; Jim Le Roy, pony boy; . . . Al. thompson, advance agent; Tom Thompson, advance agent; Charlie Bishop, watchman. New York Clipper, July 24, 1909, p. 605.

    1910: Notes from the Starrett's Shows. This circus is the first in history to go overland in automobiles. It is an automobile circus this season. The autos are used for transportation. Four trucks, one to each machine. The advance also has a small auto. The show has only four draught horses, and they are only used in case of trouble. So far they have had an early season, and are getting far. The parade is made with ponies, and little cages add to its attractiveness. The show now has thirty-two ponies, three being foaled last week. Every one who started out with the show is still with it, even the canvasmen. This speaks well for the management and the cook tent. Edward and Bert Williams are in charge of the ring stock, this being their fourth season with the show. New York Clipper, July 23, 1910, p. 582.

    1912: Starrett's Shows. This show opened its season in Brookly, N. Y., May 13, where it will play four weeks, and take to the road. The show will not be enlarged, but remain the same as last season. Mr. Starrett has all new canvas from "marque" to horse tent. Eight small Shetlands have been added to the show, and a number of dogs. Mr. Starrett will work all horse, pony and dog acts himself, as usual. The show will take "Trinket," claimed to be the smallest horse in the world, as its mascot. "Trinket" was born with the show two years agos, and is twenty-three inches in height. the little fellow will sit on the seat of Mr. Starrett's carriage beside him during parade. Mrs. Starrett will drive a four-in-hand, all ponies, exactly thirty-two inches high. New York Clipper, May 18, 1912, p. 16.

    1912: The Starrett Shows are in the heart of Brooklyn, and business is good. On June 2 a baby pony was born. There was a rumor during the Flatbush engagement that the big top was on fire. But this did not happen in reality. The rumor was caused when a moving picture was been taken with Mr. Starrett's permission. After the horses, poinie, acrobats and clowns had finished their merry antics, the elephants brought the climax by being "heroes" while the supposed fire raged in the tent. The fire was, of course, arranged to make the pictures, and the evening performance went on as usual. After our Brooklyn stands the show will take to the cars for the road. 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.

W. H. Stewart - 1893 (various titles)

    1891: Capt. W. H. Stewart is hard at work on his circus outfit for next season. His Gorilla Car. No. 1 is touring Pennsylvania; car No. 2 is touring Ohio, car No. 3 is touring Michigan, and next week car No. 4, with one hundred prairie dogs, starts out. His Palace of Illusions will take the road when the Fair season commences. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.

    1893: Capt. W. H. Stewart has closed both of his enterprises. He reports a prosperous season and, after additions to his stock have been made, he will being a new season a few weeks hence. Capt. stewart will organize a circus during this winter for next season, which will be small, but equipped with everything new. He will use three railroad cars, one 70ft. hotel car, one flat and a stock car, and carry sixty people. He will run all privileges himself. The show will start from Fort Wayne, Ind., about May 1, and travel through Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York and Vermont. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 560.
    1893: From the headquarters of Capt. Stewart's Circus, Museum and Trained Animal Exposition. We are busy building a new animal house, which will be heated with natural gas. We have also got wagon makers at work on new wagons and cages. We have purchased another large puma and Russian wild boar. Capt. Stewart is negotiating for Daisy, the Australian hairless mare. Col. Crawford has been a guest of Mr. Steward for a few days. A feature next season as the outside attraction and free show will be a chair balancing act 60(?)ft. high. New York Clipper, November 11, 1893, p. 577.
    1893: Capt. Stewart, proprietor of Stewart's Railroad Circus, writes: "I have finished repainting all my cages, made all new curtains and paraphernalia, and have added several more rare animals in my collection. I will consolidate my two traveling museums under the title of Capt. Stewart's New York Zoological Garden and Boston Dime Museum. I will open my winter season in Fort Wayne Dec. 23(?) for holiday week. I am also getting along nicely on my circus outfit for 1894." New York Clipper, December 16, 1893, p. 659.
    1894: Notes from Sun Bros.' Shows. We have secured Capt. Stewart's Museum and Sideshow for next season. . . . New York Clipper, February 10, 1894, p. 787.
    1894: Cap Stewart wants side show people for season of '94. Also wants to buy paintings and small animals. Don't write for high salaries, as these good old Democratic times are mighty tough. ___ East Wayne Street, Fort Wayne, Ind. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 808.

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Stone Bros. - 1889, 1891

    1889: W. S. Wheeler, clown, is now with the Stone Bros. Wild West. He closed with the Ringling Bros. Circus on account of ill health. New York Clipper, September 21, 1889, p. 460.
    1889: W. S. Wheeler has been compelled to close with Stone Bros. Wild West Show, on account of ill health. He is now at Hot Springs, Ark. New York Clipper, October 19, 1889, p. 541.
    1891: . . . Stone's Circus is wintering at Gretna. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 709.

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D. W. Stone's - 1878

    Collapsed. In Chicago, Ill., says our correspondent, “owing to the continued stormy weather and other unfortunate circumstances, D. W. Stone’s Circus collapsed after the performances May 29. Mr. Bronson, a Kansas stockman, the principal money-backer, went West 28, and has not been heard from since. The sorrowful group of circus people (and excellent performers, too) are out five week’s salary, and are drying their skins about the hospitable fires of the Commercial House.” New York Clipper, June 8, 1878. 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 Stone's Crescent City - 1892

    Wanted, for the Crescent City Circus, band of eight mouthpieces, also people in all branches of circus business. Address Frank Stone, general manager, Sherman House, Jeffersonville, Ind. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 62.
    Call. People engaged for F. Stone's Crescent City Shows report for rehearsal at Jeffersonville, Ind. April __. Wanted, one clarionet, two B cornet and one baritone players. Frank Stone, Sherman House, Jeffersonville, Ind. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 108.
    Roster of the Frank Stone Shows: Frank Stone, sole owner; Capt. S. J. Oatman, manager; "Uncle Dan" Castello, equestrian director; W. W. Horn, treasurer; J. J. McCourt (Little Mack), door keeper; Tully Strayer, general agent, with six assistants; Prof. Wm. Spies(?), in charge of band; Prof. H. B.(E.?) Christopher, leader of orchestra . . . Harry Morrell . . . Ed. Warner . . . the Leondas, ___ and Christopher, and Mrs. T. J. Oatman. The show opened at New Albany, Ind., April 26(?). New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 130.
    On the road, circuses: Frank Stone's, Leavenworth, IN May 4, Carrellton(?) 5, Owensboro KY 6, 7, Henderson 9 . . . New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
    Notes from the Frank Stone & Co.'s Combined Shows. The Frank Stone & Co.'s Combined Shows opened its season at New Albany, Ind., Feb 26(?), under favorable circumstances. The canvas was crowded at each performance for five days. At Jeffersonville we took the steamer John Fowler for our tour on the Ohio. At every town business was good. We show at Paducah, Ky. for days, from where the show goes by rail, having purchased new cars, eight head of horses, wagons, etc. The boys are all sorry to leave the boat, as it was very comfortable. . . . Old Uncle Dan Costello(?) is as funny as ever. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
    St. Louis, Missouri. Stone & Co.'s circus was stranded here last week, and some eighty employes were looking for the treasurer. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
    T. J. Oatman and wife, and Uncle Dan Castello arrived at Chicago June 16, to join King and Sandown's(?) Great Australian Circus. T. J. Oatman wishes to state that he and his wife are not, nor have they ever been, with the Great American Circus. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 244.
    On the road, circuses: Stone's, Hagerstown Md. July 28. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.

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John F. Stowe's - 1890-92

    1890: Notes from Stowe Bros.' Shows. Business has been very good throughout the South. The Wild West features have proved a big card, and are pronounced by the press to be one of the best exhibitions of frontier life ever seen in the South. The employees of the show recently presented Manager John F. Stowe with a pure white solitaire diamond, the occasion being the anniversary of Mr. Stowe's birth. The show is now near the close of what had proved a most profitable season, and all arrangements for the season of 1890 are perfected. Several new cars will be added, and there will be a complete new tent . . . It is the intention of the management to give, in addition to the circus and wild west, hippodrome races on a __ft. track. The death of A. N. King, far away in London, was heard of through the Clipper with much sorrow by the entire company, especially by Messrs. Stowe Bros., who had both in the past enjoyed close friendship with the deceased. John F. Stowe was for several years intimately associated with Mr. King, and once served as equestrian director of the King & Franklin Show. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
    1890: Stowe Bros.' Circus notes. The show closed a successful season of thirty-six weeks at Birmingham, Ala., Jan. 30(?), and shipped direct to their commodious winter quarters at Cincinnati, where they will go into extensive preparations for the coming year. The management promises one of the best and most novel shows on the road next season. A large force of men will be kept constantly employed building paraphernalia pertaining to a full fledged railroad show. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 791.
    1890: Stowe Bros.' Colossal R. R. Shows, World's Museum, Roman Hippodrome and Historical Wild West. Wanted, novel and sensational acts of every description, riders and drivers for hippodrome races, long haired cowboys and Indians . . . Performing ponies, dogs and monkeys, and other performing animals; twenty sober and experienced billposters, good chandelier man . . . horse drivers, canvas man, property man. . . . Wanted to buy sleeping car and ___ flat car. For sale - all kinds of show paraphernalia. . . . New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 831.
    1890: Stowe Bros.' call. All people engaged will report as follows. Bill posters, lithographers, programmers and calliope player for advance car will report Sunday, April 12(?). Performers, band hippodrome and Wild West people, grooms, canvasmen and trainmen will report Wednesday April 23(?). Canvasmen report to M. J. Haley. . . . All other people to Stowe Bros., ?? Central Avenue, Cincinnati. Wanted, a few more good bill posters, and experienced chandelier man and property men. New York Clipper, April 12, 1890, p. 76.
    1890: Cincinnati, Ohio. Tommy Hart and Albert Craston, of Stowe Brothers are with us for a short time. Manager John H.(?) Havlin is home from St. Louis. Stowe Bros.' Colossal Railroad Shows open the season at Covington, Ky., just over the bridge, 24(?). New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 99.
    1890: Stowe Bros.' roster: general managers, John F. and Burt Stowe; general advance representative, T. B. Long; contracting agent, Charles Ellis; assistant agent, A. O. Cass; boss billposter, Fred Gilbert with ten assistants; equestrian manager, Fred H. Leslie; treasurer, George L. Behrans; assistant treasurer, John Keenan; master of canvas, M. T. Haley, with Ed. Kennedy and thirty men; master of stock, R. Rual with then men; manager of sideshow, C. A. Donaldson; superintendent of Wild West, Oregon Kit; Prof. F. Long's military band of fourteen pieces . . . Performers: Jennier Family; Smith Brothers . . . Master Welch; Mlle. Barton; Fred H. Leslie; Lawrence Sisters; Sergt. George . . . Mons. Jean Jacobs . . . Chief White Cloud and Comanche Indians; Buckeye George and Kentucky Frank. New York Clipper, May 3, 1890, p. 126.
    1890: Fred Gilbert has taken charge of advertising car No. 1,Stowe Bros.' Shows . . . This is the roster of the car: Fred Gilbert, manager . . . Geo. H. Allen, lithographer; Mack Meyers, programmer . . . Horace Hawkins, porter and . . . ?. F. Harrison . . . Geo. Lawrence, Thomas Humble and G. R. Meyers, billposters. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 155.
    1890: Mrs. John Stowe, of Stowe Bros.' Circus, celebrated her birthday June _, at Muskegon, Mich., and was the recipient of some handsome presents from the company. After the performance Mrs. Stowe gave a reception under the Wild West canvas. The show reports good business. New York Clipper, June 21, 1890, p. 231.
    1890: John F. Stowe, of Stowe Bros.' Circus, and his wife were Clipper callers Aug. 26(?). . . . Lucius Foster, boss canvasman, recently joined the show. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 387.
    1890: St. Louis, Missouri. The Stowe Bros.' Railroad Show did not ___ their date at East St. Louis. There was some trouble between the brothers and the billposters attached the advertising car at ___. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 531.
    1890: The Stowe Bros. Circus has come to grief. Frank Reynolds, of Cincinnati, and a member of the firm, closed the show for debt. Salaries were due the agents, billposters and others, and Charles Ellis(?), contracting agent, and Fred Gilbert attached the advertising car at St. Louis for their unpaid salaries. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 539.
    1890: Notes from Stowe Bros.' Circus, on board the steamer Rob Roy, plying the Mississippi and Yazoo Rivers: Our company consists of Mr. and Mrs. John T. Stowe, Burt Stowe, Tom Crowe, Wm. Sloman, advance; Lon Harrison, boss billposter, with six assistants; Buckeye George, treasurer; Sig. Zano, equestrian director; Prof. Jake Michael, leader of band of eight mouthpieces; Prof. Henry Eggar, leader of orchestra, with six pieces; Jno. Keenan . . . handle the tickets and privileges; and Ed. Williams, master of canvas. Performers: . . . Sig. Zano, Fred Jinks, Eddie Harman, Ida Harman, Buckeye George, Harry White, Sig. Zano, Fred Wallace and Frank Watson. Our sideshow consists of Prof. Kerrigan's decapitation, living mermaids, magic, ventriloquism and his illusion "Satan's Throne." Prof. Leno, up to the present, has made fifteen aerial flights, the most remarkable at Wilton's Landing. After he had ascended 500ft. high, he began to descent, and landed 300ft. from the furnace. Not being satisfied, he had his balloon carried back, while inflated, placed over the furnace and refilled it. He went to the height of 5,000ft., alighting within 10ft. of the river bank. The Clipper is a welcome visitor every week. The most costly one was purchased at Vicksburg. We bid on it, and it was at last knocked down for fifty cents. When we got to the wharf we found our boat gone, and a 100 miles railroad fare to pay. The man in white had walked in the morning, which is regularly every week, therefore we were all O.K. New York Clipper, December 13, 1890, p. 629.

    1891: Mrs. Margaret Stowe, mother of the Stowe Bros. of circus fame - John F. and Bert - died April 29(?). She will be remembered by many of the oldest of amusement caterers as being one of the first, if not the first, lady magician in this country, who, forty years ago, in company with her husband, John Stowe, gave entertainments in school houses and dining halls in vallages that are now large and prosperous cities. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 155.
    1891: Cincinnati, Ohio. ___ and Billy Gibbs have signed with Stowe's Circus, to do wrestling bouts, pugilistic turns and statue acts. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 166.
    1891: The Sheppards, Frank and Katie, closed a week's engagement at Kohl & Middleton's Museum, Cincinnati, and joined the Stowe Bros.' Circus. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 215.
    1891: The Stowe Bros.' Show has successfully inaugurated another season in the suburbs of Cincinnati. The weather spoiled business at Pendleton, but at . . . and Camp Washington the attendance was large and enthusiastic. The show is really a good one, and is on the order of an olio under canvas. The Elliots do a very clever act. Tom McInerney(?) and Billy Gibbs are taking cards. They appear in living statues and in the concert after the performance spar for four rounds. John F. Stowe is the manager of the show; J. E. Elliott, treasurer; William Gibbs, equestrian director; Thomas J. Crowe, advance representative; William Ransom, master of canvas; and John Myers, master of stock. The performers include: Frank Calbert, the Shepharads . . . Borrell, Harry Bowers . . . William Conrad, Harris and Rhodes, the Lee Sisters, William Sloman and others. New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 249.
    1891: Christmas with Stowe's Circus. Everybody is happy, and all work with a vim that plainly told that Christmas was no ordinary day with them. We arrived on the lot at 7.30 o'clock, and by 9 o'clock the tents were all up and everything in perfect order. at 10.30 the parade started. After the return the company repaired to the dining car, where an elaborate spread was laid. a Fitting address was delivered by Mr. Stowe, after which a toast for his prosperity was drank. The car was beautifully decorated, and everything wore a cheery aspect. Just as the dinner was finished the canvasmen were driven up in hacks, headed by their worthy director, J. Weaver, who, after a short but appropriate address on behalf of himself and fellow workmen, presented Mr. Stowe with a handsome gold chain. . . . New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 753.

