Reply: 29 June, 2006 - Count Olaf was listed as a performer in the 1931 Al G. Barnes Circus Sideshow. I would suspect that giant rings were a unique speciality sales item for this particular gentleman. Unfortunately there were no route books issued by the Barnes Circus from 1929-1936 to confirm his employment on the show for additional years. For that time period route sheets were issued with performance dates noted, and no performers listed. John Polacsek

Reply: 28 June, 2006 - Most circus histories will note the connection to the Latin word circus meaning circle, which, in turn, comes from the Greek kirkos meaning circle or ring. From it we get a whole group of English words related to circle or ring such as circuit, circular, circulate, circumference, circumscribe, and so on.
      The Roman circuses were great arenas where chariot races and other spectacles were held throughout the empire; the largest and most famous was the Circus Maximus in Rome. Scarcely anything remains except the open park-like space between the Palatine and Aventine hills that, interestingly, was the site of the Live 8 concert last year! The Circus Maximus seated 150,000 spectators (and more could be accommodated on the adjacent hills) in its nearly 2000 by 750 foot structure with a track that could hold 12 chariots. One of the best-preserved circuses is that of Maxentius near Rome on the Via Appia where the shape and key aspects of the structure are quite evident. The movie Ben Hur has a magnificent depiction of a chariot race in a Roman circus.
      The Latin word circus referred to the arena, not the entertainment. In eighteenth-century England, where the modern circus as we know it began, the word circus meant a circular space. For example, in the city of Bath, the Circus is a circular space where three great curved buildings enclose an oval space creating an architectural landmark completed in 1768 after a fourteen-year construction period. Equally famous is London's Piccadilly Circus, a circular traffic intersection built in 1819.
      When equestrians such as Philip Astley, Charles Hughes and others began performing in circular arenas, those spaces (not the entertainments!) were called circuses. Within decades, because the entertainments became so very popular and widespread, the activities seen in those circular spaces began to be regarded as circuses leading to the use of the word as now defined by those who use this website.
      The evolution (or etymology) of the definition of English words is the scope of the magnificent Oxford English Dictionary, begun in 1858 but not completed until 1928 (a new edition of 20 volumes appeared a decade ago). Through its many citations with the year of actual use of the word circus, you can discover the word's many uses and changes over time, including much of what I have outlined above. Richard Flint, Baltimore, MD

Reply: 28 June, 2006 - One of the origins of the term circus comes from the Romans. They had arenas where various forms of entertainment was given, such as chariot racing, sports, gladiator combat, etc. One example is Circus Maximus in Rome. I would think you could possibly find information on the net. Erny Karoly

Reply: 29 June, 2006 - Research and analysis by Stuart Thayer determined that the first American use of the word "circus" to designate the troupe itself, as opposed to the structure or performance installation, occurred in 1824. James W. Bancker ( -1866)employed the heading "Bancker's New York Circus" at the top of some of his newspaper advertisements that year. Previously phrasing such as "equestrian company" had been applied to designate the ring activity. The heading of 1824 provided both an owner and a geographic origin identity. See Thayer, "Annals of the American Circus," 1793-1860, (2000), page 66 [also page 134 of the 1976 released Volume I of "Annals."]. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 27 June, 2006 - Elephants can swim, however the distance of 30 miles that someone referred to is out of the question. There was an incident that occurred in Penobscot Bay, while the steamboat ROYAL TAR was transiting from St. John's, New Brunswick to Portland, Maine on October 25, 1836. According to Steamboat Disasters and Railroad Accidents in the United States, published in 1846 there was a menagerie on board the vessel. The boilers were out of water thus steam could not be produced to power the engine. The boat went to anchor as a storm approached. A fire was discovered on board and it soon spread, and when they cut the anchor rope and tried to make sail there were problems as the boat drifted out to sea. Six horses belonging to the caravan were backed overboard, three of them swam towards the nearest land and the other three swam in circles around the boat until exhausted and sank beneath the waves. The elephant remained on board until it was to hot for him and he leaped overboard. The animal sank to the bottom, and re-appeared after some time a considerable distance from the vessel. The elephant swam towards the nearest land, some five miles further out to sea, and was known to have perished in the attempt. John Polacsek

Reply: 29 June, 2006 - If your aunt was a direct employee of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows at any time between 1938 and 1956 there will be an employment card for her in the RBBB business records in the Circus World Museum library. If she was a contracted employee, who provided painting services for hire, there will be no record therein of her circus work. You may want to pursue conventional genealogical search techniques to establish her various places of residence to further your knowledge. Often residency provides additional insight into any circus involvement. If you're not familiar with the techniques and resources, check with your local library or historical society in your area for people that may be able to assist you. There's also considerable material available on the web, but some guidance in its use can pay large dividends, saving time and expense and yielding better results. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 25 June, 2006 - Dear Bill: Please check the Jul/Aug 1956 of the White Tops. On pages 9-11 thereof are the real time recollections of our own Fred Pfening, Jr. (editor and publisher of the Bandwagon). He also included a couple of photos that he took that night. Given the details that Mr. Pfening included, I suspect that it was his intent to create a permanent record of his observations that memorable day and night and he did just that. I had been on the RBBB lot in Plainville and Williamantic CT in June. Closing the show shortly was common talk on the show lot both days. Still the closing came as a stunner to me. Best, Robert F Sabia

Many of the famous players and entertainers of their day appeared at the old Academy (of Music) down to 1903, when it ceased to be used as a theater. Earlier that year it inadvertantly provided Pittsfield with an unexpected show, all the excitement of a native safari. One day two lions, part of a trained animal act, escaped in the alley behind the academy and bolted toward North Street, creating pandemonium and general alarm. The wildest rumors circulated as the town sprang to arms. One of the poor frightened beasts was hunted down and killed, the other was captured and retured to its cage, and so ended Pittsfield's first and only lion hunt. As a conversation piece, however, it went on for years.

