Circus Historical Society
From: Red Wagon Annual. A Route Book of Ringling Brothers World’s Greatest Shows, Season 1898, Chicago: Central Printing and Engraving Co. Program, detailed day-by-day route and some staff & performers. Not included here are the articles, some text, many photographs. Permission to place the information from this route book on the Circus Historical Society website has been provided by Feld Entertainment, Inc.™, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey™. Circus World Museum's Parkinson Library provided the photocopy of this route book. All information should be checked with additional sources. There will be spelling and typographical errors.
Ringling Brothers’ Military Band
Geo. Ganweiler, Conductor
Popular Concert preceding each performance. Numbers rendered from the following repertoire, and announced by placard displayed from band stand, corresponding with numbers of selections as below.
1. March
2. Overture, The Hermit’s Bell - Mallard
3. Scotch Melodies - Bonnisseau
4. Paraphrase: Sweet Alice, Ben Bolt - Luck; The Bride Elect (March) - Sousa
5. Scenes from Carmen - Bizet’s
6. Invocation to Battle (Rienzi) - R. Wagner; Dance des Sultanes - Polak Daniels
7. Overture, Hunting for Luck - Suppe
8. Descriptive Piece, Columbus - Herman. Synopsis: Torchlight Dance, The Sorrow of Departure, Fealty to the Flag, Anchors Weighed, On the Vast Waters, Chorus and Dance of the Sailors, Storm, The Storm Gradually Abates, Prayer, Melancholy, Mutiny, Columbus Quells the Disturbance, Land Ho! Salute of the Guns, Hail Columbia.
9. A Midnight Round of the Guard - Le Thiere
10. Fantasia (Maritana) - Wallace
11. Miserere (from Torvatore) - Verdi; Caprice, Why Not? - Gruenwald
12. The Evening Call (scenes descriptive of a young man’s call on his girl) - P. W. Reeves. Synopsis: Whistling Gaily on the Way, Arriving at the House he Rings the Bell, Cordial Greeting, They Indulgen in a Little Waltz, More Greeting, He Sings a Serenade, The Serenaders, Invited in and have a jolly time, including a Clog Dance on the kitchen floor, after they retire she sings “I Can’t Say Good Bye,” One More Kiss, Interrupted by the Steeple Clock, The Old Man appears, Consternation and Rapid Exit.
13. Fantasia on Foster’s American Song, My Old Kentucky Home - Sangey
14. Airs from Amorita - Czibulka
15. Gems from Offenbach’s Operas - Boettger
16. Overture, Poet and Peasant - Suppe
17. The Princess Bonne (Scenes Populaires) - Spencer
18. Hungarian Fantasia - Tobani
19. Paraphrase, In the Deep Cellar - Loronberg; The Stars and Stripes Forever (March) - Sousa
20. Overture, Festival - Leutner
21. Village Life in the Olden Time - Le Thiere. Night, Sunrise, Astir in the Village, Children Going to School, The Blacksmith Shop, The May Queen, May Pole Dance.
22. Popular Airs from the Musical Comedy Little Christopher - Tobani
23. A Hunt in the Black Forest (Descriptive) (Idyl) - Voeiker. Synopsis: Break of day, Singing of birds, crowing of rooster, Huntsman call to arise, Huntsman’s horn in distance to assemble, They mount and start, Call to halt and dismount as they arrive at the forest blacksmith, The smith at work, Call to assemble, Drink and sing the Champagne Song, They mount and start again, After game, Firing of guns, barking of dogs, Homeward Bound.
24. Overture, Light Cavalry - suppe
25. Ballet Music from Faust (Suite I) - Gounod. No. 1, Waltz of the Corps de Ballet; No. 2, Ensemble of Helen, Trojan Maidens, Cleopatra, Nubian Slaves; No. 3, Entry of the Nubian Slaves; No. 4, Solo Dance of Cleopatra.
26. Melodies from the Serenade - Victor Herbert
27. Robin Hood (Echoes from the Opera) - De Koven
28. Popular American Airs - Theo. Coates. Hail Columbia, Our Army and Navy Forever, Yankee Doodle, Star Spangled Banner.
29. Tone Pictures of the North and South - Bendix
Display No. 1 - Dazzling Introductory Pageant, presenting the Inaugural Ceremonies of the Grand Fetes of Ancient Olympus. A Brilliant Kaleidoscopic Panorama of Regal Magnificence, completely filling all the Rings, Stages and Immense Hippodrome Concourse.
Display No. 2 - A Potpourri of Phenomenal Performances, by Artists of Skill and Diversified Talent.
Ring No. 1 - Arthur and Dot Adair. Skillful and Intrepid Experiments with the lofty perch.
Stage - Ando and Little All Right. Surpassing Equilibrist and Balancer in Unique Surprises on the “Break-away’ Ladder.
Ring No. 2 - Cebelis, the Cuban Wonder. Unprecedented achievements of the world&rsqup;s greatest High Wire Artist, introducing Phenomenal Balancing and superb specialties.
Arena - Roach and Wilson. Unique Evolutions and Character Travesties on the Lofty Perch.
Ring No. 3 - Jerome and Van Dee. Wonderful Balancing Perch Act.
Left: Ando Family, Japanese Performers. Right: Nicholas Ceballos, High-Wire Artist
Display No. 3 - Aerial Gyrations, by a Coterie of the World’s Most Famous Gymnasts.
Jones and Zammert. An Absurd Aerial Comicality, Side-splitting in its Rollicking Fun, on Revolving Ladder.
Alvo, Boise and Pickard. Kings of the Aerial Bars, Performing Fearless Feats of Skill and Daring, Suspended High in Mid-air.
Minnie Fisher. The Human Aerial Top! Cyclonic Flights through Space, 60 feet above the ground, Suspended by her Teeth and Spinning at a Terrific Rate.
King and Nelson. Comical Revolving Ladder Absurdities. Ridiculous Antics and Funny Freaks in Mid-air.
Miss Minnie Fisher, The Aerial Human Top
Left: King and Nelson, Comedy High-Ladder Aerialists, Clowns.
Right: Alvo, Boise and Pickard, Aerial Bar
Display No. 4 - Presentations of Perfect Equestrianism, by the World’s Foremost Bareback Champions.
Rose Dockrill. The Unrivaled Queen of Principal Equestriennes, in Dashing Finished Arenic Novelties.
Elena Ryaland. Peerless Principal Bareback Equestrienne, in Novel, Up-to-Date Exploits of Unapproachable Merit, in Full Evening Dress.
Miss Lizzie Rooney. The Petite and Accomplished European Artiste, in Principal Equestrian Feats.
Miss Lizzie Rooney, Equestrienne
In conjunction with the superb Principal Bareback Acts, a Coterie of Comical Cranks, in Mirth-Provoking Absurdities - “Dutchy” Bickel, Harry Watson Jr., James West, Frank Jones, George Zammert, Carl Mayo, Phil King, Frank Oakley, Charles Nelson, Arthur Adair, and a Company of Clowns.
Display No. 5 - Peerless Presentations of Premier Acrobatiques, by the Recognized Champions of the Circus World.
The Great Millets. Acrobats Supreme. The Highest Salaried and Most Skillful Performers in their line extant. The only Arists presenting Double Forward Somersaults from Shoulder to Shoulder.
The La Peers. The Latest Conceits and Most Elite Novelties in Artistic Acrobatiques eve presented to an American Audience.
The Da Comas. First Appearance of the Latest European Sensation, a Troupe of Ladies and Gentlemen in Full Evening Dress, Executing the Most Intricate and Difficult Feats Ever Attempted. The only Lady Double Somersaultist in the World.
Thos. Vandee and Wm. Jerome. Marvelous Exhibition of Acrobatic Novelties, by Artists of Exceptional Skill.
The Dacomas, costumed as they appear in the acrobatic act
Left: The Millettes, acrobatic marvels. Right: Thos. Vandee and Wm. Jerome, Acrobatic Novelties
Display No. 6 - A Novel Series of Attractive Vaudeville Specialties, by the Foremost Foreign Talent.
Ring No. 1 - Herr Drayton, Original Specialties with the Dancing Barrel and Maltese Cross. King and Nelson, Clownish Comicalities on Lofty Stilts.
Stage - Bickel, Watson and Zammert. An Odd Conceit, to make you laugh. The Pranks of Zammert’s “Clown Giraffe.”
Ring No. 2 - Jules Turnour, Carl Mayo. High Stilt Antics and Clownish Freaks and Frolics.
Arena - Ando, Skillful Digital Manipulations and Expert Juggling in Japanese Style. Arthur Adair, High Stilt Specialties and Daring Innovation.
Ring No. 3 - John Rooney, Delicate Feats of Balancing, Somersaulting and Acrobatism on the Bounding Rope. M. Ceballos, Startling Eccentricities on a Lofty Pyramid.
Display No. 7 - Amusing and Instructive Number, Illustrating Marvelous Animal Sagacity.
Dan Leon. The Marvelous Equine Wonder, “Sultan,” in a Series of Superb Performances, Evincing Almost Human Intelligence. Performed by Dan Leon.
“Silver King,” the Perfect Horse, conceded by competent judges to be the handsomest and best educated equine in existance.
A Coterie of Clowns. The World Famous Football Dog, Concededly the Most Perfectly Trained Canine in existance, with the clowns.
John Slater, Enlivening Exhibitions by a Troupe of Skillfully Trained Ponies in Up-to-Date Novelties.
Laughable, Roaring, Rousing Interlude of Patriotic Singing by a Company of Fifteen Comical Fellows, led by the Inimitable Clown and Singer, Charles Carroll, “What Didn’t Dewey Do?”
Charley Carroll, Emperor of the Calliope and Singing Clown
Display No. 8 - Grand Ensemble and Tournament of the Champion Leapers of the Circus World. Introducing Tremendous Single and Double Somersaulting over Horses, Camels and Elephants, by the foremost living artists, including William Vandee, John Rooney, Eddie Devan, “Dutchy” Bickel, Harry Watson Jr., Thos. Jerome, Charles Fisher, Al. Millette, James West, Arthur Adair, Ernest Alvo, and two scores of equally famous gymnasts.
Display No. 9 - Marvelous Examples of Equine Perfection, Exhibited by Peerless Equestrians.
Miss Minnie Fisher. The Princely Spotted Arabian Stallion, “Sultan,” guided through a Superb Manege Act by Miss Minnie Fisher.
John Rooney. Extraordinary High School Manege Act, Introducing the Marvelous “Mizpah,” the Only Retrieving Horse in the World.
Rhoda Royal. “Capt. Kidd,” and example of the Perfectly Educated Manege Horses, in New Entrancing Tricks.
Miss Lizzie Rooney, Equestrienne
John Rooney, Champion Bareback Somersault Rider
Display No. 10 - Pachyderm prodigies that play musical instruments, waltz, form groups and pyramids, and perform all functions of humanity except speech. The herd includes Dancing, Acting, Musical Elephant Comedians, presenting beyond all question the greatest and most astonishing examples of elephantine sagacity ever known. Reasoning power seems distinctly proven, and their capacity to think and act with humanlike alacrity is manifestly apparent. Introduce and performed by their trainer, Prof. Lockhart.
Display No. 11 - Unique Novelties in Vaudeville, by eminent Exponents of Artistic Perfection.
Nettie Carroll, Intrepid Innovations on the Dangerous High Wire. Little All Right, Oriental Balancing and Bending upon a Pyramid of Tiny Wooden Cubes. Herr Drayton, Herculean Feats with Huge, Solid Cannon Balls.
Paul Brachard. Marvelous Bending and Posing, Unique Novel Feats of Contortion and Sensational Teeth Balancing. Joseph La Fleur, Wonderful and Startling Pyramid of Chairs.
Pascatell, The Champion of all forward Contortionists in surprising specialties on the lofty pedestal and trapeze. Rajan, Marvelous Feats and Headlong Dives from a ladder, 40 feet high, to the ground.
Jessie Leon, The Queen of High Wire Artistes, introducing a bevy of beautifully trained Doves. Bonheur Sisters, Graceful and Finished Contortion Act, by the most Accomplished and Finished Artists.
Left: Nettie Carroll, Flying Rings and Tight Wire Artiste.
Right: Bonheur Sisters, Contortionists & Vocalists
Display No. 12 - The Unquestioned Trio of Champion Bareback Riders of the World.
Wm. Devan, Principal Bareback Somersault Event, The Greatest Display of Novel Feats Ever Attempted in the Circus Arena.
Wm. Demott, Peerless, and Unchallenged, Dashing, Principal Act, introducing the most Intricate Somersaulting, Pirouting and Leaping.
John Rooney, The Dashing, Intrepid and Undefeated Bareback Champion of the World, in Fear Defying Examples of Equestrianism. Excelled by none.
Display No. 13 - Latest European Novelties in Aernal Performances.
Dot Adair. Dashing Evolution of an Intrepid Aerialist, introducing Flying Ring Sensations.
Mlle. Turnour. Marvelous and Thrilling Exploits upon the Flying Trapeze. Unapproached by any living artist.
Joseph La Fleur. The Marvel of the Century, Thrilling Whirlwind Dives and Plunges. Somersaults from Dizzy Heights to the ground.
Mlle. Carroll. Fearless and Original Diversions on the Flying Rings.
Millie Turnour, Aerialist
Display No. 14 - The Famous Clown Band of Musical Mimics. The most ludicrous musical absurdity of the century.
Display No. 15 - The World’s Undisputed Premier Aerialists.
The Flying Fishers. Aerialists Supreme! Astounding Sensational Double Return Somersault Act in Mid-Air. First time in America.
The Famous Dacomas. Dazzling Brilliant Quadruple Return Act, Double Mid-Air Somersaults Across the Entire Arena. The Dashing Novelty of the Age.
The Fisher Family, Aerial Artists
Display No. 16 - The Most Magnificent and Perfect Congress of Premier Equestrians on Earth.
Elena Ryland, Grand Principal Bareback Specialties, by the Beautiful and Accomplished Arenic Queen.
Mike and John Rooney. The most perfect, refined and fascinating Double Jockey Act ever performed, introducing absolute departures and novel features. Running leaps from ground to back of horse, marvelous somersaulting, mounting, etc.
Rose Dockrill. The Peerless Queen of Equestriennes, in Dashing Finished Arenic Novelties.
Grand Hippodrome Sensations. Hotly Contested Trials of Speed and Skill.
First Event - Gentlemen’s Jockey Race. Three times around the track. Horses: Hazard, Tornado, Thunderbolt. Riders: Geo. E. Cole, green; John Slater, red; Harry Blanchard, black and yellow.
Secont Event - Man against Horse (Handicap). Man 3/4 way around the track. Horse once around the track. Horse, Fletcher. Rider, John Slater, red. Runner, W. W. Cheyenne, purple.
Third Event - Miniature Roman Chariot Race, twice around the track. Juvenile Contestants driving Shetland Ponies, 4 to each chariot. Drivers: Geo. Gole, green; L. Dillon, red.
Fourth Event - Ladies’ Jockey Race, three times around the track. Horses: Salamander, Billie Buck, Allard. Riders: Jessie Leon, purple and gold; Minnie Johnson, red and white; Minnie Fisher, black and white.
Fifth Event - Shetland Ponies ridden by Monkey Jockeys. Twice around the track.
Sixth Event - Roman Standing Race, three times around the track. Horses: Danger, Sultan, Rider W. W. Cheyenne, purple. Horses Chicago, Avalanche, Rider, Frank Jones, red.
Seventh Event - Exciting contest between the most expert Leaping Ponies and Horses on earth.
Eighth Event - Clown Race. Shetland Ponies to Sulky, once around the track. Spader Johnson and Jules Tournour, Contestants.
Ninth Event - Shetland Pony against Thoroughbred Horse, once around the track. Horse, Napoleon, Rider, L. Dillon, red. Pony, Spider, Rider Geo. Cole, green.
Tenth Event - Terrific 4-Horse Roman Chariot Race, three times around the track. Horses: Battle A T, Trooper, Sampson, Sheridan, Harrison, Cyclone, Mermaid, Zenobia. Drivers: Rhoda Royal, red; John Slater, white.
The Song of the Wheels, W. D. Coxey.
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I sing no song of Orpheus -
Of melodies divine; No song of Grecian goddess, - No bacchanal to wine; No tribute to a name - No “high-falutin’ ” sonnet To wreathe the brow of fame.
But a little song of travel,
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Have you ever listened,
In the quiet of the night, To the rattle and the prattle Of the triple trucks in flight - To the music of the journals, The pounding of the rail, Whirling through the darkness, Down the iron trail?
Seeming now to whisper,
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Many a song seraphic,
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Big Show Band
Conductor, Geo. H. Ganweiler
Clarinets: Geo. A. Balcom, Geo. V. Gray, Theo A. Breedy, L. A. Matthews, V. Hoffman.
Basses: J. E. Rossette, R. Breed, W. H. Van Cleve.
Flute and Piccolo: O. J. Fass.
Horns: Wm. Koch, E. Brady, C. W. Cleveland, C. Shields.
Euphonium: A. A. Kennedy.
Trombones: E. W. Smith, J. A. Moran, H. Rickley.
Cornets: J. F. Blattner, H. Robinson, Wm. Herket, G. O. Repasz, A. Goodrich.
Drums: L. A. Peterson, E. B. Henderson.
Big Show Band
Wardrobe Men
Fred L. Shafer, Superintendent
Archie Booken, W. S. Brownie, Charles Beck, Frank Sayers, Clifford Bouche, Fred. Lewis
The War Show
Al. A. Conlon, Manager
Chas. Goff, Superintendent
Matt Schormmer, Boss Canvasman
Assistants: Nick Baker, C. Blakeley, Will Egan, John Welsh, J. Rice, M. O. Richards.
Sleeping Car Porters
Paul Cunningham, Superintendent
Porters:
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Paul Cunningham, Car Olympus
W. F. Hickley, Car Alvena Geo. W. Swift, Car Caledonia Chas. Ansell, Car Patronius J. F. Peterson, Car No. 38 I. C. High, Car No. 52 |
Fred. Railton, Car Henderson
Dwight Briggs, Car Arcadia Wm. Alexander, Car Maximus Louis Ott, Car No. 12 Frank Fischer, Car No. 44 Frank Lemons, Car No. 56 |
Concert
Fred. Madison, Stage Manager
Wm. Koch, Leader of Orchestra
Artists:
Lovenburg Sisters
Goodwin and Keating
Fred. Madison
Charles and Nettie Carroll
The Bonheur Sisters
Bickel and Watson
Canvasmen
Big Top:
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J. H. Snellen, Superintendent
Lee Coleman, 1st Ass't John Parent, 2nd Ass't C. Cline, Back End Blue Seats C. White, Front End Blue Seats |
Frank Wise, Reserved Seats
Ja. McDonol, Reserved Seats John Devaine, Back Blues Joe Morrow, Front Blues John Brady, Stake Wagons No. 6 and 8 |
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Fred MacKenzie
Joe Dowd W. H. Merry Alfred Hasting Geo. Graham Bob Mock Ed. Sharp Harry Kline Harry Fulton Ed. Gilstrop Arthur Jarvis Wm. Vose Geo. Groh Robert Wellford Ralph Meedutt Al. Myers Ike Stiffle Geo. Harris Luke Harris Andy Bowen John O'Brien John Connors Thom. Cornfield Ike Hughes |
Joe Smith
Geo. Wilson Frank Stump Wm. Cook Geo. Walsh John Dunlap Ed. Drugan Fred Schady Mike Tierney T. J. Hagan Mike McGrath John Harper Henry Hopkins Gottlieb Robeck John Armstrong Fred Osburn Wm. Stockman L. R. Ragsdate Robert Mack Mike Donnovan Willish Shattrock Wm. Wilson Wm. Donnels |
Garrett Keating
Jas. O. Boile John Mahoney S. S. Moore R. H. Taylor Geo. Hose Pat. Foley Jas. Stevens John White Ed. B. Rise B. Fringers Frank Earl Pat. Rine Barney McCloskey T. J. Shay Robert McManus Frank Murray H. Hanley Wm. Farsee Frank Wind Thos. Calhoun Mike J. Conway |
Ushers:
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Walter King
Mike Burns John Dowd Fred MacKinzie Geo. Graham Joe Kline |
H. S. Johnson
Ed. Rise Fred Schady Al. Hastings W. H. Murry Robert Mock |
Menagerie Canvasmen:
Frank Andrews, Superintendent
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Joe Delgarn
Wm. Sprague Harry Miner Walter King Henry Hecht Wm. Davis Wm. Stewart Col. Brown Wm. Sullivan Jas. Martin |
Harry Williams
Geo. Pogue Frank Carlile Ivor MacBath, Stake Wagon No. 44 Joe Dokes Frank Braum M. DeRoville John Spook Fred. Whitman |
Front Door Men: Joe Dilgarn, Wm. Sprague, Harry Miner, Geo Develin
Horse Tent Canvasmen:
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John Boon
John Myers Willis A. Davis H. S. Johnson Joe Kline |
Fred Smook
Charles Cary Ed. Long Charles Soopers |
Ring Stock Men
Rhoda Royal, Superintendent
Trapping Master, John Duffey
Carriages and Traps Men: Harry Forse, Wm. Cardell
Stallion Men: B. N. Miller, Henry Huydahl
Rosin Backs: Harry Smith, Wm. Young, Frank Mays, George Wright, Wm. Trimkl, Dan Cumoran, John Ramosey
Hippodrome Stock: Wm. Mc Ginis, Ramond Thomson, Wm. Gly, Pat. Fullon, Al. Thomson, Fred. Ames, Henry Fisher, George Akins, John Lowery, George Bates
Pony Drivers: M. M. Callistar, Frank Mu?lein, Lewis Minkler, Burt Smith, Guy Mathias, Richard Retallick, Archey Mc Bride, John Long, George Hall, George Tilloson
Trainmen
Robert Taylor, Superintendent
Chas. Brown, Assistant Superintendent
Wm. Berk, Car Repairer
Watchmen: E. D. Gardner, 1st train; E. Farley, 2nd train; Lewis Ott, 3d train; Wm. Berg, 4th train.
Poles: H. J. Shephard, Paul Speering, Geo. Watson, John Furrer
Chalkers: John Richard, Ed. Bragdon, S. C. Wells
Trainmen: Tom Roberts, Wm. Miles, Henry Ward, Jas. Aldt, G. E. Carroll, Frank Bruton
Chandelier Man: John Pheiffer.
