Message Archives:

3151-3200

3101-3150

3051-3100

3001-3050

2951-3000

2901-2950

2851-2900

2801-2850

2751-2800

2701-2750

2651-2700

2601-2650

2551-2600

2501-2550

2451-2500

2401-2450

2351-2400

2301-2350

2251-2300

2201-2250

2151-2200

2101-2150

2051-2100

2001-2050

1951-2000

1901-1950

1851-1900

1801-1850

1751-1800

1701-1750

1651-1700

1601-1650

1551-1600

1501-1550

1451-1500

1401-1450

1351-1400

1301-1350

1251-1300

1201-1250

1151-1200

1101-1150

1051-1100

1001-1050

951-1000

901-950

851-900

801-850

751-800

701-750

651-700

601-650

551-600

501-550

451-500

401-450

351-400

301-350

251-300

201-250

151-200

101-150

51-100

1-50
CHS Main page    Circus Historical Society    Membership

Circus History Message & Discussion Board

Send a Message     Current Messages

Before you send your message, have you done a search for the information you are looking for? Use the search on this website and your favorite search engine.

If you arrived here via a search engine, use "find" to locate the item.

This board is provided by the Circus Historical Society, Inc. for posting questions or conducting discussions regarding circus history.

  • Please do not submit attachments, genealogy questions or questions regarding the value of circus memorabilia.

When you click on Send or Respond to a Message above, your browser will attempt to send your question or comment using its email program. If you prefer to use a different email program to send your message, please address your question to circushistory@gmail.com with Circus History Message in the subject line.

Circus History Message must be in the subject line of your email. You must include at least your given name. Your city and state would be appreciated. Your response should include the topic of the message you are replying to in the text of your email, as well as your name. Please read the Guidelines and Disclaimer before emailing your message or response. Your message or response will be posted within one week, unless otherwise indicated above. Read Guidelines and Disclaimer regarding genealogy questions.

Message Archive: Messages 351 - 400



400. Burgess & Dexter Zoological Institute, 31-Jan-05 - I am looking for information about the circus called Burgess & Dexter's Zoological Institute circa 1830's. I think they were out of Boston, Massachusetts. They toured in the Canadian Maritme provinces as well. Burgess also had a collection of Serpents and Birds. Jean Flahive, jflahive@midmaine.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 03-Feb-05 - There's information about the Zoological Institute and various members of it in Stuart Thayer's "Annals of the American Circus." Thayer also did two papers on traveling menageries printed in "Bandwagon" that might be of help. Somers Historical Society might also have pertinent documents or other related materials. Fred Dahlinger.
    Reply: 22 February, 2005 - Burgess & Dexter was not a circus. It was a sideshow with the Boston unit of the Zoological Institute. It was lost in the sinking of the Royal Tar off the coast of Maine. Stuart Thayer

Join CHS today! Membership Form


399. Barnes and Daily Circus, 31-Jan-05 - I'm looking for information about Barnes and Daily Circus. It was in Michigan in September of 1974, and I think it was owned by Jimmy Silverlake. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message

    Reply: 17 September, 2006 - Came accross your qustion about Barnes and Daily Circus. Was with that Circus from opening to closing. please contact me if you would like information. David Terrell, dterrell53@yahoo.com


398. Terrell Jacobs farm, 31-Jan-05 - I'm looking for information about Terrell Jacobs farm in Peru Indiana. I have heard that it was also the Cole Bros winter quarters and later bought by Paul and Dorothy Kelly. My wife remembers it from the 1970's. She said it had elephant barns, an old children's Ferris Wheel and a closed restaurant. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 03-Feb-05 - Yes, the farm is still there. It was the Cole Bros WQ. Terrell Jacobs used one of the two barn to work his cat. In one of the barn is great painting on the wall. Some of holding cage for the cats still have claws marks in them. The shell of the restaurant is still there. Dorothy Kelly still lives there. Paul has passed away. I talk to Dorothy every week and get up date how she and her son are doing. If you'd like to email me, I can answer any more questions for you. David Powell, okproduction@aol.com
    Reply: 03-Feb-05 - There's coverage of the Terrell Jacobs facility in Bandwagon, July-August 1964. Fred Pfening's extended biography of Jacobs that ran in several issues of Bandwagon would also be useful. You can find these in the website index. Fred Dahlinger.
    Reply: 17 June, 2005 - I am related to Terrell Jacobs III and he might have the information you need. E-mail me back and I will try and help you. R Ward, loneslayer@juno.com


397. The Lightning Duo, 28-Jan-05 - Does anyone know if there are any advertisment posters for Barnum and Bailey's act, "The Lightning Duo" - roughly 1930s and 1940s? This was a roller skating act with dance routines of Jimmy and Beverly Simpson. speak@dsl-only.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 14 August, 2005 - The Lightning Duo are my parents. Both now deceased. Love to hear from you and who you are? are you a relative? Pamela Simpson

    Reply: 25 November, 2006 - I'm curious did you ever know of a family roller skating act called the "Flying Berry's." I am related to Charlie, Chuck, Malene, and Ronnie Berry who were in the act. They traveled world wide in the 1950s and were on a number of television variety shows. MOKate@aol.com

    Reply: 05 May 2007 - I've heard of the Flying Berry's. My mother's husband's cousin married Marlene. I'd love to get a picture of the act if anyone has it. Sears, Brad. sears@law.ucla.edu

    Reply: 13 Mar 2009 - Are u related? L Dyer


396. Flying Silverlakes, 27-Jan-05 - I'm looking for information about the Flying Silverlakes. I've read that Arthur Lake (Silverlake), who played Dagwood on the Blondie movies from 1938 to 1950, came from a trapeze family. Arthur Silverlake was born in Corbin Kentucky in 1905 and his family moved to California in the late 1910's. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 19 August, 2005 - Hi Darren,
          In responding to your question, and my own curiosity as a fan of Arthur Lake, I found some information about the "Siverlake" you may already have, but here goes.
          According to the U.S. Census for 1910, the Silverlake family was living in Mobile, AL with a couple by the name of William & Alora Scott; William is listed as a trapeze artist. Living with them is 27-year-old Arthur Silverlake, Sr., age 27; wife Edith age 22; daughter Florence age 5; and Arthur Silverlake, Jr. age 4. Arthur Silverlake, Sr. is listed as an actor. The bizarre thing is that the whole Silverlake family is listed as being born in Alabama - not unusual - the U.S. Census' also has bizarre information on my family also.
          The 1920 U.S. Census has the Silverlake family living in Nashville, TN. Edith age 31 is now listed as a widow and owner of a shoe store!! Florence is listed as 15 years of age; and Arthur, Jr. is listed as 12 years old. Now it seems on the 1920 U.S. Census that the family birthplaces are acurate - Edith's birthplace is listed as Tennessee; Florence's birthplace is South Carolina; and Arthur, Jr.'s birthplace is Kentucky.
          It makes me wonder if Arthur Lake and his family were actual members of "The Flying Silverlakes". Since Arthur's father, Arthur, Sr., was an actor, it makes more sense to me that this immediate family was in vaudeville rather than part of the Silverlake aerial act. I wonder how Arthur, Sr. died? I could probably locate a death certificate. Thanks. Let me know how you liked this information, or if you already have it. Regards, Jerry Rothstein, Van Nuys, CA, JrRothst@aol.com

    Reply: 13 October, 2006 - Hello Darrin: I just ran across your post on the Flying Silverlakes. Yes, indeed The father of Arthur Lake, (Dagwood) was on the trapeze in the circus. My grandparents and Great Grandfather were also in the circus. From what I have been told over the years is that Arthur Lake's Father was a catcher for my grandfather, Wiley Ferris in the early 1900's. On the previous response on the census the occupation listed as Actor seem to take a lot in. On serveral census my Greatgrand father was also listed as Actor even though he was on the trapeze in the circus. They would work the circus during the summer months then in the winter go on the vaudeville circuit. michael ferris, mlf22@verizon.net

    Reply: 21 Nov 2008 - I'm interested in any information regarding Wiley 'Biz' Ferris who, with his wife, were acrobats, bare back riders, etc. Wiley is the grandfather or great-grandfather of my uncle and I have been trying to obtain information for his family. I'd especially like to know whether there was a familial connection to the Silverlake/Timberlake family, which circus troupes did they perform with, etc. rosemaryhb@comcast.net

    Reply: 23 Nov 2008 - The late Howard "Doc" Zarlington, who worked in about every form of show business, told me that in about 1915 his family was on E G Jones' tent show the "Ideal Concert Company," which had both dramatic plays and vaudeville. The Silverlakes were also on the show and Doc and Arthur Jr were about the same age and played together. Doc was born in 1908, about the same year that young Arthur would have been born according to the 1920 census. Doc recalled the show as playing in West Virginia, Georgia and Alabama. Ole Whitey


395. Two Loop Stanley, 27-Jan-05 - I'm looking for a trapeze artist, turn of the century known, billed as 'Two Loop Stanley'. He was rumored to be of Lebanese origins. He was working with the advancing railroads in 1902 (?) in Montana. He 'disappeared'..some suspected foul play. It would be a great find to have a copy of his postcard-sized advertisement! Someone in Texas once had one that was lost in a fire. Oops! I'm hoping you can direct me in my search. Great work you are doing! Thanks for your attention. Mickey Hosman, MO, granny2dogs@sbcglobal.net. Respond to this message


