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Message Archive: Messages 1201 - 1250


1250. Johnny Jones Exposition band, 24 March, 2006 - Angel Cordero Osorio was a bandleader in the Johnny J Jones Exposition for a few years. The years were 1935-38. How can I go about getting informtion regarding the Johnny J. Jones Exposition Band. Thank you, Belinda Osorio. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 24 March, 2006 - There may be some limited information in Bob Goldsack's book about the Johnny J. Jones Exposition. His contact information is on this website. There are no known surviving business records for the Jones operation, at least in a known public or private archive. The only source of roster information will be in reviews printed after the spring openings in the weekly issues of the trade publications "Billboard" and "New York Clipper." These have been microfilmed. Check with your local librarian for availability. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 02 March, 2007 - Thank you so much for the information. It gives those of us who were not around back then a sense of history. My mother travelled with him. But my parents passed and the dates have been convoluted for decades! Again, thank you! Belinda Osorio

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1249. Menagerie broadsides, 24 March, 2006 - Im trying to date two broadsides - Drake and Shore's Royal Menagerie and Morgan's Grand Menagerie if somebody could give some idea's of dates much appreciated. NWB. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1248. Arthur R. Crawford, 24 March, 2006 - Arthur R. Crawford was a traveling musician and ne'er-do-well as the family story goes. He married my great grandmother Julia Morrissey Crawford in Saratoga County, N.Y. in about 1902. On the marriage certificate his occupation is listed as comedian. The marriage fell apart and he split, but in 1915 he was in his hometown of Bennington Vermont to register for WWI. On his WWI registration card he listed his occupation as musician. He also listed his employer as the Barnum & Bailey Circus of Eureka, Kansas. No record of him exists after this time that I have been able to find. He was born in Bennington Vt. about 1875. If anyone has any information regarding Arthur R. Crawford that they might be able to share I would appreciate it kindly. J. Smial. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 07 March, 2007 - The copy of the birth record that I have lists him as "actor". However, I am sure we are talking about the same fella, As Julia was my great grandmother. I believe his mother's name was Abbie, and his fathers name was Henry. He had a brother named carson (or something like that). I was kind of shocked to see this posting. I am having trouble finding info about Julia, although I think her mothers name was Catherine? Chris. c

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1247. Billboard back issues, 23 March, 2006 - Does any one know of any site on the web that would have back issues of the Billboard that have been scanned and can be printed? Also I have a wardrobe trunk with drawers and hangers that I used as announcer/Performance director on the Polack shw in 1976. Not selling it but just come and pick it up in Sarasota. My phone number is 941/359-6857. Robert Mitchell. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1246. Mexican Circus, 23 March, 2006 - American Circuses have a lot of Mexican performers on their shows. Where would one look to find Mexican Circus still showing in Mexico. I can find large shows, but not the smaller ones. I am looking for Animal Trainers from America that may be performing in Mexico. wittlewoof@yahoo.com Thanks if you have any information. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1245. German circus, 21 March, 2006 - My mother and grandparents were in a circus throughout Germany 1939-1950s, it was circus Busch-Berlin, Hanso-Carlo Circus, the last name is Heilmann, does anyone know anything or anyone? Sheila Blanc, sheila.blanc@prureality.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 23 March, 2006 - Circus Bush: My family " The Karolys" worked at Circus Bush in the 1920's. Count De' Vosconcellos also was on the show during those times. We later worked with Mr. Concellos on the Ringling Show in the middle 1950's. Just about every circus performer of note that came from Europe worked Circus Bush at one time or more. Other Circuses during those years were: Cirkus Krone, Gleich, Sarassani, Strasburger, Willie Hagenbeck, Blackpool Tower,Carre, just to name a few. There were many more. Good Luck, Erny Karoly

    Reply: 24 March, 2006 - Circus Busch-Berlin was a late traveling avatar of the famed Circus Busch, which was Berlin's last permanent circus building. Along with Krone, Sarasanni and Hagenbeck, Busch was one of Germany's great circus name. There is a book (in German) relating the Busch saga: "Circus Busch, Geister einer Manege in Berlin" by Gisela Winkler (Be-Bra Verlag, Berlin-Brandenburg, 1998 - ISBN: 3-930863-36-7). Paula Busch, Paul Busch's daughter and the last Busch managing the name, also wrote several books on the circus, notably "Das Spiel meines Lebens" (Verlag Das Neue Berlin, 1992 - ISBN: 3-359-00641-0), which recalls the Circus Busch era. At the beginning of the German occupation of France (1940-45), both Parisian circuses, the Cirque d'Hiver and Cirque Medrano, were given to Paula Busch for a trial period of six months. This didn't prove to be a great idea, and the circuses were handed back to their rightful proprietors, the Bouglione family and Jérôme Medrano respectively. The other circuses, Hansa-Carlo (with an 'a', not Hanso!) and Heilmann are long forgotten entities of no significance! Dominique Jando

    Reply: 05 Sep 2007 - Dear Mam, Sir: My name is Lily A. Peper Bohnet and I am the daughter of Heinrich Theodor Peper (Henry). My father was a Lion/Tiger and Bear trainer in the Circus Holzmueller, Circus Busch (the director from that circus was J. Busch) and later my father was with Ringling Brothers. He was from Germany but traveled with the circus to many countries and passed away in 1945 in Germany with YB that he contracted trying to safe his favorite tigress. I know he wrote a book but I cannot find any information on my father or the circus he was involved with, my mother Elsa Leinert Peper also performed with the tiger. I would truly be very grateful if you have any information or could direct me how to get some information, thank you so very much. Sincerely, Lily A. Peper Bohnet

    Reply: 06 Sep 2007 - Dear Sheila Blanc: The person that responded to your questions in the Circus Historical Society regarding Circus Busch a Erny Karoly I believe his parents would have known my father Henry Peper the Tiger, Lion and Bear tamer for the circus in those years. My fathers trade mark was to perform with a black tuxedo and white gloves and only a whip since he did not believe in hitting his animals. My father passed away in 1944 due to have contracted TB from his beloved tigress in trying to save her. I would appreciate and be so ver grateful if you have Erny Karoly's e-mail so that I can contact him in the hopes that he may have some pictures and information about my father or any information you may have should you recognize my fathers name. He also performed for Ringling Brothers and Circus Holzmuller. Please be so kind and respond to my request, thank you so much. Lily A. Peper Bohnet

    Reply: 24 Sep 2007 - There is one picture of Henry Peper with a tiger on www.circusmuseum.nl/eng. Search for "Peper". Herman Voogd