Property Men
Chas. O. Miller, Superintendent
Wm. Quirk, Assistant Superintendent
Frank Knott, Superintendent of Dressing Room
Ring No. 1: J. L. James, Frank Smith, Geo. Witty, Chas. Richards
Stage: Henrey Schreck, James Woods, Willis Jones, Lawrence Hobdy
Ring No. 2: Geo. Brown, John Dolan, Edward Bohn, Joe Strauss, Art. Boyd
Ring No. 3: Barney McNeill, James Crawford, Justice Jackson, Fred. White
Geo. Rees, in charge DeComa's Rigging
Barney McNeil, in charge Fisher's Rigging
Sid Boyd, in charge Alvos Rigging
Outside Men: Joe Goss, Jack Lynch, Elize Parker, Geo. Hine, Fred. Knapp, Stanton Abbott, Jack Daley
The Side Show
Geo. Connors, Superintendent
John Hamilton, Superintendent Side Show Doors
John Jennings, Superintendent of Canvas with eight assistants
Freaks and Performers:
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Ali Ben Dib, Arab Troupe
La Belle Isham, Arab Troupe Helen Mathews, Long Haired Lady Bertha Carnahan, Little Lady Major Rhinbeck, Little Man C. A. Bonney, Musical Albino & Imitator |
James Wilson, Expansionist and Strong Man
Prof. Silver, Magician Sig. Arcans and Sister, Impalement Act Princess Anni, Serpent Queen Alexander Family, Bell Ringers |
Outside Stands: George Connors, John Blaney, Fred, Madison, Cal. Towers, Asa Cummings, Harry Peel
Side Show Band
Clate Alexander, Leader
Drums: Asa Cummings, Frank Horn
O. A. Menges, Tuba
John Hazelwood, Baritone
A. J. Ross, Slide Trombone
Walt. Menges, Alto
Cornets: Leon Wheeler, Clate Alexander
Side Show Band
Animal Men
Wm. H. Winner, Superintendent
Camel Men: Tom Brady, Charles Clement
Keeper of the Hippotamus: Wm. H. Spencer
Den Men: John King, Chas. G. Evans
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J. Rafter
John White John Colliton Louis Wheeler George Becker John Hatfield |
James Burd Dice
Eugene Knowlton Fred. King A. H. Clausen John Rhittenbock Dor. McMillon |
Baggage Stock Drivers and Grooms
Spencer Alexander, Superintendent
Wm. Forquer, Assistant Superintendent
Rupass, Boss Repairer
Blacksmiths: All. Flury, Fred Teple
J. Burroch, Harnessmaker
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George Stump
James Hickey Charles Baldwin W. Eather H. McNal?? Henry Welch All. Myers Tim Wilson Otto Zigler J. Weiland G. Miller J. Jacobson G. Snow J. Daulton E. Cordel? J. Ryan G. Hutton C. Coushing J. Kingston J. Hosteter G. Kinston |
F. Boam
W. R. Robbins H. Hansen H. Speck D. Ervin J. Green M. Newman L. Marshell J. H. Shafer Just. Korman Otto Pulman C. Nordike A. Homes S. Kenny Peter Calahan Hurman Iseline W. Crosby E. McCune J. Rugu Swarts E. Delaven |
W. Hill
F. Dorson J. Fletcher Doc. Konners J. B. Kirshner G. Ellis W. H. Beebe L. M. Miller Alh. Wooddered Nick Strouse Charley Talworthey Skip Merran R. Rolond H. Winsell Tom Frasher C. Linzey F. Allbert G. Painter H. O'Connor Burt Kruger |
Chandelier Men
C. N. Roy, Superintendent
Wm. McCarthy, Lon. Tarr, Wm. Daley, S. E. Vandenberg, J. T. Galiger
Refreshment Dispensers
A. E. Parson, Manager
Frank Parson, Assistant Manager
Fred. Railton, Side Show Stand
Main Menagerie Stand: Geo. Harrison, Sam Lord, John Reynolds, Chas. Stewart, John Walsh, T. Cohn
Menagerie Stand No. 2: Chas. Allen
Main Outside Stand No. 1: Frank Parson, Geo. Scott, Chas. Caswell, John Barstow
Main Outside No. 2: Ed. Smith, Ed. Scott
Main Outside No. 3: Fred Railton
Main Outside No. 4: John Walsh
Main Outside No. 5: Sam Lord
Seat Butchers:
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John Walsh
Geo. Stott Sam Lord Chas. Jameson Ernest Foster |
John Reynolds
T. Cohn Chas. Allen Chas. Stewart Leo Bottler |
Geo. Harrison
John Crane Chas. Caswell John Barstow |
The “Brigade in Advance” and the Show are so indissolubly associated in interest that either would be superfluous without the other. The show could hardly exist without the advance, and equally the advance is dependent upon the show for its existence. What affects one affects the other. The show is a world in itself. So is each department of the advance. For several months during the year the people of the show come in daily contact. Each learns his companion’s peculiarities. The joys, the pleasures, the misfortunes, the sufferings of one become the concern of the many. Lasting friendships are formed, and the end of the season is the occasion for many a regretful parting. All this is equally true of the advance. Each advertising car is a community in itself. Every ripple on the surface of life is reflected more or less in the life of all. Things that in the outside world would be unnoticed, become momentous happenings in these little communities. Events too infinitesimal for record in the life about them, are the occasion of many a day’s jest and comment. These notes of a season on the road seem trivial enough. In reality they have leavened many a quiet hour with mirth or sadness, or passed current for many a day as happenings of more than transient interest. In the paragraphs that follow, each rounds out a week in the story of a season ahead of the white tents.
Car No. 1. - The Royal Irish Mail
Managers: A. G. Ringling, Kerry Meagher.
Billposters: Wm. Shea, Boss Billposter.
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O. M. Ballard
B. G. Scanlan Chas. Snowhill Chas. Treager C. M. Conner John Graves E. J. Bishop James Gouran Fred. Bates |
W. H. Hoskins
T. K. Titus T. F. Scanlan E. F. Bluski Joseph Howard Sam Hamant Orin Stevens Bert Personett J. W. Westbrook |
Car opens at Belleville, the first stand of the season out of St. Louis. Delayed in transit from winter quarters by washouts, but a little diplomacy on the part of Manager Meagher gets it into town on time. John Graves is picked up at Pana. Treager, Snowhill and Hamant are Belleville boys and congratulate themselves on the fact that the car has to come after them. A delegation of admiring citizens comes down to see the Belleville contingent off.
Louisville leads off the second week, after a long Sunday run from Murphysboro, Ill. Rain Monday. One of the new men, with the smallest route on record, excuses himself on the plea that he “was afraid of gretting his paper wet.” A. G. Ringling meets the car at Louisville, and goes through to Lexington en route to Eastern opposition stands. Ramsey, the Louisville and Lexington billposter, also a guest of the car. Arrive at Lexington at 9:30 P. M. in a heavy storm. “And the next day it snowed.” At Mt. Sterling, Mike Conner digs up the town character, he is as black as the ace of spades, tips the scale at 98 pounds, can stretch five feet three inches, and thinks he is 47 years old. He is known locally as Little Ben, the showman’s friend. Ben wears his high silk plug in honorof the circus crowd, and comes in for a lot of attention. Has his picture taken by the manager. At Huntington we discover that the notorious Sam Myers, a contract crook, has been representing himself as an agent of the show, and has decamped, leaving his board bill unpaid. Charleston, W. Va., is Friday’s stand. The hyphenated member of the circus syndicate billed in ahead of us. A. G. Ringling has answered the guns of the enemy with a heavy fusilade of flashy paper and a merry circus war, which lasts until show day is inaugurated. Hoskins, who lives at St. Albans, near Charleston, meets an old acquaintance — an ex-Confederate and asks him whether he intends to enlist for the war. “Wal, I’ll tell ye,” says tho old Johnny Reb, “it ’u’d be mahty tough to wear a blue uniform, but ef the band ’u’d play ‘Dixie’ we reckon it ’u’d be all right.” Bat Scanlan left back to look after the opposition billing. Ronceverte closes the week. Car arrives late after a long freight run and a narrow escape from a collision in the mountains.
Washington. Two-day stand. Car arrives late Sunday. Buffalo Bill in opposition. A. G. Ringling in charge of the billing. McKinley sends his famous war message to Congress, and the city is in a fever of excitement. The press agent and W. H. Horton, special agent, leave from Baltimore to return to the opposition at Charleston. R. W. Peckham, one of the contracting agents, handles the advance press in the interim. At Lancaster, the home of Dailey and Goodhart, everybody wants to know when “Tommy and George will be home.”
Strict authorities at Williamsport. Making paste on Sunday prohibited. Plenty of opposition at Connellsville. Two other shows billed in ahead. Persistent rain at McKeesport.
Pittsburg — Two days. Toughest town in America to bill. Butler town authorities object to high billboards. Several days of opposition.
Buffalo keeps the gang hustling. Soldiers off to the war attract attention. Everybody decorates, and the penitentiary flashes a big stretcher, “ Welcome.” The press agent rejoins at Rochester. Brings miserable weather. Peckham returns to the extreme advance. Treager begins to talk baseball, and there are rumors of coming combats on the diamond field. Bat Scanlan calls for Spanish stew at Syracuse, and the manager says: “Remember the Maine, Bat.” The order is rescinded. National guardsman, standing near the car at Schenectady, tells his girl that he “wanted to enlist powerful bad, but he thought it would he cruel to leave his mother.” And the girl says: “Mighty good thing some of you toy soldiers have mothers!”
Sunday and Monday in Troy, N. Y. Ed. Bishop joins. Gets a noisy reception. Is unusually subdued. Declares he has eschewed tanglefoot whisky and all other earthly forms of frivolity, and has been expelled from the Swearers’ Club for non-payment of dues. Shea says, “Rodents,” and the timbers in the car groan. At North Adams, Cook is so busy hunting copy for the program, that he can’t find the car and sleeps at the hotel. Foxy Italian gets three contracts for the side of his fruit shack, and then tries to rent it to an opposition show. Rain at Pittsfield. Everybody in Springfield glad to hear the show is coming again. Band returning from state encampment at South Framingham arouses enthusiasm by playing, “We’ll Rally ’Round the Flag, Boys.” Everybody talks war. Cook creates consternation by declaring that the St. Paul has been captured by the Spanish. Week closes at Athol, the home of B. M. Drake, a former contracting agent of the show, whose death occured in the west during the season.
Rival bill-posting firms at Worcester. The one we don’t use gets out ahead of car and contracts daubs in suburban towns. Public sensibilities jarred by seeing the discarded, but venerable, old city hall, a relic of colonial days, covered with the pictorial announcements of the rival firms. Snowhill says, even Belleville wouldn’t tolerate anything like that. Cook finds relatives at Marlboro. Conner discovers a rube on a country route, who gets interested in the “hip” bill. “Wal, be gosh,” says the rube, “them hogs be purty nigh fat enough to kill.” Kurt Eisfeldt has a ‘cinch’ at Lowell, where he has been associated with the “opery” house during the winter. At Lawrence the manager takes an involuntary soup bath at the dinner table. The girl who drops the soup plate on him giggles and vows she’ll never, never do it again. The manager leaves the table swearing a blue streak, and takes the edge off his appetite at a neighboring refectory. Bishop discovers an oddity in signs at Salem. It belongs to a shoemaker and reads in rhyme:
“Blow, blow, ye gentle breezes,
All amongst the flowers and treeses;
Sing, sing, ye gentle muses,
Whilst I mend your boots and shoeses.
Everybody glad to see Providence again. Bill show here. Belies its name. Anything but “billed.” Completely swamped by the circus pictures. Another comedy “coon,” little Tommy, a seven year old ethiopian, who wings like an old-time minstrel, wants to “join out.” Car has to sneak out of town to get rid of him. Rain at Norwich. Brady, of the American House, makes it pleasant for everybody. The local military company tramps five miles in the mud, and Tom Scanlan declares he’d rather be a Swede than a soldier. Hartford and New Haven are persistently wet. Joe Howard, our old salt, who served with “Fighting Bob” Evans, at Valparaiso, says it is just like being in the navy, except for the salt water. At New Haven Bishop says, he knows the local billboards so well, he could cover them at night backwards and with his eyes shut. There is a suspicion that the old man has transferred his membership from the Swearers’ to the Liars’ Club. At Waterbury Bat Scanlan tries to jolly a man out of a daub, by telling him he always wears a Waterbury watch out of admiration for the town.
Bad hotel at Winsted. Chickens on a strike, and eggs scarcer than hens’ teeth. Two enterprising town girls apply to Stevens, the programmer, for a job “passing bills.” “Steve” falls into a trance and the girls are frightened away. At Amsterdam the Juno that presides over the dining room, announces, “There’s a plate o’ puddin’ and one piece o’ pie — who wants it?” And everybody says, “No!” At supper time the manager takes pity on the gang and changes the hotel. A. G. Ringling visits at Little Falls. Pawnee Bill paper-up. At Weedsport Stevens graduates from programmer to billposter and throws up his first sheet of paper. Bluski, by the merest accident, of course, covers the tyro with paste. Gus Eisfeldt succeeds Stevens as the manipulator of the stamp and ink pad. Bates and Westbrook close.
Long Sunday run across Canada, from Niagara Falls to Montpelier, Ohio. We display an American flag in the Queen’s domains. The Canadians give three cheers and a tiger for “Old Glory” and the gang reciprocates by yelling, “God save the Queen.” During a twenty minutes’ wait at one of the stations, the Canucks are entertained with the “Wabash” and other selections by the Green Car Quartette, accompanied by Hamant on the banjo. Two rival brass bands at Montpelier furnish amusement. A tent show card tries to drain the noise of the local organization which is billed for a benefit at the town hall. The town board claims the victory, but the show gets the money. At Hammond the car is left two miles from the hotel, and the gang has a long drill for breakfast. Graves has a new story. A German farmer, on a route out of Dubuque, critically examines the date figure “one,” in red and blue. “Vell, vell, vell, but dose Ringdole Brudders vas batriotic.” “Why so?” “Vy, de vay dey govers all der valls mit Amerigan flags.” Vat’s your date?” “Why, that’s it — you’re looking at it.” “Chiminy, Grismas! — I dought dat was a flag!” First big show at Cedar Falls, Ia, and the advertising brigade attracts unlimited attention. Citizens, in their anxiety to get the show, furnish lot, license, billboards and even newspaper advertising.
Sunday at Cedar Rapids. Bluski at home. Pilots the boys around to keep them from getting lost. Base ball in the afternoon two miles out of town. Drawn battle in the rain. At Cresco the baseball enthusiasts have a little practice with the new outfit secured at Dubuque. Lose two days making run to Scotland.
Laid out at Woonsocket over Sunday. Second baseball battle of the season. Treager and Titus lead the opposing nines and the Treagerites win a glorious victory. Cook sees snakes, several hundred of them, near the hotel. At Scotland Cook gives a Yankton Indian a cigar and makes a hit with the noble red man. Hoskins takes a box brigade and bills Webster. The car runs through Webster and makes up one of the lost days. Hutchinson also fails to get a visit from the green car. The Hoskins brigade bills the latter town, and Bat Scanlan discovers a Robinson billboard at Litchficld and covers the back of it. “Just to get a depot showing,” he explains. At Sleepy Eye, Hamant entertains the hotel crowd with his banjo and a collection of German melodies. The local daily posts a bulletin that Dewey has given the German squadron sixty minutes to get out of Manila harbor, and the German-Americans crowd around the bulletin-board and roast the “Dutch.”
Lay over at Tracy. Furious baseball battle, third of the season. Treagerites go down in defeat — 32 to 13. The teams: Treager, Tom Scanlan, Stevens, Meagher, Snowhill, Howard, Bishop, Hamant, Kurt Eisfeldt. — Titus, Conner, B. J. Scanlan, Shea, Hoskins, G. Eisfeldt, Graves, Bluski and Pettit. At Brooking, an Indian team from Flandreau, plays the nine from the state agricultural college and Treager declares the game is worthy of professional players. No one questions it. Treager’s dictum on baseball matters is always accepted as final. At Tracy, Ballard wants to kill the town marshal for shooting a dog. A stuffed goat at the hotel at Le Sueur makes a great hit. It has a large and well developed bleating apparatus, which readily yields to pressure, and the gang declares that its intonation of “Ba-a-lard” couldn’t be surpassed by luring man or beast. Everybody has a go at the goat, and Shea suggests taking up a collection and buying it to bleat the gang out of bed Sunday mornings. Nic. Pettit closes, owing to illness in his family. En route from Le Sueur to Windom, pass a certain show at St. James, which is being loaded at the request of the city authorities, who refuse to permit a night performance, owing to the tough character of the outfit. At Luverne, Koettler and Braddock, from Number 3, discover us at the end of an excursion route out of Pipestone, and spend the evening amusing themselves and the gang with excursion pipe-stories. Hoskins sick at Estherville, and “Dr.” Meagher prescribed a blue mass pill and a bottle citrate of magnesia.
Forest City. Hamant and Conner sing into the phonograph and have the novel experience of hearing their own voices reproduced. Rumors of Shafter’s repulse at Santiago makes everybody blue in spite of the fact that it is the “Glorious Fourth.” Snowhill makes a dummy fire-cracker, two feet long, with a hisser for a fuse. Conner creates excitement at the way stations, by “firing” off the monster, and the car moves away amid a storm of laughter. News of the Schley-Sampson naval victory received at Goldfield, en route to Algona. Great excitement all along the line. Arrive Algona 2 P. M. Third game of baseball. Treagerites badly worsted. Game played on the fair grounds, a mile and a half out of town, in the presence of one spectator, who managed to endure four innings before resorting to flight. Grand display of fireworks and paper-balloon ascension at night.
Joe Gouran “joins out” at Peoria. Pawnee Bill follows in Bloomington. The press agent runs against a snag in Lafayette and leaves without making contracts with two of the local papers. Later on the publishers see the light, and their pages are illuminated with the circus “ad.”
Ballard visits kin folks at Indianapolis. Titus spends Sunday with his people at Marion. Hamant closes and returns to Belleville. The manager tells of the wonderful steaks at Portland — juicy fellows, swimming in grass hither. Every one prepares for a feast, and gets it — not. Bert Personet, of Marion, joins at Decatur, and discovers a sign in which the punishment fits the crime. It reads: “Coffee Bros. & Baker, Restaurant and Bakery.” “Windy Bill” Smith meets the car at Hillsdale and tells the gang has to live on nothing a year and grow fat on it.
Sunday at Battle Creek. Blistering hot. Gang take bedding and sleep on flat cars. Jack Holland tells how he sent Hamant on his first country route, and discovered the next day that the novice had forgotten to post the dates. Hot box on run from Lansing to Greenville. Getting out of Greenville, train runs down a grade and can’t get out. Reach Alma too late for hotel supper. Lunch at snake stand near the depot. Very bad. “Ef youse fellers had only a whistled and a-let me know, I’d ’a’ had somethin’ t’ eat fur yez, ” the proprietress informs us. At Cadillac some of the gang try their hand at fishing, without success. Bluski digs up the latest novelty in signs. It is in the city park, and reads: “No lyin’ in the park or bummin’ on benches.”
Bay City. Everybody takes in the lakeside resort. Long run to Port Huron. A. G. Ringling joins at Owosso, and notifies Meagher of his transfer to the financial department back with the show. Run from Ann Arbor to Toledo Saturday night. Most of the gang leave the car, and on returning to the station discover that the “Royal Irish Mail” has been moved four miles out of town. Have to wait until 2 A. M. for its return.
Meagher leaves from Toledo Sunday afternoon for the show. Everyone wishes him success in his new departure. A. G. Ringling takes charge. Stevens gets his first country route at Vincennes.
Car detained in Vincennes, Monday, waiting for shipment of paper. Carload delivered thirty five minutes before train time, Tuesday morning, and all loaded without delaying train. Car runs through Carmi. At Harrisburg a provincial asks the manager if the show is “comin’ binding.” He means “altogether”, without being separated. At Cairo Cook gets into society and is invited to a fashionable al fresco dance. Comes back with a story of a country hop, where all the dancers were barefooted and the fiddler had to carry a pair of tweezers to pull the splinters out of the dancers’ feet. Three days in Kentucky increases the consumption of quinine, calomel and bitters. Metropolis, 111. Hottest Sunday of the season. Hotel mile and a quarter from car.
Metropolis, Ill. Hottest Sunday of the season. Hotel mile and a quarter from car. Bishop, Bluski, Gouran, Conner, Personett and Tom Scanlan sleep under the trees and are overtaken by daylight in dishabille. Howard, Treager and Snowhill spend Sunday at home. At Sparta car gets a new drawbar, and car repairer declares: “’T aint much for nice, but it’s h__l for strong!” Car left in the wilds of East St. Louis, en route to Edwardsville, and gang walks two miles for supper. Later the Irish Mail is moved, and Hoskins, Eisfeldt, Ballard, Stevens, Titus and others have to chase it three miles out of town. Train held, and switch engine sent out to scout for the lost ones. Finally corralled. At Shelbina Manager Ringling gets a message from a physician at Brookfield notifying him that E. M. Burk, contracting agent, is sick in bed. The press agent jumps out to the rescue, and finds Col. Burk suffering from a severe attack of malaria.
The press agent makes Unionville and Clay Lambert contracts Bloomfield and other towns pending Burk’s recovery. En route to Unionville the manager buys a dog. Burk visits during his convalescence. The manager gives his canine bargain a kerosene bath, and the dog sheds his tail hair. Base ball at Unionville. Closest game of the season, 39 to 34. Capt. Treager comes off victorious, and the press agent, officiating as umpire, narrowly escapes being mobbed for giving a rank decision. Kurt Eisfeldt gets a split finger and drops out of the game. The manager comes to the rescue and does heroic work in the field. Col. Burk meets his match at Farmington. Runs against the “pump snake man.” The unwashed peddler of “yankee fiddles” swears he knew a farmer who teached the snakes with so much consideration, that they used to form a hose and pump water into the horse trough from a pond half a mile away. The colonel falls into a semi-trance and acknowledges himself outclassed. At Mt. Pleasant, Burk leaves again for the extreme advance. Titus leaves for home in poor health. Stevens is taken ill on a country route out of Chariton.
The manager goes gunning at Leon. Takes his new dog along. The dog hears the report of the gun, and runs away like a scared rabbit. And that’s the last of the dog. Rain en route to Osceola. Change in the weather. Overcoats at Beatrice. Straw hats called in and local hatters do a thriving trade.
Arrive at Mankato Sunday in a disagreeable rain. Hotel mile from depot. Train that takes us to Herrington crashes into a hack at Wichita, killing live persons and injuring several others, Sept. 13, and 13 persons in the hack. Discover a new Kansas remedy - “Grasshopper capsules.” The live grasshopper is enclosed in a gelatine capsule and the dose is swallowed in one gulp. Conner thinks he is stung by a tarantula and spends a sleepless night with his hand bandaged in a tobacco poultice. Fair in full blast at Enid. Nothing visible but dust. Hail late in the afternoon.
Gain a day at El Reno. Bill the town at night. Best billboards of any town of its size in the country. All high-grade flooring lumber. Jessie J. Sinclair, billposter. Heap big “injun” and squaw. Hot bargains in Indian bead work and elk teeth. Cook describes a Enid populist: “He had whiskers — whiskers that came down to his feet, in Enid — in Enid, they did.” Truthful James also evolves a new description of the "middle of the road populist: “He’s the fellow who walks in the middle of the road to keep his whiskers from getting tangled in the wire fences.” Car leaves Monday, a day ahead of time. Bat Scanlan has a breakdown out of Shawnee, and gets back next morning. Howard has a “pipe” story about sleeping in a house with one room and a family of twelve. Muskogee, Indian Territory, Thursday. One “guy” says to another: “Say, Bill, where’ y’ git that new hat?” And Bill says: “Oh beat a fellow stayin’ awake for it.” Sam McCracken, special agent, joins the car direct from the show, and goes ahead to Ft. Smith. The manager corrals a wild coon. Gus Eisfeldt buys a tame one. A monkey and parrot time at night. The manager gets up a half-dozen times to separate the belligerents, and finally quelches one of the “varmits” by shutting it in a locker. Armed neutrality until daylight. Several two, three and four-day routes out of the territory towns, and the boys see all the Indian country they want, and more. Some one asks at Vinita, whether the tough element behaves on circus day. “They have to,” is the reply. “We have eight deputy marshals, one has a record of dropping thirteen men, and another nine, and the rest of ’cm aint no slouches.” Iron Mountain train live hours late out of Wagoner, en route to Ft. Smith, owing to the train being held up by bandits near Kansas City. At Ft. Smith, town man claims Eisfeldt’s tame coon. Goes away for reinforcements, and the wild coon is substituted. Claimant returns and picks up the animal. There is a grin on his face and a look of severe confidence in his eyes. They didn’t last long. The coon opens up and in thirty seconds is master of the situation. Nobody tells the town man to drop the coon. They don’t have to. He has sudden and pressing business on the outside. And the gang! - oh the gang doesn’t do a thing to the town man.