    1892: Stowe's Circus, after a ten day's engagement to reported good business, has sailed for Havana, Cuba. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 795.
    1892: Stowe's Circus wants circus people in every branch. Performers, musicians, bosses in every department to join show in Florida on or about May 10. Will pay cash for two long cars, flat and combination, flat and stock. Also trick horse or two ponies and troupe of dogs. Address John F. Stowe, Circo Pubiliones and Stowe, Cafe Central , Havana, Cuba. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 125.
    1892: Stowe's Circus wants a few more sensational acts of every description. Also musicians, trained animals, bosses, cooks, grooms, canvas man, light man, etc. Address John F. Stowe, ___ Centre Street, New York. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 175.
    1892: Band leader wanted, also clarionette and baritone for Stowe's Circus. Address John F. Stowe, ___ Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 241.
    1892: Baltimore, Maryland. John F. Stowe's Circus pitched its tents at Madison Avenue and Bloom Street for one week, commencing 11. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
    1892: "Doc" Miller has closed with John Stowe's Show, and is now in this city, where he will practice an aerial act with his wife. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: De Mora, hand balancer and contortionist, has closed with J. F. Stowe's Circus, and is resting at his home, Rochester, N.Y. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 506.
    1892: The business staff of John F. Stowe's Railroad Show is: Harry Moore, general agent; C. E. Kenney, contracting agent; J. H. Wood, press agent and superintendent advertising car No. 1; H. R. Cook, chief billposter; Chas. Hardy, programmer; Geo. Wilds, lithographer; Joe Woodard, John Davis, J. K. Cote(?), J. G. Clark, H. Cleveland, O. K. Wright, Jas. Sullivan, Pete Morris, Wm. Miller and H. G. Main, billposters; Prof. Williams, porter. The show is headed for the South for the winter. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 507.

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Sturgis' American Circus - 1890

    Complaints of the unprofessional treatment received by the performers who went South with Sturgis' circus continue to reach us. The latest is from Robert Whittaker, the rider. Mr. Whittaker left the show at Curacao Dec. 23(?) and was confined to his bed by illness until Jan. 11, when he left for New York. Mr. Sturgis, he claims, tried to seize his horse and trunks, but an appeal to the U. S. Counsel soon settled the matter. Mr. Whittaker's horse and trunks are now in this city [New York], but he is minus two weeks' salary. The show has not closed, and has left for Port of Spain, Trinidad Island, W. I. Business has been poor, and the people are leaving for home. There are now only thirteen people with the show, including musicians, of whom there are four, the rest having left for New York. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 759.
    C. J. Sturgis, proprietor of the American Circus, now in South America, sends us a very complete and convincing refutation of the charges made against him by the Maymards(?) and John Saunders, late of his show. He has, in another column, some very frank words to say of his opponents. The members of the circus declare that salaries have been paid in full. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 797.
    A Few Facts! I sailed from New York City, Oct., 18, for South America with a circus company comprising some nineteen (19) performers. My season thus far has been a success, financially and artistically. Even my most ___ expectations have been more than realized. My company are all healthy and contented, and I have each one's ___ for salaries up to date. In organizing my company in New York I was so unfortunate as to engage a few performers whose ability and character were entirely unknown to me. My only salvation was to rid myself of them; but his I did in an honorable and manly way, as the following will prove. I am not a stranger in these countries, for this is my third trip, and I have had some of the very cream of the profession in my employ, and I challenge anyone to come forward and say a single word that would prove detrimental to my character as man or manager. The above mentioned parties were of such a calibre that I did not try to seek redress for the wrongs they did me, but let them go while in my debt. However, my attention was called to an article in a late Clipper, signed "The Marnarda," and also another signed "John Saunders(?)," which call for a plain statement. These three artist were in New York, and begged me to give them an engagement, which I did. The Maynards received their salaries and their fares home. Saunders I discharged . . . I had given him money for board. He forgets to mention these facts and also that he is now in my debt. I am very __ with these particulars, but should they try to injure my reputation I will be compelled to bring to light certain other things. Fraternally yours, C. J. Sturgis. We, the undersigned, members of Sturgis' American Circus, wish to publicly state that we are happy and healthy, and satisfied in every was with out engagement. Salaries have been paid promptly and in full, and we all join in wishing him the success he so merits. . . . Mr. and Mrs. O'Dale, Francis Kennebel, Miss Cordona, Fred O'Brien Jr., Steve La Mont, Paul Devine, Frank Devine, Rosina Venus . . . New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 798.
    The Sturgis American Circus closed their season at ___, W. I., Jan. __, and sailed for an extended tour of Brazil. . . . The company have recently been reinforced by a native family of gymnasts, and are all well and in good spirits. New York Clipper, February 22, 1890, p. 829.
    Notes from the Sturgis Show. Business at Martinique was big, while the people of Barbados, W. I., turned out in very small numbers. We opened in Brazil, S. A., Feb. 1(?), to immense business, which has continued ever since. We will keep on down the coast for some time, and will probably play Uruguay, Paraguay and the Argentine Republic. . . . Nobody can complain of sickness, everybody seeming to enjoy perfect health. At last accounts Donovan & Stickney were in Venezuela. New York Clipper, March 15, 1890, p. 5.
    . . . Latest advices from the Sturgis Show are that they have stranded in the interior, and everything attached." New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.

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Sun Brothers’ - 1892-94, 1900

    1892: Sun always shines. Wanted, for Sun Bros.' Big 10 and 20 Cent Show, under canvas, to open May 1?, at Toledo, Ohio, musical team, black face team, comedians, band of six pieces that double on stage, boss canvasman. Will buy 100 ft. round top, seats and lights. Address Gus Gun, Hennepin, Ill. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 44.
    1892: On the road, miscellaneous: George Sun's Sturgis Mich. March 30, 31, La Grange, Ind. April 1, 2, Augurn 4, 5, Warsaw 6,7, South Bend 8, 9. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 55.
    1892: Sun Bros. United Shows open at Toledo, O., May 23, for one week, after which they take the road, making three night stands at 10 and 20 cents admission. Roster: Sun Bros., proprietors and mangers; Gus Sun, general agent, with three assistatns; Geo. Sun, main door tender . . . Performers: Geo. Sun, Gus Sun . . . New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 146.
    1892: Toledo, Ohio. Sun Bros.' United Shows (two tent) will open its season here 2?, for a week.The roster: The Four Dashingtons, Jessie Lake, the Brothers Romallos, Watson(?) and Jenks, the Morans . . . Oran, the human fly, Happy Dan Stafford, the Wilsons, the Clios, Del Adelphia and Mlle. Vida . . . New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 182.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sun Bros.' Maumee OH June 1, 2; Tontogany 3 . . . New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Sun Bros., Ottawa OH June 8,9, Columbus Grove 10,11, Lima 13-15. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
    1892: Ed. Long and his troupe of performing dogs have been added to the Sun Bros.' Circus. Good business is reported, despite inclement weather. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
    1892: Sun Brothers' Great United Shows. Rain every day, and canvas packed. Just added another __ft. middle piece, and want circus and concert people and musicians to enlarge in every department. Must do two or more turns. Will buy 100 feet of 10ft. side wall. Write or wire quick. Wapokoneta, O., June 16, 17 . . . Sidney 20, 21. Will buy 30 or 40 foot middle piece to fit 70ft. round top. Sun Bros. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 242.
    1892: Wanted, circus acts of all kinds at once. Bars, wire, trapeze, troupe of dogs and a few more musicians. Sun Bros. . . . Cummingsville, O., 13, 14, 15. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 289.
    1892: Sun Bros.' United Shows have showed two weeks of good business at Cincinnati, O., where it will remain another fortnight before taking the road. A new 40ft. middle piece and new dressing top have been secured. Herb Richards, Mrs. Irene Richards and Louise Sun were visitors last week. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: Sun Bros.' United Railroad Shows want circus people, and musicians in every branch, also concert people, those doubling in band given preference. Must do two or more turns. Long season. Grafton, W. Va., Sept. 2 and 3, Fairmont, W. Va. Sept. 5(?). Sun Bros. New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 416.
    1892: John Sun, the juggler, formerly of the well known Sun Bros., has returned to the stage, after a year's retirement. He opened Sept. 5(?), at Montreal, Can. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 425.
    1892: Notes from Sun Bros.' Circus. We are in our twentieth week in Ohio, and business continues good. Everybody is in excellent health. We will close on 17. . . . Trover and Ricardo and Maurice La Belle are recent additions. New York Clipper, October 8, 1892, p. 488.
    1892: Sun Bros.' Circus close season at Toledo, O., Oct. 15. The show will be enlarged to four cars next season, and will open early in May at Toledo. They report eight weeks of rain in the Spring, but only four days of rain since. They have not missed a performance nor had any accidents or blowdowns. John Star, juggler, is playing dates East at present. Peter Sun, juggler, is with one of Healy & Bigelow's companies in Illinois. Gus Gun, juggler, formerly manager for Healy & Bigelow, is half owner of Sun Bros.' Circus, and Geo. Sun, juggler, of "Phantasma" fame, is manager and half owner of Sun Bros.' Circus. Gus Gun will go to Hot Springs, Ark., at the close of the circus season. Geo. Sun will organize his "Phantasma," which opens Nov. 12. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 507.
    1892: At liberty, bass and tuba player. G. K. Sucey, care Sun Bros. Shows, Toledo, Ohio. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 516.

    1893: The following people have signed for Sun Bros.' United Shows: . . . Gus Gun, Tony Crandell, Happy Dave Stafford, Peter Sun, Jessie Lake and George Sun. The show will open at Toledo, O. New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 755.
    1893: Sun Bros.' Greatest 25 Cent Show On Earth. Season 1893 opens May 1, at Toledo, O. Want bosses in every department, circus and concert people of every description. Pepole must do two acts. Also musicians for two bands. Side show and candy stand privilege to let, share or rent. . . . Address Sun Bros., Reading, Pa., until March ?, after that Toledo, O. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 826.
    1893: Willard Stanton has singed as press agent and equestrian director of the Sun Bros.' Circus for next season. Jennie Willard, Floyd Trover . . . Lee Le Vant . . . have also been engaged. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
    1893: . . . Roster of Sun Bros.' advance brigade: First wagons, Gus Sun, contracting agent; Tony Crandall, advance agent with three assistants; Peter Sun, in charge country route with two assistants; James Carr, lithographer; John Swell programer. The advace are ten days ahead. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
    1893: Roster of Sun Bros.' United Shows. Four Sun Bros., owners; Gus Sun, advance agent with three assistants; Tony Crandell, Geo. Robinson and Chas. Ross(?) in charge of country route; Al. La Roe, advertising agent . . . Dan Stone, chandelier man . . . J. W. Jones, steward; Prof. Dickson, band leader; Albert Martin, Burt Owens, Chas. Rickard(Richard?), Ben Spedding, W. T. Rayburn, John Otis, Harry Brown, J. W. Barnes, Jessie Lake, Floyd Trover, William Trover, Robert Trover, Rexford Family . . . Robert White . . . New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 280.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Sun Bros., Steubenville OH July 7, Cadix 10. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
    1893: From Sun Bros. Circus. We are doing an excellent business and now strike the coal regions for a few weeks. . . . F. J. Cooper, cornetist, is our latest additon. Everything is running smoothly and the people are all well and happy. At Gallipolis, O., Andy Spears and wife . . . paid the show a visit. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
    1893: Wanted, circus acts and musicians. Address Sun Bros., Lancaster, Ohio, Aug. 26, Newark, Ohio, 30. New York Clipper, August 26, 1893, p. 408.
    1893: The three Bros. Rexfords left the Sun Show Aug. 20, to join Hi Henry's Minstrels. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 461.
    1893: [Ad] Band and orchestra of seven musicians, at liberty after Oct. 7. Would like to engage with specialty show or circus going south. H. H. Dickerson, care of Sun Bros.' Show, McComb, Ohio, Sept. 28 . . . Bowling Green Oct 2, Pemberville 3, Elmore 5, Toledo 6. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 488.
    1893: Notes from Sun Bros.' Circus. The Sun Bros. closed their season Sept. __, at Bowling Green, O., and it was by far the best season they have ever had. Hard times did not seem to hurt their business, and they increased their show to twice the size it was when they opened in the Spring. They have orders in now for all new canvas for 1894. They have thirty head of draught horses in pasture for next season, and they will have the largest and best equipped wagon show in Ohio. Gus Sun and Peter Sun spent a week in Chicago at the Fair. Geo. Sun and Gus Sun are now at Hot Springs and will remain there most of the winter. They expect to open a variety theatre there for the winter season. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 545.
    1893: The Sun Brothers write us that they will add a complete menagerie to their shows for the season of 1894, and will put out one of the biggest and best twenty-five cent shows on the road. The season will open as usual in Toledo, O., early in May. The have in view a grand feature new to the circus world, and hope to be the first to introduce it. New York Clipper, November 4, 1893, p. 561.

    1894: Notes from Sun Bros.' Shows. We have secured Capt. Stewart's Museum and Sideshow for next season. . . . Happy Dave Stafford, principal singing clown; Prof. Chas. white, heavyweight lifter . . . Several new wagons have been ordered. Nearly all of the paper used this season will be special. The Sun Bros. intend to make their show the leading twenty-five cent show in America. Sun Bros. make a Southern tour by rail during the months of October, November and December, which will make a long season for 1894. New York Clipper, February 10, 1894, p. 787.
    1894: C. S. Primrose has signed as general contracting agent for Sun Bros.' Greatest Twenty-five Cent Shows, which will open its season at Toledo, O., May 1. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
    1894: Notes from the Sun Bros.' Shows. Sun Bros. bought a carload of fine big draft horses last week and shipped them to their farm, near Toledo, O. New band uniforms have been ordered. All out canvas is finished and ready to go up for the first time. Our band will be strong, having only experienced palyers. Sun Bros. are negotiating for Wallace, the fighting lion . . . as a feature for their shows. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
    1894: Eggleston and Horner, knockabout comedians, have signed with Sun Bros.' Shows for next season. Mr. Horner will also do talking and singing clown. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
    1894: The Sun Bros. send the roster of their company for this season. They style their show The Sun Bros.' World's Greatest 25 Cent Shows. Sun Bros., proprietors and managers; George Sun, acting manager; John Starr, treasurer; C. S. Primrose, general contracting agent; Peter Sun, assistant and financier in advance, with six assistants; Fred Marshall, general superintendent and boss canvas man, with twelve assistants . . . W. H.(?) French, chandelier man . . . Otto Mueller, night watchman . . . Frank DeJudge, in charge of privileges; Capt. Stewart, charge of sideshow,in which he introduces rare animals, including a strong feature, the Living(?) gorilla, also magic, Punch and Judy, fire act, female Sampson, elastic skin man, fat woman and circassian. Our band will be lead by Prof. M. E. Wilson, assisted by W. W. Wilson, H. J. Wilson, Bert Fisher . . . Ernest A. King, Ed. Hicker, John Bernhard, Ed. Eggleston . . . Harry Sheets and Otto Graves. Performers: George Sun, juggler; Gus Sun, equilibristic act; Gillmore Bros., L'Echelle, contortion act and flying perch . . . Lucken Bros., double somersault brother act, flying rings and one hand balancing act; Robt. Crawford and Fred Fish, triple horizontal bars and revolving ladder; Jacob Zellers, acrobat and gymnast; Wm. Horner, knockabout clown . . . Happy Dave Stafford, singing clown; Arizona Bert, fancy and trick rifle shot. Also trained dogs, ponies and monkeys. Concert people: Eggleston and Horner, Harry Sheets, Chas. Osborne, Valora, Deonzo(?) and Violette. The show opens early in May. Every inch of canvas will be new. Also several new wagons, and the old wagons will be brightened up, and nearly all special paper used. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
    1894: Frank De Judge writes us that he will leave Great Falls, Montana, in a few days for Toledo, O., to take charge of privileges with the Sun Bros.' Circus. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 53.
    1894: Notes from the Sun Bros.' Show. Geo. Sun has returned to Toledo, O., after a long trip through the South and a stay of six weeks in Chicago. Gus Sun will arrive at headquarters this week and will bring several wagons with him from the B. Reynolds Show. Superintendent Col. Fred Marshall is arranging a new pole wagon and is busy improving the brakes on all the old wagons. Peter Sun, who will do the ___ ahead, is in the West, and will arrive in time to lead the advance to its first stand out of Toledo. Sun Bros. will make a seven day stand in Toledo, but play six different locations. Our stock is looking fine; we only lost three head during the winter, two of which were lost in the storm of Feb. 12(?). Paint is being applied to seats, poles and wagons, and we will soon be ready for the bugle call with the strongest and best show we ever had together. Prof. Wilson and band of solo musicians promises the rarest of music. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
    1894: Notes from the Sun Bros.' Show. - Geo. Sun has returned to Toledo, O., after a long trip through the South and a stay of six weeks in Chicago. Gus Sun will arrive at headquarters this week and will bring several wagons with him from the ?. Reynolds Show. Superintendent Col. Fred Marshall is arranging a pole wagon and is busy improving the brakes on all the old wagons. Peter Sun . . . is in the West and will arrive in time to lead the advance to the first stand out of Toledo. Sun Bros. will make a seven day stand in Toledo, but play six different locations. Our stock . . . we only lost three head during the Winter, two of which were lost in the storm of Feb. 12. Paint is being applied to seats, poles and wagons, and we will soon be ready for the bugle call . . . Prof. Wilson and head of ?? musicisans promise the rarest of music. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
    1894: . . . Sun Bros.' Circus . . . Eddie Ward has taken the privileges. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.

