Ringling Brothers Route Book, 1899

From: Red Wagon Annual. A Circus Year Book of Ringling Brothers World’s Greatest Shows, Souvenir 1899, Chicago: Central Printing and Engraving Co. Program, detailed day-by-day route and some staff & performers. Not included here are the articles, some text, all 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.

Staff

Ringling Bros., Sole Owners and Managers
Al. Ringling, Director of Exhibitions
Otto Ringling, Director of Finances
Alf. T. Ringling, Director of Press
Chas. Ringling, Director of Advertising
John Ringling, Director of Advance
Clay Lambert, General Contracting Agent
Dick Hunter, Contracting Agent
W. D. Coxey, Press Agent
W. W. Freeman, Press Agent
Ralph W. Peckham, Excursion Agent
A. G. Ringling, General Agent & Advertising Car No. 1
Geo. Goodhart, Agent Advertising Car No. 2
Tom Daily, Agent Advertising Car No. 3
W. H. Horton, Special Advertising Agent
Sam McCracken, Lithograph Ticket Agent
Geo. Heiser, Forage Agent
Kerry Meagher, Assistant Treasurer
Al. Jones, Accountant
Henry Ringling, Superintendent Front Door
Lew Nichols, Superintendent Side Show
Al. Conlon, Superintendent War Show
George Ganweiler, Musical Director
Ed. Shipp, Assistant Equestrian Director
Dan Leon, Assistant Equestrian Director
James Jordan, Superintendent
John Snellan, Superintendent Tents
Spencer Alexander, Superintendent Baggage Stock
Ed. Jenkins, Assistant Superintendent Baggage Stock
Robert Meeks, Superintendent Ring Stock
Chas. O. Miller, Superintendent Properties
Wm. Winner, Superintendent Animals
Pearl Souders, Superintendent Elephants
Wm. Fay, Superintendent Transportation
Chas. Roy, Superintendent Lights
John Shafer, Superintendent Wardrobes
A. E. Parsons, Superintendent Refreshment Stands
Ernest Haley, Superintendent Hotel Department
Paul Cunningham, Superintendent Sleeping Car Porters
R. Barrett, Superintendent Dining Cars

Advertising Car No. 1

A. G. Ringling, Manager W. H. Horton Jas. Howard Frank Estes J. E. Cole Robert Frye Wm. Carpenter Alex. Cunningham

B. G. Scanlon James Managhan Hiram Walker Steve Mayo Otto Hemphill C. A. White E. Will Griffith

Richard Wagner O. M. Ballard Geo. Griffith F. LeClair Orin Stevens Peter Luzley E. C. Laird

Advertising Car No. 2

Geo. Goodhart, Manager Chas. E. Knox Wm. Connors Martin Little Wm. Hemphill

E. C. West Foster McLeod Otto Blindheim Myron Malcolm Chas. Heefberger

Louis Twesne Chas. A. Bostwick J. Tucker Wm. Clayborne F. A. Dooley

Advertising Car No. 3

Tom Dailey, Manager Geo. Choffin Chas. O. McFail R. Hanson Wm. Ryan W. Ward

Even Seward W. Willey E. Bateman E. Bluski W. J. Slattery P. F. Murphy

L. Knob R. Trotman Ed. Cole L. Piepenbrink Chas. O'Brien

Canvas

John Snellan, Supt. Lee Coleman, 1st Asst. Supt. Chas. Howland, 2nd Asst. Supt. Henry schaffer, 3rd Asst Supt. Bob Wise, 4th Asst. Supt. Jon Deviney F. Shodde Chas. Brady Wm. Brown Fred Wirth Geo. Thayer L. Puntice Jno. Panner Jas. McMullen Jim Allen Harry Patterson Jno. Miller Wm. Ecker Joe Watson F. N. Bell Will Young A. Bozarth Jno. Boyer Ed. Gardner

Geo. Turner Wm. Stroker Jim McDonald Joe Dellgarn M. W. Stevens Geo. Clark Gottlieb Rohackeb Joe Laird Joe Kline Ed. Curby F. Smith Tom Hathaway A. Steinfield Harry King W. L. Johnson J. A. Porter Ed. Curley Chas. Kidd Harry Smith Moody Davis C. Williams Jno. Bush Chas. W. Williams Jack O'Brien

Chester White W. H. Stillson Jno. Shoemaker Jno. Thayer James Malloy Ed. Farrell Robert Post Jno. Riely M. Burns Jno. Francen Jess Allen E. Brandon L. Ballinger Will Dudley Geo. Stobaugh Joe Ferguson O. May Herny Dubois A. Hagemann Jno. Hatch

Baggage Stock

Spencer Alexander, Supt. Ed. Jenkins, Asst. Supt. Wm. Heether Jas. Hickey Chas. Dairy Chas. Burdett Harry Lewis Peter Calahan Ed. Frye Bill Kennedy J. Green Wm. Beebe Chas. Muffley Ed. Smith Pat Reynolds Jas. Stanley J. A. Harris Ed. Brewster J. M. English Roy Smith Rob Rowland

Geo. Stumpf Henry Welsh S. C. Peterman Chas. Lindley Chas. Woods Harry Wensel Henry Hugdall Jno. Ruge H. M. Farley J. B. Kershner Martin Roidron Phil Peterson R. Bryson W. A. Ballard R. F. Armstrong Bruce Waters Frank Thompson Thomas Shreve W. S. Taylor Nick Straus

Chas. Rooney Dave Chadwick Geo. Kingster Jno. Dalton Morris Hofey Joe Swartz Addison Gooding Geo. Kinney Chas. Pettengell R. Emerie B. F. Moore Fred Miller Dan Scanlan E. Hallock Frank Rinke Dave Demint A. C. Culley Jno. Mansfield Wm. Day T. R. Saunders

Ring Stock

Bob Meeks, Supt. Al Thayer Jno. Delong Thomas Smith Geo. Noonan Harlow Priece R. E. Striker Wm. Strickler Ed. Kennedy Jack Walters

Harry A. Smith Chas. Mersser Jack Elliot Geo. Smith Frank Speke Ed. Willbanks Chas. Lapham Fred Clifton Guy Knodle Gus Larson

Harry W. Smith Billie Turner T. J. Hill Frank Watson J. W. Cole Richard Retallick H. E. Daley Walter Platts

Elephant Men

Pearl Souders, Supt.
Dick Jones, Geo. Newman, Jack Trouton, Bert McKinsey, Louis Ott, Dan Freeman, Chas. White

Animal Keepers

Wm. Winner, Supt. Jno. Rhettenback Jno. Colliton Albert Illig Jno. Hatfield Chas. Evans

Wm. Spencer Harry Snyder Jno. Rafter Jno. King Fred King Tim Buckley

Ed. Guthrie Joe Ross Robert Rains Jame Hickey Jas. McPhillips

Train Men

Wm. H. Fay, Supt. Chas. Brown, Asst. Supt. Henry Schade, Car Repairer Jno. Richards Geo. Watson H. J. Sheppard Joe Shaw

J. C. Webb E. D. Gardner Ed Lyons S. C. Wells Chas. Sherman C. W. Ellis Fred Dietz

Ed. Farley Jno. Furrier Frank Bruton Frank Hassenfus Geo. Stanley F. L. Ferris

Porters

Geo. Evans, Tom Roberts, H. C. Keller, Geo. Wyman

Side Show Canvas

Jno. Jennings, Supt. J. Tibbits Wm. H. Wilson John Stafford

Dan Phester Wm. Jones Harry Abbitt B. Rudisill

Black Top Canvas

Matt Schommer, Supt.
Frank Aiken, Chas. Kessner, Gus Kessnel, Chas. Falconer

Wardrobe

Fred Shaffer, Supt.
Joe Chesswell, Joe Cashen, Ed. Holt, Geo. Elroy

Lights

Chas. Roy, Supt.
Jim Clark, Geo. Sawyer, S. E. Vandenburg, Fred Marshall, Louis Strong

Mechanical Department

Blacksmiths: Fred Turner, A. D. Robbins, J. B. Fourniea
Harnessmaker: John Burrock
Greasers: Wm. Crosby, D. F. Brennan, Carl Nosdick

Sleeping Car Porters

Paul Cunningham, Supt., Car "Olympus"
Geo. Swift, Car "Caledonia"
Arthur Redmond, Car "Henderson"
Chas. Gley, Car "Arcadia"
Arthur Boyd, Car "Alvena"

Dining Car "Petronius"

E. J. Barrett, Steward Clarke Davis, Head Waiter Henry Laird Chas. Pike

Ellis Clemmons Bert Spees Wm. Herron Charles Sturm, Chef

Joseph Sweet, Pastry Cook Chas. Wiebke, 2nd Pastry Cook Leslie Lee, Yardman Lewis Ritter, Dishwasher

Performer's Dining Tent

John O'Hare, M. Montgomery, B. Wolff, C. Thornton, G. Bagerley, Nesfritt, R. Henderson

Workingmen's Cook House

E. C. Haley, Steward H. S. Rubien, Supt. W. C. Ballinger, Head Waiter John Dillon C. H. Williams Fred O. Haver H. Rieck

Wm. Holmes James Shirley Joe Carroll F. Mogart M. Frazer C. Chapman Dick Sparks

J. Smith Paul Gallenbeck Ed. Bergerson E. Meddler R. Beland I. Smith Sam Hollimichel

Camp Fire Department

Ferdinand Welk, Head Camp Fireman
Herbert Carley, 1st Asst.

