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Message Archive: Messages 201 - 250



250. Clowns, 1920s, September 04, 2004 - I am a journalist and I am working on a feature about American clowns in the circus in the 1920's. I am looking for collectors or museums that would be willing to quote on the subject and that can send me some of their favorite images (poster or other) on CD disk - I will email you my address if you happen to have images that you can share. Please respond to me at the below email addresses. Best regards, Mary C. Ross, mross@ramapo.edu, wordwarrior40@earthlink.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.

    Reply: 18 October, 2006 - I have in my possesion some photos of autograph pictures of circus clown Jack Powell, also Jack Goode who I believe to the first of the clowns with black painted faces. They part of a scrap book I inherited from my granmother who used to care for the daugter of Marie Genaro of Theo & Genaro. They were cotourtionist that traveled to many locations across the country. mackm2@msn.com

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249. Oakland, CA - 1936 circuses, September 02, 2004 - I'm working on a chapter of a book which deals with a circus in Oakland, CA in 1936. Can anybody point me to historical references that could help me identify which circuses visited Oakland in 1936 and where they were held? Thanks, Jory Post, jpost@santacruz.k12.ca.us. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: September 07, 2004 - A search of Oakland's newspapers will reveal which circuses played there in 1936. Other than ads there is news items that might mention the event. Also, Billboard microfilms for that year would inform you of circus routes of almost every known circus. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey and Al. G. Barnes are some of the circuses that played Oakland during the 1930's. Giovanni Iuliani.


248. Museum's Poster, Parker & Watts, September 02, 2004 - We have a poster that advertises Kit Carson Jr. featured performer with the Parker and Watts Circus. I would love to know what year the poster might be from and any information about this circus company and who Kit Jr. might be. Thanks. Jim Dunham, JimD@boothmuseum.org, Booth Western Art Museum, www.boothmuseum.org. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: September 02, 2004 - There was a Parker & Watts Circus, 1938-1939. Charles W. Parker and Ira Watts were the proprietors. From Robert L. Parkinson, Directory of American Circuses 1793-2000, Baraboo, WI: Circus World Museum, 2002, p. 308. If you search for Watts on this website, some articles on this circus are listed. J. Griffin.


247. Circus acronym, B&L, September 01, 2004 - B&L circus? Does anyone know of a circus operating in 1888 that would go by the initals "B&L"? Thanks, Amelia Klem, amelia@uwm.edu. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: September 01, 2004 - Three of the acronyms for circuses that come to mind are B&L for Barnum and London, GSOE for Greatest Show on Earth, and RBBB for Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey. By 1888 James A. Bailey and P.T. Barnum were the sole owners of the B&L, get ready - Barnum and Bailey, P.T. Barnum's Greatest Show on Earth, the Great London Circus, Sanger's Royal British Menageries, Internation Allied Shows - and variations on this. The Great London part of the title was almost always used from the late 1870s to at least 1888, often referred to as the Barnum & London (B&L). J. Griffin.


246. Elephants, Cole Circus, September 01, 2004 - I am looking for three elephants who performed with the Great James M. Cole Circus between 1943-1954. The names were Frieda (Freida) Dorothy and Elizabeth. This circus had it's beginnings in Penn Yan, NY. I lived across the street from where they would stop between show while in NY state. I carried water to the elephants when I was 8, 9, 10, or 11 years old. That would have been around 1951-54. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Paula Adwell, paula@jimala.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: September 05, 2004 - Frieda's first circus was LaMont Bros. Circus in 1923. She was leased to Frank J. Taylor in 1925 but remained under LaMont ownership until 1933 when she was sold to Ray Rogers. Rogers circus had originated in Canada and was called Barnett Bros in 1933. The show eventually moved to the U.S. and wintered in York, S.C.. Title of the show was changed to Wallace Bros, in 1940. Frieda was with Sello Bros. in 1944-45 and from there to James M. Cole. With Cole she performed with two baby elephants purchased in 1947 (Dorothy and Elizabeth) After Cole closed his circus following the 1950 season he retained the elephants which were booked independently 1951-57 after which time Frieda trouped with three small shows Hagen Bros, Sells Bros. and finally Birnam Bros. in whose winter quarters she died of old age. Dorothy and Elizabeth went to Hagen Bros. as well but after one season Dorothy went to the Tulsa, Ok. Zoo and Elizabeth died on that show in 1961 from an illness. Buckles Woodcock.
    Reply: 28 March, 2005 - Hello this message is for Buckles I would be interested if you have any info on the Sell Bro circus as my grandfather was either manager or owner his name was Peter Camp real last name is Campodonico which is also mine. He and my father John Campodonico travelled the Us and Canada in the 1940's maybe other times that I am not aware of. They were also at Port Chicago any information would greatly appreciated. Regina Campodonico. In reply to my own message. I was just going through my Grandfather's papers and he was in the general manager for Sello Bros Circus in 1947. And he was the master of ceremonies in 1944 with the Sparton Circus at Port Chicago. So it was the Sparton circus at Port Chicago not the Sello Bros. Regina Campodonico, email, one.song@sbcglobal.net
    Reply: 25 November, 2005 - I don't know exactly what happened to the elephants, but I remember Freida and Dorothy. I believe that one of the elephants ate a light bulb - my mother says it was Frieda, who was Dorothy's mother. My great uncle Frank Snyder and his wife Ethel traveled with the Cole Circus in 1953 and '54, and Uncle Frank was canvas boss, or so I understand. I was only 6 in 1954, but I remember them being gone for the summer and attending the circus when it came near home - Red Creek, NY where I still live. I also remember that James M. Cole started a park of sorts called Circus Land in Penn Yan which only lasted one summer. My parents and I went to visit it, and Uncle Frank and Aunt Ethel were living there in their trailer for the season. I remember the elephants and some deer of some sort. For several summers before that they had traveled with Henry Vonderheid's show - Von Brothers. Uncle Frank was a horse trader and loved traveling with the circus - he owned a pony ride that he loaned out to various shows for years after, and they always attended every circus that passed anywhere near central New York and knew people in most of them. I have Aunt Ethel's diaries from 1946 until she died in 1989, and wish she'd gone into more detail. I'm writing a novel that's set in a circus and have been reading her diaries again for inspiration, which is how I found this web site. Maralu Frost

    Reply: 26 December, 2006 - In 1949 I traveled with the James M. Cole Indoor Circus, with my trained dogs and ponies, using the name Sonny’s Circus. Jimmy Cole did not want to haul 3 elephants on this tour, so he only used Dorothy. I had room in my semi trailer, and I transported Dorothy on the entire tour. For some reason or other, Dorothy hated me, and tried to pin me to the side of the truck any chance she got. Mr. Cole had to be available any time she was loaded or unloaded, or needed attention on a long trip. I remember the well across the road from Coles winter quarters, water had to be lifted up with a rope, and trucks had to refill the well every so often. Brings ack many memories. Leo “Sonny” Albrecht, lja125@mchsi.com


245. Mike Bourbon, clown, August 31, 2004 - I am a clown historian interested in information on Mike Bourbon (clown on the CBCB Circus). I'm look for stories about him or other info on him. I was told stories about him as I was growing up. I'm working on a paper about him. stories or any info can be send to me at Codiclown@aol.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: 01 March, 2005 - I was looking thru some old messages and came across your query about Mike Bourbon. I was a pretty good friend of his from my early days on Hoxie Bros in the early 70s. I spent some time at his home in Long Branch NJ, and also in Florida and California. I know your message is several months old. Do you have any specific questions about Michel that I may be able to answer? You're welcome to visit my personal web site at www.RonPerryWeb.com, click on Circus Days. Ron Perry, Ron.Perry@ccra-adrc.gc.ca.


244. Cole Bros., August 31, 2004 - Do you know, or can you direct me to an on line source, where the Cole Bros. circus began? I know it was 1884. By W.W. Cole, but I have not found where. Any & all help will be sincerely appreciated. Thank you. Daniel Markham, dmarkha1@rochester.rr.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: November 01, 2004 - The Cole title starts in 1871, but Cole Bros. does not come into use until 1906, with Martin Downs use of it. There's an article about the Cole Bros. title by John Kunzog in a 1965 or 1966 Bandwagon. Fred Dahlinger.


243. Rasha the Black Dove, August 30, 2004 - I am an art historian interested in information on the Uncle Pelle Circus (Berlin, circa 1928-30). I am especially interested in information on a performer called Rasha the Black Dove, who may have done a snake charming act. If anyone has Rasha's biographical data I would greatly appreciate a full name and dates of birth, death, etc. Thank you, Celeste Jackson-Moody, California, msjacksonchico@yahoo.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: September 10, 2004 - You might know that the original Uncle Pelle, possibly this one, was named Adolf Rautmann. He was born on the 11th of February 1863 in Brenkenhof and died on the 8th of January 1937 in Berlin. Dedicated to bringing some fun into the lives of Berlin children caught in the devastating between-war crisis with his tiny outfit, mostly open air in a wooden ring, he never actually made money but was ad-hoc sponsored by the more well to do. Carl Sembach of Circus Krone, where he worked shortly as manegeclown was one of his sponsors, on the knowledge that the children he catered to would never be able to visit the big circus, there he also got surplus costumes and props. Most of his acts consisted of slight of hand 'up close' table magic, such as turning clothespegs into sweets to the delight of the hungry. After Rautman though, an "onkelpellezirkus" became a general phrase for a tiny, mostly oneman street circus, and there were several 'Onkel Pelle's' about. 'Rasha de Black Dove', if in Rautmann's circus, would most probably have been Rautmann himself, as where most of his 'artists', the outfit based on what was left over from Krone's ballet. Its improbable he really had a snake, in line with most of his acts would be that the 'snake' was actually a string of sweets, or possibly bread, tied together and the prize of the child that dared stick his hand in the basket. Rautmann played the flute as well as violin and concertina. Natasha Gerson, nani@xs4all.nl.