Local people from Pittsfield shared the following: The lions were from a circus, playing at the Academy of Music and were allegedly istreated. Apparently this received world-wide coverage at the time. One of the lions was pregnant and due any minute. The distressed lion attacked a horse, and as a result, the lion was killed. Two doctors were brought into to try to save the valuable, but still unborn cubs for the circus. They were not successful. Since dead baby lion cubs had no value to the circus, the doctor took them home. He had one stuffed and mounted and placed under a glass dome. Apparently it was written up in Yankee magazine during the 1950s. I have sent an email to the magazine for assistance. Thank you if anyone knows more detail. JESJMSKALI@aol.com. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

Reply: 24 June, 2006 - The Baker boys constituted a famous English riding act that appeared with the great English circus Bertram Mills in the years before and after World War II. Father Tom Baker married into another famous English circus family, the Kayes, and the family had four sons: Tommy, Billy, Dicky, and Pat. When young Tommy, the eldest of the boys, was almost 13, he was seen in his family's small circus by Bertram Mills who then engaged him for his winter circus at Olympia in London appearing as "Young Steve." His brothers practiced with him and later they all appeared at Olympia as a juvenile riding troupe. Tommy died at age 22 just before he was to make another appearance at Olympia.
      The surviving brothers were able to continue with Mills in later years, including the Mills tenting seasons, and their riding act was hallmarked not by a few great tricks but more by the great speed of the horses circling the ring that created an exciting and dashing act that was regarded as one of the best in England. I don't know that the Baker Boys ever appeared as themselves while with Mills. Rather, they were part of a house act that was billed in the 1930s, for example, first as the Corinthians and later as the Cumberlands. Other English riders that worked in these acts included members of the Yelding and Paulo families. Since the writer asked, there are Mills posters featuring these acts.
      Billy Baker came to the US appearing as "Sir William Baker" and presented a liberty horse act on Ringling in the early 1970s and on Vargas in the late 1970s. He also appeared with Atayde in Mexico. While Billy was on Vargas, his brothers Dicky and Pat appeared on the same show as clowns. I believe they are all deceased. Billy had a marvelous memory filled with great stories and affection for the circus of his youth. Billy's widow, who came from the Hungarian Magyar teeterboard troupe, is in a Florida nursing home. Their son, named for his uncle Tommy, would be in his 50s and was working with his father in the 1970s.
      There is a well-known English book about a season with the Baker circus when the boys were young. Edward Seago, a British artist of some fame, became quite close to the Bakers and wrote about a tenting season with the family show titled Circus Company (London: Putnam, 1933) for which John Masefield, then poet laureate of England, authored the introduction. The book is a lyrical account of circus life with 16 of Seago's wonderful charcoal drawings. Towards the end, Seago tells of young Tommy leaving the family circus to marry a fellow performer and of his premature death soon after from peritonitis.
      With the name Baker, I am wondering if the writer of this query has a family relationship or is just curious because of the name connection. In any event, I would welcome hearing from those who also knew Billy Baker. Richard Flint, Baltimore, MD

Reply: 24 June, 2006 - Hi Leslie, The only Baker family of English decent I know of who worked with horses in the circus would be William Baker (now deceased) who presented liberty horses on Ringling and also Circus Vargas. His son Tommy, works spot dates as a ringmaster, having recently (last Nov.) done the Shrine Circus in Evansville, Indiana for Paul Kaye. Jim Cole

Reply: 25 June, 2006 - In the late 1980's my wife, Trudy & I spent 2 years on Circus Vargas, where she presented her Liberty Act in a display with Billy Baker. He was always a gentleman, always cooperative, working for the benefit of the display, not the individual act, and would always style & bow to Trudy at the beginning & end of the act. Working with him and knowing him was a pleasure. Bill Strong

Reply: 27 June, 2006 - In 1987& 1988 Sir William Baker shared the position of Horse Superintendents with Trudy and Bill Strong on Circus Vargas. If you are interested there is a new DVD that includes about 2 hours of the rough cuts from Circus Vargas in 1987. This was the video that was shot so that an appropriate commercial could be produced. Among the acts are Alan Gold and his cats, Rex Williams and the elephants, Ted Polk and Colonel Joe the pachyderm, the Fornisari clowns, and it shows the liberty horse acts as presented by Sir William Baker, and that of Trudy Strong. If you are interested in the DVD email me at artistofdetroit@aol.com or check the upcoming ad in Circus Report. John Polacsek

Reply: 25 September, 2006 - My great great grandmother was Caroline Baker who married into the Butcher circus family (also equestrians). My great grandmother, Caroline Butcher, married Charles Atkinson. One of her brothers started the Paulo Circus, who also did an equestrian act. My grandmother, Caroline Atkinson (Damsell), was in the Paulo circus as were many of here children. I will dig out other information for you and I have an old circus book with some pictures of the Baker Boys. Ann Damsell, ann@gardencentre.com

Reply: 24 June, 2006 - Mr. Wehrmann desires to know when the Hagenbeck circus traveled to Montevideo, Uruguay, 1936 or 1937? What was the name of the ship? The Hamburg South [steamship line?]? The "Paraguay"? Thanks from Florida. Mr. Wehrmann is age 87.

I don't think that this South American venture was a branch of the 1935, 1937 or 1938 Hagenbeck-Wallace operation in America. It was more likely something from Stellingen, Germany or the mis-use of the Hagenbeck name by a third party. There have been some recent books published about the Hagenbeck operation. The American expert on Hagenbeck is Nigel Rothfels at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 25 June, 2006 - The writer may be confusing the travels of the famous German Circus Sarrasani, the largest and grandest in Europe in the first decades of the last century. Like many circuses owners, Hans Stosch-Sarrasani left a Depression-ridden country to tour areas with greater financial opportunities. His first South American tour of Brazil, Uruguay, and Argentina began in late 1923 and lasted almost two years. The second tour to the same three countries was in 1934-1936. More information can be found in Gustavo Bernstein's "Sarrasani: entre la Fábula y la Epopeya" (Buenos Aires: Editorial Biblos, 2000) and Ernst Günther's "Sarrasani wie er wirklich war" (Berlin [GDR], 1984) though I understand there is a more recent edition of Günther's excellent work. Richard Flint, Baltimore, MD

Reply: 26 June, 2006 - Mr. Flint is correct about Cirkus Sarrasani touring South America during the 1930's. My father and Uncles performed at time with Sarrasani. I have several pictures taken at that time. I also have a "Goucho" riding crop and Crocodile brief case that my Dad brought back from there at that time. I have one picture that was taken at the "end of the railroad" in Patagonia. I have memories of many stories my dad told me of his tour in South America with Cirkus Sarrasani. My cousin Leandro was born in Argentina at that time and his God Father was Alfredo Landon ( Langdon?) Sincerely Erny Karoly ( The Marton Karoly Riders)

Reply: 02 August, 2006 - My father and mother met in Circus Sarrasani South America in 1927 or 1928. We have a Circus Illustrierte from that time. My Mother was a chorus girl (they had about 66 girls at that time). My Father was in Mogador's Moroccan Troupe. My Mother often told me the story of how when Mr. Stosh died, his favorite, beloved elephant died a few months later. fatima