Kitchen Employes

R. E. Travers, Chef Harry Metz, 1st Asst. F. Schlitz, 2nd Asst.

Joe Haaf, 3rd Asst. James Gleason, 4th Asst. F. Dennison, Pan Washer

Butchers

Louie Kleeman, Head Butcher
Geo. Tawbenberger, 1st Asst.

Refreshment Stands

A. E. Parson, Supt. Frank Parson E. Stott John Higney

George Parson C. D. Allen Jas. Dwyer Arthur Parson

Fred Railton Thos. Bennett Albert Morgan Fred Baker

Side Show

Lew Nichols, Supt.
Ticket Sellers: Chas. Griffin, John Manly, Frank Griffin, Fred Madison, W. Goodwin, B. A. Keating, Harry Piel

Performers:

Mme. Leland, Mind-Reader Louis Wilson, Albino Lulu Baum, Tattooed Lady Zelda, Snake Charmer Francisco Lentine, Three Legged Boy Chief Debro and Wife, Esquimos

Arcaris and Sister, Impalement Act Helen Mathews, Long Haired Lady Bertha Carnihan, Midget Gertie Platt, Fat Lady Chas. Griffin, Magician and Ventriloquist Beyruth Troupe of Arabs: Marie, Frank, Joseph, Joe

Side Show Band

Clate Alexander, Leader Jess Davis Dell Sanderson Sumpter Derrell Geo. Stout

Ed. Miller Asa Cummings E. P. Harrington Roll Reed Alf Arnold

Top

Ringling Brothers' Official Program

Ringling Brothers' Military Band

Geo. Ganweiler, Conductor

Numbers wiil be rendered from the following repertoire and announced by placard displayed from band stand, corresponding with numbers of selection as below:

1. March
2. Overture, Barber of Seville, - Rossini
3. Melodies from The Telephone Girl - Kirker
4. Paraphrase, Rocked in the Cradle of the Deep - Lovenberg
5. Overture, The Fall of Jericho - Maillochard
6. Gems from the Lady Slavery - Kerker
7. Scenes from Faust - Gounod
8. Popular Songs
9. Overture, The King's Lieutenant - Titel
10. A Colored Wedding - Laurendeau
11. La Benediction des Poignard - Me?erbeer
12. Overture, Crown Diamonds - Auber
13. In the Deep Cellar - Lovenberg; An Alabama Dance - Gilder
14. Airs from The Highwayman - R. De Koven
15. Overture, The Italian in Algiers - Rossini
16. Little Trooper - Furst
17. Melodies from The Bohemian Girl - Balfe
18. Overture, Zampa, Herold
19. Sounds from the South - Isenman
20. Hungarian Fantasia - Tobani
21. Overture, Morning, Noon and Night - Suppe
22. Fragments from The Serenade - Victor Herbert
23. Selected
24. Clorindy (origin of the cake walk) - Marion
25. The Fortune Teller - Victor Herbert

Display No. 1

Brilliant Introductory Pageant, representing the Inaugural Ceremonies of the Grand Fetes of Ancient Olympus. A Kaleidoscopic Panorama of Regal Magnificence, completely filling all the Rings, Stages and Immense Hippodrome Course and concluding with the Grand Patriotic Spectacle of the Last Days of the Century.

Display No. 2 - A Potpurri of Phenomenal Performances, by Artists of Skill and Diversified Talent.

Ring No. 1: Vammamoto Bros. Nationally characteristic and interesting exploits on the Vibrating Bamboo Perch, presenting unusual feats of equilibrium.

Stage: Aronson and Ashton. Unique Evolutions and Character Travesties on the Lofty Perch.

Ring No. 2: Hagahara and Okeo. Marvelous Equilibristic Performances upon a Frail and LOfty Framework of Bamboo with breakaway finish.

Ring No. 3: The Adairs. Superb Balancing Displays, combined with an Astonishing Exhibition of Strength and Dexterity. Presenting a Novelty Perch Performance.

Display No. 3 - A Series of Mid-Air Performances of Exceptional Skill, Daring and Endurance.

Ring No. 1: Miss Bertha Dorian. Difficut and Dangerous Feats upon the Trapeze.

Stage: Albo, Boise and Pickard. Astonishing Evolutions, Somersaulting, Swings, Drops and Exhibitions of Strength and Daring upon the Aerial Bars.

Ring No. 2: Miss Minnie Fisher. Incomprehensible High Air Divertisements upon a Slender Wire held by the Teeth, showing the possibilities resulting from Physical Culture.

Ring No. 3: Agee and Carroll. Laughable Antics and Grinning, Freakish Mad Cap Frolics on the Revolving Suspended Ladder.

Display No. 4 - Highly Skilled Medley of Contortion Specialties and Wire Walking.

Ring No. 1: Miss Bessie Leon, Skillful Combination Act of Wire Walking and Trained Pigeons. Otamo, Unique Exhibit of Expert Contortion Exercises.

Stage: Geo. Zello, Marvelous Display of Strength and Ambidextrous Balancing Feats. Ami, All kinds of Intricate Bending and Serpentine Evolutions.

Ring No. 2: Yammamota. Unusual Exploits in Tight Wire Feats by the Great Tokio Artist.

Ring No. 3: Miss Nettie Carroll, Deft and Dexterous Exercises on a Frail and Swinging Wire Thread. All Right, Juvenile Japanese Contortion Specialties.

Display No. 5 - John O'Brien's Great Creation - The Wonderfully Successful, Original Arenic Feature, 61 Beautiful Specimens of the Perfect Horse, gayly caprisoned with Costly Trappings, obedient to the Trainer's Call, moving in Harmony in the most Complicated, Intricate and Difficult Maneuvers.

Display No. 6 - A Varied Exhibit of Novel and Unique Performances.

Ring No. 1: Lew Semlinc, a new, Novel Bovine Actor, and the only Performing Bull in the world. La Rue Brothers, Thrilling Feats on the lofty Roman ladders. All Right, the marvelous swinging Japanese ladders.

Stage: Carlosa, Wonderful Exploits upon the unsupported ladder, the only act of its kind before the public. Hasokowa, Japanese Slide for Life.

Ring No. 2: Joseph Le Fleur. Marvelous Somersaults. Leaps, Dives and Plunges from the top of the lofty ladder to the ground.

Ring No. 3: Geo. Motz, the direction of a Duo of very Interesting Assimli Comedians. Hagahara and Daughter, Double Ladder Speciality by two experts from the Mikado's empire.

Display No. 7 - Coterie of the World's Most Famous Equestriennes.

Ring No. 1: Miss Olga Reed. The Peerless Queen of Principal Equstrianism in Dashing Finished Arenic Novelties.

Stage: Miss Julia Lowanda, Miss Elena Ryland. Two Principal Equestriennes, apearing in One Ring at One Time.

Ring No. 2: A Potpourri of Comic Fellows in an Ever-Changing Medley of Funny Situations, Laughable Antics and Ludicrous Maneuvers.

Ring No. 3: Miss Lizzie Rooney. The Petite and Finished Terpsichorean Artiste in Principal Equestrian Feats.

Display No. 8 - The Carl Mayo Troupe of Grotesque Skatorial Artists.

Display No. 9 - A Series of Athletic and Acrobatic Sensations.

Ring No. 1: Aronson and Ashton. Novel and Unique Display of Muscular Dexterity and Skill.

Stage: The Leonder Bros. The Latest Conceits and Most Elite Novelties, Statuesque Acrobatiques.

Ring No. 2: The DaComa Family. The Great European Sensation, a Troupe of Male and Female Acrobats attired in Full Evening Dress executing the Most Difficult Feats ever attempted.

Ring No. 3: The Brothers La Rue. Novelty Brother Acts and Acrobatic Divertisements, by a Duo Past Masters in Athletic Athletic Excellence.

Display No. 10 - Hodge-Podge of Up-To-Date and Difficult Vaudeville Specialties.

Ring No. 1: John Rooney, Terpsichorean Revels on the Bounding Rope. Alf. Miaco, Comic High-Stilt Walking. Siegrist and Marks, The Clown's Carnival.

Stage: Yammamato Bros., Difficult Barel-Dancing and Posturing. Wm. Kilpartick, the King of the Drum Major's Baton. Jones and Zammert, the Burlesque Giraffe.

Ring No. 2: Hagahara and Son, Wonderful Japanese Top Spinning and Juggling. Delamont and Roberts, Acrobatic Trick Table Act. Art. Adair, Comic High Stilts.

Ring No. 3: Jules Turnour, Difficult and Laughter-Provoking Juggling Specialty. F. Williams, Feats of Balancing and Juggling. Motz, Johnson and Carroll, the Docile, Giraffe and his Triumphant Trainer.

Display No. 11 - A Number of Unique, Thrilling and Varied Equestrian Specialties.

Ring No. 1: Miss Olga Reed. Graceful and Finished Female Equestrianism Specialties, while clad in Ball Room Costume.

Ring No. 2: Albert Crandall. The Funniest, Most Wonderful Exhilerating and Laughable Equestrian Specialty Extant, riding the Great Mule Thunderbolt.

Ring No. 3: Miss Elena Ryland. The Perfect and Peerless Mistress of the Horse, in Marvelous Exploits on the Bareback of a Speeding Trotter.