    Reply: 13 August, 2006 - Saw your post online when searching for info on the Uncle Pelle circus in Berlin in the 20s and saw the incorrect reply. Rasha the Black dove was indeed a snake charmer - she was originally from Madagascar, but was married to a German, also a performer, whose specialty was lifiting weights from a hook inserted into his tongue. Rasha's act consisted of entwining a boa constricotr around her body. Christian Schad, a wonderful Weimar era artist painted her portrait with another performer of Uncle Pelle's called Agosta, the Winged man, who had a chest deformity. Christian Schad and a friend of his Felix Bryk were regulars at the circus to document the oddities. This can be seen in the Book Christian Schad and the Neue Schlackheit. Let me know if you have more info about Uncle Pelle. Thanks! Dann Woellert

    Reply: 25 May 2007 - Dear all, dear Mrs. Celeste Jackson-Moody! Yesterday I wrote an article about the German circus artist and clown Adolf Rautmann, alias "Uncle Pelle" in the German-speaking Wikipedia:
    http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adolf_Rautmann
    In this context I found the request #243 on the following website from 30th August 2004: www.circushistory.org/Query/Query04d.htm. Now I would like to know, whether you have new or additional information about Adolf Rautmann or Rasha the Black Dove (German: Rasha die schwarze Taube). Can anybody help me? Thanks in advance, Markus Bautsch, Berlin


242. Circus History - International, August 29, 2004 - We are owners of a theatre in Athens, Greece and we are preparing a circus theatre event with artists from Mongolia, China, Russia, Ukraine, Germany and Spain. For our program I am looking for information about the history of circus and variety in these countries. Can anyone help me with info (or links on the web) concerning this ? Thank you in advance for your assistance, Best regards, Christine Mourelatou, info@coronet.gr, www.coronet.gr, Coronet Theatre Frinis 11 - 13 Athens 11634 Greece. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 29, 2004 - Many Moscow State Circus performers came from ex-satellite countries such as the Ukraine. As for Mongolia it is famous for producing contortionist acts. Great acrobatic troupes come from China. The German circus joined east with west with the best that the soviets and free world could provide. Spain, the land of bullfights and flaming dancers, brings passion and excitement when it comes to circus performances. Assuming that your circus event will be presented "a l'italienne", on a stage, there is very little possibility that the acts will include high acts, caged animals or liberty horses. A line-up of your acts from Russia, Ukraine, Germany, Mongolia, China and Spain would allow precise historical references. Meanwhile, information about the history of circus and variety in these countries should be in direct relation to the acts in question. Giovanni Iuliani.


241a. Flying Pages, August 29, 2004 - Looking for current information about the aerialist act the Flying Pages featuring Willy and Jill Pages. m_kaericher@sbcglobal.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


241. Fred Piper, Trapeze Artist, August 27, 2004 - In 1950 there was a retired Ringling Bros. Barnum and Bailey Circus Trapeze Artist who was working at the UpTown Theater on Conn. Ave., N.W., Wash. D.C. who had been one of the first Trapeze Artists to do the Triple in the early 1900's. His name was Fred Piper. He had been forced to retire from flying due to a fall, without a net, where he lost a lung. I would love to know more about his work on the trapeze and his courageous life after fame. I met him again when visiting Wash. in 1960. He spent many afternoons at the Wash. zoo commiserating with the enclosed animals. I understand he died several years later. Thank You, Tjanya, jtamoran@aol.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


240. "Edwardian" circus, August 26, 2004 - I am looking for circus images that reflect what is called "edwardian". Can you enlighten me where this kind of circus originated, the year and why the drawings had animals dressed up in fantastic costumes? Thank you, seb34@videotron.ca. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: September 01, 2004 - When P.T. Barnum got in the circus business it was during the Victorian era. Unless I'm mistaken there never was a "Edwardian Circus". Instead, it refers to the period that HM King Edward VII ruled the British Empire (1901-1919). He was succeeded by HM George V. As for posters depicting animals in fancy costumes I remember a RBBB one featuring dressed monkeys doing silly antics. Giovanni Iuliani.

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239. Barnabee Theriaque, August 25, 2004 - I am looking for information on Barnabee Theriaque (Deforest) and his wife Flora (Benoit). I do not know what name they used. I do know that he traveled with the Walter L. Main circus and the King & Franklin Circus from approximately 1885 to 1890. He was a strong man and knife thrower. He also had a brother and sister named Alfred and Corine Deforest who may have been in the circus from the 1900's. I was hoping you may have some info on them. Thank you for your time. Barbara Connors, tbarbaraconnors@nycap.rr.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


238. Scale Model Circus, August 24, 2004 - I'm trying to find a museum for a large and accurate scale model of a 3 ring circus. It was built in the early 1970's by a friend who past away recently. The family wishes to donate it to an appropriate place or museum so others may enjoy it. I've been trying to contact both the Ringling Museum in Florida and Circus World in Wisconsin, but getting a decisive answer one way or the other has proved extremely difficult. It's a beautiful model and wired with lights. If anyone has any information or ideas on this, please reply. Photos are available. Thanks! arosson@animaxent.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 25, 2004 - John and Mable Ringling Museum in Florida have an accurate 1" scale model of the Barnum & Bailey and Ringling Bros. Circus. Circus World in Baraboo, WI have the real thing. The C.M.B. [Circus Model Builders] have many old timers who have made scale HO, 1/4", 1/2" and 1" models. The one good reason a museum would want to feature a scale model is because there is a historical link. As an example, during the 1920's Spark Circus would play in the Province of Quebec, Canada. One of the most likely place is La Cite des Arts du Cirque (The Circus Art City) in Montreal. At the same location is the headquarters of Le Cirque du Soleil and also l'Ecole National du Cirque (National Circus School). Through the years most of the great American circuses toured through Quebec. Over a decade ago Hull's Museum of Civilizations purchased a 1" scale model of the circus parade from Gaston Bergeron, who spent a lifetime carving such famous wagons as "The Two Hemispheres", "The Five Graces",etc. These scale models where so accurate that even the horses where works of art with leather harness and horse shoes. In Quebec City, the Museum exhibited "Circus Magikus" that included a scale model of Cirque Pinder. The major advantage of approaching a museum in Canada is that art is financially supported by the government for the cultural enrichement of everybody. In the U.S. a museum stands or falls depending on revenue (a.k.a. Parkinson Library). Depending on the quality and historical accuracy, there might be a possibility that someone would want to exhibit your friend's scale model. Please forward photos and particulars to: P.O. Box 471, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H4G 3G1. Giovanni Iuliani.
    Reply: September 20, 2004 - I just saw your request asking for consideration of gifting a model circus. I would be interested in visiting with you about your friend's creation. Sincerely, Jerry Zimmerman - Wisconsin State Fair Historian, Jerdadzim@cs.com.
    Reply: September 25, 2004 - Gosh! I would love to see this circus. Wouldn't Disney World take it? My name is Joan Richards Herndon and I live in SW Ga. USA. Looking for Richards Circus material. hherndon@alltel.net.
    Reply: 02 March, 2005 - I would imagine that this note is totally "out-of-the-blue." Did you ever find a home for your friend's model circus? I'm a former employee of Feld Entertainment - owners of Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus, yet a circus fan/historian since I was a child. I currently have a 60' X 40' diorama of the circus under canvas. It took me many years to find a suitable model for use in this diorama. Mine is in 1/2" scale and involves the handy work of many notable collectors and model builders. I started collecting when I realized that many of the master model builders I had admired when I was a kid (early 60's and 70's) had passed away - leaving no trace or whereabouts of their work. Is there any thing you can tell me about your friend and his collection? By chance did you ever get the opportunity to take pictures and if so, might they be available (or copied)? As noted in my greeting - this note is well past due you initial posting on the message board, but one never knows unless they take the time to ask. Sincerely, John Mulcahy, jtmulcahy@msn.com


237. Hillary Long, high wire, August 24, 2004 - Looking for information on high wire trapeze act of Hillary Long. He was a center ring star. Did high wire acts also. His home base was Kent Co DE. His home was to have been in N.C. He died of T.B. in Tucson AZ on Feb 5th, 1930. Carole Werner, Quakertown, PA, itapa@enter.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


236. James Snyder, B&B, August 24, 2004 - We are trying to locate information on James Martin Snyder. He was with Barnum and Bailey Circus in the 1930's. He was a comic doing black face comedy. He last was in Indiana in 1940 before coming back to Ohio. That was the same year he died at the age of 64. This is only info we have. Can you confirm this to be true. Please send e-mail to James C. Snyder at Ritabel7@aol.com. Thank you. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