394. Holland Brothers, 25-Jan-05 - I am writing to request information about Francis Hugh Holland whom I believe was part of a trapeze group called the Holland Brothers in the early 1880s. This troup would have traveled to either Atlanta, Savannah or Charleston. He went by the name Francis Hugh Holland when he married my ggrandmother in Atlanta circa 1880. There is speculation that he left a circus troup by the name of Holland and that his name was really McHugh but he adopted the name Holland when he married in Atlanta. I would so greatly appreciate any information you could lead me to. Thank You! Anne Senf, Gainesville, GA, AnneSenf@aol.com. Respond to this message


393. Lockharts Elephants, 20-Jan-05 - Has anyone knowledge of Lockharts Elephants which travelled in the UK up until a least 1942. I am particularly interested in the period between the two world wars as an uncle of mine is reputed to have worked for them as a trainer. POPSIEASSER@aol.com. Respond to this message


392. Giraffe transportation, 19-Jan-05 - Was there any kind of covering for inclement weather for the giraffes on the train with the car with the opening in the roof for their neck? How did they avoid hurting the giraffe? (for my daughter) Thank you, Audrey Gifford, CA, agifford@bridgesbls.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 27-Jan-05 - The giraffe was a mesmerizing creature and travel was a challenge. However with the design of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows giraffe wagons, it was easy. These wagons were close to the same height as all others on the train. The giraffe had to lower it's head a simply walk in. The head remained comfortable but the neck wasn't upright obviously. Inside the wagon was heavily padded on the inside to prevent any injury from occurring. I think I remember the back where the giraffe stood actually dropped down on the frame to be lower for the animal. The exhibit pens were then loaded on each side of the wagon for transportation purposes. This design worked so well that Ringling carried 4 giraffes all at the same time. Two of these giraffe wagons still exist. One is at Circus World Museum in Baraboo, Wi. and the other is at the International Circus Hall of Fame in Peru, Ind. An earlier design of giraffe wagon is also located at the Circus World Museum where the giraffe did extend upright through the wagon for display purposes in parades. I'm not familiar with the cover or top on this wagon but maybe someone at the Circus World Museum website can offer some assistance. Bob Cline, fivetiger@marlboroelectric.net
    Reply: 03-Feb-05 - There's coverage of early giraffe wagons in an article by Fred Dahlinger in Bandwagon, sometime in the 1980s, check the website article index. The focus was on the Ringling giraffe den, later re-created by a museum, as well as predecessors. The animals were well cared for and specially designed conveyances provided. Giraffe wagons were of the drop-frame style to maximize interior height. The animals usually lowered themselves to the floor while in transit. Early giraffe wagons had bellied-out sides so that the beast could turn around. They also had open roofs in the center, with either a flat canvas or clamshell canvas cover that could be removed. The animal could then raise its head through the opening. Later giraffe dens were made so that the bottom of the rear door held the top doors closed. In that way the ramp had to come down first, then the top doors were opened. Otherwise, if the top doors were opened first the animal thought that it was OK to move and would essentially trip over the lower door, with disastrous results. Fred Dahlinger


391. Circus, San Francisco, 19-Jan-05 - Message removed at request of sender.


390. Highwire accident, 1962-67, 18-Jan-05 - I am looking for information regarding a highwire accident sometime between 1962-1967 that occurred either in the Monroe, Mich., area or the Toledo, Ohio, area. I believe someone died in this accident, but I'm not sure. I think the show was cut short. I am looking for the precise date, location and circumstances of this incident. Thanks so much. Sam Roe, SRoe@tribune.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 23-Jan-05 - It sounds like you are referring to the Wallenda seven man Pyramid that fell in Detroit, Michigan in 1962 I believe. There were 4 people actually walking the wire at the same time. The first two had a pole stretched between them hooked over their shoulders with a person standing on that pole. The last two had the same configuration. The two people on top also had a pole stretched between them hooked over their shoulders with the seventh person standing on this pole. Everybody had to keep their own balance as well as the walkers taking the same step at the very same time. Without the balance pole they couldn't begin to control their precarious situations. They had performed this routine many times but this day the lead walker lost his grip on his pole and fell. When he fell, a chain reaction occurred. Karl Wallenda was on the second layer of people and grabbed the wire as he was falling and then grabbed the top mounter with his legs as she was falling. Mario Wallenda was paralyzed for life and is currently crossing the high wire again on a two wheeled device that they have created. Deiter, the lead walker, died in the fall. Jenny's husband was killed in the fall also but Jenny's still in the Sarasota area. Karl's daughter Karla is still alive. I had the wonderful experiences of perfoming in the same circus with her family a couple times. I'm sure there are others who can tell you the story better. The Tino Wallenda family has recreated the same exact feat and performs it in their shows. Hope this helps. Bob Cline fivetiger@marlboroelectric.net
    Reply: 02 June, 2005 - The show was not cut short ... it continued and was very hard for performers who had to "Go On With The Show." I believe it was beginning of 62. I was in that show as part of the Wazzan Troupe. Karl Wallenda was unbelievable ... it seemed like ages that he held on to the young girl he caught on her way down. People below were holding some kind of net for her to fall into, but she was afraid to let go of Karl; she finally let go. I believe her arms were broken. It was a tragedy. The next day (if I remember correctly) Karl and his brother did go up again and performed. Fatima Brahim (Wazzan)

    Reply: 23 February, 2006 - Hello, You might be looking for Jimmy Troy, the Clown Prince of the Air. He fell about this time. It in this area. I knew him and his kids, as I grew up in the biz. Yolanda

Join CHS today! Membership Form


389. Tommy Norman, 18-Jan-05 - Would there be any info on a circus performer by the name of "Tommy Norman, the Boy From the Gulf," (Queensland, Australia), working during the early 40's for Wirth's circus situated just over Princess Bridge in Melbourne city. Horse act with Eileen Wirth. thecampbellsarecoming@bigpond.com. Respond to this message


388. Franz Torence/Torrence, 17-Jan-05 - I am looking for information on Arialist Franz Torence/Torrence. I know that he performed with both the Ringling Bros (1944) and Spangles (1943) circuses. His first wife died during a performance at Madison Square Garden in 1945. Any information anyone could provide would be greatly appreciated. ceronomus@comcast.net. Respond to this message

    Reply: 07 Jan 2008 - Hi. Just happened upon your query from 3 years ago - hope your email still works. I run a small gallery in Los Angeles and we did an exhibition last year of circus and sideshow photography. While putting the show together I found a couple of original photos of Frank (Franz) and Victoria (Viktoria) Torrence. I have only the basics of information regarding them - web research which I'm sure you've already done - born in Vienna, Madison Sq Garden fall, etc. Was hoping maybe you found something more about them in your search ... love to hear it. Cheers, William Eiseman, Todd/Browning Gallery, Los Angeles


387. Martin Bros. Circus, 17-Jan-05 - I just purchased a sign from "The Martin Bros. Circus" and I was hoping someone could give me any info on this circus. Respond to Employees102@aol.com Thanks. Respond to this message

    Reply: 19 April, 2006 - Martin Bros. Circus was owned by Clayton and Madge Hawkes. The winterquaters for the show was in Castle Creek, NY. It toured in 1936 in upstate NY. Madge is still living and the local circus enthusiasts have a club called the "Martin Bros. Circus". Martin Bros was tent show. Clayton and Madge had other shows over the years including Clayton's Combined, Bogart and Hawkes, and the Great American School Show. I was happy to have known Clayton beginning in the 1960's an worked with him on several occasions on concessions and clowning. He was a wealth of old time circus knowledge! Ron, rfinch@infoblvd.net

    Reply: 14 February, 2007 - George Hubler also used the Martin Bros. title. Fred Pfening


386. Fred & Mattie Westbrook, 16-Jan-05 - Looking for information regarding Fred and Mattie Westbrook who would have performed in late 1800's early 1900's in the Forepaugh circus, Orrin Bros. Circus and Barnum and Bailey circus, any information would be greatly appreciated. John Oliver, Canada, ljl.oliver@sympatico.ca. Respond to this message
    Reply: 06 June, 2005 - I'm looking for information on a Mattie Drum. She married a Cowboy that performed in the Tom Mim Circus. I think our Mattie's are the same. My Mattie later married a Mr. Drum. She performed as a stunt woman in the movies. She even was a stunt woman for Joan Crawford. She became Mattie Drum after she was hurt riding in front of a stampede of cattle. That is all I have on her but would love more information. She was a cousin to my grandmother Dolly Ridge. Do you have any more information? I would love to hear from you. Julie Landy dhljal@msn.com


385. Circuses, early 1920s, 16-Jan-05 - I am writing a screen play. The first scene takes place in a circus. Did Barnum and Bailey's Cicus exist in 1922? Were there any Circuses which had acts involving lions and tigers during the early 1920's? Adrian, bloemea900@aol.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 17-Jan-05 - Barnum & Bailey toured untill 1918. In 1919, the Ringling Brothers decided to combine it with their own. The new circus was RINGLING BROS. AND BARNUM & BAILEY COMBINED SHOWS ("The Greatest Show On Earth"). While wild animal acts existed in many circuses, RBBB put a moratorium on such caged acts for a while in the 1920's. Giovanni Iuliani
    Reply: 17-Jan-05 - Sorry for this stroppy answer, but why would you write a screenplay on circus if you don't even know if the biggest circus on earth existed in the 1920's? How could you ever begin to grasp the complex world of circus in an accurate screenplay if you need help to even find that out? Why would you write a screenplay if obviously you research talent doesn't even involve googling to the website of this circus? Natasha Gerson