Display No. 12 - A Grand Ensemble and Tournament of the Champion Leapers of the World, headed by the World-Famous Long Distance Double Somersault Leaper, Mr. Wm. De Van, introducing a Score of Funny Clowns in an Incomparable Array of Fearless Expert Performers.

Display No. 13 - Marvelous Examples of Equine Perfection, Exhibited by Peerless Horsewomen.

Ring No. 1: Miss Kate Mayo. The Princely Spotted Arabian Stallion "Sultan" guided through a superb manage act.

Stage: Miss Ada Castello. Riding the wonderful bucking, jumping, high-kicking and perpendicularly walking horse "Jupiter."

Ring No. 2: John O'Brien. "Capt. Kidd," an example of the perfectly educated and properly handled haute ecole under the guidance of John O'Brien.

Ring No. 3: Miss Allie Jackson. Extraordinary high-school menage act introducing the marvelous "Mizpah," the only retrieving horse in the world.

Display No. 14 - The Three Greatest Herds of Performing Elephants in the World.

Mons. Jean Marchand. A company of educated unwieldy brute actors, in a unique exhibiton of elephantive sagacity, introducing the famous pugilistic pachyderms.

Prof. Lockhart. A quintette of elephant comedians in a medley of unquestioned funny, ludicrous, button-bursting terpsichorean athletic, musical and leacchanalian revels.

Herr Eduard Souders. The proboscidian musicians. A 20-ton brass band. Elephants actually taught to play upon brass band instruments. Presenting beyond doubt the biggest band in weight, lung-power and laugh-making extant.

Display No. 15 - The Unquestioned Champion Bareback Riders of the World, and a Coterie of Mirthful Laugh-Makers.

Ring No. 1: Wm. DeVan. The acknowledged champion of Europe. First appearance in America. Principal bareback somersault event.

Stage: Micheal and John Rooney. The undisputed champion American riders and greatest equestrian duo the world has ever seen.

Ring No. 2: Clowns: Wm. Marks, Jules Turnour, Alf. Miaco, Geo. Zammert, F. LaRue, Steve Miaco, Lew Sunlin, Geo. Hartzell, Art. Adair, Geo. Metz, Al. Johnson, F. Delardmont, F. Wilson, Frank Jones, Geo. Cole, Carl Mayo, C. Roberts.

Ring No. 3: Cecil Lowanda. The most noted equestrian of Paris, and European favorite. Principal bareback somersault equestrianism.

Display No. 16 - High-Air Specialties by Leading Artists.

Ring No. 1: Miss Bertha Dorian. Specialties of a thrilling nature, ably executed.

Stage: Miss Nettie Carroll. Novelty diversions, graceful posing and finished exercises on the flying rings.

Ring No. 2: Miss Millie Turnour, finished artistic, perfect exhibition of premier trapeze exploits by the world's greatest lady aerialist. Miss Dot Adair, flying ring specialty and fearless mid-air evolutions.

Ring No. 3: Miss Emeline Fredricks. Exhibition of perfect equilibrium by the great Australian aerial wonder.

Display No. 17 - The Famous Clown Band and Operatic Soloists of Musical Mimics.

Display No. 18 - The World's Undisputed Premier Aerialists.

The Flying Fishers. Aerialists supreme, astounding, sensational double-return act in mid-air.

The Famous DaComas. Dazzling brilliant quadruple-return act. Double mid-air somersaults across the entire arena.

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. Cole, green; E. Devan, red; Harry Blanchard, black and yellow.

Second 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 - Shetland Ponies ridden by Monkey Jockeys. Twice around the track.

Fourth Event - Ladies' Jockey Race. Three times around the track. Horses: Salamander, Billy Buck, Allard. Riders: Jessie Leon, purple and gold; Minnie Johnson, red and white; Minnie Fisher, black and white.

Fifth Event - Miniature Roman Chariot Race, twice around the track. Juvenile Contestants driving Shetland Ponies, 4 to each chariot. Drivers: Geo. Cole, green; L. Dillon, red.

Sixth Event - Dog Race. English Whippet Hounds, twice around the track. Lew Sunlin.

Seventh Event - Roman Standing Race, three times around the track. Horses: Danger, Sultan; Rider: W. W. Cheyenne, purple. Horses: Chicago, Avalanche; Rider: Frank Jones, red.

Eighth Event - Clown Race, once around the track. Shetland Ponies to Sulky. Lew Sunlin and Frank Jones, Contestants.

Ninth Event - Shetland Pony againt 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 Ax, Trooper, Samson, Sheridan, Harrison, Cyclone, Mermaid, Zenobia. Drivers: Rhoda Royal, red; John Slater, white.

Top

The Season's Route

Chicago, Ill. April 15 to 30. The opening of the season! How much it means! How many are interested in the occasion. What to the public is merely the greatest amusement event of the season is to the hundreds of circus performers, musicians and other employes an important step in each career, a mile-stone along life's highway.

The opening of the Ringling Brothers' circus season in Tattersalls, 1899, was pregnant with all the things that are and the things that are to be when the red of the circus wagon is really red and all the spangles on the parade costumes glitter and glimmer and sparkle as though happy in the joy of awakening circus life. The circus in the spring is always a joyful affair. It is a Ponce de Leon that has found the rejuvenating spring. It has no marks of age upon it, and its people catch the inspiration brought by its annualy recurring youthfulness, and are filled with the hope and faith of a child to whom disappointment is still a stranger. It has always been thus, and thus it was Arpil 15, 1899, when Ringling Brothers' World's Greatest Show opened its 16th season in Tattersalls, 16th and State streets, Chicago. For two weeks the performers, musicians, department chiefs, employes and officials of the great amusement institution had been arriving, and for eight days the three rings and stages in the big amphitheatre had been alive with preparations and rehearsals. The parade took place on Wednesday night, April 12th, and was in every way a successful pageant of the wealth and opulent splendor of the great show, as well as a tremendous demonstration of Chicago's appreciaton of the event. To estimate exactly how many hundred thousands of people saw the parade would be impossible. From the beginning of the cavalcade until its return to Tattersalls, after 11 o'clock, one great ocean of eager and appreciative humanity lined the route of its triumphant journey.

The opening Saturday night, April 15th, was no less a triumph than the parade, and the entire engagement surpassed by far any one of the previous engagements of the Ringling show in Chicago. During the engagement there were no mishaps, no accidents; nothing in fact but big business. The Times-Herald, however, recorded a romance of considerable intrest, from which the following is a copy:

A strange and romantic reunion of sister and brother who had not seen nor heard of each other for ten years, occurred last night at Ringling Brothers' circus. More strange still, the principals were both performers who had been in daily contact with each other without once suspecting their relationship.

It came about in this way: Mlle. Millie Turnour had just completed her thrilling high trapeze act and was returning from the ring, bowing to the audience in response to the salvos of applause. The clown band was to come on next, and Al Ringling had given the signal for them to enter. One of the clown musicians who had been much impressed with her daring act, said to her in French, as she passed him, "c'est charmant, Mademoiselle."

Al Ringing blew his whistle a second time impatiently, for the clown band to come on, but it did not come. Mlle. Turnour had replied in French to the musician who had complimented her, and after the rapid exchange of one or two sentences the clown had opened his arms, with the word "sister," and Mlle. Turnour had fallen into them, saying, as she did so, "brother." John Ringling had to separate them, and then the clown band went on, the brother and sister resuming their interrupted reunion later on.

Mlle. Turnour told the story afterwards. She said: "My brother ran away from home ten years ago, when a boy. We never heard from him, but we learned he had come to America. Father was a tight rope walker, and he decided to come over here, chiefly for the purpose of finding his son. We heard he was in Wisconsin and went there on an engagement. It was there I first walked a tight rope. Father was ill one night, and unable to do his act. The manager of the show we were with would accept no excuses and insisted on his going on. Finally I volunteered to do his turn. I had never attempted it, but I believe I inherited my powers of equilibrium from him, and I not only walked the rope, but made a hit. Of course I had practice balancing on the trapeze and that helped me."

"But that has nothing to do with finding brother. The phrase he used, 'C'est charmant,' was one father was particularly accustomed to use at home in France. That is why the expression caught my ear, and led to the subsequent conversation which unfolded our respective identities to each other."

The news spread quickly among the performers, and Mlle. Turnour and her bother were warmly congratulated.

Rockford, Ill. Tuesday, May 2. First stand out of Chicago. Everybody pleased to get under the white tents once more. The big spread of canvas, all white and new, with the red wagons clustered about, look like the real thing. Three of the Ringling elephants joined the show here, as the capacity of Tattersalls was not sufficient to hold the full contingent of proboscidians. With our first day out we encounter, also, our first rain storm of the season. The band boys miss Martin, baritone player, who remained in Chicago suffering with the rheumatism.

Elgin, Ill. Wednesday, May 3. Although this is our first regular run since opening under canvas yesterday, everything runs as smoothly as if we had been running several months instad of two days. Numerous films for the war show arrive. The weather was warm during the day, followed by rain in the evening. Baritone player Patton joined here to take Martin's place. Mr. Rossete was visited here by numerous friends. Mr. Rosette was a member of the Elgin band here at one time.

Joliet, Ill. Thursday, May 4. The wather here wa cloudy and cool, but the crowds were warm for a circus, and especially for the World's Greatest. The state penitentiary is located here, and our zebras set up a jealous howl at the sight of the many striped trustees who walked about the streets.

