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Message Archive: Messages 1 - 50



50. Herschel Allen, December 30, 2003 - Hello. I have a picture of a sword swallower from a travelling circus in Pennsylvania dated 1920 and would like to do a report on him for school. Does anyone have information on him or travelling circuses in Pennsylvania during that time? Thanks, Sam Leuch, Samleuch@wmconnect.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: March 03, 2004 - I read your post on the Circus Message Board. Do you have a picture of the sword swallower? Have you already found the information you are looking for? Thanks, John Robinson, Sideshowcentral.com, jrobinson@hubwest.com.

    Reply: June 12, 2004 - I saw your message on the Circus Historical Messages about a photo of a sword swallower from the 1920s in PA. As the Executive Director of the Sword Swallowers Association Int'l, I am constantly searching for photos of past sword swallowers to add them to our archives. I would be interested in seeing this photo to see if I can identify him, and if possible, I would love to get a digital copy for our archives. You might be interested in viewing our Historical Hall of Fame page, www.swordswallow.com/halloffame.php. Thanks in advance! Dan Meyer, Halfdan@aol.com, Executive Director, Sword Swallowers Assoc Int'l, Nashville, TN, USA, www.swordswallow.org.



49. Clem Merk, lion tamer, December 30, 2003 - I am trying to find information on an old lion tamer called Clem Merk. I'm afraid I dont have alot of information other than he ended his days travelling with Bob Fossett's circus which was then based in Northampton. I know he was twice married, his second wife being Violet (who I believe was a trapeze artist in her youth). His son from the 1st marriage is David Merk (who trained bears, and his daughter from 2nd marriage is called Clementina (Tina) who is a dancer based in Cromer, England. Any information you could give me would be great. Many thanks. Erika Clayson, erikaclayson@hotmail.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - This question should be directed to the Circus Friends Association of Great Britain, as with all other British circus inquiries. Dr. John Turner's two volumes of Victorian Arena offer some undocumented information on 19th century British performers and owners, and Toole-Stott's six volume bibliography offers some leads, but the best prospects for success are to contact the British CFA. Their publication, King Pole, often has articles of considerable value on British circus topics in the 20th century. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
    Reply: 13 June, 2005 - 'Uncle Clem' was my sister Yvonne fossett's Godfather. Can I tell you anything? Brian Fossett, brianfossett1@aol.com

    Reply: 08 August, 2006 - Hi, my name is Terry Cooney. I lived in Macroom Co. Cork, Ireland as a child. I knew Clem Merk. My dad was bandsman with both Duffys and Fossets circus. He would stop the parade at our house which was very exciting. I heard he had passed away but his wife is still alive. TERESA COONEY, terry.cooney37@btinternet.com

    Reply: 09 August, 2006 - My mother now 93 tells me Clem worked with my dad in Belfast during the war. Terry, terry.cooney37@btinternet.com

    Reply: 28 August, 2006 - No response to my Clem Merk message. Would love to hear from any circus fans. Travelled with John Duffys circus as a child. One of the acts was the armless wonder and his beautiful wife. Terry

    Reply: 29 August, 2006 - A foto of Clem Merk you can find on ww.circusmuseum.nl/eng Type "merk" in the search area. Herman Voogd, hvoogd@teylersmuseum.nl

    Reply: 30 May 2007 - Hello all, Thank you for your responses. I didn’t check for ages because Gloria (married to Clem’s son Dave) found some lovely information and passed it on… I think the word got around that I was asking. So thank you. The reason I asked is because I am the mother of Reece (16) and Abigail Merk (12) (Clem’s great-great grand-children), and I wanted them to have some history. Reece was only young when he died and I was pregnant with Abi. Would you mind if I kept your email addresses for them, so they may be able to contact you in the future? Erika Clayson


48. Recording of King Bros. Steam Calliope, December 29, 2003 - In a recent batch of old 78 rpm records that I purchased, there were two unusual records. On was a homemade record of steam calliope tunes. The second record was produced by Carnival Record Co. and the label is "Steam Calliope King Bros. Circus". The record number is 22A and 22B. The front side is titled "The Circus Parade" and has an announcer talking about the circus parade for the King Bros. circus and you can hear the steam calliope as it comes down the street. You can also hear the crowd in the background. The second side has four tunes: This House is Haunted, Carnival of Venice, Theres a Tavern, and Silver Moon. This record has a pencil mark saying it is a 33 1/3 record. Plays correctly at 33 1/3 but had to use the 78 rpm stylus. Not sure of its age, but probably the 50s. The label is pretty crude. Most have been sold by the circus. Just wondering if you have any clues. Looks like the King circus was active till sometime in the 80s by your site. Not sure when they retired the steam calliope or what happened to it.
     If anyone has any information, I would appreciate hearing from them. If needed, I could scan or photograph the record and email a picture. Not sure what to do with this record. I collect model and toy steam engines (little ones) and old windup phonographs, among other things. Regards, Carl Swanstrom, cswans@ix.netcom.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - These records were made by an unknown party sometime before the 1956 failure of Floyd and Howard King's King Bros. Circus. The instrument on the recording is a modified 32-whistle Nichol steam calliope, mounted in the ex-1902 Gentry Bros. steam calliope wagon. The player may have been E. Deacon Albright, but it could also have been someone else, depending upon the year. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
    Reply: January 26, 2004 - Dear Mr. Swanstrom, My name is Ned Albright, Grandson of E. Deacon Albright. My grandfather past away in 1949 just a few months before I was born. I have been searching for sometime for any possible recording of my Grandfather's playing. Fred Dahlinger is a friend of our family and has copies of many pictures of and documents about Deacon and the calliopes he played. I was wondering if it would be possible, all at my expense of course, to get a copy of the records you have recorded onto cassette tape (or any recording media you wish). I know it may not be my Grandfather but I can't pass up the chance to get a copy just in case. I was also wondering if the record cover has any possible information that may tell where are when the original recording was done. From records I have, I can track where my Grandfather was performing about each day he was traveling. Please let me know if this would be possible and what the cost would be for your time, tapes, and postage to Newburgh, Indiana. I'll send you all the Mailing address if you reply that your willing to do this. Thanks, Ned, albrightnp@sigecom.net.
    Reply: 29-Jan-05 - I am so happy to have pulled up some history of the King Bros. Circus !!! I just bought this new DELL PC. In testing the wonders of it, I looked for the King Bros. Show that I was with when I was 17 years old (for 6 months). Amazing! I played the clarinet in the band and the Calliope was right in back of me. The bandleader played trumpet(cornet) and told stories of when Harry James and his family was with the show. He said that when Harry was small, he was billed as "The World's Smallest Contortionist" - and Harry James had very long blond hair down to his waist (his mother in the show never cut his hair). I cannot remember the Leader's name - "Skinny?" a very fine cornetist. Can you send me any other information on this show please? I joined at Brattleboro, Vt. and stayed with it (in sleeping trailers - the largest Truck Show at the time) leaving at the end of the Season in New Orleans. The show wintered in Sarasota, Fl. I have been an orchestra leader most of my life in Lake Tahoe - Reno - Las Vegas - Palm Beach (played for JFK many times). Recently, my own radio show in Fla. "Claude Kelly's Bandstand". I represented the USA playing for the United States Information Agency through South America and Europe "Passport to Jazz." Please let me hear from you when you have time. The Circus was a very special time in my life. Thank you, Claude Kelly, my hobby is HamRadio, Hamsaxman@AOL.com.

    Reply: 09 Sep 2007 - Hello Carl: What did you end up doing with this record? I was fortunate to find an old box of 7 Circus Music Records dated 1955 and there was a covering letter with them. It seems that The small company that made records of the Kings Bros. Circus Steam Calliope and other Circus Band Wagon music, (Custom Record Co., Manufacturers of Records with A Purpose, Springfield, Ill.) had an explosion in their small plant that put them out of business back in July of 1955 and these 7 records were all that were left. This box of records was sent to Bill's Emporiumm 393 Main Street, Holyoke, Mass. with the covering letter that says:

    "Dear Sir: I am sorry for the delay, but we have had an explosion, destroying our small plant. The records we have sent you are all the variety we have, and I don't believe we will be back in business again. The two Steam Calliope records will surely be collectors items as they were the only records made of the King Calliope. Sorry, I Am..." Signed by a name I can't make out. There is also a copy of a page from The Billboard Magazine, dated October 22, 1955, with an article "OLD STEAM CALLIOPE IS WHEEZING AGAIN". This article is about the demand for steam calliops for all types of gatherings. It mentions research into the history of the calliope done by Alex P. Clark, Robert Loeffler, elephant trainer W. H. Woodcock, George Chindahl and Richard Conover. Very interesting. I buy and sell items on Ebay, and I will probably be listing this rare old box of records on my Ebay site, electrical-collectibles, and am hoping that anyone who is interested in, or collects this kind of vintage Circus music will be able to get a chance to see my listing and bid on these. Hopefully they will end up in the hands of somebody who will really appreciate them. Jane Ralston, East Woodstock, Ct. jralston1009@sbcglobal.net