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1244. Christy Brothers, 21 March, 2006 - Whatever happened to the Christy Brothers circus? I worked there as a 15 year old in Wausaukee, Wisconsin. Conrad Bazylewski, cbazylewski@cityofchicago.org. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 23 March, 2006 - There's a terrific article written by Fred Pfening Jr. in the Jan./ Feb. 1997 issue of Bandwagon on the later years of the Christy Bros. Circus. George Christy's astute sense of business and finance had his Christy Bros. Circus and a second unit he called Lee Bros. Circus in the road in 1925 and 1926. By 1927 he took Lee Bros. off the road. The entertainment field was as good and as bad as any business could be. Making a long story short, he sold the equipment in the 1930's but kept his elephants and horses working for years to come. He eventually got out of the entertainment field, became a millionaire in the process of Public business in Texas and entered the political field whereby he was elected to the position of Mayor of South Houston, Texas in the 1960's and was the Police Commissioner as well. Hope that helps. Bob Cline

    Reply: 24 March, 2006 - The Christy Bros. Circus property closed in 1930. It was largely sold to Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell and formed the basis of their Cole Bros. Circus of 1935 and onwards to 1950. A number of the parade wagons that served on Christy and later Cole are at Circus World Museum in Baraboo, WI. They include: the Lion Tableau, the Asia Tableau, Columbia Bandwagon [served as a ticket wagon on Cole], America Tableau [served as a tableau, modified into a steam calliope in 1940] and two Barnum & Bailey Tableau Cages. None have a Christy-era restoration scheme. You will be able to view other Christy materials in the library there. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 30 March, 2006 - There are still some people around who may have helped the Christy show, but I wonder if this reader might be thinking of either Cristiani Bros or James Christy, two similar titles that were in use in the late fifties-early sixties period? Regards, Ole Whitey

    Reply: 09 May 2007 - I grew up in South Houston, TX during the 1940s thru the early 50s. I well remember the Christy home and the barns where some of the animals lived. One morning I awoke to see a few elephants in the vacant lot next to our home. They had evidently found a way out of the quarters and were munching their way around the small town. My Father, Horace Brown and Mr. Christy were opponents in the race for Mayor of South Houston. I don't remember the exact date but it would have been in the late 40s as my family moved to nearby Pasadena, TX in 1952. Mr. Christy was a colorful person and I remember that he and Mrs. Christy became the parents of a beautiful little boy during the time that I knew them. I left Texas in 1955 and returned 2 yrs. ago. I am reading "Water for Elephants" at the present time and there was mention of the Christy Bros. Circus so I started looking for any information I could find on the internet. Certainly South Houston and Pasadena have changed in the past 50yrs but childhood memories are one of our treasures as we grow older. If anyone has any further information about Mr. Christy and his family, I would certainly enjoy hearing it. Barbara Brown Powell

    Reply: 24 Oct 2007 - The home still remains close to the intersection of College St. and Hwy 3, old Galveston Road, complete with railroad siding and lionhead posts on the front fenceline. I think about the circus history every time I pass that way. George Gray

    Reply: 24 Oct 2007 - I was born and raised in South Houston Texas. I was a Barber in the 50's an 60's. I owned George's Barber Shop, Mr. Christy & his son George Jr. came in regularly. He was really a caret-er when he came in all conversations terned big talk about politics an all circus. He was a true showman. I could go on telling many stories about elephants walking up & down streets trunk to tail and many more. Can you tell me where I can find pictures of him & his circus. Sincerely, George Bauer

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1243. Conrad H. Foster, 21 March, 2006 - I am looking for information on Conrad H. Foster, born Massachusetts 1875, died Michigan 1940, obituary says that he used to be a treasurer of Barnum and Bailey circus. Son Louis Foster may have also been working with circus. Thank you in advance! Kelly Brown. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 22 March, 2006 - Constantine Foster was listed in the New York Clipper's Directory of Tent Show People for 1911 as working tickets on the Barnum & Bailey Circus. Some time later he left the show and migrated to Traverse City, Michigan. I was told he ran for mayor and in 1934 was the Traverse City Parks Commissioner. He had an idea to create a park for the people with a bit of history and gathered a number of artifacts on trips around the world. If you Google - 'Con Foster -Traverse City' you should get the website for the Con Foster Museum that has additional information. John Polacsek

    Reply: 22 August, 2006 - To Kelly Brown: Hi Kelly: I believe that Con Foster was my paternal grandmother's uncle (my great-great uncle). Family legend has it that Con and his brother, George L. Foster (my great grandfather) took off with the circus and that both of them settled in Traverse City. Con and George were likely from eastern Massachusetts (perhaps the town of Franklin) - I have a photo that may be George or Conrad) and the date of birth sounds correct (my grandmother was born in 1896). It gets a little complicated on our side - my grandmother, her sister and their mother were abandoned by George (he never came back from Michigan or points elsewhere in the midwest) - but that's a different story! Years ago I was a graduate student in Michigan and had the chance to get up to Traverse City and see the museum. If you are interested, I will scan in the picture and email it - advise me. Jerry Filbin (Jerry.filbin@verizon.net) Washington, DC

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1242. Okie Carr and John Carrol, 21 March, 2006 - I have been looking for some pictures for some time without sucess. Permit me to try again. For a book in progress, I need some pictures of Donnie "Okie" Carr and John Carrol. Both were long time employees of Carson and Barnes Circus. Sadly, both are deceased now. Anyone that can supply a picture or two of these men, could you please respond. Thanks Dion. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 22 March, 2006 - Dion I have tryed several times to contact you to no avail. I have several pictures of Okie Carr a couple of years before his death. He was my Cage Boy on Kelly Miller in the 60s. I think you were on that same show. Also in Ocean Spring, Miississippi. I have made several comments on Buckles Blog regarding you. I hope you get this. Empress Leota

    Reply: 24 March, 2006 - Have a couple of pictures of Okie, please contact me by email: tooters@wf.net here in Mineral Wells, Texas. Ruby L. (Fulbright) Harris

    Reply: 21 April, 2006 - Emperess Contact me. Dion, circusdays@yahoo.com

    Reply: 28 March, 2007 - If you would like to contact me I should be able to put you in contact with Oakie's daughter. She may be able to help you out. Kathy Holter Nealey

    Reply: 09 Jul 2008 - I am Okie's daughter, Amy Jo Carr, I worked on C&B for years with my dad. I found your page by googling my dads name. His birthday was last week. Anyway I appreciate the fact that when I googled his name such wonderful sites popped up. I have spent half the morning looking up and reading about my dad. I do have a myspace account that has some photos of my dad, www.myspace.com/carramyjo. Again I just wanted to say thank you! Several of my dads kids have a myspace, Dawn, Andrea, and our children. Much love and respect! Amy Jo

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1241. Downie Bros., 19 March, 2006 - What year did Downie Bros Circus play Watertown, N Y, June 29th. Thank you, Carl Kruger, NY. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 21 March, 2006 - Downie Bros. played Watertown, New York, June 29, 1933. Ted Bowman Route Collection