Pine Bluff. Mike Conner announces that he has completed all arrangements for his new show, “Frozen Ideas.” Describes his new twenty-four sheet stand with an electric fan in the centre. “The fan,” he explains, “is to create a draft.” Kurt Eisfeldt discovers a man named Beard, and forgetfully asks whether “Mr. Whiskers is in.” Stevens has a country route and reports a thrilling adventure with Arkansan goats. There are a hundred or more of the odoriferous quadrupeds, and they devour the circus paper as fast as it goes up. Several athletic goats capture the top sheets by executing a top-mount on the back of a colossal William goat. It’s a strong story, but it goes. Everybody talks about the close, and speculation in regard to the last stand is rife. Railway guides are in demand. History is repeating itself. The same thing occured last year, and every other year in the history of advance. The end will be greeted with mingled pleasure and regret. Another season will be a memory. Speculation in regard to the next will have begun.
Car No. 2.
George Goodhart, Manager.
Billposters:
H. B. Malone, Boss Billposter
|
John Hartman
Chas. Adkins John Raymond Claude Long Dick Leslie Frank Colbert |
Frank Mikesell
Frank Baeder Ed. Gleim George Myers Henry Mahler |
Ordered to report at St. Louis April 7, but a quick switch sends the gang hurrying to Belleville. The car is there, ready for the No. 2 brigade to take possession. Miss Murphyshoro. and go direct to Louisville. No. 1's paper in bad shape owing to heavy rains, and plenty to do. A day ahead in Charleston and hot opposition. Long and Leslie left behind to assist Morton from No. 1. Men sent ahead to make Ronceverte, and the car makes a run of 388 miles to Washington, D. C.
No. 2 stands alongside the Buffalo Bill No. 1 at Washington and Baltimore, and the men fraternize. The knowing ones say it looks suspicious, and intimate that the opposition has been purposely “worked-up” to create talk. At York Adkins gives a boy a bundle of circus newspapers to distribute among the stores. Ten minutes later the boy comes back with three cents and all but three of the papers. “I couldn’t sell any more,” he says. Two days at Lancaster, the home of Manager Goodhart, Hartman, Raymond and our “Little Dutch programmer,” Billy Fritsch. Opposition here, but everybody is anticipating the coming of the “World’s Greatest,” and only good weather is needed to insure record-breaking business. Manager Goodhart entertains the gang at his home.
The first shipment of the new, illuminated half tone book received at Bellefonte. All agree it is the handsomest bit of colored distributing matter ever used to advertise a circus. Plenty of opposition this week, and No. 2 is kept hustling. At Connellsville many a man will long “Remember the Main” show for the way in which it was swamped in the billing.
General gathering of rival show agents at Pittsburg. Fred, Beckman and E. H. Woods, of the Buffalo Bill, in advance of the opposition. At Butler both the Wild West and Main shows try to shut us out, but without success. At Ashtabula Milt Hagan is visited by his wife, a member of the profession, engaged at a local place of amusement.
The fight between Jack Petty and Jim Dailey proves a magnet for the boys at Buffalo. At Utica all hands are invited to visit Sig. Sautelle’s circus, and the proprietor makes an eulogistic announcement of the coming of the big show.
Trouble galore at Troy. Rival billposters, and rival claims for billboards contracted for the “World’s Greatest.” More Wild West opposition, but town beautifully billed in spite of all obstacles.
At Marlboro it is learned that Charles Knox, an old time billposter, is at South Framingham, sick and in need. He is well known to the men of No. 2, and a subscription paper passed around for his benelit receives everybody’s signature and a liberal donation. A telegram is sent to the benefciary, and as the car passes through South Framingham he meets the car and is handed the testimonial. His gratitude is as unbounded as the assistance is deserved. Sandy Grant, “every body’s friend,” and incidentally manager of the opera house, visits at Lawrence. Impossible to do routes here owing to heavy rain, and men have to be left behind.
Sunday at Providence. Pawtucket “does up” New Bedford in the ball field, and some of the gang “lose out.” Memorial Day gives the car a quiet Monday. At Bridgeport nearly everybody discovers old friends and acquaintances. “Bob” McGrath, an old-time billposter, revives old memories and half-forgotten circus stories at Waterbury.
A beautiful lake in the vicinity of Winsted contributes to the pleasure of Sunday in this quietly peaceful little Connecticut town. En route to Poughkeepsie hot boxes create temporary excitement. The car is ordered “laid-out,” paste and paper is hustled into the baggage car and a brigade sent ahead to bill the town. The car, however, succeeds in getting through during the night. Hotels changed at Amsterdam. No explanation necessary. A. G. Ringling visits at Little Falls, and outside towns are lithographed on account of opposition.
En route to Montpelier, the car is side tracked at Detroit, owing to hot boxes. Car is late in arriving. Reeves and Adkins engage in a novel contest. Each wagers the other he will have the longest whiskers at the end of the season, and a new hat is the forfeit to the winner. At Dubuque, Reeves breaks the record for No. 2, in a town of that size, using 2,000 window lithographs in good locations. Owing to opposition, most of No. 2’s billing for Cedar Falls is done at Waterloo, the “big suburb” of the Falls.
Meet car No. 1 of the Sells-Forepaugh show at Cedar Rapids, while waiting for the train to West Union. The erstwhile enemy is treated to lemonade, which is always “on tap” Sundays on the intermediate advance car. At Owatonna, Leslie, who is sent ahead to do a country route, is found seriously ill on arrival of the car, and a few days later leaves for his home at Marshall, Ill.
Spent Independence day at Le Sueur, Minn. Fishing, the order of the day. Embryo Izaac Waltons, all want a “go” at the rod and tackle, and country route romances give way to fish stories for the next two weeks. The car gets a pair of new wheels at Estherville.
A. G. R. visits again and at Eagle Grove induces the manager to take a “short” walk to the river. The river is three miles away and the manager returns with blistered feet and an abiding antipathy for short walks. The lay over at Marshalltown, en route to Hampton, is enlivened by a pleasant visit with the city billposter.
Out of Peoria, Baeder has a breakdown on a country route and returns at noon. Does the route successfully the following day. Martinsville is billed with a box brigade to gain an extra day for Indianapolis.
Two days at Indianapolis. Insignificant opposition with a small Wild West outfit. At Hillsdale the Georgia Minstrels entertain the gang.
The boys line up in front of the car at Battle Creek, Mich., and have a family photograph taken. Between Grand Ledge and Greenville, a careless engineer succeeds in breaking one of the Janney hoods. Hagan makes a country route out of Greenville and asks a fanner’s permission to cover his barn. The farmer says “yes” and Hagan gives him a ticket. Then he goes to the wagon for paper, and on returning is paralyzed to discover that the farmer has tacked the ticket on the barn. “I ’lowed that’s what you wanted me to do,” says the unsophisticated agriculturist.
Three days at Toledo Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Big Sunday showing. One empty on Main street has 450 sheets of paper. Tucker looses his famous dog, “Paste.” Adkins begins to look like “Rip Van Winkle.” Dick Leslie rejoins at Marshall, Ill., fully recovered in health. More wild-west opposition at Cairo.
At Hopkinsville, Ky., nearly everybody goes to see a ball game between rival negro teams, and a hot time is anticipated. The visiting team has come unprovided with mask and gloves, and the home team refuses to furnish them; consequently the game is called off and a disappointed crowd tramps back to town.
En route to Shelbina, a brakeman trying to couple car to train, has three fingers taken off, and a few nights later another Burlington brakeman loses his hand in the same way. Frank Colbert springs a “new one” at Shelbina: “I says to a farmer, says I, ‘Let me put a few pretty pictures on your barn?’ and before the guy can say anything, a parrot back on the porch yells out, ‘Certainly for a family ticket.’ “ This tale of undoubted veracity secures Colbert the sobriquet of “Parrot.” Reeves arrested at Macon City for posting bills without first “seeing the authorities.”
John Raymond has a narrow escape on a country road out of Unionville, Mo. He crosses a small stream in the morning and returns late at night, after the bridge has been washed away by a sudden rise of the water. Thinking the bridge is still in place, the driver urges his horses forward, and men, team and wagon plunge headlong into the stream. Paper, brush and paste can are lost, and men and horses narrowly escape drowning.
Impossible to bill at Leon, owing to heavy rains. The hardest week of the season. Rains every day, and paper from No. 1 badly washed everywhere.
As the end of the season approaches, interest centers on the Reeves-Adkins whisker contest. Adkins is still in the lead, but Reeves may yet win by a hair. Dan Malone, the Tom Ochiltree of the gang, has lost caste, and his wayside tales are recognized as the vagaries of an over-productive imagination. Even the rubes won’t laugh at them any more. Fritsch engages in a new busines - selling postage stamps to the gang and thinks he will raise enough to go to housekeeping. Frank Baeder, once the life of the car, has lost his voice and his comedy smile. “They” say, early rising and long routes are killing him. Humors are rife that John Hartman is to take one of Lancaster’s fairest belles to the altar at the end of the season. John only smiles and says, “I don’t say anything of the kind will happen, but if it does well, the latch string’ll be open for any of the gang that gets around my way.” And the gang agrees that it’s a long time between seasons, and there are worse places than Lancaster to “blow” into during a hard winter.
Car No. 3.
Tom Dailey, Manger
Louis Knob, in Charge of Paper
Excursion Men:
|
A. C. Abbott
Geo. Choffin A. J. Choffin Ed. Braddock D. F. Cline Jerome Diehl Tom Cahill |
L. C. Piepenbrink
Warner Willey E. R. Wentworth Fred Kettler Louis Eisner Tony Crandall M. C. Service |
The “last shall be first” is literally fulfilled in St. Louis, where No. 3 opens the season a week ahead of the “Irish Mail.” To be precise, the excursion car opens March 23, and bills “the city at the end of the bridge” for the opening of the big show at the magnificent Coliseum. Bad weather necessitates re-billing the second and even the third week to some extent, and there is no time for play or pipe stories. The record in the city is 13,983 sheets, with 4,000 sheets of window work. The excursion billing aggregate 8, 277 sheets. No. 3 also thoroughly banners St. Louis.
Everybody is busy at Belleville getting the work organized for the season. At Harrison, en route to Murphysboro, Braddock and Abbott step off the car, the train pulls out and the disgusted couple have to count railroad ties for two miles into town.
Louisville. First Sunday out. Some of the boys see Pittsburg and Colonels play ball. Excursion routes heavy and numerous. At Lexington everyone is greatly interested in the movement of troops to the front. At Mt. Sterling car is sidetracked three hours while troops are passing through. Tom Cahill, a new excursion man, gets mixed in his trains out of Huntingdon, and is gone three days and a half. He is given up for lost, and the manager is about to advertise for a “lost, strayed or stolen” bill poster, when the delinquent turns up. Out of Charleston Braddock gets permission from a colored aunty to cover the side of her shanty. He starts to throw up a monkey hill, but she stops him. “Say, show man,” says the old mammy, “don’t yo’all put up dat t’ing. De las’ circus man put up a monkey an’ de white folks done call me monkey evah since.” And Braddock gallantly compromises with a “hip” bill and the Lockhart elephants.
At Washington bad handling causes the car to lose a step. A. G. Ringling here. First installment of colored books received. Bad weather in Baltimore. City splendidly bannered by opposition brigade under direction of A. G. Ringling. Mrs. Dailey and Miss Marguerite Dailey, the manager’s wife and seven year-old daughter, visit. Car runs through York. At Lancaster, the home of the manager, everyone gives him the glad hand and suggests the desirability of a “comp” or two. “Are you friends of mine?” asks the manager. “Why, certainly,” is the response. “Then buy your ticket and support the institution that pays me my salary.” Another step smashed by a careless train crew. Freight trains are the order of the day - and night - and everybody wonders how much of the car will be left by the time passenger runs are a reality again.
Bad run into Williamsport. Arrive at 1 p. m., via “freight express.” Another rough freight run into Bellefonte. Kettler declares it gives him mal de mer, and one of the new men says, “yes, I was afraid of gettin’ thirsty, too, and I got a bottle o’ sody pop at the last town.” Meet W. H. Horton at Johnstown, with opposition brigade. Pleasant visit with Wm. Kolder, of the Cambria Theatre. Mrs. Dailey leaves for home from Connellsville. Find that No. 2 has already drained the opposition here. Owing to delay in arriving, McKeesport has to be billed late Saturday night in a heavy rain.
A. G. Ringling and his brigade at Pittsburg. No. 3 uses 7,496 sheets of paper in the “Smoky City.” A. G. R. secures Duquesne Theatre boards and an old building at Sixth and Liberty streets, thus giving the “World’s Greatest” the best location in town, in the face of strong opposition. One show ahead of us and another to follow at Butler, Chas. Medley, manager of the opera house at Beaver Falls, and Chas. Keiss, both former excursionists on No. 3, visit at New Castle.
Buffalo has plenty of work for the excursion tourists. Chas. Fillbrick and other local bill posters “drop around” and tell us “how it happened” in the old days when they were “on the road.” Heavy excursion routes out of Rochester. Preacher calls on the manager and asks for some “bills to peddle among his congregation,” ten miles out of town. “Won’t cost you anything,” he says, “always like to advertise a moral show.”
A. G. Ringling’s brigade is in full possession of the town at Troy, but excursion routes loom up big. Kverybody looking for the show and a big day anticipated. At North Adams George Choffin has his coat ground under the wheels of a railway train. He lays the coat on the platform while he covers a daub and the suction of a fast train draws it under the cars. Choffin, holding up the disintegrated garment: “Well, what do you think of that for a railroad cut?” Very stormy day a Springfield. Ellsner and Herod close. The manager renews acquaintance with Perkins, the genial city bill poster.
Decoration Day Discovers No. 3 in Worcester. W. H. Horton joins as route inspector. Joe Plant, Dave Holbrook and J. McCloskey, old time bill posters, visit. Another big rain storm at Salem, Jas. Lyons, who was associated with the manager during the season of 1891, visits.
Providence forgets its Puritanism and has a Sunday base-ball game - that is to say it tries to have, but the players fail to materialize, much to the disgust of the excursion “bill” gang and several thousand other reputable American citizens. Robt. McGrath, an old-timer, drops in at Waterbury, and gives the gang a few pointers on success, of which he has had a well-deserved share.
At Winsted the car is anchored under the windows of a pin factory. Some of the boys are still writing six page epistles to the fair pin makers. All the gang are supplied with pins ad lib., and one of the exceptionally lucky ones is presented with a handsome pair of sleeve buttons by a pretty admirer. At Niagara Falls several men representing a small opposition show are arrested for helping themselves to our boards without asking permission, and fined.
Montpelier! “Westward, ho!” is now the cry, and everybody in the car heaves a sigh of relief. Drummer eulogies New England and the landlord says: “Oh! yes the East is the greatest country on earth — to a man who never saw the West.” Daubs are plentiful again, and Kettler’s scheme to anchor 24-sheet pictorial banners on captive balloons falls flat. Hammond brings us still nearer to the “wild and wooly” west. Town guy tells of a man “just west o’ town” who pawned his old gray mare “to git money to see the last show.” And Abbott says: “Pshaw! that’s nothing; we ‘hang up’ several hundred elephants every day, and we don’t have to pay to see the show, either.” On the run to Sycamore the Belt Line damages the car and runs it in the Chicago yard to be repaired. As soon as the city limits are reached everybody drops off. The car is lost in the labyrinth of terminal tracks, and finally reappears at 5 a. m. the next morning at the Northwestern depot. The boys came straggling in, one after another, after spending the entire night looking for the excursion “box.” At Dubuque Knob and Cahill meet with an accident. The bottom drops out of a barrel of paste they attempt to load on the car, and the “dope” covers them from head to foot. It’s fun for the gang but tough for the victims.
Indian curios prove a strong magnet at Pipestone. Everybody invests in redstone pipes, napkin rings and watch charms. A miniature reproduction of an elephant is very much in favor. Scotland is passed by to avoid losing time.
No. 3 celebrates the Glorious Fourth at Webster. The quietest day on record. The town is “locked up,” and the residents go to other places to help their neighbors celebrate. A traveling man and the hotel porter furnish the only excitement of the day. The former defends the Spaniards and the latter knocks him down and literally wipes the floor with the defendant of the Dons. A man who has been in Cuba says: “Great, ain’t it? only needs a couple of machetes to make it the real thing.” While lying at Sleepy Eye advertising car No. 1 of the John Robinson’s Show passes through. Wm. Dale, manager, and George Cook, programme manager, extend fraternal greetings.
Forest City furnishes a surprise. The landlord invites the boys up to the desk and turns on his phonograph. The voices of Sam Hamant, Mike Conners and W. D. Coxey, of car No. 1, readily recognized. Tony Crandall closes at Eagle Grove, to join the “Other People’s Money” company for the fall and winter season.
Peoria offers opportunity for heavy railroad billing, and gets it. Over 6,000 sheets in country and 450 renewed in town. Dan Cline, former city bill poster, meet many old acquaintances. Someone asks: “Which do you prefer, Dan, traveling or being located?” “Oh, staying in one place is all right in its way,” says Dan, “but you’ve got to travel if you want to see the country.” At LaFayette Kettler closes to join the advertising staff of Bijou Theatre, Chicago. W. C. Kelley and L. G. Piepenbrink join.
Indianapolis gives No. 3 a big day. Billing runs into the thousands. Bill poster asks a Hoosier, on a country route, which he intends to visit, the circus or the Wild West. “Hev’ th’ got animals with t’other show?” asks the Hoosier. “No,” is the reply. “Then,” says the Hoosier, ‘that settles th’ Wild West. I ain’t a-perilin’ my soul’s salvation by goin’ t’ no show without animals.”
En route to Bay City Twesne stands on the platform of a way station and lets the car pass him. As that is the last train for 48 hours he is compelled to walk eleven miles to get a Flint & Pere Marquette train for his destination. Heavy customs exacted by the Canadian officials on paper for billing Sarnia and vicinity excite the manager’s wrath, and compel him to say mean things about the Queen’s government in seven Irish dialects and a smattering of Lancaster Dutch.
Toledo gives a quiet Sunday and a Monday of heavy excursion billing. En route to Vincennes Choffin and Kelley fail to awake and are carried through the town. Have to walk back several miles at a double quick pace in order to catch the car which leaves at 6:10 a. m. Buffalo Bill men follow us at Vincennes and precede No. 3 at Carmi.
Wentworth closes at Cairo. Town heavily bannered. Kentucky towns produce nothing but promises of good business and an exceptionally pronounced brand of malaria.
At Sparta W. C. Kelley is slightly injured by being caught between the car and a pile of lumber. Closes. At Edwardsville receive first installment of new excursion one sheet. Warner Willey closes at Louisiana owing to illness.
Unionville brings a heavy storm. Rains hard all day. Paper has to be renewed in town and country. Bloomfield has to be made in an hour and fifty minutes in order to make the next train. Twesne drops out at Farmington.
Cline makes a railroad route out of Shenandoah, and agriculturist says: “Them boys showed in Imogene seven or eight years ago.” Cline says: “I guess not.” “Oh! yes, they did — I know better.” (Looking at the portraits.) “That feller in the middle druv the band wagon, and he was so doggoned red-headed his hair looked like a house afire.” At Auburn the county fair is in full blast, and the town is full of Hi’s and Jonases who look upon the bill-posting brigade with wonder and half defined suspicion. At Beatrice the boys lined up to have their picture taken, with the car for a back ground. At night a hobo stops under the car window and wants to know when “this caboose goes out.” He is informed that he will have to walk to the B & M if he wants to jump a freight. “Oh! that’s too far, I can’t walk it.” “Hire a hack, then.” “Well,” and thoughtfully, “that’s a good idea. What’ll you chip in towards it?”
The Indian country seems to bring the end of the season in view. This is intensified by reports of yellow fever in the South. Texas comes as a surprise. Bill posters who have been offering big odds on Cape Girardeau as the closing stand try to hedge. Nevertheless all feel that the end cannot be long delayed; a few days or weeks at most. Winter plans are as plentiful as negroes on a Louisiana show day. Abbott forgets to spring his “pipe” stories, Knob plans new novelties in theatre “props,” Cline springs a proposition for a bill posters’ syndicate to control a new scheme for illuminated bill boards; several other whisper mysteriously of “angels” who propose to back them in repertoire novelties, and every other man solemnly declares that “this is his last season on Number Three.” And next season? Oh! - the boys will be on hand as usual. The fall plans will vanish under the cold frosts of winter; the hardships of life ahead of the white tents will be forgotten; the pleasant side only will be remembered and eager and willing they will return — most of them — to the fascinations of a life that is irresistible to nine out of ten men who have ever been absorbed into it.
St. Louis, Mo. April 11th to 20th. The season of 1898 marks the fifteenth annual milestone in the history of the World’s Greatest Shows.
It was fourteen years ago last spring that the original nine wagons upon which everything comprising what was then called the “Old Yankee Robinson and Ringling Bros.’ Great Double Shows” were first hauled from town to town by a very “measly” lot of horses.
Fourteen years is not a long time when reckoned by years, but when computed by days and all by all the events crowded into those days, a great long panorama of past history and events unfolds itself to the memory and makes those few years seem like an age. Circus life is brimful of these events, and each season has enough of them to fill a book. Therefore, almost every show publishes a volume at the end of each season known as a route book, which chronicles the events of the season, and that is the apology for the publication of this volume. To tell the most important happenings and many of the minor ones and to incidentally leave a memento of one of the most important seasons in the history of the great show in the hands of the hundreds of employees who each in his or her way contributed by personal effort toward the success of the season of 1898, is the mission of this little book. To many out of the profession, there may be much of interest in the following pages. And then again, there may not be. It rests entirely with the disposition of the reader, whether he interests himself in the world as it exists outside his own immediate sphere, or not. To cut what might become a long introduction short and avoid unnecessary and perhaps tiresome digression, the Ringling Brothers’ World’s Greatest Shows opened the season of 1898 in St. Louis. Mo., in the immense Coliseum building extending from 13th to 14th streets, and from Olive street two blocks toward Washington avenue. The season in the big structure lasted from April 11th to 21st inclusive, and was a marked financial and artistic success from the opening night to the finishing performance.
St. Louis had never before seen a circus in a building, and the people of the great city on the banks of the “Father of Waters” were on the qui vive for months before the inauguration of the great event. For a number of years previous to the season just past the opening of the World’s Greatest Shows had occurred in Chicago in the Tattersall building, and the transfer of the great opening made many St. Louisans feel that the trend of big amusement events was toward the metropolis of the Great Southwest.