47. Hagenbeck Wallace Circus, December 28, 2003 - I have acquired a photograph of the Hagenbeck Wallace circus performers. It measures 8" x 46." The photographer mark says Photo Craft, Detroit (I think), that part of the photo is faded. I received it from the heirs of Mr. James Dugger who was a contortionist with the circus. I also have sheet of small photos of Mr. Dugger doing various contortionist positions. The date is 1922. I assume the photo was made in Detroit. Mr. Dugger left the circus, after 5 years and married a local girl in 1925. He owned a china shop. He died at age 93 in 1988. I was wondering if anyone was interested in the history of the Hagenbeck Wallace Circus and might be interested in seeing these photos. I will scan the sheet of small photos and send it as an attachment. Thank you, Wayne Hartman, Tennessee, TALLEY210@aol.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - Circus World Museum would be interested to see the 1922 photo.
    Reply: February 2004 - I saw your message on the Circus History Board, and I´m interested in the picture! Isn´t it amazing, its always the contortionists who live to be so old, I´ve never been able to figure out why. Yours, Natasha Gerson, Amsterdam, Holland, nani@xs4all.nl.
    Reply: February 2004 - We would be interested in seeing the photos of James Dugger. The Hagenbeck-Wallace winter quarters was here in Peru during the years Ben Wallace and the American Circus Corporation owned it. Mildred Kopis Curator/Director Miami County Museum 51 No. Broadway Peru, IN 46970, admin@miamicountymuseum.com.
    Reply: September 24, 2004 - I would love to see your photo's as my Grandfather (Texas Ted Lewis) was on the Hagenbeck Wallace Circus & I seek all the info I can. Thanks, Henry Dubrawsky Jr, HD15218@webtv.net.
    Reply: November 12, 2004 - I would be interested in seeing the photo as my husband's grandmother was part of a circus in Indiana at that time. Her son said she was a bareback rider. Thanks! Nona McGaa, mcmome@aol.com.

    Reply: 24 October, 2006 - Dear Wayne, If that is the photo I think it is, a group photo with a giant at center, I would LOVE to see it. How can we do this? Best wishes, Larry from Chicago, LPW2000@comcast.net

    Reply: 27 Dec 2007 - I would love to see the picture of Mr.Dugger if you don't mind scanning one to me. Thank you. Francis M.Dugger, francisdugger@sbcglobal.net


46. 1964 CHS Bandwagon Story, December 20, 2003 - I'm looking for a story from 1964 Bandwagon. It is Jacob's, Terrell, Cole Bros. Quarters, Pfening Jr., Fred D., July-Aug. 1964. I hope someone can help me find a copy of it. I'm trying to put the history of the place together for a book. I'm also looking for a photo taken there. Also looking for story, photos taken at the Kelly Circus Farm. Thanks, DAVPOW@AOL.COM. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - If this back issue is not available from Bandwagon Back Issues, 2515 Dorset Rd., Columbus, OH 43221, photocopies can be purchased from Circus World Museum's Library. Robert L. Parkinson Library and Research Center, 550 Water Street, Baraboo, WI 53913-2597. Phone 608-356-8341, Fax 608-355-7959. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.


45. Sells-Floto 1915, Wild Cat Acts?, December 20, 2003 - Does anyone know if Sells-Floto had wild cat acts (or any wild animal acts) as early as 1915? If so, who were the performers/trainers of that time? Volney Phifer, performed with a number of circuses beginning in 1915. I have photos of Volney performing with Snyder the Elephant with Sells-Floto in 1920. (This must have been shortly before Snyder went rogue and was destroyed.) But probably Volney began as a wild cat trainer/performer. I'm trying to determine whether he might have begun his career with Sells-Floto, or whether he started with Al G. Barnes in 1915. (I know that he did work for Barnes at some point.) Thanks for any illuminating info! Regards, Diane Rains, punchandjudydog@comcast.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - Billboard, March 26, 1932, page 123 reports on Phifer's marriage. He's characterized as head keeper of the Forest Park Zoo, St. Louis, in the February 7, 1925 issue. I found no other listing for him in the name finding aid. Reviewing Gordon Carver's series on Sells-Floto in Bandwagon might prove helpful, as would review of Chang Reynolds series on the Al G. Barnes outfit, as well as a scanning of Billboard for the various years in question. The Bandwagon articles should be listed in the website index. There is no existing primary documentation, in the form of employee documentation, for Sells-Floto during the years of interest. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
    Reply: 05 June, 2005 - Volney Phifer started his act in vaudeville with his wife snookey. She played trumpet in his mouth. His son ellias should have all the info and the many pictures Uncle Volney kept that and the original touring hearst that held leo was kept in the museun at the farm. I am his niece and spent many wonderful summers working on the farm. melynda@zoominternet.net

    Reply: 11 September, 2006 - Melynda, I have just come across your June 2005 reply. I wish I had found your post sooner! I would love to chat or correspond with you about Volney. I, too, am his niece - his grand-niece. My mother's mother was his sister, Thelma. Though I visited Uncle Volney's wild animal farm only occasionally, he was a strong influence in my life. (I too am a performer, and I have dabbled in animal training.) For several years, I have been gathering information about Volney's life, and I'm writing his biography. Are you one of the Page family? I spoke with with Alma several years ago and learned a lot about the Page Family Band and their vaudeville show, and Eloise and Volney's life together, but I still have many questions! Let's talk! Best regards, Diane Rains


44. Ringling Bros. Trunks & Hat, December 9, 2003 - PBS television series Antiques Roadshow. An appraisal of a Ringling Bros. Trunks & Hat will be on their January 12, 2004 episode. J. Griffin.


43. Reid - Wall of Death, Hudson - tightrope, December 5, 2003 - I am trying to find some information regarding Joe Reid, Wall of Death rider, and Mary Ann Hudson who was a tightrope walker. I believe they toured with Pinder's in the (I think) 30's. Can anyone help me find any information on them? Thanks, Annie Smith, Annie.Smith@gstt.sthames.nhs.uk. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - This question should be directed to the Circus Friends Association of Great Britain, as with all other British circus inquiries. Dr. John Turner's two volumes of Victorian Arena offer some undocumented information on 19th century British performers and owners, and Toole-Stott's six volume bibliography offers some leads, but the best prospects for success are to contact the British CFA. Their publication, King Pole, often has articles of considerable value on British circus topics in the 20th century.
         The Wall of death act is typically a fairground act and not of circus application. The best contact on that issue would be Dr. Vanessa Toulmin at the National Fairground Archive at Sheffield University. They maintain a website. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.


42. Early Circuses, December 3, 2003 - I am doing research on early circuses. I would like to know what titles you recommend for the history of the circus before 1900. I would like to know how the circus traveled, took care of the animals, carried the food for the animals and how they moved the entire circus across the plains. Any suggestions would be most appreciated. Thank You, Judith Biddleman, ladyb@tele-net.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - For the period of 1793-1860, the best resource is Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860, in addition to his Traveling Showmen. That is supplemented for the Civil War years by William L. Slout's Clowns and Cannons. There's then a variety of books for the last several decades of the century. CWM (Circus World Museum) has a loan book program and we can suggest several titles if they contact us. The specific topics of interest to the reader would alter the titles recommended. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.


41. Richard(s) Brothers, December 1, 2003 - Is there a Richard or Richard(s) Brothers circus listed? They also played under the name The King Brother's Circus when used by Franco Richards Jr. Kinnie Wagner worked for them for awhile. The circus was supposedly small, but traveled throughout the US and Canada. Winter grounds in Texas. Thank you for helping me with my Circus Research. Michelle Turner, Doodlebug138@cs.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: December 2, 2003 - Franco Richards, Jr. owned and operated a show he called "King Brothers" and it was operational in the 40s and 50s. He began showing on his own, separate from the other family shows, after the death of his father in 1936 and based for a time out of Pensacola, FL. This family tradition began in the 1880s with his grandfather, Andrew Jackson "Jack" Richards. In the late 1800s control passed to some of the sons of Jack and was known as Richard(s) Brothers. They were Henry Birdo Richards, Franco D. Richards, Sr. and Wesley Cisco Richards. The tradition remained a part of the family through the 1950s. (Some photos are available.) cdr1@ev1.net
    Reply: December 2, 2003 - Found in the Directory of American Circuses 1793-2000, Robert L. Parkinson, Baraboo, WI: Circus World Museum, 2002, pp. 332-333. F. Richards & Sons Circus, 1923. Richards Bros. Circus, 1911-1928, 1954, H. B. Richards, W. C. Richards, F. Richards, proprietors 1911-1928. Ring Bros. Circus, 1953-1957, Franco Richards, proprietor.
    Reply: January 5, 2004 - The show that Franco Richards Jr. owned was Ring brothers circus. I was a kid on that show in 1954. My father had the music on there, who was Tex Maynard, wife Marcy Maynard. My brother Gaylord Maynard could give you more information. Let me know if I could be of help. Roberta Thornburg, rthorn@sccoast.net.