    1900: Sun Brothers’ World’s Progressive Show - Season 1900 will open in Raleigh, N. C., early in April, with the finest lay out the firm has ever owned. It is really a new show, and everything the finest and best money could buy. M. J. Carey, of Toledo, O., is doing the decorating and superintending the painting of the parade wagons. he turned out duing the Winter. Chas. Elliott, in charge of the stock, has them in the pink of condition. Otto Gleiser is overhauling all the miscellaneous property, and getting it ready for the paint brush, and making necessary changes for his big new canvas. Harry McBride is on hand, who is in charge of the small animals. A. C. Baucher[?] will manage the side show. Albert Moore will be in charge of the big bill wagon in advance. Peter Sun will be general manager in advance, and has arranged to use all special paper, and will introduce some novel advertising. Three Brothers Snyder, acrobats and barrel jumpers, have signed; also the Three Ferrises, dancing barrel, breakaway ladder and baby clown act; Noorwood and Cole, triple horizontal bars; Laciede [Laclede?] Sisters, aerialists; Leo Collins, tower dives; Oscar Brewer, principal clown; Joe Kearney, A. J. Wayne, Dexter and may, Edward Kinsland, J. W. Robinson, H. C. Metsler, T. J. Martin, L. E. Pepper and many others. Otto Muller and Howard Leaber [Leaher?] are to report at an early date. The ring barn is busily engaged daily by Prof. Kain with his horses, ponies and rope walking mule. Prof. Gleiser is preparing a great dog act, and will be a feature for our show. New York Clipper, March 17, 1900.

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Sutton's - 1888, 1890-93 (various titles)

    1888: Band, H. Wolf, Ia., just closed with Dick Sutton's Model Railroad Shows. New York Clipper, September 29, 1888, p. 470.

    1890: Sutton's New Model R. R. Shows. Wanted, performers in every branch except riders, a strong bar team, who can do double trapeze, specialty people for concert, people who do two turns and double on brass preferred; leader and musicians. . . . Dick P. Sutton, Ottumwa, Ia. For sale cheap, Pullman sleeper, baggage car and complete circus outfit. New York Clipper, March 8, 1890, p. 863.
    1890: Ottumwa, Iowa. James Myers, trapezist, will go with Dick P. Sutton's "U. T. C." Canvas Show. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 38.
    1890: Wanted, for Richard's 3 Big Shows. A good bar team, who do a good Brother act and go in leaps and tumble. Also, other good, strong circus acts. Dick P. Sutton, Ottumwa, Iowa. Would like to hear from the Sexton Brothers. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 93.
    1890: Wanted to buy, a medium sized elephant, two good camels, six or eight light two horse cages, with or without animals, sideshow painting and other good circus and menagerie property. Address Dick P. Sutton, ___ Hotel, Ottumwa, Iowa. Have good 50ft. baggage car for sale or exchange for circus property. New York Clipper, September 20, 1890, p. 444.
    1890: Wanted, for Dick's New Model Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Season opens at Ottumwa, Iowa, April __, good circus people in all branches; a good rider, who has his own stock preferred, one who can do Pete Jenkins and Indian act; side show freaks and good concert people. Address Dick P. Sutton, Ottumwa, Iowa. Wanted, to hear from Sexton Bros., Morris Cathcart, Mariette Bros., Sam Bennett . . . and Grothe the juggler. New York Clipper, September 20, 1890, p. 444.
    1890: The Cathcarts, ___ and Jessie, are touring the South with the O'Brien, French(?) & De Arley Railroad Circus. The team have signed with Dick Sutton's Circus for next season. New York Clipper, October 11, 1890, 487.

    1891: Wanted, for Dick's Model Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Oriental Village and American Horse Fair, a good singing clown, one that can do a good single turn. A good, strong novelty for sideshow. Band leader and musicians, a man to ride Pete Jenkins, hurdle, sailor or Indian, and a good bar team that can do good single turns and brother act. Show opens April __. All people engaged report to Ottamwa not later than April __. For sale, good baggage car __ft. long, has carried sixty thousands pounds in last three seasons. I ask six hundred; will grab at four if takes quick. Come and get it. Address, Dick P. Sutton, Ottamwa, Iowa. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 72.
    1891: Frank B. Hubin, late lecturer at Kohl & Middleton's Museum, Minneapolis, Minn., leaves there in a few days to travel this season with Sutton's Big Show as sideshow manager. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 76.
    1891: Ottumwa, Iowa. Dick P. Sutton, proprietor and manager of Sutton's Big Circus, is here (his home) and will open his tenting season here 27, 28. He will have a much larger aggregation than ever before. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 116.
    1891: The Edgerton Sisters, aerialists, have signed with Dick Sutton's Circus. George Edgerton has also been engaged as equestrian director and business manager with the same show. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 135.
    1891: Sutton’s Circus opened its season at Ottumwa, Ia. April 27, 28 to a crowded canvas. George Edgerton manages the ring and the Edgerton Sisters (trapeze performers) are the features. The others are: Stowe Brothers, Retlaw and Alton, Kennedy (human bridge) and Epwell’s educated horses. Frank Hubin presides over the annex. He also makes the announcements in the circus. Roster of the annex: Prof. Tostell, illusionist; Capt. McIntosh (tattooed man) and his tattooed dog, Hi Ki (Zulu Warrior) and Mme. Zelha (mind reader). New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
    1891: J. W. Harpstrite, one of the proprietors of Sutton's "U. T. C." Co., and also of Dick's Model Circus, was quietly married at Ottumwa, Ill., April 14, to Lillie Coleman, of Peoria, Ill. The bride is well known in the profession, and has been with Sutton's "U. T. C." Co. for the past three season. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 152.
    1891: Roster of Dick’s New Model Circus and Menagerie, which opened at Ottumwa, Ia., April 27: Dick P. Sutton, proprietor and manager; George Edgerton, assistant manager and equestrian director; C. C. Harpstrite, treasurer; J. W. Harpstrite, advance agent, with seven assistants; H. Blocker, leader of band; Herman Rohrs, leader of orchestra; James Norris, boss canvasman; Lee Henis, boss hostler; Ratlaw and Alton, Slackey, Ratiow, J. Roper, Cunningham and Lamont, Ellis Edwards, Stone Bros., Edgerton Sisters, Prof. Kennady, Thomas and Shrole(Shroie?), Prof. Jones, and Prof Bolstead, performers. Frank B. Hubin, manager sideshow; Capt. D. M. McIntosh, Prof. Fostello, Lillie De Vear, Thomas Eaton, Minnie Moore, Dot Eastman, Maurice Cathcart and others. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 169.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Dick Sutton's, Marshalltown, Ia. June 2. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    1891: Wanted for Dick's Circus and menagerie, 5 good sober billposters. Wagon show. J. W. Harpstrite, Marshalltown, Ia. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 225.
    1891: Frank B. Hubin is managing the sideshow with Dick's Circus. The following people are with him: Capt. McIntosh, tattooed man . . . Prof. Hubin (Punch and Judy and magic) . . . an elephant, camels and ponies. New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 249.
    1891: Notes from Dick's Circus. We are now in our ninth week, and have had a prosperous season, but the roads have been something terrible. Our first blow down of the season occurred at Ogden, Ia. Everything went down just as the afternoon show was about to take place, but we hustled and gave a performance to big business. Everybody is well, and the spectre in white walks weekly. Our performers: Retlaw and Alton, Stone Bros., Cunningham and Moncayo, Prof. J. W. Kennedy, Lula Moncayo and Prof. Meyer's school of educated horses. Our sideshow is run by Senator Frank B. Hubin, with the following people: Capt. McIntosh (tattooed man), Mlle. Jento (snake charmer), Sig. Lewisden(?) (strong man), Jubilee singers and Prof. Hubin's Punch and magic. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
    1891: Marshalltown, Iowa. Dick Sutton's Circus comes July 11. King & Franklin's 17(?). New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 300.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Sutton's, Oskaloosa, Ia. July 11. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
    1891: Notes from Dick's Circus. Business has been satisfactory since our opening. The company includes Retlaw and Alton . . . the Moncayos, Stone Bros., Ed. Cunningham and Kennedy. Prof. Blocker leads the band of eight pieces, while Frank B. Hubin manages the sideshow, which includes Capt. McIntosh . . . Jenta and Prof. Hubin's Punch and Judy. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.
    1891: From Dick's Circus. We are now working our way Southward, and in a few days will be in the state of Illinois. Business continues to be good. Slackey and Prof. Kennedy closed July 8, Mrs. Moncayo joined 18. The season will close about Oct. 15. Frank B. Hubin remains in charge of the sideshow, all reports to the contrary notwithstanding. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 328.
    1891: Notes from Dick's Model Circus. We are now in our seventeenth week, and business has been good ever since we opened. Everybody has received his money every week. We are now in Illinois. Prof. W. W. Jones, the balloonist, joined us lately, and has already made twenty ascensions. We have the following performers: Retlaw and Alton, Eddie Cunningham, the Three Moncayos, Little Maudie Sutton, Al. White, the Two Stone Bros. and John Meyers' school of educated horses. Our sideshow is run by Senator Frank B. Hubin, with the following people: Mille Jenna (snake enchantress), Midget Pony . . . and Prof. Hubins (Punch and magic). Will H. Retlaw is principal clown, and is always well received. His wife (Annie Girard), has been visiting the show. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
    1891: F. S.(?) Moncayo and his wife and daughter are with Dick's Circus. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 469.
    1891: Frank B. Hubin, sideshow manager, closes with Dick's Circus Sept. 2?, and joins the Van Amburgh Show. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
    1891: J. ? Myers and Al. White are now traveling with Dick's Big Twenty-five Circus, join Sutton's Monster "Uncle Tom's Cabin" Oct. _. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
    1891: Notes from Dick's Circus. After twenty-two weeks we close a high successful and prosperous season at Amboy, Ill., Sept. 26. The following people will go with Sutton's "Uncle Tom's" Show: John Myer, Hans Blocker and Frank Townsend, while Rentlaw and Alton will play dates, also the Stone Bros., the Moncayos and Eddie Cunningham, with our hustling side show manager, Frank B. Hubin, will join the Van Amburgh Shows. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
    1891: Dick's Model Show closed their season at Amboy, Ill. Sept. 26. The tour is said to have been a prosperous one. Prof. Harry Streif(?), the balloonist has made twenty-one successful ascensions, which is said to beat the record for one season. He will play dates the balance of the season. The ohters of the show went their several ways. The Stone Bros. started for Denver, the Moncayos to Chicago . . . New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.

    1892: Plamondon, wire walker with the Richards Circus, dislocated his right shoulder through an accidental fall from a high wire at Three Oaks, Mich., May 5(?). New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.1892: Richard's Big Show began their tour at Michigan City, Ind., May 5, to reported good business. The roster: Dick P. Sutton, proprietor and manager; John Harpstrite, business agent; Harry Costello, equestrian director; Chancy Powell, Johnson Reed, P. Lemonda, and John Myer's trained ponies and horses. Our side show is run by Frank B. Hubin, which includes Millie Hubin, Prof. Jones, flying machines, monkeys, birds, sacred donkey; Prof. Hubin's Punch and trained birds. Our canvas is a 100ft. round top, with a 40ft. middle piece; side 70ft. obling with a big front. Prof. Jones makes daily balloon ascentions. Our band of twelve pieces is under the direction of Hans Blocker, while Frank B. Hubin runs all the privileges. Our concert is under charge of James Fields, and includes Mr. Graham, Sutton Sisters - Maude and Blache - Millie Hubin, Jim Fields and the Graham Sisters. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
    1892: Notes from Richards' Three Big Shows. We are still sailing along on the smooth waves of prosperity, though the rain has been something terrible. We have not missed a stand as yet, and everybody is well and happy. Our performers are Harry Costello, Louis Plomdon, Chancey Powell, the monkey man; W. M. Johnson, Frank Lovine, James Fields, John Myers and his school of highly educated horses. Our concert is in charge of Jim Fields and includes the Sutton Sistrs, Graham Sisters . . . Millie Hubin, R. Graham, Jim Fields and jubilee singers. Our sideshow and all privileges are run by Frank B. Hubin, with six assistants; Millie Hubin, circassian snake charmer; Levine, glass eater; Prof. Jones' flying ship; Prof. Hubin's magic and trained monkey and birds; while Hans Blocker leads our band of twelve pieces. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 194.
    1892: Frank B. Hubin has the sideshow and candy stand privileges with Richards' three big shows, making his second season with them. He has six assistants, and the sideshow includes Frank B. Hubin, manager and lecturer; Millie Hubin, circassian snake charmer, with her den of snakes; Colonel Grant, Prof. Hubin's trained monkey, sacred donkey and trained birds, ten in number; also magic and Punch and Judy. . . . New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
    1892: Frank B. Hubin, sideshow manager with Richards' Show, received a large boa constrictor, a trained monkey and some small animals last week, for his sideshow. He reports good business with the Richards Circus. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 308.
    1892: The Hubins, Frank and Millie, are still with the Richards Circus. This winter they will tour the East with several novelties, in conjunction with their Congress of Wonders and European Museum. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 372.