235. Chester's Circus, August 23, 2004 - My uncle, James Martin Boon, was an acrobat in Chester's Circus, in England in the 1930s. Does anyone know anything about this circus? John Boon. john.boon@ntlworld.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


234. The Midway, August 23, 2004 - My research shows that the term "midway" was not commonly used until some time in the early 20th century. Can anyone tell me how showmen would have referred to the midway before then? Thanks. Carol Brendler, carol@brendlers.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 24, 2004 - The Chicago Columbian Exposition of 1893 introduced the word(s) MIDWAY PLAISANCE to designate that part where side shows and other amusements are located. Insofar as the circus is concerned, the emplacement used is commonly known as "the lot". The entrance would be the "front" and behind the circus tent "the back lot". However, the use of the word "midway" concerns mostly fairs and carnivals. They usually set-up in the shape of a horseshoe. Since people tend to go in a right direction, they would enter a carnival lot facing a merry-go-round. To their right is an alley (midway) lined on both sides with games of chance. There would also be some concessions in the middle. Amusement rides would be in the middle of the horseshoe shape and the back end would be filled with side shows. Some of the side shows where circus related such as wild animal acts. With shows that moved weekly the concessions would switch over and alternate. Only the souvenir stand would remain on the left exit side of the midway. How they designated the lot prior to 1893 is a matter of conjecture. The organization of carnival shows was in it's infancy and very few portable rides existed. Other then expositions there was many operators who played street fairs and would use the street or name of festivities to designate where they played. The late Joe McKennon (Carnival Publishers) of Sarasota, Florida, published A PICTORIAL HISTORY OF THE AMERICAN CARNIVAL. In Volume II there is a attempt of the etymology. CIRCUS LINGO is another book by the same publisher. Giovanni Iuliani.


233. Gene Mendez, August 23, 2004 - I would appreciate any information that anyone may have regarding high wire performer Gene Mendez. Any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you. Kristine Archer, karcher@comcast.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: 02-Jan-05 - The obituary for Giner Mendez in the Cleveland Plain Dealer August 23, 1993 noted he was 56 when he died in Orlando, Florida of a heart attack. He had been a high wire performer for 30 years, beginning his training as a teenager as a body builder and gymnast. The Flying Wallendas saw him on a televised amateur talent show in Philadelphia and recruited him for their act. He later started his own act, usualy working alone without a balance pole and safety net. He was on the RBBB, Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus, Circus Circus, and Circus Scott. He gave command performances for the queen of Britain, Princess Grace of Monaco, and the Shah of Iran. He was in a number of movies and also a double for Pee Wee Herman in "Pee Wee Herman's Big Top". He also performed on the Monte Carlo Circus that was organized by RBBB. John Polacsek
    Reply: 09 March, 2005 - I was on RBBB circus in the early 1970's. The only info I can give you is that Gene was a fine person and an excellant wire walker. vince dillmann, the flying waynes, Dillmannaircraft@aol.com

    Reply: 22 June, 2006 - Gene Mendez worked many years with Joe Seitz. They had a fantastic performance. 1961 they were with circus Scott in Sweden. Then they were some years with the great german circus Krone. 1966 they were with circus Schumann in Sweden and in Denmark. 1967 they were with circus Scott again and 1968 with circus Knie in Switserland. Later Gene Mendez performed alone. I remember him from a short visit to the amusement park Linnanmäki in Helsinki Finland. He was one of the greatest high wire artist of his time. Lindfors Peter HKI/Kir, Peter.Lindfors@hel.fi


232. Resources freak shows, carnivals, fairs, August 20, 2004 - Once Again I face the problem of too much information via Internet, so I browse and click and search and find and finally land on this here homepage and think I am Just in the right place to ask this question:
Is there ONE book (or probably 5 books) about the history of american travelling fairs, freak shows and carnevals, giving a little view back to europe, probably even to the comedia dell'arte and then focuses on the topic of price wrestling and it's alte development? Thanks a lot, Ben, parkwaechter@kabsi.at. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: September 13, 2004 - You might want to look at my two books: Girl Show and Seeing Is Believing. Both have chapters dealing with how European shows reflected how the midway business evolved in America. Both are published by ECW PRESS. Try Amazon.com. Girl Show is almost out of print. A.(Al) W. Stencell


231. Circus Carlo Brothers, August 20, 2004 - The Nort American Circus of the brothers Carlo was in the Argentina (Hermanos Carlo) in 1884 and was responsavel by the first spectacle criollo (gaucho) in the america of the south. In 1886 went for Brazil. It like to receive more information of the Carlo Circus. [also see message 69] Thanks, Gustavo Guilherme Carlo. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: November 20, 2004 - From Wiliam L . Slout, "Olympians of the Sawdust Circle," San Bernardino, CA: Borgo Press, 1998. p.43. Carlo Family [Felix, George, William, Frederick, Leo, Harry, Amelia, Fanny, Hattie]. Gymnasts and clowns. Felix (r. n. William Lawrence, 1810?-March 28, 1884) was born in London of French-English descent. Joined an English circus as a gymnast at an early age and for a number years performed on the British Isles. Principal member of a French circus troupe in Paris, 1844 to 1846. Latter year, came to the USA and made a debut at the Bowery Amphitheatre, NYC, October 19. Two of his specialties were dancing on his head and the ladder flight. Henry Rockwell's, 1847; Spalding & Rogers, 1849-51; Robinson & Eldred, 1852; Castle Garden, NYC, October 23, 1854; S. B. Howes', 1855; H. P. Madigan's, 1856; John Tryon's, Bowery Circus, around 1857-58; Whitby's, 1859. Last connection with circus performing, Niblo's Garden, spring 1861, under the management of James M. Nixon. Remainder of his career was devoted to theatrical appearances. Died in NYC, age 74. William (d. September 14, 1879), an acrobat, managed the Carlo Brothers' Circus for many years with his brothers, touring Australia and California. Married actress Fanny Brown in San Francisco, 1866. Bailey & Co., Spalding & Rogers' Academy of Music, New Orleans, winter 1863-64, this being the first equestrian exhibition in that city in 3 years; Wilson, Zoyara & Carlo, California, 1864; John Wilson's, Australia (and remained behind when Wilson took his troupe to India), 1866-67; Chiarini's, South America, winter 1869-70; Olympic Theatre, NYC, with his brothers, 1874-75; P. T. Barnum's, 1876. Organized a circus with his brothers to tour South America. Much time in later years devoted to training horses. Died at Kingston, Jamaica, of Bright's disease. Carlo Brothers (William, Frederick, George) continued to be favorites in South America. Chiarini's,Hippotheatron, NYC, 1872; organized a tour for South America, 1876, and sailed from New York in January, 1877. [M. B. Leavitt: "It was the strongest array of circus talent ever united for such a tour. It embraced many of the principal performers of Barnum's, Castello's, Coup's, and various other shows. Every member was capable of presenting 3 or more acts, as it was necessary to change the program nightly in the Spanish speaking countries,and the performers had to be generally versatile."] The Carlo Family (George, Fred, Harry, Amelia, Hattie), equestrians and gymnasts, Orrin Bros.', Mexico, winter 1880-81; Shelby, Pullman & Hamilton, 1881. Carlo children were Leo, Hattie, Harry. Carlo, Fanny. See Fanny Brown. Carlo, Leo. Rider. Apprentice of George Carlo. See Carlo Family. Carlo, Nicolo. Juggler, with Rosston, Springer & Henderson, 1871.
          [Page 33] Brown, Fanny. Daughter of Thomas McFarland (r. n. William Brown). Acrobat, Ross & Carlo, 1865; left with John Wilson's for the Southwest Pacific, September 1865. Married William Carlo, San Francisco, 1866. Chiarini's, South and Central America, 1869; manège and pantomimist, Carlo Bros.', South America, 1876.
          Brown, Frank. English clown, equestrian. The son of Henry Brown, clown and circus proprietor. Orrin Bros.', Mexico, winter 1880-81; Shelby, Pullman &Hamilton, 1881; Cantelli & Leons, Havana, Cuba, winter 1882-83.
          Today the family carlo lives in the city of the Rio de Janeiro, Brazil and still has connections with the circus, walter carlo is Teacher of the national school of circus in Rio de Janeiro, the brothers: Aldo arlo, Jorge carlo, Norma carlo lives at the same city, his sons: Gustavo Guilherme Carlo, Jorge Basilio Carlo, Edgard Basilio Carlo.


230. Boganny Troupe (Clifton), August 19, 2004 - I am looking for any information regarding Joe Boganny & The Boganny Troupe of comedy acrobats, Joe brother was Josh Clifton also in the same business both born early 1870's England. Their father also an acrobat, he was Raslus b.abt 1843 Canada possibly,also went by the names Frank Clifton and Frank Lazarus. Please visit my web-site for more detailed information. Any little snippet will do. Thanks James in UK, jrb@bohun29.freeserve.co.uk. Joe Boganny & Clifton Family website. www.zyworld.com/JamesBohun/index.htm. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.