    Reply: 18 February, 2006 - Just happened upon the website regarding circus that Kinnie Wagner was in. He was my grandmother's brother. Her name was Mary Darinda Wagner later changed to Rinda Wagner and at her death Rinda Tunnell. My sister is named Rinda after her. I live in Lexington, Kentucky. Where do you live? My name is Elizabeth Griffin. My dad was Jay Griffin. This Kinnie stuff is too interesting isn't it? lizg@donaldandco.com

    Reply: 17 Jan 2008 - Doing a good job, ancestry is good, my uncle. kind, caring boy, and, man, the trouble he got into, will live in our history for as long as any one read the junk, written about him. He was my mom's brother. God rest his soul, hers, and, all my siblings. Apparently, someone has bought the past whispers newspapers, which sold, and, crucified a family history. Thanks for keeping this story, you could have written about the kindness, laughter, and, a boy to man, who stood tall, got into trouble, I am his younger sister's daughter, last of Ollie's offsprings, By the way, Mary Dorinda, aka aunt Rinda, She was marvelous. I see on your site someone named Elza, who says she is a relative. Strange how people do not know each other, I can tell one and all, Kinnie, my mom, and, aunt Rinda, who had a daughter, did move to Lexington, She had a son, George Doodger Tunnell. have tried to find him for years. Thanks to the circus people,for being one of the better part of unk Kinnie's life. At least, old Funeral Wagon, the horse, learned to respect a young boy. Thanks again, Bj@Chartertn.net. Your history of making people have fun, gave him the only chance he had. Rough as it was on a 14 year old boy, your article is greatly appreciated for not only circus history, but, for the hardships he was to live through later. Again thanks. bj pierson @chartertn.net and, my nephew who has put in a lot of work in looking into this. I honor him, also. family should stick together, whether cirucus or biological. His site should be on, but, I will have to get his permission to give out his site. Which he probably already has. Thanks to John

    Reply: 24 Jan 2008 - I am not with the circus, but, since I was checking this site, to thank a guy named Tex, who helped my uncle Kinnie Wagner, age 14, learn the ropes, box, etc. because he had a son at home the same age. Which kept Kinnie alive, and, the kindness, shown to him, stayed with him. Until the trouble with the sheriff who was running moonshine, books, newspaper articles etc. were written, still are being, internationally about my uncle. I want to thank Tex, or his descendants, and the Richard Bros. circus. for helping a young boy, survive, and learn. The rest is history. In memory of my brother who was just buried at Arlington. I thank you. BJ Cunningham Pierson
          My uncle Kinnie Wagner, known as the Texas Kid, who rode Funeral Wagon, the horse, and, for a guy named Tex, who taught him to box, if he is still alive. Thanks for giving a 14 year old kid, who left home, to find a place to work, sleep, because of a bed wetting problem. My grandfather remarried, and Kinnie who was only six, three families are hard to mesh. Thank you for giving him the chance to learn grow, and, treating him like one of you, This is especially to Tex, I can not remember the straw boss's name. Kinnie, who rode funeral wagon, the wildest horse, was just a kid. He left home, thinking he would solve the problem of personal problems within the family. I am his little sister's daughter. the only one left. Your treatment of him, gave him hope, and, although later, he got into trouble. Which is documented in southern folk lore. He was quite an honest boy, who learned to be a man of 16, when he left the Richards Bros circus. This is history, but if any one has any stories on the Texas Kid. He used Bob wagner, he loved the lights, hard work, and, the circus people. Thanks again to Tex, wish I had his last name. Tex had a son back home, Kinnie's age, so, he taught him the skills, to ride, box, and, the rest is history, Unk Kinnie passed in 1958. You will read lot of things from the old newspapers, which were created to sell newspapers. He was an honest boy, and, one incident, change his life forever. Thank you again. there are books about him, he never broke a promise in his life. Thanks Tex, and, Richards Bros circus. you helped him survive as long as he did, he was only 14 years of age. I promised my brother who was buried in Arlington cemetary, along with the other brave souls who fought and died for our country. I promised him, on his death bed, I would try to right some of the stupid things the newspapers wrote about Kinnie. My whole family is gone, so, I am grateful to leave you with this. You actually helped him. The stories are starting again, and, only I have the true copy of what happened. My promise to my brother is going to be kept. Ret. Col. 3 wars, and, my cousins, who fought and died for our country. You brought joy to some of them. B J Cunningham Pierson

    Reply: 17 Feb 2008 - Want to thank you for the Kinnie Wagner, who as a kid, joined you, cleaned stables, a guy named Tex, taught him how to handle the horses, and, he finally found a bed, where he would not wet at night. He was known as the Texas Kid, used Bob Wagner from Texas, but, he did not know a ranch from a wrench, you all helped him. Thanks especially to Tex, if he or his family is still alive. I am Kinnie niece. He became infamous later, but, without Tex's help and, the circus, he would have died long before he turned 15. He was only 14 at the time. You gave him skills, and, straw boss, I can not remember his name, finally let Kinnie ride Funeral Wagon, it was almost his death once again. He was a farm boy, who left to ease problems with bed wetting, and, drove mule team, the bright lights of your circus, gave him hope. So, he went with you. If any of you know what happened to Tex, or his family, I would appreciate it. Uou were kinder than life became later, think they called the horse Funeral Wagon, he knew he had to stop or the horse would have not been your major draw. He appreciated it for the rest of his life. It is in a book written about him later. Thank you so much. Betty Pierson, greenhornet935@chartertn.net, hope this gets to someone who knew him, it was prior to 1929. Thanks again, you have made a lot of people happy, the crowd and, he was happy working with the circus.

    Reply: 16 Mar 2008 - Am looking for anyone who worked with Richards Bros. My uncle Kinnie Wagner, was a mere boy, who left home, at 14 years of age, when you came to Va. where he lived, with 3 families, my grandmother had passed, when he was 6 years of age, my mother, was barely 3 years of age. My grandfather remarried, a lady with children, and, with Kinnie or Kenny who was known as Bob Wagner, from the Wagner ranch in Texas, he was just a kid finding a place to find a bed to sleep on without his bed wetting problem. Not because he was my mother's brother, he had experience only in delivering mail, via horse, in Va. Want to thank a guy who was with the Richards Brothers circus, for, teaching him how to clean stables, and, Dr. him when someone hit him on the head, he had only worked on the farm. and, shot game for the family table. Tex had a young son, Kinnie's age, and, thought he should help him. He taught him to box, hold the horses for the roustabouts. He finally got to ride a horse called funeral wagon. He was a gentle boy, but, he stuck it out, and, had enough sense to not break the main draw. this happened in texas, I think. I am the only surviving one of my mother's children, they have all passed. including my wonderful mother. Uncle Kinnie passed in 1958, he later on, after he left the circus, homesick, and, did not want to get into trouble. Think they called the horse he was 16, by then he was going back home to see his family, life was hard, but, going thru Mississippi, the sheriff, arrested him, for a watch he did not steal, he was never charged, so, one day, he told the sheriff, who he had been running moonshine for, if you do not charge me, I am leaving, the door was opened, he went to a friend. The sheriff had Kinnie hold for him, amazingly enough, my uncle, became wanted dead or alive. the sheriff, knew he knew too much on what the sheriff was doing. so, they shot the door off, Kinnie had no shoes on. There are thousand of articles past whispers, I can tell you, through research, and, living it all my life, from day one. Not because I did not know. He shot back, he had only had a gun for 6 months up until that time. This is probably not what you would think, but, books, folklore, etc. and, as long as he was treated right, he was a model prisoner. He was just a kid who knew too much. There are books, on the market, fbi records, which I promised my brother who fought and died, along with my cousins, during 3 wars. My brother is now lying at Arlington, as a Col. of 3 wars. My cousins, from pvt, to general. The general is lying there as well, flight commander at dan nang. They were just kids, farm boys, but, to continue with this. Would like to thank the circus for being more fair to a young kid, than a sheriff who was running moonshine, with kids, who needed to eat, then, set him up. I have the original story, all documented. My mom was saying good bye to him on the river bank in TN. He did murder anyone, he shot back. cried, the 5 police officers, almost killed my mother, coming in shooting 5 ways. Am sure some of you have had hard times, but just want to tell you thanks for the help. He never stole anything except a pie, a lady had cooling on the window shelf, he came back and apologized, this is all documented, and, J Edgar Hoover, the ten most wanted, they asked him to give up, he did. The officers in tn. came in shooting 5 ways, if he had not pushed my mother down, they would have killed her, they sent hearse to bring back his body, he was only saying good bye, once again, was going to turn himself in, back in ms. and, face what he did. he turned himself into a store keeper after shooting the officers, 2 died, another later. I am absolutely positive of these facts. can prove them in any court, but am sorry the officers died, sure glad my mother did not. She had never harmed a person in her life. The books, by Pete Dykes and Claude Gentry, which went to press 4 editions. Pete dykes wrote covering the trial, just a young man himself. As pug potter. Mr. gentry who was a well published author spent 11 years of his life, documenting everything, unk Kinnie told him. He paid for what he did. Once again he trained the dogs fbi men gave him to entertain prisoners at parchman prison. He was sent to bring prisoners back, dead or alive, he brought them back alive. It seems to have it's way into the hands of someone who has it on the internet for all languages, on dvd, amazon.com through Target. We are sorry, the officers died, what would any of us do, I can honestly tell you, by the actions, we all pulled the trigger that day. None of the past whispers stories, are the truth. The books, are o.k. and, now are selling in every country, in their languge want everyone to know. We never have made a movie of his life, even though the offers were made to my family when they were alive. I have the truest version, which Mr. Gentry gave to me at unk Kinnie's funeral. From boy to man, he grew, did his time, started the thunder road, which now leads to nascar. If any one knows how moonshine flowed back then, he was just delivering, not quite sure you have to make it to deliver it. I stand with pride now, knowing what a wonderful family, I had, and, am quite proud of the way he handeled himself. He was promised parole if he killed two black prisoners, who had escaped and was giving the sheriff trouble. I have all the facts documented. and, on his visits home, he tried to make help with the families of the officers. that fell. The long blue line is a good thing to have, but they have bad apples as well as a kid who shot once, then there was no turning back. Just want this to be on the blog. because you all gave him a chance. He loved life, people and freedom, we all understand that. He never mentioned any name except officals, in the version I have, and the circus, and, especially Tex. for helping him stay alive. Truthfully, he had never ridden a wild horse before. Elizabeth Griffin, if you or Jay are on this, Please contact me, Aunt Rinda, has always been called Rinda shortened, she did move to Lexington, after High Knob. She was always aunt rinda. she opened a nursing care home. She was great, I loved her so much, there were more, but since I am taking a chance doing this, someone keeps putting things in my computer at night, fused. Techs can not find it. I am B cunningham pierson, greenhornet935@chartertn.net. Thanks to the cirucs board. I will not go further into this. Just wanted to thank them. God bless our troops.