384. Twinkling Lady, Hercule the Herculean Hero, 16-Jan-05 - I am interested in information regarding the Twinkling Lady on the Twinkling wire and Hercule the Herculean Hero (wall of death rider). They were in Pinders Circus in the early 1900's. Can anyone help? Mary Ann Hudson Reid, haggisreid@yahoo.co.uk. Respond to this message


383. Cycling Artiste Harriet Reilly/Charmaine Kelly, 15-Jan-05 - Please advise if you have any billing details of a US Circus Touring Group to Moscow, Russia in the early 1900's which include a Trick Cycling Artiste named Harriet Reilly alias Charmaine Kelly from Manahattan (previously Plymouth England). Thank you, Peter Jennings, pjj@brittech.wanadoo.co.uk. Respond to this message
    Reply: 17-Jan-05 - This is interesting. On this website you find some entries of research of mine into the Hartenberger-Orelly family, and an equiestrienne named Hariet van de Velde (miss Harietta). No trick cycling as far as I know, but as her sister was at one point during the same time part of a parterre duo 'the 2 Reilly's' and the O'Relly's sometimes billed as O'Reilly I am wondering. Her mother was English, father Belgian. Please get in touch. Natasha Gerson


382. Elephant Babe/Big Babe, 14-Jan-05 - Can any one help me Looking for information about an elephant named Babe or Big Babe who was with the Imperial Exposition in the late in 40's (1946-1950). Who was his trainer and or owner? Was he ever performing with the Hagen Brothers Circus, etc.? Thank you, Ron Joy, ronjoy12@earthlink.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 15-Jan-05 - If you are referring to United Exposition Shows owned by Curley Vernon, the elephant is Cross Country Babe. Imported to the Frank A. Robbins in 1905, died with United Expo 1959. Buckles, bucklesw@tampabay.rr.com
    Reply: 23-Jan-05 - Hello! I had just happened to be lookin up BIG BABE. I was very young when I was working with her, I was in an act with her for 3 seasons. I was only about 7 years old the first year. My parents had a dog act, and my brother and I were trick ropers. This was on the Gene Holter Wild Animal Show AND or called Gene Holters movie land animals from Riverside, California. They purchased many animals and had a large complex. It was a traveling show as well. This time frame was in the 70's Big Babe was old then. She was my buddy and if you the saw tricks we did , well what was my mother thinking. I only know she and I hung out together between shows, she shared my snacks, and I loved her. I also know what happened to her. Big Babe was also the lead elephant in the Movie, Elephant Walk starring Elizabeth Taylor. Yolanda Bates, Wireworks@tampabay.rr.com.

    Reply: 20 July, 2006 - I will find out for sure, but she was an very large elephant, she was with Hagen, my grandmother and father bought her and she died in Fl early 60's. My mother worked her. We were just talking about her. Interstate Amusements, kellyk@bellsouth.net. p.s The babe that was responded to you in the elephant walk movie, she was owned by my Uncle Paul Kelly from Peru, In. his wife Dorthy stills lives there and could tell you amazing stories.


381. Lundgreens, 14-Jan-05 - Do you have any information on the Lundgreens? My grandparents talked years ago about being friends with famous circus people by this name. Is there any history on them in the circus world? Thanks, Sue, sue.hunt@polytech.k12.de.us. Respond to this message

    Reply: 06 September, 2006 - Hi, I’m looking for information myself. My husbands family has the maiden name Lundgreen. His grandmother has an original artwork poster depicting the group in her office. “The flying Lundgreens”. It shows the group as a trapeze or high wire group. She interestingly doesn’t know much more about them. She’s 84. Let me know if you dug anything else up. Thanks for any info you may have and email if you have more questions. Sarah Mullins


380. David Knupp, 14-Jan-05 - Could anybody advise me how to contact David Knupp was a catcher for Del & Babs Graham in their flying act when I was with Wirth's circus in Australia in the 1950s. I think he came from Hannibal, Missouri. My dad used to do the clowning in the flying act with them. I am writing a book on my 51 years in the circus in Australia and I was hoping David Knupp might have some photos of my late father. Robert Perry, email perry@lm.net.au. Respond to this message
    Reply: 13 October, 2005 - I was a friend of David Knupp in High School in Hannibal, Mo. Another friend, Walter (Bib) Thomure was a flyer with David when they were with the circus. His current address is: [address sent to Robert Perry] Hope that this is some help to you. Jim Harvey
    Reply: 21 December, 2005 - In respose to your wondering on the wherabouts of David Knupp, my father Walter (Bib) Thomure will be able to help you, as he still occasionally speaks with Dave. He would be more than happy to help you in any way at all. He can be contacted at [phone no. sent to Robert Perry]. Thanks for your time and good luck on your book. Sincerely, Jim Thomure

    Reply: 02 March, 2006 - Hi, I am Dave Knupp’s daughter-in-law. Are you still looking for him? If so, I can supply you with his contact information. Alecia Knupp

    Reply: 13 Sep 2008 - I also am related to David Knupp. (his daughter) I was wondering if you ever got your book completed and if it is available for purchase. My Grandmother, May Kovar was also on the Wirth Circus in 1946-1949 and worked the big cats. email: knuppj1@yahoo.com

Join CHS today! Membership Form


379. Sands, Nathans & Co., 12-Jan-05 - I'm wondering if anyone can provide the cities visited by Sands, Nathans & Co. in the year 1855 or 1856. I think it would be in the Ohio area. I should add 1857 to that list for Sands, Nathans & Co. and maybe omit 1855. It's in relation to the use of the Five Celebrated Clowns poster which the Lib. of Congress says was printed in 1856. I'm researching a daguerreotype that shows a torn up copy pasted on a city wall. We're trying to determine the city and it's an intriguing clue. Thank you! Regards, Mark, Mark Johnson, President, The Daguerreian Society, 3043 West Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15216. Respond to this message
    Reply: 18-Jan-05 - Sands, Nathans & Co.1856 show opened in Detroit, April 28-29, played Michigan then Indiana, Illinois, then back to Indiana, and into Ohio during Mid-August and September, then into New York. The 1857 season saw two units, one that played the east coast and did not make it to Ohio, and a second unit opened in St. Louis April 20. The show played the mid west and finally made it to Ohio reaching Cincinnati September 16-19, then played across the middle of Ohio and went into Pittsburgh October 7-9 and headed east. Ted Bowman Circus Route Collection


378. Harris Nickel Plate, 12-Jan-05 - I'm looking for information on the Nickel Plate Circus in 1927. It was Harris Nickel Plate from 1883-1904 and Harrington's in 1932-33. I have a photo from 1927 and I don't know who owned the show. Thanks for any information. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 03-Feb-05 - I'd question the date or other circumstances of the image. The Harris Bros. circus title was used by Floyd and Howard King in 1924, nothing else until Harrington a few years later. Fred Dahlinger.
    Reply: 18 February, 2005 - The photo is of a cowboy and a woman dressed as an Indian. The photo is in a scrapbook and has clearly written under it "Nickel Plate Circus 1927" Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net
    Reply: 02 March, 2005 - The only possibilities would seem to be that Nickel Plate was a subtitle to the actual owners names, or an interim title, or perhaps it was a carnival back end show. A scanning of 1927 Billboards might reveal more information. As you probably know, there are many faulty photo inscriptions, usually appended in later years. Fred Dahlinger
    Reply: 02 March, 2005 - If this connects with the Orange Bros. & Moon operation (another of your postings), it was one of the Newton family shows. They had two 1927 operations, William Newton, Jr. had Honest Bill out and Cly Newton had Orange Bros. on tour. These were truck shows. Fred Dahlinger
    Reply: 08 March, 2005 - There are Orange and Moon photos from 1926 in this scrapbook, but there are also two photos labeled as Nickel Plate Circus. One Nickel Plate photo is dated 1927 and the other photo doesn't have a date. The dates written in this scrapbook for other photos are 1924-1928. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net.
    Reply: 31 August, 2005 - Hello. My great-grandfather owned Harrington's Nickle Plate Circus. There is a great article about the circus in BANDWAGON. Citation below: Harrington's Nickle Plate Show: A Depression Circus Lasting Three Seasons, Joseph T. Bradbury, pp. 16-25. Ernest A. Harrington's career 1900 to 1930s. Details of 1932-1934 show. I'd love to see the picture if you have it scanned. I might know who some of the people are. Take care, Laurie Champion, San Diego
    Reply: 06 November, 2005 - I wonder if this photo could be of W.E. Morgan's Nickel Plate Circus. Sturtevant's List on this site has Morgan's Nickel Plate listed for 1922-1925. The Directory of American CIrcuses lists W.E. Morgan Circus for 1922 and Morgan's Nickel Plate Show for 1925. Darren in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net