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229. Seils-Sterling Circus, August 17, 2004 - A question about the Seils-Sterling Circus. I'm trying to find info and especially photos of the Seils-Sterling Circus, based in Wisconsin, Sheboygan or Milwaukee, around 1900 - 1930. I remember my father talking about his grandmother's family owning the circus. The name would be Lindemann. Also, an uncle who was a clown (Okershauser)? I suspect my grandfather, William/Walter McChesney, was also employed by the circus. Any info would be helpful! Julie McChesney, mcchesneyj@msn.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 17, 2004 - According to Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses 1793-2000: The Lindemanns were proprietors 1922-1938. Titles were Sells-Sterling Circus (1922-1925), Capt. William Sells & Sterling Bros. Circus (1922-1926), Seils-Sterling (1922-1938 Al, Pete and Bill Lindemann proprietors). After 1938 no Lindemanns associated with this circus title. There was the Lindemann Bros. Circus (1921 Pete, Bill and Al Lindemann proprietors). And the even earlier Yankee American Circus (1908-1920 Al, Pete and Bill Lindemann proprietors). Have you looked at Dahlinger, Fred, Jr. & Thayer, Stuart L., Badger State Showmen: A History of Wisconsin's Circus Heritage, 1998? My guess is that you could get this on inter-library loan if your library doesn't have a copy. The Circus World Museum library would undoubtedly have information on this Wisconsin-based circus. Read the information regarding the status of this library on the main page of this website and call the toll-free number to see if you can obtain information on the Lindemann circuses with the information given from Parkinson. J. Griffin
    Reply: August 24, 2004 - The Lindeman Brothers are written up in Richard E. Conover, The Circus: Wisconsin's Unique Heritage, Baraboo, WI: State Historical Society of Wisconsin & Circus World Museum, 1967, pp 44-45. Bill and Pete began their circus careers before 1905. They took their first show out in Sheboygan, WI on May 4, 1920. Supposedly there were ten Lindemans in the circus, counting wives and children. J. Griffin.
    Reply: 12 December, 2005 - My great uncles were Bill, Al, and Pete Lindemann of the Seils-Sterling Circus. In a family album there are pictures of them practicing in my grandparent's backyard. At the Sheboygan County Historical Society, 3110 Erie Avenue, Sheboygan, WI 53081 (920-458-1103) there are displays about the circus including pictures and artifacts. There is also a VHS video called Circus Echoes with actual footage of the circus that was available from the Historical Society (I have a copy if there are none available from the historical society). The three surviving grandchildren of Pete Lindemann who performed in the circus are Sonya, Shirley, and Peter. Sonya was responsible for the production of the video and the displays at the historical society. Walter McChesney was a cousin of my father's, Carl Lindemann, Jr. He was not involved with the circus. For additional information, you may contact me at: lindseycc@missouri.edu. Candy Lindsey, University of MO - Columbia.


228. Clyde Beatty, Palisades Park, August 17, 2004 - I am trying to find the early season Clyde Beatty action that took place at Palisades Amusement Park in the mid 1950's or early 1960's. White Tops Magazines lists the following notes concerning Palisades Park: 1957 Show (at Palisades Amusement Park) Flaherty, Will A. 1957 30 #3 p.10 Hamid Morton and Hunt Brothers 1957; 1957 Show (at Palisades Amusement Park) Flaherty, Will A. 1957 30 #3 p.10 Hunt Bros and Hamid Mortong 1957; Reveal's Show's AIms Report on Palisades Situation 1961 34 #1 p.17 Hunt Bros. 1961 Hunt, Harry; Palisades Park Featured 12 Aerial Acts (Nocks;Tajana ) Hall, Bill 1961 34 #5 p.28 Parks 1961; Scores Again in Palisades Opener Flaherty, Will A. 1959 32 #2 p.7 Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros 1959. If anyone considers themselves a Clyde Beatty historian or authority in the 1950's, relative to the early spring engagements they had in Palisades park, please contact me. There was a sensational promotion they used to compete against Barnum & Baily in one of these seasons, and I could use a little help. It may have occurred in Ike's second term on opening day of baseball. (it was not 1956). Thanks, steve balbo, sbalbo@perforce.com, santa cruz, CA. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 28, 2004 - The Clyde Beatty Circus opened at Palisades Park Apr 4 to May 4, 1958 and for this date was billed as Clyde Beatty & Hamid-Morton Circus. The owners of the Beatty show added the Cole Bros title to the show in 1959 and Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros opened there March 27 to May 10, 1959 billed for this date as Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros & Hamid-Morton Circus. The show again played (but did not open the season) there April 14 to May 21, 1961 simply as Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros Circus. Regards, DP.


227. Barnum & Bailey, England, August 15, 2004 - Barnum & Bailey British performance: I have a framed Barnum & Bailey ticket for Thursday afternoon, October 12 at the Amphitheatre. There is no other information on the ticket except price. I know that this was before the Ringling Bros. joinder and was in Great Britain because of the ticket price, 2/. Can anyone access the route books of the show dates to see if a match occurs with the available info? I would love to know the year and city. Any info would be helpful. Donald N. Spurrier, Alabama, spurrier@hiwaay.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 15, 2004 - If I remember correctly, the route book for Barnum & Bailey in Europe 1897-1901 is at the Circus World Museum Parkinson library. It is currently uncertain whether there is anyone there who could look up the information for you. Contact information regarding the library is on the main page of this website. You might try phoning them on their toll free number and ask about obtaining this information. I suspect the item you have was during their five years in Europe, not their winter season in England in 1889-90. J. Griffin
    Reply: August 16, 2004 - Barnum & Bailey's The Greatest Show On Earth ended it's American tour on October 9 in Philadelphia, Pa. The show shipped to England and Winter Quartered in Stroke-on-Trent. On December 27 to April 2 it played the Olympia in London. On October 12, 1898, the circus was in Macelesfield, England. In 1899, Barnum & Bailey played Lancaster, England on October 12. In 1900, Mr. Bailey brought the circus in Germany and was in Frankfort-on Main on October 12. The following year, on October 12, Barnum & Bailey was playing the city of Verviers. In 1902, it's last year on the European Continent, Barnum & Bailey played Amiens, France on October 12. The use of the word "AMPHITHEATER" is ambiguous and might designate "THE BIG TOP". As for the price of admission, 2/ would have been seating near the end of the hippodrome and 1/ being the cheapest price. Unless specified, your ticket was emitted either from Macelesfield or Lancaster. Giovanni Iuliani.


226. Samuel Kalson - Bargate Circus, August 15, 2004 - My great-uncle, Samuel Kalson, was a clown in the traveling circus in England. He died in Bristol while traveling with the Bargate circus in 1953. I would interested in information about the Bargate circus (is there a written history) and, of course, about Samuel Kalson. Philip Kalson, philip@kalsonfamily.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


225. 1908 circus in Walla Walla, Washington, August 14, 2004 - I have an elderly friend who was born on August 13, 1908. She says she remembers being told that the Ringling Bros. circus was in Walla Walla, Washington on that day and a baby elephant was born. I have tried to find out if this circus was, in fact, in Walla Walla but all I can find out is that in 1908 the Gentry Bros. had an animal show in Walla Walla and in 1909 the Ringling Bros. circus came to Ellensburg, Washington. Does anyone know about the birth of an elephant on that day and what became of it? Vona Priest, Canada, vpriest@midbc.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 14, 2004 - Ringling Bros World's Greatest Show played in Walla Walla, Wash. on August 15, 1907. The circus was absent from the state of Washington in 1908. It visited Ellensburg, Wash. on August 14, 1909. Giovanni Iuliani.
    Reply: 23 August, 2005 - Until fairly recent times, only about a dozen elephants had actually been born in the United States, although circuses frequently exhibited newly-imported young elephants as having been born on the show. Those who have spent time researching this matter believe that the fifth birth in this country was in 1902 at Ringling's quarters in Baraboo, Wisconsin, and that the sixth such was in 1912 on Sells-Floto Circus in Salinas, California. Apparently there were no elephant births at all during the period when your friend was born. Regards, Ole Whitey


224. Laura-Lee Koepp, bareback horse rider, August 13, 2004 - My aunt, Laura-Lee Koepp, was a bareback horse rider with the Clyde Beatty circus somewhere around 1947-48. I would like to know if anyone has photos of the horse riders around this time that I could view. I have been getting some good stories from her, and have even managed to find an unused promotional ticket to the show from 1947, but she has no pictures left. Norm Wray, normanwray@mac.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


223. Ritchie's Traveling Circus, August 12, 2004 - My father was in a small traveling circus, Billy Ritchie's Traveling Circus, around the 1920's? I believe it was on the east coast. He jumped off a 110 ft. tower into a tank of water w/ flames on his back. I would love to get some info. about it. Anyone know anything about it? Thanks for your time, framergal@verizon.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: November 01, 2004 - William E. Billie Ritchie was a trick cyclist in vaudeville and revues, died May 13, 1943. Obituaries are in Variety, May 19, 1943 and Billboard, May 22, 1943, page 27 and likely elsewhere. He died at age 71, at home in the Bronx, survived by widow and partner May Villiam. Burial was in Kensico Cemetery, New York. He had teamed with W. C. Fields in a minstrel show, "Gay New York," at the Casino theater, NY 1897-1898. He married Villiam [also Villion] in 1901. They toured Europe, played with the Ziegfield Follies of 1917, which featured Eddie Cantor, Will Rogers, W. C. Fields and Marilyn Miller. His last performance was at the Fall River, MA Casino, Christmas 1942. One of the Kelty photos reproduced by Howard Tibbals and Bob MacDougall shows one of the Ritchie traveling troupes. He was also a friend to Philadelphia carousel builder William H. Dentzel and managed the Dentzel ride at Thompson park, Rockaway Beach in the late 1920s. Fred Dahlinger


