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Message Archive: Messages 2451 - 2500


2500. Clay face actors, 14 Jul 2008 - Years ago there was some actors that had clay or puddy on their face and would change it in their show. Do you know their stage name? Joe and Tanya Deal, jtdeal@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 21 Jul 2008 - I believe you mean "Mummenschanz". More information on them can be found in Wickapedia. Jerry Jacobson, Jerome-Jacobson@sbcglobal.net

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2499. Circus Konrado, 11 Jul 2008 - I am looking for information about a circus called "Circus Konrado" ( or of spelling of such) which toured through Germany / Czechoslovakia in the 1920's. They were in some way attached to the Hartenberger-Orelly's (the 6 O'Relly's) also of circus background. It was my great Grandfather that was a part of Circus Konrado and anyone with information on this would help my family immensley. Kristina Brown (kristina8@optusnet.com.au). Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 13 Jul 2008 - For circus Konrado look 3 posters 1926 and 1930 www.circusmuseum.nl/eng, H.Best-Otte the Netherlands

    Reply: 14 Jul 2008 - Thank you so much. Kristina

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2498. RBBB Washington DC, 1975-76, 11 Jul 2008 - Hello, I am seeking information on any press articles that were printed about the Ringling Brothers Barnum and Bailey Circus in Washington DC in the spring of 1975 or 76 at the DC Armory. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank You, Richard O'Keefe, (computerlab@npeschool.org). Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 12 Jul 2008 - The easiset thing to do is to go find the microfilmed copies of the newspapers for that time period. Usually they are available at a Library but not always. If you don't live near Washington D.C. have your local library try an interlibrary loan. By having the newspapers at your disposal, you'll have everything that went through for advertising. Radio spots and TV would be different and I'm not sure how to find if those exist anymore or not. Maybe someone else can offer some advice on that angle. Bob Cline

    Reply: 15 Jul 2008 - The Washington Post may be available to you online at home with the use of your library card since most major urban public libraries subscribe to ProQuest's Historical Newspapers searchable database that includes the Washington Post for 1877-1988 (as well as the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, and several others). I don't know what your project is but in 1974, a year earlier than the dates you specified, the Ringling show generated a great deal of press coverage because of the appearance of a large, major rival circus also appearing in Washington at the same time. - Richard Flint, Baltimore

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2497. Clarence and Elizabeth Forinash, 11 Jul 2008 - I am trying to find out information on Clarence and Elizabeth Forinash. They were my mother in law's aunt and uncle. The story was that they were in the circus. They used to dress up in their costumes and show the family their tricks. One of the family members still has the costumes and I have photos of them in their western attire. One family member said they performed with Annie Oakley. Wondering if anyone can verify any of this. Trying to find out the facts and who exactly they performed with and when. Thanks in advance. Barbara Bassett, gbassett@bellsouth.net, Birmingham, AL. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2496. Arthur T Brown's Double M Circus, 11 Jul 2008 - I am wondering if anyone knows anything about The Arthur T Brown's Double M Circus? There is part of the circus train still in Parish NY. AMStar031@aol.com, A. Murray. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 12 Jul 2008 - This was being put together in the late 1980's or early 1990's that I am aware of. Mike Cecare was employed to train the animals as they had three African female elephants named Sheba, Rhodes, and Reba. The show bought the train and many other pieces of equipment but never went out on the road. As far as I know, Mike Cecare still lives there on the farm but I don't know what animals are up there anymore. I would love to see photos of the train if you could email them to me. Photos are not posted on this board. Bob Cline, fivetiger@marlboroelectric.net

    Reply: 30 Jul 2008 - Thank you very much Bob Cline. I knew about the elephant Reba, but didn't know about the other and some of what I found out is that they still have Reba to this day. I do have some pictures of the train and I will be glad to send them you way. Thank you again. April Murray, AMStar031@aol.com