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1240. Zanetto Bale, 19 March, 2006 - My name is Nicola and I’m Tom and Mia Bale’s sister (see reply 12 March 2006). We were told our grandfather was called The Great Zanetto Bale. Our father was called Anthony Carmello Bale and one of my daughters is called Carmella to follow that tradition. We are enormously proud of our circus heritage. I believe our grandfather used to juggle with 12 inch knives; a famous act of his was gripping one of these knives between his teeth and catching a turnip thrown from a great height. Other members of the family were high wire and trapeze artistes. I remember we had one of the knives when I was a little girl, it was beautiful with an ornate handle. nicolahaxby@hotmail.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 23 March, 2006 - The Bale family is a well known circus family from Great Britain. To find more information try "Circuses in Great Britain". My friend Elvin Bale,and his sisters, were for several years with the Clyde Beatty show. You can look Elvin up by entering his name on a search engine. Erny Karoly

    Reply: 31 May, 2006 - Reply to Erny Karoly. Thank you so much for answering my query, Erny. I have since found out that Elvin’s grandfather was my grandfather’s cousin. They would have known each other as they all lived in Lambeth in the 1891 census. Kind regards, Nicky Haxby

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1239. Thomas Gard, equestrian/clown, 19 March, 2006 - I am looking for information regard a Thomas Gard who was an equestrian/clown in Burton's and Ashton's circus' during the late 1840s early 1850s. Any information about this man would be greatly appreciated. Regards, Clarrie Green. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1238. Richard Brothers circus, 18 March, 2006 - I am looking for information about the Richard Brothers circus. I know that they wintered in Pensacola, fl. I believe that they were around in the 1930's or so. K. Warren. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 24 March, 2006 - Franco Richards daughter, Maxine Meyers, may still reside in Chiefland, FL, and she would likely welcome a conversation with you about her father's circus. Check directory listings for her. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 24 March, 2006 - According to Robert Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, Richards Bros. Circus was owned and operated by H.B. Richards, W.C. Richards, and F. Richards from 1911 to 1928. I have recorded one Female Asian elephant named Maxine with them in 1928. W.C. Richards owned Maxine for a number of years after the show closed. Bob Cline

    Reply: 12 June, 2006 - I spoke with Maxine Myers about a year ago or so concerning Ring Bros. Circus looking for Happy Davis, the clown. She is living in San Andreas, Calif. She loves to talk circus. Franco was her brother. He was also in the Jay Gould circus. The Ring Bros. circus also had the elephant, Maxine. They also had Suzy and Bonnie. I have a picture of Maxine the elephant with Happy Davis and Sweet Pea the trainer. Maxine Myers father was friends with John Ringling and that is where the Ring Bros. Circus' name was formed. Hope this helped. Mona Ingold

    Reply: 20 January, 2007 - I have a lot of info on the Jay Gould Circus, and do have a 8 by 10 photo of Franco Richards. If interested contact me and I will send you a copy of the photo. Leo “Sonny” Albrecht, Lja125@mchsi.com

    Reply: 30 Jul 2008 - 8 June, 2006 - I spoke with Maxine Myers about a year ago concerning Ring Bros. circus which I am trying to find out about Happy Davis the clown. She is living in San Andreas, California. She loves to talk circus and will help all she can. I also have a picture of Happy Davis who is supposedly my biological father and my mother is Lois Guthrie who was on the "web". Maxine the elephant is in the picture as well as Sweet Pea, I believe he was the trainer. They (Ring Bros.) had 3 elephants, besides Maxine there was Suzy and Bonnie. Maxine also told me that Franco was in the Jay Gould Circus. I also have a picture of Jimmie Douglas with Happy Davis and another lady. Hope this helps. Mona Ingold

    Reply: 20 Sep 2009 - In regards to Happy Davis the clown. I was married to Happy Davis the clown. His name was Daryl Riviolo Davis, born 1931, worked on the Beatty show on rails, did aerial bars, leaps, Cristiani show, drove on Thrill shows, clowned Rodeos, Tom Paris Duo & Trio, Hi Dive at the Steel peer in Atlantic City, had a comedy car, worked as Happy Davis, Sir Chadwick Chase, the Karinas Trampoline Act (with me), designed Herbie the Love Bug for the Disney on Parade Road Show when it 1st came out in '69. Married Karin Stewart in '71, they have a son born 11/22/81, he has retired after 60 years on the trampoline. As of 6/07 he was living in Florence, Ky. (Cincinnati) I haven't heard from him in 2 years but I think he is still in the area. Hope this helps. Karin Stewart, karste45@live.com

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1237. Daredevil Duncans, 18 March, 2006 - I am the granddaughter of Paul Duncan of the "Daredevil Duncans" who performed with the Garners Flying Circus in the 1920's. My Grandfather also flew with the North Platte Aircraft Co. in Nebraska. They were stunt flyers and won many trophies for parachute jumps, wing walking and trapeze acts from their aircraft. If anyone has any information or recollections please e-mail at speak-man@earthlink.net, Thank you, Jeannie Speakman. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1236. Cetlin and Wilson, 18 March, 2006 - In 1948 and 1949 I carried stakes and helped Charlie Cheesley of Cetlin and Wilson set up the midway at the Indiana State Fair in Indianapolis, IN. I could not find him in 1950 and no one could help me a child of 12 years. He was very kind and I remember him still! Edward Haas, sandyeggo1@msn.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 01 June, 2006 - Charles Sheesley was still General Superintendent of Cetlin & Wilson Shows in 1955, accordding to The Billboard ( trade paper of show business). JIM ELLIOTT

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1235. Quaker Giant, 17 March, 2006 - Would anyone have any info concerning the life and career of the "Quaker Giant" named Hales, who exhibited himself at Barnum's American Museum in New York City in 1849? Reportly a giantess also appeared with him. Did they do anthing else to entertain the public at the museum, other then be very very tall? Rufus Ledbetter, apemonsterman@yahoo.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1234. Great Red Dale, 17 March, 2006 - I'm looking for pictures or posters that would have The Great Red Dale in them. Or if anybody has information about him. He was my Grandfather Charles Dippel, from the Ohio area. He was with The Ringling Barnum and Bailey Circus. He also played vaude ville with Al Jolson and Eddie Cantor. Thanks for your help, Elaine Dippel, Wichita, KS. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1233. Dunn family, 17 March, 2006 - I am looking for any info about a circus family originating in Ireland in the late 1800's. The family's name was Dunn or may have been a variation of Dunn. I believe that some of the family may have been aerialists. They also may have been Irish tinkers. lyne delmonte, delmontefamily@hotmail.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1232. World of Mirth, 40-50s, 17 March, 2006 - I sometimes helped at the World of Mirth in Washington, DC in the late 40s, early 50s and worked with a chimpanzee who was billed as the only Chimpanzee who could dress and undress herself. She would smoke cigarettes, ate ice cream and drank Coca Cola and the owner and his wife had a trailer full of clothes for her. She lived with them and had a baby too. I always wondered what became of her or if anyone else who worked there is still around. Just write to catoctinforge@aol.com. Thanks, Willis Johnson, Emmitsburg, MD, catoctinforge@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1231. Glauers Royal Midgets, 17 March, 2006 - I am wanting to find out any information about"Glauers Royal Midgets" who were a circus troupe in the Netherlands possibly in the 1920s or 1930s or so I understand. Please could anyone help me with any information however small Thank you. Mrs. Lois Jenkinson, Barnsley, South Yorkshire, jenkinsonlois@yahoo.co.uk. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 22 March, 2006 - There are 4 pictures of the Glauers on www.circusmuseum.nl if you type Glauers in the search (zoeken) area you will find them. There is no info just pictures. Herman Voogd, hvoogd@teylersmuseum.nl