40. Eagles - circus train wreck, Ashtabula, Ohio, November 30, 2003 - I am looking for the date and account of the train wreck that lead to the death of ringmaster James Elias Eagles (1859-?). He was once in Robinson's Circus, but may not have been at the time of the wreck. Here is all I have: "[He] worked for Robinson's and later took care of trained circus horses. He was probably a ringmaster, since he was remembered as having worn a swallow-tailed coat and vest. His wife Mary was a bareback rider in the circus. Jim was injured in a circus train wreck at Ashtabula, Ohio, when his collarbone was crushed into the lung. Although he lived for another year and a half, he never fully recovered from the accident, and died at Cincinnati, Ohio." swanson.michael@ieee.org. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - James Eagles is listed as working in "The Stables" in the 1880 Great London Circus route book. That means he took care of horses in the traveling stables of the show. Gil Robinson's book, Old Wagon Show Days (1925) includes Eagles in rosters for 1882 through 1891 and 1893 (last roster offered), always as Boss Hostler. That means he had supervision over all of the men and horses on the John Robinson circus. Jeff Posey and Jack Cottrell preceded him and in 1892 Jake Posey was in his stead. Posey's book and the Robinson book might be checked for further reference.
         Slout's Olympians of the Sawdust Circle does not list James or Mary Eagles, nor is an equestrian by the name of Mary listed in the Robinson book rosters or the name finding aid. A check of the listings of wrecks and found nothing applicable for John Robinson or in the vicinity of Ashtabula, OH. There were many smaller railroad mishaps that never brought notice in the journals. Perhaps collections in the Ashtabula area have reference to the accident. The show played Ashtabula, OH on these dates after 1893 and before 1912, the last year of the Robinson-owned show: June 6, 1900; July 11, 1905; and May 7, 1907. Local Ashtabula newspapers might make mention of the wreck that injured Eagles. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
    Update: January 13, 2004 - Thank you for the reply. It is very helpful. I will check out the Posy book; I assume there is only one written by him. I recently found that Jame Elias Eagles died 30 Mar 1896 Cincinnati, Hamilton County, Ohio, from injuries suffered in a train accident in the fall of 1895 in Ashtabula Ohio. I hope I can find a picture of him in one of the books you mentioned. Michael Swanson
    Reply: 04 August, 2005 - You are probably aware of this, but the train wreck in Ashtabula, Ohio in 1895 also claimed the life of Phillip P. Bliss, who wrote the music to the well known hymn "It Is Well With My Soul", using the words written by Horatio G. Spafford. I found this information at the web site ingeb.org/spiritua/itiswell.html. It mentions that a number of other notable Americans died in this accident. If you have any other information, I'd appreciate your sharing that with me. Thank you - Eliot Evans

    Reply: 28 April 2007 - I am a great-granddaughter of Jack Cottrell who is listed in the article. His full name, as we have it, is John Lawrence Cottrell. According to a census record, he was born in July 1849 in Ohio. A story about him is related in the Book by Pearl Baker "Wild Bunch at Robbers Roost". "Cottrell had joined a circus when he was in his teens and had been badly injured by an elephant, necessitating a silver plate in his skull. He was a big, dark-complexioned man, nice looking, with blue eyes, slightly curly dark brown hair and a prominent nose. He was a fine hand with stock, took good care of his horses and cattle---" Would you possible have any addirtional information in your collections on him. I have been looking for him for years and years, trying to find out who his parents are. Geraldine Gillies Griffin, American Fork, Utah, e-mail: JerGriff8@aol.com


39. First person shot out of a cannon, November 25, 2003 - Does anyone know who the first person was that was shot out of a cannon at the circus? Thanks. Sally, Salrake@aol.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: November 25, 2003 - This act may have first been performed on circuses in 1875. You should take a look at Fred Pfening, Jr.'s Bandwagon articles: "Human Cannonballs," Nov.-Dec. 1976, pp. 4-14; Nov.-Dec. 1978, pp. 4-14. Circus World Museum research library has a file on 'Cannon Acts' (may be under Thrill Acts) and also may be able to supply you with a photocopy of Pfening's articles. Circus World Museum Library, 550 Water Street, Baraboo, WI 53913.
    Reply - Samuel Lockhart: November 29, 2003 - I believe that a Samuel Lockhart was the first person to be shot out of a cannon. I would be interested to know if it is true. Samuel Lockhart was born in Leamington Spa in 1850. George and Samuel Lockhart were clowns acrobats and equestrians. They were sent to Ceylon by the Rosinski Agency after which they had a speciality act using elephants - The 3 Graces and The Cruet. Sam used to take his elephants bathing in the river near the Mill Suspension Bridge in Leamington. He trained the 'Royal Elephants Jock and Jenny and was commanded to exhibit them to the Prince of Wales at Marlborough House and he also appeared before Queen Victoria at Olympia in 1889. I would be grateful for any further information. Many Thanks E. Reeves, EEReev@aol.com.

38. Circus Token - L.B. Lent, November 21, 2003 - I found under my house a copper circus token. 1 and 1/2 inch in diameter. New York circus, 14th street Academy of Music. L.B. Lent director. A woman standing on a horse in the center. Can it be dated? Thank You. David Current, Roanoke Indiana, redoaksawdust@cs.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - One of the standard references on tokens is Russell Rulau, Standard Catalog of United States Tokens 1700-1900 (Krause, 1999). A check of it failed to show a listing for the Lewis B. Lent (1813-1887) item. Many circus tokens are quite rare, but I've seen several examples of the Lent piece. Many years ago there was also an article printed in Hobbies magazine about circus tokens. The piece is likely not solid, but what is known as a shell token.
         Standard biographies of Lent are available in different sources, as are images of the Hippotheatron, which opened in 1864. He was involved with it, according to Slout's Olympians, 1865-1872. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
    Reply: 26 July, 2005 - It would be 1866 or a year or so on either side. Don Wilkey, Australia. I would love to know where I could find details of the members of his troupe. An ancestor of mine, Edward Yeamans, a clown, appeared for him. Can anyone throw light on Edward Yeamans as a comedian or clown in the 1840s in the New York area? dwilkey@optusnet.com.au


37. Clyde Beatty - Cole Bros. 1967/68/69, November 14, 2003 - Does anyone have information or pictures of the Clyde Beatty - Cole Bros. circus blow down in Auburn, NY in either 1967/68/69? I was with them at that time as a prop hand and I know it was in the Auburn Newspaper. dcircusclown@hotmail.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 7, 2004 - The Beatty/Cole event happened July 9, 1968. An article from the Sandusky (Ohio) Register dated July 10, 1968 noted "Circus Ends In Finale Of Terror" The article noted that the elephants had just left the tent and the acrobats were waiting to go on. The rain whipped off Owasco Lake, one of the Finger Lakes, in gusts up to 40 miles per hour. A mighty gust lifted the huge canvas and the aluminum tent poles toppled like matchsticks. The canvas fluttered down on 1,400 of the 2,000 spectators and performers. Some 300 were sitting in a part of the tent that did not collapse. No one was killed, but the local hospitals reported that about 250 were brought in. The hospitals treated 85 and 24 of them were admitted. Sheriff Robert Sponable and some deputies ran to the tent and cut through the fabric in places releasing the people. Everyone was freed within 90 minutes, the sheriff said. Since this was picked up as a UPI story, I would expect that about every major paper picked it up and it should be available in a local library. John Polacsek, Artistofdetroit@aol.com.
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - It would be best for the inquirer to request the Auburn newspaper on interlibrary loan. Then they could examine it directly. CHS member and historian Paul Horsman resides in the area and perhaps he could also offer assistance. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
    Reply: September 24, 2004 - My family (Aunt-Uncle) were on the CBCB show during that era. Henry Dubrawsky Jr, HD15218@webtv.net.