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2495. British Circus WW1 era, 10 Jul 2008 - Hello everyone, I am looking for some help. I have been trawling the libraries for info on the situation as regards Circus during, and leading up to WW1. Can anyone help, even pointing me in the direction of some book I might have missed. Most info I have found is Victorian, post war, or American. It is the turn of the century details I really am looking for. The change to dynamo and electric light etc. Foreigners working in the circus, the attitude to this etc etc. Many thanks, Kevin Low, Glasgow, Scotland, UK, mrkevinlow@btopenworld.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 11 Jul 2008 - Perhaps the most meaningful sources would be period city newspapers, and journals, such as the "World's Fair," which were published during your time of interest. "The Era" would be another, and perhaps a lesser known publication, "The Showman." It's likely that there are also relevant surveys and overviews within the pages of the journal "King Pole." Your librarian may be able to assist you in locating the copies that are closest to you. Some British newspapers, such as the London Times, are now available with key-word search capability in some places. You might also contact Dr. Vanessa Toulmin with the Fairground Archive at Sheffield University, which has circus holdings. Selected members of the Circus Friends Association of Great Britain may also be able to suggest resources.
          With the circus reaching a plateau in the late 19th century, there may be some difficulty in gaining the commentary that you seek. It had gone through tremendous development in the period from the 1840s to 1880s [from static venues to itinerant travel under a tent; family traditions established; street parades; large and lavish production numbers; wild animal presentation; aerial and thrill acts; etc.], but how many substantial advances were made thereafter that would provoke evaluative feedback? There was great advertising attendant to the first application of arc lighting in the US, 1879-1880, but thereafter the application was seldom mentioned as advances often reflected the changes evident in every day life, which were then not "extraordinary" and worthy of public comment. When an art form reaches a status quo, the published commentary stagnates and becomes statements like "the circus was here with clowns and elephants." Fred Dahlinger

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2494. Robert Newsome, 10 Jul 2008 - I am searching for a Robert Newsome who may have worked with circus shows in Alberta Canada in 1915-1916. Any help would be appreciated. Gayle. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2493. Brian LaPalme, 09 Jul 2008 - I am wondering about the whereabouts of Magician/ringmaster Brian LaPalme. I see he is in Moosup, CT this summer. Does anyone know his schedule the rest of the year, where he will be appearing? Chicago or Florida areas especially. Thanks, MisterATA@aol.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2492. Announcement, 08 Jul 2008 - Join Us for the 9th Annual Celebration of (Inter)National Clown Week at Showmen's Rest. This year we remember the 90th anniversary of the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus train accident. Come join us as we pay tribute to those who have passed with our special guest “Forms In Motion Circus”. This event is a loving and festive remembrance of circus artists past, held in the nation’s most well known final resting place for circus artists, remembered especially for the elephant statues and roustabout headstones. This event includes speakers, laying of flowers, circus arts performances, lots of fun stuff for kids including activities and entertainment, prizes, snacks and refreshments, and many many clowns. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and a youthful attitude. Performers (clowns, acrobats, jugglers, etc) are welcome to come in costume and share your talents at the end of the ceremony. This event is open to all. Sunday August 3rd, 1-3pm, free, all ages. Woodlawn Cemetery, 7750 W Cermak Rd, Forest Park IL. East of Des Plaines Ave. Western end of cemetery. Want more info? Check out the official event website: performforthelove.com/showmensrest. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2491. Murium Circus, Minneapolis 1960s, 07 Jul 2008 - I am attempting to find any information about a circus in the Minneapolis, MN area in the early 1960s that was run by a man with the last name of Murium. I'm not certain of the spelling of the name, and whether the word "carnival" might be a more apt description of his enterprise. I am writing a biography of an American poet named James Wright; I believe that he was a good friend of this man's daughter, Marge Murium, whose married name I believe is Simon. Any information at all will be greatly appreciated. Jonathan Blunk, jonathan.blunk@srz.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2490. Barbara Fairchild, Cristiani Bros., 07 Jul 2008 - I am interested in the whereabouts of Barbara Fairchild, her maiden name, and who once was a trick-rider with Christiani Brothers Circus. This was back in the late 1940s and early 1950s. I am finding that history of the Christiani Brothers Circus is very difficult to access. If anyone has information about Barbara Fairchild, or the history of The C.B. Circus, I would appreciated it very much. My email is oceanannieka@yahoo.com. Thank you, annie morgan (nee Marian Parker). Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 09 Jul 2008 - There is actually an abundance of documentation for the Cristiani [no "h"] family and their circuses, but it's not likely to be found on-line or locally. You'll need to contact specialized collections or ask your local librarian for assistance in locating the relevant materials. There is some coverage to be found in local newspapers, but there's more extensive information in specialized materials. There's a book about the Cristianis by an author named Hubler, which you can likely find in second hand outlets. There are many articles about them in the weekly trade journal "Billboard," as well as in the more recent bi-monthly circus journals "Bandwagon" and "White Tops." There are indexes to the latter two journals on this website. A couple extended, illustrated route books were published about Cristiani shows. There are quite a few members of the Cristiani family living today, some recently retired from the business. One of them recently published a book-length memoir that you might find of interest. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 13 Jul 2008 - Many thanks to Mr Fred Dahlinger for his information, I appreciate his response very much. annie morgan