222. Circus California 1900s, August 11, 2004 - I am trying to obtain information about a circus that was based in, what is now, North Hollywood California. I have been told that the old house (built around 1914) that is behind mine was originally owned by someone in aviation and that after that, at some time, the house was owned by a circus and that where my property sits is where the animals were trained. The current owners moved into the house in 1952, so I know that the circus was prior to that year. The address is 6854 Bellaire Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91605 (my address is 6843 Teesdale). North Hollywood is now part of the City of Los Angeles but was called Lankershim until 1927. Is there some kind of directory or list of circus names from the early 20th century? Do you know the name of the circus that I'm looking for or can you tell me how to find it on my own? Thank you, Phil, phil@philwaynedesigns.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 11, 2004 - You might want to check the land records for the two addresses to get the names of owners pre-1952. Should be at your city/county records office? Potential names might help find the names of person(s) who were possibly involved in the circus. Otherwise you are dealing with a very broad time period. Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses 1793-2000 lists many circuses in the 1900s, but no information on their location. Have you checked with your local library, historical society on information they might have on this? Sounds like a winter quarters or where a circus housed their animals for their circus. J. Griffin.
    Reply: November 01, 2004 - This might be a structure associated with the Al G. Barnes circus, which wintered in the LA area. There is coverage in back issues of Bandwagon of the Culver City, Baldwin Park and other Barnes LA quarters. One makes definite reference to a surviving home-type structure. Fred Dahlinger.


221. William Gore, August 10, 2004 - William "Bill" Gore (d. 1916) worked for the Barnum and Bailey circus and also the John Robinson Circus. I have 3 questions: 1. His obituary says he was a canvas man. It also says he was a privilege man. What do those terms mean? 2. I'd like to know if the Robinson circus ever toured with an Indian chief because my father remembered that his uncle was traveling with the Robinson circus when it came to Findlay, Ohio or somewhere in NW Ohio, and during the visit my father was introduced to an Indian chief. Who was the chief? 3. My father also says "Bill" traveled with a dead whale but he didn't remember why and how that came about. Any suggestions for finding information on that odiferous memory would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Merry Valentin, vfrank2@qwest.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 10, 2004 - There is one entry for a William Gore in Bill Slout's Olympians. It states that this William Gore was an assistant manager, L. J. Duchack's, 1889. The L. J. Duchak circus was in operation 1888-1889. This does not indicate that this William Gore wasn't on other shows and held different roles. If the Parkinson library at Circus World Museum (now Circus World) is ever back in operation at Baraboo, they might have information on your William Gore, especially if he was a privileges man. Toll free to check the status of the currently closed Parkinson library is 1-866-693-1500. J. Griffin.
    Reply: September 13, 2004 - If William Gore was referred to as a "privilege man" he would have worked either in concessions or with the grift on the show. He could have been a 'candy butcher' - one who sells food items or novelties to the circus public inside the circus tent. He could also have worked in a concession stand on the midway. People who managed the individual concession stands on the circus were called "stand men." A stand man ran the stand (i.e.: flukum joint - drinks made from powdered crystals and water) and ran butchers from the stand to sell his particular item inside the big top. Privilege on shows meant that you received P.C. or a percentage on the money you got from selling items or conning someone from it. All the front end on early circuses including the side show, pit shows, grift and concessions were leased out to private individuals for a percentage of the daily take. For a few decades this also included the after show concert and the selling or prize candy. Often grift would use working men as sticks or outside men on the various games run by the grift such as gambling wheels, three card monte, shell games, etc. Stand men often used working men to help make up stock: i.e. bag peanuts, blow up balloons, chop ice, etc. Almost everyone working on the front end of the show worked on percentage -i.e. side show ticket sellers, the side show manager, the concession men, the butchers, the grift, the concert producer, pit show managers etc. AWS.


220. 1944 Hartford Fire, August 10, 2004 - I am researching the 1944 Hartford Fire. Just starting out. Can anyone share narratives? pics? etc? All will be given proper acknowledgement and credits. Please, even if you think it may not be much, IT MIGHT! Email me at kimbraman1961@yahoo.com. Thanks! Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 10, 2004 - Have you checked www.hartfordcircusfire.com?
    Reply: August 28, 2004 - July 6, 1944 is a date that will forever be remembered as the greatest American circus disaster of all times. Many articles and books have been written about the tragedy. Among the books written on the Hartford circus fire there are: Hoehling, Adolph A., Disaster: Major American Catastrophes, Hawthorn Books, 1973. Cohn, Henry S. and Bollier, David, The Great Hartford Circus Fire, Yale University Press, 1991. Smith, Mary-Ann Tirone, Master of Illusion: A Novel of the Connecticut Circus Fire, Warner Books, 1994. O'Nan, Stewart, Circus Fire: The True Story of an American Tradegy, Doubleday, 2000. Janeczko, Paul B. Worlds Afire: The Hartford Circus Fire of 1944, Candlewick Press, 2004. Massey, Don and Davey, Rick, A Matter of Degree: The Hartford Circus Fire and the Mystery of Little Miss 1565, Willow Book Press, 2002. Giovanni Iuliani.

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219. Stillson Asbury Morrill, strongman, August 08, 2004 - I am looking for any information regarding the title "strongman" as it related to a circus in the 1860s and 1870s. Was a "strongman" a circus performer or did he work as a member of the circus crew in some other capacity? I am specifically looking for information regarding Stillson Asbury Morrill who was supposed to be a circus strongman, probably about 1863-1870 in or near Ohio and Illinois. It is possible he died in some kind of circus accident. The circus he was associated with is unknown. Any information regarding "strongman" or Stillson Asbury MORRILL would be greatly appreciated. Rose M. Sellick, UT, NorseNames@aol.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


218. Nora Hildebrandt, Tattooed Lady, August 06, 2004 - I am trying to track down a copy of the pamphlet "Miss Nora Hildebrandt, The Tattooed Lady," apparently printed in 1882. I would just like a see a copy of it, as it would further my research. Thanks, Amelia Klem, amelia@uwm.edu. Respond to this message
    Reply: August 10, 2004 - One more thing to add- apparently, Robert Bogdan, author of "Freak Show: Presenting Human Oddities for Amusement and Profit", owns a copy of it, as cited by Margot Mifflin in her book, "Bodies of Subversion." thanks, Amelia Klem.