    Reply: 27 September, 2006 - I was actually 2 years old and inside the tent with my aunt when this happened, I have no memory of it though, my aunt still talks about it to me on occasion. I have family in NY still, if you still need info perhaps I could ask someone to check it out at the Auburn, NY. library. Tom Reynolds


36. Gentry Bros. Circus, November 13, 2003 - My name is Thera Knight Smith and my grandfather James Harriman Knight played with the Gentry Band. I have a picture of the band in front of the Bandwagon. I do not know the year (it would be before 1909). If you could give me any information you have regarding this band I would appreciate it. A pamplet or something of that nature. Please let me know if you have any books that are available for sale regarding this show, especially anything about the band. Thera Knight Smith, shiocan51@yahoo.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - If we can see a copy of the image, likely we can bracket the date of the image. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
    Reply: March 28, 2004 - I've been trying to send a pic of Norma Rodgers Knight. We have just received an old photo album full of the Gentry Bros. circus as my son's grandfather Joe Clarke worked for them between 1926 to 30. Thought you could use this information. BAIRETAL@aol.com


35. Ringling Bros./Red Unit/107th Edition/ 1977, November 12, 2003 - I would like to find the exact date and location of an incident which happened during the Ringling Bros. & Barnum & Bailey Circus, 107th Edition in the summer of 1977. Possibly in Englewood, CA during July 19th - Aug.3, 1977 or in Oakland, CA during August 23-30th, in which the circus performer, Daniel Acosta, of the Carrillo Brothers' Tight rope act, fell during one of their performances. This was very serious due to the 42 ft. height with no net. Daniel did survive the incident at that time, but I would like to know the exact date and location of the incident, since there was no record of this event recorded at the Circus World Museum. Thank you for any information you can provide. Sincerely, Theresa Hammill, thaml1@yahoo.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - Pedro Carrillo, Sr. may still be in the circus business. His son is currently with Big Apple Circus and might provide a telephone number. Through networking a conversation with Pedro, Sr. might be arranged. I'm certain that he'll remember the incident. The local newspapers usually cover such accidents and they could also be checked. Often the newspapers can be obtained via interlibrary loan. The library in the city in question might have a clipping file with circus entries, if there was no record there, then the next place to look is the local newspapers. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
    Reply: July 28, 2004 - Were you able to find the information that you requested? If not please let me know as I am sure that I can be a great help to you. Pedro Carrillo is my father and I can reach him much easier than I can my brother Pedro Jr. as he has been in Europe for some time. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you. Sincerely, Ray Carrillo, rcarrillo@HollowayDistributing.com.


34. Straight/Strait, November 12, 2003 - I am interested in finding out some information on E J Straight, one of the circus owners. Can you tell me something about him and which circus he owned? I don't know if I am spelling his name correct or not. It may be E J Strait. Thanks for your help. Fran Cook, FranCookDV@aol.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: November 12, 2003 - William Slout's Olympians, p. 295, there is an E. V. Straight, Proprietor, Straight's, 1891.
    Reply: December 15, 2003 - This person is seeking James E. Strates - the owner of James Strates Shows, a large carnival, in fact the last railroad carnival in the United States. The offices of the show are located in Orlando, Florida. The winter quarters for the train and physical properties is Taft, Florida. The family is Greek and originally from the Elmira area of NY State. The show was started in the 1920's and first called Southern Tier Shows. The show has been playing many of its fairs for over fifty seasons. (Syracuse, N.Y. as an example). Al Stencell, stencell@istar.ca.


33. Circus and Hispanics, November 11, 2003 - I'm writing a story on Circus and Hispanics in the U.S., and I need some info on how many people attend each year circus shows? What percentage are hispanic? Are there more or fewer circuses than before? Thanks in advance, Rafael, RPalacio@OrlandoSentinel.com. Respond to this message


32. Tom Mix Circus, November 8, 2003 - I really enjoyed Fred D. Pfening, Jr.'s article about the TOM MIX CIRCUS. I wasn't able to attend the show when it played Pontiac, MI in 1935, but I did manage to check out the lot until my Dad and I were chased out of the back yard by an irate executive type individual. [article currently online on this website www.circushistory.org/Bandwagon/bw-two.htm] My Dad's cousin worked, for a time, at the GMC TRUCK AND COACH plant in Pontiac Michigan. He reported that Tom Mix had his bus in the factory during the off season for possible repairs or maybe some reworking. At any rate, a fellow was told to test the water tank for leaks. He hooked it to an air compressor to check for escaping air and then promptly forgot what he was supposed ot be doing. He left the work area. The air pressure on the tank built up to such a point that the tank actually exploded and a portion of the bus body was damaged! Needless to say, GMC was a bit embarrassed over this event. Hartland Smith, Birmingham, MI. hartland.smith@sbcglobal.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: February 2004 - The Tom Mix Stagecoach is on display in the Miami County Museum, Peru, Indiana. Mildred Kopis Curator/Director Miami County Museum 51 No. Broadway Peru, IN 46970, admin@miamicountymuseum.com.


31. Matrello Bros. - Ham & Egg Circus 1939, November 5, 3002 - I am looking for an information on the Matrello Bros. - Ham & Egg Circus 1939. If you know of anything please contact me at dhannan@the-wire.com. Thank you. Respond to this message
    Reply: November 7, 2003 - Listed in Bandwagon index is this article: "Ham and Eggs Circus 1939", Borders, Gordon, (Sep-Oct) 1966, p.21. You may be able to purchase a photocopy of the article from Circus World Museum Library, 550 Water Street, Baraboo, WI 53913.


30. Sells Floto 1925, November 6, 2003 - I need the route for Sells Floto 1925 - in particular if they played Moundsville, WV. This would validate the construction date of a theater now being restored there. A picture of the construction also includes a Sells Floto poster in the background. Thank you. John Mowder, www.JohnMowder.com, mowderart@aol.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: November 17, 2003 - In bracketing the possible dates of a circus being in West Virginia/Moundsville, the following information on the Sells-Floto Circus route is from 1922 to 1927.

    The 1922 Sells Floto played at Wheeling, W. Va on April 28.
    The 1923 Sells Floto did not play in West Virginia
    The 1924 Sells Floto Circus played a number of West Virginia dates: Parkersburg W. Va on May 2; Wheeling, W. Va. on May 3; Bluefield, W. Va Aug 25; and Williamson, W. Va. on August 26.
    The 1925 Sells Floto Circus played Fairmont, W. Va. on May 16; Clarksburg W. Va. on May 18; Parkersburg, W. Va. on May 19; Huntington, W. Va. on May 20; Charleston, W. Va. on May 21
    The 1926 Sells Floto Circus played Wheeling W. Va. on May 7
    The 1927 Sells Floto Circus did not play in West Virginia.

    It is most likely that Moundsville was billed as an excursion town where a train would bring prospective customers to a bigger town such as Wheeling. There are a few possible dates for Wheeling, and hopefully the date shows on the circus poster. John Polacsek



29. Gentry Bros. Circus, October 30, 2003 - Am interested in any pictures of, information about, and any available artifacts from the Gentry Bros. Circus which originally began in Bloomington, IN as the Gentry Bros. Dog and Pony Show. The Monroe County Historical Society Museum (in Bloomington), of which I am a board member, is in the process of creating a permanent exhibit on this topic. Any help anyone can give us will be greatly appreciated. Copies of articles from back Bandwagon issues would also be most welcome, especially out-of print issues: #3 1958 p 4, #4 1958 p 11, #6 1959 p 13, #6 1960 p 7. Please respond to: alendman@bluemarble.net, 812-935-6693. Thanks for any assistance! Allison Lendman Monroe County Historical Society, 202 East 6th Street, Bloomington, IN 47408. Respond to this message


28. Hopeville, Iowa, October 26, 2003 - I'm searching for information about a circus that performed at Hopeville, Iowa in the early 1900's. I've been told it may have been the Cole Brothers Circus, but am not sure. They had an elephant die when they were there once and it is buried there. I'm particularly interested in the lion tamer. If anyone can help me it would be greatly appreciated. Thanks. Janet Marshall, jcfmarshall@mchsi.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: January 13, 2004 - With sketchy information, the best place to start the search would be with a scan of the local newspapers for the time period in question. That will reveal the identity of the circuses that played the community, which in turn would lead to developing further information. Something as unusual as the death and burial of an elephant would have been covered in the local news. If their is no community newspaper, then the paper from the county seat should be checked. If the name of the elephant is known, that could serve as a search initiation point. Fred Dahlinger, Jr., Director of Historic Resources and Facilities, Circus World Museum.
         The Cole Bros. title usage commenced in 1906. I checked the routes for Cole titles 1906-1909, 1912 and 1913, all complete, and did not find a Hopeville entry. There were some scattered Iowa dates in a few years. All of these shows were railroad outfits. If Hopeville was on the railroad, it could have been a rail show or an overland circus that played the engagement. If there was no local railroad, it would have been an overland circus, a smaller proposition.
    Reply: September 18, 2004 - This is an article from the Leon Journal-Reporter published about 7 years ago. I thought this might give you a clue even if I couldn't find the answer to your question. Please let me know if you found them helpful. Candy Brown, Van Meter, Iowa, former resident of Hopeville, Iowa, CABBOB70@aol.com.