Reply: 14 January, 2007 - The Carl Hagenbeck Circus arrived to the Montevideo port, Uruguay, in the ship Paraguay the 4 December of 1936, proceeding of Hamburg, Germany. During the trip a storm take the ship and several vehicles was damaged. The circus début was the 11 December in the Rodo Park, Montevideo city, after they comes to Buenos Aires, Argentina, realizing an important tour along the country in 1937. The circus owner was Lorenz Hagenbeck, youngest son of Carl. Some names: Rudolph Mathies and his tigers, Walter Kaden´s elephants, Erich Hagenbeck seven seals, The Zemmganos, Lulu Gautier, and more. Cesar Ortega fliaortega@netverk.com.ar

Reply: 23 Dec 2007 - This message is for Fatima: Your parents met at the circus, just like my parents did in Germany before WWII. You say that your father was with the Mogador's Moroccan Troupe, my father was with the Marrakesh Moroccan Troupe and I wonder if they ever met, since there weren't that many Moroccan acrobats at the time. I am doing some research on the subject and would appreciate it if you coul contact me to exchange some knowledge. Thank you. Abe, abehantout@comcast.net

1) who designed the circus-style "electric chair?"
2) when was it first put into use?
3) what actual circuses had this as part of its 10-in-1 or other shows?
4) who manufactured the chairs?
5) what famous acts (if any) used/promoted the chairs?

There is still such a chair in use at the Coney Island sideshow in 2006, though it is gimmicked up and painted in a very garish manner. I last saw an "authentic" looking chair in the 1960s as part of the James E. Strates shows that was used by Melvin Burkhart. The Strates shows date back to approximately 1923, so it is conceivable that the chair used by Burkhart was an "original," but that only indicates that could have been such chairs in existence circa 1923.
      Just to be clear, although obvious, the act involves getting an audience member to sit in the chair. Various electrical "tricks" are performed that involve making sparks or lighting fluorescent tubes held in the hand of the "victim." The chairs are tricked up with loud noises, flashing lights, spark gaps and other devices to make them look far scarier than they are. Thank you. E. Summer. Respond to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

Reply: 02 July, 2006 - Photographs of side show interiors are relatively rare, so you'll be lucky to find any documentation in that regard. Show business records, including employment data, are also very scarce. You can find side show rosters in the weekly circus, carnival amusement park and Coney Island columns in "Billboard" [from circa 1900 to 1960] and "New York Clipper" [to 1923]. Also look for firms or people that specialized in the fabrication of such devices. If they made one, they likely made more for others and advertised the fact in "Billboard." Side shows were frequently contracted out to another person, a person holding the concession, the performers not being direct show or park employees.
      I'd recommend looking at photographs of side show bannerlines. They're likely to depict any "electric girl" or "electric chair" type activity inside the tent. There have been several books on the topic of sideshow banners, as well as an article or two in Bandwagon. James Taylor also issued a special edition of "Shocked and Amazed" covering Coney Island side show activity. You can also search www.newspaperarchive.com for references in vintage newspapers. It's a subscription service.
      The chair routine may have been implemented following some particularly well-aggrandized state execution, an act that placed it firmly in the mind of midway goers. Florescent tubes were likely a later addition, when they were commonly available. Shows used a variety of primitive lighting, then went to open arc [1879], incandescent, neon [1930s?], then florescent.
      Ward Hall, Gibsonton, FL may be able to provide some insights. He's quite familiar with side show lore, the practitioners, etc. Al Stencell, Toronto, Canada is currently writing about back end shows and will likely comment on the topic. You might check his current side show book, "Seeing is Believing,"too.
      I would not assume that the Strates chair dates back to 1923. The show changed a lot through the years, endured a devastating fire, had different side shows, etc.
      A primary question is the date when Tesla coils became available for purchase by members of the public. Not everyone is qualified to handle such equipment and that may have meant restricted sales and a delay in market activity. If you examine existing apparatus, nameplate data might provide clues as to vintage, manufacturer and history. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 16 September, 2006 - On page 24 of William Gresham's book "Monster Midway," Frank Bergen recalled that he had an electric chair in his "Wonderland" side show/museum/illusion show on the Joseph G. Ferari Shows, a railroad carnival, in 1918-1919. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 23 June, 2006 - The two standard references are Gil Robinson's book, "Old Wagon Show Days" (1925) and Richard E. Conover's 1965 volume book "Give 'em a John Robinson." The remnants of the original John Robinson Circus archives are at the Cincinnati Historical Society and can be examined there. The family operated the show from the 1840s through 1911, then sold the property and title to others. If you desire further information, check weekly issues of the trade serials "Billboard" and "New York Clipper." There are also route books, programs and other ephemera in various collections. If your question is more pertinent to specific people, posting their name(s) may produce better results. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 23 June, 2006 - The John Robinson Circus had their winter quarters in Cincinnati, Ohio in a section of town referred to as Terrace Park. It began operations in 1856 and sold out it's title, train and properties except the elephants in 1911 to Jerry Mugivan and Bert Bowers making it a part of the growing American Circus Corporation conglomerate. The train was estimated to still be from the original purchase of Barnum & Bailey's combined show equipment they offered for sale in the early 1880's. The elephants remained part of the Robinson family for years after performing as the Robinson Military elephants. There's no doubt in my mind that the local Cincinnati newspapers covered much about the show over the years that you could research in the library microfilms. An excellent book was written by noted Circus Historian Richard Conover in 1965 entitled "Give'em a John Robinson". You may find a copy by way of your local library. If not try the Circus World Museum in Baraboo, WI. for a library loan of one of their copies. While they do not have an Archivist on staff at the moment, they were recently taking applications and hope to be staffed very soon again. If you need more help, feel free to ask again and I'll see if we can send you in another direction. Bob Cline

Reply: 23 June, 2006 - A good starting point might be the book "Give 'Em a John Robinson" by Richard E. Conover. Library of Congress card #64-8883 Copywrited 1965. The Circus Model Builder, Ed Seiz from Rutherford, NJ used this book and other articles to model all the wagons of the John Robinson Circus in HO scale. They have been featured in the last few issues of the Circus Model Builders magazine "The Little Circus Wagon" Bob Judge, Sec/Treas. John Pugh Ring #96 CMB

Reply: 20 July, 2006 - Would it have been Guy Gosing? It was around that time I remember him being attacked, and the tiger took his calf muscle out. The tiger ended living his life in Peru, In. at Paul Kelly's in the cat barn. Interstate Amusements, kellyk@bellsouth.net

Reply: 22 July, 2006 - Hello - I think you may be referring to Pancho Magana, of the George Matthews Great London Circus. I was a clown with the show that 1976 season and saw it happen. The show was playing Anniston, Alabama. The male lion attacked Pancho during the act. Pancho was unable to get out the cage door, so he tried to climb the cage. The lion reached and bit him high on the thigh, leaving four 4" deep puncture wounds in his thigh and butt. The crew finally got the lion to back off by emptying a fire extinguisher in his face. That same afternoon, the flyer (of the Flying Segreras, but I forget his name) made his first triple somersault of the season. He did not return the rest of that season. The male was (I think) sent to a zoo; the prop boss took over the act and was referred to as "Jungle Jeff". It was a pretty amazing thing to witness. maryrwise@comcast.net