Pontiac, Ill. Friday, May 5. The weather to-day is an improvement over yesterday's. It is clear and warm, and makes one feel that the circus season has really begun. The state reformatory for boys is situated here.

Springfield, Ill. Saturday, May 6. The distance from the lot to the cars here was variously estimated by those who walked it, from four to seven miles. At night a number of the show people waited at the depot for the coaches, which gladdened their weary eyes at about 3 a. m. A light rain added pleasant interest to the long wait.

St. Louis, Sunday, May 7 to 13. Arrived here bright and early Sunday morning for a week's stand. The big grand stand which had been built during the week has the opera chirs alrady in place, and the big top goes up in a hurry. At about 3 p. m. a storm comes up. The wind blows fiercely and the big top having just been erected and not yet having been guyed out, is blown down. In consequence, the show does not open on Monday afternoon, but at night instead. The parade, however takes place on time Monday morning, and all St. Louis turns out to see it. The weather during the week was alternately clear and rainy, but attendance did not vary. It was packed and jammed houses from the first performance to the last. The band boys find "Pete" (L. A. Peterson), our old drummer, with his legs crossed on a tailor's bench here, he having said adieu to the charms of the white tents and red wagons. On Monday night the Post-Dispatch presented its newsboys with two thousand circus tickets which the great newspaper had bought at the ticket wagon at the regular rates. The boys had a high old time. It would be hard to find a more enthusiastic audience.

Thousands of pleasure seekers were surging through the menagerie, Monday night, when a terrible scream came from the north side of the tent. There was a rush in that direction and the crowd was horrified to see the huge mouth of Fatima, the hippopotamus closed on the right hand and arm of William Spencer, her trainer and keeper.

Spencer was feeding the brute big balls of soaked bread by making her open wide her mouth and then thrusting the bread far back into the cavernous opening. Fatima shut her mouth before Spencer could withdraw his hand, and as her jaws came together a woman in the crowd gave vent to the scream.

Fortunately for Spencer, the hippopotamus wedged the trainer's hands and arms between her two big tusks, and he managed to withdraw it when she decided to open her mouth. His wrist and hand were slightly lacerated.

On Tuesday afternoon, just after the big crowd had left the tents, it was discovered that Aguinaldo, the big monkey from the Philippines, was ill. Veterinary Alexander was called and soon arrived with a bottle of aconite, some belledonna, a blister preparation and some of Doctor Delevan's liniment. Aguinaldo was frothing and bleeding at the mouth and shrieking with pain. Presuming that some passer-by had given him some irritating substance, Dr. Alexander called for a stomach pump and applied it. This relieved Aguinaldo and showed the cause of his trouble. In the cage was a thermometer, and attracted by the pretty red fluid it contained, he took it from its hook, broke the glass and swallowed the mercury. The glass cut his moth and the liquid caused pain in another place. On Wednesday night, "Senator," one of the monkey jockey riders, was thrown from his mount and slightly injured. One of the big events in St. Louis during the week was the arrival of the Nashville. Commander Maynard officers and men, were among the enthusiastic thousands who saw the show.

Kansas City, Sunday, May 14 to 16. Kansas City is noted for its heavy grades, and the first band was somewhat leary in getting into the 8-ton wagon. Stump brought the boys back however, and they all rejoiced that the parade was over. The mounted band received much applause. Mr. John M. Griffin, a former "trouper," but who is now practicing medicine at Richmond, Mo., visited his brother Frank S. Griffin. Elmer Pitts, a musician with us in '94 and '96, visited Al. Conlon, and Lew Nichols visited the Bostock show Sunday. Ci E. Goff was visited here by his siter and family from Clinton, Mo. Mark Monroe left to join the Main show. Lot a long distance from the runs to the lot. Weather pleasant.

Topeka, Kan. Wednesday, May 17. This is the capital of the late Allen Sells. The weather here was very pleasant and business tremendous. The Daily State Capital, commenting on the elephants in the parade, paraphrased Kipling's monkey poem thus: "And this is the joyful story told as the twilight fails, When the elephants walked together holding each others' tails."

Junction City, Kan. Thursday, May 18. Prof. Kennedy, band leader and musician from the 6th Cavalry band at Fort Riley, visited our band boys. Our "Daisy" and Mr. Winters, cornet, were late for the train, but caught up before we crossed the divide. Pot gang No. 1 held their first meeting and elected the following officers: Pres., John Rothenbock; Sec., John Coliton; Treas, W. H. Spencer; Iceman, John King. The war show pleases the soldier boys from Fort Riley.

Salina, Kan. Friday, May 19. Prof. Frank Golden, magician and vertriloquist, closed here. A number of soldiers are among the show's visitors. Guy Repasz enjoys a very pleasant visit from his mother and brother.

Hays City, Kan. Saturday, May 20. The noted Western character, Wild Bill, was marshal of this place in its palmy days, when it bore the distinction of being the "toughest" town in the United Staes. On a hillside a short distance from the wardrobe canvas, were the graves of four desperate characters that were killed by Wild Bill, in a street fight, while he was serving as marshal. The place was visited by many. The orchestra leader of our war show and musical director of the crank organ, Mr. T. Augustus Shamrock, was offered a position here to work a corn sheller, but refused.

Denver, Colo. Sunday, May 21 to 23. In the mountains now, and in sight of snow. Show people go out sight-seeing on Sunday afternoon. During the afternoon animal keeper John King had a very narrow escape from the vicious clutches of a leopard. The leopard was chained in a corner of the den. As Mr. King passed the animal the latter made a vicious lunge at him and broke his chain, and in an instant was at the plucky keeper. King pluckily beat off the vicious beast until assistance arrived, and then managed to get out of the den, bearing with him a number of ugly scratches. Mr. Redburn returned to the show after a few days' recreation on the great Kansas plains.

Colorado Springs, Colo. Wednesday, May 24. The lot to-day is in sight of Pike's Peak, with its snow-capped summit. Many of the show people take a hurried drive out to the famous sights within a short distance of this pretty western town. The Garden of the Gods, the Cave of the Winds and other noted mountain scenery are visited with delight and viewed with awe.

Pueblo, Col. Thursday, May 25. Al. Conlon, our popular manager of the war show, is visited by Mr. James Conley, of Louisville, Ky., who is here in search of health. The show grounds here are close to the mineral palace. Sand storm here after the parade. The walk from the runs to the lot was not so far as in '97.

Florence, Col. Friday, May 26. Afternoon only. Plenty of dust here, and the dust seemed to be full of greae. Its peculiarity was that instead of brushing out it brushed in, and three days was hardly long enough to get ride of it. Royal Gorge, by moonlight, was enjoyed by the show people from the car platforms.

Leadville, Col. Saturday, May 27. Admiral Schley, on a tour of the West shook hands with several hundred Leadvilleites from the rear end of his private car here to-day. An apology was made to the admiral for the smallness of the crowd that had come to greet him, and the explanation made that the most of the townspeople had gone to the Ringling Brother's circus, whereupon the admiral remarked that he was glad to see people enjoy themselves; that he would go himself if he could, and requested the committee to tender his regards to the fat lady. Overcoats were in order here. Show people quite busy getting ore specimens. Behind some buildings near the lot were banks of snow. Coldest night of the season. The high altitude was quite a trial on numerous performers, and almost every actor came back from his turn with a shortness of breath. Several people visit friends here playing in a stock company.

Grand Junction, Colo. Monday, May 29. (show 10 a. m.) This was the earliest day in the history of the show as the following program indicates: Breakfast, 5 to 6 a. m. Opening of war show at 7 a. m. Parade at 8 a. m. Side show opening at 9 a. m. Big show began at 10 a. m. The scenery on our trip to Provo, the next stand, included the famous sights of the Grand Canyon, and many of the people stayed up until midnight admiring the grandeur of the mountains and swiftly running streams.

Provo, Utah. tuesday, May 30. Millie Delina Rosa, the bearded lady of the side show, closed here. This is one of the most beautiful towns in the world. Situated in a broad and fertile valley, watered by numerous streams and graced on either side by grand mountains bedecked with snow, Provo presented a picture which was eagerly copied by our kodak brigade.

Salt Lake City, Utah. Wednesday, May 31. Goodale and Chas. Alexander both meet friends from home here. Frank A. Griffin is visited by Mr. and Mrs. Gus Lyons. War show has opposition here. Henderson, Boughons and Rickley invest in kodaks. Among the expert photographers with the show are Mrs. Carroll, Miss Stella Lovenberg and Mrs. Castello. Development of the mystic plates and films is carried on into the small hours of the morning. Many show people visit the tabernacle here and are given a special organ recital by the organist of the Mormon church.

Ogden, Utah. Thursday, June 1. Lot here in the heart of the city. Ralph Breed shakes hands with an old friend. A heavy wind and rain storm prevailed shortly after the matinee performance, but abated before the doors were opened for the night performance.

Logan, Utah. Friday, June 2. This town has a magnificent Mormon temple. It is noticed at the front door that the families are exceedingly large here, as many as twenty children often being seen in one wagon, but family relations have nothing to do with the ticket takers, and every youngster is supplied with the "open sesame" of admission.

Pocatello, Idaho. Saturday, June 3. During the dinner hour at the dining car some of the people witnessed a fierce battle between a large dog and an escaped badger. The badger won the day and all of the Wisconsin boys with the show were pleased. Mr. Kasiska, formerly of Baraboo, visited his many friends with the show, including the Ringling Brothers. A fishing party was organized here, and returned from a twelve-mile trip a big catch of mountain trout.