    "Elephat Safari Begins in Decatur County. About one year ago Don Young, a Decatur County history buff, learned of the burial of an elephant near Decatur, Iowa, back in the early 1900s. He began digging into the files at the Decatur County Museum aided by . . . the historical society. . . . found an article with a snapshot and gave it to Don. He investigated further and found that [a person of Decatur] had a bone from the elephant that his father had found. . . . set out to find the burial spot. . . . Over the years until the bone was found, dogs and coyotes had dug up the shallow grave. The following is a story told to a reporter many years later and was printed. Some of the names may be wrong, but those involved are no longer living. The 1915 death of an elephant may be no 'big' thing, but when it is in Decatur County then we have another first. According to the story, a circus was heading for Davis City following a performance at Van Wert, when an elephant managed to break open a wagon loaded with freshly threshed oats. Needles to say the pachyderm gourged himself, and as it were, it caused him to 'founder'. Gradually losing his strength the beast finally gave out at the Clarence Millsap farm about 1 1/2 miles south of Decatur on the road to Davis City. With a few tons of carcass on their hands circus officials quickly negotiated to bury the animal near the Millsap home. Because of the enormous size, it was agreed that it should be dismembered so that it would fit in a smaller hold. (Just try burying an elephant sometime!) With their work completed, and with two tusks for their trouble, the circus moved on - and one elephant found its way into a page of Decatur County history. To add a bit of humor to the story, Gerald 'Graves' of Leon said that years later he and Carl 'Coffin' went to the site and exhumed one of the legs of the poor fellow and made cribbage boards. . . ." [Note: sent as graphic, transcribed, some non-essential details and photos omitted, J. Griffin, webmaster]



27. Press Representative, October 25, 2003 - My father was an old press representative for circuses. There is a photo of him at the Advertising Car of the John Robinson's Circus at http://americahurrah.com/Roddy/circus.htm. Bill, billroddy@cox.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: November 6, 2003 - If Bill would advise us of his relative's name and the year he was with John Robinson, we can likely provide additional citations. Fred Dahlinger, Circus World Museum Library, 550 Water Street, Baraboo, WI 53913.


26. Worland/Warland - leaper, October 25, 2003 - Does anyone have anything on a leaper who performed in the late 1800s. Info not handy right now, but his stage name was John Warland, "Leaper of Great Renown". His real name was John Comosh from Corning, NY. He performed the triple somersault on several occassions. Travelled with John Ringling, Buffallo Bill Cody's Wild West Show and Forepaugh's Circus. Please let me know if you have anything at all. Thank you, dgillies609@aol.com. Question. Name, email address. Respond to this message
    Reply: October 25, 2003 - There is information on John Worland (real name Comosh) in William Slout's Olympians of the Sawdust Circle (see Publications to order Olympians). On pages 334-335, here's just some of the information listed. Born 9 Aug 1855, died 5 Jul 1933, native of Corning, NY. Father a Portuguese immigrant. Entered circus in ca. 1865 at age 10 (lists a number of circuses he was with, including Forepaugh's and W. W. Cole's in the 1880s). Best known for his leaping and triple somersault. Married Josephine Campbell in Corning in 1884. When he died at Corning at age 78, he had been in the coal business. Active in Corning government, held various official positions (listed). Children: John Jr., Josephine, Margaret. There is an article in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb, 1864, pp.20-23, "Truth or Fiction: Legend or Fact," by Pierre Couderic, on the triple somersault and includes information on John Worland. Worland was said to be the only leaper actually documented to have performed the triple from a springboard. At http://worldacro.org/was/newsletter/fullarticle_arc.php?item=14, states that Worland wrote "The Origin and History of the Trampoline" in 1925. Judy Griffin
    Update: November 7, 2003 - Thank you for your speedy and thorough response to my query re: John Worland aka Comosh. Great source references as well. Thank you. Here's another, rather tortured question. It's a thread I'm following. Maybe you can add to it. Albert Campbell, was a pioneer recording artist. John Comosh was his uncle. From the time his family moved from Greenpoint, Brooklyn, NY around 1876, and until about age 20, Albert lived in Corning. He finally quit glass-cutting and along with a cousin, "hit the stage". He trouped around with various theatre/performing companies upstate (Manhattan-Philadelphia Opera Company might have been one). It wasn't until he returned to New York City, met Edison and began recording at the dawn of the acoustic (Gramaphone/Victrola) era did he find his way to eventual recording stardom with Edison, Pathe, Victor, Columbia and others.
         My question is, could Albert have trouped with his uncle, John Comosh/Worland upstate before heading to New York City? One of Campbell's singing partners and later life, musical collaborators was Jack Kaufman, brother of recording artist, Irving Kaufman. Irving Kaufman was born in Syracuse, NY around 1890, and by 8 years of age, performed in Forepaughs & Sells Circus. He was a tenor singing with "Merrick's Band of Fifty Pieces". I know that circus acts could be on a Vaudeville show's bill, but was it common for musical talents, singers, in particular, to perform with Circus troupes? Did others of the 1880-1920 generation, get their start this way? And, is there any record of Albert Campbell doing so, where he might have first met, or shared a common upstate NY circus past with a colleague like Kaufman?


25. Bertrum Mills Circus, October 21 2003 - I`m enquiring about Bertrum Mills Circus for a quiz question that's got everybody stumped! I can't find anything about it on the net, although my nan remembers it. The question is, "How much would you pay to see Bertrum Mills Circus in 1932?. The possible answers are.... 2s 6d, 1s 6d, 1s 3d, 2s 3d. Can you help? Regards, Martin Jeyes, crazyjeyesy@hotmail.com. Respond to this question
    Reply: October 21, 2003 - You also might want to post this question to itinerantroots, a Yahoo group that seems to deal more with circus history in the British Isles. You have to subscribe to post a message (itinerantroots-subscribe@yahoogroups.com). Go to http://groups.yahoo.com/ to read about this group, type itinerantroots in search.
    Reply: November 13, 2003 - I am guessing 1s 3d, as that was a lot of money in those days. I was born in England in 1932! Patricia Jameson (Wild Animal Fantasy 1957)
    Update: November 13, 2003 - The answer was indeed 1s 3d, which I went for as an "educated guess", and out of the correct entries (put in a hat) I was the winner! I only won a CD but it was still nice to be the winner, and especially nice to find out the answer at last because it had really been bugging me! Martin Jeyes.
    Reply: February 3, 2004 - If you know anything about the Mills circus please let me know. STELLACRISP@aol.com.


24. Brands Circus, October 21, 2003 - I have an advertising mirror depicting a Bengal tiger and titled Brands Circus; wild animal show. Although I suspect that this is of British origin I can find no reference to it. Does anyone have knowledge of this show. Bill Copp, Bill_Copp@canaccord.com. Respond to this question
    Reply: October 21, 2003 - You might want to post this question to itinerantroots, a Yahoo group that seems to deal more with circus history in the British Isles. You have to subscribe to post a message (itinerantroots-subscribe@yahoogroups.com). Go to http://groups.yahoo.com/ to read about this group, type itinerantroots in search.
    Reply: August 07, 2004 - Have you been able to find anymore about the Brands Circus? I too have a mirror. Don Filmer, dfilmer@telus.net.


23. Lockhart's Circus, October 18, 2003 - Can anyone give me information about Lockhart's Circus? I know they were related to the Ginette's and the Pinders and I believe the SA singer was Eve Boswell. The Lockhart's had a speciality act using elephants, a book, The Grey Titan was written about them. It is rumoured that they introduced shooting a man from a cannon to the British public. I would be most grateful for any information about this circus family. EEReev@aol.com. Respond to this question
    Reply: 17 October, 2005 - If anyone does have more information on singer Eve Boswell's participation in this circus please let me know. Thank you. Neil Kellas

    Reply: 05 June 2007 - I also would like any information about this circus. Samual Lockhart was my great great uncle. I have pictures of my grandfather at age 15 sitting on one of his elephants. I would greatly appreciately any and all information you may have. Thank you. Norah Nelson, norah1@telus.net

    Reply: 06 June 2007 - Regarding Eve Boswell 1924 - 1998 : (from her obituary written by Denis Gifford).

    She was born Eva Keleti, in Budapest, in 1924, the only daughter of a professional pair who toured the world with their musical act. Educated in Lausanne, Switzerland, she studied classical piano at the famous Lausanne Academy before joining her parents as a teenager. When the Second World War was declared in September 1939 the act was on tour in England. The family was classified as alien, so, taking a job with the Boswell Circus, they promptly departed for a tour of South Africa. Here Trevor McIntosh, the stepson of one the owners (Syd Boswell), taught Eve to speak English, and the two fell in love. In time they married. It was Trevor McIntosh who encouraged the girl to sing and to change her name to Eve Boswell, after his stepfather's circus. Geraldo (Gerald Bright), then the top dance band leader, heard them, liked them and sent the girl a telegram offering her three months work. Eve, Trevor and their small son Michael promptly sold up their African homestead and sailed for England. She opened with Geraldo at the Blackpool Winter Gardens on 1 June 1949. That was the end of her connection to Boswell's Circus. She had no connection to Lockharts that I know of.