    Reply: 12 Feb 2008 - I'm a "Harris" researcher and if you want to see some actual newspaper articles on the W H Harris "Nickel Plate" Circus just follow this link: The Central Record, Lancaster, Garrard Co., Ky, www.loc.gov/chroniclingamerica/search_fulltext_advanced.html. Click on KY, then The record, Lancaster, KY, type in "Harris Nickle Plate" in the box "with all the words" and the paper has several articles on this circus coming to town. For a picture on to this page:

    www.loc.gov/chroniclingamerica/ndnp:1124414/display.html?n=0&scope=fulltext&pageNum=1¤tSort=&mode=list

    I am interested in learning about this W H Harris and his family history. Ellie West/Radford



377. Cirkus Goldkette, 10-Jan-05 - Cirkus Goldkette - I am looking for: Nanette Goldkette - line dancer - but real name Elisabeth Funk, born 1800 Bayern, Germany - parents: Funk, schoolteacher, jewish too. Her mother sold her in 1808 for 200 daler to Mechanicus Wulff Levi called Levi or Louis Goldkette/Goldenkett, who spanked the little girl with a rope to go on a line in circus, he promised to bring back the little girl to the mother after few years,but he didn't. She grew up by the family as a daughter and as a "sister" to Hartwig Goldkette, Hermann Goldkette and Caroline Goldkette. Elisabeths fosterfather Wulff Levi (Levi Goldkette) even his was married with Therese Schlaum, pregnaded her and they got a son Wolffschram Levi 17 sept 1816 Næstved, Danmark, they put him 1817 to a fosterfamily by the name Sørensen in Fåborg, Denmark and 1830 he baptism and christening to: Frederik Christian Sørensen - It succed for her to escape from the circus by the help of the empire Theresia of Austria (Helpfonds). In 1825 the did performances in Breslau, Poland. When Frederiks 2 halfbrothers: Hartwig and Hermann Goldkette did performances in Fåborg in 1840s - they told him - his mother Elisabeth Funk still live in Berlin, Germany and was married there. Then after they corresponded and then in 1866 when Elisabeth was 66 years and Frederik was 50 years old, he visited his mother and her husbond in Berlin, Germany. - I tried to surch when Elisabeth died in Berlin but I couldn't - so I will be very gratefully about any informations: Jette Goldkette Sørensen, Denmark: jetgold@webspeed.dk. Respond to this message

    Reply: 22 September, 2006 - And Caroline Goldkette born 1813 Hildesheim, Germany married Meyer Blumenfeld born 1810, brother to Emanuel Blumenfeld born 1811 - their father gave Emanuel circus Blumenfeld in 1834. jetgold@webspeed.dk


376. Princess Chinquilla, 10-Jan-05 - I am interested in locating information about a Native American woman (Sheyenne) who called herself Princess Chinquilla. She is alleged to have been a tight-wire artist with the Buffalo Bill Wild West Shows somewhere around 1890, but this seems highly unlikely. A later reference was to her being in the "Howe London show." I would guess that this was the Howe Great London Show, but who knows! In the 1901-1904 period, she appeared on New York vaudeville stages as Princess Chinquilla, Chinquilla and Co., Newell, Chinquilla and Dunufrio (once spelled Dufree). They seem to have had some sort of musical act. Any ideas? Thank you, Judith Erickson, jberickson@onet.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 20-Jan-05 - My name is Rachel Mathieu, I'm living in France. I was searching some information on the web, concerning a brother of my grand father who was a catholic father helping indians. His name is father Deis, coming from my village. I have at home a picure from a newspaper in New York were he is on with a woman called Princess Chinquilla of Cheyenne Tribe and Chief Manabozho at a indians ais annual poppy sale. Should this information help you I would be pleased to send you a coppy by mail. Best regards, Rachel, Rachounem@aol.com
    Reply: 28 June, 2005 - You won't believe this but I am looking for Chief Manabozho for a friend of mine. This all is the same timeframe and place. he was also on Broadway and in Buffalo Bill's Wild West show.Have you found out anything else? Sincerely, Betty, blantonsb@aol.com

    Reply: 05 Apr 2008 - I too am interested in Princess Chinquilla as she was my step grandmother. She was married to my grandfather, Ernest L. Barbour Sr. They were married in 1905. I would like to know more about her, her date of birth, where she was born and where and when she died? Did she have any children? Any, and I do mean, any information would be greatly appreciated. Thank you, Claudia, clemsss2002@yahoo.com


375. Gillette family, Billy Betts, Ray Chidlow, 07-Jan-05 - A few years ago I aquired a group of photos, which I believe were personal pictures of Edith Gillette, who I am told was a part of Ringling Bros. Circus many years ago. Many of them include her father, Will (William?) Gillette who I believe was involved with the circus as well. Can anyone tell me anything about the Gillette family? Also I have a lovely 8x10 photo of two performers, dressed in Top Hat and Tails, that looks to be taken around 1925 or earlier. It is signed "To our esteemed Partner, Edith, with very best wishes from Billy Betts and Ray Chidlow" I assume they were circus performers. Has anyone ever heard of these fellows? Any info will be helpful. Thanks! Al Durant Albany, NY, SCAT76@webtv.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 10-Jan-05 - Ray H. Chidlow, born 1893 in Manhattan New York and residing at 368 W 55th Street, actor, was registered with The International Agency in 1919 as part of an entertainment duo named Refts and Chidlow. Haven't found the other names mentioned, but will try. Natasha Gerson
    Reply: 16-Jan-05 - Thank you Natasha for your help. It is possible that the signature is Billy Refts, which would make sense after you found info on the Chidlow and Refts. I know the photo is very old and is a promo, with the studio ID of "Unity N.Y." I look forward to any additional information you may find. Al Durant
    Reply: 17-Jan-05 - Please send me a scan of the photo if you will and I'll try to find out what I can. Thanks, Natasha nani@xs4all.nl
    Reply: 20-Jan-05 - Ok Natasha, I will send you a scan of the photo. Since I last heard from you, I have found out that Will Gillette was at one time the Treasurer for the Ringling Bros. Circus and may have been in charge of costumes as well. I cannot confirm this, but I have heard this from several people who lived in the area where he retired (Nassau, New York). I will continue to find out whatever I can about the Gillette family. Al Durant
    Reply: 22-Jan-05 - Natasha, I found some additional information on the Gillette family. According to a source, Edith Gillette was in 1930 part of the "Iron Jaw" act of Ringling Bros. Circus and was paid 50 dollars a week. Do you know what the "Iron Jaw" act is? Al
    Reply: 01-Feb-05 - Hi, thanks for sending me the photo's, Al, and you were right: It is Betts, not Retts. I found a 1917 advertisement that I'll send to you seperately for Betts & Chidlow and still looking. I've had very little time recently but have not forgotten the search! Natasha Gerson

    Reply: 18 Aug 2007 - Al, My name is William L. Schnitzer, CFA and CHS, and I am doing research for a member of the Gillette family here in New Paltz. I have found out a large amount about them and have the potential to find out a lot about Edith. It is right under our noses. Did you know that there is a direct connection to the Rieffenachs that goes back to the 19th century? Get in contact with me and we should share information. Gordon Turner has my phone number. Bill Schnitzer, npschnitz@hvc.rr.com