217. Alexander Goutsmit, August 06, 2004 - Hello , Would any one have any information on Alexander Goutsmit an Equestrian who I believe was in England in 1900 his father was Gerard Goutsmit also an Equestrian. Any info would be grateful. Ray, England, rayperkin@blueyonder.co.uk. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: September 01, 2004 - I have in the genealogy of the Blumenfeld circus and family that I'm trying to piece together one Gerard Goudsmit, so written with a d, 'Trickreiter' (Trickrider) married Verene Blumenfeld in 1882, then nineteen. Must be the same one, no? Gerard Goudsmit was Dutch, from Oss in Brabant (no birthyear alas) but worked in Germany with Circus Blumenfeld and later Circus Jansky, owned by J. Bradna in the early 1900's, 1908-10 there with a 'Cossack' style riding group that might have contained his sons. That is all I have on him though. Most of the Blumenfelds were murdered in the holocaust, apart from a few that emigrated to America in the middle of the 1930's. Natasha Gerson, nani@xs4all.nl.
    Reply: October 29, 2004 - Just discovered this, there seem to be a lot of different types of spelling for this name! From: The Era, London, 26th May, 1867: Madame Rose Gerard Goudschmidt, who is the premiere equestrienne of the Cirque Napoleon, performed gracefully a 'trick act' in the first part, which included some astonishing flights over flags and through paper balloons, about twenty of which were dashed through without a single misadventure (...) Mons. Gerard Goudschmidt, of the Cirque Napoleon, takes a very extraordinary 'tunnel flight', through a series of connected hoops, eight-feet long, passing through them with a somersault and alighting on the back of his horse whilst galloping round the circle. This is another of the peculiar feats which will render these performances talked of for their daring and dexterity. Natasha Gerson.
    Reply: 06-Jan-05 - Hello Alexander if Gerard Goudsmith is the father of Rosa Gerard Goudsmith married with Alexander Blumenfeld, who lived in Fåborg, Denmark and died here - I have information I am Jette Goldkette Sørensen (female) live in Denmark, and my ancestor was Wulff Levi (Levi or Louis Goldkette) born 1778-1833 mechanicus - circus Goldkette and the family Goldkette was in old days married with Blumenfelds, Strassburger, Gaudsmith, Gautier and some live in USA: Gaudsmiths, Krivor, Goldkette - here in Denmark: Goldkette Sørensen, and in Sweden: Henry og Robert Bronett, circus Scott. Just e mail me and I will reply you with kind regards Jette, jetgold@webspeed.dk.
    Reply: 07-Jan-05 - Hello Ray - you look for informations about Alexander Goudsmith - just see my reply to you of yesterday regards Jette Goldkette Sørensen, Denmark. Re reply October 29th 2004 from Natasha Gerson. The Era, London, 26th Mai 1867 Madame Rose Gerard Goudsmith, Monsiur Gerard Goudsmith = sister and brother. = Meijer Goudsmith born abt 1802-1808 married with Leentje Blanus - Children:
    1. Rose (Rosa) Goudsmith, 2. Jeanette Goudsmith, 3. Gerson (Gerard) Goudsmith born 9 feb 1838 Donkerstraat parish, 4. Joseph Goudsmith born 1844.
    2. Jeanette Goudsmith married Louis Goldkette born 5 juni 1834 Kirstin, Germany d. 1895 Avignon, France, Children: Alfred Goldkette, Benois Goldkette, Chon Gaston Goldkette, Virginie Goldkette, Angeline Goldkette (mother to John Jean Goldkette, very famous jazz/orchestra-leader in USA, go on internet (Jean Goldkette) and see him), Mina Goldkette, Franconi Louis Goldkette, Clara Goldkette, Baptiste Goldkette (Benois and Baptiste called them The 2 comedians Goldkette-Thereses), Eline Goldkette - most of them emigrated to USA.
    3. Gerson (Gerard) Goudsmith born 1838 - I think he married several times, because he have the daughter: Rosa Eugine Hortence Goudsmith married with Hugo Alexander Blumenfeld (both died in Fåborg, Denmark), their son: Daniel Blumenfeld = the very famous white clown and what my grandmother told me, very handsome too.- Daniel have 2 sons: Gusti and Willi Blumenfeld (Daniels). From a old newspaper I had several copies of the family incl. Rosas funeral surrounded by her husbondAlexander, their son Daniel with wife and their very handsome sons. many regards from Jette Goldkette Sørensen, Denmark
    Reply: 10-Jan-05 - Hello again Ray. I think I found Alexander Goudsmith for you? - as Alphonse Goudsmith - his family: Gerson Gerard Goudsmith b 9 feb 1838 Donkerstraat Parish D - dead 26 feb 1925 Villa Helene Ellebek near Pinneburg married with??? - Children: 1. Helen Elisabeth Goudsmith born 1875 - 2. Sascha Goudsmith - 3. Alphonse Goudsmith, married with Dolinda de la Plata born 9 mai 1871 Argentina, also married with Jlona Juhasz. As I told you before Alphonses father: Gerson Gerard G. married several times? We dont know the mothers name of Alphonse. but I know Gerson (Gerard) 1838-1925 was married with Rosanne Masotta, children: Rosa Eugine Hortence Goudsmit (Rosa Gerard-Goudsmith) 1865-1942 married 1892 with Hugo Alexander Blumenfeld 1863-1949, child: Daniel Blumenfeld, white clown. jetgold@webspeed.dk [Note: attachment, Alexander Blumenfeld og Rosa Gerard-Goudsmit.jpg, photo, could not be posted on this discussion board]

    Reply: 17 October, 2006 - Hi, I am Volker Goudschmidt (*1966), son of Dieter Goudschmidt (*1940). My grandfather was Kurt Goudschmidt (died in the war 1944 in Estonia). Alexander Goudschmidt had 2 sons, Kurt, my grandfather and Wolfgang, his Brother. timtom, timtom@die-optimisten.net

    Reply: 16 November, 2006 - Reply to Volker Goudschmidt - Maybe it is your family? Gerard (Gerardus) Goudsmith born 1838 marriet to ?? - 3 children: Helen Elisabeth, Sascha, Alphonse (Alexander) born 1878 married 1 time: Ilona Juhasz - 2 : Maria Dolinda Roba (Dolinda de la Plata) Question: is Alexander 1878 your great grandfather? if yes - who is your - grandmother? Jette Goldkette Sørensen

    Reply: 21 November, 2006 - Volker Goudschmidt - your reply 17 oct 2006 - my reply 16 nov 2006 - please answer my questions of 16 nov and if you have more informations - jetgold@webspeed.dk

    Reply: 25 November, 2006 - Thanks to everyone who has answered my question. The Alexander Gerard Goutsmit I am interested in married my Great Grandmother Dolinda Marie Robba in 1900 in Soho London UK on the 7th June. I am trying to find out if or when they divorced or if there is any record of them performing in the circus together prior to their wedding. rayperkin@hotmail.com

    Reply: 07 December, 2006 - I am replying to the request 217 about Alexander Gerard Goutsmit who married my great grandmother Dolinda Maria Roba on the seventh June 1900 in Soho London. I would like to thank all that have replied to the original request. What I am trying to find out is if they performed together either before they married or after, did they have children? Where did they move to. My new email is rayperkin@hotmail.com


216. Tom Thumb, August 06, 2004 - I am looking for a collector who specializes in General Tom Thumb memorabilia. I believe I may have one of his original business cards but I need some help to verify it. Any assistance would be greatly appreciated. David Backovitch, Illinois, boutnsold@aol.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 07, 2004 - An expert on Tom Thumb is Christopher Coenen, 245 N. Undermountain Road, Sheffield, MA 01257.
    Reply: September 07, 2004 - Try the Harry Hertzburg private collection here in San Antonio, Tx. They had an exhibit with Tom Thumb displays. Contact curator of the Witte Museum: Michaele Haynes, Ph.D., 3801 Broadway, San Antonio, Tx 78209, Michaelehaynes@wittemuseum.org. - Syl02via@aol.com.


215. Clinton Wilson, Ringling Bros., August 05, 2004 - Clinton "Curly" Wilson of Ringling Brothers Wild West Show. I am seeking information on this gentleman who allegedlly worked in the show in the 1890's. Any help would be appreciated. Thank you. Bob Boyd, Colorado, JRBOBBOYD@aol.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 07, 2004 - I can't confirm if Wilson was with Ringling Bros. World's Greatest Shows, but he wrote the Billboard in 1936 [issue of April 11, 1936, page 41] wherein he stated that he was with the 1897 Hummel, Hamilton & Sells show. A scan of the letters columns might reveal other references to Wilson. Slout's "Olympians of the Sawdust Circle" lists several Wilsons that might be the man in question, but I doubt that the well known Wilson of the Ringling staff was the same as Curly Wilson. Fred Dahlinger.


212. Benny Fox, Human Fly etc., August 04, 2004 - I am looking for information regarding the career of a Ringling Brother's circus performer whose name was Benny Fox. He would have been performing from about 1940-1970. I believe that he was known as Benny Fox the Human Fly and that he also worked with a partner. He had a perch act as well did a high wire act. Any information that you could provide regarding him would be greatly appreciated. Brian Schultz, bschultz@uwc.edu. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: 02-Jan-05 - I too am looking for information about Benny Fox. I just published "Marion" (Arcadia Publishing - Images of America Series) and one of the images in the book is of Betty Fox (Benny's partner/wife?/sister?) posing on top of the Hotel Harding in Marion Ohio with the Godino conjoined twins. Betty is listed on the post card as the "World Champion Flagpole sitter." Would love to find out more about Betty, but I also would like to learn about Benny Fox. I do know that Benny Fox had his own small circus for a while. stude62@yahoo.com.
    Reply: 02-Jan-05 - Recently I had a conversation with Tommy Hanneford and he noted that he worked for Benny Fox for a few years when he came out of the U.S. Army at the end of World War II. Benny Fox put together a circus that only traveled between U.S. Army bases, thus they were all sponsored dates, and may be difficult to trace. Tommy said that the act left the show when his father retired and turned over the famous family coat to Tommy. John Polacsek

    Reply: 26 March, 2006 - I found your question from a the Circus History website regarding Benny and Betty Fox. I am the niece of Betty Fox. She was the dance partner of Benny's on the small 18-inch disk 120-150 ft in the air. They danced together for years and have many newspaper articles from their performances in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Betty was not Benny's sister. I believe they were married, but not sure. Betty did this performing during the ages of 18 to 21, I believe. Betty is still living, but she is very private. I don't know much about Beeny other than he was Russian. I do know the both of them kept in impecable shape. The 2 of them were a good match as they both stood 5'4 1/2" tall. This helped balance them on the 18-inch disk. Did you know they also did their act blindfolded? K. A., Sacramento, CA

    Reply: 17 July, 2006 - I had the honor of meeting Betty and Benny Fox about 53 years ago when they performed for the Fiesta in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, NY. My uncle brought them to our house and we were all introduced to them. I think they stayed overnight with the family because they were still there the next day. Maybe my uncle knew them personally but I don't know as I was only 10 at the time. But I do believe they were married because when introduced they said Mr. and Mrs. Fox. I remember this well because my Mother was watching them from the third floor window and she said while they did their act there was a flash of light in the sky far behind them. The next day it was on the news that an aircraft exploded in the night sky. I must tell you that Betty and Benny Fox was the most amazing act I have ever seen in my life. TAKrantz@aol.com