Opening day, April 11th dawned bright and clear. For almost two weeks previous the trainloads of circus paraphernalia had been arriving, and preparatory to the event rehearsals by the army of artists, performers, musicians, etc., had been given. The preparation of aerial and other acts requiring apparatuses to be adjusted to the dome of the Coliseum had been completed.
April 11th found every person on the roster present, every rope in its place and a crowd on the streets of St. Louis such as the city had perhaps never seen before.
The parade was advertised to leave the Coliseum at 8:30, and promptly at that hour it started. The entire route was lined with dense throngs that filled every available point of vantage, windows, balconies. doorsteps and sidewalks, while the streets held the overflow. The street cars of the entire downtown district were in a condition of chaos and for over four hours the entire city was given over to the circus. Though the 400 horses in the parade were green from winter quarters, and the score of elephants had not seen street cars in five months, the casualties, aside from one, were few and insignificant.
A team of eight horses on the yellow band wagon became unmanageable on Easton avenue, but with rare presence of mind and consummate skill George Stump, the driver, seeing that he was powerless to check them, kept them in the middle of the steeet until he met an electric car, against which he dashed. The sudden shock had a quieting effect on the team, one of the “wheelers” being thrown under the car wheel, resulting in a broken leg, thus averting what might have been a terrible catastrophe, with great loss of life. The side show band, who participated in this mad flight, were not slow, at this point, to escape from their perilous position on the wagon, and with blanched faces thank their lucky stars they were still numbered with the living. The horse ridden by Miss Geyer also became unmanageable and rearing, threw her backwards on the rough pavement, but luckily she escaped with a few slight bruises. Another accident was the severe shaking up received by a negro lad who, becoming tired with walking, attempted to reach a seat under the big band chariot on the axle, but slipped, and a crushed foot was the sad result. But one accident marred the even tenor of events during the ten days following, this being painful injuries received by Miss Rosa Dockrill, who fell from the horse during her principal act and struck the ring curb. She was in her accustomed place, however, in two weeks’ time. Although our engagement here was filled with “war” and “rumors of war,” the notable “Declaration of War” being made while here, and public excitement was at its highest tension, yet it seemed in no way to affect the large crowds who wended their way twice daily to the Coliseum building, and public interest never lagged from the opening to the close. It was from this city, April 14th, the telegram was sent to the secretary of war, Russell A. Alger, which received universal commendation and showed the patriotism of “The Famous Five.” The appended extract from the St. Louis Post-Dispatch will fully explain:
Elephants For Cuba.
Ringling Brothers Make a Tender of Their Herd to the War Department.
For the Artillery Service.
They Have Been Used Successfully in India and Could be Utilized in Various Ways.
Ringling Brothers have decided to offer the government the use of a herd of twenty-five trained elephants for light artillery service in Cuba when war shall have been declared.
The value of the elephant in such service has been fully demonstrated in India, Burmah and elsewhere in the East. Its great strength, endurance, docility and sagacity make it almost invaluable in places where horses and other methods of transportation are unavailable. Elephants are not only useful in hauling heavy artillery over rough roads, underbrush and fresh trails, but guns of lighter caliber can be strapped to their backs and they can be trained so that they can be fired from that vantage, and the elephants remain perfectly still, unfrightened by the noise and concussion.
Alfred Ringling, who originated the plan, thinks the animals can be utilized in various other ways. They are great swimmers, and they could be used to transport troops and supplies over unbridged streams in the interior.
The animals could be equipped with coats of mail, as they are in India, and a herd so armored would form a movable fort of great utility in the open field, and would be a shelter behind which a considerable force could operate at considerable advantage.
Some of the elephants did service in the Indian mutiny. They live to a great age and the young elephants which did duty then are still in the prime of life and vigor. Natives of the tropics, the animals would not be affected by the climate of Cuba, as is the case with imported horses, and as the Ringlings have elephant keepers and trainers who are willing to enlist to direct their movements, they think their herd would prove a valuable addition to the American forces in Cuba, should that country be occupied in carrying out the plan of armed intervention.
With the approval of his brothers and partners, Alfred Ringling made a formal tender of the herd Thursday in the following telegram to the Secretary of War:
St. Louis, April 14.
Russell A. Alger, Secretary of War.
Washington, D. C.:
In the event of war can we place at the disposal of the War Department twenty-five elephants for special artillery service in Cuba? Some of them have served in the Punjaub. and neither the climate, food, swamps nor underbrush of Cuba could interfere with their utility. In the heavy underbrush they would be particularly useful, where horses cannot travel freely. They could be armored so heavily as to be utilized as moving forts. We have men here fully competent to handle the animals, who are anxious to enlist, and the value of elephants in light artillery has been fully demonstrated in India.
Ringling Brothers.
Belleville, Ill. Friday. April 22. The road season of 1898 was formally opened here. Of course there was the usual hand-shaking of old friends of former seasons; the pleasures and hardships of the past winter discussed; the sizing up of new forces. etc.; the spread of canvas examined by critical eyes and compared with other shows, and former seasons; the band, parade and performance receiving its share of attention from the employes - thus in its baptism of criticism, favorable and unfavorable, the World’s Greatest Shows inaugurated its fifteenth road season. The side show people began their season here as the “Museum of Wonders” was not a factor in the St. Louis engagement. August Neubauer, who was with us in ’97, lives here and spent the day with his musician friends. We had a rainy day here, which, however, failed to dampen the ardor of our large and enthusiastic audience.
Murphysboro, Ill. Saturday. April 23. A rainy day greeted us here. The lot however, was grassy and situated near Logan Park, so named in honor of the late John A. Logan, who was once a resident of this little city. Owing to the inclemency of the weather, no wardrobe was used in parade, and all were more or less drenched. Guy Repaaz, of mounted band fame, rode a notionate animal who conceived a sudden ambition to desert the parade and investigate the interior of “a blind alley.” Well, Guy went into the alley with the horse and there we left him. By the time he had dismounted and turned the horse around the parade was lost in the distance, the Bell wagon was also left on the lot on account of the deep mire. Business big in spite of the war of the elements.
Louisville, Ky. Monday. April 25. Arrived late on Sunday. Long run from Murphysboro. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Fisher visited by the former’s brother and sister-in-law; also by their son Horace, who is intending school at Louisville. Horace Fisher was one of the gymnasts of the World’s Greatest in ’97. Major Rheinbeck, midget, joined the side show attractions. Tremendous business both afternoon and evening.
Lexington, Ky. Tuesday. April 26. This is in the heart of the famous Blue Grass region, the home of beautiful women, fast horses and fine whiskey. The wardrobe men were given charge of a troupe of trained dogs, which arrived here today. Their musical qualities were not up to the standard, but as fighters they were the limit, at least so Shafer avers. Weather beautiful. Arrived late. Long haul to lot, and considerbale trouble was experienced in getting our heavy wagons placed in the soft grounds. In spite of these disadvantages the parade was only one hour late. Business was good at both performances. Jas. Schrader, a candy butcher, was called home by telegram as the company of militia, of which he was a member, was ordered out for duty. Wm. Wilson joined the “little store” force.
Mt. Sterling, Ky. Wednesday. April 27. Fine day. Arrived early. Parade out on time. Everything is working as smoothly as if the show had been out for months. Everyone has learned his place and the clock-like regularity so much wondered at by the thousands who view the working forces handle the trains, horses, tents and other departments, has assumed its mid-summer aspect. The show grounds were lined with snack stands from which colored folks dispensed hot coffee, barbecued shoat, ’possum cake, fried fish and Washington pie. Weather line. Business good.
Huntington, W. VA. Thursday. April 28. Nice day. Late in arriving, but parade was out on time. Lot was covered with big sewer pipe. The first annual meeting of the “Pot Gang” was held here and the following officers were chosen: Chas. Evans, layer-out; John Coliton, camp-fireman; Kerry Cowjack, steward and manager, and W. Spencer, treasurer. The “Pot Gang” is an order entirely devoted to the interests and pleasure of the animal men, who will have many a pleasant night lunch as a consequence. Steaming viands, cooked at a camp-fire near the bull cars, combining with good fellowship and comeradie to while away many a long summer evening between the closing of the menagerie and the starting of the big troupe for the next stand. Long life to the “Pot Gang,” and in the words of the Kaiser, “gut heil.”
Charleston, W. VA. Friday. April 29. Capitol of West Virginia, and first capitol city of the season. Long toll bridge here over the Kanawha river, and many of the people, not knowing that the Ringling Brothers had paid the toll for the entire company, submitted to bring held-up by the toll-gate keepers. Two regiments of West Virginia volunteer infantry are in camp three miles up the river here. The boys made the night lively with songs, speeches and gayety. The pole-wagon had to be unloaded at several corners, the wagon turned and the poles reloaded on account of the narrow streets. Mart Schuler, layer-out of the Sells-Forepaugh show, which follows us here one day, was here in the interests of his employers. Attempted shakedown on the lot, which was squelched by the lot owner. Business big afternoon and night. Coxey, press agent, was a visitor.
Ronceverte, W. VA. Saturday. April 30. Beautiful grounds here, situated in a picturesque valley and bordered by a pretty brook. Al. Ringling and Prof. Lockhart fished in the stream and on their return to supper Earnest Haley asked what luck they had. “Nil,” replied Lockhart. “What do you mean?” said Haley. “Oh, nothing.” Two old Confederate batteries were situated just above the lot, the ruins of which attracted many of the sight-seers. In the valley, hardly wide enough for the big top, one-half of the parade moved while the balance was seen a hundred feet down, but only two blocks distant. Some of the first band felt rather nervous as the big chariot rocked over the rough streets, for fear they might knock out some of the skylights in the buildings beneath. Mr. White, of minstrel fame, now a resident of Portland, Ind., visited. One show only was given here on account of the long run before us to Washington, D. C., and the wise ones laid in a goodly supply of lunch, which was certainly appreciated the next day. The mountaineers partook quite freely of the orange cider, which lacked the effects of the “mountain dew,” with which they were more familiar. Business good, and the “ghost” gladdened the hearts of the workingmen.
Washington, D. C. Monday and Tuesday. May 2 and 3. The National Capitol, situated on the banks of the Potomac river, and surrounded by places of interest dear to the heart of every American citizen. It is here the laws are made and upheld that control the destinies of a great nation, which is now battling for the freedom of a weak country which has thrown off the yoke of tyranny which has oppressed it so long, and the city is full of war talk and the cry of “War Extra” is heard on every hand. We arrived late Sunday night, but Monday, bright and early, found us on the lot on East Capitol avenue. The parade was out on time, and was an innovation to many who did not believe the circus bill boards. The majority of “troupers” spend all their spare time in viewing the many public buildings and other places of interest — the Capital building, Congressional Library, Treasury, and the Washington Monument receiving the greatest percentage of “tourists,” many of whom contributed umbrellas and small parcels that they left with the door tenders and under the excitement of the occasion came away without them. Ed. Brady and Van Cleve each contributed umbrellas to the hungry horde of government clerks. Joe Le Fluer left for his home in Providence, R. I., to give his knee proper rest. This city is the home of the Carrolls, who spent the time pleasantly visiting relatives and friends. This is where the hen said she had been “laying for them,” and they had eggs for breakfast. Very tough and saucy negroes here. News of the victory of Manila, in which Commodore Dewey placed the entire Spanish fleet hors de combat, received here and the populace are wild with excitement and delight.
Baltimore, MD. Wednesday and Thursday, May 4 and 5. Arrived here 6 a. m. Long haul to lot, which was cramped and rather small for the “World’s Greatest.” Another two-day stand and also experienced cold, rainy disagreeable weather. Our parade was given on the 4th inst., and was witnessed by thousands of people who crowded the streets over the entire line of march. By the way the “line of march” was rather long and much “tired feeling” was experienced by all before the while tents were found. To those who were with the show here, Baltimore will always be associated with the “crab man,” for his familiar voice was heard from early morn to late at night, “crabs, here, your crab man - crab man’s comin’ — crab man’s heah — crab man’s gone.” Mrs. Dave Costello and her menage horse Dan joined here. Harry Rickley found the town too large for him and had to secure the assistance of the police to find “just where he was at.” Phil Woods, formerly of the Barnum show, visited his many friends in band and dressing room. Miss Mollie Rawson, having friends here, was detained so late that it required the combined efforts of the ladies in the dressing room to prepare her for the tournament.
York, PA. Friday. May 6. Very bad day, cold and rainy. The heavy wagons had to be hook-roped over a slough thirty feet in width. Bon fires were in great favor. “Ice cold lemonade” was changed to “hot peanuts” by the “up-to-date” butchers. Princess Ami has pictures taken here. Jno. Jennings is visited by his wife and children, son-in-law and grand child. In spite of the disagreeable weather our business was good. Mr. Rofter, the keeper of the Yak, took a high dive last night without the customary use of the net, from his upper bunk to the floor. The car sill, however, stood the strain, but Robt. Taylor informed him that a net must used hereafter. It was all night work getting off the lot here owing to the wind and rain, and long after daylight before the trains were on their way in their next stand. Hot coffee and sandwiches were heartily enjoyed by all at the cars before leaving.
Lancaster, PA. Saturday, May 7th. Arrived here very late on account of very bad lot at York, but parade got out on the streets by noon and the big show started on time. The weather was cool and there was slight rain. Ed. Smith took the prize here for hauling thirty boxes of pop corn on a two-wheeled hack. The candy-men aver that the “neighbors” here wanted four or five cigars for a nickel. Balloon men joined here. Jack Gee received the first order for a suit of clothes by the always popular tailors, Peck & Behrens. E. W. Smith shaking hands with many friends here. Theodore Breedy received a pleasant visit from his son George, and brother John, of Reading, Pa. Mr. Ross, trombonist, received fourteen letters and a big box by express. Adam Forepaugh, the famous circus manager, in company with his wife and a party of friends who came over from Philadelphia, visited the show here today and was delighted with the magnitude and superlative character of the big show. The lot owner here refused to let the wagons pass over the only available outlet from the lot at night, but “what the eye does not see the heart cannot grieve over,” and so while the worthy lot owner was busy dispensing several “achtels” and other antidotes to rainy weather, great things happened. This is the home of Tom Dailey, manager of our advertising car 3.
Williamsport, PA. Monday. May 9th. This is our Sunday town, but the boys all wear a disgusted look as their opportunities to spend money are few. However, the landlords of the several hotels make it as pleasant for them as secrecy will admit. Maj. Kilpatrick visits his sister here. D. Burk, Portland. Ind., and Henry Slull, who was in the side show band in ’96, visits many friends with the show and furnishes a few glasses to wash it down with. On Sunday eve. May 8th, the Royal Herd of the Ancient Exalted Order of the Elephant - an order whose origin dates back but a year, being organized with the “World’s Greatest” in Detroit, July 15, 1897, held its annual meeting here in the parlor of the principal hotel. The following officers were elected to serve the coming year: W. H. Van Cleve, R. H.; Fred Madison, R. G. E.; Jack Sullivan. R. T. K.; Geo. Heiser, R. T; Warren Patrick, R. K. S.; Paul Matthews, R. M. U.; Rhoda Royal, R. K.; Robt. Taylor. R. Pj. Much interest was manifested and many questions of importance disposed of. The Henry Distin Musical Instrument factory is also situated here and the musicians availed themselves of the opportunity to get needed repairs, etc., as well as see how horns are made. We erected our tents on a fine dry lot near the Distin factory and business was very good.
Bellefonte, PA. Tuesday. May 10th. Arrived here on time. Weather pleasant. Business good. One of the canvasmen gives the following version of a conversation between himself and a visitor:
“How-de-do.”
“Hello.”
“Are you with it?”
“Yes.”
“Are you one of the staub drivers?”
“Yes.”
“You get a chance to see heaps of country, eh?”
“Yes.”
“This is the best show town in the state, and you’ll have a bigger
crowd tonight than this afternoon. Do you all travel by cars?”
“Yes.”
“How many of you be they?”
“O, about 950.”
“Do you all sleep in one car? Do you all eat on the grounds? Are all the
Ringling Brothers with the show? Are they all actors?”
The canvasman claims to have escaped the five hundred other questions that were hurled at him.
Johnstown, PA. Wednesday. May 11th. Arrived here late but parade was out as usual. Weather here beautiful. Lot very crowded and covered with cinders, which the spring breeze blows up in little clouds of black dust. Perfect order and quiet prevails on the grounds among the thousands of sight seers. Old-timers say this is an innovation of the Johnstown that existed before the flood, when a circus day without several Hey Rubes was not known here. Many shudder at the inclined cable railway running up almost perpendicular to the top of the mountain, while others eager for adventure ride to the dizzy height. O. A. Menges and others, who made the trip, say it imparts a thrill not to be measured by the feelings inspired by a ride on the Ferris wheel.
Connellsville, PA. Thursday, May 12th. This city is situated in the heart of the coke regions and our trains pass between miles of coke ovens, their bright fires burning and the smoke so thick that the light of the sun is often obscured for days. Again the rain fell in torrents during the parade and many vindictive anathemas wore uttered against the manner in which the weather bureau “soaks” us. Business good. W. D. Carr, John D. Carr and Miss Edna Carr visit their aunt, Miss Millie Turnour. Butch Parsons reports heavy sales in cheap cigars.
M’Keesport, PA. Friday, May 13. Arrived late but it was not long before the voice of Frank Parsons, that winning voice — was heard saying “Come on, boys.” While John Rooney was doing his dancing rope one of the springs of his apparatus broke and a piece of it struck him in the eye causing a painful but not serious injury. John is not superstitious but he says the next time Friday comes on the 13th of the month he will examine that spring more carefully. This is the childhood home of Mr. John Hamilton, side-show door-keeper, the oldest man in the employ of the World’s Greatest Show and who has been here since 1885. John was visited here by many school boy and school girl friends of fifty years ago. Business here good. Weather good.
Washington, PA. Saturday, May 14. Arrived in good time. Robt. Taylor experienced considerable trouble in unloading owing to the lack of sufficient track room. One of the horses attached to the yellow band wagon was so severely injured in the cars as to necessitate killing. Ned Walton, a bass player, who has quit the business and is now landlord of a hotel in a neighboring town, visits his friends in the band. Harry Rickly visits friends here and prepares to spring a surprise on the boys two days later. A. J. Roos leaves for a visit over Sunday in North Amherst, Ohio. Business big and weather fine.
Pittsburg, Pa. Monday and Tuesday. May 16 and 17. Many of the people spent Sunday here looking at the bulletin boards and reading the war news. Monday morning opened cold and rainy. A regular midway on the outside of the lot including a swell carousal owned by Mr. Bostock. The latter and Mr. Lockhart exchange reminiscences of old times in Merry Old England. Ed. Smith receives a visit from Dick Wright, an old time butcher. Bob. Robinson visited by relatives. Ed. Devan misses parade. The 400 horses of our superb stables of aristocratic equines were introduced on the hippodrome track. A heavy rain storm accompanied by a terrific wind occurred during the afternoon performance Monday, and for a few moments created consternation among the audience. Everything passed off however without mishap and although the quarter-poles did a merry dance for a few minutes the big top stuck to her moorings though she heaved and strained and rocked under the mighty blows hurled at her by the elements. Millie Turnour, sister and nephew, at the time, were sitting near the band stand and Miss Turnour experienced considerable difficulty in calming her friends while subduing the palpitation of her own heart. One young lady in the audience fainted from fright. One of the canvasmen fell from the river bridge here but was not injured. He was dubbed Steve Brodie, a name he will probably keep as long as he sports the festive sledge with a circus gang. Drivers and grooms saw a base ball game between Pittsburg and St. Louis in the adjoining ball park from the top of the big band wagon and loudly applauded St. Louis. Mr. and Mrs. Connors visited relatives and friends here. Asa Cummings meets friends of U. C. T. fame, Mr. and Mrs. Langstaff. Uncle John Hamilton is visited by his sister-in-law and some friends.
Tuesday, May 17. This city and date will always remain fresh in the memories of at least two persons, for, in the parlance of the “Merchants,” immediately following the afternoon performance, Harry G. Rickley, trombonist, was married to Miss Eva Lacock, of Canonsbnrg, Penn., a non-professional. If the well wishes of the members of the “World’s Greatest” can bring them happiness they will be the happiest couple in existence.
Butler, Pa., Wednesday. May 18. Arrived early. Long, round about haul to the lot, which, however, is grassy and the wagons are easily placed. The day is cold and showers of rain are frequent. Business fair. At the finish of the night’s performance, while audience and “troupers” alike were hustling for shelter; a storm broke in alll its fury, vivid flashes of lightning followed by deafening peals of thunder, and heavy winds, being component parts, and lucky were the ones who were near shelter, the entire concert orchestra, wise boys, took the short cut up the railroad track and the storm caught them while crossing a long trestle. With timorous steps and many misgivings they crossed, some on all fours, others “cooning” until the other side was reached, while the wind blew drops of rain as large as Kansas pumpkins into their garments. Each one had to be wrung out when he readied the sleepers, but all agree to hereafter confine their night wanderings to the public highways.
New Castle, PA. Thursday, May 19. Another cold, rainy day. Will this rain never cease or are we to suffer a second deluge. The only satisfaction we can find is the fact that we are becoming waterproof but our feet as yet are not webbed. Johnny Carroll, feeling in a romantic mood, sat on the steps of the Alvena last night to air his fancies, and unconsciously fell asleep. About seven miles out of here the car giving a sudden lurch threw him into a ditch which contained among other things an innumerable quantity of sand burrs. He was compelled to take a seven mile sprint this morning before breakfast and with Art Adair’s assistance — scissors and clippers — the burrs were finally removed. O. J. Ross in jumping from the band wagon slightly sprained his knee. Severe thunder storm at 3 p. m.
Ashtabula, Ohio. Friday, May 20. Rained in the morning. Cleared slightly during the day and threatened to rain again in the evening. Asa Cummings looked around for familiar faces as he farmed here “once upon a time,” as the story books say, for F. E. Griswold of U. T. C. fame. Ross, trombonist, gets some of Delevan’s horse liniment for a sprained knee, much to the disgust of the other occupants of Henderson car. Cold rainy weather makes a bad day for the refreshment stands but Frank Parsons wears his usual happy smile. He knows that there are hot days coming. Cars were moved about 4:30 and concert people and orchestra enjoyed a four-mile hunt for the dining car Olympus. Business bad.
Erie, PA. Saturday. May 21. For first time in several days, which, however, seems an age, we have a pleasant day — nice, warm, and enjoyable. We arrive early, parade goes out on time, and by night, our recent unpleasant experiences are almost forgotten. Business good, and the press teems with praise of the “World’s Greatest.” This morning one of the jokers slyly turned the dining car clock ahead — and the late risers were later than usual in consequence, also sans breakfast. Clate Alexander, Asa Cummings, and George Connors, proprietors and managers of the largest and most stupendous, consolidated, imaginary Uncle Tom’s Cabin Companies, were closeted with Mr. Walker, of the Erie Printing Co., and made arrangements for an enormous quantity of U. T. C. paper — that is, got his prices.