    Reply: 14 Jul 2008 - Hi Annie, The Cristiani family also had King Bros. Circus. Erny Karoly

    Reply: 15 Jul 2008 - Barbara Fairchild performed with the King Bros. Circus in the early 60s, while Bob Snowden was co-owner with Frank McCloskey and Walter Kernan. Henry Edgar

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2489. Dorothy Yerkes, 06 Jul 2008 - Hi, My name is Linda Duprest (Brady) and I and my sister Carolyn are half sisters to Dorothy Yerkes. We lost track of Dorothy several years ago and would like to contact her. Do you have any info on how we can reach either her or her son Tony Pena? I saw mention of her on your site along with Bob (former Husband) Yerkes. They had the Flying Artons, Flying Alexanders, etc. Dorothy's mother was Concha and father James Brady, also our father. We spend some time with Dorothy and Bob Yerkes when younger and have not seen her since early 80's. I did see a picture of her and Tony taken last year in FL. at a funeral on the website Yesterday's Towns. If anyone has info for us please respond. Here is my contact info: Linda Duprest (Maiden name: Linda Brady), lduprest@yahoo.com or lduprest9@msn.com. I live in Phoenix, Az. If anyone can give us contact info for Dorothy we would love to talk to her and I would love to go and visit her. I know she is 80+ and I am now 58. Please let us know if you can help. Thanks so much, Linda Duprest. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2488. Kershaw brothers, 06 Jul 2008 - I came across your great web site and under "Ringling Brothers Route Book, 1890" I found a listing for two of my ancestors. Charles Kershaw and Merrick Kershaw - brothers. They are listed as "Concert Ticket Sellers" under Henry Ringling. And then as "Reserved Seat Ticket Sellers" under Ed Billings. Can you explain further that description? What were concert tickets? It appears that they were with Ringling most of that year. At least. Are there Route Books for other years? Any other sources you can recommend that might provide further information about these individuals? They may have possibly been performers. Merrick Kershaw was with Cody's Wild West show in 1899-1900. After that he was a performer in vaudeville in Chicago for several years. He teamed up with a man named Cloud and they were listed as Irish talkers, singers, etc. I am writing a family history, so any assistance you may be able to provide would be greatly appreciated. Thanks for your help, Len Ray, lrfamilyco@comcast.net, Fort Collins, CO. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 09 Jul 2008 - The "concert" was a presentation in the big top conducted after the main show, for which an additional ticket was necessary. They started out with minstrelsy, later included vaudeville and variety acts and then became Wild West features. It's also known as the "after show." The Kershaw brothers sold tickets for the "concert." Big top customers bought a general admission ticket but could also buy a "reserved seat" ticket that entitled them to better seating, sometimes in position [closer to the ring] and at other times in quality [as with a seat back and foot rest].
          The Ringlings published route books starting in 1890 and continued annually into the early 1900s. The years 1895-1896 were consolidated into one.
          The quickest way to find a variety of references to your ancestors would be to write the Circus World Museum library and to ask the archivist to check the "yellow ticket" file for you. In contains brief abstracts from route books, programs, other forms of advertising, etc. Those entries might lead to a request for payment for relevant photocopies of the pertinent documentation. If there are a large number of references, a visitation might be mandated. If the Kershaws became prominent, you might find an obituary for them in the "Variety" obituaries. You might want to search Chicago newspapers for references.
          An on-line repository like www.newspaperarchive.com offers many possibilities with key word searching. The usual vital statistics data [birth, marriage, divorce, death, children births], city directory entries, census entries, immigration records, passports, obituary information, etc., are basic items to secure for family history. They provide a framework from which further investigations can be launched. If you're unfamiliar with the resources and techniques, visit your local library or historical society, connect with a genealogical group locally or on-line, etc., and they'll be pleased to help get you started. Fred Dahlinger