Reply: 31 Mar 2008 - I am Jeff, the person who took over the lion act after Pancho was bitten. The lion Alice also got loose in Birmingham at the fairgrounds that year. The following year I took the act to South America and toured for the next year. I then sold the lions to an Ecuadorian Circus. My name was never Jungle Jeff. I am known as J.R., Wild Child, Warren Jeffries, and many other aliases. To Eric, Rick, Mark, ZZ, Bebop, Sidewall Sid, Little man, and Terry, Yatahey. Jeffrey Wagner

Reply: 22 June, 2006 - I'm not sure if they are related, but I do know that Emmett Kelly, Jr. lives in Tombstone AZ. His daughter, Cherry, lives there also. Heidi Dedrick-Doherty, spammyho@hotmail.com

Reply: 29 June, 2006 - Try contacting the university's alumni relations department. Sometimes they track graduates and will provide current residence information. I just located a 1915 graduate in that manner. You can also try searching on-line directory services such as www.anywho.com. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 24 July 2007 - I believe he is in Peru, In – call Dorthy Kelly - maybe under Paul Kelly’s name still - she said something about Emmetts brother still lives there? Interstate Amusements, kellyk@bellsouth.net

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - Hi Bill, The "clown" you speak of is Mark Karoly, who is actually considered a comedy bareback rider vs. a clown. After many years of performing, he decided to make last year his last. He did make a guest appearance this year for an up coming TV documentary about circus bareback riders. The elephants were also retired after last season. Jim Cole

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - Hi Bill, Several things have happened. Mark, who is my nephew, has retired from show business. He lives just east of Palmetto Florida. He is taking charge of his fathers cattle ranch. The elephants are on his land and Mark is taking care of them at this time. He has a full time groom to look after them. He is enjoying being with his children and works full time running his Dad's ranch. His mother is also there and this is the first time in many years that they are together again. Thank you for asking about Mark and I hope this answers some of your questions. Sincerely, Erny Karoly - Marks Uncle.

Reply: 26 November, 2006 - My family attended the Royal Hanneford Circus this week end in New Orleans, as we have for many years, with the exception of last year following Katrina. We were so disappointed to learn from the Ring Master (after the performance) that Mark Karoly retired. We wish him the very best and want to thank him for the wonderful memories he's given. For us he was the heart and soul of the circus. We will remember him fondly every Friday after Thanksgiving. D. Bakewell

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - More then 60 images (posters and photos) concerning Circus Blumenfeld (E. Blumenfeld Wwe Guhrau or gebr. Blumenfeld jr.) on www.circusmuseum.nl or the english version www.circusmuseum.nl/eng. Herman Voogd, hvoogd@teylersmuseum.nl

Reply: 04 July, 2006 - Hoi Jos, Betreffende de Blumenfelds en je interesse, neem svp even contact met mij op op email nani (at) xs4all.nl Groetjes, Natasha Gerson

Reply: 22 September, 2006 - Please contact Circus und Variete Archiv in Marburg, Germany - they had in 1991-1992 and 1993 magazines which descreib all of circusses Blumenfeld. - go on internet and find the adress - good luck, Jette Goldkette Sørensen, Denmark

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - Keith McLaughlin of Janesville, WI has accomplished a considerable amount of research about Burr Robbins and his circus. He resides in Janesville, WI and if you contact him he will likely be able to assist you. He'll be in the directory. You should also try checking the weekly issues of the trade serial "New York Clipper" for route and other information. Part of the 1885 route, from August 3 to August 19, inclusive, is contained on an 1885 route card reproduced on page 54 of the book "Badger State Showmen," which also includes a chapter on Robbins. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - The 1885 route is not really different form the shows earlier routes, it looks to be a bit limited, although there are only partial routes known for this show. In 1879 the show played Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota, South Dakota, & Illinois. In 1880 - Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio & Michigan. It was a railroad show in 1881 playing - Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, & Minnesota. In 1882 it was not out under the Robbins Title, but at the end of the season Robbins bought back the show from the Myers & Shorb Big United States Circus. In 1883 the show played Wisconsin, Illinois, Iowa, and Indiana. In 1885 the show played Wisconsin, Illinois & Iowa, and only a partial route is known. In 1886 the show played Wisconsin, Michigan, Ohio, Indiana & Illinois. In 1887 Wisconsin,Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota. No 1885 complete route is available nor a list of performers that I know of. You might try the New York Clipper for a list of performers. You might check the Badger State Showman Book to see if routes were included. John Polacsek

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - New York Clipper, May 2, 1885, p. 104. "The following people go with Burr Robbins' New Consolidated Railroad Shows this season: Geo. Holland, Sam McFlynn, Wm. Ashton, Wm. Francis, Jno. S. McMahon, Jno. L. Davenport, Master John Davenport, Master Albert Davenport, Jno. H. Coyle, W. Fred Aymar, A. Marquez, three Brothers De Van, Malville and Malcolm, Rob. A. Hewlette, Geo. Chareste, Prince Satsuma, Lewis Jordan, Thomas Romalo, Wm. Van Vleck, Willie Le Beau, Burt Stowe, Hugh Harrison, Jno. Scott, Geo. W. Lewis, Howard N. Stone, Harry McFlynn, Mose Lovery, W. H. Streeter, Kate Holloway, Ida McFlynn, Mlle. La Vern, Stella Bertram, Minnie Bertram, Prof. Jno. M. Smith, leader, with 16 men. Sideshow - J. C. Shipley, Hattie Shipley, Geo. Connors, Madam Carver, Gen. Carver, Lulu Ritter, Sig. Francis, tattooed man, Maori chief, Albino lady, White Moore, long haired lady, cannibal Fan child, giant skeleton and a colored band of ten pieces. The show opens May 1. Burr Robbins will control all privileges. J. C. Shipley will manage the sideshow and outside privileges and Jno. Scott the inside privileges." - J. Griffin

Reply: 04 July, 2006 - Lilian Salvona was the daughter of William Salvona (Hexham, 1878- Leith, 1962) and Mary Ann 'Polly' Holliday Bates (Glasgow, 1872-Leith 1961) a trapeze artist and later circus proprietor who in the summer ran 'Salvona's Outdoor Circus' circus with winter quarters and a home in Seafield Rd, Leith and also in the winter ran a variety/ musical theater in Iona Street, also in Leith. Her older brothers were William and George, the latter who was killed in a road accident in the late thirties, a much younger one the quite famous Collett 'Buttons' Salvona (see below) She was the cousin of Harry Salvona, famous as 'Koko' the clown, and who married into the Pinder family, and the granddaughter of Ambrose Salvona (1828-1917), Lion Tamer and Circus Proprietor, who is buried in Iverness. Collett Salvona is still alive, I will pass on your query by mail. Natasha Gerson