    1893: Wanted, for Richard's 3 Big Shows. To buy small troupe of well broke dogs, performing goats, monkeys, donkeys and ponies, sixty foot combination car, eighty foot top with middle pieces, lights, side show top with wall. Want man and wife to run side show and privileges, except games of chance, must furnish snakes, birds, monks, Punch, magic, circassian and paintings. Want to hear from Jack Myers, Louis Plamondon, Jennier Family, Monkey Powell, Burton, the dog man . . . Jim Norris, . . . musicians, trap drummer. Want bar team, will engage any good, novel act; want two good balloons, hot air. Show opens on or about May 4. Travel by rail, sleep in beds, eat at the table, salary once a week. . . . Dick P. Sutton. New York Clipper, January 21, 1893, p. 745.
    1893: Gus Henderson, equilibrist, has signed with the Richards Three Big Shows. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 832.
    1893: Richards' Three Big Shows opened their season at Burlington, Ia., May 9. The roster: D. P. Sutton and J. W. Harpstrite, proprietors and managers; S. P. Bowman, side show manager and lecturer; E. C. Davis, in charge of advance. Performers: Joe Parson, Clarinda Lowando, Harry Lamkins, John Sexton, Bennie Sexton, W. S. Gilbert . . . Harry Strief, Harry McDonnald, R.A. Graham . . . Dick Thomas, Chas. Wilson, Hans(?) Blocker, John Marshall, S. M. Laporte, Frank Townsend, S. V. Downs, Thos. Marshall, W. G.(?) Freeland, James Carter, Mrs. Sutton, Mrs. Harpstrite, Mrs. S. P. Bowman, Mrs. Harry McDonnald, Mrs. Joe Parsons, Maude Sutton, Edna Graham, Lillie Graham and Gracie Warren. Harry Strief and Millie Bertha are the outside attractions in their double balloon ascensions and parachute jumps, while Gracie Warrn and her bear dog Jack are the features in the concert. The show carried thirty-five head of stock. The big top is 90(?)ft., with two 40ft. middle pieces. The side show is __ft., with one 30ft. middle piece. The show travels by rail on five cars. They are headed for the Pacific Coast. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Richards', . . . Detroit MN June 6, Moorehead 7 . . . Castleton ND 9, Valley City 10. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.

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F. J. Taylor's - 1889, 1890-94, 1900

    1889: Following is the roster of F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus, Museum and Menagerie, 1889: F. J. Taylor, proprietor and manager; Dick Hunter, general business manager in advance; Wm. Hyatt and six assistants, billposters; Walt McCafferty, Chas. A. Taylor, Dan McKenzia, Chas. Howett equestrian director, with the following people in the dressing room: F. Rollins and son, J. W. Moore and wife, John Nelson and wife, Bishop Bros., Frank Elliot, Fred Wilson, Mrs. Kate Howett, Frank Nichols, Ed. Dupray, George Francis . . . Sideshow - W. H. Wren, Geo. Wren, Miss Wren, Spotted Ed. and wife, Ed. Lapell, . . . F. J. Royce, boss canvasman, with eleven assistants; J. Kiley, boss hostler, with twelve assistants; Mr. Horton, with four assistants, properties; Mrs. Setchell, wardrobe lady, and Chas. Miller and five assistants, in the cook tent. The show travels by wagon, has one hundred horses and everything new, an 80 ft. top with two 30 ft. middle pieces, menagerie top, and a 76 x 40 ft. sideshow canvas. It starts April 30 and travels through Missouri, Kansas and Kentucky. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889.
    1889: "Down in Front!" was the cry at ex-Mayor Taylor's circus last week. On Tuesday last Creston's own and only circus was cut loose. . . . On Wednesday the show went to Afton, . . . The Afton Reporter has this to say: F. J. Taylor's circus, menagerie and museum arrived from Creston at an early hour this morning and have their tents pitched on the old show grounds in the south part of town. The parade took place as advertised at 12:30 o'clock and was a fine display. The band is good and everything indicates that Mr. Taylor fully understands his position as manager. . . . One feature indicative of a first class institution is the fine horses accompanying this show. New Era (Humeston, IA), September 18, 1889. F. J. Taylor’s winter quarters in Creston, Ia. . . . New York Dramatic News, January 13, 1891.

    1890: F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus, Museum and Menagerie open their season April __, at Creston, Ia. Following is the roster: F. J. Taylor, Chas. Taylor, Bertie(?) Taylor, Walt. McCafferty . . . Dick Hunter, general advance agent . . . Jno. Nelson and wife, W. E. Rolland . . . Jno. Ruth, Sig. Harris, C. P. Watson, Maj. Fred Wilson, Fred Harris . . . G. W. Young . . . Y. C. Westland . . . J. J. Cooke master of canvas with twelve assistants, and Geo.(?) Rickett boss hostler with twenty grooms and drivers. The show is enlarged to twice its former size, and everything is new. New York Clipper, April 19, 1890, p. 91.
    1890: The Farnum Bros., who were seriously injured by a fall while doing their specialty with F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus at Rising City, Neb., June 28, are now convalescent at their homes, Pawtucket. James sustained a severe injury to the spinal chord and Richard had one of the smaller bones of his left hand broken. They hope to be able to take the road again in November. Richard’s wife, Josie Farnum, is still with the show. New York Clipper, August 16, 1890, p. 357.
    1890: Wanted, side show privilege with reliable show going South. Have complete outfit, and can furnish riding monkey for big show and two good turns for concert. Salary or percentage. Address W. H. Rehn, care of F. J. Taylor’s Circus, Creston, Iowa. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 396.
    1890: The F. J. Taylor Show closed a successful season at Greenfield, Ia., Oct. 11(?). Everybody was well pleased, and the man in white appeared regularly. New York Clipper, November 1, 1890, 539.
    1890: W. S. Wheeler has signed with Taylor’s Circus and Menagerie for next season. New York Clipper, December 27, 1890, p. 661.

    1891: The Three Costello Bros., acrobats, and Winnie Costello, aerialist, are successfully playing [the] Pacific Coast Circuit. They will return East in April, to go out with F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus. New York Clipper, January 3, 1891, p. 676.
    1891: F. J. Taylor’s Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Wanted, 10 musicians, __ billposters, boss hostler, __ good four horse drivers, chandelier man, two animal men, one or two freaks, good snare drummer that can do two turns in concert. Musicians address Marshall Bros., Portage, Wis. Tommy Nichols and George Ricket, write. F. J. Taylor, Creston, Iowa. New York Clipper, January 31, 1891, p. 750.
    1891: Minnie Castello, of the Castello Family, left Portland, Ore., Feb. 23, for a short visit to her home, Bay City, Mich. Later she will join her husband, Wm. Castello, at Creston, Ia., where the family open with F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus, April 23. New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
    1891: Notes from J. Taylor’s Great American Circus. Everyone around the winter quarters is working like a beaver, preparing for the coming season. Everything is brand new - canvas, wagons, harness, etc. During the winter numerous new features have been added. Three new advance wagons, three new cages of animals, a new ticket wagon, an elephant, two camels and other additions will make the show about twice its former size. The roster: F. J. Taylor, proprietor and manager; C. A. and Bert Taylor, assistant managers; Chas. Snyder, treasurer; Dick Hunter, general agent and contractor; Park Kelly, Grant White, Oliver Burr, D. S. Allen . . . J. Smith and W. Moore, advance corps; J. L.(?) Davenport, Stick Davenport, Castello Bros., Minnie Castello, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Bennett, J. Abbey . . . W. S. Wheeler, ?. W. Myers, Clyde Ingerham, W. McCafferty, T. P. Ambrose, John Schieldler and wife, J. Boyd Clayton and Da??, J. Marshall, T. Marshall, H. Marshall, C. B. Reed, Phil Scharth . . . Millard Neff, J. Ward . . . Chas. Raymond . . . John Smith . . . J. Jones, J. M. C??ett, W. Benson . . . Walter Scott . . . John Smiley . . . G. F. Brady, C. Coleman, S. Grover, ?. P. Markham, Peter Wade, T. Kelly, J. Leamon, C.(?) F.(?) Beard, Robt. Hughes . . . The show takes the road April __. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 74.
    1891: Sam Bennett and wife joined T. J. Taylor’s Circus April 11. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 92.
    1891: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s Omaha, Neb, May 13, 14, South Omaha 15, 16 . . . New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 171.
    1891: F. J. Taylor’s Circus opened the season in Creston, Ia., May 4, with the following performers: Three Castello Brothers, acrobats and horizontal bar performers; Charles Myers, balloon, wire and balance trapeze; Minnie Castello, flying rings and trapeze; Bishop Brothers, tumblers, acrobats and double trapeze; Don Divo, contortionist; Jerome Abbey, equilibrist and juggler; Albert Davenport, principal rider;; Sam Bennett, hurdle and Indian rider; W. S. Wheeler, clown; William Davenport, ring master, and John Marshall’s band of nine pieces. The show travels by wagon, carries 100 people, 105 horses, one elephant, three camels, five cages, and has a 100 foot round top, with two 30 foot middle pieces. New York Dramatic News, May 23, 1891.
    1891: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s . . . Lincoln Neb. May 21, 22, Milford 23 . . . New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
    1891: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Wilber, Neb. May 27. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
    1891: The F. J. Taylor Show has been out thirteen weeks, and the business up to date has been very gratifying to the management, this being the most prosperous season the company has ever enjoyed. Many additions have been mae to the various departments, notably the purchasing of ten head of heavy, handsome draft horses, making one hundred and thirty-two head all told; a new side show wagon and a splendid new tableau wagon for the parade. The roster: Chas. Snyder, treasurer; John Davenport, equestrian director; John Marshall, musical director; Walt McCaffrey, master of privileges; Charles M. Baldwin, boss hostler; G. F. Brady, boss canvasman and G. H. Hahn, assistant; P. B.(?) McPherson, steward; Shan(?) Coleman, chandelier man; Harry St. Claire, boss canvasman of the Kid show and Billy Werms, animal man. The dressing room contains Tom Ambrose, ring master; Albert Davenport, principal rider; the Costello Bros., brother act and bars; William Costello, principal leaper and tumbler; Sam Bennett, jockey hurdle rider; Billy Wheeler, principal clown; Bishop Bros., trapeze and brother act; Chas. Meyers, slack wire and balancer; Jerome Abbey, barrel kicker and juggler . . . Minnie Costello, aerialist; Mme. Davenport, vocalist; Bertie and May Davenport, vocalists and dancers; Lydia Bennett, soubrette, and Mlle. Sorelta, second sight. The show consists of one hundred and ten people, one hundred and thirty-two head of horses, two elephants and six camels, including the baby camel, now five weeks old, and is more a pleasure party than a financial enterprise. The Costellos received a pleasant visit from their brother, Charles Costello, of Chicago. The harvest does not seem to impede the business of the show in this section, as full houses are a daily occurrence. Dick Hunter and Charles Taylor have charge of the advance, and have displayed admirable ability in selecting the route. We met the Dick Sutton Show between Tipton and Mechanicsville, Ia., July 23, and the stock of both shows were watered at the same well. New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 364.
    1891: Notes from the F. J. Taylor Circus. The season for us is half over, and, if the last half is as good as the first, it will be the most successful in the history of the organization. Everybody is well and happy, and all are doing business at the big window of the post office. J. L. Davenport is our dressing room director, while Stick Davenport is riding like a finished equestrian. His forward and back somersaults never fail to bring down the house. Billy Wheeler is tickling the bucolic mind(?), and repeating his former success as a popular clown. Sam Bennett deserves the hearty applause he receives at every performance for his really daring hurdle act. The Castello Bros., the noted acrobats, who signed for twelve weeks, left at the expiration of their contract and joined the Wallace Show, agreeable to arrangements made last winter. All privileges are doing exceedinly well. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
    1891: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor, Brush Creek, Ia. Aug 12, Oelwein 13, Jessup 14, La Porte 15, Dysart 17 . . . Gladbrook 21 . . . New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 386.
    1891: Notes from the F. J. Taylor Shows. Our season has been a good one, and everybody from the manager down wear a look of contentment. Rain or shine, poor business or good, it has been just the same to manager Taylor. He never says one word, but runs his hand in his pocket and pays, with a smile, the money due his people. Our season is drawing to a close, and it won’t be long before the parting will take place, as it did in days of yore. At Creston, Ia., Oct. 30, 1891, we will part after a six month’s season, to go our different ways. Little May Davenport was called in the ring by T. P. Ambrose, who, on behalf of the workingmen, handed the little girl a beautiful gold watch and chain. Abbey Wheeler and Marshall will run their own company. Sam Roney Bennett has bought an interest in the Thomas Vaudevilles, the Farnums will play dates, the Bishops, La Moynes and Don Divo(?) will work the theatres during the winter. John L. Davenport Sr. and his talented family will occupy their own handsome home in the World’s Fair city. . . . Mrs. Sam Bennett will join her husband’s company, Chas. Snider will return to Creston, Ia., and Manager J. F. Taylor will spend the winter at his home. Dick Hunter, the agent, will go in advance of Abbey, Wheeler and Marshall. Add Yale returns to his home, Milwaukee, Wis. Tom Ambrose will go South. New York Clipper, October 31, 1891, p. 569.
    1891: Providence, Rhode Island. The Farnum Bros. go with F. J. Taylor’s Circus next season. Fred Welcome and John Batchellor, the old time leaper, have signed to go with that show. New York Clipper, December 26, 1891, p. 705.