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2487. Konyots ca 1993, 02 Jul 2008 - I am looking for any photos of the Konyots circa 1993 preferably at the circus friends awards show in Lincoln (circus Harlequin). Why? because I was one of the awards winners of the best comedy act (the Konyots) but left soon after. Gael Rowan, growan@natbp.org.uk. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2486. Alfredo and Aida Yacopi, 02 Jul 2008 - Hello, My name is Kerlly Ramirez and looking for Alfredo and Aida Yacopi. If you have any information, please send me to kerevato@hotmail.com. My Father in law it is searching for his family, his name is Galo Yacopi. I will be very happy to find information about them. Thank you, Kerlly. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 15 Jul 2008 - In Argentina lived the last years of his life Victorio Yacopi, the main flying of the famous troupe, maybe the first one in to achieve four somersaults with the teeterboard. His two son lives in a city near Buenos Aires. Cesar Ortega. fliaortega@netverk.com.ar

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2485. Robert John Sanders, strongman, 02 Jul 2008 - You have a great site. I have a question please. My grandfather, Robert John Sanders, was, so my dad use to tell us, a strong man in a circus by the name of Hickenboken (name could be mis-spelled) in Poland in the 1920's. This is the only link to his past we have as he was an orphan and actually given his surname by the orphanage. Has anyone heard of this circus or have any info on it? I would be grateful for any help. So far I have not been able to turn up anything at all. Thank so much, Trish. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2484. Chinese Funhouse Photos, 30 Jun 2008 - I am looking for someone who may have pictures of the Chinese Funhouse that appeared on the James E. Strates Shows about 1965 and was probably painted by the great Duke Ash, showpainter for the show at that time. If I remember correctly the showfront consisted of three wagons and was painted black, red and had large white Chinese letters on the sides. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Please contact at flamingobooksell@aol.com. Regards, Terry Heininger. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2483. Miss Bernice, trapeze, 28 Jun 2008 - I am looking to find out any information I can on a circus that came to Dedham, Massachusetts back in the 1940's. They returned yearly for 6 or 7 years. There was a trapeze artist "Miss Bernice" that I am trying to locate any information on and what ever happened to her. At one time there was an article written on her in Life Magazine. After that I lost contact with her where abouts. sharon allaire, turkeylake@comcast.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2482. Louie Stern, Polack Bros., 27 Jun 2008 - This is my second e-mail to you concerning my mother's uncle, Louie Stern of Polack Bros circus. I would like to add to my question about the book, Water for Elephants, that any info or websites you know of about Louie's life would be greatly appreciated. I seem to remember that Life Magazine did an article on him in the 50's. I have some memories, an 8x10 glossy picture of him and bits and pieces of information. Whatever you can do to help me gather more memories and stories would be greatly appreciated. As far as the book question, I will try to get in touch with the author at some point. Thanks, Roberta Kay, youtankay@sbcglobal.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 28 Jun 2008 - Dear Roberta, Louis Stern along with his partner Irving J. Polack has, it seems to me, been inexplicably ignored in many if not most circus history books. Since I grew up in Santa Rosa, California where the wonderful Polack Bros. Circus came each year during its heyday seasons in the 1950s, I have a much greater respect for Irving and Polack. I well remember Mr. Stern, always being in the arena and observing. The major article to which you allude was published in The Saturday Evening Post on January 31, 1953, and is titled "Vest Pocket Circus." You should find this at a local library. Although I am not here to pitch my own work, since you seem to be having a hard time obtaining information, my new book Fall of the Big Top: The Vanishing American Circus, explains from my point of view the significant artistic impact that Mr. Stern and Mr. Polack had on the gradual revival in America of the one-ring circus. Virtually all of my biographical information on Louis Stern's personal history, growing up, etc. was derived from the Post story. Good luck in your search. David Lewis Hammarstrom