Reply: 07 July, 2006 - Lillian Salvona was my Grandmother. Her husband was Maurice Duffy, who I am named after. She is survived by 4 sons and 7 Daughters. My father, William spent a lot of time with the circus, travelling with his grandmother, now lives in Blantyre. If I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. Regards, Maurice Duffy (mauriceduffy@aol.com)

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - The notes I have on the 56 show are as follows: they carried 50 elephants, all were shown in the menagerie, but not all were in the performance. There were 14 cages in the menagerie, 10 of the 14 ft "ammo wagons", Hippo den #77, Gorilla cage #97, Giraffe wagon #83. In the back yard performing cats #92 &93 and cage 94 mixed bear act. They carried 28 seat wagons that would hold approximately 8000 spectators. NedCircus@aol.com

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - Hello John, Ringling, according to the 1956 program, had 54 elephants on the show. 20 of them were "babies". Yes, we did have a Side Show. I remember the giant, the leopard girl, hula dancers, Felix my Navajo friend, and many others. I do not know how many people the big top seated, I do know it was several thousand. Hope this helps. Erny Karoly

Reply: 29 June, 2006 - Ring Bros., a motorized circus, appears to have had activity dates of 1953-1957. The owner was Franco Richards. His daughter, Maxine Myers, recently resided in Chiefland, FL. Perhaps she can provide some insights or recollections? You might also check issues of the CFA magazine "White Tops" for mention of Happy Davis, as well as the weekly issues of "Billboard." Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 30 Jul 2008 - A thank you to Fred Dahlinger for responding to my inquiry on message 1379. I have spoken to Maxine Myers who has been a tremendous help and has shared many memories and info. I still can't find Happy Davis from Ring Bros. Circus but I found out about the three elephants they had, Maxine, Suzy and Bonnie who were trained by Sweet Pea. Maxine Myers is living in San Andreas, Calif. the last time I spoke with her. She also shared so much about the circus, her family and the wonderful life the circus world is or was. She loves talking about the circus. Mona Ingold, monaingold@hotmail.com. Zanesville,Ohio

Reply: 20 June, 2006 - Brown & Dyer Shows was a medium-sized [15 to 20 car] railroad carnival. The principals were initially W. O. ["Alex"?] Brown and William A. Dyer (1876-1921), but by 1924 someone named A. J. Dernberger was the proprietor. Joe McKennon's "Pictorial History of the American Carnival" provides dates of operation as 1918-1929. Dyer's 1921 obituary states a start on four cars in 1917. I've never heard of any business records surviving from the show. The wild west operation would have been one of the "back end" shows that populated the midway, along with the mechanical rides, food and drink joints, other concession operations, etc. The genre is partially covered in Al Stencell's book "Seeing is Believing" (ECW Press, 2002). He's currently laboring on a book about back end shows. About the only place that you might find a roster is in the weekly news columns that were printed in the trade publications "Billboard" and "New York Clipper." It's possible that one of the experts on the American carnival may have some thing. They periodically check this query board and I will copy them on this posting.
      "Dakota Max" Sanders had his wild west outfit serving as a back end on Brown & Dyer circa 1920-1924, but not in all years. During a few he retired from the road to run a stable and horse auction in Detroit. It's likely that the man that you seek was actually employed by Sanders and booked with his show onto the Brown & Dyer outfit. Sanders was with the Johnny J. Jones Exposition circa 1915-1919; Brown & Dyer Shows circa 1920-1924 [off the road a few seasons, in Detroit]; Zeidman & Pollie Shows 1925; Dodson's World Fair Shows 1926.
      A 1918 panoramic photograph exists [Circus World Museum library] that shows the performing troupe behind the show front. It was utilized in a biographical and publicity account of the Dakota Max Wild West that was printed in a 1929 issue of the "Circus Magazine," a generic circus and carnival program. Sander's outfit was not covered in Don Russell's book about wild west operations. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 22 June, 2006 - WOW - thanks so much! I'm following up with the leads you gave me as we speak. Here's a little more info - The Medium's name was Theresa Hardy and the guy in the Wild West Show, Daniel Stoke, was a full-blooded Algonquin - I believe they met sometime around 1924 to 1926 as they were married in 1927. That means that I am looking at the time when A. J. Dernberger owned the show. Thanks again, Heidi.

Reply: 29 June, 2006 - You might find a report from the gentleman in question in accounts of RBBB published in issues of "White Tops" during the early 1950s. It's also possible that Joe Bradbury's extended coverage articles about RBBB that were later printed in "White Tops" might have commented on the fan's specially arranged presence. Some senior fans from the area in question may also recall the arrangement. Ask the "White Tops" editor to print your query in the magazine. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 15 June, 2006 - Circus proprietor John F. Robinson Jr. was active as a founder [1867] and member of the board of the U. S. Playing Card Company. Others included principals in the Russell, Morgan & Co. printing firm that evolved from the initial effort. Playing cards were first printed in 1881 and the USPCC title came into existence in 1894. Your cards would presumably date from that time onward. There's a relevant image facing page 26 in Gil Robinson's book "Old Wagon Show Days." You can find the Robinson biographies in the CHS website, in Slout's "Olympians." There should be further information in Cincinnati repositories. The USPCC firm is remains in existence today, with a website www.usplayingcard.com. There's a page of history that provided some of the above data, and more. Some firms retain a corporate archive that contains relevant documentation. They may be able to provide dates of manufacture for the circus deck in your possession. It was surely inspired by the circus ownership affiliation. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 15 June, 2006 - Hi Michele, I believe you are referring to the "Flying Cordonas". They were a flying trapeze act. I know that the Walenda High Wire performers are called "The Flying Wallendas". "Unkle Karl"; (our families goes back to the 1920's) used to laugh over that title. Believe me, the last thing any high wire act wants to do is "fly". I do know that the Cordonas performed at the Black Pool Tower Circus in Blackpool England with my family in 1937. There was Alfredo, he was the "flyer" and his brother Lalo, I believe he was the catcher. I have some old photo of my father, Lalo and Lalo's wife which my father had left me. The Cordonas were well known and respected performers and are still respected by old timers who knew them. Erny Karoly

Reply: 05 July, 2006 - Dear Erny, I would normally never dare to correct you on anything, but it is of course, the Codonas, not Cordonas :) Natasha Gerson