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1230. Thomas Gard, clown, 15 March, 2006 - I am looking for information about Thomas Gard who was a clown and equestrian in Burton's Circus and Ashton's Circus 1840s to early 1850s. Clarrie. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1229. High dive act 30s, 15 March, 2006 - My Husband's Grandparents were a high dive act in the 30's called either "The Flying Gordons", "Mermaida and her sirens of the Sea", "Buster Gordon and His Diving Troupe" and also one of the divers called herself "Lady Odiva". I have hundreds of their pictures, but I cannot find any information on their travels. I do know that they travelled to Cuba on several occasions, and travelled all over the carnival circut in the US, but that is all I know. Does anyone know about them? can you give me any information on them? Blondoscar@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 14 March, 2007 - I'm working on a theater piece in which she will be a featured character. I know that she was the headline performer at the 1910 opening of the largest indoor pool in New York city (at the time): the "plunge" at Public Bath #7, now recreated as the Brooklyn Lyceum. My guess has been that she performed both at Luna Park in Coney Island and at the Hippodrome in Manhattan. I know that she has been described as Somoan. Would love to learn as much as possible as i try to flesh out this character. vertextheater@yahoo.com from Brooklyn, NY. Best regards, DJ McDonald

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1228. Orton Michigan Circus Train fire 1884, 12 March, 2006 - I am looking for information on the Orton Michigan Circus Train fire, which is supposed to have occurred near Windsor Colorado, between Greeley and Fort Collins, Colorado in 1884. I am uncertain if a train wreck preceded this fire, which resulted in a number of fatalities. Some of the victims are buried in Greeley, Colorado. Any sources I might be referred to for historical information would be very helpful. Thanks very much. Jerry Garner, Greeley, Colorado. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 14 March, 2006 - The incident is covered in the "New York Times" of August 30, 1884. Your local librarian should be able to obtain a copy of the article. There may also be coverage in the weekly show trade journal, the "New York Clipper." This may have been Miles Orton's Anglo-American Shows. You will find a biography of Orton in Slout's "Olympians," on this website. At the head of the 17 car Orton circus train was a box car, which had been converted into a high-density sleeper [60 occupants]. After the doors were closed, bunks were erected inside that blocked the escape routes. A rubbish fire inside resulted in the death of eight men. The only unobstructed egress was a small window. It may have remained the worst such incident in circus history until 1903, when 23 people were killed in a Great Wallace mishap in Michigan. A number of other railroad circuses had box cars, but they were typically used for storage. Barnum & London tried to sell two older 46-foot long box sleepers in 1884 and it appears that the Great Wallace Shows may have had another one later, as seen in photographs. Further information on early circus sleeping cars can be found in a series of articles about circus trains in the "Bandwagon" in the early 1980s. Check the article index on this website. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 14 March, 2006 - See question number 83. John Polacsek

    Reply: 19 March, 2006 - Thank you to Mr. Fred Dahlinger for his response to Question 1228. jerry garner, Greeley, Colorado

    Reply: 07 June, 2006 - Jerry, I am Miles Orton the great nephew of Miles Orton who owned the Orton's Anglo-American Circus and train that had the horrible accident in Colorado on August 29, 1884. I have the information from "The Trib Online" of the Greeley Tribune. It has the headline "Circus train fire of 1884 one of Weld County's worst disasters". The article was written by Mike Peters of the Greely Tribune. The information can be found at the net address of www.greeleytrib.com/history/circusfire.html. The story was very critical of the circus manager, who was my great uncle, and it should have been critical. My great uncle Miles was apparently very callous and didn't give the dead men due respect and even left them there to be buried by the county and proceeded on to Denver for a performance there. Just one of the many episodes of the Orton Bros. Circus periods. My great grandfather, Hiram Orton originally started the circus which lasted up through the early 1930s then disbanded due to the depression days. Miles B. Orton

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1227. Don Carlo's Miniature Circus, 12 March, 2006 - I'm looking for info on "Don Carlo's Miniature Circus". I was going through my Grandfathers memoirs and according to that he was the "Wall of Death" rider for a short time, around the mid-1920's. Hope to hear from you soon, Lon Katschor bnl137@cfl.rr.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 09 Sep 2007 - Not sure if this is related to your search or not, but I have a large original framed painting on canvas signed “Carlo.” It is of three brightly-painted circus wagons with large, wooden wagon wheels rolling across some uneven terrain, their colors (red, yellow, purple) reflected in the water on the ground. It is somewhat abstract, done primarily in gold, orange, and brown, and the painting looks to be Spanish or possibly Mexican. The reference numbers on the back of the frame are R1273F, B# 8-14-65, R154. I believe this indicates that the painting is from 1965. Any information on such paintings would be most appreciated. Laura Mussman, Omaha, NE.

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1226. Royal Hanneford, Harrisburg, 11 March, 2006 - When was the Royal Hanneford circus in Harrisburg PA and who is Bello the circus clown. Frank J Galanti, frankiegee1@verizon.net. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 23 March, 2006 - Hanneford Circus has a web site. Have you checked there? Erny Karoly

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1225. Train wreck, Farmington NH, 11 March, 2006 - My dad owns a house in Farmington NH and there is an old tale of how many years ago a circus crew crashed in their train on my dads property. There used to be train tracks behind his house. The tale says that many people perished. I have searched on line for old Newspaper articles but could not find anything. Have you ever heard anything about this? MikeL Lopes, djmikel@sbcglobal.net, www.djmikel.com, Hollywood, CA. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1224. Employment records, Sarasota, 11 March, 2006 - Do you have any employment records dating back to the 1950s for Sarasota, Florida? Do you have an alumni of former workers? Tamara Shaffer, Chicago. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 12 March, 2006 - If your inquiry pertains to Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows employees between 1938 and 1956, the employment cards for all employees are at the Circus World Museum library. This would likely include those hired to work at the Sarasota winter quarters. Contact them with the name of the individual(s) of interest and you should be able to obtain a photocopy of the record. It includes name, address, next of kin, hiring date(s), position(s), pay rate and last date(s) worked, and perhaps other information. Fred Dahlinger