374. Circus family Goldkette, 06-Jan-05 - My name is Jette Goldkette Sørensen, Denmark. I am looking for any informations about the circus family Goldkette: Levi Goldkette, his son Hartwig Goldkette, his son Louis Goldkette - all was married into the families Blumenfelds, Strassburger, Gaudsmith and Gautier. Some Goldkette, Gaudsmith and Krivor live in USA to day, some Gautier and Goldkette Sørensen in Denmark, some Bronett in Sweden, Circus Scott. Please for any information contact: Jetgold@webspeed.dk. Respond to this message
    Reply: 07-Jan-05 - Try Henry T. Gaudsmith in NY, HenryGaudsmith@netscape.net. A good Scandinavian source of endless knowledge is Per Arne Wahlberg, Swedish author. I don't have an email address for him but try through Ole Simonson, osim@post11.tele.dk. Natasha Gerson
    Reply: 10-Jan-05 - Re reply of 7 jan 05 to Natasha Gerson - thank you very much for your informations - I already for many years have been in contact with Per Arne Wåhlberg in Sweden and he helped me a lot - for your information Henry Tice Goudsmit and I have the same forfather Wulff Levi called Levi/Louis Goldkette 1778-1833, and for few month him and me have been in contact. It is the same with Henry and Robert Bronett (Goldkette) owner of Circus Scott in Sweden. And not to forget - Jean Goldkette, very well-known jazz & orchestra leader in USA (his mother: Angeline Goldkette) - and Angeline Goldkettes sister Clara Goldkettes legacy are Alann Krivor in USA. Ageline and Claras brother: Franconi Louis Goldkettes legacy: Aronne Goldkette, USA. yes we are legacy from the circus people: Levi/Goldkette/Blumenfeld/Goudsmith/Strassburger, Gautier. and we still live all over the world. jetgold@webspeed.dk
    Reply: 24-Jan-05 - There is one surname missing in that last list: And that is Kinsbergen. Deeply entwined with Blumenfeld, Strassberger at all, they were the main (Jewish) Dutch circus family - but in 'kleinzirkus" for decades. Last of the Kinsbergens was Peter van de Pol "Pietje Kinsbergen") clown extraordinaire, who died in july 2003. Circus Harlekino inherited his little one-master chapiteau, that he had kept 'on the wagon' for a good 12 years, maintaining that he would definitely tour again at one point. So now his tent is on the road again, but Pietje never did... RIP
    Reply: 6 October, 2005 - Reply to RIP of 24 jan 2005. Yes it is correct that the family Kinsbergen are connected to all this upon families. Natasha Gerson told me that the first Kinsbergen was Leon Kinsbergen who gave his first performance in 1801. Julius Kinsbergen b 1837 Oostende married to Heintje ? Children: 1. Karel Kinsbergen; 2. Manus Kinsbergen b 1866 married to ??, 3 Children: Branca, Chatarina, Johan; 3. Elisabeth Kinsbergen b 1868 married to: Carl Blumenfeld b abt 1865, 9 children: 1. Fanny, 2. Helen, 3 Manne, 4 Pia, 5. Sara Rositte b 1891 married to: Carl Goldkette b 1889-1937 (Carl Bronett) (child: Alice Goldkette b 1917 Sweden) Carl Goldkette son of: Francois Goldkette 1857 son of: Hermann Goldkette son of: Wulff Levi 1778-1833 called Louis/Levy Goldkette. And he is the 3rd great grandfather of mine (me = Jette Goldkette Sørensen, Denmark) also the same to Henry and Robert Bronett, Circus Scott, Sweden, + Henry T. Gaudsmith, USA. jetgold@webspeed.dk
    Reply: 25 October, 2005 - Questions to RIP of 24 jan 2005 do you have more informations about the famous clown Pietje Kinsbergen d july 2003 where, born, - his parents - sisters and brothers - and is he connected to Elisabeth Kinsbergen? Natsha Gerson write that the parents of Elisabeth was Julius Kinsbergen born Oostende 1837 and Heintje? But in a book Cirkus og Gøglerslægter by Anders Enevig, Danmark 2004 stand the parents was mecanicus Jacob Kinsbergen born ca 1820 and Rachel Eliazar Boas. And how is Blanes - Kinsbergen connected? I will be very gratefully for any information, jetgold@webspeed.dk
    Reply: 03 January, 2006 - I'm responding to messages about the Kinsbergen family. My great great great grandfather Elias Meijer van Leuwen (or Leeuwen) was married to Elizabeth Hermanus Kinsbergen. Her death is registered on 31st Aug. 1835. Her daughter Alida was born in a circus wagon and emigrated to England with her husband Jonas Drukker (who changed the spelling to Drucquer) in 1841. When my cousin Bonny was doing work in the Amsterdam archives, they pulled out two posters for Kinsbergen circus which they had kept with Elizabeth's death certificate. I have copies of both. One is dated 1809 and shows a line drawing also of a male bareback rider. It is said in the family that Alida was also a rider. Other acts advertised are tight rope walker, trampoline, comical scenes etc. Please contact with any info. Helen Drucquer, galen.helen@ukonline.co.uk

    Reply: 18 September, 2006 - Hello, I am trying to find out information on Alexander Goutsmit married Dolinda Robba in 1900 England and was wondering if he is part of the Goldkette family. I dont think the marriage lasted long. Ray, England

    Reply: 21 September, 2006 - re reply of 3 jan 2006 to Helen. Our Elisabeth Kinsbergen was born 1868 and married to: Carl Blumenfeld born abt 1865 but tried to contact Natasha Gerson - just tast her name on internet google search. - god luck jet

    re reply 18 sep 2006 to Ray, England. Some kinship of Alexander Goudsmith: Edith Althoff, Henry og Robert Bronett, Sweden, Marianna Dassi, Henry Tice Gaudsmith + family, USA - please sent your new e mail adr to me - then I will invite you to my site on Ancestry com. - regards jetgold@webspeed.dk

    Reply: 22 September, 2006 - Are any of the Jewish Circus performers in the United States by 1830? Am looking for the name of rope walker died unnamed in Corsicana, Texas, 1898, of Jewish descent. Possibly born in Princeton, New Jersey, USA in 1829. Jimyarin@verizon.net

    Reply: 22 September, 2006 - I find your new e mail so I will invite you today to my site on Ancestry com - Jette Goldkette Sørensen

    Reply: 01 May 2007 - I thank all to help me. jetgold@webspeed.dk


373. Ortonville Circus, 04-Jan-05 - Our company is having entertainment provided by Ortonville Circus at our holiday party this year - can you please provide me with some information as to the type of show or entertainment it will be. Thank you, Anna@dcinet.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 10-Jan-05 - I'm rather curious myself. My grandfather R.Z. Orton took his family circus out of Ortonville, Iowa for many years up until the early 1930's. Any connection? BUCKLESW@tampabay.rr.com

    Reply: 13 February, 2006 - The email address on this article is not valid. Can you help me? I want to contact this person, Anna@dcinet.com. Thanks, Ann Erickson

    Reply: 23 January, 2007 - I was wondering if you found out any information on the Orton Circus. My Grandmother was an Orton and traveled when she was young in the circus. They were called the Aerial Orton's because they were trapeze artists. Please contact me if you have any information about their circus, I would be interested to know more. I actually have a video of them from the 1940's I believe. Thank You, Diane Richardson (Harsh-Orton)


372. Sideshow Rick, 03-Jan-05 - Have you ever heard of Side show Rick, from somewhere in Maryland, who has a traveling circus sideshow that is heading out on tour in like Febuary? I'm attempting to find a website for them or any info I can, if you could help me that would be really cool. Thanx - josh, Edstitzer@wmconnect.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 26 March, 2005 - E-mail me in a day or so I may have address for you. You are thinking of Rick Cales who has freak animal show and dunk tank. He just sent me Christmas card with address on it - I'll see if I can dig it up - it's around here somewhere. Think I recall Altoona, Pa. As his return address. I am Rick Dennis,sideshow operator out of Vestal,N.Y. e-mail me at hotdennis1@msn.com, Later. Rick (doc blood)


371. Ella Mills, fat lady, 03-Jan-05 - I am trying to gather information about a circus fat lady named Ella Mills. I believe she was originally from Ohio. She appeared with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus sometime in the 1950's. Any information would be appreciated. I may be contacted at comarts40@aol.com, Robert Momyer. Respond to this message

    Reply: 26 April, 2006 - I know you posted this over a year ago. There is a short article in the March/April issue of "The History Channel Magazine" on family ancestors dealing with Ella Mills. Real name Ella Grahn "Mills" Millbauer, from near Baraboo, Wisconsin according to the article, but it doesn't say she was born there. Hope that little bit helps. Jeff Mihalka, jmihalka@aurorametals.com

    Reply: 31 May, 2006 - I saw Ella Mills in a freak show at the Western Fair in London, Ontario, Canada, sometime in the mid 1950's. After the gawkers left, feeling ashamed and embarrassed at having gawked at her myself, I hung around and spoke with her. I was about 9-10 years old at the time. She was a very nice lady. She told me she was interested in purchasing some Hudson Bay Blankets, which were only available in Canada at the time. However, she didn't know where to find them. I went home and got the necessary info from my mother and went back to the fair a second time and paid a second admission to the freak show. We chatted at some length, and I recall being impressed with the fact that she was just a normal person, cursed with a deformity that made her a target of curiosity seekers and those who would overtly ridicule her. Although I was only nine years old, I remember being smitten with a sense of man's inhumanity to man. I can't tell you how touched I was to receive a card from her with a thank you note and a photo the following Christmas. I often wish I had been able to see her again. John Reep, St. Catharines ON, jreep@cogeco.ca


370. Circus - New Orleans, January 02, 2005 - I'm a writer and am currently writing a story who's main character was from a circus family. I'm looking for dates on when the first circus performed in New Orleans, LA. Also, any information on the first Fortune tellers in New Orleans would be much appreciated. My email address is amyloewy@mibdspring.com, Amy Loewy, New Orleans, LA. Thank you in advance for your help. Respond to this message
    Reply: 17-Jan-05 - Probably not the first fortune teller in New Orleans but A fortune teller in New Orleans and pretty wellknown by accounts, was Madame Eulalia (Eugenie Lovell) in the 1900-10's. She had a recogised Romany father (Jermyn Lovell) who had gone to America from Wiltshire, Britain, somewhere around 1880, and who was supposed to be some sort of relative of Smith's, the original Petulengro, and a creole mother into voodiish things so had quite a pedigree for it. She lay ordinary playingcards and read tea leaves and also had a little shop selling spells and counterspells after travelling around fairs. She spoke English and French, the last probably through her mother and came back to Europe for a while when she toured France and Belgium as a medium causing hysterics on the fairgrounds here by summoning up dead relatives for all and sundry. Here she was billed as 'L'Oracle de Nouveau Orleans' I found her story in a French magazine years ago that was a feature when the film Angel Heart was very popular here, which featured a similar shop in bones and herbs as she was supposed to have had. Hope this is of some use to you. I'm sure there is more to be found out in New Orleans about her. Natasha Gerson
    Reply: 22 February, 2005 - The first circus to advertise in New Orleans is dated 1816. Cayetano Mariotini was the manager. His ad appears in the Courier de la Louisiane of 3 April of that year. Stuart Thayer.