    Regarding Lockharts: I don't know anything about a "Lockart's Circus" but their 'Cruet Elephants' were famous (and dangerous) George Lockhart Snr. (1849/1904) who was killed by the elephant 'Sauce' when the Cruets stampeded at Walthamstow Goodsyard, Hoe Street Station, Walthamstow, London on 24th January 1904.

    George was Samuel Lockart's (1850-1933) brother. John Turner has entries for all the Lockarts in his 'Victorian Arena' Vol 1 & 2 but no mention of them having a circus of their own? Try posting at John Turner's forum http://pub34.bravenet.com/forum/2891452389 and maybe John will re-post his Lockart entries for you?

    Jim and Jamie Clubb (www.mazinganimals.co.uk) are writing a book about 'The Cruets' and can tell you a lot about Lockarts. The 'Boswell confusion' may come from the fact that George Lockart Jnr (1883 - 1979) married Rebecca (Becky) Boswell [daughter of South African Circus founder James C Boswell and his wife Louisa (nee Powell)].

    I would like to see any photos you cared to share of Lockarts elephants, my email is ndlovu8@gmail.com. Kind regards, Jim Stockley, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa



22. Indian Princess, October 18, 2003 - I am seeking information about an Indian Princess that rode in a circus in the mid to late 1800's. Name of circus and name of Indian girl not known. aviatin@aol.com, ronald.thompson@aa.com. Respond to this question


21. King Brothers Circus, October 12, 2003 - I am seeking information on the King brother circus, existence dates, traveling agendas, etc. LNiemann@aol.com. 21. Respond to this question
    Reply: Found in the Directory of American Circuses 1793-2000, Robert L. Parkinson, Baraboo, WI: Circus World Museum, 2002, p. 242: King Bros. Circus - 1937, 1942, 1946-1956, 1959-1978, 1980. Additional information on this circus' titles, dates and proprietors is on pages 242-243.


20. Allen Brother's Wild West Show, October 10, 2003 - I am looking for any information regarding a past circus from the late 1800's that disbanded around the 1940's, called "Allen Brother's Wild West Show". Specific names that owned the circus are Charlie Allen who was a bear trainer and bull trainer. He had appeared on the Ed Sullivan Show several times in regards to his talent. Any information will be greatly appreciated. Marsha Allen, please e-mail any responses to marn523@aol.com. Thank you. Respond to this question
    Reply: Found in the Directory of American Circuses 1793-2000, Robert L. Parkinson, Circus World Museum, 2002, p. 23: Allen Bros. Circus or Wild West, 1927-1934, 1985-1998. Including Allen Bros. Circus or Wild West, Charles and Mert Allen, proprietors, 1927-1934; Allen Bros. Circus, Allen Bedford, proprietor, 1985-1998. Also listed is an Allen's Circus, 1882, 1890.


19. Animal or Lion tamer, October 5, 2003 - Was there another great famous animal trainer or lion tamer with the Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus before Gunther Gebel Williams? Bastillman@aol.com. Respond to this question
    Reply: October 14, 2003 - Alfred Court appeared with Ring Bros. & Barnum Bailey in the 1940s. He had a number of trainers that also appeared in the performance.
    Reply: November 07, 2004 - If interested, I have an original poster from the mid 1940's highlighting Ringling Bros - The Incomparable Alfred Court. Please respond if interested or pass on to who you might think would be. Thanks, Tom S., Tstefanos@aol.com.
    Reply: 03-Jan-05 - Clyde Beatty appeared with R.B.B.&B. as did Prof. George Keller's act after his death.


18. Ford Brothers Kodiak Circus, September 30, 2003 - I'm trying to find information on the Ford Brothers Kodiak Circus, a traditional big-top circus that I believe was based in Texas. It's my understanding that the owner was implicated in the murder of one, or possibly two, of the circus's workers in Colorado in 1982. Any info on this circus and especially on this incident would be greatly appreciated. Tim Clark, TimClarkNY@msn.com. Respond to this question

    Update: October 7, 2003 - The circus in question in my query of September 30 was a traditional "big top" operation that apparently began its season in Texas and traveled generally northwest through the states performing mostly one night stands. Eventually they would reach Seattle and board an Alaska-bound ferry boat. Their final performances of the season would take place on Kodiak Island, in the western Gulf of Alaska. They may also have been known as the "Ford Bros. Circus," the "Ford Circus," or the "Ford Bros Trained Wild Animal Show." Does anyone have information on this operation? Tim Clark, TimClarkNY@msn.com
    Reply November 8, 2003 - You can see two pages of information Regarding FORD BROS. CIRCUS at my GREAT AMERICAN CIRCUSES web site: http://hartlandsmith.tripod.com/fordbro.htm. When the circus played Mackinaw City, Michigan on July 8,1983, I found the showfolk to be very friendly and the equipment seemed to be in good shape. Hartland Smith


17. Louis B. Robinson, Adeline Minor, September 22, 2003 - Louis B. Robinson was in the Barnum Circus from 1882-1885 as an acrobatic dancer and contortionist.Is there any way such as a roster of names that can clarify this? I have heard that his wife, was also in the circus at the same time, her name was Adeline Minor. Donna Nichols, nicknac9swife@aol.com. Respond to this question


16. Lion Tamer, Rose Bascom(?), September 22, 2003 - I am looking for a woman lion tamer in the circus community sometime between 1905 and 1915. Her name was Rose Flanders Bascom. She may not have used that name. It is told she was clawed by an animal and died from an infection. She was from NH and left her family to join a circus. I can find no record of her or her death. I have photo of her with lions and tigers in a cage. I have no circus name. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you. Joanne Savitkas, Glen, NH joelsa8@earthlink.net. Respond to this question


15. Flying Hartzel's Trapeze Act, September 17, 2003 - I would be interested in any information on what became of the Flying Hartzel's Trapeze Act. I believe that the act performed with the Shrine Circus and last performed at the Circus Circus Casino in Reno in the early 1970's. I was aquainted with several of the family members in Seattle in the 1960's. Jim Houston, Bothell, Washington, jim_houston@attglobal.net. Respond to this question
    Reply: Are you familiar with the beautiful female trapeze artist "Princess Musetta?" She traveled with the Shrine Circus for years and many other circuses. I'm trying to find articles on her, but can't find any. My brothers were also in the circus, family known as the "Great Velardes." Did you know them? Dora, ABUEGRAM2@aol.com.

    Reply: 02 June, 2006 - Yes, I worked with the Flying Hartzels on the Hamid Morton Circus in 1952. John and Helene Hartzel had four sons. Two sons are in Las vegas and one in NJ. Hope this is of some help. fhcampisi@snet.net


14. Book - Traveling Showmen, September 10, 2003 Hi- I am trying to locate a copy of Stuart Thayer's "Traveling Showmen", few libraries have it, it's out of print, etc. Does anyone on this list know of the publisher or author have copies remaining? I am working on my history thesis, which is about circus history, and his book has appeared in citations from other recent works, so I would like to look at it, and am even willing to buy a copy. Thanks, Amelia. Amelia Klem, amelia@uwm.edu Respond to this question
    Reply: November 6, 2003 - This book is available from Circus World Museum Store, 550 Water Street, Baraboo, WI 53913 (Susan Topham, 608-356-8342 ext. 3239), or Stuart Thayer, 430 17th Avenue East, Seattle, WA 98112, or John H. McConnell, One Skyline Drive, Morristown, NJ 07960.


13. Gilmans and Johnny Jones Circus, September 01, 2003 - Frank Gilman and son Harry were with the Johnny Jones Circus. In 1919 Harry had an illusion act. Is this type info available? Also, the wife of Harry, Thelma, was a diver into a tank of water. Is there a roster with the names of this diving team? Thanks, June Gilman, San Antonio, TX, Gilmanjune@aol.com. Respond to this question
    Reply: November 06, 2003 - Johnny J. Jones operated a traveling railroad carnival. At one time it had a back end wild animal show or circus. The best coverage of the show is Bob Goldsack's book. Bob is at 70 Dublin Ave., Nashua, NH 03060.
    Reply: March 04, 2004 - I noticed your September 2003 question on the Circus History message board regarding the Johnny Jones Circus. Did you happen to get a copy of the Bob Goldsack book that was recommended? I have been looking for information regarding the Johnny Jones Circus. My husband's father was orphaned at birth on the circus train in 1912 and was raised by a man known as Captain Jim Moore who ran the wild west show in the Johnny Jones Circus. If you have the book, please let me know. Thanks!!! Sheila Hall, shall64@tampabay.rr.com.
    Reply: March 13, 2004 - I do have a copy of the Bob Goldsack Book on the circus and it is a good overall history of the circus but is not much help for those of us who are searching for individuals. It referred to Wild Animal shows but no names for handlers or keepers. I looked for the name Cpt Jim Moore but did not find it. GilmanJune@aol.com.