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1223. George Patterson, trampoline, 11 March, 2006 - My Great Grandfather was George Patterson. He was the first man to do a double sommersault on a trampoline and he was a part of the Bouding Patterson's. That is all I was ever told. Also, I believe he was part of a European Circus. Are you able to give me any other information? Warm Regards, Rita Olsen, Santa Nella, CA, olsenrita@msn.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1222. Pee-Jay Ringens, bicycle daredevil, 11 March, 2006 - I am a documentary filmmaker based in Manchester, UK. I am looking for informations about Pee-Jay Ringens, a bicycle daredevil. I have founded some footage of his stunts dated between 1928 and 1946, he was 71 at that time. I got intrigued by this man! All I know is that he once performed,in 1945, at the Palisades Park in New Jersey. Any assistance would be very much appreciated! Thank you. Email: Raffaele@paradocsfilms.co.uk, Raffaele di Sipio, Paradocs Films, Manchester, UK. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1221. Trapeze artist, Panama, 11 March, 2006 - I am looking for any info on my grandmother who was a trapeze artist in Panama in the early 1900's. She went to Jamaica with my grandfather in about 1915. (My father was born in 1927 and he is the second youngest of 5 so I am guessing that she retired by 1915). I have very little knowledge about the circus world in Panama and would be grateful for any information what so ever. Many thanks, Elaine Pennicott Banks, elaine@banx.freeserve.co.uk. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1220. Photos needed, 10 March, 2006 - I am the Director of Public Relations and Media for the Circus Fans Association of America. The PR Committee is currently putting together a DVD production called "Put A Little Circus In Your Life". We need two pictures. We need a picture of an early overland circus with a scene of horses or elephants pulling circus wagons. Also we need a picture of a floating palace that carried shows in the 1800's on the river system in the US. Sometimes referred to as the Floating Palace. If one has such pictures copies would be appreciated. Contact Ed Limbach, ELim784586@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 12 March, 2006 - Don't know if it is of any help but there is a lot of photo's and poster to be found on http://www.circusmuseum.nl/. ray perkin, rayperkin@hotmail.com

    Reply: 15 March, 2006 - Mr. Limbach - Gleason's Pictorial (Boston) of 19 February 1853 has a fine drawing of Spalding & Rogers' Floating Palace. If you'll give me your mailing address, I'll send it to you. sthayer@tattersall-design.com

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1219. RBBB train accident 1956, 10 March, 2006 - I am trying to find some information about a railroad accident on RBBB 1956 tour. If yes, when and where. Details. Thanks for any help. Claude Bordez. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 24 March, 2006 - You might start your search with a check of Joe Bradbury's articles about the 1956 RBBB tour. He covered the entire season in a series of thorough articles in the "White Tops," journal of the Circus Fans Association. You can locate them in the article index on the website. Back copies are likely available from the CFA via their website. Based on the information there, you can go to the Billboard for further coverage, and perhaps local newspapers. There were a number of incidents on the 1956 tour, not necessarily all of them were committed to the permanent record. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 17 Jan 2009 - My parents, Lilly & Svend Kristensen, were on the RBBB show when the train wreck occurred in the 1950's and they have pictures of it. Kim

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1218. Circus fire early 1900s, 10 March, 2006 - Looking for info on any circus fire in the very early 1900's in which I am told two relatives were killed. Supposedly they were aerialists. Their surnames were Baker. The extent of the fire and the other victims,if any, is unknown to me. I think the Circus Train Wreck of 1918 would been too late to meet the time line I'm searching. Any leads would be appreciated. Jim. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 24 March, 2006 - There is an incomplete listing of circus mishaps in Harry P. Bowman's booklet, "As Told on a Sunday Run." You should ask your local librarian to request it on interlibrary loan. Having such limited and sketchy data will make finding the specific incident difficult. If the fire was unrelated to specific circus activity [a RR wreck, winter quarters fire, tent fire, etc.] you'll need to pursue it by other means. Try searching through major newspaper databases; you might get a hit with some key-word searching. You may want to consult with a professional genealogist for guidance. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 26 March, 2006 - You have asked about a fire in the early 1900's. You didn't elaborate as to on the showgrounds, on the train, in Winter Quarters etc. Unfortunately at the turn of the centurt, animals bedding and hay combined with oil or kerosene lamps caused more fires than we care to remember. Most of the time animals were the victims but people may have been involved also. The Barnum & Bailey Circus had a large fire on the lot in the early 1900's. ( I can find a more exact date if you need one )Campbell Bros. Circus had a train fire in Pawnee City, NE. on May 3, 1904. Coop and Lents Circus had another train fire on May 12, 1917 in Kenton, Ohio. The Barnum & London winter quarters burned Nov. 20, 1887. These are just a few that animals died in that I'm aware of. There are others as well. Bob Cline

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1217. Current state of circuses, 08 March, 2006 - I was curious if there was anyone I could talk to about the current state of circuses in the US and how they are changing and evolving with the times (such as Ringling Bros.). mike barnett, rockthemike@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 10 March, 2006 - I am certain there are any number of viewers that can give you insight into an ever changing world of the circus. There are differing view points as to what a "Real" circus is. There are economic factors, insurance issues, animal rights disagreements, as well as simple general interest. There are those that try as hard as anyone can to do the right thing to earn a living and there are those that do everything any way they can to make a buck.
          Certainly the circus is ever evolving and changing. No one wants to go see the same exact thing time after time. The need to survive in today's business world requires a battery of lawyers and contracts, as well as accountants or CPA's. The days of a hand shake as a contract have virtually passed on.
          The circus I grew up with is not the circus this young generation is growing up with now. MY three rings under canvas with plenty of animals, thrills, spills, and chills came to town on trucks. My dad saw the circus come to town on rails with horses and elephants doing 80% of the work. Thirty years ago, it was unheard of for a circus to stay in the same town for a week at a time except for the huge gigs like Madison Square Garden or the Chicago and Boston dates. Now shows like Cirque Soliel stay for two and three months at a time in some spots.
          Just in the last five to ten years almost all shows have dropped the live music for a tape recording. No more Payroll there. The Circus Side Show with it's wonders of the world and exhibits of strange, odd, curious, and unusual, behavior doesn't exist on any show anymore. Posters and billboards plastered across the town announcing the arrival of the summer's greatest entertainment value, now are an occasional radio spot or TV clip at best. That's just some of the changes.
          What hasn't changed are the people that make the circus happen. The Performers. They still work harder than any group of people anywhere else in America. They exude more pride in their craft than anyone in the entertainment field today. They practice day in and day out. The exercise required to do a triple somersault in mid-air or jump over someone on the highwire isn't achieved from laying around watching TV all day. The people in the circus are generally, but not always, from generations of previous circus families. They marry into circus families. The teach their children circus routines. There may be 40 different travel trailers but they become one family when they work together.
          The circus people with animals are fighting for their lives today. The DOT requires CDL driver's licenses and log books. The animals require feed and water and fresh air enroute. The different levels of Governments all are operating on different rules where ever you go so this form in this state is no good in that state. A veterinarian needs to certify the animals health to be able to cross any state line. Again and again and again. Training of any animal requires the utmost patience. Nothing good is accomplished without the love and commitment for your animals. Insurance requirements are never the same as well as incredibly expensive. There's vehicle insurance, fuel and travel permits, local permits as well as a couple local bans. If that isn't bad enough, the animal rights groups act as if they are the only ones that know what is right and good, love to give you an earful of their viewpoint, will joyously solicit all the money you will give them, and yet refuse to lift a finger to do anything to better the animal's welfare.
          The other thing that hasn't changed in over 200 hundred years of the circus in America is it is still the Greatest form of live FAMILY entertainment available anywhere, at any cost. Hopefully this helps just a little bit. Bob Cline