    1892: The Bennetts, riders and gymnasts, have been re-engaged with Taylor’s American Circus for 1892. New York Clipper, January 9, 1892, p. 728.
    1892: F. J. Taylor’s Great American Circus, Museum and Menagerie, now in winter quarters at Creston, Ia., is to be enlarged to twice its former size, and with everything new for next season. There will be a 100ft. round top tent with two __ft. middle pieces, two elephants, five camels and eleven cages of animals. The following is the executive staff: F. J. Taylor, sole owner and manager . . . Chas. A. Taylor, director of advance No. 1; L. A. Taylor, treasurer; F. A. Taylor, door keeper; John G. Scheidler, manager side show; W. McCafferty, master of privileges; G. F.(P.?) Brady, master of canvas. The show will open the season at Creston about April __. New York Clipper, January 9, 1892, p. 728.
    1892: John G. Scheidler, sideshow manager, and his wife, Millie Sorella, mind reader and snake charmer, have been re-engaged with F. J. Taylor’s Circus for the coming season. They are now in Ohio, with their Eden Musee. . . . New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 763.
    1892: W. J. Batten left Scheidler’s Eden Musee last week, to rest at Chicago a few weeks before joining F. J. Taylor’s Circus, to take charge of the elephants. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 3.
    1892: Harry Wilson, leaper and tumbler, joins Taylor’s Circus, at Creston, Ia. Wm. De Van, hurdle rider, also joined. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
    1892: Nellie, daughter of Lon and Fannie Moore, was presented with several handsome presents March 9, her eighth birthday. Among the gifts were a pair of earrings and feather fan. The Moores have finished their ladder act. Mr. Moore has in preparation a new song book to offer the patrons of the F. J. Taylor Show, which he is engaged with to do principal and singing clown, also Mrs. Moore and Nellie to furnish three acts for the big show. Mr. Moore will join hands with Chas. Gardner Jr. after the tenting season to do a singing and comedy act for the Fall and Winter season. Mr. Gardner has also signed with the F. J. Taylor Shows, to work in the concert. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
    1892: On April 28(?), the F. J. Taylor Great American Shows will open their fifth season at Creston, Ia. During the winter the show has been remodeled and enlarged in every department. The roster: F. J. Taylor, sole owner and manager; A.(?) L. Taylor, treasurer; F. A. Taylor, doorkeeper; C. A. Taylor, charge of advance No. 1, with ten bill posters; Dick Hunter, contractor; Ad. Funk, programmer, with two assistants; Geo. Hill, lithographer; Dick Farnum and wife, James Farnum and wife, Lon Moore and wife, Little Nellie Moore, T. ?. Ambrose . . . Fred Welcome . . . Alf Dorian, John Batchelor, James Kincaid, Wm. Devan . . . Band - John Marshall, Tom Marshall, Henry Marshall, Ad. Vradenburg . . . J. H. Bishop, C. C. Williams . . . H. Wise . . . Will Long and ?. T. Baker. Walt McCafferty has charge of privilege; J. G. Scheidler, charge of annex; G.(?) F. Brady, master of canvas, with sixteen assistants; S.(?) C.(?) Preston, boss hostler, with twenty-six drivers . . . Lee Coleman, chandelier, with three assistants; Geo. Douglas, steward; F. Long, cook, with six assistants . . . New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
    1892: 1892: John G. Scheidler closed his Eden Musee Co. April 16(?) to join F. J. Taylor’s Circus, where he will take charge of the sideshow. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 117.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Clarinda IA May 4, Shenandoah 5, Randolph 6 . . . Council Bluffs 10, Omaha Neb 11. New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 135.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylors’ Omaha Neb. May 11, South Omaha 12, Louisville 13 . . . New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
    1892: Roster of the sideshow with F. J. Taylor’s Shows: F. J. Taylor, proprietor; John G. Scheidler, manager; F. P. Ambrose, Sig. Sorata, Millie Sorella, Zola Zuletta, Mysterious Boreo(?) and Oneo; also Molack, the giant horse, and a cage of birds and monkeys. Jess(?) Parker has charge of canvas with four assistants. A sixty foot round top with forty foot middle piece and sixteen new double decker painting and a band of six pieces. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Taylor’s, Lawrence KS June 23 . . . New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 248.
    1892: Notes from the F. J. Taylor Circus. We have had a hard pull through the mud, and such mud as was never seen before. We were one week at Nebraska City, water bound, and could not get out by either rail or wagon road for several days. Since then the show has been doing good business. We carry this season 100ft. round top, with a __ft. middle piece; one 80ft. round top, with two 30ft. middle pieces; 110 head of horses, eight cages of animals with an open den of lions, four camels and one elephant. Chang Brady, boss canvas man, has twenty assistants. Lee Coldman, with two assistants, look after the lights, and Dick Brown, boss hostler, has twenty-four assistants. The roster: F. J. Taylor, owner and manager; Dick Hunter, general agent; Dick Farnum, equestrian director; James King, John F.(P.?) Batchelor, William Devan, Fred Welcome, Lon Moore, Don Divo, Abe Bishop, George Payne, Charles Gardner, James Farnum, Dick Farnum, Harry Wilson, Mrs. Josie Farnum, Mrs. Fanny Moore, Nellie Moore, Mrs. James Farnum, Mrs. Abe Bishop, Mrs. J.Schidler, Mrs. Walter McCafferty, Walter McCafferty, John G. Schidler, William Farnum Jr., Prof. John Marshall, Thomas Marshall, H. Vradenbargh(?), J. Bishop, C. Williams, W. Neff . . . Crawfored C.(?) Gardner, Thos. Devine, F.(P.?) Melville, N. P. Harper and others. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Axtell Neb. June 29 . . . Wilcox July 1, Bloomington 2, Alma 4, Beaver City 5, Arrapahoe 6, Cambridge 7. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Arrapahoc, Neb. July 6, Cambridge 7, Iadianola 8, McCook 9, Oberlin KS 11, Norcatur 12, Norton 13. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Norton KS July 13, Long Island 14, Logan 15 . . . Kirwin 18, Stockton 19. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Osborne KS July 21, Downs 22, Lebanon 23, Red Cloud Neb. 25, Burr Oak KS 26, Mankato 27. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 300.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Mankato KS July 27, Cortland 28, Scandia 29, Concordia 30, Delphos Aug 1 . . . Clay Centre 3. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s . . . Leonardville KS Aug 4, Randolph 5, Waterville 6, Marysville 8 . . . Liberty NE 10. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Pawnee City Neb. Aug 11, Humboldt 12, Stella 13, Aubrun 15, Tecumseh 16, Sterling 17, Palmyria 18. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 361.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Sterling Neb. Aug 17, Palmyria 18, Syracuse 19, Talmage 20, Hamburg IA 22, Sidney 23. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 376.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s Walnut IA Aug 31 . . . Manning Sep 3 . . . New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 409.
    1892: On the road, circuses: F. J. Taylor’s, Stratford Ia. Sep 14. New York Clipper, September 17, 1892, p. 443.
    1892: F. J. Taylor's Circus closed the season Oct. 26, at ___, Mo. John G. Scheidler, sideshow manager, and Mlle Sorella closed their season of twenty-six week with F. J. Taylor's Circus, on October 25, 1892. They opened at the Eden Musee, Creston, Ia., October 31. New York Clipper, November 5, 1892, pp. 554, 557.

    1893: The Jennier Family have signed with F. J. Taylor’s Great American Two Ring Circus and Colossal Menagerie for next season. . . . Little Maud was presented with a pair of diamond earrings by the performers and attaches at the Summit Theatre, Newport, Ky. New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 755.
    1893: Lon Moore closed with Lake & North’s Circus at Tampa, Fla., Feb. 2, and is now at his home, Defiance, O. His wife, daughter and himself are in active rehearsal for the coming season. They have re-engaged with the F. J. Taylor Circus, Mr. Moore to do principal clowning, while Mrs. Moore and their little daughter, Nellie, will furnish a number of acts. New York Clipper, February 18, 1893, p. 800.
    1893: Everything is lively at the Winter quarters of F. J. Taylor's Shows at Creston(?), Ia. The season will open April 27 with a much larger outfit than ever before. The painters are busy getting the cages and wagons ready for the road. Everything around the show will be brand new. Canvasses: Main show - 100ft.(?) round top, with two 50 ft. middle pieces. Menagerie - 70ft. round top with two 30 ft. middle pieces. Side show - 50 ft. round top, with a 20 ft. middle piece. In the menagerie department will be two elephants, six camels, one llama and seven cages of animals. The roster: F. J. Taylor, sole proprietor and manager; L. A. Taylor, treasurer; C. A. Taylor, press agent; Dick Hunter, general agent; Louis Elliott, contracting agent; . . . John Callahan, in charge of firs tbrigade with ten men; L. B. Reed, in charge of second brigade with six men; C. A. Miller, advertising program; Add Vradenburg, band master with twelve men; Lee Coleman, superintendent of canvas with sixteen men; Harry St. Clair, in charge of sideshow canvas, with four assistants; G. Gropes(?), superintendent properties with six assistants; Brjock Sport, in charge of stock with twenty-four men; Harry Murray, superintendent of animals, with four assistants. . . . Edd. Shipp, equestrian director; Julia Lowanda, Al. Lowanda, LOn Moore and family, Farnum and Welcome, Jenier Family, four in number, Eddie Shipp, Knard Bros., J. W. Keechel, Smith and Leon, Edgar and wife . . . New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.
    1893: Notes from F. J. Taylor’s Circus. This show opened to packed tents at Creston, Ia., April 27, and we are now in our fourth week of uninterrupted success. Our programme is long and varied, and is rendered by the following people: Edward Shipp, equestrian manager; Julia Lowanda, Alex. Lowanda, Lon Moore and family, Geo. Jennier and family, Farnum and Welcome, the Two Geyers, Stone Bros., Frank Taylor and Ed. Keech. In the sideshow are Prof. Fostello, Mrs. Fostello . . . Prof. Vernon and others. Everybody about the show is well and happy. Only one thing has happened to mar the pleasure of our trip thus far. An accident which happened to Edward Shipp, during the riding of his jockey act, resulting in the breaking of one of his legs. This occurred at Malvern, Ia., May 5(?). Mr. Shipp was left there, in care of his mother and brother members of the K. of P., who are giving him all possible care and attention. He is progressing nicely, and will be able to resume his position of equestrian manager in a few weeks. During his absence, the position is being creditably filled by Geo. Jennier. This is one of the largest and best equipped wagon shows on the road, having one hundred and twenty head of fine stock, all in splendid condition. Our parade is something brilliant, and the admiration of the multitudes who behold it daily. The call for "extras" is almost a daily occurrence in the big top, and on several different occasions we have closed the ticket wagon early, turning hundreds away for want of seating capacity and standing room. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
    1893: Want a hurdle or bounding jockey rider with or without stock. Address F. J. Taylor, Beaver City, Neb., June 2 . . . Oberlin, Kas. 6 . . . New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 211.
    1893: Wanted, all kinds of circus performers, for T. J. Taylor’s Circus. Address per route Lexington 14 . . . Calioway 16, Broken Bow 17 . . . Ord 20 . . . St. Paul 22. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 245.
    1893: Notes from F. J. Taylor’s Circus. Everything is booming and business continues big. Several incident have happened since our opening to furnish comment from superstitious people. On Friday, April 28(?), Mr. Shipps lost his riding mare, "Fanny." On Friday, May 3(?), Mr. Shipp broke his leg at Malvern, Ia. On Friday, May 26(?), Mrs. Shipp’s riding mare "Lady" died, and On June 13(?), in making the drive from Arapahoe(?) to ___, a runaway occurred in which our treasurer, Mr. Morrison, and Bert Taylor, assistant manager, narrowly escaped death. . . . we are all anxiously looking forward to the return of our equestrian manager, Ed. Shipp, which will no doubt be soon now, as his broken leg is mending rapidly. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
    1893: Notes from F. J. Taylor’s Circus. Business continues big, everybody is well and happy, and the stock looks well. The show is giving good ___, and the only cause for disapointment is occasioned by the fact that some weeks our Clippers arrive a day late. . . . Wm. De Van, hurdle and Indian rider, joined at ___, and is riding in splendid form. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: Notes from F. J. Taylor’s Circus. We are now in our thirteenth week, and business has been uniformly big since our opening day. On July 13 at cub was born to our lioness, Julia. Our band, under the direction of Prof. Ad. Vrandenburg, is one of the pleasing features of the parade. The principal bareback riding act of Julia Lowande, the hurdle act of Wm. De Van and the aerial acrobatic act of Farnum and Welcome are the features of the big show. Lon Moore keeps the audience, as well as the dressing room, in a constant state of merriment. The Stone Bros. are doing a good brother act. Alex. Lowande’s bounding rope act is unique and pleasing. Fred Welcome’s balancing trapeze act is very "taking." Little Nellie Moore captivates the audience with her evolutions on the silver wire. The Geyers are doing creditable work with their Egyptian juggling and rolling globe acts. The Stone Bros. and Lon Moore are pleasing features in the concert, while Prof. Vernon is one of the many attractions in the sideshow. We have had two or three severe wind storms, but, luckily, so far have escaped without losing a foot of canvas or anybody sustaining any injury. The entire dressing room is in a state of pleasant anticipation regarding the return fo our equestrian director, Ed. Shipp, which is expected at Silver City, July 26(?), his broken leg having mended sufficiently to sustain his weight once more. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
    1893: Notes from F. J. Taylor's Circus. Everybody is well and happy, and the show is doing a good business. Geo. Jennier is doing a splendid barrel, table and cross act. Mrs. Moore, balancing traps; the two Jenniers in a fine posturing act; Ed. Keech, flying sailor perch and contortion act; Geo. and Maude Jennier, sensational double trapeze; and the Moores, Fanny and Nellie, breakaway ladder act. Master Frank Taylor is ddoing a great two pony act. In the concert are Chas. Gardner, Little Nellie Moore, the Jennier children, and Mrs. Jennier. In the sideshow: the Fostellos, Thos. P.(?) Ambrose, the veteran ringmaster, displays his usual good judgment in "laying out" the people at hotels. The canvas is under the care of Lee Coleman, and the stock, in charge of Brock Short, is looking well. The advance: Dick Hunter, general agent; Louis A. Elliott, contracting agent; Geo. A. Bedee, managers of advance No. 1, with J. T. Callahan, Louis Martin . . . Ed. Case . . . and Grant Hubbell, billposters. T. B. Reed, manager of advance No. 2 . . . Chris Beck is programmer. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
    1893: The advertising brigades of F. J. Taylor's America's Greatest Shows. Dick Hunter, contracting agent; advance brigade No. 1: . . . Ely Grant, asst. lithographer; John ?. Callahan in charge of paper; Louis Martin and Frank Reid . . . Edw. W. Case, Grant Hubbe, in charge of stock, three wagons and 8 horses. Advance brigade No. 2: T. B. Reed, in charge; ___ and Chas. Paling, routes; Jas. McCue in charge of stock, two wagons and four horses; Lewis Elliott, route rider and publisher of official programme. Advance No. 3, with buggy and spotted horses. Brigade No. 1 are fifteen days ahead of the show, No. 2 are one week and No. 3 from three to five days ahead. Advance No. 1 went to the cemetery at Jefferson, Ia., Aug. 6(?), to visit the grave of Yankee Robinson, who is buried there. They visited the Forepaugh Show at Des Moines, 9. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 378.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Taylor's, Cascade IA Sep 20, Monticello 21, Wyoming 22 . . . Centre Point 26 . . . Gladbrook 29 . . . New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 461.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Taylor's, Vinton IA Sep 27 . . . Gladbrook 29 . . . New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 479.
    1893: F. J. Taylor & Son's Show disbanded at Gladbrook, Ia., with two week's ___ canceled, and the wagons were ___ one hundred and seventy-five miles to Creston, Ia. New York Clipper, October 28, 1893, p. 545.
    1893: Everything is lively at the Winter quarters of F. J. Taylor’s Shows at Creston, Ia. The season will open April 27 with a much larger outfit than ever before. The painters are busy getting the cages and wagons ready for the road. Everything around the show will be brand new. Canvasses: Main show - 100ft.(?) round top, with two 50 ft. middle pieces. Menagerie - 70ft. round top with two 30 ft. middle pieces. Side show - 50 ft. round top, with a 20 ft. middle piece. In the menagerie department will be two elephants, six camels, one llama and seven cages of animals. The roster: F. J. Taylor, sole proprietor and manager; L. A. Taylor, treasurer; C. A. Taylor, press agent; Dick Hunter, general agent; Louis Elliott, contracting agent; . . . John Callahan, in charge of first brigade with ten men; L. B. Reed, in charge of second brigade with six men; C. A. Miller, advertising program; Add Vradenburg, band master with twelve men; Lee Coleman, superintendent of canvas with sixteen men; Harry St. Clair, in charge of sideshow canvas, with four assistants; G. Gropes(?), superintendent properties with six assistants; Brjock Sport, in charge of stock with twenty-four men; Harry Murray, superintendent of animals, with four assistants. . . . Edd. Shipp, equestrian director; Julia Lowanda, Al. Lowanda, Lon Moore and family [prob. Nellie Moore], Farnum and Welcome, Jenier Family, four in number, Eddie Shipp, Knard Bros., J. W. Keechel, Smith and Leon, Edgar and wife . . . New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.