Reply: 23 Feb 2008 - There are many spellings of the name Codona, this is how the Scottish Showmen spell their name Codona and way back in the 1800s they used Cardownie, but here are some versions they used, Cardownie Cadonie Cadoni Condona Cadona and the one used now is Codona. The Flying Codona family tree has been traced back to William Cardownie, after this illegitimate child he married a Mary Carr and that is one of the Scottish branch of the travelling Scottish showmen. William (not married to) (1) Victorine REGNIER. Victorine was born in 1839 in Avallon, France. William and Victorine had the following children: + Eduardo CODONA was born on 21 Sep 1859. He died on 19 Apr 1934. - James McArdle Jnr

Reply: 03 Mar 2008 - Michelle, Well the Cadonas were a flying act, for sure! Alfredo was famous for his triple somersault to the hands of his catcher Lalo. He was grounded in 1933 from a rather reckless fall. They were definitely 'FLYING' for sure. Found a few positive facts about spelling etc. I've seen Alfredo's grave site and here is how He spelled His name. I think in death the spelling might be right. Lillian Leitzel 1892-1931 (Alfredo's spouse, another reckless performer, see details in article cited at end) Alfredo Codona 1893-1937 1st Inscription on their graves: "In everlasting memory of my beloved, Leitzel Codona - Erected by her devoted husband, Alfredo Codona." A monument built to Leitzel, his last request to be buried next to her. That should settle that! Lalo Codona (Catcher)(1895 - 1951), is interred there as well. Also buried are several members of the Codona family. Inglewood (Ca) Park Cemetary, near the race track. My source for this and a rather sensational account of Codona's death can be found at: www.cemetaryguide.com/codonaleitzel.html. There is lots of detail, as is the standard for this webpage, very accurate, in my unhumble opinion. It covers the whole story very well, mentioning a movie short Alfredo made that was on Turner Classic Movies this last month since it was nominated for an Oscar(r). I hope this helps you in your research. Leitzel was a big Ringling Star and their romance was very stormy. They did not perform together, she being a solo act on rigging very like Betty Hutton's in Greatest Show on Earth. He was a star among stars and possibly the best trapese man of his age, comparable to the Great Tito Guyona from the 70's, it is a rarefied air up there. He flew with the best by being the best. Read the article and you'll get a flavor of his whole life and tragic end. R.T.Carr, Stanford CA, rtcarriii@yahoo.com

Reply: 15 June, 2006 - Sells-Floto played San Diego on April 16 & 17, 1915, and also on Sept. 13 & 14, 1931. The local newspapers would have the best coverage, and also check the column in the Billboard after those dates for more information about the date. Ted Bowman Route Collection.

Reply: 16 June, 2006 - There is an excellent movie of the 1931 Sells Floto Circus taken in CA. I believe that it was San Diego but perhaps in another location. Also on this movie was the Al G Barnes circus of similar vintage. If you are interested, I can see if I can find the video and its source. It might have been me but I do not think so. The film appeared to be professionally taken if my recollection is accurate. Robert F Sabia

Reply: 11 June, 2006 - Rick is probably referring to the Hobby-Bandwagon, July 1949 article on the clown, Freddie Freeman, online on this website. - J. Griffin, webmaster

Reply: 11 June, 2006 - In the Bandwagon magazine of November/December 1970, there is a brief season review of the 1951 Campa Bros. Circus. As you probably know, it was an offshoot of the 1950 Dailey Bros. and used a significant amount of equipment from the former show. It in turn morphed into the 1952 Wallace Bros Circus which is covered in the same article, which in turn morphed into the 1953 Diano Bros. Circus. To the best of my recollection, I have some color slides of Campa Bros. It had a nice lot appearance. Best, Robert F Sabia

Reply: 28 August, 2006 - This is a reply to your message board. Cecil Lane asked for Campa Bros. information. At this link: http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,889262,00.html, in the archives of Time Magazine, a short item appeared about the incident of a wreck in 1951 when animals escaped between Mena and Mt. Ida, Arkansas. Here is the item:

In Mena, Ark., while the Campa Bros, circus trumpeted through its one-night stand, nine-year-old Maria Campa, granddaughter of one of the circus owners, was clawed and chewed to death by a young lion considered so tame he was tied to a stake outside his cage. Next day, as the Campa circus trundled along the rain-slicked road toward Mount Ida, two trucks overturned. Nine beasts scampered into Ouachita National Forest. A pursuing posse brought down one of two escaped leopards and recaptured a tame black bear and a rhesus monkey. The other leopard prowled all night before being tracked down by a small but heroic cur named Tony, whose owner, Roiston Fair, shot the leopard, but not before it had killed Tony. Still in the forest: a polar bear, a black bear, three monkeys. I found this information by using Google, but I am an Arkansan and have heard of the incident. Lynn Wasson, lynnwasson@efortsmith.com

Reply: 09 June, 2006 - There is a small one ring show working indoors and under canvas called the Alain Zerbini Circus. I saw it here in Cheraw, SC about a month ago indoors. It used all taped music, had a female ringmaster and a few acts. A couple introduced as a brother and sister group did a nice trampoline and aerial turn however there wasn't any aerial height in this building. There is also the Tarzan Zerbini Circus which is a powerful show in every sense of your imagination. Tarzan is doing some big Shrine dates. He has 6 elephants in his stable plus his daughter Patricia and her Male Asian elephant Luke. The last I heard he was still doing under canvas dates as well as arenas. Bob Cline

Reply: 10 June, 2006 - Bob: Thank You! Best, Craig

Reply: 15 June, 2006 - The typical resources to access for the 1868 event would be: New York City newspapers; "New York Clipper" and other theatrical journals [check Stratman bibliography for possible titles]; references in the Toole-Stott bibliography, "Circus and Allied Arts," including a check for his own cameo biography of Leotard; reviews in other significant international newspapers, such as the "London Times"; diaries, such as George Templeton Strong; George C. D. Odell's "Annals of the New York Stage"; T. Allston Brown's biographical dictionary of the theater [not the theater history]; serials and journals issued at the time of the event, including such things as the "Spirit of the Times" and "The Era." You might also check older, established theater collections for relevant ephemera [Harvard, NYPL, etc.]; worldcat, for miscellaneous publications; and other resources that a good reference librarian might suggest. Steve Gossard, an authority on all matters pertaining to aerial trapeze activity, could also be consulted after you've done the basics. His book, "A Reckless Era of Aerial Performance, the Evolution of Trapeze" (1994) is an excellent resource and includes Leotard coverage. Stuart Thayer's recently issued book, "The Performers, A History of Circus Acts," (2006) also adds context to the topic. You might also search dissertation abstracts and such to determine if any academic has delved into the topic. There are also on-line search capabilities to uncover collections and such that may be pertinent. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 11 June, 2006 - I lived on High Mountain Road in Frankling Lakes, NJ around 20 years ago. Nice place. Regarding the Amusements of America, I believe that this was the title that went to the Vivona Bros. around 1954 and was used for many years by that family. Could be so used today for all that I know. The Vivona Bros. was a NJ organization and grew throughout the 60's to be a leader on the east coast. I think that they accessed the title from Harry Heller in the early 50's. I suspect but do not know that Mr. Heller's was a small local carney playing celebrations and bazaars in northern NJ and NY State. Best, Robert F Sabia