Join CHS today! Membership Form


369. Ruby Haag, January 02, 2005 - I'm looking for any information about Ruby Haag falling with the web and breaking her hip and back. She was with the Grotto circus in 1942? in Cleveland Ohio. darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message


368. Sells-Floto 1925, January 01, 2005 - My father, Emil Gregorich, worked in the Sells-Floto Circus in 1925. I have about 12 good photos he took of the performers and crew of the Sells-Floto circus. I would like to find someone who has information about that circus so they could help me to interpret the photos, learn names of the performers, and locate a schedule of the cities the Sells-Floto Circus played in during 1925. I am willing to email good copies of the photos I have to the persons who help me. Many thanks. Steve Gregorich, jansteveg@earthlink.net. Respond to this message


367. Del & Babs Graham, December 31, 2004 - I was wondering if you know how I could obtain information on Del and Babs Graham? They are from Saginaw, I believe - although it was a long time ago - they were trapeeze artists with Barnum and Bailey in the 1950's. There was an article on them back in the 50's, in a Saginaw newspaper, which showed them with Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Adams. From what I understand, Del and Babs helped train David and Ricky Nelson for a circus sequence in their TV show. I know this letter is rather disjointed, but, I'm disabled, and my medications sometimes toss my thoughts around. Any info at all, even pointing me to another source, would be appreciated. I'd be interested to know about their career. Thank you. Sincerely, Marcy Heilborn, Syracuse, Indiana, marbeth50@hotmail.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 04-Jan-05 - My dad was in the flying with Del & Babs doing the clowning when they were Wirth's circus in Australia in the 1950s. They gave my dad a watch when they went back to the USA. My wife and myself stayed with Del for a couple of nights just out of LA in 1973. They also had a young catcher named David Knupp was a good friend of my brother. Robert Perry, Australia.

    Reply: 25 September, 2006 - Del and Babs Graham worked for my father at a place called Jungleland in the 50’s/60’s. They divorced in the late 60’s and he remarried and she did not. Babs and Del are both gone now. She passed before he did. Yes, they did train Ricky and David for the Big Circus. I remember them very well. Zea Cody, zealarry@adelphia.net

    Reply: 09 Apr 2008 - Regarding Del and Babs Graham and Dave Nelson, the "Flying Viennas"; In 1961 my wife and I and our 4 kids made the long trip from California where we then lived to Anchorage for a 10-day circus date I had been hired to do. A number of circus acts were furnished by the "Ted DeWayne Circus" owned by the late Ted DeWayne who took a caravan of circus and private performers’ vehicles up the Alcan Highway and that was a grueling trip. Parts of the highway (now called the Alaska Highway) are now paved and there are some 4 lane areas. My father and I had moved to Palmer, Alaska in 1948 when the highway had just been opened to civilian travel for the first time and we were in the first 500 cars to travel over the highway. The highway was worse in 1948 but not great in 1961.
          The 1961 circus in Anchorage featured David Nelson who was the catcher for Del and Babs working as the "Flying Viennas". The circus also featured the late single trapeze artist Jimmy Troy, Chi and Sumae, a Chinese contortion and acrobatic act, Oscar Cristiani's Doberman Pincer dog act, Leon Forte, the prolific high wire artist, Nolly and Polly Tate and "Peanuts" (can't recall his name) as clowns as well as a number of acts furnished by the late Ted DeWayne including his water skiing Elephant ( "Bimbo"). Ben "Boxcar" Meyer a.k.a. Ben DeWayne did clowning, juggling and slack wire and with Mike Foster, did trampoline. Mike also did unicycle. The DeWayne troupe did a top Risley act. He also had a Liberty act with matched ponies.
          In 1964 Desilu Studios were looking for a fire eater for the television series and had auditioned 22 and found none that they were satisfied with. Dave Nelson had seen my fire act in Anchorage numerous times three years prior when he was catcher for the "Flying Viennas" and recommended me to the studio who placed me under a day player’s contract.
          In 1964 I was under contract to Desilu Productions (the studio was then owned by Lucille Ball and her then husband Desi Arnaz) and appeared in the ABC-TV series "Greatest Show on Earth" which had the late Jack Palance and the late Stu Erwin co-starring. (This series had nothing to do with the film of the same name produced by M-G-M and released for theatrical showings in 1952. The film starred Betty Hutton and the late Charlton Heston and a bevy of other luminaries). While I was in the L.A. area and we were shooting at Desilu in Burbank I stayed at Del and Babs’ place in Tarzana. The late Mickey King, sister of Antoinette Concello also stayed with the Grahams. Del was technical director on the trapeze act for the series.
          The Grahams were very pleasant to me and I enjoyed staying in my own private quarters on the far side of their swimming pool. Mickey King's quarters were adjacent to mine. They drove us to and from the studio and would not take any compensation for the little cabins or transportation.
          They did indeed appear at Louie Goebel’s "Jungleland" at Thousand Oaks, California closed in 1986. Goebel was an expert on elephants.
          After our return from Anchorage I dropped my family off at home in Petaluma and continued to Lake Isabella and Bodfish, Calif., in the hot desert to announce Ted's show which was under canvas there over the 4th of July.
          After that date Nancy, my wife, and I framed our own show, Delano Society Circus and worked sponsored dates with an indoor show and an outdoor unit playing shopping centers through the late 1960's. So many are now gone (hopefully) to a "better booking" but photos and memories linger on. With respect, Donn J. Moyer, Actor/Showman/Author


366. Rose Kilian Circus, December 30, 2004 - I'm looking for any information on the Rose Kilian Circus. My wife's Grandmother, Ruby Haag, traveled with her in 1925-1926. Thanks for any help, Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 04-Jan-05 - There is some information and a couple photos of the Rose Kilian show in my article about Herbert L. Witt, the wagon builder, in Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 2001. It should be available for purchase as a back issue. The footnotes offer further leads to Kilian information. Rose ended her show days traveling with the Haag show. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 10 Oct 2009 - We have found a coin (token) that has a side view of an elephant on the front and the back reads: Rose Show 1928. This piece seems to be made of bronze or brass and is slightly larger than our present-day half-dollar coin. Can this be part of the Rose Killian circus? Thank You, Marty Collins


365. La Pearl Circus, December 29, 2004 - I am looking for anything about the La Pearl circus from the Midwest. Specifically, and all relatives to J. H. La Pearl and Harry La Pearl. My great grandfather was Frank C. La Pearl and I was told he is related to them. I have no history on my Dad's side past that, and would like to complete. My dad and all my grandparents died before I was 8. Thank you so much, Ken Pearl, Chicago, IL, Ken.Pearl@exide.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 29-Dec-04 - Robert L. Parkinson, Directory of American Circuses 1793-2000, p. 248. J. H. LaPearl's Circus, 1891-1900, J. H. LaPearl, proprietor, also LaPearl's Circus. On p. 188, Harry LaPearl's Circus, 1925. No additional information in Parkinson. William Slout's Olympians of the Sawdust Circle, p. 166, has a short bio for James H. La Pearl and Harry La Pearl. Also short entries for: Katie La Pearl, Roy La Pearl, Ruby La Pearl. No mention of a Frank C. La Pearl. J. Griffin.
    Reply: 04-Jan-05 - LaPearl was born in Philadelphia, 1861, joined the Stokes outfit in 1876, Burr Robbins and also the Parson outfit in 1883, had a variety show in 1885. He launched his own circus in 1891. J. H. LaPearl was out of Crawfordsville, IN, later Danville, IL. Ben Wallace and a litho company made a deal for Wallace to take over the LaPearl outfit, which he did. He died January 4, 1936. His son was Harry LaPearl, born 1884. He was with 1921 Campbell, Bailey & Hutchinson; 1927 with the King brothers (Walter L. Main); 1935 Russell Bros. He was in the movie "Polly of the Circus." He died, age 61, January 13, 1946, in Los Angeles. I believe that his wife also clowned and that there was an article published about them in the 1920s. Their obituaries in Billboard, White Tops or local newspapers might reveal the names of relatives. A check of census records might also prove fruitful. Fred Dahlinger
    Reply: 31-Jan-05 - In 1963 I met Jack La Pearl. I was a H.S. student and very interested in the circus. Jack's father was J. H. La Pearl and his brother was Harry La Pearl. At the time, Jack lived in Wheaton as I recall. We became friends. Jack died around the time I got out of the Navy in 1971. Jack had a son who worked at Maryville Academy in the suburbs. Please contact me if you have any questions. Best wishes, Jim Royal, Production Unit Manager, Big Apple Circus, Jroyalbac@aol.com
    Reply: 19 July, 2005 - Hello Ken; I don't have very much information on the J.H. Lapearl circus. My Great Grandfather was one of the performers in this circus in 1895. His name was Wylie Ferris. I found some information from the Circus World Library in Baraboo Wisc. They have a Great resource for the American circus. I found a route sheet for the J.H. Lapearl circus from 1895 listing their route and the performer's names. It listed my Great Grandfather. I would be grateful if you could share any information that you have been able to gather on the J.H. Lapearl Circus. Thank you. Michael Ferris, ferris_mike@montebello.k12.ca.us, or mlf2@ix.netcom.com
    Reply: 01 December, 2005 - I am a LaPearl and my fathers name was Frank C LaPearl his father was Roy S LaPearl who was the son of J. H. LaPearl who owned the circus. My father died on Dec 25, 1950. Noreen LaPearl Rochelle (bowlingnanny92@msn.com)
    Reply: 27 January, 2006 - Hello Ken. Your posting brought back many memories for me. I, Roberta Zane, and my sister, Peggy Zane Martinet, are the great granddaughters of J. H. LaPearl. Our grandmother was Ruby LaPearl and our great grandmother was Nellie Carmen LaPearl (she married several times and we knew her as Nellie Ferris, but I don't know who Ferris was.) We live in Southern California. I met Harry just before he died, when he visited Los Angeles in 1946; I was a child then but I remember his dog act. Later his widow Loretta and her dogs lived with our family. I don't recall how long that was. Ruby was married twice, first to Edgar Zane, my grandfather, and later to Milton Schwarzwald. She had two sons, Edgar Zane Jr. and Arnold Schwarzwald. Both are deceased. I probably have more information, if you'd like to email me privately. Good luck in your search and my sister and I would really like to know what you find out. bobbi, bobbizane@julianweb.com