    Reply: 11 March, 2006 - Well said, Bob Cline. Janette L. Jones, jljones@molalla.net

    Reply: 23 March, 2006 - Ringling was here in Greensboro NC the first week in February. NO MORE RINGS! The owners it appears want to compete with Cirque Soliel. There is no comparison to Cirque and a real circus. They do a wonderful job at what they do but, they are not a circus. A circus means Elephants, Tigers, Horses, Zebras and a host of other exotic animals. I remember when a performer played "Center Ring" at Ringling, they were considered tops in the world! It was the highest prestige a performer or act could achieve. The Circus is true family entertainment. You don't have to put any "parental controls" on your children when you attend a circus; unless it is trying to keep them in their seats. I was sad when the Big Top folded; there were less and less animals, and now; no more Rings. Thank God for the smaller shows who are struggling to keep the American Circus alive. Erny Karoly

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1216. Johnny J. Jones Midway Painting, Stella?, 07 March, 2006 - I'm a graduate student from Ontario, Canada trying to get some information about a painting, a nude woman called "Stella", that was exhibited at the Canadian National Exhibition, or CNE, in 1919. "Stella" was exhibited on the CNE midway as part of the Johnny J. Jones travelling circus group, and the painting was either painted, owned, or taken care of (I'm not sure which) by a man named Eddie Vaugh. Stella" was very popular and a great success - our newspapers from that time have seemingly endless ads from 1919 saying 'last chance to see Stella' and the like. But try as I might, I can't get any more info. on Johnny J. Jones' nudes, or "Stella" in particular. This painting would, presumably, have been shown all over the States as well, and I know it was shown somewhere in Western Canada (Edmonton???) during 1919 as well. Any assistance would be very much appreciated! My e-mail address is dionysian_kat@yahoo.ca. Thanks all! Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 08 March, 2006 - Contact Al Stencell in Toronto, he may be able to assist you. He has done a book about sideshows, another on girl shows and is currently doing one on back end shows. Peripheral coverage will be in Bob Goldsack's Johnny J. Jones book. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 18 June 2009 - My Grandfather August Schivo and his brother Frank Schivo had two night clubs in San Francisco called Thelia and the Hippadrome. My father told me the Stella a nude painting hung in the Hippadrome and it was purchased after the 1915 fair. It was mentioned briefly being in a restaurant near San Francisco at this time. But I misplaced the article and don't have the name of the restaurant. I have the original never seen pictures of the Hippadrome but don't see it on the inside. I wanted to include it in the family history book I am writing. Walter Schivo, Novato, Calif

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1215. Henry Holtman Ringling horse trainer, 06 March, 2006 - I need to find out information on Henry Holtman who was with the circus. He trained horses for Ringling Brothers from approximately 1909-1930. I have a photo of him in Quincy Illinois (where I live) in 1910. It is original photo of him in front of a circus wagon. I would appreciate any information you could supply. Thank You, mmbutler@KSNI.net. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1214. Early cage acts on Barnum & Bailey, 06 March, 2006 - I'm tryng to know the first cage acts presented in a round steel arena in an American traveling tented circus. I believe the first of such presentations in the Usa was the Hagenbeck show for the Chicago Ex., 1893. I’m specially interested to know: which was the firt cage act on Barnum & Bailey? The only trace I found is a 1894 poster where the displays depicted are in all similar to the Hagenbeck tricks, and the trainer is very similar to Heinrich Mehrmann (Carl Hagenbeck’s brother-in-law and chief trainer). It is possible that Bailey hired part of the Hagenbeck’s Chicago show for the circus tour? If yes, who was the trainer? Do sombody can retrace a kind of timeline of B & B cage acts before 1920? The excellent chronology in Joys book about tamers doesn’t seem complete or clear for this period. Thanks. Raffaele De Ritis, Italy. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 07 March, 2006 - The "first" US presentation is typically credited to the Adam Forepaugh Circus in 1891, presented by Col. Edgar Daniel Boone and Mlle. Carlotta. The couple was also at the 1894 Mid Winter Fair in San Francisco and some searching would reveal their presence elsewhere. Another party is currently researching them and if you post further interest perhaps they will contact you.
          This bit of intelligence comes from Robert F. Sabia: "On page 36 of the 1891 route book of the Forepaugh Show it reads as follows in pertinent part: DISPLAY NO. 14 "The far Famed and Renowned 'Lion King,' Colonel Edgar Daniel Boone, 'The Lion Queen,' Miss Carlotta, introducing their Five Forest Bred Lions in Forty Foot Circular Steel Cage. Together with their Great German Boar Hound Saxon. Forming Pedestals, Banner Holders for the leaping hound Saxon. Playing See-Saw. Firing Pistol. Rough and tumble. Riding Bicycle and Harnessed to Chariot. The most astonishing exhibition of man's supremacy over the brute creation." Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 06 Feb 2010 - Family lore has it that my grand parents Theodore Nissen and his assistant Martha Young were lion tamers with Col. Edgar Daniel Boone’s Circus before 1885. I do not know if they were performing in a cage or not, but I presume that the audience was protected from the lions by some sort of fence other restraint. David C. Smalldavidcsmall@netscape.net

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1213. Montreal circus pre 1960-70s, 06 March, 2006 - I'm looking for information on the beginnings of contemporary circus in Montreal, particularly pre 1960s/1970s. It's research for an article in an upcoming issue of Canadian Geographic. Colleen Kimmett, cgintern@canadiangeographic.ca. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1212. Trapeze fall late 1930s, 06 March, 2006 - My Father has a question. Between the year 1937 and 1939, he's not sure, he was in the hospital in New York City (around 50th and 8th Ave.) and shared a room with a Trapeze artist who had fallen from a high wire act in Madison Square Gardens, NYC. This gentleman broke his leg as well as an arm and my Dad would like to know if anyone knows his name. Thanks for your time. My e-mail is hmkling@attg.net. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 07 March, 2006 - In Joe Bradbury's definative article in the Jan/Feb issue of The White Tops,on the 1939 RBBB show, he writes on page 26 thereof "The first serious accident occured with the season less than two days old when Rosello fell and was seriously injured on Thursday evening, April 6. He slipped following his routine when he lost his grip while making a rope slide descent, fall 15-20 feet to the stage. He waas carried from the arena unconscious suffering broken wrists, fractured ankle and possible internal injuries. He was taken to Polyclinic Hospital and physcians said the aerialist definitely would be unable to work for several months and might be out action permanently." I searched the 1939 route book and Mr. Rosello's name does not show up which means to me that it is likely he did not return to the Show that year. His subsequent career is not known to me. Robert F Sabia