Reply: 20 Jun 2008 - Richard Pagerie - I lived in the Campgaw house in 1938-39. I just returned from a trip there, attempting to find out information. No one I talked to knew about the circus winter quarters. When I lived there, there was an elephant that lived next door. An old one that kids had sent pennies in to save. Want to know more about that. Could hardly find the house, all is so changed. I now live in Eugene, OR. Norma Joyce, normahp@iglide.net

Reply: 08 June, 2006 - I do know of the fire in winter quarters at the Circleville, Ohio fairgrounds. This occurred on March 26, 1950. The fire started from a cigarette thrown into the hay pile near the building housing the three elephants. Keepers hurriedly turned them loose to flee the smoke, while the Fire was dealt with. Two hours later, Jennie was found within 50 feet of the place. Trilby drifted about a quarter mile away into a local farmer’s barnyard. Burma was found about a mile away in a creek enjoying herself. The building was valued at $ 6000.00 that housed all the hay. The concrete and steel structure the elephants were housed in was untouched. A 23 year old from Circleville, Ohio admitted to setting the fire. There was no lose of life involved here. Any other fire, I have not found out about. Bob Cline
      I’ll correct myself before it gets too late. You are correct in that there were two fires at the Greenville fairgrounds. The first one occurred in the cattle barn and sheep area on Feb. 14th, 1954. The circus did not use this area of the fairgrounds and therefore suffered no harm. The fire caused about $20,000 in damages. A second fire broke out on March 3, 1954 in one of the horse barns. This time 10 saddle horses were killed and three of the Mills Bros. Circus trucks were destroyed. There is no reference to whether they were circus horses or not. Both fires were deliberately set according to the local Fire Dept. I apologize for not having the complete details the first time. Bob Cline

Reply: 09 June, 2006 - As a member of the Circus Model Builders, here are some advertisers from our "Little Circus Wagon" magazine. Bob Judge
Circus Creations Unlimited, 1141 Wylde Green Rd., Iowa City, IA52246
The Tinplate Shop, 3730 W. Charter Oak Road, Peoria, IL61615-3249
Classic Kits, P.O. Box 262, Kittrell, NC27344-0262
Hall's Hobbies, 312 South Main Street, Brewer, ME04412
Hope this helps you. Need info on the Circus Model Builders? contact: Mike Butash, E-mail mudshow@msn.com

Reply: 11 June, 2006 - On www.schuco.de you find very nice Krone-models, TCM-Modelle Tunk in Berlin sells circusmodels phone/fax 030-66624795 or Andre Delvo's Circusmodels in Datteln phone 0174-6069954. At Kind Gravur-Technik in Solingen phone 0212-46131 you can even order models of your own choice! johnny.circus@planet.nl

Reply: 11 June, 2006 - My records show that there was a circus in 1938 entitled "Savage Africa". It was owned by the famous circus man Honest Bill Newton who had a number of circuses using a variety of titles during this period. This show was formally known as Moon Bros. that was a truck show owned by Mr. Newton which title was used intermittently from 1925. There is some question whether the title Savage Africa was ever used and if so, was it a derivative of Moon Bros. You might check out the 1939 Newton Bros. which seems to have an involvement. Best, Robert F Sabia

Reply: 08 July, 2006 - Thank you so much for the help. It will really help a lot. Just wanted to say thanks again. Deann

Reply: 04 June, 2006 - Doctor Charles Boas was a college professor of Geography. He married Katherine, had four children, and ran away to join the circus. He was known as “Onions” the clown on Penny Bros. Circus. He eventually worked for Carson & Barnes Circus and Ringling as well before entering the circus business as an owner with Boas Bros. Circus. Boas Bros. became famous as Circus Kirk. I had the great privilege of working for him on Circus Kirk for three seasons. For a better insight into his life’s work and his passing, go to circuskirk.org. It is the official Circus Kirk website. There is a picture of Doc on the lot and his personal biography as well. There is also a link for alumni emails. You will find a couple of his children listed there that you may be able to get in contact with. They all live in Texas now. Bob Cline

Reply: 05 June, 2006 - I recommend you conduct a search on the website: www.Newspaperarchive.com. Use “Charles W Boas” and you should get over 60 responses. Good luck. Regards, Richard Georgian, Email: rgeorgian@comcast.net

Reply: 12 June, 2006 - Hi, Charles W. Boas was my father. He was working as a college geography professor when he decided to join Penny Bros. Circus, 3 months after I was born, in 1961. I have 3 elder siblings, including my brother, who is also named Charles (as is his son!). Dad passed away in November of 2002. Are you of our family? We have never traced our family history very far, but knew that Dad's branch had sprung from Scandanavia/Germany. Please be in touch, we would love to know more of your branch of our (small) family. Liz Boas, Austin, Texas

Reply: 29 June, 2006 - The Forepaugh show was acquired from his descendants by James E. Cooper, James A. Bailey and P. T. Barnum following Adam Forepaugh's early 1890 passing, but it was not acquired by Barnum & Bailey per se. Bailey and W. W. Cole became involved with the Sells Bros. circus in the mid-1890s, but it was not a sellout by a wife, nor was it a direct involvement of Barnum & Bailey. Bailey also bought the interests of the Barnum family to give him sole control of Barnum & Bailey a few years after Barnum's 1891 passing. You may want to re-state your question more specifically. As it's currently configured there is no direct, rational answer. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 28 March, 2007 - In August 1954, Cirque de Jonghe, the first circus to tour the former Belgian Congo (now the Democratic Republic of the Congo or DRC) arrived in Jadotville (now Likasi), the town where I lived. That day, my mother received a message that one of the artists, an acrobat/juggler named Urbain Van San (circus name Santos Urbis), wanted to see her, claiming he was a distant cousin of hers. My mother, who hails from a pseudo-respectable bigoted family, was terrified at the idea and later firmly denied any kinship. But I was elated. The circus stayed for a week during which I didn’t miss a single performance. Santos and I became close friends. I brought him over to our house for dinner several times. He taught me to juggle, walk the tightrope and perform magical tricks. I also befriended all other members of the circus and fell madly in love with beautiful Micheline de Jonghe, the oldest of the circus director’s two daughters. I later wrote a love poem for her. Santos radically changed my life. When the circus left, I started my own, first with some schoolmates, later with a number of amateur artists who, like my father, worked for the mining company. The latter built all the rigs we needed. We performed in various towns of Katanga province until mid 1956 and again in the early 1960s after the Congo’s independence. My mother dreaded I would, as she put it, ‘end up’ as a circus artist. I saw Santos for the last time during the summer months of 1955. Around mid May he was with a circus (forgot the name) performing in Bruges, Belgium. To attract spectators on opening day, he performed a daring stunt, doing a single handstand on the big top’s pinnacle in cold gusty winds, with the Bruges belfry as a backdrop. The photograph was on the front page of a local newspaper. For years I kept a copy but I unfortunately mislaid it. Santos was a wonderful and warm person who deeply influenced my life to this day. I still juggle. Shambuyi