    Reply: 27 February, 2006 - My grandfather was Charles F. Gross from Missouri. He was a manager, agent and performer with the J.H. LaPearl Shows, among others, in the 1890s. In looking through his collection of memorabilia, I found the "Official Route Book of J.H. LaPearl's Shows. Commencing 1891, Ending 1897". It has a wonderful photo of J.H. La Pearl ("Sole Proprietor and Manager") and a 3-page biographical "sketch". Plus, a large postcard with childhood photos of Harry and Roy La Pearl in costume, and two flyers for "LaPearl's Winter Circus listing all the performers (with my grandfather doing a "musical act")! I would be willing to photocopy these items and snail-mail them to you if you are interested. I've just started researching all the different companies my grandfather was with (including riverboats such as Price's Floating Palace), so I have a lot of work ahead of me. It's all so fascinating! amarvelle@earthlink.net, Ann Sebastian, Santa Rosa CA

    Reply: 31 May, 2006 - Wow I just checked this Board again for the first time and saw all the responses. I apologize for not keeping up but I wasn't familiar with the site. We just had our first son and have been very busy. To bowlingnanny92@msn.com, and bobbizane@julianweb.com, amarvelle@earthlink.net, I will contact you directly as you suggested. Thanks! Ken Pearl Chicago, IL

    Reply: 02 February, 2007 - Dear Ken, Jack LaPearl married my grandmother in the late 1950s, following the death of my biological grandfather. I was always told that Grandpa Jack was born John Bachelor and he had a son whom I knew as Jim Bachelor. Grandpa Jack had been in the circus nearly all of his life, first as an acrobat, then as a clown, and finally as a person who booked the circuses. He and my Grandmother traveled all over the United States and into Canada and Mexico. I do have some circus-related pictures of Grandpa Jack, as well as some family pictures. Grandpa Jack and Grandma lived in Wheaton until my Grandma passed away in 1968. I am sorry I don't know exactly where or when Grandpa died. One interesting fact I remember very well from his wonderful stories was that he met Buffalo Bill Cody on a train once. Grandpa Jack was very young at the time, but it left an incredible impression on him. He was able to sit and talk with him for awhile. He mentioned that Annie Oakley was on the same train, but I am not sure if he met her. I have been told that Grandpa Jack's picture is in the Circus Hall of Fame, but I have never been there. My parents, John and Hannah McNeil (deceased ten years) belonged to the Circus Fans of America, beginning in the 1960s. Thank you, Sally (McNeil) Day

    Reply: 10 February, 2007 - I worked on the Kelly-Miller advance with Jack over forty years ago but I never knew just how he was related to the J H LaPearl family. Thanks to Jim Royal for clearing this up. Assuming Sally Day's recollection is also correct about Jack being born John Bachelor, may we also infer that J H's name was the same? Thanks - Ole Whitey

    Reply: 16 Mar 2008 - I am wrtiting this to let everyone know that J. H. LaPearl was born J. H. Schreiber in Germantown, Penna Sept 23,1861. He ran away from home to join the Stokes circus at age 15, his father disowned him and a man named LaPearl adopted him and taught him many circus acts. I know this informatiuon as my grandfather was Roy LaPearl and great grandfather was J. H. LaPearl. I have pictures of his advertisements and of him. Contact me at bowlingnanny1@verizon.net


364. Lion or Tiger attack, Cleveland, December 29, 2004 - I'm trying to find out about a lion or tiger attack at the old Cleveland arena in the 1960s or 70s. I believe the police had to put down the cats. rjcoyle@msn.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: 04 August, 2005 - You are possibly refering to when during a Sat. morning show Jean "Tarzan" Zerbini was attacked by a big male lion as it the arena from the tunnel. Jean's father opened the man door to help and the cat dragged him in. This caused enough distraction for Jean to get out, as I remember Papa Zerbini was not injured by the cat but suffered a heart attack. I do remember him sitting on one of the pedastals. Jean's sister Mimi, then entered the cage and with the help of a circus rigger, Leo "Coke" Coffey, (Coke did not stand for cocaine), put the cats away. In spite of over 150 stitches Jean worked the following Tues. in Milwaukee. Bill S.


363. Franz Furtner, Unus, December 29, 2004 - Seeking information reguarding Franz Furtner. Billed as Unus while performing with the Ringling Brothers Circus 1948/1952. Known for a very classy act featuring a one finger handstand. Last contact with him was in Sarasota. Dudley Riggs, dudleyriggs@comcast.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 29-Dec-04 - See messages #56, #171 in CHS Message Board Archives. Also White Tops, "Death (86 yrs) Sensation equilibrist from Austria," Vol. 67, No. 5, 1994, p. 47. There are two more references to Unus in the White Tops index on this website, just type Unus in the search engine and they should show up. J. Griffin.
    Reply: 09 March, 2005 - I beleive his daughter is Vicki Unis who is hopefully still around if that is any help. She was on RBBB in 60's and 70's. vince, Dillmannaircraft@aol.com


362. Mighty Haag Shows, December 29, 2004 - I'm looking on any information on the Mighty Haag Shows. My wife's grandmother, Ruby Haag, was on the show in the 1920's and 1930's. She married Ernest Haag's son, Harry Haag. Thanks for any information. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 29-Dec-04 - The Mighty Haag Shows/Mighty Haag Railroad Show/Haag circus that existed between 1910 -1947, expanding from a one-ring circus to a 3-ring and back again. It was the first show in the US to boast, from the early 1930s, a female clown. Another clown in the 30s with Haag was Herbie, Herbert C. Klynstra who later became, surprisingly, a maths teacher in Moline, Ill. Most famous performer to come out of the family was the swing band leader and trumpetist Harry Haag James, born 1916, performing with, amongst others, Benny Goodman from 1937. H. H. James died in 1983.
    Reply 15 December, 2005 - Just discovered this site. My mother, Amelia Schwarz Holberg, who will be 90 in Jan (2006) gave me today (12/15/2005) an old flyer from HARRY HAAG'S BIG 3 RING CIRCUS which indicates her father (my grandfather, deceased 1940) R. C. Schwarz (Robert Claude) as President; Harry E. Haag as General Manager; and her uncle Sam L. Schwarz as Secretary-Treasurer. The circus' "permanent address" is shown as P.O. Box 122 Mobile, Ala. The slogan reads "America's Best Three Ring Circus." I will scan the flyer (which had been used to pencil a recipe some years ago) and e-mail a copy to you ASAP. My mother is unclear about the year of this venture. Her dad had owned a very successful livery business at the beginning of the 20th Century, raised and raced horses, and sometime during the depression lost most of the money, but launched a "dog and pony show." During those years acquired the Haag Circus for a while. At least that's as I understand it. Any history you have would be most welcome. Robert S Holberg, bob@bobholberg.net.


361. Dunbar or Ringling Bros Circus, December 29, 2004 - I'm looking for information on when the Dunbar Circus or Ringling Bros Circus was in South America. My wife's grandmother, Ruby Haag, remembers riding the train to South America to do shows. She was with Harry Haag, Charles Haag, and Naomi Haag and did acts with Judy the elephant, ponies, and dogs. It was probably in the 1950's or 1960's. She remembers going to Argentina and Brazil. Thanks for any information. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 02-Jan-05 - Update: I'm looking for information on when the Dunbar Circus or Ringling Bros Circus was in South America. My wife's grandmother, Ruby Haag, remembers flying to Caracas Venezuela to do shows with Dunbar Circus in the 1950's. She was with Harry Haag Sr., Charles Haag, and Naomi Haag and did acts with Judy the elephant, ponies, and dogs. In the 1960's she remembers going by boat to Buenos Aires with Ringling Bros. She and Naomi Haag had ponies and dogs. They toured Argentina and Brazil. Thanks for any information. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net


360. Eddie Belledie, December 29, 2004 - I'm looking for information on Eddie Belledie (spelling?) who managed circus shows at different malls in the 1960's. My wife's family, Harry, Pat, and Ruby Haag worked for him. Thanks for any information. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 02-Jan-05 - Update: Eddie Belledie (spelling?) managed circus shows at different malls in the 1960's. He worked with Animal Land USA in Sarasota. My wife's family, Harry, Pat, and Ruby Haag worked for him. Thanks for any information. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net

Join CHS today! Membership Form


359. Orange & Moon circus, Harris Nickel Plate, December 29, 2004 - I'm looking for any information on the Orange and Moon circus or the Harris Nickel Plate Shows from the 1920's. Thanks for any information. Darren Bryan in Georgia, darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 02-Jan-05 - See message 329, Darren.