Boise City, Idaho. Monday, June 5. A long run of 264 miles to this town and a cold rain and snow to break the monotony of the trip. Weather turned nice before noon Sunday. Nearly every one visited the natatorium. The band boys visited the town band rehearsal Sunday evening. Quite a number of the fishermen with the show tried their luck here with indifferent success.

Weiser, Idaho. Tuesday, June 6. Dust enough here to choke anything and everything in creation, and we were glad when the last chariot race at night was run.

Baker City, Ore. Wednesday, June 7. Plenty of dust here. Lot was right next to the runs and cars were handy for supper. The people with the kodaks find pleasure here. Fishing parties composed of show people come back loaded with the finny tribe.

La Grand, Ore. Thursday, June 8. The lot here was situated on a high bluff overlooking the town. Distance in this high altitude is very deceptive. Farm buildings twenty-six miles across the valley can be plainly seen from the show lot, and do not appear to be more than three or four miles away. One can see up and down the valley a combined distance of sixty miles, and every farm and building in this great expanse is in plain view. The people with their kodaks find ample opportunity for their photographic skill.

Pendleton, Ore. Friday,June 9. (Afternoon only) Fine orchards and vineyards here. Quite a railroad center. One of the side show band fell asleep on a baggage truck here and did not awake until the last section had left the town. Indians here are very numerous, and many of them are photographed against their will.

The Dalles, Ore. Saturday, June 10. Ed Miller, who was left at Pendleton, caught up to us Sunday afternoon. Shaw and Breedy catch the two longest fish here that have rewarded the show's fishermen so far this season.

Portland, Ore. Sunday, June 11-13. Al. Conlon and Len Nichols get Chinese gongs for their respective shows. John Hazlewood meets old school friends. Clate Alexander is visited by Frank Flowers, an old band leader. Leondor Brothers, formerly with the world's greatest show, are visitors in the dressing room among their many friends. Tuesday morning Geo. Ganweiler, Balcon, Rickey, Shaw, Lockhart, Breedy and Ross arose at 3 a. m. and enjoyed excellent fishing until noon.

Centralia, Wash. Wednesday, June 14. During the parade the band boys were edified by the following sign on a building: "Centralia Iron Works. Musical Instruments. Repairing a Specialty." Conlon meets old friends here.

Tacoma, Wash. Thursday, June 15. During the preparation for the morning parade here Joe Cluswell, a wardrobe man, was thrown from the top of an open den, where he had been placing flags. The wheels of the cage passed over both of his feet, crushing one of them quite badly. The wound was dressed by a local doctor, who placed the injured member in a plaster cast.

Very hilly, Long Parade. Al. Conlon found Shamrock, the leader of the black top band, looking over an outfit for the Klondike. Lew Jones, bassoon with the show in '95, when Signor Liberati led the Ringling Brothers' band, is located here. The bay here was a beautiful sight from the top of the hill, as the parade passed down toward the town.

New Whatcom, Wash. Saturday, June 17. Show arrived very late, but by tall hustling the afternoon performance was started at 6:15 p. m., and the night show at 9:30. It required close figuring to get everybody off to supper and back again for the second show, but everything worked to perfection, and with characteristic energy and judgment the management turned into profit what could easily have been a lost day's business. The black tents did a land office busines to-day.

North Yakima, Wash. Monday, June 19. (Aft. only) Long Sunday run. Fine mountain scenery. Passed Mount Rainer and could see it nearly all day. The streams were very fine and many wished they had time to cast a line. A. Morgan and John Higney, who missed the train at Seattle, catch us as we again pass through this great western town on our way to North Yakima. Another lot of Indians had their pictures taken here near the war show to-day. Sevral became very indignant, but were finally squared with tickets to the war show, which they said was "heap shoot, no noise, much good."

Walla Walla, Wash. Tuesday, June 20. Formerly a military center, but now only a deserted fort remains. This is a great apple country. Chas. Goff, electrician, is sick, but manages to pull through the day without quitting work.

Colfax, Wash. Wednesday, June 21. Lot between two great mountains. Arrived late. Everybody bought money orders. Postmaster became so excited he didn't know here he was "at," and said it was the biggest business the office had ever done. Marcus Shannon is taking pointers on manipulating the wargraph.

Spokane, Wash. Thursday, June 22. Kodak possessors take the falls here to a finish. Some very fine photos were the result. Bob Buchanan, a one-time circus band leader, and famous as a comedian, visits the show. Al. Conlon meets Minneapolis friends, among them some of the Fifth U. S. cavalry, discharged. Chas. E. Griffin joins the side show here to do magic, ventriloquism and lecturing. Shriners have a big parade after the matinee, for which the Ringling Bros. loan them elephants and camels.

Moscow, Idaho. Friday, June 23. Still in the mountains. Chas. Goff, who has been ill for several days, is worse today and unable to work, so the wargraph is manipulated by Mr. Shannon. Mr. Chas. Ryan assists Ed. Brady in preventing a friend of the latter from being defrauded by a local jeweler. Much alarm is expressed on account of a bad bridge between here and Lewiston.

Lewiston, Idaho. Saturday, June 24. Arrived safely here. Very hot and dusty. Lot on a hill overlooking the town. Cherries cheap and everybody invests. The band walked up and down the hill that led from the lot to the town, and all the boys preferred walking to a chance of flying down the hill on the big band wagon.

Missoula, Mont. Monday, June 26. A long Sunday run of 390 miles to this pretty town. The most beautiful mountain scenery of the entire season, in the opinion of many, was passed by our trains. Chas. E. and Frank S. Griffin visit friends here. A number of negro soldiers take in the war show. Wardrobe top had to be moved on account of disputed ownership of lot.

Anaconda, Mont. Tuesday, June 27. Plenty of smoke here from the big smelters.This is the home of Marcus Daly, the copper king. The weather was fine and business up to the standard.

Butte, Mont. Wednesday, June 28. The air is sulphuric today. Jules Turnour and Geo. Gray visited by their old friend, J. G. Bates, formerly band leader with the Van Amburg show. Solo Cornetist Winters closed here. Mr. James McGovern entertained Mr. and Mrs. Lew Nichols, Helen Mathews, Maude Sims and Bertha Carnihan. They report a most enjoyable time. Al. Conlon and Allie Webb visited by Mr. C. L. Beveridge, of the Montana Wild West Show.

Helena, Mont. Thursday, June 29. Quick show at night on account of threatening wather. Everybody tried to get to the cars first. Fire alarm during the parade in the morning, and the swift fire wagons passed the elephants, cages and mounted band at a hurry-up gait.

Great Falls, Mont. Friday, June 30. This is a fine town on the Missouri river. The weather is beautiful. Balloons are all the rage. Some of the show people lose considerable of their laundry here.

Havre, Mont. Saturday, July 1. (Aft. only) At last we have left the scenes of eternal snow. We are out of the mountains and on the great broad plains again. As there was only one show given here the evening was spent by some of the performers in an impromptu dance. Art. Adair furnished the music on his violin and Meekin called for the quadrilles and germans. The cinders side of the railroad track furnished the ball room floor, and a flicker torch shed its light on the scene.

Devils Lake, N.D. Monday, July 3. A long run to this town, the longest of the season, 548 miles. I. M. Crosby, an old-time side show orator, visited. Black tent crowded all day. We are back into the land of wheat, the world's greatest gold mines.

Grand Forks, N.D. Tuesday, July 4. This was a big day. It was a patriotic day, too. It was two great days in one, circus day and the Fourth of July, a combination hard to beat. Kerry Meagher had all the children with the show lined up and kept up a cannonading until morning. It was a big day for the black tent, and a big day all around.

Crookston, Minn. Wednesday, July 5. Pleasant day to start with. Nice business and everything ran smoothly until the evening performance began. Just as the great spectacle was on a terrific cyclonic storm struck the tent. The force of the wind was tremendous. For a time the great tent, with its mighty ropes, swayed and strained and the quarter poles dance and dangled in the air for a moment, and then struck their bases on the ground. But the force of the wind was too strong, and finally the great expanse of tentage went down. In the meantime the crowd of spectators and the performers and musicians had made a scramble for the outside most of them escaping from the tent before it went down. A few, however still remained inside and several specatators were injured by falling ropes, though none were seriously hurt. All night long the show employes worked to bring order out of the chaos that had been wrought by the storm, and by daylight the show was loaded on the cars.

Fargo, N. Dak. Thursday, July 6. Owing to our late arrival here and the roen condition of the big top and other tents, no attempt was made to give any performance here. The forces of the show, however, were kept busy getting things into shape for the next stand.

Morris, Minn. Saturday, July 7. The weather today is quite chilly. The big top is again in condition, but shows the effects of the Crookston storm. Bertha Carnihan visited by her parents, relatives and friends.

Marshall, Minn. Saturday, July 8. Fine weather here. Nice lot. Last stand for the present in the great state of Minnesota.

Huron, S. Dak. Monday, July 10. Pleasant Sunday run. Arrived in the afternoon on Sunday. At night three storms are distinctly seen, and the wonder is that not one of them strikes us. Fine Monday and real hot circus weather. John Snellan, Ed. Kennedy, Rhoda Royal and Walter Main visit the show.