Reply: 24 Dec 2007 - Wendy - I cannot answer your immedicate circus-related question, but I was acquainted with your grandfather and remember Abner. In fact, I had a small, thin brown book about Si and Abner his trick mule. I would like to contact you via email if you will provide it. Carolyn Tusing Surine.

Reply: 29 Jan 2008 - Si Otis was my uncle. He also appearred on a Fifties televivion show called "The Pinky Lee Show" numerous times. He also played at state fairs in the midwest during the Fifties and would stop in to see us in Antioch, Ill as well as in Wisconsin. Don Strang

Reply: 04 Feb 2008 - Si Otis with "Abner" was a feature of The E. K. Fernandez, All American Circus in 1952. The show opened in Tokyo (in April) to huge crowds. It later was presented in Nishiomy (Osaka) before starting a run in Manila (in July 1952 Rizahl Stadium and the Manila Grand Opera House Later some of the acts played Hong Kong. It was a great first tour for an American Circus thanks to E. K. Fernandez, a wonderful showman and a fine human being. DR

Reply: 31 May, 2006 - You are really hoping for a miracle here. Can you give us some help like what the name of the circus was perhaps? There have been some great lion acts over the years. Also the correct terminology would be Lion Trainer. People are able to train animals but we can not Tame the wild out of them. I know its nit picky but educational. I had my own Lions and Tigers for 15 years. The best responses I got from the viewers over the years were the ones that felt like they learned something during their visit. Bob Cline

Reply: 02 June, 2006 - Since you have a time frame and location for the event, if you establish the name of the circus that was present in Houston you can likely identify the lion tamer in question. You can do this by scanning the local newspapers for circus advertisements. They generally stand out amongst other advertising. You may also be able to discern it by scanning issues of the "White Tops," the bi-monthly magazine published by the Circus Fans Association. Routes may also have been carried in the weekly trade publication "Amusement Business" and also in the weekly publication "Circus Report." Once you have the identity of the circus secured, you can then search for rosters of personnel in the same publications, and also the show program. It can all be readily accomplished, it just takes a bit of time and determination. For example, the July-August 1969 issue of "White Tops," page 23, contains a note that RBBB-Blue unit was playing a summer run at the Houston Astrohall, moving to Salt Lake City in early September. Searching for data on it might reveal the identity that you're seeking. Fred Dahlinger

Reply: 02 June, 2006 - Well I have egg on my face, thank you, lol. Mr. Cline, as I have learned recently the circus was the Shrine Circus and it was in Baytown next to Houston Texas during July-August 1969. The real miracle is the little 7 pound package that arrived 9 months later and I am trying to help my friend find her father. She is now 36 years old. Thank you for any help you may be able to educate me upon further. Chris

Reply: 04 June, 2006 - Thank you, Mr. Cline and Mr. Dahlinger. Your suggestions are very helpful and I will take your advice and direction.

Reply: 29 May, 2006 - One or more of the biographies of Burt Lancaster [try Fishgall's "Against Type"] cover his circus affiliations. They included the Kay Bros. Circus and also the WPA Circus. Kay Bros. coverage in "Bandwagon," March-April 1966, pages 22-23, covers Kay Bros. and includes an image of Lancaster from 1941. Kay Bros. was owned by Bill Ketrow. Fred Dahlinger.

Reply: 14 June, 2006 - I knew Consuela quite well. In later years Soggie Reid who owned Bill Lynch Shows after Lynch died let Consuela and another old timer named Artie Perry live in a couple of small cottages that were on the Mt. Uniacke. Nova Scotia winter quarters property. It was about 30 miles north east of Halifax. She was very happy in retirement there and died there a decade or so back. Artie Perry is also dead. He went back to the early 1920's on shows. After Soggie died, the show was sold to John Drummy and John has since sold the show and the winter quarters. I believe the show is now called Maritime Amusements. One of the units is owned by Ed Waters that ran the No. Two unit for both Bill and Soggie for years. Ed would know where a lot of the Lynch people are. Characters like the Boxer, Jimmy Penny, and Karl Greenway have passed on. It was truly one of the last old time carnival companies.
      Before Consuela died she gave me her bull hook and numerous photos of her different shows and animals. She had come into the country with William Schultz's Wild Animal Circus and had learned to work cats, elephants, etc. from him. He was put into a German prisoner of war camp in New Brunswick during the 1940's and when released ran a zoo outside of Quebec City until he died. The elephant he had at the time was given to Ron Elliot of Elliot Shows out of Amherst, N.S. It was on a small animal show they had with the circus and I believe Consuela may have been with it.
      In the 1950's and 1960's she trouped on Bill Lynch Shows with various side shows and animal shows along with Joe Kara. She had owned and trained about every kind of animal you would find around midway and circus animal shows. She told me she was originally a dancer in NY. production shows. She had a dark complection and I assume was Cuban or S. American. At one time she did one hell of a fighting lion act. (there is a photo of her working this act in my book Seeing Is Believing, ECW Press - Toronto.) I'd have to check my notes from my visits to her to tell you more of her career. The last time I saw her she took an old man's hat, soaked it in water and wrapped it tightly around a broom handle and tied it with a couple of strings. Before I left she gave me this cone shape clown hat. Al Stencell

Reply: 01 July, 2006 - Hi Al: Thanks for the information on Consuela Flores. I had wondered if she was still living. Did you also know my brother? His name was Art LeBlanc, but he went by Slim or Frenchy. He took care of the small animals with the Bill Lynch Shows and I think he also worked for King Reid at one time. He was pretty much a loner. I think he took care of the tiny monkeys at one point. I used to go to the circus every summer during the 1950's & 1960's. Consuela had a Cheetah during this time frame. She walked it on a leash. She used to let me pet him. Can't believe I actually did that. Anyway, thanks again for the info. Angie Angerstein, E-mail: angieangerstein@yahoo.com