    Reply: 27 November, 2006 - I saw Benny and Betty Fox perform in the early '50's, atop the Senger Building in downtown Peru, Indiana. They attached a very long pole on top of the building with a small platform on top of it. They danced and did many stunts. After the performance, several hours later, I was on my way to a grocery store. I saw them living in a small travel trailer and spoke to them. They were quite a thrilling duo, even in a noted "Circus City" atmosphere. AJB

    Reply: 20 February, 2007 - Brian and all the other folks that responded. Sorry I did not see this one sooner, but I'm just going back through all the messages! I was Betty and Benny Fox's spotlight man for a week at Santa Cruz Boardwalk in CA. in the early 60's. I was assigned to run a surplus Navy signal light with a powerful bulb and the louvers stuck open as a spotlight for many travelling circus acts that came in for a week at a time in the summer...each did their specialities...this one was the most hair raising...as advertized it was an "Adagio of Death" both of them doing ballroom dancing on an 18" platform at least 100 feet off the ground. Including a Tango finishing with Betty hanging just over the edge! My view was the best! I was on a platform on top of the fun house! I had to wear asbestos gloves, since the thing was very hot.
          Benny introduced me to his wife, so that argument is over! Betty was one of the nicest folks I ever met. At the end of the run he gave me an envelope with 10 silver dollars in it. He said I did a good job of 'breathing with them'...I had no choice...every time I watched my heart was in my throat!...but I used this technique with many others after that.
          I also operated for Malikova, a high wire thriller and the Aerial Hustries (Possible bad spelling there), that used twin sway poles...again about 100 feet off the sand. They used to exchange poles as part of the act! I operated for all the variety acts as well...all in all it was a great job!...and got me hooked on Circus folks...I'm looking for a photo in my archives I acquired after the circus acts were abandoned for Rock and Rollof Betty and Benny...when I find it I'll share with you folks. Keep 'em rolling! R.T. Carr, New CHS Member.

    Reply: 23 March, 2007 - R.T. if you come up with a picture of Benny and Betty from the early 60's, I would love to know how to get a copy of the photo. Thanks for responding. Brian

    Reply: 28 April 2007 - Brian, I saw your post about Benny Fox on the circus website. I am fairly certain that he is my great uncle. His real last name was Kupolov. If you can share any information with me, I would greatly appreciate it. Thanks, Ed Linker

    Reply: 09 May 2007 - Ed, my experiences with Benny were in the mid to late 1970's when we were both residents of the Silver Moon Motel in Buena Park, CA. Benny was living there in retirement and I ended up there temporarily for a year getting my life together as a young man in his 20's. I would take him to run his daily errands in the morning and would then play piano for the melodramas at Knott's Berry Farm down the road in the afternoons and evenings. Benny had known Walter and Cordelia Knott and had done some performing at their business. As a result, he could get free passes to their amusement park and would often treat families who would be staying at the Silver Moon Motel. Benny would tell me tales of his performing career and about the famous people he had met along the way i.e. Mae West, Burt Lancaster, Hitler. He would often support his stories with pictures and newspaper articles that he had saved for decades. I recently communicated with his grand daughter, but we have now lost contact. Benny was quite a character and the two of us were good friends in spite of our age differences. He took me backstage when the Ringling Bros. Circus came to Anaheim, CA. Lou Jacobs was still working for them as a clown and he and Benny were old buddies. He introduced us backstage to the various circus performers - who made a bit of a fuss over Benny when they heard who he was. Have you gathered much information to date about your great uncle? Brian

    Reply: 01 Nov 2007 - I am Benny Fox’s grandson and do have many memories and some photos as well. Betty was in fact several different ladies over the early years, she was sometimes billed as his wife and later in life as his daughter. My “aunt” Betty Garancher (though this may not be the right spelling) was the true Betty. She was amazing, beautiful, talented, and handmade all of her spectacular costumes. I was too young to have met any of the early Bettys. My grandfather had all the girls changed their name to Betty because of the act and the way the names sounded together. He was quite the showman. I met many celebrities though him even though I was very young. All of my uncles and my mother were born on the road in various locations wherever the circus happened to be. The family eventually settled in New York City, though my grandfather was on the road almost all year. He continued to work into his eighties and occasionally would show up on some T.V. show such as Ed Sullivan or Johnny Carson. He passed away in the late 1970’s. My grandfather had many relatives and family I never met as they were all over the country. I would love to hear from anyone, relative or other who might remember my grandfather or his death defying act. My email is davidodwy@comcast.net.

    Reply: 14 Jan 2008 - This is proof that you can pretty much find anything on the internet. I purchased a 100 year old book at a tag sale and tucked in the pages was a handbill titled, "The Life of Betty & Benny Fox Sky Dancers: World's Greatest Aerial Sensation." There is a picture of the 2 cheek to cheek and below is a short bio of each (Betty born in 1919, Benny Born in...) I assume that this is the real Betty? Below it says "Good luck and Best wishes To our Dear friends, Betty and Benny Fox" On the back is a photo of the 2 in costume in performance on the small platform in mid "Tango Dip". Interestingly, it appears to be autographed. I found this site trying to determine the age of the advertisement. 30's 40's? At the bottom Bill Lewis is listed as their manager. Thank you to the previous replies, I got what I wanted from the old book, a brief mystery solved, and a little bit of 20th century history. Greg VA, videomartyr@gmail.com

    Reply: 30 Jan 2008 - I saw "Benny and Betty" Fox perform in Chattanooga in the very early 40's. My Dad had brought them in to perform on top of a 50-75’ high tower as an advertising stunt for a department store. A 30' plywood disk was their stage. They skated and did some scary balancing acts. The tower was on top of a three story building at the corner of Market & 7th Street. A huge crowd enjoyed the show. Dad was given their disk as a memento. He brought it home and one day I tried to duplicate some of the stunts. I fell and hit my head on a glass drawer pull causing a severe head injury – well, lots of blood anyway. I’ll never forget Benny & Betty as the scar remains to this day. Chuck Chamberlin, Chattanooga, Tn


211. Iron Jaw Act, Doris Lee/Marie Pirlot, August 04, 2004 - I was searching the web for the Robinson circus, as my Grandmother was a circus performer and I believe it was with the Robinson Circus. She did an iron jaw act and I think she may have used the name Doris Lee. Her real name was Marie Pirlot, and it would have been around 1920. My Dad donated all of her circus memorabilia after she died to the Baraboo Circus Museum. Unfortunately, he seems to have given away everything, and I can't locate any information about her. My husband contacted the museum, but they really can't help. Is there somewhere I can go, or someone I can contact to try to get some information. Thank You, Sandi Dias, sandidias@yahoo.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 06, 2004 - The place you need to contact is the Circus World Library, which has unfortunately in a "transition period." they are now going to be open by appointment only and will be staffed by volunteers, but most likely, if the museum was dontaed the stuff, it may be in the library. Try emailing the regular address and asking about the library, ringmaster@circusworldmuseum.com. amelia@uwm.edu


210. Veres, clown painter, August 03, 2004 - Does anyone have information on the painter Veres? I'm not sure if that was her real name, but I do believe she was married to actor Dane Clark. In the 1950s, Veres painted a series of clown portraits, featuring a number of Ringling performers, including Paul Jung, Gene Lewis and Otto Griebling. Thanks. Rick Whelan, rickwhelan@sympatico.ca. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.

    Reply: 28 October, 2006 - If you have any information about Veres, I’d love to know. I have a Clown painting by her and would appreciate any background information. Thanks, Charles. jackeathcup@hotmail.com

    Reply: 01 November, 2006 - I also have 2 signed oil paintings by Veres. One is of Lou Jacob. I can not find anything on this artist, including her first name or, if indeed it is a female. Any information is greatly appreciated. Kirsten

    Reply: 01 June 2007 - In reference to Veres painter of circus clowns. She was the only painter that the clowns such as Emmett Kelly and clowns of that time posed for, She showed at Hammer Galleries in New York, Galerie Cruz in Paris and others. She was collected by many famous people, such as Jerry Lewis Barbara Stanwick, Lew Wasserman head of M.C.A. among many others. She died in 1970. I have many of her clown paintings. She also worked in other mediums such as sculpture, landscapes, and surreal art in doing a series of paintings on Atlantis, of which I have as well, She was the first wife of the actor Dane Clark. I am the second wife of Dane Clark and his widow. I reside in Los Angeles and can be reached by email at gerclark7@aol. Sincerely, Geraldine Clark

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209. Ford Sterling, August 03, 2004 - I am writing a biography on silent film comedian Ford Sterling and I wondered if anyone on the group could help me with any information on his circus career. This is what I have managed to find from various articles but have not been able to verify or cross reference much of it. Sterling (whose given name was George Ford Stitch), had appeared with at least two circuses somewhere between 1900 - 1907. First he was employed by John Robinson's Circus starting out as general handyman, roustabout and errand boy. He persevered and was rewarded with a 'real' job, as a member of the Flying Lees (I query this). Billed as Keno the Boy Clown he was tossed from hand to hand as they swung from their trapeze, The Lees would pretend to let him fall. Sterling stuck to it until the circus went into its winter quarters. He spent the following five summers as an acrobat and clown with Forepaughs Amalgamated Circus touring the Western States. Any help would be gratefully appreciated. Wendy Warwick White, snookeesdisguise@earthlink.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


208. Wallace or Bennett Bros., August 02, 2004 - I am interested in any information about the Wallace Brothers or Bennett Brothers Circus and their history with York SC. Thank you, Signa Curry, simplywowmisss@yahoo.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 07, 2004 - Wallace Bros. Circus, as well as Barnett [not Bennett] Bros. Circus has been the subject of Bandwagon articles. They could be located in the on-line index and back copies procured from the editor. Fred Dahlinger.