Watertown, S. Dak. Tuesday, July 11. Fine weather. Fine fishing. Mr. Brooks and Mr. Babcock, famous as the greatest of Watertown's fishermen, as well as great in journalism and the service of Uncle Sam, respectively, show Henry and Alf. T. Ringling where the great pickerel beds in Lake Kampeska are to be found Miss Helen Mathews meets friends.

Aberdeen, S. Dak. Wednesday, July 12. One of the Ringling Bros.' favorite towns and historical for its having been the birthjplace of the Red Wagon weekly in '97. This great weekly was published one consecutive day.

Ortonville, Minn. Thursday, July 13. (afternoon only) Beautiful summer resort town. Fine fishing here and all the philosophers of the show try their luck and get plenty of the finny tribe.

Madison, S. Dak. Friday, July 14. Quite a long run into this town for a Friday stand, 173 miles from Ortonville. Fine weather here and usual Ringling business.

Sioux Falls, S. Dak. Saturday, July 15. Maude Sims, snake charmer, celebrated her 18th birthday and was the recipient of many handsome gifts. After the matinee performance there was considerable excitement on the lot by the prediction that a cyclone was passing to the south of the town. For a time a long funnel-shaped cloud hung low in the horizon. After a while it disappeared. Quite a rain storm came up in the evening, and visitors to the night show waded through mud knee deep.

Mankato, Minn. Monday, July 17. Short run for Sunday to this town. Al. Ringling lived here for a short time over twenty years ago. Mr. Nicholas Julier, uncle of the Ringling Brothers, visited the show here with his family. Several of the show people attend a forest picnic and dance at night.

Blue Earth, Minn. Tuesday, July 18. One of Minnesota's great agricultural towns. Fine weather here and usual big busines.

Albert Lea, Minn. Wednesday, July 19. Plenty of fishing here and everybody indulges in the sport at a fine lake near town. Many strings of fine croppies, bass and pike are secured.

Austin, Minn. Thursday, July 20. Show people remembering the lot used here before on our visit go to old grounds only to find that the show is two miles away on the opposite side of town. Frank A. Griffin is transferred from the side show to the front door as ticket taker.

La Crosse, Wis. Friday, July 21. Back in the old Badger state and the badgers all spruce up and tell of the wonders of Wisconsin. The hoosiers give them a hard argument on this. Sandy lot. Otto Brown, cornetist, visits. Bob Miller, musician joins.

Winona, Minn. Saturday, July 22. Shortest run of the season. Only twenty-five miles from La Crosse. Parade and show, as usual, make a great hit. Straw hats are now general with the show people.

Minneapolis, Minn. Monday, July 24. Show arrived early and the circus folk go out sight-seeing. Lake Harriet, where the Banda Rossa is playing, Minnehaha Falls and White Bear Lake are visited. The cars were transferred Sunday afternoon, and many of the people missed supper in consequence. Clay Lambert, contracting agent, visits show. Fine day Monday and tremendous crowds see the parade and fill the tents both afternoon and night.

St. Paul, Minn. Tuesday, July 25. Threatening weather all day and severe storm during concert at night. The wind came up very suddenly and th big top went down for the third time this season. Geo. Balcom, musician, closed. Lew Nichols presents John Jennings with a gold watch suitably inscribed. John Hazlewood closed on account of sickness of his father.

Litchfield, Minn. Tuesday, July 26. Another great fishing town, and the devotees of the rod and reel take advantage of the opportunity, as the Minnesota towns will soon be a thing of the past for this season. Chief Debro called home to Kendallville, Ind., on account of the death of his foster mother, Mrs. June.

St. Cloud, Minn. Thursday, July 27. The show increases its popularity here by the best that this, the world's greatest, has ever given them. The crowds were immense. Theodore O. Breedy and son George, clarinet and trap drummer, respectively, in the band, visited the former's uncle here, and had a very enjoyable time. Mr. Breedy had not seen his uncle in thirty-eight years, and the reunion was a joyful occasion.

Fergus Falls, Minn. Friday, July 28. Another windy day. The afternoon crowd was entertained with the regular program, in spite of dancing quarter poles, until the hippodrome races, when the intensity of the wind became so great that the audience was dismissed. Some of the band boys and performers thought we were to have a repetition of our Crookston experience, and made a hasty exit. No night show was given.

Little Falls, Minn. Saturday, July 29. First native watermelons of the season seen here. Good lot here and show in on time, thought it was a 114-mile run.

Duluth, Minn. Monday, July 31. A fine Sunday. Big business here as usual. Long parade and long drill to cars. Fine weather Monday, but at night all the weather prophets of the show are out trying to tell whether it's a cyclone or merely a squall from the lake. The storm broke almost at the end of the circus program, and to avoid any possibility of a blow-down, the concert was omitted.

West Superior, Wis. Tuesday, Aug. 1. The kind of railroad runs that suits. Only four miles from Duluth. Another big days' business here makes the ticket wagon groan under the weight. Alf. Arnold, musician in the side show band, closed.

Ashland, Wis. Wednesday, Aug. 2. Fine weather. Long haul to show grounds. The hum of many sawmills greets the caliope here. Alf. Arnold, musician in side show band, closes.

Ironwood, Mich. Thursday, Aug. 3. Plenty of talk here about show lot being over an iron mine. People are afraid that the weight of the tremendous crowds of visitors may cause a cave-in. Superintendent of mines, located near lot, makes a survey and finds that mines are everywhere near lot, but none directly under. The public is reassured by this and big business ensues.

Iron Mountain, Mich. Friday, Aug. 4. Another day of big business, red dust and pleasant weather. Plenty of trout fishing here, and the show folk take it in between afternoon and night shows. Roll Reid joins side show band. Chief Debro, esquimo, returns to show.

Marquette, Mich. Saturday, Aug. 5. Arrived late. Steep hill from runs to lot, a distance of almost two miles. On the lot sand, sand, sand, nothing but sand. Show wagons hard to pull into position and perambulation next to impossible. Performance starts two hours late, but the crowds remain to greet it.

Calumet, Mich. Monday, Aug. 7. Fine cool weather. Arrived on Sunday early in afternoon. Long haul to lot. Great mining town. Several show people descend into the dark regions deep down in the earth, where the copper ore is mined. Many specimens of the red metal carried away as keepsakes.

Hancock, Mich. Tuesday, Aug. 8. A fine day to begin with, but ends in rain. The lot was two miles from the cars, and at night the road was dark and hard to find. No street cars and most of the show people had to walk, as it was impossible for more than five per cent of the crowds to get accommodations in the hacks. The show was late in getting out of town. Chief Debro received from his wife, Princess Sarah, a handsome K. P. charm, and a pipe from Lewis Weiser. It was the chief's birthday.

Ishpeming, Mich. Wednesday, Aug. 9. Long drill to lot. Harry Rickey goes mountain-climbing in search of cars for supper, and finds them after an hour's search. Arrived here late on account of last night's muddy lot, but got in parade and both shows, though afternoon performance was a couple of hours behind time. Bad bridge near lot. Hip. den went into ditch on way to cars at night.

Escanaba, Mich. Thursday, Aug. 10. Fine day. Long haul to lot. Sandy road near lot and sandy lot. At night a severe electric storm, accompanied by strong wind, threatened dire destruction to the big top, and for a time it seemed as if were were in it for a fourth blow-down, but the big tent stood up bravely against the onslaught of the elements, and not a stake was pulled nor a rope broken.

Menominee, Mich. Friday, Aug. 11. Very hot day, and unusually big crowds from both Menominee and Marinette. All day heavy clouds hung over the horizon, and at night marshaled their forces as if preparing to give us another blow, but is was, in the language of one of the boys, "only a bluff." C. U. Cleveland tries to show the band boys the way to the cars, and after several miles drilling finds them three blocks away from the original starting place. The band boys now insist that Cass must either quit snoking, or in future go to the rear.

Wausau, Wis. Saturday, Aug. 12. Arrived late. Long haul to lot. One o'clock parade. Circus starts only a few minutes late. Fine lot here in a magnificent grove. Usual big business. The famous Lester Rose greets us here.

Beaver Dam, Wis. Monday, Aug. 14. On our way to this town we passed within fourteen miles of winter quarters and many of the show people got off the circus train at Kibbourn and drove over to Baraboo to spend Sunday, catching an early Monday morning train for Beaver Dam.

Berlin, Wis. Tuesday, Aug. 15. After the morning meal some brother musician met Geo. Gray about three blocks from the coaches with a whisk broom under his arm. He had started for the lot, intending to trill up on a few new exercises, and thought he had his unbrella instead of the broom. Excused, because his home ws only two days ahead, and the letters were coming fast. Two birthdays were celebrated in the side show today. The happy individuals to receive congratulations were Miss Rose Arcaris and Princess Sarah. Both ladies received many valuable and beautiful presents from their numerous friends.

Oshkosh, Wis. Wednesday, Aug. 16. George Ganweiler, musical director, while descending from the band wagon, fell to the ground, receiving a painful though not serious injury to his right leg. Fine, big business here.

Janesville, Wis. Thursday, Aug. 17. Fine day. Big crowds in town and great crash of visitors at the show. This is the home of Mr. George Gray, solo clarionet, and he was kept busy shaking hands with his many friends. Girtie Platt, fat lady in the side show, is visited by her son Charles.