358. Orrin Davenport, December 29, 2004 - I'm looking for information on Orrin Davenport who booked shows for the Shrine Circus. My wife grandmother, Ruby Haag remembers working for him. Thanks for any information. darrenrx@bellsouth.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 02-Jan-05 - Update: Orrin Davenport, from Chicago, booked shows for the Shrine Circus. My wife grandmother, Ruby Haag remembers working for him. Thanks for any information. darrenrx@bellsouth.net.


357. Elephant Trainers, December 21, 2004 - I am currently writing a book about the elephants in America. It is being reviewed by a couple literary agents. I need a few dates of different elephant trainers to complete their chapter. Can anyone tell me the birthdate and passing date of Lucia Zora, Walter McClain, "Cheerful" Gardner, "Arky" Scott, or Fred Logan's birthdate? Anything of interest about them would be helpful such as being a Shriner, a Mason, married, father of two, etc. to show they had a life in addition to the elephants. Aside from what years they were with different shows, it's extremely difficult finding information about the individuals themselves. I have Lucia Zora's book but her dates are not in it unless I missed them. I got up to the Circus World Library this summer but couldn't stumble across the dates of these individuals. Thanks. Bob Cline, fivetiger@marlboroelectric.net. Respond to this message
    Reply: 29-Dec-04 - I know that the La Pearl circus had an elephant named Charlie that killed his trainer turn of the Century. You can find stuff on the internet about it. Good luck and I am looking for any and all info on the La Pearl circus, run by J.H. LaPearl. His parents, siblings, aunts and uncles, cousins, etc. Thanks, Ken Pearl, Chicago, IL, Ken.Pearl@exide.com.
    Reply: 14 July, 2005 - Hello, My name is Robert Alispach. I am distant relative of Lucia Zora. She married my Great Uncle Fred Alispaw (It is really spelt Alispach but pronounced "Alispaw" So He spelt it that way for the circus.) I was wondering if you found out any information on Lucia Zora yet. I know it has been some time since you posted. December 21, 2004. I am trying to piece as much information on my family as possible. Who knows maybe I know something that could help you as well. Please write back if you can. Thank you, Robert Alispach
    Reply: 17 August, 2005 - In response to Robert Alispach, I knew his Great Uncle Fred Alispaw during the 1940's in Ft. Pierce, Florida. He was a neighbor of ours and a very dear friend. I will be glad to tell him whatever I can if he will email to me at of_spencer@hotmail.com, Opal Freer Spencer

    Reply: 07 April, 2006 - I just found this wonderful website and have some information you might want. I have the local (Ft. Pierce, Florida) obituary of Lucia Zora. Fred Alispaw was my great-uncle (actually, his second wife after Zora's death was my great-aunt). I grew up spending a lot of time with him and knew many circus stories. I also have a lot of pictures I'll be more than willing to share. Beanmom22@aol.com

    Reply: 20 July, 2006 - Just stumbled accross this site, I'm sure you are done with your book by now, though I have a great aunt that became a trainer after 40 yr. old Dorthy Kelly, Peru, In. she has some great stories and a wonderful memory and could tell you about many trainers. Interstate Amusements, kellyk@bellsouth.net

    Reply: 22 July, 2006 - Thank you for the info. I visited with Dorothy and Eddie a couple years ago. I hated to go as much as they hated for us to leave. Terrific folks. As for the response from Beanmom, I've emailed her a couple times but gotten no reply. Would love to make contact. By the way the book is still in search of a publisher. With No Drugs, Sex, Lies, Videotape, or Rock-n-Roll in the book, it's a tough sell. Bob Cline fivetiger@marlboroelectric.net

    Reply: 23 Apr 2008 - Re Robert Alispach's query about Lucia Zora and his great-uncle - Frederick Alispach. Fred was quite well known for his skills in training lions. Fred was also my great uncle. At the end of his life, he returned to the West to live his last few months with his sister Lillie Webb (my grandmother) around 1957. Robert - please contact me - I'm easy to find. Your counsin, Larry Udall


356. Richardo Family, December 18, 2004 - I was wondering if anyone has heard of the "The Richardo Family." They performed from June 1862 until at least 1872 in England, Scotland and Wales. Acts included, gymnasts, grotesques, pantomimists, vocalists and dancers. Have list of engagments for that period if anyone interested. pdunc@sympatico.ca. Respond to this message


355. Stawicki's, December 17, 2004 - Stawicki's - I believe that my great uncle, Adolf Oppler, founded this mechanised aerobatic act in Austria or Germany in the 1930's and continued it with his son(s?) into the 1950's. I have a German poster from (I'm guessing) the late 1930's, and I actually saw them on British television as a child in the early 1950's. There was also a daughter who may have been involved in a separate act into the 1960's. I don't know if they ever appeared in the US, but any information about them would be a great help. Thank you! Diana Southern, dsouther@wiley.co.uk. Respond to this message

    Reply: 30 June 2007 - Dear Diana, Yes, I knew the Stawicki's and worked several times in the same shows with them. I don't know anything about the origin of the act. It must have been in the beginning of the sixties when I worked with them in Berlin. It was the aerial act done by the father and son. Several years later I worked with them in Hamburg. There it was the (same) son with his sister. They did not do the aerial act anymore, but a equilibristic act. They did not call themselves Stawicky anymore, but "Tholeros". The names of the brother and sister are Thomas and Dagmar, they were very nice people. During the beginning of the nineties I met Thomas again, this time in Arnhem (Holland). He worked alone in an act on a high pole, which he had taken over from a very old and famous artist: Fatiny. Dagmar and Thomas told me that they had a house in Spain, I think it was in Alicante but I am not sure about that. I lost their address, but if it is very important to you I could try to get it through other old friends. Just let me know. With very best wishes, Charly Ross. chaross@prodigy.net.mx


354. Sammy's Circus, Farrell circus, December 16, 2004 - I was looking for any info on Uncle Sammys Circus or any Farrell family circus in Ireland. Thank you, yours truly Gerry Farrell, Jonesdavid20@aol.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: December 17, 2004 - Would this be Farell as of Charles Farell, married into the Lorenzo/Crick/Baily family? Natasha Gerson.

    Reply: 05 November, 2006 - Hello Gerry, Sammy is part of my family tree. Are you a relative? I’ve got one of his posters from England. Do you want me to e-mail you a copy? Mary


353. Louise Hilton, December 15, 2004 - I am trying to locate information on Louise Hilton, "Greatest bareback rider of all times". Was this a stage name? When and where did she live/die. Any family history? There is one poster from Gentry Bros Circus, however, I was told she also performed for Barnum & Baily Circus, however, the museum has no information listed. ltatecamp@msn.com. Respond to this message


352. Poster, Meers sisters, December 15, 2004 - We have a Barnum and Bailey advertising poster with the Meers sisters on it. 1960 circus world museum. Can you tell me anything about it? Thank you, Christy Curran, ccwin53@hotmail.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: December 15, 2004 - This is a reprint, one of six or eight that were issued by the museum. To knowledgeable people, it has a value of a few dollars.


351. Delno Sisters, December 15, 2004 - I am looking for information on my grandmother and her sisters' trapeze and acrobatic act with several different circuses in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Their act was known as the Delno sisters. My grandam was one of the first to swing by her teeth from the trapeze. Thanks for any tips! Stephen at ovwagner@aol.com. Respond to this message
    Reply: December 17, 2004 - I can find the Delno Sisters between 1918 and 1924 in the Keith Vaudeville circuit, as 'Novelty Entertainers, a duo of nimble ladies performing excellent contortionistic and acrobatic entertainment', in other words: Parterre. Did your gran and sister continue into this after circus and trap maybe? 'The first to....' claims are always hard to prove and uphold, including the first to hang by the teeth. I'd vouch there were earliest. But at least its not such a blunt claim as that of the Hanniford family claiming the 'first female tiger trainer' in their circus in the 1960s. Natasha Gerson.

Back to Main Message Board


Disclaimer

The purpose of the Circus Historical Society Question board is to engage in informative discussions with others interested in circus history by exchanging useful resources, offering direction and/or information, defining terms or just shedding light on a confusing aspect of circus history.

The Circus Historical Society makes no guarantee of the accuracy of information contained in any message posted to this board. This discussion board cannot take the place of personal research. You should not take any information or advice presented here in place of personal research. Comments made here may or may not be factual. This is an avenue for discussion and correspondence only, and we cannot verify or attest to the accuracy of any comments. Messages posted do not necessarily reflect CHS's philosophy. Messages posted are expressions of individuals and we advise users to please be courteous and professional. Thank you.

CHS's Message and Discussion Board is a public service. CHS assumes no responsibility for any postings and/or their content. CHS reserves the right to remove any post at any time.


Top

Copyright © 2003-2008
Circus Historical Society, Inc.
About CHS