12. Balloon Ascensions: early traveling circus, August 20, 2003 - Looking for information on captive balloon ascensions as part of early traveling circus performances. Do you have a good source of information? In particular, I am interested in gas generation methods, winching methods, typical performance heights and performance routines (parachute jumps, aerialists, etc.). Any help any clues are much appreciated. Tom Moran, tfmcad@rit.edu. Respond to this question
    Reply: Try America's Daredevil Balloonist: W.H. Donaldson, 1840-1875, James W. Raab. Manhattan, KS: Sunflower University Press, 1999.
    Reply: November 6, 2003 - Two articles have been published about circus balloon ascensions, both in Bandwagon, one by Robert L. Parkinson and the other by William L. Slout. They should be in the website's Bandwagon index and photocopies can be purchased from Circus World Museum's Library. There was also an article about the balloon wedding written by John Kunzog. The book "The Eagle Aloft," published by the Smithsonian, is also an excellent reference on balloon activity.


11. Maddera Circus, August 17, 2003 - I would like any information about the 'Maddera Circus' of the 19th century. Many of their artifacts are in Guntersville AL. It was stated that the circus was bought out by Ringling Brothers. Great page! Russell Reed, maddera4@netscape.net. Respond to this question
    Reply: November 6, 2003 - I've found no reference to such a circus and have never heard of the Ringlings buying such a show at that time in their existence. Perhaps the person posing the inquiry can supply a description of the types of artifacts and such that have survived? They might provide a clue to the show's identification and history.

    Reply: 14 May 2007 - I am a descendant of the the Maddera family. My grandmother was a Maddera and I have been told about this circus my entire life. My mother and her sibling were told that their great grandfather was in the Maddera Circus with P. T. Barnum prior to the existence of the Barnum and Bailey Circus. I am curious of the possible artifacts and if they are displayed in the Guntersville area I would love to go view them. JANiAM2B@aol.com

    Reply: 29 May 2007 - My 3g grandmother was a bareback rider in Orton and Olders Great Southern Circus just prior to the Civil War. Her name was Miranda Maddera and her father, James T. Maddera was the Ring Master. Before his job with the Great Southern, he had his own circus. I have quite a bit of information on this Circus that I would be happy to share if it would be useful to you. I would be interested in more information on where I might see the artifacts in Guntersville. CountryGator@aol.com.


10. Circuses on the Great Lakes, August 14, 2003 - I just attended the Kelly-Miller Circus at a two day stand on Kellys Island in Lake Erie. Does anyone have any references to other circuses that performed on the Great Lakes and moved by boat? John Polacsek, artistofdetroit@aol.com. Respond to this question
    Reply: John: great question. I too have wondered about that ... Neil Smith,Chillicothe, OH has written an account of the Kelly-Miller - Kelly's Island date for "Around The Curve" Oct-2003 Forepaugh-Lubin newsletter. Our Susie O'Brien is going to be the Harrisburg, Pa Nov. Speaker this year ... She lives on the Walter L. Main Train Wreck property. Very good speaker and will be a hit in Harrisburg, Pa in November. Our September Tent Meeting will be held at the Tyrone Train Station. Susie O'Brien will host the Meeting. Didn't see you this year during the Great Circus Parade. Hope all is going well with you and your family. Go to circusfans.org for "Circus Week Altoona 2004." - Dpowhitetiger@aol.com


9. Clark Circus Family, August 13, 2003 - Looking for information on the Clark circus family that originated in Ireland. Frank Clark immigrated to the U.S. from Ireland in 1842 at the age of 12. The family were horse trainers and bare-back riders. Frank traveled with circuses until 1880 when he settled in Travis County, Texas and for a time delivered the mail on horseback. Candice Allmand, Psallm@aol.com. Respond to this question
    Reply: November 6, 2003 - An article about the Clark family appeared in Bandwagon, possible author was Anthony Hippisley-Coxe. Bandwagon website index lists: Clarke Family, Part One, Coxe, Anthony, Mar.-Apr. 1982 p. 11; Clarke Family, Part Two, Coxe, Anthony, May-June 1982 p. 18; Clarke Family, Part Three, Coxe, Anthony, May-June 1982 p. 20 . Photocopies can be purchased from Circus World Museum Library, 550 Water Street, Baraboo, WI 53913.


8. Susan A. Stuart known as Leona Dare, August 13, 2003 - Researching Leona Dare (real name Susan A. Stuart). She was an aerialist in the 1870's-80's and performed through out Europe. Her best act was doing her act from a trapeze suspended under a hot air balloon. She was taught gymnastics by Thomas Smith Hall in New Orleans and performed with the J. E. Warner circus debuting in 1871 in New York as Leona Dare. I am trying to glean what information I can about her and perhaps pictures too. Thanks for any help you may be able to offer. Chris Fox, foxhunt@gte.net. Respond to this question
    Reply: October 25, 2003 - In William Slout's Olympians, p. 70: Leona Dare debuted at Nixon's Amphitheatre, New York City, winter 1871-72. Was with J. E. Warner's in 1872. Married George Hall in New York City in 1876, later separated in Europe. You might find more information on Leona at Circus World Museum.
    Reply: November 6, 2003 - CWM Library recently responded to another inquiry about Leona Dare. We compiled about 50 photocopies of information, references and citations. The person can contact us for photocopy rates and such. Fred Dahlinger, Circus World Museum Library, 550 Water Street, Baraboo, WI 53913.


7. Call for Circus Papers, August 11, 2003 - The Thirty-Fourth Annual Convention of The Popular Culture Association & The Twenty-Sixth Annual Convention of The American Culture Association will take place April 7-10, 2004 at the Marriott Rivercenter Hotel, San Antonio.
     This will be the eighth meeting of the Popular Culture Association Circuses and Circus Culture interest group. We invite papers that explore the past and present of circus as an art, as a craft and as a unique form of popular culture. Circus, as a continuously evolving tradition of live entertainment, lends itself to scholarship form many perspectives.
     Some of our previous papers dealt with – The Clown as Trickster?: Dan Rice, 19th Century Circus, Twentieth Century Myth Historic themes in Ringing Brothers Spectacles, West Meets East: The Western Impact on Traditonal Chinese Circus, From Ubangis to Ringmaster: Africana Presence under the Big Top, Animals, Entrepeneurs and the Market, Circus Related Crime and Deviance, Making Toby Tyler Politically Correct, Images of Female Circus Performers in Painting and Popular Culture
     Our panels have been diverse and fascinating. We invite you to join us. Send a fifty word abstract of your paper by September 20, 2003 to: PCA, Circuses and Circus Culture Chair: Robert Sugarman, P.O. Box 407, Shaftsbury, VT 05262, Phone: (802) 447-7179, FAX: (802) 447-2611, Email: bobsugar@sover.net.


6. Hagenbeck-Wallace and Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Combined, August 10, 2003 - I have found a fun item, a ruler marked by both of these circuses and is made of 12 pieces of different woods, each piece indicated the type of wood, where it came from, and in what part of the circus it was used. I've been trying to find when these two circuses were working together to try to date the ruler, and I don't seem to be making much progress. Is there anyone that could help? I thought I would have had an easier time of this, but I guess I was wrong! Thanks for the help. Respond to this question
    Reply: The "Directory of American Circuses 1793-2000," Circus World Museum, Baraboo, WI, p. 178 lists the Hagenbeck-Wallace and Forepaugh-Sells Bros. Circus for 1935.


5. Drury, Van Tassle, Brown & Co., August 8, 2003 - I have a letterhead for this Circus and Menagerie in 1837 in Charlotte, NC. Where can I find any information on this circus? Found in my great grandfathers papers where he fed and stabled animals from this circus. Respond to this message
    Reply: August 11, 2003. The gentleman can find information on Drury, Van Tassle, Brown & Co. in Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, (2000), pages 168-169. He can contact us for photocopies if desired. Fred Dahlinger, Circus World Museum


4. Water Queen, Man-Fish, August 07, 2003 - Looking for information on how this act was done. Performers supposedly ate, drank, smoked, played cards, etc. underwater. The act was often in the concert/aftershow, at least in the 1870s. Judy Griffin, circushistory@gmail.com. Respond to this message


3. 7 pony floats, Barnum & Bailey, August 07, 2003 - I would like to know what issue of Bandwagon contained an article on the 7 pony floats (Cinderella), etc. of Barnum & Bailey. Respond to this message
    Reply: The article you're looking for may be "Allegorical Pony Floats," Richard E. Conover, Bandwagon, 1960, Vol. 4, No. 5, p. 3.


2. M'lle Latour, Leap for Life, August 05, 2003 - Looking for information on this female trapeze artist. She was with Cooper & Bailey, 1880. Judy Griffin, circushistory@gmail.com. Respond to this message


1. Hutchinson & Co. Circus, August 01, 2003 - Looking for information on this circus in operation 1889, sold January 1890. Looking for possible connection with James L. Hutchinson and/or Charles R. or Fred Hutchinson. Judy Griffin, circushistory@gmail.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: November 17, 2003 - A few dates for this 1889 show note the route as follows: The title was Hutchinson & Co's United Monster Shows. April 22 - Crawfordsville, Ind.; April 29 - Boomnville, Ind.; May 4 - Mt. Vernon, Ill.; May 6 - Fairfield, Ill.; May 14 - Centralia, Ill.; May 16 - Effingham, Ill.; May 17 - Mattoon, Ill.; May 24 - Kankakee, Ill.; July 23 - Racine, Wis.; July 24, Kenosha, Wis. John Polacsek

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