Buffalo, N. Y. Monday and Tuesday, May 23 and 24. Arrived in good season Sunday morning. Fine day. Major Rheinbeck spends the day with his parents, and on Monday the Major and Miss Bertha Carnihan dine with Mr. Girard, a local museum manager. Trainer Becker had a very narrow escape this morning while cleaning out the swan den. As he was about to leave the tank he was attacked by a large black swan, called Dewey, but luckily Joe McCann, an elephant keeper, came to his rescue, driving the swan off with a side pole. Mr. Becker escaped with a few scratches. Rossiter and Repasz visited musician friends here. Geo. Henderson was temporarily indisposed Monday morning. A great deal of talk today by many who spent Sunday at the Niagara Falls. Many bicycle enthusiasts of the show take advantage of Buffalo’s fine streets and go wheeling. Mrs. Jessie Leon was visited by relatives. Several lady reporters visit the ladies’ dressing room, and are shown through its mysteries by Mrs. Lovenburg, who also escorts the fair pencil-pushers to the dining and sleeping cars.
This city is the home of the famous Buffalo Courier Printing Co., whose genial president. Mr. Geo. Bleistein; vice president, Mr. Bridgeman, and the great and only John Rudolph, with their families, are visitors to the show. A new one-sheet and three-sheet portrait of the Ringling, just gotten out by the Courier company, is first seen here, and shows what wonders in poster lithography the Courier company can perform. Business both days big.
Rochester, N. Y. May 25 Arrived in good time, long haul to the lot, also very poor street car service. Weather all day was dark and threatening. Business big. Millie Turnour again visited by friends. During parade this morning a very sad accident occurred, which flavors very much of the gun that wasn’t loaded, with the exception that this was a horse, but the same fool was driving the horse. In spite of repeated warnings, to which he gave indifferent attention, he maintained his position until the horse saw the elephant; then with frightened leaps the horse sprang into the crowd, trampling down defenseless women and children, many of whom were more or less injured. We certainly hope this wise (?) young man learned a lesson. G. W. Swift spent a pleasant day with his parents, who reside here.
Syracuse, N. Y. Thursday. May 26. Arrived early. Heavy showers at intervals all day long. Good solid streets, but, oh! that lot. It was used for a general dumping ground — filled in with ashes, street refuse, tomato cans, hoop skirts, and worn-out washing machines. The aroma rising from this odoriferous combination was unlike anything we have ever met before. The English tongue, comprehensive as it is, fails to find anything in its vast vocabulary that can begin to express what was wafted o’er the “dump.” Business very good. Mr. Smith, formerly of the Gentry show, visited. Had to build a bridge from the menagerie to the big top — Long connection.
Utica, N. Y. Friday. May 27th. Another cold and rainy day. Lot small and muddy. A bad day for lemonade, but thousands of patrons for the big show. The war show is doing a land-office business. Al Connor’s oration on the scenes portrayed beneath the black tent bring tears to the eyes of G. A. R. men.
Schenectady, N. Y. Saturday. May 28th. Fine day and big business. Big locomotive engines are made in this town. Everything out on time and not a mishap or unusual incident during the day.
Prose Lullabys From the Menagerie. (Copyright. 1898, by Pearl Sowders, LL. D.)
A great crowd pressed forward through the menagerie in the direction of the big top. But there were a few lingeres in the neighborhood of the kangaroo cage. The Australian curiosities were very lively for some reason, and hopped around their quarters in high glee. Perhaps they had heard some one in authority say the show would not go down into the alleged yellow fever district. An aged Reuben and his innocent old wife contemplated the antics of the kangaroos for a few minutes, and the good wife remarked: “Why, Pa, I declare them cats is crippled! It’s a shame to carry them around the country.” Then they passed on towards the big show and “Pa” could be seen a few minutes later wildly waving his cotton umbrella at Nellie Ryland as the charming equestrienne flashed on his vision.
Troy, N. Y. Monday. May 30. Arrived Sunday a. m. and great crowds eagerly watched the preparations on the lot for the morrow. Same old lot. Monday, Decoration day, was fittingly celebrated in the morning. Immense crowds witnessed our mammoth parade. Both performances were given to large audiences which filled every available inch of space in our big tents. Every department brightened with recollections of the “old time” business when doors were closed daily. In the grounds adjoining, the Business Men’s Club gave a holiday picnic, where many enjoyed themselves before and after the performances. All factories and business houses were closed, and the city was veritably given over to the circus. Mrs. Lovenburg, her two daughters, the Bonheur sisters, Miss Rawson and Harry Watson were entertained on Sunday by Mrs. Anna Cooke at her home in Albany, and all reported a very enjoyable time. “Johnstown,” the pony boy, was taken very sick and a doctor was called who gave the boy a critical examination and pronounced it a case of “white mule.” F. W. Brauer, an old-time musician, visits his leader of “ye olden days,” Mr. Geo. Ganweiler. The audiences, adorned in gaudy colors, spring styles, presented a beautiful picture — as the small boy remarked, “Looks like a rainbow had busted.”
North Adams, Mass. Tuesday, May 31. Weather warm and clear. Bad place for unloading and in consequence parade was one hour late. Mrs. Connors did not work, owing to sickness of her little son George. Boys take a bath in the river. Someone alleged that the operation was a shock to Mengas, but he branded the assertion as false. Candy butchers claim to be still with the show, but acknowledge that the weather has been the worst that Mr. Parsons ever experienced. Cold weather and rain have been the rule and a warm, pleasant day like this puts new life into the refreshment spielers, loosens the joints of the actors, puts life into the lips of the musicians, and cheers all.
Pittsfield, Mass. Wednesday, June 1. Arrived early. Long haul to the lot, but good roads, and a nice dry lot facilitated matters and everything was up in ship-shape. The day dawned nice and clear; the people came in town, and the same good business. The following storyette explains itself:
The property me n were riding the ostrich herd to water in Iowa one hot day in September. There was an oppressive languor in the air, and people began to predict a cyclone. The property men dug their spurs into the flanks of the swift-running birds, and they presently arrived on the banks of the streams, whereupon one of the property men said unto his side partner: “Say, Rocks, we might have had a cyclone comin” down to the river, eh?”
“Why, yes, we might. But we didn’t, and you made your spill for nothin’.”
(Moral- Never shoot off your bazoo on “might-have-beens,” when by saving your breath and your lung power you might in course of time become a first class side show spieler.)
Springfield, Mass. Thursday, June 2. Arrived late. This city is full of factories, and all are working. Parade was late. The day dawned dark nnd threatening, but finally cleared up, and the sun went down on a cloudless sky. Business big. Ralph Breed was visited by his brother, Frank P. Breed, of San Francisco, Cal. Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Conners take their sick boy to the hospital here, where an operation will be performed for appendicitis. Many bicyclers are out viewing the immensity of the “World’s Greatest.”
Holyhoke, Mass. Friday, June 3. Arrived early. Lot near the railroad. Weather cloudy, followed by a drizzle which continued all day. Many factories here also. Parade out on time, and as usual found the streets almost impassable so great were the throngs of people. A drunken cop from the Emerald Isle was placed as guard over a small grass plot, and the band came very near losing three of its members, who innocently fell into the hands of this irate “Bull.” A strong use of the English language saved them, however. Business good.
The sad news of the death of little Georgie Conners, who passed away at 4 o’clock this morning, in the Springfield hospital, from appendicitis, fell like a pall over the entire show. When an operation became necessary, he was placed in the hands of skillful surgeons, but the little fellow was unable to rally from the shock. Being naturally weak, the rugged show life was beginning to prove beneficial to him, and he was gradually growing into a strong, robust boy, when this fatal disease attacked him. He was the only child of Mr. and Mrs. George Connors, an unusually bright and lovable boy, who had grown into the affections of many of the members of the show. Many hearts ached with loving sympathy for the sorrowing parents in this, the dark hour of bereavement. Several floral offerings were sent from the different departments and many were the messages of condolence. The following day the body was tenderly laid to rest in the cemetery at Springfield. Mrs. Al Ringling and Miss Ida Ringling attended the funeral obsequies.
Athol, Mass. Saturday. June 4th. A fine day. Lot is away out towards Orange, still the big canvas city rears its many domed, great cloth houses skyward on time, and the parade starts promptly at 10 o’clock. The menagerie receives several additions here, and among them a pair of pure white Chinese peacocks. An immense amount of spectacular wardrobe for the presentation of a big display representing the prowess of American arms, and called “Under the Stars and Stripes” arrives. Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Connors return from the funeral of their son George, and receive the condolences of their many friends, who were unable in show their sympathy by their personal presence at the obsequies. This is the home of B. M. Drake, formerly a contracting agent of the World’s Greatest Shows. The McGibeny family, famous throughout the country as musicians and entertainers, reside here and visit the show as guests of the Ringling Brothers. Years ago the two families trouped in the same territory, and the friendship then conceived has not been dimmed by time.
Worcestor, Mass. Monday, June 6. Arrived Sunday a. m. Fine lot in the driving park. Lots of visitors who stand in open-eyed wonder at the immensity of the “Big Show.” Many spent the day in the parks and other places of amusement, listening to the music of the bands, boat riding, etc. Monday was an ideal circus day, just warm enough to be uncomfortable and give a fellow a desire to wash it down with orange cider. The parade was viewed by great crowds, who attested their appreciation by going all the way through. Some of the boys had a little sport with the show night-watch by attaching a flag halyard to the clapper of one of the Moscow chimes, and kept him hunting for the small boy (who was not the guilty party), while they stood across the lot in the shadow of the trees, laughing at his discomfiture. Paul Matthews, the steward of the dining car, was compelled to go to the hospital here and undergo an operation for appendicitis. He was left in good hands.
Fitchburg, Mass. Tuesday, June 7. Fine day. Business big. Small lot, and big tented city is squeezed into uncomfortably close quarters. Horse tents one-half mile from the big top. Side show hand goes in the new big spectacle called “Under the Stars and Stripes.” About 8 o’clock in the evening a terrific sound, like the discharge of a cannon, was heard on the lot. The many stories of war which, with three-sheet poster type of head lines are keeping the public alive to the fact that hostilities are in progress, had their effect in making the impression on many that a Spanish bomb had heen exploded, but it was soon discovered that an accident had occurred in the black top or war tent. One of the gas bags, which feed the lime lights used in the projecting machine, had burst. Chas. Goff and Mr. Casey were blown over the side wall a distance of twenty feet. A young man in the audience had his hand slightly lacerated, and two boys received slight bruises from flying bits of rubber.
Marlboro, Mass. Wednesday, June 8. Arrived late, and railroad troubles delay us still more, our lot was on the side of a hill and very rough. The Snellen Improvement Company had plenty of work to do and the audience swarmed into the big top before they had finished. The parade was late, but the show commenced about on time. Weather was fine. Business big. Almost forgot to mention that the side show was “swept out.”
Lowell, Mass. Thursday, June 9. Big factory town. Lot just beyond the Atlantic Mills. The parade passed between long lines of mills that made such infernal racket as to cause the blush of shame to mantle the cheeks of the parade bands as they tried in vain to be heard. Clate Alexander visits friends here. Eugene Knowlton visits his parents who live here. Chas. Shields — Adonis while leading black jack, and just common, every-day, hit-the-ball-with-his-head. Jack — two of our trained dogs, out for a little exercise — was almost paralyzed when suddenly he found a dog fight on his hands. He went after the two miscreants with the ability of a Dewey, and soon peace was restored to the canine duo. Charles acknowledges himself a failure as a dog-pitter.
Lawrence, Mass. Friday, June 10. Fair weather. Somewhat cooler. Arrived here a little late, but parade was out on time. Lot was small. John Snellen took a flying trip to Salem, his old home. James E. Rossette, for several years on the ship of Commodore Dewey, then Captain Dewey, is in demand with his reminiscences of life in the U. S. Navy and personal impressions of the hero of Manila Bay. Cole and Agee miss street car, and had a drill of 16 miles.
Salem, Mass. Saturday. June 11. This city was reached in good time. The lot was situated on the shore of the bay, and was very wet and sloppy. The sight see-ers discovered an old log house here, that was built away back in the days when the principal product of this beautiful little city was the festive witch. Parade was on time and business good. Clifford Bouche, Wardrobe Frenchy, lives here and visits with home folks. Willie Millette ran into Boston to spend Sunday with friends. Mr. Al. Ringling and Prof. Lockhart sailed out in the bay with fishing tackle galore, and returned with 30 flounders.
Providence, R. I. Monday, June 13. Sunday was enjoyed by many of the people sight-seeing. The Sisters of Friendship were organised into a club here and celebrated the event by an informal social at which refreshments, including ice cream, lemonade and cake, were served. All the ladies of the show became members of the society. A party of thirty performers took a trip to Rocky Point and enjoyed a shore dinner. The Lovenburgs spent Sunday with relatives. Al. Millett made a flying visit to his home at Fall River, Mass., to spend the day with his wife. The band boys went to Crescent Park to hear Reaves’ Band. Home of Joseph Le Fleur, whose mother, sister and seven brothers visit the show. Mr. Le Fleur’s knee not yet strong enough to permit him to resume work. John L. Sullivan visits show, and the ex-champion also stays to see the concert. Many of the boys take a dip in the river, which runs close to the Reservoir avenue show grounds. Business here was tremendous.
Norwich, Conn. Tuesday. June 14. Arrive late and a two-mile haul also retarded us, and the parade was a trifle late. The afternoon show began at 3 p. m. Heavy showers during the afternoou performance make our damp lot still more sloppy. Business was good, considering the weather. “Over here is where you get them, boys” is still heard, though in a hopeless tone of voice.
Hartford, Conn. Wednesday, June 15. Weather fine. Very muddy lot and a hard time getting on and off of same. Buffalo Bill show was 48 hours getting off of the grounds a short time ago, but we were more fortunate. Parade was out on time. Rose Dockrill was visited by the reverend father of the Sacred Heart Church. During the evening performance Miss Dockrill was presented with a beautiful floral offering.
New Haven, Conn. Thursday, June 16. A beautiful day. We have certainly been realizing the truth of the old song, “Just a little sunshine, just a little rain.” etc. However, the sunshine is our portion today, for which we feel thankful. A nice lot, though a long haul. Crowded streets and big business. The students make things lively during parade. Willie and Erna Millette receive a pleasant visit from their brothers, of Newark. N. J. Mr. Daney was compelled to retire from his box in front of the museum, for a short rest, while Asa Cummings fills the position. Owing to the fact that some of our sleeping cars were one-half inch higher than the rules of the N. Y., N. H. & H. R. R. would allow transported over this division, the inmates were compelled to pass three nights in day coaches. Cushions were at a premium in consequence. Many purchased suits at the Yale misfit parlors. Walter L. Main, Mr. McCarthy, and Doc. Tibbitts, of the Main show visit, while Otto Ringling and Rhoda Royal went over to Birmingham, Conn., to see the Main show. Fred Redburn discontinued.
Bridgeport, Conn. Friday, June 17. Fine day. Long haul to show grounds. Joe McCann busy visiting old friends here and taking in his former haunts along the river front. Rose Dockrill was presented with flowers during the afternoon and evening performances; also a diamond ring. Her aunt, from New York, visited. Miss Dockrill today disposed of her finish horse “Trilby.” Dr. A. S. Richmond, wife and son, are guests of Mr. and Mrs. Al. Ringling, who returned with them to their home in New York city for a short visit.
Waterbury, Conn. Saturday, June 18. Bad lot. Cold and rainy. Bad day for the lemonade men. Jack Crane leaves here to go to his home in New York city. Chas. F. Ryan, our efficient chief of detectives, rounds up five of the light lingered gentry at the side show entrance and turns them over to the police force for safe keeping. Fred Madison led parade here. First band came very near leaving this terrestrial sphere as the result of a low bridge. Ralph Breed had his tuba smashed and several of the boys forgot their usual pleasant smiles for several days. Thanks to the driver, the boys are alive to tell about it.
Winsted, Conn. Monday, June 20. Rained in torrents all day Sunday. A bad lot. Very hilly for the big top, while the menagerie was down in a valley. Mr. Snellan, with his usual ingenuity, solved the problem by running a stairway in the connection. W. A. Patrick spent Sunday in New York city. Mr. Daney, side show orator, returns to show improved in health. Mr. Owen Fass, piccolo and flute, joined the show. Hair cuts and shaves are now to be performed at the wardrobe tent. Here the Indians held their first meeting. They drove out on Sunday to an ideal spot in the woods and pitched their tepees. Dinner was served by Chief Big Indian DaComa, and Chief Squaw Minnie Fisher. The camp was visited later in the day by Messrs, and Mesdames Al. and Alf T. Ringling, who pronounced the Indian bill of fare par excellent and the quality of the Indian dance way ahead of the famous ghost dance. Wm. Rock took a Sunday trip to Philadelphia to visit relatives and friends. At night, after pack-up, the city lights went out and the canvasmen were obliged to light their way to the cars by burning torches made from house programs. Hank Healy fell off a bridge here and received a severe shaking up. Side show people are congratulating themselves upon their return to their own comfortable berths in Car Henderson. The mule colt, Winsted, was born here Sunday, 5:30 p. m.
Poughkeepsie, N. Y. Tuesday, June 21. Arrived 7 a. m. Good lot in the Driving Park. Parade on time and was viewed by the usual crowds. Business up to the standard. During the interval the cars were transferred and a mad hunt for supper ensued. Millie Turnour was visited by her children, who were treated to a ride in parade. Nellie Ryland also was happy in the company of her mother, step-father and niece. Willie and Erna Millette spent the day with their parents, who came over from Newark, N. J., to visit their sons. Geo. Henderson, baritone in the concert band, becoming tired of this changeahle existence, quietly folded his tents, gathering his effects, and we knew him no more. Good bye, George. Ye know not what ye did. Mr. and Mrs. Al. Ringling return from their visit in New York city.
Amsterdam, N. Y. Wednesday, June 22. Late arrival and to cap the climax the lot was in a swamp and many mired wagons the result. During parade a large tree fell overs as the clown band was passing. It is a question in the minds of the citizens of this city whether it was caused by the wind or simply the terrible effects of a blast from Watson’s trombone - the latter probably, as the tree fell in the opposite direction. By night bridges and roads had been built, thus greatly facilitating movements towards the ruins. Business good. The Sisters of Friendship had a banquet here.
Little Falls, N. Y. Thursday, June 23. Weather fine. Bad lot on the side of a hill. Hard haul from runs to the lot. John White says “It’s not always the lion that roars the loudest. Did you ever hear the man with lithograph tickets who has been caught trying to ‘play it down low’ on the show?”
Weedsport, N. Y. Friday, June 24. A beautiful day dawned on the “World’s Greatest” here. Fine lot. Good business. A nice swimming place lured the boys when work [was] over, and the revels indulged [???] minded one of the gambols of a frisky lamb. The side show again indulged in a “sweep out.”
A particularly cunning fox, known all over western New York as A. Sly Reynard, Sr., while on one of his raids just to the windward of the circus on a certain Friday in June, was ravished by certain pleasant odors wafted from the cook tent in this direction. “By my halidome and in good sooth! There must be rare living among these strollers. Mayhap I may light upon a fine fat pullet unbeknown to the ‘Main Guys.’” So saying he stole from the covert and made his way across a corn field and dodged under the side wall of the menagerie, thinking it to be the cook tent. “Ye gods!” he exclaimed, as he beheld the array of lions, tigers and panthers, “what giant foxes are these?” And he forthwith sneaked out and bounded into the wood and hid himself in his hole and wept bitter tears of envy, and was seen no more during the fall.
Moral: Never think yourself the only can in the alley. There are others.
Niagara Falls, N. Y. Saturday, June 25. Fine day, but the wind blew a heavy gale and the canvasmen were kept busy guying out. The Millie Turnour aerial rigging fell during the act of Silver King and narrowly escaped striking the horse while he was being carried on the platform. Chas. Miller, with wonderful skill and quickness, had the rigging back in place on time for Miss Turnour’s act. The dressing room blew down during the afternoon but nobody was injured. Big top blew down here in ’94.
Montpelier, Ohio. Monday, June 27. A long run on Sunday through Canada to this town. Fed stock and animals after leaving Detroit, Mich. Arrived in Montpelier at 10 p. m. Only one show here. John Waltz joins the refreshment department. A. E. Parsons goes to Chicago for a few days’ stay. A heavy shower from noon to 1 o’clock, but big crowds greet the opening of the doors to the big show. The mother of Bessie Da Coma paid her a visit here, coming from Grand Rapids, Mich. After the performance, and while waiting for the trains to pull out, the boys pitched quoits.
Hammond, Ind. Tuesday, June 28. A suburb of Chicago, with a very sandy lot. Many familiar faces seen on the lot, who have taken advantage of the short distance from the big city. Business good. Chas. Nelson visited by the Mrs. Mrs. and Miss Dockrill by R. H. Dockrill; Mr. and Mrs. Chas Fisher by relatives; Arthur Adair by mother and sister; Mrs. Helen Matthews by her son, and many professional people renew old acquaintances. Behrens of Peck & Behrens, tailors, shows his smiling face. Billy Wilson, unduly excited, breaks both snare drums heads and is compelled to use a “gilly” drum. Sig. Arcaris’ family pay their respects to the show and he returns with them to the city in the evening. Mr. and Mrs. Gilletti ran into the city, he returning, she remaining for a short visit. Bessie Dacoma also receives a visit from her mother. The mother and sister of the Ringling Brothers, who have made their homes with the show so far this season, leave for Baraboo.
Sycamore, Ill. Wednesday, June 29. Weather warm and clear. Business big. James McCollum, cornet side show band, closed. Wilson disappears after parade, but triumphantly returns at noon with two drum heads, the result of much hard foraging. Lemonade men happy over the hot weather.
“Ma,” said one of the baby lions to Leo’s wife, as she got ready to rock the little cub to sleep this afternoon. “Ma, do you know why that young gentleman tiger next cage keeps looking at me so kind o’ hungry like all the time?”
“No dear; I do not, except it’s because he admires you.”
“’Mires me; what’s ’mores me, ma? I heard one of the ‘razorbacks’ swearing last night because the pole wagon was mired, which some one else said was stuck in the mud. Say, ma, if the young gentleman tiger ’mires me, does that make me a stick-in-the-mud? If it does I’m going to play with Keddah, the baby elephant, after this.”
“There, there, Asia, go to sleep like a good girl. You”re to many for your ma. But I’ll keep my weather eye open just the same.”
Dixon, Ill. Thursday, June 30. Hottest day of the season up to this date, but no telling what is to follow. Mlle. Turnour purchased a handsome pair of diamond ear rings of A. Simon, the famous St. Paul, Minn. jeweler and diamond merchant. The refreshment men were kept busy supplying lemonade and orange cider to the thirsty thousands. A. E. Parsons returns from Chicago. The boys had a swim in the river here.
Dubuque, Iowa. Friday, July 1. A very hot day and a three-mile haul to the lot. A big crowd out to see the parade and tremendous business afternoon and night to see the World's Greatest Show. Several members of [???] and enjoy a swim in the Mississippi river. This is the home of Beach and Bowers, of minstrel fame. Street car service here was inadequate to handle the big crowds. This is out first stand in Iowa this season.
Cedar Falls, Iowa. Saturday, July 2. Very warm day and show in on time. Parade viewed by many tillers of the soil. One old lady - when the elephants came along single file holding by their trunk the tail of the other preceding elephant - stared in open eyed amazement for a moment, when she exclaimed: "Land sakes, jess look at that, holdin' each others tails up out of the mud!" Lem Wheeler, cornet, joins Clate Alexander's side show band. Bonnie, the imitator, creates consternation in the horse tents with his imitation of a horse neighing. Lewis Caas, wife and daughter, were guests of the Ringling Bros. Business very big.