Monroe, Wis. Friday, Aug. 18. Hot, dusty day. A long haul to the lot. Big creameries here and buttermilk takes precedence of watermelons. The Messrs. Parsons are visited by their parents from Darlington.

Freeport, Ill. Saturday, Aug. 19. Another very hot day. Fine lot near grove. Frank Henry, solo cornet, closed. John Hamilton visits relatives and friends here.

Sterling, Ill. Monday, Aug. 21. Fine town, fine lot, and by the crowds that freet us they think it a fine show. Chas. W. Brasie, side show solicitor, closed. Frank A. Griffin goes back to side show stand. Harry Wheeler, front door ticket taker, joins. S. W. Burroughs, musician, visited by wife.

Princeton, Ill. Tuesday, Aug. 22. Fine weather. Great agricultural town. Big crowds. Chas. Alexander closes to join Alexander and Crimmins U. T. C. Co. Geo. Stout joins.

Kewanee, Ill. Wednesday, Aug 23. Everything lovely here. Not a mishap nor an unpleasant circumstance of any kind. The watermelon seems to be paramount and his blood red sweetness is cut into by everyone.

Macomb, Ill. Thursday, Aug. 24. Bandmaster Geo. Ganweiler is visited by his wife and daughter, who are spending the summer at Quincy, Ill., their former home, they returning to Philadelphia the following day. Business today is a continuation of the avalanche of humanity that each day this season has made its welcome onslaught on our capacity. Ed. Brady visited by friends from Burlington, Iowa.

Monmouth, Ill. Friday, Aug. 25. Fine day. Long haul to lot. Parade makes its usual hit. Mounted band, however, receives even more than the usual ovation.

Davenport, Iowa. Saturday, Aug. 26. Back again on the banks of the great Mississippi river. Geo. Goodale, side show drummer, closes. Messrs. Ross and Rossette visited by friends.

Oskaloosa, Iowa. Monday, Aug. 28. In Mahaska County, where the corn grows to a height rivaling that of our tallest elephant. Numerous Indians on the lot. Chas. and Frank Griffin visited by parents and relatives. Sergeant Al. Conlon comes out in a new uniform and wears his military honors with grace and ease.

Marshalltown, Iowa. Tuesday, Aug. 29. Nice big Iowa town, and in the heart of the corn belt. Big crowds. C. U. Cleveland visited with relatives.

Carroll, Iowa. Wednesday, Aug. 30. That Iowa coal makes a conspicuous smoke was proved today. During the parade the smoke from the calliope was hastily presumed by one of Carroll's townsmen to be the indication of a terrible conflagration, and he speedily sent in an alarm. The fire department responded, but found only a huge bank of smoke extending from the main business street to the show grounds, and some zigzags cut into by the tune of "My Coal Black Lady."

Atlantic, Iowa. Thursday, Aug. 31. Fine day. It was here that the lot was innundated in '97 by the breaking out of a dam several miles away. Every one is anticipating the wedding soon to take place.

Creston, Iowa. Friday, Sept. 1. This city was formerly the home of the ever popular Dick Hunter, contracting agent. The show did a wonderful business here today. Runs wre "right in town."

Red Oak, Iowa. Saturday, Sept. 2. Very hot today. Three new stars are added to the constellation of running hounds. The all-absorbing topic of conversation particularly in the dressing room, is the wedding of John Judge and Miss Connors, which takes place tomorrow.

Omaha, Neb. Monday, Sept. 4. Sunday in Omaha was a big day for the circus people. It ws, however, a still greater one to Mr. John Judge and Miss Sadie Connors, whose wedding took place here. The following from the Clipper of Sept. 16th tells the tale:

Sunday, September 3, was a notable day for the performers with Ringling Brothers' Circus. Two of the most popular among the dressing room people took advantage of the show's visit to Omaha, Neb., to become united in marriage. The contracting parties were John Judge, of the DaComa Family, and Sadie Conners, the hippodrome equestrienne. The ceremony was performed at 10 A. M. by the Rev. Mr. Mackie, at the parsonage of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. and Mrs. Art. Da Coma and Mr. and Mrs. William Howard, of the Howard Trio, stood up with the couple. In the evening the bride and groom held a reception at Odd Fellows' Hall, which was largely attended by friends and associates in the show. At 8:30 the guests sat down to an elaborate wedding supper. Cover were laid for over one hundred. The popularity of the newly married couple was evidenced by the fact that all the members of the firm of Ringling Brothers who were in the city were present, with their families. The business end of the show was also well represented. An impromptu entertainment and dancing followed the supper. It was an enjoyable occasion throughout, and the guests were loth to go, even when the early hours of Monday morning were approaching. The bride and groom were cordially congratulated, and many wishes for their future success and happiness were expressed. This kindly feeling took practical shape in an unusually larage number of very pretty and useful gifts. The most notable were a handsome side saddle, valued at $75, from Otto and Henry Ringling, John Snellen, Charles Ryan, H. Witsenhousen, Spencer Alexander, G. Dunn, Kerry Meagher, Albert Parsons, George Hyer and Press Agent "Doc" Freeman, a box of cigars, with a $50 bill enclosed from the gentlemen's dressing room; black ebony comb and brush, Mr. and Mrs. Lew Nichols; solid silver toilet set, Mr. and Mrs. Al Ringling; handsome jewelled hand bag, Mr. and Mrs. Chas. Ringling; jewelry satchel, Mr. and Mrs. Adair; silk umbrella, with Dresden handle, Mr. and Mrs. Will Howard; night robe and holder, Minnie Fisher; silk wearing apparel, Ada Costello; silk skirt, Rose Da Coma; photograph album, Hajihara Japanese Troupe; solid silver manicure set, sixteen pieces, Lovenberg Family, Nellie Ryland, Julia Lowanda, Emma Shadell, Jessie Leon, Olga Reed, Lizzie Rooney, Allie Sunlin, Millie Turnour, Bertha Dorin, Nettie Carroll, Lulu Baum and Rose Arcaris; gold pen, Rose Hailey; prayer book and clock, Chas. Andress.

Fremont, Neb. Tuesdy, Sept. 5. Another fine day. Lot right near the runs, where Mr. Fay promises to have them each day in the future.

Lincoln, Neb. Wednesday, Sept. 6. The most dusty day of the season, a long parade on account of the streets being blocked preparatory to the street fair. The mounted band looked like a lot of Indians when they came in from parade. Brady & Miller's barber shop closed early in the morning, as dust is hard on razors as well as eyes. War show had to close down on account of being damaged by high wind.

David City, Neb. Thursday, Sept 7. One of the original Ringling towns. Old settler relates the story of Ringling Bros.' hall show playing near here eighteen years ago with a parade band of three mouth-pieces and a bass drum. Another windy day.

York, Neb. Friday, Sept. 8. Talk about hot air. It is made here. It is blown in blasts that county, too. We seem to have come into Nebraska and surprised nature while telling her hot-air tales, for it has been nothing but wind since Omaha, but our big city of tents stands every onslaught of the elements.

Ord, Neb. Saturday, Sept. 9. A long run to this town. Clate Alexander, Albert Crandall and H. Samuel Lockhart go on a hunting trip, driving overland toward Broken Bow. Big game and lots of it doubtless will be the result.

Broken Bow, Neb. Monday, Sept. 11. Plenty of quail and chicken seen during the run to this town. The nimrods return toward evening of Sunday here laden with trophies. Big crowds at the runs here to see the unloading of the show, and still bigger crowds watch the erection of the tents.

Grand Island, Neb. Tuesday, Sept. 12. Fine day. Big crowds. Great side show business. Packed big top. War elephants in parade make a big hit, and patriotic spectacle in main show creates tremendous enthusiasm.

Kearney, Neb. Thursday, Sept. 14. During a ripple of wind while the night show was in progress one of the trombone players dreamed he was in Crookston and made a leap for life, landing on a cornet player's back and scattering music and stands in all directions. He was next seen crawling out from under the seats. A portion of the audience as well as the band saw and appreciated the incident. A country weekly found at the door of the main entrance here with the following: "There is nothing particularly interesting in local news for the present week, and as we are reliably informed that there will be no happenings worth mentioning preceding our next publication day the issue following this number will be omitted to give the editor a chance to harvest his corn and attend to fall plowing."

Red Cloud, Neb. Friday, Sept. 15. Another big day's business and more hot wind.

Norton, Kan. Saturday, Sept. 16. Back in Kansas. First stand in the state since early last speing. Fine day and elegant lot with shady grove and running stream through it. C. U. Cleveland, 1st horn in big band, listens to comment on Kansas grasshoppers, etc., and is presented with bouquets of sunflowers just because he is a resident of this state.

McCook, Neb. Monday, Sept. 18. The Royal Club assembled on Sunday and organized on Monday. The following officers were elected: Steward, Ed Guthrie; chef, Fred King; head waiter, John Hatfield; table finishers, Harry Snyder, Albert Illig, James Hicker; chief scout, J. P. Rafter. Messrs. Parsons, Lockhart, Crandall and Alexander go hunting.

Holdrege, Neb. Tuesday, Sept. 19. Fine day. Usual big Nebraska crowds.

Superior, Neb. Wednesday, Sept. 20. Though we have a run of 106 miles, the show arrives in town early. Our fine big parade makes a tremendous hit as does the show. Packed tent in afternoon and good crowds at night.