    1894: The Potters, equestrians and aerialists, have signed with the F. J. Taylor's Circus. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
    1894: Advance car No. 1, of F. J. Taylor's Circus, has the following people: Geo. A. Bedee, general agent; W. H. Hall, in charge of first advance; Louis Martin, in charge of paper with Chas. Pailing. Tobe Beers, Grant Hubble as assistants. H. R. Pottenger, lithographer and Brick Dumont, programmer. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 102.
    1894: Roster of F. J. Taylor's Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Executive staff: F. J. Taylor, sole proprietor and manager; C. A. Taylor, assistant manager; Bert Taylor, treasurer; N. B.(?) Morrison, ticket seller . . . Performers: Harry Potter and wife, the two Geyers, Jennier Family . . . Stone Bros., John Davenport . . . clowns Brevard, Delaporte and Martino(?); Prof. Ad. Vradenburg has the band with twelve mouth pieces, as follows: A. Vradenburg, Homer(?) Vradenburg, Joe Mitchell . . . Fred Taylor . . . Harry Blackford, O. Mullens . . . S. P. Bowman will run the side show. . . . W. Brady has charge of canvas with eighteen assistants; Winfield Scott has the stock with twenty-four assistants; W. P. McPherson has charge of cook tent with six assistants; Joe Groves, boss property man with four assistants; Lee Coleman, boss chandelier man. Things are rapidly assuming shape, and we will start out in better condition than ever before, with everything indicating a long and prosperous season. Winfield Scott has just returned from New York with eight coal black horses for the band wagon and a ___ of Shetland ponies for parade, a feature of which will be a gun spinning act, in Arab costume, by the two Geyers, on a large tableaux wagon in motion(?). Our menagerie consists of eight cages, two elephants, five camels, and a choice collection of birds, monkeys and snakes, making it the best wagon show that will tour the West this year. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
    1894: Notes from the Taylor Show. F. J. Taylor's Great American Circus opened at Creston, Ia., April 26(?). The big tent was packed afternoon and night. The performers include Geo. Jennier, dancing barrel, table and cross; Maud Jennier, slack wire; John Davenport, somersault riding act; the Two Geyers, Egyptian jugglers and running globes; Jennier children, double trapeze; Frank Taylor, two pony act; Harry Potter, high wire; Ella Potter, principal act; George Jennier and son, posturing act; Stone Bros., aerial acrobats; Eddie Cunningham, contortionist; the Potters, double trapeze; Park Melrose, bounding rope; Harry Potter, hurricane hurdle; Mrs. S. P. Bowman, trained dogs; Bervardo and Martino, clowns; Geo. Jennier, equestrian director; and Thos. P. Ambrose, ringmaster. S. P. Bowman has a splendid side show. Lee Coleman has charge of the canvas; R.(?) Rogers has the lights. Business has been big since the opening. Abe Bishop, clown . . . joined April 30(?). New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.

    1900: F. J. Taylor, of Creston, Iowa, will try it again this season under the style of the Great F. J. Taylor's Shows (incorporated). Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6.
    1900: F. J. Taylor's advance roster: contracting agent H. D. Parks; press agent and manager advance, Thomas Alton; lithographer, H. W. Turk; programmer, Otto Windell; boss bill poster, H. H. Graham; billposters: D. S. Perry, Jerry Moore, Bud Smith, A. L. Hoover, Henry Campbell, Sig. benson; hostlers with Nos. 1 and 2, Clarence Downey and Charlie Dunn. Billboard June 23, 1900, p. 5.

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

Tedrow & Gettle's - 1900

    Tedrow & Gettle's 25-cent show is now seven weeks out. With the show: Tedrow & Gettle; Sutton, Smith & Morris, clowns; Band: T. H. Rice, leader, E. Williams, J. E. Jones, P. H. Hawk, W. H. Jacobs, G. Tennyhill, J. R. collins, H. M. Patton; Orchestra: Prof. Williams, leader, W. H. Jacobs, J. R. Collins. Performers: The Suttons, man wife and daughter; E. Porterfield; Gladys, Mitchell, Robert Bolliger; Dock Moria; Chas. Barker; Fred Dew, high dive into a net. Side show: Mrs. Sutton's snakes; Miss Gladys Mitchell, sword walker; Jasper Johnson, strong man; E. Porterfield, magician and Punch; Miss Esther Smith, futures and fortunes; the Getties, Mexican knife throwing. Blondy Robinson has charge of canvas. Charles Barker, chandeliers; Doc John Dye, stock; R. W. Perkins, agent; W. J. Kelly, bill poster; E. E. Porter, programer; W. K. Smith, lithographer. Billboard June 23, 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.

Teets Bros. - 1890-94, 1898

    1890: On the Road, Circuses: Teets Bros., in Alabama. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 370.
    1890: Fred H. Gellen, general agent of the Teets Bros.’ Show, has a new four horse advance wagon. This show is to continue in the South the entire summer. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
    1890: On the Road, Circuses and Miscellaneous: Teet’s Bros., Port Vincent, La. Dec. 3, French Settlement 4, Dutch Town, 5. New York Clipper, December 6, 1890, p. 611.

    1891: Prof. F. H. Gellen, general advance agent of Teets Bros.’ Show, left Jan. 1, to join ___ Floating Theatorium, 3, as general agent. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 709.
    1891: Wanted at once, for Teet’s Bros.’ New Shows, gymnasts, musicians and specialty people Would like to hear from good song and dance and serio comic ladies. Teets Brothers’ New Shows, Kingston, Tenn. for next ten days. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 225.

    1892: Wanted, for Teets Bros.’ New Shows. People in all branches of the circus profession. Riders who can furnish their own stock. Gymnasts and acrobats. Also people for concert. Show opens May _, 1892. Address Hazel Green, Ky. Gabe Boon write. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 93.
    1892: Teet’s Bros.’ Show reports good business in the South. Fremont and D? Carlo and Harry McDonald and wife have joined the troupe. New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 543.

    1893: Teet Bros.’ Wagon Shows are touring the south. George W. Richards and his trained animal paradox consisting of ponies, donkeys, dogs, monkeys and goats, have recently joined. Jack Shumate has charge of the canvas and stock, and is breaking some ponies. W. H. Fremont has charge of the advance, with two assistants. After showing Florida they will go down the Apalachicola River to Apalachicola, and are contemplating a trip to Cuba after they play the coast towns of Florida. New York Clipper, January 7, 1893, p. 702.
    1893: W. H.(?) Fremont closed an engagement with Teets Bros. & Richards’ Show in the South. New York Clipper, April 8, 1893, p. 68(?).

    1894: Want for Teets Bros.' New Show. People in all ___ of circus business and concert people doing two or more acts, band of five mouth pieces. Long season. . . . Address Teets Bros.' New Show, Hazel Green, Wolf County, Ky. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 124.
    1894: The Bob Robinson Specialty Co. will close season at Paris, Ky. Geo. Parento joins Cullins' Circus. Bob Robinson and the rest of the company will join the Teets Bros.' Circus. Mr. Robinson will manage the show. Master Harry Robinson, son of Bob Robinson, was thrown from a bicycle recently and broke his collar bone. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.

    1898: Hill and Hill and Manning and Emery closed with the show [Blue Mountain Joe] at Wilmington to join Teets Bros.’ Circus at Newbern. New York Clipper, March 26, 1898, p. 61.
    1898: The Teet Bros.’ show was at Harmony [NC] about two weeks ago. Deputy Sheriff Ward was in doubt in regard to the amount of tax they were required to pay and wnt to Tarnersburg and called up Sheriff Wycoff through the ‘phone. They were required to pay $10. The show is a good one for the price of admittance - 25 cents - and the men composing it seem to be gentlemen. Semi-Weekly Landmark (Statesville, NC), August 9, 1898.

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Terrell Bros. - 1889, 1891

    1889: Season of 1889. Terrell Bros. Circus lost 20 horses, burned to death on a ferry-boat which caught fire at Oquawka, Ill., as the show was crossing the Missouri river. “Important Fires of Circus History,” By A. Morton Smith, Hobbies, September, 1944, pp. 24-25.

    1891: Wanted for the Terrell Bros. Brand New Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Exhibition of Trained Animals and Kentucky Horses. Sober and reliable performers in all branches for the big show and concert, riders with or without stock, boss canvasman, boss hostler, chandelier man and animal man, four and six horse drivers, good band of eight mouthpieces. Travel by wagon, stop at hotels. Want to buy any good healthy animals to complete menagerie. Also want A 1 advance agent and billposters. Sideshow, candy, balloon and other privileges for sale. Address Terrell Bros., Paducah, Ky. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 765.
    1891: Billy Monroe has closed with the Terrell Bros., for whom he had been acting as trainer for their troupe of horses. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 6.
    1891: Paducah, Kentucky. G. C. Hammond and W. S. Martin are in the city, putting the finishing touches to the cages and other paraphernalia of the Terrell Bros. Show. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 6.
    1891: Paducah, Kentucky. Ben J. Settle has signed as treasurer with Terrill Bros.’ Circus. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 6.
    1891: Paducah, Kentucky. In spite of the fact that the Turell [sic] Bros. are advertising their circus property for sale, they are making every preparation to start out early in April. There has been trouble brewing for some time among the owners of the show, and the sale of the property will be made in order to satisfy the dissatisfied members of the company. It is an open fact that the property will be bought in by the present officers, who will then enlarage and otherwise increase the show. New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 49.
    1891: Wanted, for Terrell Bros.’ Brand New Shows, a few more performers, concert people who can play brass or drums for band, boss canvasman and chandelier man, also a few more experienced bill posters . . . Side show, candy and other small privileges for sale. Travel by wagon. Address, Terrell Bros.’ Co., Paducah, Ky. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 70.
    1891: The Terrell Bros.’ Co. is the name of the new firm that takes out the Terrell Show this season. Leslie La Salle will have charge of the advance, assisted by Wm. Doris. Among the performers are Rob. Raymond, Clarence Robinson and the De Almo(?) Family. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 76.
    1891: Wanted, a good brother act who can work bars and tumble. Also a good, reliable boss hostler and four horse drivers. Show opens May 7 at Paducah. Address Terrell Bros., Paducah, Ky. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 148.
    1891: Terrell Bros.’ Show opens the season at Paducah, Ky., May 7. Jack Shields will manage the sideshow. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
    1891: Cincinnati, Ohio. Capt. Wesley(?) S. Baum (tattooed man) and Miss Lulu (tattooed lady), with their tattooed dog, Nellie Bly, leave to join the Terrell Bros.’ Show, which opens the season at Paducah, Ky., May 7(?). New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 155.
    1891: Terrell Bros.’ Circus opened their season at Paducah, Ky., May 7 to tremendous business. The following is the roster of the show: Terrell Bros., proprietors; Fletcher Terrell, manager; Artie Shields, treasurer; J. D. De Alma, equestrian manager . . . John Kelly, boss canvasman; J. R. Williams, assistant, with twenty five canvasmen; Melrose Bros.; De Alma Family; Chas. H. Holland and wife . . . James Welch . . . Tommy Clark; Prof. Jas. De Alma; the Chicks; The Raymonds; Josie Hall . . . M. Johnson; R. E. Hodges . . . Ray Crigler; James Malone . . . J. ?. Shields; W. S. Baum . . . New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 167.
    1891: . . . horses are superb and are one of the main features of this show. The various baggage wagons brought up the rear, and everything united to make up a display that would reflect credit on an older circus than this. On the grounds everything was neat, new, and was up in good shape. In the way of tents the show is well equipped, carrying a one-hundred-foot round top, two fifty-foot middle pieces, a large horse and cook tent, and a big side-show canvas. The menagerie contains twelve cages of well-assorted animals. The show will travel entirely by wagons and carries, all told, 120 head of stock. The ring entertainment: The Melrose Brothers did some difficult acrobatic feats. Bob Welsh, contortionist, was fine. The D’Alma Sisters (Maud and Myrtle), did a daring and highly successful aerial act. Marlow and Castalette are a first-class horizontal bar team. Mme. D’Alma performed some difficult evolutions on the slack wire. John W. Parsons and wife were heartily applauded for their superb bareback and hurdle riding. Bob Raymond, principal clown, kept the people highly amused while he was in the ring, and was ably seconded by “Hop” Little, a new candidate for public favor. The educated horses, under the direction of Professor D’Alma, are exhibited several times throughout the entertainment, and are very fine indeed. In the concert, Carrie Hall, serio-comic, did a finished song-and-dance and was heartily applauded. John and Annie Chicks, eccentric comedy sketch team, did very clever work, and the rest of the concert people were exceptionally good. About 4,000 people attended the two opening performances, and gave the show a good send-off. The roster: Terrell Brothers, proprietors; Fletcher Terrell, manager; A. L. La Salle, advance; J. E. Flournoy, main door-tender; Jack Shields, manager of the sideshow; William Gleason, door-tender; Norman Bickler, in charge of privileges; Wm. Bailey, assistant; Professor D’Alma, ring-master; Melrose Brothers, Marlow and Castalette, John W. Parsons and wife, the D’Alma Family, Bob Welch, Bob Raymond and “Hop” Little, Carrie Hall, John and Annie Chicks, Weslley Balm and wife, tattooed people. Members of the band: Harry Crigler, leader; F. M. Johnson, R. E. Hedges, A. D. Gerin, Charles Clewell, Leroy Crigler, James Malone, J. C. Greerand and Bob Raymond. Mace Bodenheimer, steward, with four assistants; Charles Kelly, boss canvas man, with twenty-six assistants; George Wartenber, boss hostler, with ten grooms and thirty drivers; “Kid” Clark, chandelierman, with three assistants. New York Dramatic News, May 23, 1891, p. 6.
    1891: Terrell Bros.’ Brand New Shows opened the season at Paducah, Ky. (their permanent winter quarters), to packed tents May 7. . . . They carry one hundred and twenty-five head of fine Kentucky horses, twelve cages, two tableaux and two band wagons, two chariots, four tendem teams and thirty educated horses, ponies and mules. The roster: Terrell Bros. & Co., proprietors; John B. Terrell, president; Ed. C. Terrell, vice president; Sid Terrell, secretary; Fletcher Terrell, treasurer and general manager; Jas. F.(P.?) Fleming and A. L. La Salle, assistant managers; John De Alma, equestrian director; Mrs. John, Maud and Myrtle De Alma . . . Lizzie Hall, Mr. and Mrs. John Chick, Billy Welsch . . . Happy Little, Three Melrose Bros., Harry Crigler, band master, with fourteen musicians, J. H. (Jack) Shields has charge of the annex; Chas Kelly, boss canvasman, with twenty assistants; Wm. Clark, chandelier man, with two assistants; George Wartenber, boss hostler, with forty drivers and grooms . . . Artie Shiellds, ticket seller; Geo. ?. Knott, advance representative, with two assistans; Morgan A. Hulsey, boss billposter, with fourteen assistants, using five wagons. The show travels by wagon. Everything is brand new. They report big business since the opening. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 230.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Terrell Bros.’, Vermont, Ill June 11, Macomb 12, . . . New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 231.
    1891: Our Paducah, Ky. letter gives an account of the blow down of Terrell Bros.’ Circus and mentions the closing of Costello & Oatman’s Show. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
    1891: Paducah, Kentucky. A dispatch from Fletcher Terrell of the Terrell Bros.’ Circus, gives brief details of an unfortunate accident, which befel [sic?] the company at Henry(?), Ill. June 2?. The trained ___ of the company were quartered in the dressing tent when a cyclone struck the tent in which the horses were stabled, blowing it down and doing considerable damage . . . The canvas took fire from the gasoline lights and was entirely destroyed. In the scramble with followed all the finest trained horses belonging to the show were so badly burned that they have shipped here to be treated. The damage will amount to several hundred dollars to the management, but at last account they were going ahead as if nothing had happened and were doing a good business. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 300.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Terrell Bros.’ Farmer City, Ill.(?) July 9, Monticello 10, Tolopo 11, Areola 13, Oakland 14, Charleston 15, Toledo 16. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 301.
    1891: Wanted, for Terrell Bros.’ Circus, Museum, Menagerie, etc., performers to enlarge show. Must be able to do two or more acts. Show travels by wagon. Address Terrell Bros., Paducah, Ky. Permanent winter quarters. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 310.
    1891: On the road, circuses: Terrell Bros.’ Charleston, Ill July 13, Toledo 14(?). New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 313.
    1891: Paducah, Kentucky. Mace Bodenheimer returned 6 from the Terrell Bros.’ show with what remained of the stock that was burned in the recent accident to that party. Of the entire lot injured, but two reached here alive. . . . While the show is somewhat crippled by the loss, they are still enjoying fine patronage. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 316.
    1891: The De Dalma Family closed with the Terrell Bros. Show at Bushnell, Ind. last week. Leslie La Salle, having regained his health, is again traveling in advance of the show. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
    1891: Roster of the advance of Terrell Bros.’ Circus and Menagerie: A. L. La Salle, general agent; F. J. Sebree and Roy Nelson, assistants; M. A. Buisey(?), boss billposter, with the following assistants: Frank Patterson, John Reid, Wm. Herron . . . N. W. Haven . . . Jas. Stone, Jas. Moran . . . E.(?) L. McDonald, Frank Johnson, Chas. Adams, Sam Dougan and Frank Malone. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
    1891: Notes from the Terrell Bros.’ Circus. Mrs. Annie Chick celebrated her birthday Aug. 18(?), and was kindly remembered by several of the show. Among the presents received were a gold headed umbrella, a silver mounted make up box and other useful articles. All the members are well, and the show is doing a big business. Our dives are short ones, which tends to keep the boys lively. . . . New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 432.
    1891: Paducah, Kentucky. The Terrell Bros. Circus close their season here Oct. 11(?). New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 503.
    1891: Paducah, Kentucky. Leslie La Salle who had been in advance of the Terrell Bros.’ Circus returned to this city today. . . . The route covered over three thousand miles, which is remarkable for a new wagon show. Only two performances were missed, and no serious accidents were occurred thus far. The Terrell Bros. will close their season here, with a large balance on the right side, and this will be used to enlarge their operation for the next circus campaign. It is a foregone conclusion that Leslie La Salle who has ___ them so successfully this season will again be on advance. . . . New York Clipper, October 17, 1891, p. 539.
    1891: Notes from Terrell Bros.’ Show. The show closed a very satisfactory season of twenty-four weeks . . . and then went to Paducah, Ky., where it will go into its new winter quarters. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.
    Terrell Bros. Circus close their season 19 . . . The advance is already here and disbanded. The show will travel by rail next season. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, pp. 556-557.
    1891: La Salle and Armstrong, who traveled with Terrel [sic] Bros. Circus last summer, opened a museum at Paducah, Ky. Nov 2. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 619.