West Union, Iowa. Monday, July 4. Arrived here early Sunday morning. A fine day and many of our people take drives into the beautiful country surrounding this ideal Iowa town. John G. Scheidler sick here and stays here for a few days to recuperate. Clate Alexander and Earnest Haley go gunning and get a number of birds. The big top, menagerie, side show, horse tents and other tops all decorated in red, white and blue and the performers doe their acts attired in national colors. Albert Mann has his picture taken while seated in the cannon.
Cresco, Iowa. Tuesday, July 5. Weather hot and clear. A big dairy near lot and buttermilk of the good old Iowa variety so plentiful and, oh, so good, that many indulge too freely and are taken sick. However, there are no serious results. C. D. Brown, Press agent, closed here.
Spring Valley, Minn. Wednesday, July 6. Early arrival. The weather was clear and sultry, but we were treated to a hard rain just before 7 o'clock p. m., which considerably modified the temperature. This is a Ringling town, as everything proves. Immense business and the merry chink of gold is heard in the ticket wagon.
Fairmount, Minn. Thursday, July 7. Weather clear and hot. Rosa, Mrs. Mathews and Princess Ami have a jollification at the cars here at night and it is rumored that the cause is their birthdays.
A robber sparrow seeking what he might devour, chanced to fly into the menagerie of the World's Greatest Show and alighted upon one of the cages containing the rare tropical birds. He scanned them carefully for a few moments and remarked: "Well, you're h__l for style. And this has been your undoing. Now, I'm a plain grey scavenger, can't sing, and don't look nice, but you haven't heard of anyone locking me in a cage on account of my voice or my beauty! You are a very charming lot of prisoners. Ta, ta, birdies. I see some fine fresh oats over at the horse tents." And he flitted. But it so chanced that a predatory hawk, who had long known him for an arrogant boaster and mocker, swooped down upon and devoured Mr. Sparrow. A South American parrot, who had listened to the boastful sparrow's jeers, remarked to his mate: "Well, Alice, that little dandy told the truth about us being pinched and locked up on account of our style. But a safe jail would strike the sparrow as a pretty good place just now. We all have our troubles, dear, but it is not so bad being with the Big Show, after all. Please pass the worms, pet, and I'll sing you a song as soon as I've finished dinner."
Pipe Stone, Minn. Friday, July 8. Was in town early, town, lot and railroad all together in a "bunch." The Indians were out bright and early disposing of hatchets, pipes, war clubs, and othr Indian curiosities, which are made from the famous stone after which this little city was named. Only one show was given here, which was well patronized. L. A. Matthews, who once resided here, visits with relatives and friends. This morning the Madam's stage fell, brusing her quite seriously. Very hot weather. Juan Correa, wife and son, visit many friends with the show. A. Simon, the St. Paul diamond merchant, made his annual visit and took up quarters in the Alvena. After supper several games of horse shows kept the boys out of mischief until our trains were ready to move.
Scotland, S.D. Saturday, July 9. J. G. Scheidler returned much improved in health. There was a light rain before the parade and the entire day was cool and cloudy. Business was big. This country is settled by Russians and half of the audience are from the Czar's doman.
Webster, S.D. Monday, July 11. Arrived here Sunday afternoon and in a very short time the fishermen of the show were out getting rigs to drive out to the Indian reservation near here to fish in the small lakes which dot the broad acres of the government's charges. Big crowds in town here on Monday to see the parade and take in the wonders of the big show. Tents were filled to suffocation and among the throngs were many blanket Indians. Elsworth Smith was taken to the hospital here suffering from intermittent fever. Harry Rickley made a misstep and bent his trombone almost double.
Montevideo, Minn. Tuesday, July 12. A warm, clear day, short haul, good lot, big business. What more could a showman ask? Our little lady, Miss Bertha Carnahan, is visited by her father, mother, sisters, brother-in-law, niece and nephew. Although she is little, she was equal to the occasion, and the day was well enjoyed by all. Miss Mertir remained with the show for several days.
Hutchinson, Minn. Wednesday, July 13. Very hot day and clear. Chas. F. Ryan, W. A. Patrick and Spaeth returned from a visit to the John Robinson show. Many went fishing here today and the number of big pickerel that were borne away in triumph was astonishing. Chas. E. Nelson had his finger lacerated by accidentally getting it into the mouth of a two-pound pickerel. Asa Cummings tried his skill at selling concert tickets. Miss Bertha Carnihan and her sister, Mertie, were entertained by friends in the evening.
Owatonna, Minn. Thursday, July 14. Fine day. Our country cousins are out in force and they are fixed for an all-way through ticket, one youth in particular received more than be bargained for, as the following will explain:
A slick counter hopper in a Minnesota village, thinking to exhibit his wit at the expense of one of the trick elephants, threw into the enclosure a handful of peanuts, some of which had been soaked in croton oil. The elephant at once detected the attempted imposition, but showed no resentment. The wily youth was merely laughed at by his friends. After the performance the elephants were in their proper places in the center of the menagerie and the crowds returning from the Big Show scanned them curiously as they passed out. When the smart young man from the ribbon counter came within reaching distance of the elephant he had attempted to trick, the monster quickly seized him with his trunk, laid him gently on the ground and reaching over to a barrel of water hard by, got a good charge which he squirted over the writing villiage Lothario. Then he picked him up and deposited him among his friend, who again laughed heartily. When the crowd had all passed out and the animals were left alone the wife of the Humorous Elephant lifted up her voice and said: "Willie, I don't see how you refrained from giving that guy a good stamping. It would have served him right."
"Not so, Priscilla," replied the magnanimous elephant. "That guy wanted to give me the laugh, and I merely turned the tables on him. Suppose I had injured him. The main guys would have been sued and we might have been attached and at great cost to the min guys who maintain us in luxury. Furthermore, I have learned, after fifty years on the road, that it is not altogether what the show makes but in frequent saving of expense where the profit comes in. Are you on?"
Rochester, Minn. Friday, July 15. Weather hot and sultry. Threatening clouds all day long. Cleared at night. Paul Mathews rejoined show here. Keating and Goodwin, concert team, joined here. Of his part in the day's events Mr. Keating has the following to say: "Here I joined out and have had a pleasant time ever since because I get three meals a day." Mr. and Mrs. Coon and son Claud, entertained Mr. and Mrs. Alf. Ringling. Great big business here.
Sleepy Eye, Minn. Saturday, July 16. This town received the rather old name from an old Indian chief of that name, who used to plant his tepee where this little city now stands. Where he procured the odd cognomen is rather obscure, but we presume that it was given him in the ordinary way all Indians receive their names. It seems to have been the custom among the Indians, when a child was born, to send for the medicine man of the tribe, who went through certain evolutions, after which the first thing that came into his mind was given the child as a name. The medicine man who named this particular chief must have been out all night with the boys, or he may have secured a plentiful supply of Parsons orange cider, as evidently he fell asleep while in the midst of his weird incanations and consequently he thought Sleepy Eye the proper handle for the chief of a wide-awake tribe of scalpers. The show found the city fully alive to the fact that it was the "World's Greatest."
Brookings, S.D. Monday,July 18. Weather hot and clear. Business big. Estella Lovenburg made her debut here as Cuba and Mrs. Carroll as the Goddess of Liberty in the grand patriotic spectacle, "Under the Stars and Stripes." The imposing sight is received at each performance of the World's Greatest Shows with tremendous applause.
Tracy, Minn. Tuesday, July 19. The show reached here before daylight and everything was up bright and early. Long before sunrise teams and vehicles of all kinds were wending their way from all directions to a common center - the circus. Business here was immense. Mr. and Mrs. Gilleta, who have furnished much fun and amusement to our side show patrons, with their trained monkeys, closed here and go to their home in Chicago. A very heavy wind storm in the early morning rocked the cars, and many frightened "troupers" was the result. Our canvas fortunately still lay on the ground, so no damage was done in that quarter.
Le Sueur, Minn. Wednesday, July 20. The lot here is situated high on a hill, the main portion of the town lying below. A bad hill to come down in parade and many of the parade wagons had to use "shoes." Large crowd is in town. Ellsworth Smith returns from his recent illness. Glad to see you back, Ellsworth. Weather cooler and more pleasant. Business big.
Windom, Minn. Thursday, July 21. So named because the wind blows through here 365 days every year. The weather was very hot - the kind of "hot" that compels you to notice it. Many were overcome by the heat and had to be carried out from the almost burning canvas. Big crowd at afternoon performance. Patrick was compelled to get a rub down in the gynmasium, so exhausted was he from county money.
Luverne, Minn. Friday, July 22. Still very hot. Lot out in the edge of town. A fine field of wheat next to the lot received many curious as well as admiring glances from the "profesh." The boys indulge in a game of "Duck" in the evening, furnishing amusement to quite a number of on-lookers. Business here is always good. Midnight the pony colt was born here, at the time designated by his name.
Esterville, Iowa. Saturday, July 23. A small Iowa town, surrounded by enormous clouds of dust, and lot a long ways out. Regular Iowa business. The mounted band came in from parade looking like they had been through a hard battle. "Dust, dust everywhere, On the gound and in the air;" and it was kept in the air.
Forest City, Iowa. Monday, July 25. This city is so named because there is no tree within 100 miles of the place. Weather hot, hotter, hottest. Business good. Joseph La Fleur again is in our midst and the high somersault is once more a feature on the program.
Algona, Iowa. Tuesday,July 26. This place always has been a Ringling town, so there is no necessity to dilate on the business or crowds. The lot is situated in a fine grove near a fine stream of running water, and many take advantage of this fact to do washing, bathing, etc. Quite a lot of poison ivy around here and all await developments. Rain after the night show.
Eagle Grove, Iowa. Wednsday, July 27. A railroad town. Quite a long haul to the fair grounds, where the lot is situated. The parade passed through both old and new town. The heavy rains of the previous night laid the dust, but a hot sun, and a damp earth combined to make the heat almost insufferable. Business up to date.
Jefferson, Iowa. Thursday, July 28. Arrived here early. Fine lot in the edge of town. Good haul, but level streets. Considerable difficulty during parade with low electric wires. Business immense. Yankee Robinson, an early pioneer in show business, is buried here, but as the cemetery was a considerable distance from the show grounds we did not honor his last resting place in a body, but during the day groups of twos and threes could be seen wending their way, as time would permit, to the grave of this famous old showman. It was only fifteen years ago he was an active partner in Ringling Bros. & Yankee Robinson's Great Double Shows. A fine monument marks his tomb, erected by Ringling Bros. and Sells Bros.
Nevada, Iowa. Friday, July 29. We are met here by a heavy rain storm which lasted all morning. Everybody got wet during parade. The afternoon, however, turned out nice and clear and business was up to our western standard. Quite a number of the Marshalltown fraternity are visitors, among whom we note Mr. Spears, F. Felson and Mr. Downs. Of course we won't mention the "shrine" that gladdened our eyes in this "dry" town. W. T. Spaeth closes here.
Hampton, Iowa. Saturday, July 30. The first time the Ringling Bros. shows have exhibited here since 1886. Business exceptionally good. The next run being very long many chicken sandwiches and dainty morsels are laid by to be enjoyed on the morrow. Major Rheinbeck made arrangements with a good housewife to prepare a whole chicken for his especial benefit - Clate Alexander is something of a chicken eater himself, so with zealous eye he watched the preparations being made to tempt the Major's appetite, and at the proper moment stepped up saying, "I would like to get the chicken you have cooked for the little man," and soon he was in possession of the feast. The consternation and dismay of the Major can well be imagined when he found someone had forestalled him and he is no wiser even to this day.
Peoria, Ill. Monday, August 1. Arrived here late Sunday night. Lot is situated in the old ball park at the end of the principal thoroughfare and is a long haul from the cars. The menagerie top and horse tents are raised in the dark and the animals are given much needed rest. Show day dawned bright and beautiful. Business very large. Mr. and Mrs. Fred. Barth and the Jennison family visit their many friends with the show. Fred. Cohen, late candy butcher with us, also visits. Phil. King gets too familiar with poison ivy and is all "swelled up" over it. The "Senators" present him to the Dacoma Tribe of Indians. The Bonheur Sisters mourn the loss of their pug dog. The street car service here is excellent; also the products of the large Peoria distilleries.
Bloomington, Ill. Tuesday, Aug. 2. Arrived here early. Long haul to the lot in fair grounds. Opposition here with a Wild West Show, but does not affect our enormous business. The "Chink" joins here with his bicycle suit. John Slater was comissioned to act as interpreter and manager of our Chinese troupe. This is the home of the Fisher family, who entertained the "Indians" at supper in the home place. Mrs. Chas. Fisher also remembers the "Ladies' Club" in a substantial manner. Ice cream and angel's food in abundance. Rains very very hard in the afternoon and much straw and baled hay is used in making roads. Very muddy at night.
Lafayette, Ind. Tuesday, Aug. 3. The depth of mud on the preceding lot caused our late arrival here. Long haul to lot, which is situated on the top of the hill. Several heavy wagons break through into the sewers and much difficulty is experienced in getting to the lot. The parade was late. The afternoon show one hour late. Business good, and weather fair. Mrs. Fred. Madison joins her husband here for a three days' visit.
Lebanon, Ind. Thursday, Aug. 4. The show is on time again and a fine day is our portion. Good business. George Keeley of white elephant fame, feeling in a poetic mood, "sate" himself under a shady stretch of side wall . . .
Shelbyville, Ind. Friday, Aug. 5. A fine day greeted us here and Ringling day was celebrated by great crowds of sight-seers, who filled the town to overflowing. Big business and everyone loud in their praises of the "Big Show." Herr Drayton joins here; also several hundred pounds of cannon balls. Mrs. Chas. Ringling, son and daughter, brighten the private car Caledonia with their presence. Bonney, a side show celebrity, fails to make connections with the show train and is left behind.
Martinsville, Ind. Saturday, Aug. 6. We arrive here in good time. Medium haul to the lot, which was very dusty. Weather excellent and fair business. Robt. Taylor had a railroad puzzle to solve here, but he was master of the situation. Chas. F. Ryan, our superintendent of Pinkerton detectives, shelved a few more of the light fingered gentry. They occasionally put their heads in the lion's mouth with the inevitable result - rock pile - sometimes worse. Jo La Fleur puts his new act on here for the first time. Jas. Wilson received word from Bonney: "All safe. Send ticket." The hungry horse racket evidently didn't work.
Indianapolis, Ind. Monday, Aug. 8. Arrived here bright and early Sunday a. m. Trains were unloaded two blocks from the lot, then transferred two miles. Great interest is exhibited here and the grounds are thronged all day Sunday by an excited crowd, who eagerly watched every movement made in erecting our immense spread of canvas, cleaning the horses' backs, brightening harness, etc. Sunday was an ideal summer scorcher, clear and hot, and it was with surprise we discover rain the next day, but we did, and it stayed with us all day, too. The parade was made in a driving rain and two performances were given on a very sloppy lot. Taking everything into consideration, the business was a seven-day wonder. The World's Greatest has many friends in this man's town. Bonney finally catches the show here. Mrs. John Robinson and children, of the Robinson show, visit. Mr. and Mrs. Fred. Fisher and Miss Mollie Rawson spend Sunday in Cincinnati with relatives and friends. Mrs. Art Dacoma received a pleasant visit from her father, sister and other relatives; also Mrs. Chas. Carroll entertined her father and brother. Many of the member of the show visited the different parks and places of anusements, while others quaffed great quantities of the delightful Indianapolis beer. "Hurry a little" Meagher joins here.
Portland, Ind. Tuesday, Aug. 9. Arrive late. This little city is the home of Asa Cummings, Roll Reed and Clate Alexander, so they were kept mighty busy visiting between tunes. Clate was presented with a fine bouquet of roses by the teacher and Sunday school scholars, of which he is a member when home. Mr. and Mrs. Tardo, who joined the side show in Bloomington, close here. The lot here was very soft and hook ropes and 16 horse teams were used in placing the heavy wagons. Business fair. Weather clear and very hot. Mr. Peck, of Peck & Behrens, Chicago, tailors, gave the boys a treat. Billy Wilson and Roll Reed close here.
Decatur, Ind. Wednesday, Aug. 10. Arrive early. Lot near town. Another hot day added to the already long list. Business first class. Clate Alexander was compelled to hustle drummer here, and a right good hustler he is too, as the drums were there. Several of the boys attempted to break a "nickel in the slot" machine here and went to bed "broke" themselves. They were "natural born gamblers."
Sturgis, Mich. Thursday, Aug. 11. Our first stand in Michigan, and if this is any criterion to follow this state will be a record breaker. A fine clear day, comfortably warm, nice lot and packed business. What more can a showman ask for. O. A. Menges is visited by his brother. Ed. Bickle joins side show band, also Walter Menges. Archie Bonner was in great demand by cousins. We enjoyed a slight rain in the afternoon, which lasted about two hours and refreshed everybody and everything.
Hillsdale, Mich. Friday, Aug. 12. Arrived early a. m. Fine lot next to an apple orchard. Cholera morbus invited by many. An odd character, an old soldier, covered with all kinds of medals, directed the movements of the different bands until the mounted band came in sight, when he gave up in disgust. Bert Gray visits. A beautiful and and all-right town.
Jackson, Mich. Saturday, Aug. 13. Day dawned clear and bright. Fine lot in the driving park which adjoins the state prison. Business here was big. Bob Emmons, an old animal trainer, visits. Carl Towns also entertains his sister, whom he has not seen for ten years. After the night performance Art Dacoma and a party of friends left for Grand Rapids, in which city he resides. They arrived there 6 a. m. Sunday and spent the day looking over the practicing buildings and gorging themselves with the good things of life. All report a good time.
An event of unusual interest transpired in the Michigan State Penitentiary here today. The proprietors of the "World's Greatest" suggested to the warden of the institution that a performance be given to the prisoners after the regular afternoon show. The warden, Mr. William Chamberlain, gladly availed himself of the opportunity to give his charges, whose enjoyments at best are but few, this special treat.
The necessary arrangement having been made, the members of the show accompanied by Mr. George Ganweiler's band, proceed, at the conclusion of the afternoon show, to the prison. After passing through numerous corridors and passageways, they were ushered into the open court, or prison common. It was a grotesque procession - the musicians with their instruments, the clowns, bedecked in grease paints and attired in their mirth-provoking costumes, Japs in their national garb and comedy delineators in thier regular make-up; a motley assemblage of "troopers" indeed, and one that recalled the days of wandering troubadours who strolled from place to place giving exhibitions. On reaching the courtyard a sight never to be forgotten greeted their eyes. The prisoners were massed on the green sward, in one long line, and with wondering expectancy depicted on their countenances, anxiously awaited the arrival of the "show folks."
Previous to the arrival of the circus people the warden told "his boys" of Ringling Bros.' munificent offer, and informed them that they would be allowed full liberty in giving voice to their appreciation in whatever manner they saw fit.
In the midst of a babel of sounds, occasioned by a conversation long restricted, the clanging of a great iron door and the ringling of bells caused a hush to fall upon the assemblage as the "troopers" walked in. All was quiet for a moment and then, out on the afternoon air burst a glad shout of welcome which echoed and re-echoed down through the long corridors of the prison, disconcerting for the moment even the actors themselves, so used to loud outbursts of approval and causing those outside of the walls for blocks around to think that pandemonium itself had broken loose. At a signal from Warden Chamberlain the prison band, numbering fifteen members (eight of which are serving life sentences) rendered "Hail to the Chief." The massive doors at the lower end of the court yard opened and admitted Prof. Harry Lockhart with his herd of elephants, the master of properties, his corps of assistants and great wagon load of "props." Mr. Ganweiler's band, having proceeded to the station assigned them, offered one of their pleasing overtures and the hearty applause which greeted the rendition gave evidence that the audience appreciated good music. Following the overture, the performance began in good earnest by the introduction fo the Dacoma family, whose marvelous acrobatic act brought forth round after round of applause. Cute little All-right, the Japanese wonder then made his appearance and proved his ability to please in his feats of hand balancing. Following the diminutive Japs performance came Charles and Nettie Carroll in their musical act which, interspersed with funny saying and witty dialogue. Then followed Ando in jugglery and Japanese pastimes. Following this number came an exhibition of cannon ball juggling by Herr Drayton, the "strong man." And then cam Bickel and Watson ("the German and the Tramp") whose clever work fairly convulsed the onlookers with laughter. Watson's well, his "Weary Willie" make-up and "hobo" vernacular must have recalled to not a few of his audience the days when they carved their names on water tanks and depot platforms and after an all night's ride on the "bumpers," craved a "hand-out" at some good housewife's kitchen door. James West, the "Veteran," and Art Adair then stacked out on the green and exemplified the work of the up-to-date "Joey." An exhibition of close bending by Paul Brachard, the "human snake," followed and the prisoners noted his twisting and turning with evident wonder. While this "turn" was in progress preparations were made by the property men for the elephant act, and things being ready the great pachyderms ambled up to the front and went through their evolutions. With eyes filled with a look of awed admiration, the prisoners watched every movement of Prof. Lockhart's pets and cried out with glee at each new surprise. Who ever heard of a troop of elephants perform in a prison? There were men in that audience who had been in that prison for eighteen long years and never before, during that period, had they seen such a sight as was now presented to their bewildered gaze. It doubtless recalled the days of their boyhood when they "carried water for the elephants" or "stole in under the canvas." Visions of peanuts and popcorn and "red lemonade" came to their mind's eye as fond reminiscence took them back to the days long gone by. One to look at those wild eyes and strained staring faces could read the life stories of those poor fellows who had found to their sorrow that the "ways of the transgressor" were hard. One could picture to himself the days of dark, dreary dispair - days of longing and yearning and sad regret when they thought of the past and sighed at what the future held in store and of what might have been. One could bring up the nights of restless slumber with the dreams of their childhood as they nervously tossed on their rough narrow bunks; of the visions of clover fields and apple blossoms, how in fancy they again chased the butterfuly or were busy in making mud-pies; of the dreams of the mother, the boy's best friend, who was ever and always planning some new pleasure. One could imagine the cruel awakening on the morrow to find that the chairs and the cold, cheerless bars were still there.
But now they were free! Under the broad canopy of heaven they drank in the sweet strains of music and lived in the past. No thoughts of the cell or the work-bench or the plain prison fare arose to disturb their sweet reverie. They feasted on "warm buscuits and honey" and the "goodies" such as only mother knew how to make; they roamed o'er the fields and visited the haunts, so dear to their childhood, untrammeled by thoughts of the morrow. They could "smell the sawdust" and hear the crack of the ring master's whip as of yore.
Here and there in that body of 854 men, however, were faces that expressed no pleasure. Cold, stolid, indifferent countenances that caused the conjecture that their owners had long since parted with any hopes of future pleasure. "In for life," perchance, they had brooded and raised up an insurmountable barrier to prevent any ray of light from shining in on their souls. Knowing the present pleasure must, at the best, be but fleeting, they steeled their hearts against the admission of this one solace and preferred to harbor the melancholy broodings of yesterday and of tomorrow.
The elephant act concluded this most remarkable performance.