Pawnee City, Neb. Thursday, Sept. 21. 115 miles. Francisco Lentini left behing on account of sickness. Zelda slipped on the ladder while ascending a stage in the menagerie, hurting herself quite severely. Mr. Charles Ringling demonstrates that he hasn't forgotten how to play an alto horn by manipulating that instrument in the side show band.

Concordia, Kan. Friday, Sept. 22. 113 miles. Two members of the A. E. O. E. reside here. They show the traveling members a good time after the evening show. C. E. Goff entertains his two sisters and families of this city. The Ringling Brothers' circus train number 1 was wrecked here in '92.

Beloit, Kan. Saturday, Sept. 23. Beautiful day. Fine lot, big crowds and the thousands delighted with the big show.

Hiawatha, Kan. Monday, Sept. 25. 224 miles. U. P. R. R. Miss Rose Arcaris presented Bertha Carnahan with a handsome Nethersole bracelet. Lula Baum, Germany's tattooed venus, took a tumble while climbing a ladder leaning against her stage. Wm. Wren, and old time side show man, with wife and daughter visited.

Seneca, Kan. Tuesday, Sept. 26. The street fair season is upon us. Good times and a feeling of prosperity has put the towns of this and other states in the humor to entertain their visitors. First day of the street fair here canceled by the committee as the circus is considered too strong for opposition.

Marysville, Kan. Wednesday, Sept. 27. No street sprinkler in the town and the dust the worst of the season. If the mounted band looked like Indians at Lincoln they must have looked like clay eaters after this parade. The wind quit a few minutes after supper, but took a fresh start and was so strong that the night show was called off. Long live glorious Kansas.

Fairbury, Neb. Thursday, Sept. 28. Dusty road to lot. Big street fair on here. Cold as Klondike at night. The Hebron band is playing for the street fair. Clate Alexander was once a member of this band. Fine day, but the usual strong wind. Geo. Stout remained in car today on account of sickness. Elephant men had quite a time getting Baldy into car here at night.

Smith Center, Kan. Friday, Sept. 29. The red, red watermelon was stabbed to the heart here in endless number. We will soon need a physician with the show if the watermelon crop continues to hold out.

Manhattan, Kan. Saturday, Sept. 30. Showed here in '99 without a top. The previous day at Ellsworth the big top was taken hold of by the wind and torn to pieces. Dr. W. W. Freeman, press agent, closed today to re-enter the dramatic field. The genial doctor was presented as a token of the esteem in chich he is held, with an elegant cane and umbrella. Chas. Andress made the presentation speech.

Lincoln, Kan. Monday, Oct. 2. Section No. 3 was delayed ten hours on account of an accident to one of the elephant cars. Two years ago an elephant car broke down as we were going into Manhattan, while the accident occurred this time as we were leaving.

Great Bend, Kan. Tuesday, Oct. 3. This was Uncle John Hamilton's birthday, and the veteran door-keeper of the side show among other useful and ornamental gifts was presented with a kiss by each lady in the side show. This is the former home of Chas. Andress. Mr. Delevan finds a detective for Chas. Ryan's inspection.

Stafford, Kan. Wednesday, Oct. 4. 90 miles. A., T. & S. F. R. R. Lieut. Carl Brown, the "seared and scarred" veteran of Coxey's army is encomped near our lot today. He has a minature log cabin on wheels on which is inscribed such mottoes as: "Sovereign Citizens U. S.A.," "On to Washington," Down the Trusts or the Trusts will down the People," "The Man who got on the Grass," etc. How the poor trusts must tremble when they see him coming. During the parade here Fred Miller's horse stepped through a culvert. Mr. Miller was thrown from his mount, but not seriously injured.

Hutchinson, Kas. Thursday, Oct. 5. Fine day and packed, jammed, suffocatingly big business. Transferring of cars caused confusion in finding diner. Two farmers during the show at night started to dance on the hippodrome track. One of them easily succumbed to the influence of a lady, who led him by the ear back to the seats.

Anthony, Kan. Friday, Oct. 6. The band boys were grieved to learn by telegram of the death of Frank York, formerly solo cornet with the show. Suitable telegrams of condolence were sent to Fred York, brother of the deceased. Last stand for the present in the Sun Flower state.

Blackwell, Okla. Saturday, Oct. 7. First stand in Oklahoma. Big biz. Hot weather. Plenty of dust. Only one bath tub in the town, and many left in the rush without a bath. After the night show hot tamales and chili were all the rage.

Hennessey, Okla. Monday, Oct. 9. Very hot and dusty and a gale that makes us feel sorry Columbia and Shamrock can't have it. War show tent is blown down at about 1:30 p. m. Everything else weathers the gale. A school teacher from a small town near here interrogates the hippopotamus keeper for the benefit of her zoology class and the following conversation takes place: School teacher: "Where did you capture that hippopotamus?" Keeper: In the Baraboo river." School teacher: "Where, pray, is the Baraboo river?" Keeper: "It is a large body of water that flows through the vast territory of Sauk." School teacher: "How did you capture him?" Keeper: "Hips cannot see by moonlight, therefore they manage to do their foraging before the moon rises or after it has set. Sometimes they wander so far awaay from the water that the moon comes out on them before they can return. They are then absolutely helpless and fall an easy prey to their captors, who chain and rope the unlucky river horse and put a bandage over his eyes so that he remains under the impression that the moon is still shining long after it is set and is securely enclosed in a stout box before the bandage is removed."

Wellington, Kan. Tuesday, Oct. 10. Wind still howing today, but goes down somewhat at sunset. Very hot weather. Dr. Kelley, who is visiting the show as a guest of the Ringling Bros., takes in the packing up scenes after the night performance and marvels at the speed with which the big tents are taken down.

Arkansas City, Kan. Wednesday, Oct. 11. Strong wind with plenty of heat in it still blowing. Dr. Kelley, who has been visiting, bids good bye to his many friends and takes the 8 p. m. train for Chicago.

Guthrie, Okla. Thursday, Oct. 12. The capital of this territory. Weather is still windy and very hot. A deep red clay beaten by travel and blown by the winds into a fine powder fills the air and makes existence almost intolerable, but the natives, unmindful of this discomfort, pack the streets of Guthrie and fill the tents of the big show.

Purcell, Ind. Ter. Friday, Oct. 13. In "The Nation" and everybody looks for crowds of red men, but even in this last resting place of the original American the pale faces outnumber their copper-colored brethren. Steep hill from the runs to the town and to the lot. Wind, red dust and hot weather all day, rain at night.

Ardmore, Ind. Ter. Saturday, Oct. 14. More Indians today and better weather. The sight of cotton here reminds us that we are moving southward.

Howard, Kan. Monday Oct. 16. Long run through Indian territory and Oklahoma. The nimrods of the show try their skill on some of the game during a few long stops.

Iola, Kan. Tuesday, Oct. 17. Short haul to lot. Fine weather. Big crowds and lots of enthusiasm during parade, war show, side show and big show. The crowds seemed to take in everything and few even missed the concert.

Coffeyville, Kan. Wednesday, Oct. 18. This town is noted for its fight on a band of outlaws several years ago, and it proved today its equal recognition as a great show town, but then all towns are great show towns for the World's Greatest.

Parsons, Kan. Thursday, Oct. 19. Everybody punning at our popular manager of privileges, Mr. A. E. Parsons, and he returns Fred Madison's witticisms by reciting the fact that once upon a time in Chicago the latter answered "What" when the street car conductor call out the name of the next street north of Monroe.

Ft. Scott, Kan. Friday, Oct. 20.

Pittsburg, Kan. Saturday, Oct. 21. This is the greatest mining town in Kansas. Crowds here big and enthusiastic.

De Soto, Mo. Monday, Oct. 23. This is one of the two towns that bridge our route from the land of corn to the land of cotton. Fine weather and big crowds here today.

Dexter, Mo. Tuesday, Oct. 24. Afternoon only.

Union City, Tenn. Wednesday, Oct. 25. Mr. Geo. Ade, famous as the author of "Artie," "Fables in Slang," humorist, author, journalist and good fellow withal, joins the show here for a few weeks' visit as the guest of the Ringling Brothers.

Jackson, Tenn. Thursday, October 26.

Tupelo, Miss. Friday, Oct. 27.

Aberdeen, Miss. Saturday, Oct. 28.

Sunday

Mobile, Ala. Monday, Oct 30.

Meridan, Miss. Tuesday, Oct. 31.

Columbus, Miss. Wednesday, Nov. 1.

Tuscaloosa, Ala. Thursday,Nov. 2.

Selma, Ala. Friday, Nov. 3.

Montgomery, Ala. Saturday, Nov. 4.

Sunday

Birmingham, Ala. Monday Nov. 6.

Anniston, Ala. Tuesday, Nov. 7.

Gadsden, Ala. Wednesday, Nov. 8.

Chattanooga, Tenn. Thursday, Nov. 9.

Huntsville, Ala. Friday, Nov. 10.

Decatur, Ala. Saturday, Nov. 11.

Sunday

Florence, Ala. Monday Nov. 13.

Corinth, Miss. Tuesday, Nov. 14.

Kosciusko, Miss. Wednesday, Nov. 15.

Clarksdale, Miss. Thursday, Nov. 16.

Greenville, Miss. Friday, Nov. 17.

Vicksburg, Miss. Saturday, Nov. 18.

New Orleans, La. Monday, Nov 20.

New Orleans, La. Tuesday, Nov. 21.

New Orleans, La. Wednesday, Nov. 22.

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