    1892: Terrell Bros. have sold all their wagons and tenting outfit, with the exception of their horses and wild animals, to McMahon & Smith, of Denver, Col. Terrell Bros. will secure a new and larger outfit for their railroad show in the Spring. New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 745.
    1892: Geo. Costello and Jos. McMahon, of Denver, Col., recently purchased the entire circus outfit of the Terrell Bros., with the exception of the horses. . . . Nothing definite can be learned as to what the Terrell Bros. will do, but it is stated thay will carry out their original plans and take out a railroad show, after purchasing an entire new outfit. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 779.
    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: It is now definitely understood that the Terrell Bros. will not put their circus on the road this season. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
    1892: The Terrell Bros. are as yet undecided as to whether they will tour their show this season or not, but as they sold their entire outfit, except the stock, a few weeks ago, the chances are that this season will go on without their show going out. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.

Paducah, Kentucky Directories, 1890-91:
Terrell Bros. & Co., proprietors; John B. Terrell, president; Ed. C. Terrell, vice president; Sid Terrell, secretary; Fletcher Terrell, treasurer and general manager
John B. Terrell; Edward C. Terrell; Albert S.; Fletcher Terrell. Office 129 S. 4th, Paducah, KY; Occupation: horse trainers.

Kentucky Death Records, 1852-1953. Place of death: McCracken Co., Paducah, KY. Fletcher Terrell; single; born June 12, 1866 at Paducah, KY. Father: Thomas Terrell, born VA. Mother: Mary Fletcher, born VA. Informant: Richard Terrell, Paducah, KY. Died, Sept. 20, 1944. Burial Oak Grove, Sept. 21, 1944.

Kentucky, Vital Statistics Original Death Certificates. Albert Sidney Terrell, Louisville, Jefferson Co., KY. Born 1862; age 63; married; retired; father Thos. Terrell born VA; mother Mary Fletcher, born VA; date of death Aug 1, 1925; buried Cave Hill, Kentucky.

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Harry Thayer's - 1890

    Thayer’s Circus is made up as follows: Harry Thayer & Co., proprietors; H. Thayer, business manager; J. W. Jones, treasurer; George Edgerton, equestrian director; Frank McFarland, advance and contracting agent, with five assistants; Frank A. Morton, leader of band of eight mouth pieces; George, Edward and Lee Lacompe, brother act; Richard Dupe and Mabel Sproule, contortionists . . . C. Edwards, Geo. Height and P. Montgomery, horizontal bars . . . May and Lillie Edgerton, aerialists and bird show; Charles Casey, knockabout clown; Kentucky Frank, sharp shooter; James O. Kennedy, singing clown; Geo. and Laura Lucas(?), sketch team . . . Edgerton, ventriloquist . . . Pullman and Thayer have the candy privileges. They use a 100ft. round top, with two middle pieces. New York Clipper July 12, 1890, p. 275. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Dr. J. L. Thayer's Circus - 1886

    Ed. Martinetti is the equestrian-director of Dr. J. L. Thayer's Circus. He and his three brothers, Nelson, Albert and Louis, have been secured for the season. The Austin Bros., James Joyce, William De Ivey, Millie Lockwood and Prof. Franklin's dog-circus are also with this show. Leon and donkeys and Dr. Thayer's wife and daughter joined at Raleigh, N. C., March 17. J. L. Thayer. Jr. makes his debut at Norfolk, Va. The concert is given by Dan Lester, Chas. Allen, Georgie Bell, John Dowling, Ed. Lockwood and Ed. Martinetti. Thayer pere and fils Nelson Martinetti, Leon and Lockwood are doing the clowns, The show is said to have done well since opening, March 8, at popular prices. New York Clipper March 20 or 27, 1886. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Thompson & Sinclair - 1892

    Thompson & Sinclair’s Twenty-Five Cent Circus is in its fourth week, playing to good houses. The show is made up as follows: Leon Thompson & Sinclair Bros., proprietors; George Edgerton, general manager . . . M. H. Ward, advance agent; Edgerton Sisters, W. Ritzel . . . Mondell Bros. . . . Geo. Edgerton . . . Lizzie Roper . . . New York Clipper August 13, 1892, p. 356.
    1892: On the road, circuses: Thompson & Sinclair’s, North Liberty IN Aug 10, Mishawaka 11, Edwardsburg 12, Cassopolis MI 13. New York Clipper August 13, 1892, p. 361.
    1892: Wanted, people in all branches of the circus biz to strengthen Thompson & Sinclair Bros.’ Big Twenty-Five Cent Circus. Violinist to double on any instrument in brass. Also boss canvas man. Address per route. Geo. Edgerton, general manager. New York Clipper August 13, 1892, p. 368.

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Wm. Thompson's - 1892

    Wanted, for W. M.(N.?) Thompson’s United Railroad Shows, people in all branches of the circus business, except riders; also a good glassblower and a band master. Write Mrs. Daisy Thompson, Princeton, Ill. New York Clipper April 16, 1892, p. 94.
    Wanted, for Wm. Thompson’s United Shows, people in all branches except riders. All must be able to do two or more turns. Also a good glassblower and a band of six pieces. Show opens Battle Creek, Mich. May 24(?). Daisey Shelly (Mrs. Wm. Thompson), the fancy sharpshooter, is doing twelve of the most difficult shots on the slack wire. New York Clipper May 21, 1892, p. 172.
    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.
    On the road, circuses: Wm. Thompson’s, Michigan City, IN June 29, Benton Harbor MI 30-July 2, St. Joseph 3-5. New York Clipper July 2, 1892, p. 265.
    On the road, circuses: Wm. Thompson’s, Paulding OH July 16, Van Wert 18, Rockford 19, Celina 20, Ansonia 21, Greenville 22, Germantown 23, Franklin 25. New York Clipper July 16, 1892, p. 296.
    Wanted, for Wm. Thompson’s Circus, Menagerie. People in all branches of the business except riders and musicians. Address per route. Wm. Thompson, prop, Railroad Circus. New York Clipper July 16, 1892, p. 304.
    Roster of Wm. Thompson’s United Australian Shows: Wm. Thompson, proprietor and manager; Dan Malcolm, equestrian director; Mark Murphy, boss canvas man, with ten assistants; Harry Foster, boss property man, with four assistants . . . a band of fifteen pieces under the leadership of Prof. H. Irving Reed; Dan Malcolm, Theola, Daisy Thompson . . . Andy G. Hughes, James and Appleton, and R. L. Metcalfe. New York Clipper July 23, 1892, p. 308.
    On the road, circuses: Wm. Thompson’s, Celina OH July 20, Ansonia 2?, Greenville ??, Germantown 23, Franklin 25. New York Clipper July 23, 1892, p. 300.

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Tilman George's - 1890

    The following is the roster of Tilman) George’s Wagon Show and Trained Horse Exhibition: Tilman George, sole proprietor and manager; Dello(?) and Le Roy, assistant managers; Wm. Moore, advance agent with four assistants; Wm. Dunlap, treasurer; Frank Scott, equestrian director . . . James Butler . . . Lavard Bros. . . . Lulu Cox; the Davis Sisters . . . Dello and Le Roy; Bert Johnson, boss hostler . . . The show opened May __. New York Clipper May 31, 1890, p. 183. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Jim Travis - 1892

    Wanted, for Jim Travis’ Best Show on Earth, riders with their own stock, tumblers, wire walkers and trapeze performers, male and female. Would like to hear from a man with a small elephant that is trained. Long season. Must be in Grand Rapids June 1. Want boss canvas man who can do other work. Jim Travis. 67 Canal Street, Grand Rapids, Mich. New York Clipper May 21, 1892, p. 173.
    Wanted, for Jim Travis Best Show on Earth, riders with their own stock. Must be on hand Jun 7(?). Open June 11. Grand Rapids, Mich. New York Clipper June 4, 1892, p. 205.
    Grand Rapids, Michigan. Travis Circus at Reed’s Lake 11. New York Clipper June 18, 1892, p. 229.
    Jim Travis’ Show. The show opened its season June 11. The roster: James Travis, sole proprietor; Willard Stanton, general manager; Judd Spore, treasurer; Willard Stanton and Harry Goine(?), equestrian directors . . . We carry forty(?) head of stock. . . . This is the outfit of the Burr Robbins’ Imperial Shows. . . . Geo. Dunbar and wife, De Marrow Bros. . . . Parrell and Mereno(?), Richard Place, Anna Place . . . James Harding . . . Mr. Swentland has charge of the privileges, and L.(?) Taber of the reserved seats. This show will travel by rail, commencing in the northern part of Michigan, although the heavy rains of the last forty days marred our opening. The sun shone bright and clear opening day. Our first meal in our cook tent was one long to be remembered, as Mr. Travis sat at the head with the entire party. Manager Stanton personally attended to the billing and press work of our opening. A funny incident happened in our opening parade. As Mr. Travis and Mr. Stanton were leading the parade the former ___ a horseshoe in the street; the latter sprang from the buggy, pushed the leader of the band team one side and secured the omen of good luck. It is now a piece of furniture in Treasurer Spore’s(?) ticket wagon. Sunday the performance was witnessed by the Richard’s Show, numbering thirty-nine people. The Edgertons, Geo., May and Lily, joined us ___. New York Clipper June 25, 1892, p. 244.
    Notes from Jim Travis’ "Best Show on Earth." Our opening week at Reed’s Lake was a grand success, and, despite the rain and mud, we gave fourteen performances. All that time we had to work in a ring with from four to six feet of "mud and muck." Frank Melville says that in his thirty years of riding he never saw so muddy a ring. During our stay at the lake a large passenger boat was launched, and our entire company were invited to go aboard and slide into the water. It was a grand sight, amid the music of our band and the waving of the national colors. Chas. P. Watson, our hurdle rider, was the last to board the boat, and, as it was christened the Watson, Charlie says it was named after him. We played against the Richard Railroad Show, and on Sunday received a visit from Dick Sutton. As he gazed on our large crowd he said: "This is the first big house I have seen this week." We moved to the South End on the 2?th, and played to the capacity on the week. On the 2?th we gave a children’s matinee in honor of Colin(?) B. Melville, our boy rider, when twelve hundred children were present. The ___ accident of the season happened 2?, when Geo. Dunbar, in doing his breakaway single trapeze, with his wife, Lottie, took a header from the top of the tent, and landed on his head outside the ring bank. He was stunned for a moment, but quickly ___ and finished his act amid great applause. Our concert is a feature. We move to the West Side 27 to July 4, when we take the road. This is the only twenty-five cent show that has ever played the town three weeks. . . . Mr. Travis is making final arrangements for a sideshow, as animals arrived from Texas yesterday. . . . every Saturday appears as the man in white. . . . New York Clipper July 2, 1892, p. 261.

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Trevino's Mexican - 1890, 1892-94

    1890: Roster of Trevino’s Mexican Circus: . . . Pedro Gomez Sr., Leonicio Nava, Prof. Geo. Wambold and Sig. Sr. Daniel Meza Jr. . . . Isidro de Trevino . . . Shorty Baker, boss canvasman, and ten assistants . . . Ben Thompson, chandelier man . . . Business through Texas is reported big. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 791.
    1890: Sherman, Texas. Senor Trevino’s Mexican Circus gave two performances here 11, 12. They have some of the smallest performers that your correspondent ever saw. . . . On 12 the cooking tent caught fire and was damanged some before the fire could be got under control. New York Clipper, March 22, 1890, p. 19.
    f1890: Trevino’s Mexican Show is still heading Eastward. The bad weather has not had very much effect on its business, which is said to be big. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 155.
    1890: Notes from Trevino’s Mexican Circus. We have been doing a good business in Ohio, and the "White Spectre" has been regular in his walks. Fred Harkley(?) is still doing a principal and other riding acts. Prof. Geo. Wambold and his son continue to be ___ cards. . . . Lafayette Miller joined at St. Louis, and is doing principal bars and doubles in the leaps. Prof. John Lacoma is leading the band . . . Our new band wagon looks "out of sight." Deming, Powers and ?enny are running the concert. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
    Notes from Trevino’s Mexican Show. The show shipped from St. Louis Aug. 17(?), and landed at Paris, Tex., 2?. We enjoyed a most delightful trip, as our accommodations could not have been better, notwithstanding it was a long jump. Prof. Geo. Wamboldt and son are doing a wonderful posturing act. . . . Mrs. Georgia Powers joined her husband at St. Louis, having closed her engagement with the New London Show. Arthur Davenport will soon have a charming little wife Zorelda(?). New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 420.
    1890: Waco, Texas. Lemen Bros.’ Circus drew fair audiences Sept. 12, 13. . . . Trevino’s Mexican Circus showed here 8, 9, to fair patronage. John Lacomb, leader of the band, left here, and will remain in Waco during the winter. He has been engaged as director for a band being organized here, and will be a member of the regular orchestra of Garland’s Opera House. New York Clipper, September 27, 1890, 454.
    1890: A note, dated San Antonio, Tex., Oct. 13, and signed "Musicians and Performers of the outfit," informs us that Trevino’s Mexican Circus went to pieces at that city 12. The writer does not speak in very complimentary terms of Mr. Trevino. New York Clipper, October 25, 1890, 523.

    1892: Pueblo, Colorado. Trevino’s Mexican Show and Circus linger in town, showing to poor business. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 83.
    1892: Pueblo, Colorado. Trevino Mexican Circus left here for Trinidad, Col. 11, after an unsuccessful season of three weeks. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 99.

    1893: Items from Trevino's Colossal Mexican Shows. We opened at Parsons, Kas., July 18, for eight days, with an 80ft. round top and a 40ft. middle piece, and did a phenomenal business, which has continued at each stand. We have our own special cars, consisting of one sleeper and dining car combined, one stock and flat car combined. Everything is running smoothly, and the spectre walks every Sunday morning. We play two, four and six day stands. The roster: John Trevino, manager and proprietor; H. C. Long, business manager; T. T. Ball in advance with four assistants; Prof. Sepulveda's band of eight pieces; Otto Geiger, privileges; J. J. White, canvas man with eight assistants . . . Geo. Williams, chandelier man with two assistants . . . Performers: . . . Modesta Gutierrez, Emello(?) Mendez, Leonides Hernandez, Master Isidor Trevino, Francisco Nava, Sig. Trevino, Master Charlie Long and James Orr. Concert: Francisco Nava, Lula(?) Long, Miss Sepuveda, Mrs. Herlinda(?) Trevino, Master Ysidro Trevino, Orr(?) and McGreeney and Master Charlie Long. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 378.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Trevino's, South McAlester Ind. Ter. Aug 18, 19. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 379.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Trevino, Dennison TX Aug 31-Sep ? . New York Clipper, September 2, 1893, p. 413.