The entertainment throughout was greeted with the most tumultous applause ever accorded a performer. The prisoners threw their caps in the air and jumped and shouted like a lot of school boys out for a romp. The repeated efforts of the warden and keepers to quell the noise and stop the confusion proved unavailing and it was found necessary to ring the prison bell ordering them to "fall in." The clang of the bell did what the warden and his staff had failed to accomplish. The men ceased their antics and faced "company front" while Ganweiler's band rendered as a farewell "America," with the accompaniment of the prisoners, troopers and keepers, who sang the grand old hymn as it was never sang before. At its conclusion the band leading and playing "Auld Lang Syne." The air was taken up by the convicts and sang with feeling almost undescribable. As they filed by the expression depicted on the long line of faces showed joy, excitement, pleasure and pain. Here and there a tear stained face betokened the mission of the players had not been in vain. On entering the corridors the men marched silently and took their places in front of their respective cells. The great gong sent out a deep detonation, the cell doors opened and each prisoner entered there to resume the dready monotonous life of a convict.
Battle Creek, Mich. Monday, August 15. Arrive Sunday a. m. Lot hard and dry and the stake drivers had hard work penetrating the ground. R. H. Dockrell [sic?] spends Sunday and Monday with his wife and daughter. The bay and parks received their share of attention all day Sunday. Severe storm passes over the city while the big top is being raised. Cloudy and threatening until 8 a. m. after which the day was exceptionally fine. Rain after the night shows. Lee Coleman visited by his wife. Syndicate Whitey discontinued. A. J. Ross enjoys a pleasant visit with his mother and cousins. Scheidler is taken seriously ill and stops off here for a few days rest.
Hastings, Mich. Tuesday, Aug. 16. Everything moves like clockwork with us here in this state. We arrive early, parades and performances are on time and crowded tents greet us everywhere. The weather is clear and pleasant. Many fine bathing places are utilized, and nothing disturbs the tranquility of our everyday existence. Ed Bickel, side show drummer, receives sad news from home of a father's illness and closes. Geo. Zammert and Tom Sprague, cook house, have photos taken for their winter sketch.
Lansing, Mich. Wednesday, Aug. 17. Hard rain here about 6 a. m. but cleared up shortly and the balance of the day was perfect. The parade was a trifle late owing to bad railroad facilities. This being the former home of A. J. Ross, the day was pleasantly spent by him in visiting old friends. The afternoon house contained several hundred members of the reform school who were very appreciative boys and thoroughly enjoyed this great treat. Business was immense.
Greenville, Mich. Thursday, Aug. 18. This beautiful little city lying in the heart of a fine agricultural district does herself proud in the matter of numbers, as the "World's Greatest" was treated here to the limit of its capacity. A fine day contributed its share to make the day enjoyable and Ringling Day was a flattering success. Dan Keating says he never will forget this town as he found himself a dollar and seventy-five cents short on his reserve seat sale; to get even he quit lunching in the privilege car after the night shows.
Alma, Mich. Friday, Aug. 19. Nice day byt very dusty. Usual business. M. B. Silver, magician, joins. "Spider" puts on his big town shirt and sleeves. Mr. Alf. T. Ringling in making his after dinner rounds spies a new canvas man on watch.
Alf. T. R. - "Say mister will you put me in if I give you a quarter.
New Canvas - (who is on). Well, bein' its you, I reckon I kin put you in for two bits and give you a reserve seat in the bargain.
(Hasty exit.)
Cadillac, Mich. Saturday, Aug. 20. Was compelled to change the lot here to the old fair grounds on account of the size, beauty, and quantity of stumps on the one contracted. The lot used was across the bay from the cars and town and many enjoyed rides to and from in the steam yachts, which wre liberally patronized at each performance. A brother of Louis E. Cooke, of circus fame, lives here and paid the Ringling Bros. a pleasant visit. This place presented the finest opportunities of the season for bathing purposes and many "troupers" took advantage of it. The fisherman were also out in force. Did not learn the results.
Bay City, Mich. Monday, Aug. 22. Arrive Sunday a. m. Quite a nice lot and the haul is short. A goodly number of the people went over to Saginaw to spend the day visiting relatives and friends. Others went out to the bay here and listened to the music of the waves, etc. A. J. Ross found plenty to occupy his attention as this is his home. Rev. Simpson W. Horner, pastor of the M. E. Church here, paid his respects to the Ringling Bros., who are acquaintances and friends of many years duration. The Cornell Concert Co. pays the "World's Greatest" a visit in the afternoon. Scheidler, the magician, was compelled to close on account of severe sickness. Mr. Punch and Mrs. Judy join. When the clown band was on, during the night performance, Messrs. Bickel and Watson, who are Saginaw favorites, were almost stricken with stage fright when they received two large boquets, the size of bushel baskets, from their Saginaw admirers. The boquets were marvels in construction, being composed of every known vegetable, and arranged in harmonous colors. They will come in handy this winter. Peck & Behrens, our Chicago tailors, were kept busy as bees here measuring "troopers." 'Tis the same old story, "A showman's love for dress."
Port Huron, Mich. Tuesday, Aug. 23. Arrive here early. Lot a long way out. Very warm all day. Terrible rain and wind storm at 9 p. m. Business large. C. L. Haas and W. A. Menges take a trip across the river to Sarnia, Can., where they purchase a supply of "no tax" tobacco.
Lapeer, Mich. Wednesday, Aug. 24. Arrive in good time. A fine, clear, day and a nice lot. Business "out of sight." C. A. Bonney was visited by many relatives and friends. Chas. Ringling, Al. Ringling and Ernest Haley take an early start and seek to lure the finny tribe on the point of a hook, they certainly succeeded as the entire show feasted on fried fish the next day. The catch amounted to over 350 fish. Dick Travers, who was chef of the diner last season, joins here to act in the same capacity in the cook tent.
Caro, Mich. Thursday, Aug. 25. We have a gloomy day here, also windy, but did not prevent us from doing our usual business. A gentleman drove a five legged horse on the lot and attracted considerable attention form the "show folks." If Wm. Vogt was only with us now, to hear the soul stirring music of the "Hooche Chooche," as present by Sheik Ali Ben Dio's troupe of Arab dancers.
Owosso, Mich. Friday, Aug. 26. A beautiful day, a sandy lot, a medium drill and a big day's business. Mrs. Chas. Fisher is compelled to leave the show here, owing to serious illness. She will go to a Chicago hospital and be in the care of one of the finest surgeons in the city, as an operation is a necessity. It is feared, by her many friends, that she will not be able to resume work this season. Mr. Otto Ringling leaves for an extended visit to various shows and places.
Ann Arbor, Mich. Saturday, Aug. 27. Lot here is out past the college campus and is a very long haul. Bad street car service also, so many of our vast audiences are compelled to walk. The principal streets of the town are all torn up by the street pavers and the parade could not pass through the business portion. James Watson, expansionist, leaves after the show for a flying visit to his wife who is with a wild west show near here. Al. Millette opened a new box of old jokes by springing a "bad" pair of whiskers and made an awful frost. (Ding) Ernest Haley runs into Toledo on busines.
Toledo, Ohio. Monday, Aug. 29. Our weather continues fine but is gradually getting warmer. The lot was a long way from the sleepers. Many who left them before they were transferred spent the balance of the day in trying to find their location. Consequently many Sunday dinners were not enjoyed. Miss Dockrill, Miss Turnour, and Joe Le Fleur can tell how hard sleepers are to find sometimes. The "profesh" party who attended the matinee, at the Casino, arrived after the dinner hour, but Mr. Al. Ringling noting the hungry look and half famished condition ordered the rule suspended and the time extended. The sleepers stood on the bank of the river and boat rides and fishing was the order of the day to those who stayed on the cars till placed. Our musician, possessed with the patience of a Job, fished from 1 until 9 p. m. without even receiving a bite. Frank Horn, drummer boy, joins. Orrin Hollis, bareback rider well known to the profesh, visits his many friends. He claims he has quit the business, but we shall see. The new cook house chef shows us what he can do and is an instantaneous favorite. Business here was immense and we simply add another laurel to our wreath. This city was quite large for some of the boys; the small town sports couldn't trot the big city gait and succembed to the inevitable. Wm. Forquer visits friends here, gets interested, time passes, and Wm., horse and all were left behind.
Defiance, Ohio. Tuesday, Aug. 30. This place will never be forgotten by the superstitious element as our canvas was erected in an old grave yard from which the majority of the bodies had been removed. Of course it was an uncanny lot and our imaginations assisted in making it more so. As a fitting finale to the day, the "ghost" walked. Bird, one of the best and most intelligent of our trained dogs, was caught and killed while trying to pass under a moving train. He was buried on the banks of the Little Maumee river, and the grave was decorated with flowers and shells. There being no Y. M. C. A. here, Ben Southcott took a bath in the river.
J. N. Bronson, who at one time was a member of the "World's Greatest" band, visits. Business here was fair only. Wm. Forquer catches the show again.
Wabash, Ind. Wednesday, Aug. 31. Arrived here bright and early, nice lot, fine day. "On the banks of the Wabash" constitutes the entire reportoire of the side show band for the day, so the big show band magnanimously refuses to trespass, as the Indiana boys get their last "crack" at it tonight. Good-bye Wabash, etc. I hope I may never hear you again. Carl Mayo fell out of his bunk, upper 7, while dreaming he was pursuing a band of Posey county Reubens, and broke the drum in his ear, so he thought. After undergoing amedical examination the Dr. found one of Slater's shoes, fastened in there, which he removed and the drum was found intact. A number of excursionists came over from Peru, Ind., among whom was Mrs. Ben Wallace and sister, who was the guests of Ringling Bros. for the day. Mr. Parcell, an old boss canvasman visits Happy Jack. Little Bertha Carnahan severely sprains her ankle and is compelled to take life easy for a few days. Business fair.
Danville, Ill. Thursday, Sept. 1. Arrive late. Very hot day. Long haul to lot. Parade is late. Business was good. Chas. Miller visits friends, also Guy Repasz and W. H. Van Cleve. Grant Nichols, once a circus musician, visits his friends in the band. He was here for several seasons, '94 being the last. Emma Warren Co. attended our afternoon performance. The mayor of Danville, knowing the average "troupers" appreciation of nice, cold lager on a very hot, dusty day considerately allowed the saloons to remain open until midnight. He is all right. The winter quarters of the La Pearl show are in this city.
Marshall, Ill. Friday, Sept. 2. The dustiest town of the season. Lot in the fair ground, which is handy to the "main store street." Business was large, and every one loud in their praises of the "Big Show." Howard Leslie visits.
Vincennes, Ind. Saturday, Sept. 3. Arrived here early. Lot a long ways from town but close to the railroad. Parade out on time and viewed by people crowding the streets through the entire line of march. Business was like the weather - fine. The Indiana boys take their fare-well look at Indiana soil for a while and reverently whistle "Banks of Wabash." Sid, cookhouse, hires two boys who stay just long enough to enjoy a hearty breakfast and then vanish. The laugh is on Sid. John Mercer left for Cincinnati to receive treatment for the asthma from which he suffered severly. Jack Moran, taking advantage of the cheap G. A. R. excursion rates, spent the Sabbath with friends in Cincinnati. W. H. Van Cleve visits with friends of "Ye olden days." Punch Wheeler, theatrical passenger agent of the Lake Shore, S. H. Semon and E. W. Woods visit the show here.
Carmi, Ill. Monday, Sept. 5. Arrive here Sunday a. m. Good river here and the boys line its banks. The lot was the dustiest we have seen in many days, fine white dirt and not a spear of grass to break the monotony. Nice apple orchard across the road and the farmer don't care, so many green apples disappeared. Monday afternoon we are made happy by slight showers which lay the terrible dust. Bertha Carnahan again on duty, but she limps slightly yet. Many strangers are in town to attend the fair which opens here on the morrow. Chas. F. Ryan has his troubles with confidence men, and game workers of every description who are "fixed" for fair dates.
Harrisburg, Ill. Tuesday, Sept. 6. Morning dawned clear and pleasant. Good lot and afternoon house packed. Heavy wind and rain storm at 4 p. m. No races on account of storm. No one hurt and beyond a few rents in dressing room and horse tents, no damage was done. Cleared up and lovely night. During the storm the cook tent force had their hands full, the "chef" held the center pole to keep the kitchen up, while Harry Metz watched the pumpkin pies to the "flunkeys" from "being blown" into them, and Art Redman was gathering in the wayward tin pans and other utensils from all over the lot. "Verily what great trouble a little wind bloweth."
Cairo, Ill. Wednesday, Sept. 7. Fine day is Cairo. Lot was in a low part of the town but was pretty dry, and occasioned no trouble in getting on with out heavy wagons. the "World's Greatest" did a big business here. A. F. Hurgen, musician, leaves on receipt of telegram which states the severe sickness of an uncle. Nothing is so popular here as Dixie and Negro melodies. Some of the ladies of the show, wishing to get some washing done, selected, from a large assortment of colored women one bearing the rather common name of Hannah Johnson. Hannah made the usual promises of doing the work clean, etc., and disappeared with the large bundle of clothes. She was not long out of sight when the painful truth dawned upon those who owned the bundle, that not one of them had any idea who Hannah Johnson was nor where she lived. During parade who should come dancing along the middle of the street but Hannah Johnson, minus the bundle of clothes, but feeling very lively over frequent applications of lager. One "interested" lady leaned over to the wing dancer and said, "Hannah where is that washing." "Oh, that will be done soon Misses," answered Hannah. "But where do you live, what is your number, Hannah." "Law sakes, Misses, doesn't you know us niggers doesn't have no numbers," and away she went. After parade, the negro dwellings were searched up one street and down another, and a number of Hannah Johnsons were found, but no washing and no "original" Hannah Johnson. Finally Chas. Ryan was called to rescue this fateful wash. The police force were powerless to render assistance. The different ladies resignedly folded their hands and succumbed to their evident fate. About 11 o'clock that night while on the way to the sleepers Mr. Chas. Ringling and Chas. Ryan espied a big negro wench crossing the street two blocks distant with what appeared to be a bundle. With a yell like a Camanche Indian Ryan called,"Hannah, Oh Hannah," and the reply "Heah I is. What you all want back dar." When they came up, there was Hannah and the wash. The laundry soon found its owners and Hannah with a "I told you I would get the washin' done" wended her way up the levee.
Mayfield, Ky. Thursday, Sept. 8. Nice town and big business. Lot out past the cemetery. An eccentric individual has utilized the sculptors skill in decorating his plat in the grave yard. There were statues of himself, on foot and horseback, of this wife and children and of his fox hounds. This created almost as much curiosity among the show people as the show did among the country folks. Kerry Meagher is confined to his bunk here with the old time "shakes." Great credit is due Chief McNutt and his able assistants for the exceptionally good order maintained throughout the day.
Princeton, Ky. Friday, Sept. 9. Arrive 6 a. m. Nice lot and a short haul. Business only fair. Clare Alexander, Ernest Haley and Prof. Lockhart, accompaanied by the Gordon setter, go "gunning" for birds. The show did not dine on quail next day but Lockhart and Haley did.
Hopkinsville, Ky. Saturday, Sept. 10. Weather warm and clear. Business good. Miss Lizzie Rooney loses an almost completed doily. We presume some colored woman is now enjoying the discomfiture of envious neighbors with her new head cloth. Good-bye Kentucky. We have enjoyed your weather, your patronage, and your whiskey. Ta. Ta.
Metropolis, Ill. Monday, Sept. 12. A long run to this town and did not arrive here until 2 p. m. Sunday. We lost considerable time at Paducah, Ky., as we ferried the Ohio river at that point and the transfer boat held only ten cars. The sporty negroes ran a crap game in the woods near the lot all day Sunday and Monday. "Come up seven. I've got to have show meney." Lot near the railroad but outside of city limits. The A. E. O. E. meet here in the I. O. O. F. hall. Find a charter here dating 1857. The side show band organized into a fire company here and rendered valuable assistance in saving property duing the night show. Mr. Jesse Leon received a drenching from the railroad water tank. Mrs. Art Adair while walking to the cars at night fell into an old well, but was rescued without serious mishap. Otto Ringling is with us again. The Terrell Bros. of Paducah, Ky., visit the "World's Greatest" here. Wm. Koch and Theo. Bready visit our old Reading, Pa., friend here.
Sparta, Ill. Tuesday, Sept. 13. A bad run was given us today and we are very late. The parade returns to the lot at 2 p. m. Nice day this and good business. Princess Ani is sick and the Arabian Princess fills the vacancy. Business immense in spite of our tardiness. Sid, cook-house, loses his mascot.
Edwardsville, Ill. Wednesday, Sept. 14. Arrived here 9 a. m. too much red tape in the East St. Louis yards. A drizzle here until 11 a. m., after which we enjoyed a beautiful day. Nice grassy lot. Mrs. E. C. Haley leaves for her home in Chicago, while Mr. E. C. Haley, W. H. Van Cleve and Clark Davis made a flying trip to St. Louis. A. E. Goodrich, cornet, joins. Big fire at night here. Business fair. Mrs. Anna Cooke was taken very ill here.
Louisiana, Mo. Thursday, Sept. 15. More red tape in E. St. Louis yards, consequently late here also. The lot was near the railroad and knee deep in mud. Very bad. Much straw was used and every effort was made to remedy the muddy condition but to no avail. However a show hungry populace waded good humoredly through the mud and thoroughly enjoyed the good things presented. W. H. Van Cleve received a pleasant vfisit from his sister and little nieces. Ringling Bros. were visited by several cousins. E. C. Haley made a hit by rolling a barrel of pigs feet down the middle of the street from the depot to the storage car, and the route lay through the main thoroughfare. W. B. Hanmore, a former press agent, visits the show here. Our "Chink," received a fine box of eatables from his parents and the dressing room had a "gorge"-us time.
Shelbina, Mo. Friday, Sept. 16. Rains hard here until 10:30 a. m. Parade a trifle late in consequence. Business big. Art Dacoma composes a poem entitled "Mo-co-on the Go-go," very pretty. John Slater exhibits his photos descriptive of his new balckface act and he makes an instantaneous hit. Al. Ringling had a narrow escape being run over by a runaway team during parade here. Queen, a very valuable principal horse, the property of Ringling Bros., died here on the way to the train at night. Queen has been used by Miss Nellie Ryalnd, who misses her favorite very much.
Brookfield, Mo. Saturday, Sept. 17. A perfect show day. Lot nice and level, in the southern part of town, and business big. This is also the last day of the county fair and country nusicians are seen in uniform by the score. Also Estella Lovenberg's birthday and she is kindly remembered with a fine silver water set and other nice mementoes. Princes Ani resumes work after several days sickness.
Unionville, Mo. Monday, Sept. 19. Arrived early Sunday morning. Lot but a short distance. Earnest Haley and Clate Alexander spend the day hunting. Miss Lizzie Rooney and Mrs. Dave Costello are on the sick list. Monday opened clear and sultry, and parade time saw crowded thoroughfares. Never had Unionville seen such masses of people Business was immense. Paul Matthews closed here.
Bloomfield, Mo. Tuesday, Sept. 20. Arrive 6 a. m. The majority of the performers and musicians walk in from the junction. Long drill. Lot only a few blocks from the business square. Fine business. W. H. Van Cleve enters upon his new duties as press agent. The ticket wagons have added another botherer to the already long list in consequence. O Sama, the Jap lady, is unable to appear through sickness.
Farmington, Iowa. Wednesday, Sept. 21. This town is reached in good season and soon the tents are erected on what seems to be a good, solid lot. The parade is made through crowded streets and the afternoon house is "packed." Commences to rain during the afternoon and continues through the entire night. The wagons get mired deeper and deeper until it is impossible to move them without from twenty to thirty head of horses and the hook rope. The men, elephants and horses work all night and the last wagon reaches the train at 7 a. m. We leave with plenty of Farmington "dust" in our poskets and Farmington mud on our wheels, horses, and everything else.
Mt. Pleasant, Iowa. Thursday, Sept. 22. We arrive here at 12 m. and find the lot two miles distant in the fairground, and plenty of mud between. At 3 o'clock the idea of a parade is given up, and the big band wends its way along the slippery sidewalks to the principal "store street," where they circle and play while the orators tell the people about it. When we reach the lot we find nothing but the side show up to receive the crowds which does a tremendous business. The weather was threatening and the roads were getting worse every minute so no attempt was made to give the circus performance. Again the work of loading was delayed by the richness and density of the mud. The ladies organize a cotillion and have a dance near the train. Art Adair furnished the music. Walter Menges closed here.
Chariton, Ia. Friday, Sept. 23. We arrive late owing to the delay in loading of the previous stand. A nice lot and when the parade went out scarcely a vestige of the recent mud was seen. The roads had suddenly become hard as adamant. Business here was bery big. Major Rheinbeck visits old friends. Dr. Haas, who is now veterinary surgeion with the show, helps Clate out on alto. John G. Robinson and Ed. Kennedy visit the "World's Greatest" and are compelled to stay several days to see it all. It certainly is a "big thing."
Bethany, Mo. Saturday, Sept. 24. This place is very hilly, but the lot was handy to the railroad so the hills were forgotten. The lot was on a hillside and was full of ditches, if you don't remember the ditches ask Little Bertha Carnahan, for her stage was swung over a yawning abyss. Business here was also immense. Surely everything is coming our way. Chas. Fisher receives the sad news of his father's death and leaves for home to attend the last sorrowing rites. John Carroll in saving Frank Oakley - Slivers - from a dangerous fall in traps get hit in the mouth with Slivers head, and a badly damaged lip is the result, but Slivers was saved just the same.
Leon, Iowa. Monday, Sept. 26. Arrive early Sunday a. m. Leon is out in force to see us unload our long trains and follow the wagons up and down hill, where they feast their curious eyes all day long. The menagerie and side show tops were full of horses all day, while the horse tents received a much needed overhauling. The cages were corralled and the animals given a sun bath. A cow, of the male persuasion, in an adjoining field furnished the boys with plenty of excitement and many a trooper made hasty exits from this gent's domain. Guy Repasz, accompanied by Ed. Henderson, visits the scenes of boyhood days and goes over the old landmarks so familiar to his youth. Business here is "filled to over flowing." Many of the groups, seen on the pages of this book are taken here by Mr. Alf. T. Ringling. A paper is published here with the odd name "The Dynamite Cruiser."
Osceola, Iowa. Tuesday, Sejpt. 27. Arrive early. Lot close to cars and cars near the main business portion of the city, so everyone, patrons included, have it easy today. Business as usual big. Press and public alike loud in their praises of the show. Chas. Fisher returns to his duties and brings the good tiding of Mrs. Chas. Fisher's slow but sure recovery. Geo. Gray, solo clarionet, receives a fine wreath of myrtles and ferns from his many friends in the musical department. He will always cherish this little memento and take it to his home on the "Rock." Clate Alexander receives a visit from his cousin Elmer Parr here.
Bedford, Iowa. Wednesday, Sept. 28. This town lot and cars were also in a "bunch" so no one grumbled about the long walk, or the hard parade. The Ringling Bros. introduced a striking novelty here, that is to the show folks if not the public, and that was a band on foot leading the parade. The big band wagon broke through a bridge, and, it being impossible to move it, Geo. Ganweiler and his men finished the parade on foot. It required the assistance of Robt. Taylor to get the wagon out, but then Robert is used to doing impossible things. Laying all levity aside, it was almost a miracle that no one was injured.