    Reply: 08 March, 2006 - I'm writing for my Dad, Hector Muxo, who was inquiring the name of the trapeze artist who fell from a high wire act in Madison Square Gardens in 1939. My dad, who will be 94 this March thanks you so much, Mr. Sabia, for your prompt response. Mrs. H. Klinger

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1211. Hal & Grace Crider, 06 March, 2006 - I am looking for photos of Hal Crider, who was an aerobatic performer with Barnum & Bailey, as well as, Grace Crider, who rode the horses. They would have been involved 1910-1920. Any information or direction of where to look would be greatly appreciated. Dcr3298@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1210. Lady Elizabeth, fat lady, 05 March, 2006 - I'm looking for information about a "Lady Elizabeth" who was the fat lady traveling with the P.T. Barnum circus, probably in the mid 1800's. She supposedly married the "thin man" a William Beaton. She died in Vernon County, Wisconsin. Appreciate any information or stories. Arlene Williamson, friscowil@hotmail.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1209. Popcorn George, 06 March, 2006 - Inventor of the Popcorn ball, Popcorn George, was a relative of my mother's. Although my mother shared some info, she died before I found out more. Has anyone ever heard of him? D Galager w.galager@mchsi.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 06 March, 2006 - George W. "Popcorn" Hall and his descendants are well documented in several books and articles. The latest is in "Badger State Showmen" (1998) by the writer and Stuart Thayer, pages 59-70. Speak with your local librarian about obtaining the book via interlibrary loan. There is also extended coverage on Hall in Slout's "Olympians," which is available on this website. Click on the "History" button, then "Olympians," and then the Ha entries. Scroll down and you'll readily find him. Fred Dahlinger

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1208. Clayton Behee, Flying Beehees, 06 March, 2006 - I wonder if you can help me. I am trying to find out anything that might be available on Clayton Earl Behee, He also may be just known as Clayton Behee. Also a group called "The Flying Beehees." Also any information where I could obtain photographs of Mr. Behee would be appreciated. I am doing this research at the request of his daughter, Paula Behee. Dale Miller, Tripod31@machlink.com Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 06 March, 2006 - There are at least three pictures in the Charles W Cushman collection, at the Indiana University Archives/digital library program. Two are of Rose Behee, the collection is avaliable on line and is searchable. These photos are great color slides taken in Chicago, in the 1940's of the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Great Combined Shows.- B.J. Hugo, OK

    Reply: 07 March, 2006 - Are you familiar with the great color photo of Clayton, Rose and Bobby on page XVI of the March 1948 issue of National Geographic? If you can't find it, e-mail me at egyhal@bellsouth.net and I'll scan it for you. My wife and I worked on the Hanneford advance with Clay in the 1970s when he was a telephone promoter. Regards - Ole Whitey

    Reply: 12 March, 2006 - I recently bought a collection of circus items. One was the front cover of Billboard dated July 29,1939 with the Flying BeHees. Whoever had this, cut the article from inside and pasted it to the cover. It is a nice clear picture of them while being featured on the Cole Bros. Circus at the time. If you want it, I'll be glad to give it to you. Bob Cline fivetiger@marlboroelectric.net

    Reply: 21 April, 2006 - I knew Clayton Behee well in the early 1970's when we both worked for Bill English's Circus Classics that was touring the Hanneford Circus. The first season I was the bill poster and I would run into Clayton in various towns where he was a phone promoter for Bill. Clayton preferred to work the Canadian towns for some reason and after Bill gave up on the Hanneford show Clayton remained in Guelph, Ontario and worked various phone rooms operations in and around there. One of his trainees worked some phone dates for me on a winter circus stage tour. I think Bill continued to use Clayton as a phone promoter on some of Phil Morris' magic show dates in Ontario. By this time, Clayton had got pretty alcoholic. He told me he had a lot of pain from being a flyer. He had various girl friends in Guelph. I never heard if he died up here or not. He always reminded me of a little Irish leprechaun! He had a great smile and a twinkle in his eye; a kind person. A ladies' man. Al Stencell

    Reply: 10 September, 2006 - I can tell you the flying Behees practiced in Leavenworth, Kansas. My grandmother, Dorothy Jane Valentine Behee reminded me of that fact many times. One time, my father, Robert Edward Behee, took me into the Leavenworth Public Library to show me in a book of Who's Who in America a notation of one of the flying Behees to be the first to perform a certain feat, I believe 3 1/2 flips and being caught by someone else on a trapeze. One of my sisters is Paula Linda Behee. Robin Behee

    Reply: 09 Sep 2007 - Hi, I met Clayton Behee in 1966-68 when he was an advance man for the circus in Walkerton Ontario. Joseph O'Hagan, johagan@sympatico.ca

    Reply: 21 Nov 2007 - There must have been more "Flying Behees" than I was aware of! My parents were best friends of Bob and Mickey Behee, who performed with the Ringling Bros. circus in the 1930's-1940's. They were a flying trapeze act, and Bob also performed as the "Human Cannonball", though I don't know just when. They had one child, Bonnie, who is married and now living, I believe, in Brown Deer, Wisconsin (a northern suburb of Milwaukee). Bob completed his working career as chief engineer at channel 4 (NBC affiliate) in Milwaukee, and was a skilled HAM operator. Bob and Mickey retired to Florida many years ago, and have passed on to the big circus. Kent Williams, electrike@wi.rr.com

