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Message Archive: Messages 1 - 50

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.

Reply: 14 Sep 2009 - I recently learned that my father's father was supposed to have been Herschel Allen, a sword swallower in Pennsyvania during the early 1920s. When I stumbled onto your 2003 circushistory.org post regarding such a person I was quite surprised. I wonder if you found out anymore about Herschel. I also would like to see your photo of him, if possible. If so, please contact me. Thank you, James Allen

Reply: 21 Jun 2010 - My name is Jason Allen. My parents were from a small town in Missouri. There parents were from Kentucky and their parents were from Georgia. I have two posters from the Allen Brothers circus. they both say 1931. one says Edmeston Aug. 12 afternoon and night. The other says Allen brothers long-horn ranch will be at Whitney Point September 15, 1931. They will have Texas Henry a real Texas outlaw and a bucking automobile built in Texas. It says it is the largest motorized wild west in tour. Absolutely no picture show not a circus real wild west. If you find anything that links them to any of these states I would like to know. I went to Cody Wyoming to the Cody museum and Bill Codys aunt was Sarah Allen from Missouri.

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

Reply: 18 Dec 2009 - Clem's first wife was Doris Morley. She was a dancer and lived in Altrincham Cheshire. She was my mother's sister. Pat.

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

Reply: 01 Nov 2008 - Hello Carl, I am a documentary filmmaker and very interested in obtaining a copy of your King Bros. Steam Calliope recording. Can you direct me as how to do that? Thank you very much. Sincerely, Shirley Morris

Reply: 02 Nov 2008 - Utilizing the old King Bros. recording raises issues of copyright infringement. If you're seeking steam calliope music for commercial or even not-for-profit production application, it's possible to contact Dave or Zach Morecraft of Morecraft Manufacturing in Peru, IN, www.steamcalliope.com, e-mail dmorecraft@steamcalliope.com. They can produce any type of steam calliope sound track that you might require. Fred Dahlinger

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

Reply: 15 Mar 2011 - I very much would like to see this photo for I think my friends family is in it. Thanks Glitz

Reply: 18 Jan 2012 - I would love to see the photo. My grandmother was also a part of the Hagenbeck Wallace Circus (I think about 1928). Thanks so much for the info! MWalker

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.

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

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.

Reply: 26 Jan 2011 - My name is David, and I had a Great Grandmother by the name of Mary Anne Hudson, who was a Tightrope walker. Almost certainly the same person. My email address is dmjspen@tiscali.co.uk. Will be interested to hear from you. Kind Regards, David Spencer

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.

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 - Removed at request of sender.

Reply: 24 Jan 2008 - Removed at request of sender.

Reply: 17 Feb 2008 - Removed at request of sender.

Reply: 16 Mar 2008 - Removed at request of sender.

Reply: 16 Mar 2009 - Removed at request of sender.

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 additional 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

Reply: 17 Dec 2010 - This is from the New York Times Oct 5 1885. I mentions James Eagles, who was severely injured, but survived.
    FIVE MEN KILLED. ACCIDENT TO A CIRCUS TRAIN IN MINNESOTA. St. Paul, Oct. 4 - A Fergus Falls Special to the Pioneer Press says: At 8 o'clock this morning, while JOHN ROBINSON'S circus train, in two sections, was coming into this city from Wahpeton, on the Northern Pacific Railroad, about four miles west of this city, a coupling broke and the rear seven cars of the first section ran down the steep grade into the engine of the second section at a rate of 40 miles an hour. The caboose and two sleeping cars, containing 160 sleeping men, composed a portion of the section which had broken loose. The engineer of the approaching train stopped his engine, and he and the fireman jumped and were saved, but had not time to reverse, and both sections crashed into each other, killing 5 men outright, fatally injuring 3, and injuring 10 or 12 others slightly. The watchman of the train, trying to warn the sleeping men of the danger of the collision, was killed himself, refusing to desert, although aware that a collision was inevitable. He was frightfully mangled; his heart was found on top of a flat car some distance away, his bowels lying on the ground, and his body cut to pieces. The other men were mangled almost beyond recognition; EAGLES, the boss hostler, will probably die. He is injured internally. WILLIAM WINGOLD, of the lamp department, has one side of his head badly cut, and other injuries. No performers or animals were hurt. The men killed were the watchman, WILSON, and four canvasmen. The engine was badly smashed and cars reduced to kindling wood. The remarkable fact is that more were not killed and injured. Twenty or thirty others received slight cuts and bruises. The list of killed is: ROBERTS, canvasman, joined at Wadena on the way to Cincinnati; WILLIAM KROUSE, lived at Cincinnati; SAM BLAIR, joined at Colfax; JAMES WILSON, watchman, formerly policeman at Cincinnati. The injured men were removed to the hospital at Brainerd and a Coroner's inquest will be held to-morrow. Michael Swanson, Franklin, TN

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.

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

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

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

Reply: 27 Sep 2008 - I too, have been trying to gather information regarding the Gentry Brother’s Circus Band. My mother-in-law passed away last December. She was 101 years of age. In going through some of her photos, I found one of the band players, in front of a band wagon. I believe the note on the back reads “Season 1928”. A second photo shows 4 men sitting in a very large chair. These notes appear to say “Chair City” – Gardener, Mass, with side note saying “2nd from left, Rallin Pease – coronet player”. The third photo is 3 wagons that appear to be stuck in the mud. Notation on back reads “This is at _____cy, Mass where they had a terrible time because of mud”. Would enjoy hearing back regarding any information one may have found. There’s a possibility her three aunts traveled with them as well. They were vocalists and traveled. ??? Regards, Cathy Schupp, cathys@hughes.net

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.

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.

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.

Reply: 27 Jan 2012 - My name is Diane Mix Hayes. I am the grand daugther of the late Tom Mix. Some say my grandfather left Arkasana with a circus. I am trying to find some of his brothers or sister my grandfather was a black any infromation that you can come with be greatly appreciated.

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.

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

Reply: 18 Sep 2009 - I am currently putting my father Arthur Rammer's circus/vaudeville biography together. He was with the Cevene Troupe, wire walkers. They performed with the Gentry Bros' circus in 1911. I have a photo of group and a business card. Interested is a copy of items contact me. Michael Rammer, mrammer@aol.com.

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]

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.

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?

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.

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.

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

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.

Reply: 28 Dec 2011 - I was a roustabout on the King Bros show during the summer of 1973. Please let me know if I can be of any assistance. Regards, Mark Watson, Altus, Oklahoma

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

Reply: The article you're looking for may be "Allegorical Pony Floats," Richard E. Conover, Bandwagon, 1960, Vol. 4, No. 5, p. 3.

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