    1894: Houston, Texas. Traveno's Mexican Ten and Twenty Cent Show opened to good business. New York Clipper, January 6, 1894, p. 703.
    1894: Notes from Trevino's Colossal Mexican Shows. The shows are now touring Southern Texas and are meeting with good success, the weather being all that could be desired. They are working under a 110ft. round top with two 50ft. middle pieces and an annex 50ft. with a 30ft. middle piece. Roster: John Trevino, proprietor; H. C. Long, manager; Lee Burke, master of transportation; William Bennett, equestrian director; Fred White, master of canvas, with twenty men; Lee Gaylord, boss hostler, with five assistants . . . The music is furnished by Prof. Frank Shafer's military band of ten pieces. Frank Bernardo, lessee of privileges. Performers: De Long and Bennett . . . Frank Bernardo, Chas. Holland, Frank Medel . . . Raphael Serra, Monica Garcia . . . Nava, Amelio Mendes, Pachita Nava and Cidro(?) Trevino, clowns; Ed. Delong, Sonney Orr, John McDonald. Concert people: John John McGreevy . . . Senator John McDonald and the Trevino children. Everybody is well and the man in white materializes weekly. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 735.
    1894: Notes from Trevino's R. R. Shows. Trevino's R. R. Shows have run into San Antonio, Texas, to lay up for five weeks, during which the cages and chariots will be repainted, gilded and thoroughly overhauled. The performers are comfortably quartered in a commodious hotel, the same company being re-engaged. Manager H. C. Long has gone to Kentucky to purchase stock. John(?) Trevino has gone to the City of Mexico to purchase an entire outfit of costumes, trappings, etc., and engage four bull fighters for one of the greatest novelties the American public ever saw. . . . The show opens in San Antonio, March ?. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 801.

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Sam K. Tribbey & Co.'s - 1886

    Sam K. Tribbey & Co.'s New Mastodon Dime Circus and Menagerie opened their season May 4, at Hamilton, O., playing there the balance of that week, and opening at Richmond, Ind., 20, for one week. The following is the roster: Sam K. Tribbey & Co., proprietors; Miles Orton, general-manager; W. O. Beogel, treasurer; Al. D. Higgins, equestrian-director and press-agent; Prof. W. Vance, musical-director, Chas. Ellis, contracting-agent; Jack Fitzgerald, master of canvas, with eight men; Gus Dicks, in charge of ring stock, with three men; A. Newman, chandeliers; Will Allen, master of properties. Performers — The Orton Family, six in number, headed by Miles Orton, bareback-rider, and his two infant wonders, Norman and Gordon; Claude Orton, Master Albert Orton, Little Allie and Bernard Orton, Hicks Bros,, Apple and West, F. Seymour, E. H. Dooley, Conners and Bradley, Andy Spear, Walter Freds, Mattie Spear, McDonald Sisters — Lou and Gussie — the performing elephant Lizzie, and the riding-dog Hector. The show has eight dens of animals, giant elk and one elephant. It travels by rail, making week-stands, using a 110 ft. canvas, with two 30 ft. middle pieces, and 60 ft. menagerie. New York Clipper, May 22, 1886. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Tucker Circus Co. - 1895

    1894: Springfield, Massachusetts. Tucker’s Parlor Theatre . . . H. B. Tucker has taken into partnership P. F. Shea and Mr. Tucker assumes the fall(?) management of the theatre. New York Clipper, December 8, 1894, p. 637.

    1895: Springfield [Massachusetts] Tucker’s Circus opened its season in this city 11(?), to large business. New York Clipper, May 18, 1895, p. 163.
    1895: A "Giant" Show Stranded. A Circus in Difficulty at Skowhegan. Skowhegan, Me., June 28. Tucker’s Giant show, a circus traveling across the country with teams, is stranded here. Some twenty claims of the principal performers and employees for back pay were place in the hands of lawyers here today and close jail writs were served on H. B. Tucker, P. F. Shea and John L. Russell, managers. They are in charge of Sheriff Viles. Trouble among the managers and light business caused the trouble. Twenty of the men found employment here in the construction of the electric road. Bangor Daily Whig and Courier (Bangor, ME), June 29. 1895, p. 1.

    1896: Tucker Circus Co. offer a complete wagon show for sale. New York Clipper, February 1, 1896, p. 765.
    1896: $3,500. Wagon Show for sale. The following property was brand new the 11th of last May and was on the road until June 27: Big top, 100ft., with 50ft.(?) middle piece . . . 2(?) horse tents 30x40; 1 cook tent, 28x36; 30(?) lengths of 8 tier seats, 3 jacks to a stringer; 13(?) red English band coats, 12(?) blue band helmets, white plumes; __ harnesses, in 4(?) horse sets, red trimmed, red blinders, housing, drops, etc. etc., made to order for the circus business; ?? red plumes, 14 inches long, for horses; 2(?) white spangled ladies’ parade suits, 2 red satin entree suits for ladies, ? ladies’ velvet parade suits, 6 side saddles, 8 men’s velvet entree suits, pants and jackets silver trimmed, Spanish design; 8(?) men’s saddles; 1(?) fancy drapery for dressing room entrance; 24 flags 3-5, for wagons in parade, all nations; 8 white pangled horse covers for parade, _ Roman spangled bridles, 12 drivers’ blue coats and caps, _ clown suits, 8 Roman spangled den ___, different colors; _ ladies parade jackets, red; 4(?) ladie’s Mexican parade hats, _ front draperies for reserved seats; __ quarter pole banners; 50(?) flags, 2-? for big top, all colors; 1 band stand music rack, all complete; 1 bass drum, 1 snare drum; _ leaping run and jacks, 1 leaping tick, 1 set of steel layout pins . . . 1 Morray stake puller, 1 ring plow, 8 sledges, 8 shovels . . . 1 tapestry medallion, 10x25, for ring tumbling; 1 large bandwagon, ver attractive, gold and red seats; 14(?) heavy platform springs; 1 small band wagon, ornamented with white and told seats; 12 platform springs; 4 light cages 10ft long, all mounted on platform springs; 1 large canvas wagon, painted white, with mirror sides, goes in parade, platform springs; 1 ticket wagon, painted English vermilion, goes in parade, platform spring; 1 seat wagon, dead axle; 1 pole wagon, very strong, heavy platform springs; 1 peacock parade wagon for 2 ponies; 1 stake and chain wagon, platform spring; 1 wagonette passenger wagon, seats 8(?); 3 clown cars; 1 4 horse cage. This property is in fine shape and can be seen in Springfield, Mass. Will be sold in bulk for $3,500. Tucker’s Circus Co., Parlor Theatre, Springfield, Mass. New York Clipper, February 15, 1896, p. 798.

    1897: The Maginleys, while performing at the New Gilmore Theatre, Springfield, Mass., were of Nov 12(?), bought of P. F. Shea & Co. a band wagon, advance wagon, a four horse cage for ticket wagon and four other baggage wagons, and circus property of the Tucker Little Giant Show, for the Maginleys’ Big Wagon Show, which opens early in May. New York Clipper, November 27, 1897, p. 649.

    1903: Cleveland, Ohio, Nov. 8. The vaudeville theatre in this city heretofore known as Chase’s Empire was sold to-day to P. G. Shea of New York, who owns theatres in Worcester and Springfield, Mass. A new circuit of Rochester, Buffalo, Toronto, Cleveland and Detroit has been formed. Shea and his partner controlling theatres in these cities. New York Times, November 9, 1903, p. 7.

    1922: Patrick F. Shea, owner of several theaters in New England . . . died suddently at noon yesterday . . . in his office . . . New Amsterdam Theatre Building. He started in the vaudeville branch of the theatrical business forty years ago, and became the first general manager of the Keith Circuit. [Died August 23, 1922.] NY Times, August 24, 1922, p. 11.

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A. Turner's Columbian Circus - 1831

    Program of 1831. 1. Grand display of Arabian Horses, which will lie down and sit up with their riders. 2. Riding master, A. Turner. 3. Clown, Sands. 4. Ground and lofty tumbling, by entire company. 5. Comic song, Sands. 6. Balancing, Pentland. 7. Golden Shower, Sands. 8. Indian war dance on horseback, Jackson. 9. Song (The good old days of Adam and Eve), Pentland. 10. Horsemanship by a clown, Sands. 11. Grand Trampleen by Turner, over a number of horses, concluded by a glying leap thru a balloon on fire. 12. Horsemanship, Turner, Jr. (10 years of age) anyone who can duplicate his act can pick up $1,000 from the management. 13. Slack rope walker, Andrews. 14. Concluding farce, "Miller & Coalman." This show played Providence, R.I., Aug. 5 and 6, 1831. Show was put on indoors at a permanent circurs building. Nite shows only were given at 8 p.m., with the doors open at 7 p.m. Price for boxes were 50 cents, while the pit was 25 cents and all children under 10 years of age got in for half price. Banner Line, September 15, 1966 (No. 462), p. 9. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.

Oris Turner's United Shows - 1900

    Report that they are doing a nice business, and are traveling through a must beautiful country. The show comprises the following circus artists: Mr. Mononee(?), contortionist; the O'Kyle Bros., acrobats; Mr. Norman, high diver and trapeze performer; Mr. Watiers, slack rope walker; Frank La Rue, rings. Billboard June 23, 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.

Tuttle's - 1889, 1890-94, 1900

    1889: The Tuttle Family Show will not start out until April 29. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889, p. 107.

    1890: Wanted for Tuttle Family Olympic Show for 1890, contortionist, bar performers, also variety people, those who play brass preferred. A good sideshow tent for sale, new last Spring. . . . Address Tuttle Family, Olympic Show, Selinsgrove, Snyder Co. Pa. New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 737.
    1890: On the Road, Circuses: Tuttle Family, Litchfield, Ct., June 12. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210.

    1891: Fred Tuttle’s Pavilion Show will open . . . May 1, with the following people: Fred, Annie, Nellie and Jessie Tuttle, Charley McBride . . . Bill Whalen, Geo. Lee . . . The show will also carry twelve head of horses and a band and orchestra. New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 134.
    1891: A. F. Tuttle’s Pavilion Show ran out of gasoline at ___, Pa., May 1?, and, as they showed near the gas line, they had it piped in the tent, and the night performance was illuminated with natural gas. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.

    1892: Wanted, variety and circus people, except riders, those playing brass preferred. Like to hear from sideshow or museum managers. Will rent or buy steam calliope and a small troupe of performing dogs. Season opens April ??. A. F. Tuttle, Linesville, Crawford County, Pa. Olympic Circus. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 14.
    1892: A. F. Tuttle’s Olympic Show opens at Louisville, Pa., May 2(?) with the following roster: A. F. Tuttle, sole owner and manager; H. O. Cunningham, advance, with two billposters; Prof. P. E. George, leader of band and orchestra; Chas. King, equestrian director; Paranto Brothers, gymnasts and acrobats; Harry Wise, contortionist; Leon Dunbar, gymnast; Frank T. West, slack wire; Birmingham and Ryan, sketch team; Ella Maywood, revolving globe and trapeze; Mrs. A. F. Tuttle, serio comic; Nellie Tuttle, cornet solo; Jessie Tuttle, song and dance; Prof. Hamilton’s troupe of trained dogs; Henry Knipple, boss hostler; Frank Lewis, boss canvas man, with five assistants. The show travels by wagon, using twenty head of horses . . . New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
    1892: Wanted, one more contortionist, one violin and cornet player, one horizontal bar man. Show travels by wagon. A. F. Tuttle, Linesville, Pa. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 127.

    1893: Charles E.(F.?) McBride has signed with Tuttle’s Pavilion Show. New York Clipper, January 14, 1893, p. 721.
    1893: A. F. Tuttle’s Olympic Circus, now wintering a Linesville, Pa., will open their season at that place May 1. The wagons are newly painted, a new 100x80ft. top will be added to the show, also a large side show and museum. The show will travel by wagon with twenty-five head of stock. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 821.
    1893: Wanted, for the Tuttle’s Olympic Show all performers except riders and would like to hear from sideshow people who have sideshow to put on the road. Wagon show. Show opens at Linesville, Pa., May 1. A. F. Tuttle, proprietor. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 828.
    1893: Mons. Taylor, contortionist, and his canine paradox have signed with A. F. Tuttle’s Olympic Shows. New York Clipper, March 25, 1893, p. 34.
    1893: Notes from A. F. Tuttle’s Show. The show is playing return dates through Washington, Allegheny and Greene Counties, Pa., and is doing a big business. Prof. Chas. E. McBride and H. O. Cunningham have joined the show. Prof. Taylor was called away in Columbus, O., but has joined the show again. . . . Geo. Parento fell from his pyramid of tables and chairs recently, but is able to work. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: On the road, circuses: Tuttle’s . . . Oak Forrest PA 17, Mt. Morris 18, Dunkard 19 . . . New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
    1893: While Tuttle’s Circus was en route to Upper Middletown, Ct., about 5(?) a.m. July 20, and within two miles of the town, descending a steep mountain, the pole wagon became unmanageable and run down at a furious speed, crashing into the wagon loaded with Mons. Taylor’s dogs, killing one instantly and seriously injuring two others. Charles McBride received serious, though not fatal, injuries. He was taken to a physician’s office and an ugly cut on his head was sewed up. His body was considerably bruised and scratched. He was the boss canvas man, and was asleep on the pole wagon. The horses received no injuries beyong a few scratches. Both wagons were totally smashed. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
    1893: Wanted, to strengthen my show, a few more performers. Can use wire and juggler, and a violinist and all round performers. One show a day. A. F. Tuttle Circus, Irwin, West Moreland Co., Pa. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 338.
    1893: A cyclone and hail storm struck Tuttle's Olympic Show at Summerville, Pa., Sept. 7, and laid everything flat, breaking side poles and completely tearing the main top beyond repair. The troupe will exhibit with the side walls until a new top can be procured. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 447.
    1893: Geo. Parento, equilibrist and aerialist, and Nellie Tuttle, cornetist, members of Tuttle's Olympic Show, were married at Jamestown, N.Y., on Sept. 19. New York Clipper, September 30, 1893, p. 480.
    1893: Tuttle's Circus closed their season at Blooming Valley, Pa., Sept. 29. Charles McBride is visiting H. O.(?) Cunningham at Stewartson, W. Va. New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.

    1894: Notes from Tuttle's Olympic Circus. "The show will open at Linesville, Pa., May 2(?), with a brand new outfit. A. F. Tuttle will be sole proprietor and manager. The show will be conducted on sound business principles. The following people are already engaged: Ed Thardo, Dan Murphy, Chas. McBride, Tom O'Brien . . . Minnie Nolan, Harry Nolan and George Miller. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
    1894: Notes from A. F. Tuttle's Olympic Shows. Everything is on the hustle around our headquarters, Pine Farms, Linesville, Pa. The people so far engaged are: Ed. Thardo, Ed. Neolo, Billie Morris, Jessie Day, Nellie Warde . . . Steve Mackenzie . . . Chas. McBride and Willie Weicks; John Murphy, boss canvas man with seven assistants . . . advance, Geo. Churchill and F. W. Dolan; A. F. Tuttle, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Anna Tuttle, treasurer. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.
    1894: Billy Morris has signed as singing and talking clown, and to introduce his brindle bull dog, Tiger, for this season with Tuttle's Big Olympic Shows. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 68.

    1900: Take the road May 1. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6.

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