Shenandoah, Iowa. Thursday, Sept. 29. Arrive early. Lot near railroad and two blocks from town. Very high wind all day long which kept the dust in the air and made it very unpleasant for pedestrians, and a rain storm at night. Many rents in the canvas as a result of this day's work. Business was light. Mr. Alf. T. Ringling, accompanied by his wife and boy, leaves for Baraboo, Wis. W. A. Patrick, Earnest Haley, A. E. Parsons and J. Snellen run into Omaha to see the sights.
Auburn, Neb. Friday, Sept. 30. Our first stand in Nebraska for this season. Lot two and one-half miles distant. The morning being pleasant no one particularly regretted their long walk. In spite of the fact that the Omaha Exposition, but a few miles distant, has been favored by cheap excursion rates, and every man, woman and child in Nebraska has had several months opportunity to enjoy it, still they waited for the "World's Greatest" and packed our lage canvas from end to end. But then we are also Nebraska's favorite show and nothing can hurt us.
Beatrice, Neb. Saturday, Oct. 1. Arrive early. Lot two miles out, same old place. Weather was stormy all morning but cleared up towards noon. Business only fair. W. H. Van Cleve leaves for a short visit home. E. B. Henderson celebrates his birthday by giving the band boys a treat. Liquid refreshments, lunch and cigars. The boys wouldn't care if Ed had a birthday 365 times a year. W. A. Patrick and E. Haley return from Omaha and entertain their friends with glowing descriptions of brass bands and electrical displays.
Mankato, Kas. Monday, Oct. 3. A small town but a mighty good show town. Arrive here 9 a. m. Sunday and in a short time was on the lot which lay right along side of the cars. The parade was given in a perfect cloud of dust. The boys could not tell the color of their clothes for dust wheich was everywhere. Every train coming in, every road leading into this little town was black with people and the afternoon saw the canvas filled to repletion, every nook and corner being utilized by our vast audience. The night attendance, of course, was light. Chas. F. Ryan was aroused at 3:30 a. m. Monday morning by what he thought was some people trying to break into the private car Caledonia. Upon investigation they were found to be a squad of "oyster can" police looking for our superintendent of detectives.
Clay Center, Kas. Tuesday, Oct. 4. Arrive here early. Long haul to the lot which is situated just north of the town. Wind and dust abundant; also audience. Business the same old thing. Many reminiscences given of last season, when we were head over heels in mud here and we had one of our heavy wagons upside down in a deep ditch; a foot of thin mud all around the train and a cold, driving rain. But why bring up disagreeable recollections. Today marks an era here. No rain and circus day. A merchant told us, the people were so sure it would rain today that they purchased rubber goods one day in advance so as to avoid the rush.
Herington, Kan. Wednesday, Oct. 5. Long run and arrive a trifle late. Nice lot on top of the hill near the schoolhouse. Weather cold and windy, and everyone is filled full of dust. Business very fair. Fred Madison had a little fun with three "bums" who were trying to force an entrance into the "Alvena," despite the efforts of Wm. Hinckley, the porter, to keep them out. The scuffling awakened him, and in his mighty wrath he arose and smote the leader a resounding whack with his cane, over the "frontspiece," and a broken walking stick was the result. However, the "bums" made a hasty exit, one of them yelping like a cur. As we pulled out of town they threw rocks at the train, one passing through the windows of the "Henderson."
Caldwell, Kas. Thursday, Oct. 6. Arrive here in good time, but a long haul to the lot delayed the parade somewhat. The lot was east of the town and was nice and level. Sections of what had once been a stand pipe were promiscuously scattered around the lot and caused much conjecture as the reason of its downfall. Business big. Miss Millie Turnour is sick and unable to work. The Johnson family, club swingers and jugglers, join. Good bye Kansas, we didn't hit you very hard this time, but some future time look out.
Enid, OK Ter. Friday, Oct. 7. Good run. Arrive early. Nice lot one block from the principal square. Rainy and gloomy in the morning, but cleared up at noon. Business was packed, extra and all. Ralph Breed visits friends here. The candy stands did a land office business all day and the "butchers" smiled. "That dance" was the side show winner here.
Kingfisher, OK Ter. Saturday, Oct. 8. Our first time here, but everyone knew the "World's Greatest" just the same. A handy lot, fine weather, big crowds, and a monster business was the order of the day, but the dust was the deepest and was everywhere present. News of the marriage of the "Human Reptile" and the "Human Globe," as the St. Louis Chronicle has it, was received here. The musicians hold a "musical" at night here and are entertained by thrilling stories of early days in the Territory by one who was there.
El Reno, OK Ter., Sunday and Monday, Oct. 9 and 10. Arrive early Sunday and are soon unloaded and on the lot close by the railroad. In a short time our large trains are transferred to the "Choctaw" and the "Big Show" settles into its usual Sunday quietness. Bonney, discovering the fact that his bag pipers were forgotten and were left somewhere between the lot and the cars in Kingfisher, our previous stand, engaged a livery and went in search of the missing "machinery." At 8 p. m. Sunday a fearful wind and rain storm swept the lot and city and left but little of our canvas up, the dressing room, black top, side show, cook tents and wardrobe tops were totally demolished, and the menagerie and horse tents were so full of rents that they afforded no protection whatever. "Sewing Bees" are now in order. W. A. Patrick celebrated his 25th birthday by serving a very unique banquet to his show friends in the Hotel Kerfoot. Over 200 mottoes decorated the walls of the banquet hall and much mirth and fun was enjoyed over them. The banquet was served in such a way as to always be remembered by those in attendance. When the festivities were at their height W. H. Van Cleve, in behalf of all, presented Mr. Patrick with a fine combination cane and umbrella. The revelry held riot until 3 a. m., at which time one of the most enjoyable experience in the history of the "World's Greatest" came to a finis. They boys in reaching the sleepers had to wade through mud and water almost knee deep and this also will be thoroughly remembered. Very large business. Frank Kamakichin and Ogawa, Japanese performers, join here.
Shawnee, OK Ter. Tuesday, Oct. 11. Arrive early. Lot close to runs, just over the line in the Indian Territory, while the city is in Oklahoma. Town is packed with people and one of the biggest day's business of the season is done here. Quite a number of the boys wooed the fickle goddess here but the wooing resulted disastrously. Fred Madison, in attending to board the moving train last night slipped and fell into a very muddy ditch; was slightly disfigured but "bobs up" serenely at the stand just the same. The smiling countenance is lacking, however.
South McAlester, Ind. Ter. Wednesday, Oct. 12. Arrive here in good time. Nice lot in the new fairground which is just being fenced. The town has changed for the better since our prior visit, but the same streets remain. They are full of ditches and boulders and are the roughest we ever experienced. The first band return from parade suffering from sea sickness (or fright). Business here was good. Chas. Ryan, our superintendent of detectives, was the victim of a practical joke today, perpetrated by Capt. Ellis, of the Indian police. While the captain was showing him through the U. S. jail, situated here, in which 49 prisoners were awaiting trial for various offenses, he was ushered into a large room which was used by the prisoners as a loafing room, and in turning around to speak to the captain was surprised to find that he stood alone. Captain Ellis had stepped outside. He was confronted by a locked door on one side and 49 prisoners, who evidently enjoyed his discomfiture, on the other. The prisoners soon had Chas. E. in the prison box and he was given a jury trial for "trespassing," and a verdict of "guilty" was soon rendered. The penalty for the offense was to either deposit 50 cents in the "box" or down on his knees and scrub the corner of the room. It is needless to say the 50 cents was shortly forthcoming and coveted liberty at hand. It is hard to tell which one enjooyed the joke the most, Capt. Ellis or Chas. Ryan.
Muscogee, Ind. Ter. Thursday, Oct. 13. Arrived early in a heavy rainstorm, but by 10 o'clock the sun was out clear and bright and a beautiful day resulted. The Gentry Dog and Pony show passed us here this morning. Lots of whites, Indians, negroes and a mixture of all three, were in town to see the "World's Greatest" and a big business greeted this, our first appearance here. This city presents a very thrifty appearance, and is surrounded by some of the best farming country in Indian Territory. Mr. Warren A. Patrick, of Wisconsin, was dined here by Mr. Parker, of Iowa.
Vinita, Ind. Ter. Friday, Oct. 14. Arrived here early. Town, railroad and lot were close to each other. Owing to the long run from here to Ft. Smith, only one show is billed. All business houses, U. S. court, and factories, etc., closed and the show shop was filled to overflowing. Jno. Ringling came back here and the wise ones shake their heads and say, "I told you so. Our closing day is near at hand," etc. Dick Hunter and Clay Lambert, of the Robinson Show, visit. Some mighty tough people live in this section of the country, but through the watchfulness of Chas. Ryan, assisted by several U. S. Marshalls, no trouble occured to mar the pleasures of the day.
Ft. Smith, Ark. Saturday, Oct. 15. Arrived early and was soon on the lot near the U. S. court building, only one block from the Main street. On the way here last night the white elephant cage was discovered on fire. The whole interior of the wagon was ablaze. Luckily water was near and the fire was soon extinguished. The elephant was severely burned about the body and legs, and had inhaled the smoke and flames to such an extent that rendered his recovery doubtful. Everything possible was done to alleviate the little fellow's sufferings. The streets here were a mass of people and several thousand were turned away at the afternoon performance. Night house crowded. Opposition here but it didn't work. Many of the show people visit the U. S. prison, which is situated here.
Pine Bluff, Ark. Monday, Oct. 17. Arrive Sunday p. m. Long run. Lot is sandy. Hard rain Sunday night makes the lot and streets very sloppy. This town is wide open, gambling houses and saloons everywhere. Many of the boys "woo the fickle goddess" with varying results. Although weather was cold and disagreeable, the show did a big business. Visited at the night performance by the Boston Ladies' Band, who play here for the fair, which begins on the morrow. Prof. Maginell and other old troopers.
Little Rock, Ark. Tuesday, Oct. 18. Arrive early. An extremely long haul to the lot, which has been made memorable by the World's Greatest." Always big business here. Two packed houses. Van Dee, of Gerome & Van Dee, vanished here and was seen no more. Still very cold.
Batesville, Ark. Wednesday, Oct. 19. Poor railroad facilities on the branch line delayed us so that we did not arrive here until 2 p. m. The lot is very soft and the tents are reared amidst difficulties of every nature. The parade left the lot at 4:30 p. m. and the performance is given at 6. Only one show here. The parade had hardly reached the lot when the heavens opened and the rain fell unceasingly until morning. A filled house greeted us just the same, as the country people were in town to see the show and see it they did. Did not get off the lot until 8 a. m. the next day. The dressing room ladies hold a social here in the wind and rain and many presents are exchanged.
Paragould, Ark. Thursday, Oct 20. The mud of the previous stand and the lack of railroad engines are responsible for missing this town entirely, as we did not arrive here until 10 o'clock p. m. After a lay over of one hour, during which time all necessary business, etc., was transacted, we left for our next "stopping place." Nothing but mud and water in sight and "awful" disagreeable weather. Kudah, the white elephant, died this morning just before leaving Batesville. He was a prime favorite with the show, as well as an attractive feature, and the loss is felt by all.
Malden, Mos. Friday, Oct. 21. Arrive early. Lot near the railrod, also town. Bad street but good, solid ground upon which we erect our tents, and the show is running in full blast again. Only one show is given here. Canvas filled. W. H. Van Cleve visits relatives here. Weather cold and disheartening.
Cape Girardeau, Mo. Saturday, Oct. 22. Arrive early over a very bad road. Good solid lot on top of the hill. Great Scott!! how cold it is. It snowed here yesterday. Big crowd in town and everybody went to the circus. Mrs. Chas. Fisher, who is now fully recovered from her serious illness, accompanied by her brother, are visitors. Everybody prepares luncheon for the long run of the morrow. Leon Peterson, musician, closes here. At Grant, drummer, joins. "Who stole the chickens?"
Arkadelphia, Ark. Monday, Oct. 24. Arrive 8 a. m. Monday morning after a long, weary, tiresome run. We stopped over in Popular Bluff, Mo., en route, to feed and rest the stock, etc. This our first appearance here, but we are known, however, and a very large business results. The sun shines once more and all are happy. No. 1 advance car passes through here on its way north, and closing dates form the principal topics of conversation. Several shots, with a running negro as the target, creates a little extra excitement around the runs at night. Kerry Meagher is visited by Will Maurice and wife, of Hot Springs. Frenchy, dining car, closes. Very heavy frost this morning.
Texarkana, Ark. Tuesday, Oct. 25. Arrive early but are delayed by deep sandy roads and a long haul. Parade left the lot at 12:30 and big show commenced at 3 p. m. Only one show was given here. Weather cold and disagreeable; business, however, was good. Chas. Andress, who has served us in the capacity of license adjuster for several seasons, joins. Our lot was on the Arkansas side this time.
Paris, Texas. Wednesday, Oct. 26. Arrive in good time. Lot close and solid streets. Still cold. Water was frozen in the buckets this morning. A jam of people in the town and extras were filled. Tremendous business. If our first stand in Texas is any criterion the biggest business in the history of the "World's Greatest" will be done in this state. The closing date is announced here as Dec. 8. Much consternation is the result among the "wise" ones. Miss Addie Lovemburg celebrates her 16th birthday here and is the recipient of many nice presents from her numerous friends with the show.
Bonham, Texas. Thursday, Oct. 27. Arrive early. Get on the lot early and parade goes out at 10 precisely over very dusty streets and facing a wind that blows the dust so deeply into the wardrobe that it can't be brushed out. Thousdands, however, face the dust and dirt to see the procession and wend their way to the lot, "and go all the way through."
Sherman, Texas. Friday, Oct. 28. Arrive in good time. Very long haul to the lot, which was rather small, but Happy Jack was equal to the emergency. Business "out of sight." Chas. Roy puts the finishing touches to the new lights for the ticket wagon and at night she shines like a diamond. Carl Mayo has a talk with the city editor of the Daily Democrat and actually gets his name in the next issue of that paper.
Greenville, Texas. Saturday, Oct. 29. The "Cotton Belt" gets us into town early and already crowds throng the streets. This is the home of the Shields Brothers, Texas giants, who are engaged in the saloon business here. Our lot was but a short distance from the railroad and only two blocks from town. Business is always the same in Texas. Ten-pins is getting to be a popular game with the "World's Greatest" sports now. James Wilson, expansionist, closes.
Dallas, Texas. Monday, Oct. 31. In bright and early Sunday a. m. Lot is in the same old place. Dallas presents the same thrifty appearance it always did and the business we did here this time was the same as we have always done in "Dallas town." The Second Regiment U. S. V. of Texas is camped here previous to mustering out, and we find soldiers on guard at every saloon and drug store. The boys were feeling quite frisky and had made up a party to "rush" the circus entrance. Trouble was averted by an officer who, anticipating their intention, gave the command "Fall in" and away they went to the guard house. Poor boys. Mr. Coxey, our press agent, visits; also Mr. and Mrs. Alf T. Ringling, with Little Richard, are with us again. Louis Prevost and Albert Crandall, join.
Fort Worth, Texas. Tuesday, Nov. 1. Fine lot here by the side of the railroad right at the end of the main thoroughfare. Business big, as usual. Mrs. Minnie Fisher is the happy recipient of a fine present, a dressing case, which contained a complete set of toilet articles, each trimmed with silver and gold, from the ladies of the dressing room in appreciation of her labors as treasurer of the Ladies' Club.
Waxahachie, Texas. Wednesday, Nov. 2. Good lot here east of town. Large crowds in town and large crowds in the circus. A very fine court house here takes the eyes of the boys. This is one of the principal centers of the cotton trade and thousdands of bales are now piled on the hill sides.
McKinney, Texas. Thursday, Nov. 3. A great town, good lot and tents that were tested to their utmost capacity. It looked like we would be compelled to give three shows here to accommodate the enormous crowds, but by placing experienced ushers on the seats the big crowds were fairly well handled in two. The weather so far has been beautiful. The oil mills and cotton gins were visited by many of the show people "just to see how it is done."
Corsicana, Texas. Friday, Nov. 4. Another good town. Arrive early and town, lot and circus all in a bunch. Business "out of sight." "The Queen of Texas" visits the afternoon performance, wearing a high hat, reflecting the radiance of the rainbow. This town resembles the oil towns of Pennsylvania, as derrick after derrick is in sight, all pumping oil. A great future is predicted.
Waco, Texas. Saturday, Nov. 5. Arrive early. Nice lot, rather small, near the "Cotton Belt." Lot of people in the city and the city was turned over to the "World's Greatest." The front of the lot was ten deep with "snack" stands, beer stands, peanut wagons and chili stews. A fine natatorium here is well patronized by performers and musicians. Natural hot water is used and a rival of Hot Springs in medicinal properties is discovered. Big business.
Taylor, Texas. Sunday and Monday, Nov. 6 and 7. Arrive early Sunday a. m. A nice, quiet town to Sunday in, but contrary to their usual custom the saloons celebrated the event by keeping open and paying fines Monday morning. The show was advertised for "Afternoon only." A night performance was given, however. Harry Watson was kicked by one of the ring horses and completely "knocked out." He was struck squarely in the face and sustained severe injuries. It seems almost miraculous that he escaped more serious results. Elena Ryland again rides her principal act. She has been compelled to lay off for a few days on account of a sprained ankle. Afternoon busines packed.
Austin, Texas. Tuesday, Nov. 8. Arrive early. Same lot as of old. Lots of Texans in their Capitol city and they came to see the big show. This is election day, and strange to say the state went Democratic. The Daily Tribune prints a very flattering (?) notice of our parade. Many of the boys watch the election returns after the night show as they are reflected on the bulletin Board. Ex-Gov Hogg was an afternoon visitor. Business "great." The Capitol building, which is the pride of Texas, came in for its share of admiration. Very dusty. Chief Debro and wife, Esquimaux and Frank, and Emma Caldwell tattooed people, join, while the candy force is increased by the addition of Geo. and Arthur Parsons.
San Antonio, Texas. Wednesday, Nov. 9. Arrive in good time and find the lot next to the sleepers. Everything very handy. Just before parade time a raw "Northerner" visits us and a hurried search for overcoats, etc., is made. This is one noted pecularity of Texas weather. One must go with a linen duster, straw hat, ear muffs, fur cap and overcoat, prepared for any emergency, as there are no forerunners to warn of these sudden changes. Business here was "up to the standard." As the Alamo was full of ballots no visitors were allowed, so the gang contented themselves with visiting the ancient Cathedral and the Buck Horn Saloon, principally the latter.
Cuero, Texas. Thursday, Nov. 10 Arrive eary and unload trains upon the lot. Owing to long run to Houston, our next stand, only one show is given. Business fair. The loading facilities were so handy that Superintendent Taylor had the trains ready for departure an hour sooner than anticipated by some of the boys, with the result that 8 weary troopers stood and watched the red lights disappering in the dim distance. A hurried consultation of railroad guides, etc., revealed the "awful truth" that Houston could not be reached until 7 p. m. the next day. With frenzied footsteps they rushed into the telegraph office and Ringling Bros. were notified of their terrible plight, who thoughtfully held the last section at Yookum until the lost ones reached there by means of a local freight. A great sigh of relief floated through the frigid atmosphere when they discovered the black sleeper, and each one made a solemn vow hereafter to "cut it out."
Houston, Texas. Friday, Nov. 11. Arrive 7 a. m. in a pouring rain. Long haul to the lot and the lot a long distance from the principal thoroughfare. Still that "Northerner" holds full sway. Business affected but little if any. By parade time the rain ceases, although old "Sol" is a stanger to us. The Al G. Fields Minstrels in town and witness our afternoon performance. Many of the "lucky" ones retturn the compliment during the evening. The big top was lighted by gasoline during the matinee. Real show business.
Galveston, Texas. Saturday, Nov. 12. Arrive early in a heavy rain which did not cease until about noon, at which time the parade was made. The lot was suited to the weather and the water soon drained away, leaving us high and dry. Business, under the circumstances, was big. A fine stretch of beach here. After the night show a number visited the different variety houses, while the great majority tramped through mud and water looking for their sleepers, which had suddenly disappeared as though the earth had swallowd them. "No more home than a rabbit." Later the sleepers were found about 2 a. m. by Art Dacoma, a noted scout and explorer, and soon the "weary troupers" were sound asleep.
Shreveport, La. Monday, Nov. 14. Arrive Monday a. m., after a long tiresome run of 288 miles. Rain in the morning dampens everything, even the ardor of the men, but by 11 o'clock all is in readiness for the parade, and the afternoon show begins at 2:30. The lot is out in West Shreveport and the street car accomodations very bad. Weather cold and disagreeable, but business is much better than was anticipated. A car load of draft horses - 28 head - is added here. The sleepers are held near the lot for the benefit of the "troupers" and were not transferred until 11 p. m., which saved the people a two and one-half mile walk. The pole wagon broke down at night, and we did not get away until about 3 o'clock the next morning.
Alexandria, La. Tuesday, Nov. 15. Owing to the delay in loading last night we arrive very late. Short haul and lot very good. Roads in town and country are bad and not many country people were in. The parade did not attempt to go up town, but circled around a few blocks and then went back to the lot. Parade at 1:30. Performance begins at 3. Cloudy and cold. Business light. Only an afternoon performance given.
Donaldsonville, La. Wednesday, Nov. 16. Arrive 9 a. m. Lot near the railroad but very wet and sloppy. Rain in the morning and surrounding country inundated. No attempt is made to unload, but orders of Ringling Bros. are "to feed and run to New Orleans as soon as possible." Rosa Dockrill mourns the loss of her principal horse, which died this morning from catarrh of the stomach.
New Orleans, La. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sundy, Nov. 17th, 18th, 19th and 20th. We arrive here Wednesday afternoon about 2:30 p. m., transfer across the river and unload from the I. C. tracks near the corner to Tehoupitoulas St. and Louisiana Ave., where the sleepers stood during the entire engagement. As the lot near Canal St. - Athletic Park - was inundated, arrangements were made to use Audubon Park, considerable difficulty was experienced in getting on this lot also as the ground was very soft and extremely low in places. The parade left the lot 9:30 Thursday a. m. and our New Orleans season began that night. During the parade the heavens opened and deluged us. Not one escaped a drenching. When we returned 2 p. m. the lot was a lake. Every effort was made to overcome the depth of mud and water; cinders, hay and straw was used in large quantities, the menagerie was planked, and walks were built from the various street car lines to the main entrance, although we were strangers in a strange land, yet we received a royal welcome and the "world's greatest" was liberally patronized. It is said our business surpassed that of any circus that has ever visited this city and this fact alone is a source of much satisfaction to the management. The morning hours, there being but one parade, was spent by the boys in viewing places of interest: the Custom House, U. S. Mint, Cemeteries, Parks, French Market and Docks, all came in for their share. Many visitors with old friends, others with new. Mr. Chas. Fisher performed for two exhibitons but was compelled to desist from sickness. Taking it as a whole our engagement in this city was one of the most enjoyable as well as remunerative of the season. We left here 5 a. m. Monday morning for our next stand.
Note. The remainder of the show's route is published without comment.
Baton Rouge, Monday, November 21.
Natchez, Tuesday, November 22.
Vicksburg, Wednesday, November 23.
Greenville, Thursday, November 24.
Greenwood, Friday, November 25.
Yazoo City, Saturday, November 26.
Sunday
Aberdeen, Monday, November 28.
CHS webmaster J. Griffin, last modified April 2008.