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1207. Circus Tokyo 1950s, 05 March, 2006 - Is there any history on the circus that used to set up in the Yakusuni Shrine in Tokyo in the 1950s? steven canton, sjcboxing@hotmail.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1206. Tom Thumb litho by N. Currier, 05 March, 2006 - Would like to correspond with anyone who knows the current location of a Nathaniel Currier lithograph with the following information - Printed at top - "As he appeared before her majesty Queen Victoria" - center image shows Tom Thumb standing on a chair. There are eight small vignettes of Tom Thumb wearing various costumes surrounding the center image - at top center there is a view of Tom Thumb's horse drawn carriage. The print bears the inscription - "From a daguerreotype by Plumbe." Please note - we are Not seeking the print that shows the center image of Tom Thumb surrounded by fourteen vignettes. We need to reproduce this image in our forthcoming biography of the photographer, John Plumbe Jr.,(1809-1857). I would greatly appreciate hearing from anyone about this print. Thank you. Cliff Krainik, krainik@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 06 March, 2006 - The likely collections to try, if you have not done so, are the American Antiquarian Society, Worcester, MA; New York Public Library; New York Historical Society, NY, NY; and Harvard Theater Collection, Cambridge, MA. An image similar to the one you described is reproduced on page 55 of the Durant "Pictorial History of the American Circus." The credits assign it to the New York Historical Society. It has Thumb standing upon a chair, with seven vignettes [top one is the "equipage"], the top legend and bottom vignette were trimmed off in the image but perhaps remain on the original. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 07 March, 2006 - Thank you for your help, Mr. Dahlinger. Cliff Krainik

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1205. Ingles, lion trainer, 05 March, 2006 - Does anyone know of a circus that was in Canada and had a lion trainer with the last name Ingles? Shadee1975@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1204. Looking for any of the Keppos family, 04 March, 2006 - I am looking to contact the Keppos family - Finnish acrobats during the 60s-80s. Some of them settled in Crozet, Virginia. I have not had any luck finding them there. Just wanting to say hello after all these years! Kim Kristensen, of the Riding Kristensens (1955-1973). Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 07 March, 2006 - The Jan/Feb 1980 issue of the White Tops has a full page write up on the 1979 Vargus. In addition the Jan/Feb 1980 issue of the Bandwagon, has a brief season review. Lastly the program and a bit more is set forth in Sep/Oct 1979 issue of the White Tops. Trust the foregoing will be a starter of an information base. Robert F Sabia

    Reply: 21 April, 2006 - I interviewed Sulow Keppo for my book Girl Show back in the 1990's. He was living at Crozet, Virginia. The Keppos had first come to Canada and then on into the States to work on shows. They had worked a lot of seasons for Jack Norman who produced the Broadway to Hollywood girl revue on the James E. Strates Midway for twenty seasons or so. His girls, Rae, Iris, and Anita were all dancers, contortionists, etc. Very nice people. Sulow was pretty old by then. He may have passed on. Al Stencell

    Reply: 16 Oct 2008 - I am wondering if it is the same family. I went to school with Iris Keppo in the late 50's in Miami Florida. The family alway left in the Winter for the circus. Sarah Benjamin

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1203a. Circus in Los Angeles 1957, 04 March, 2006 - I am looking for any information on what circus my mom, Ramona or Mona Simental, joined at 16 yrs old and performed with an elephant named Suzie or Suzie Q in 1957 in the Los Angeles area. I have recently discovered some pictures and would like to learn more since she is no longer living. I think Los Volantes 2 man cyclist group also worked with her. My name is Fancisca Mireles and I live in San Diego, CA. My emial is NUTTY4DISNEY@HOTMAIL.COM. Thank you. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1204a. Circus Vargas 1979, 04 March, 2006 - My name is Johnnie Carrier and I am looking for some information concerning the Circus Vargas show in 1979. I am looking for itinerary, perfomers and clowns. Any and all help would be fantastic. Thanks and may all your days be circus days. My email is johnniec5859@yahoo.com, please contact me there. Thanks jc. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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1203. Archie Gayer, 03 March, 2006 - Archie Gayer was involved in circus life throughout his life time. My father, Robert H. Petersen, was his brother and they were separated at an early age when their parents died. They only found each other again in 1939 when my father saw an article in Look Magazine which covered the New York World Fair. He saw an article on Archie and through the Fair was able to contact him. My father had been sent to the mid-West on one of the Orphan Trains from New York at the age of 5. I saw something on your website which mentioned Archie Gayer in connection with the Tom Packs Circus in 1955. I know that he was associated with the circus earlier than that and that he also was involved in State Fairs and Pacific Ocean Park in Los Angeles as well as the Dancing Waters Shows. I'm sorry that I cannot be more specific. Thank you in advance for any info you can provide on Archie. Marquita Doassans. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 08 July 2007 - Markie, This is Shirley. Haven't heard from you in years. Please respond to me and I will write back. I couldn' get Archie to send this e-mail. Shirley, ShirleyAnnG@charter.net

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1202. Circus, 1906 earthquake, 03 March, 2006 - What circus was scheduled to be in San Francisco in or around April 1906. My great grandfather was an advance man for a circus and was killed in the earthquake in San Francisco in April 1906. I am trying to find the name of the Circus he worked for. Fred Doyle, frdoyle@optonline.net. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 05 March, 2006 - I'm not sure but, that circus could have been the Karl Hagenbeck Circus. I have a picture dating from 1906 in San Francisco that came from my Grandfather. He and my Great Uncles were on that show at that time. The picture shows San Francisco in ruins and on fire. I would also be interested in knowing if it was The Hagenbeck Circus. This was the year before Hagenbeck was sold to Wallace. erny karoly

    Reply: 06 March, 2006 - There were a number of photos of the San Francisco earthquake circulated and having one is no proof that someone was there, just as the death of an advance man does not mean that there was to be a show in town. Of a few possible shows - The Carl Hagenbeck Greater shows opened in Cincinnati, Ohio in early April 1906, not close at all. The Sells Floto Circus was in Texas in April 1906, not close. But the Norris & Rowe Circus played at Oakland just across the bay on April 13 & 14. It was not scheduled to play San Francisco, but if you were an advance man with time on your hands you could take in the town across the bay. Ted Bowman Route Collection

    Reply: 06 March, 2006 - Mr. Doyle and Karoly: The Hagenbeck circus was in Washington D.C. in April of 1906 and touring Pennsylvania, I don’t believe they were on the West Coast. Unforunately, I do not have any information on what circus or tent show was in San Francisco in April. Good luck in your search. Richard Georgian, Lehigh Acres, FL

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1201. Norma Davenport Cristiani, 02 March, 2006 - This is for Norma Davenport Cristiani. Dear Norma, I called you from Texas several years ago about framing a circus but so many bad things happened after that I gave up on it and never have been able to reach you since. I am a retired high school band director. I just wanted to tell you that after seeing you perform when you and I were both pretty young, I went home and wrote an original piece for circus band called Ben Davenport's Screamer. I wrote out all the parts years ago but lost that arrangement. During the last several years I had the University of Arkansas Band, under the direction of Mr. Eldon Janzzen, record it. Now I have lost the tape. It bothers me that neither you nor Ben ever heard it. If you will just say the word I will write the score and parts and mail it to you absolutely free. There should be some great bands down there in winter quarters to play it. Let me know, Norma. Sincerely, John Kenna, Hughes Springs, Texas, Lockargo@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 02 March, 2006 - If you can put the music together again, there is a circus band in New England that may record it and put it on a CD album. They do 2 a year. check www.soundsofthecircus.com. Jim Cole

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