207. Fay Alexander, August 01, 2004 - Am looking for photo's and biographical information on flyer Fay Alexander. Mr. Alexander worked in films as a stunt double on the trapeze as well as a technical supervisor. He was a Ringling flyer, his wife's name was Rose. I believe he passed on in Florida around 2000 at age 66 from a fatal illness. I had thought he won an AGVA award in Las Vegas, but cannot find anything on the internet about that. Internet film information on his activities in the film "The Greatest Show on Earth" are pithy and incorrect - they have him listed as an actress. I understand he doubled for Cornell Wilde in that film and did the rather hairy drop into a net stretched over a pit dug down in the center of the ring and camouflaged to look like the ground to give the illusion of the Cornell Wilde character "Sebastian" falling to the earth. Would enjoy receiving information from your files as well as fans, friends, and relatives of Mr. Alexander. I last spoke with him in Gibsonton Florida in 1986. George Rowe, George_rowe1@msn.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: August 01, 2004 - Steve Gossard, "Fay Alexander," Bandwagon, September-October 2000, pp. 8-14. You can order this issue from the address in the Bandwagon Index on this website. You should be able to contact Steve Gossard, Curator of the Circus and Allied Arts Collection at Milner Library Circus and Allied Arts Collection. His email address is on this website: www.mlb.ilstu.edu/ressubj/speccol/home.htm#circus (Illinois State University, Bloomington-Normal).
    Reply: August 04, 2004 - I found your query about Fay Alexander in the discussions column for the CHS. I trust you got the article referred to in the response. I found the following at aol.com, National, Obituaries in the News.
    The Associated Press, October 1 2000, 8:32 pm ET
    SARASOTA, Fla. (AP) - Fay Alexander, who soared to stardom as one of the few trapeze artists to execute a triple somersault and who performed aerial maneumers in movies for Tony Curtis and Doris Day, has died of cancer. He was 75. Seattle-born Alexander first performed the triple in 1952 while he was working for the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus. He catapaulted off a trapeze, spun three times and grasped the arms of an upside-down acrobat swinging on another trapeze. Alexander performed as an acrobat with Rudy Vallee's show during World War II when he served in the Coast Guard, and later appeared in the "Stars and Bars" show with Sid Caesar and Victor Mature. After leaving military service, Alexander began performing in 1947 with Ted DeWayne in a Risley act, the acrobatic art of juggling objects--and sometimes people--with one's feet. In 1949, he began working for Barnum. A severe fall in 1953 sidelined his career for several years. He made his film debut in 1951, acting as a double for Cornel Wilde in Cecil B. DeMille's "Greatest Show On Earth". Aleaxander also performed for Tony Curtis in the 1955 film "Trapeze" and doubled for Martha Raye and Doris Day in "Jumbo" in 1962. Alexander died July 16 of lung cancer. W. Frank Barton --End of AP Story--

    I first met Fay on the Ringling show, in 1957. He was with us on the Castle show in Indianapolis, in 1972. I last saw him to have a long visit when he was working Al's Lemonzine with us on the 1980 Winter Tour of the Beatty show. He was forever the gentlemen, friendly and approachable. I have no idea how many flyers he generously trained over the decades. He remains among my leading heroes of the circus world.
    You might ask Bill Biggerstaff, editor of Circus Report, for the excellent series on Fay, written several years ago by Billy Barton, or contact Billy himself at 138 Shinham Road, Greencastle, PA 17225. The last phone I had for him is: (717) 597-3241. I last heard Billy is still with Bently Bros. I hope this assists in your research of the greatest flyer since Codona. Roger Smith.

    Reply: 11 July, 2005 - A relative of mine, a circus buff, and Internet frequenter, found your inquiry about Fay Alexander, and directed it to me. As children we saw him, in 1954, when Ringlings Bros toured Canada. On August 29,200, there was a long Obituary, from London's Daily Telegraph, copied in Toronto,s National Post. It contained several photographs, as well as tracing the Triple from E.Clarke, to A. Codono to Alexander's mentor, Arthur Concello. If you cannot access it, I can mail a copy. CJM

    Reply: 14 October, 2006 - I may be able to help with a photo of Fay with Ted Dewayne. Let me know Tom Holbrook, bozo_history@yahoo.com. I wish you luck in your research maybe you can help me with mine.


206. Escalante Circus, July 31, 2004 - I just found this website and its very interesting. I recently introduced a friend to family history research. Now I am looking for a little information about the Escalante Circus of Mexico for her. She recently discovered that her father,as a young man, was a musician in the circus band, and thats how he came to the U.S. When was the Esclante Circus formed and where in Mexico? Where did it travel in Mexico and in the U.S. I saw from a previous posting some dates that it played in California in 1930 and in 1945. Any information you could tell me would be appreciated. Thank you for your help. Linda Ogle, Texas, LOFTJELL@aol.com. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


205. Clown - Gene Lewis, July 31, 2004 - I am looking for information on Gene Lewis, a clown with Ringling Bros. in the 1950s-1960s. This much I know: Gene was born in Bloomington, Indiana (?) around 1900. He was in vaudeville, and his partner was Frank Faylen, who later went on to work in many Hollywood films, including It's A Wonderful Life. When I was boy and enamoured with the circus, Gene and I were pen pals and I still have his many letters which detail his life as a Ringling circus clown. I lost touch with him in the mid-1960s, but I believe he retired shortly after that and last I heard was living in a trailer park somewhere near Los Angeles. I assume he is passed on by now, but I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has any additional information on his life. rickwhelan@sympatico.ca. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.
    Reply: 24 March, 2005 - I am writing a paper on the 1968 clown alley of Ringling Bros., and Gene Lewis was a member of that trough. He performed on the Ringling show from 1952 - 1957, 1961 and from 1964 through 1968. That is all the info I have. Do you have ANY other info on him? DOB, death, where else he may have worked as a clown, etc.? Thanks, and I hope to hear from you soon. Rodney Huey, Falls Church, VA, RHuey2000@aol.com


204. Acrobats -Martini/Martineti, July 31, 2004 - I'm looking any kind of information about a troupe of acrobats, named Martini or Martineti, who showed in Europe at the end of the XIX (19th) century. Any kind of information would be appreciated. Thanks Mariano, mgarcia@heraldo.es. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


203. Winter Quarters - South Carolina, July 31, 2004 - I have been told that a circus had winter quarters at Edisto Island, SC, some time past. Pretty vague, I know. But I would appreciate any information about winter quarters in South Carolina. Jean Matthew, Vermont, jmatthew@pivot.net. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


202. Big H or Van Helm Show - Bronzeola/Matter, July 29, 2004 - My grandparents and mother and father all traveled in the fair, from the 1930's to 1970s. My family I called the real carnies, back then that's what they were called. I'm trying to find a show called the BIG H or it my have been Van Helm, I'm not sure. I can't remember all the names, I know some do not use their real name in my dad's case. Dad was known on the midway as Walter Bronzeola, nickname Curly. When mom and dad were to get married, he told mom, (i think i better tell you my real name), and that name is Frank Hodge, still nickname Curly. My grandparents were the Matter family, grandma ran the jewelry, grandpa ran the duck in the water and some other things also, my dad was running die games and was very good, dad was a good con. The last show my grandparents were on was back in the 1970s in Virgina. Winter home was in Englewood Fla. I do know that carnies wintered at Shady Haven trailer park in Englewood. Dad saved a man named Pat Owens, age 50 from th lemon bay water. I have this paper clipping dated 1956. What I'm trying to do is get a paper trail on my family's travels. Where did the piglaten talk come from? My dad talked it well. I know that carnies never talk about things, that I know, and they have no paper trail. here are some names of longh long of travelers, Gill Ott, Johnny Carruso, these 2 men have died, and they wintered here in South Carolina. Gill's wife is still alive and she still to this day tells me carnies never talk and she stands by that rule. Please if there is anyone out there that can help me with the names of the shows, the men, etc., mainly my dad, email me at linda_davis_29461@yahoo.com. I have a hodge puzzle that I would like to share. Thank you so much for reading this. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.


201. Fossetts - aerialists, July 29, 2004 - In the late 60's and early 70's there was a traveling aerialist family doing shows at various carnivals, etc. I believe they were from Florida - mother Avril and two sons. Their family name was Fossett. I saw them in Chicago. I remember reading later that a son Michael, fell to his death during a show in 1976. Anyone know what became of them? Please respond to my email as I dont' get to the boards that often. Faith Trask POWYSS@AOL.COM. Respond to this message, your reply goes to this board, not to the sender.

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