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2481. Hannafords, 27 Jun 2008 - On 6/22/08 George Hannaford was pictured with elephants on page 1 of The Charlotte (NC) Observer in connection wth the UniverSoul Circus. My question is, what is his relationship to the granddame Hannaford, who in the 1930s performed, in an elegant evening gown, in Hagenback Wallace's center ring and put the horses through their paces. And as I remember Poodles Hannaford, the famous bareback riding clown, also was part of that act at that time although, of course, he was later a perennial favorite. As I recall, the Hannafords were established in English circus history generations before they ever came to the U. S. Do the Hannafords still have a place at or near Lake George, NY? A second non-Hannaford question: What was the name of the Hungarian family performers who appeared in Mills Bros. Circus in 1949-50. They called their small son "Gi-Gi." And a third from that same circus, at the same time: Are any members of the Silverlake Family still performing? (as I recall the actor Arthur Lake, who played Dagwood on the Dagwood & Blondie TV show, also came from that old Silverlake showbiz family)? From: william.ringle@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 09 Jul 2008 - There are two circus men named George Hanneford [not Hannaford] alive today, a father and son, so it's a bit unclear as to which one is the one you seek to identify. In regard to all questions pertaining to the Hannefords, John H. McConnell's comprehensive 1992 book about the family, "A Ring, A Horse and A Clown" will answer most of them. Ask your local librarian to secure it for you via interlibrary loan. It will also enable you to specifically identify the graceful lady in the Hagenbeck-Wallace ring in the 1930s. You'll enjoy reading their story. Fred Dahlinger

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2480. Antonio Loyal Repensky, 26 Jun 2008 - I am interested in finding out about Antonio Loyal Repensky and his dog show. He was part of the Real Palacio Circus and some of his relatives owned the Loyal Repensky Circus. I am Antonio's great grand daughter and I am looking for news clippings, photos or any other type of information that anyone might have. Thank you for your help on this! Sonia Lara, jcloyal@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2479. Peggy MacDonald, 26 Jun 2008 - Just would like for circus fans to know about my aunt, Peggy MacDonald. Peggy is, at the age of 84, fighting cancer. Any circus fan would remember the great elephant act she and her husband, Mac MacDonald had. If any of her fans would like wish her well, e-mail her at swank-davis@hotmail.com. Thanks, Grace Swank-Davis. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 06 Jul 2008 - Hello Peggy, My brother Billo had talked about you and your husband Mac often. He enjoyed the circus and the people he met there as his extended family. I'm hoping you can help me locate the names of the bear trainers between 1979 - 1984. It has been brought to my attention that Billo had fathered a baby girl with the daughter of one of the bear trainers. I figured since Billo spoke of you both highly and so often that you might possibly be able to help me in my quest to find her, for she is my only living relative now. If you have any questions or wish to talk I can be reached at (727) 504-1394. Thank you. Roberta (Billo's Sister)

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2478. Circuses visiting Spartanburg, SC 1900-1910, 24 Jun 2008 - I am interested, for a book I am writing about a dog breed, in the travelling circuses that visited Spartanburg South Carolina. I have seen several postcard photos from the early 1900s of circuses on parade down Palmetto and East Main Streets in Spartanburg. I have some scanned photos of a early 1900s circus parade in a northern city that I would be happy to email you. Do you have any photos of trick circus dogs from the early 1900s? Mike Creel, Lexington, South Carolina. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 25 Jun 2008 - Mike, This will be very time consuming to create a list of all the circuses that played in Spartanburg. I've been researching my hometown in Ohio for a couple years now. There are several sources to develop such knowledge. The most accurate but the slowest will be to read the old newspapers which are usually microfilmed and housed at the Public Library. There is a tab on the upper left hand side of this page marked ROUTES that lists routes of various circuses at various times. That is a great start in a minimal amount of time. You can check with the Historical Society but that probably won't reveal much unless something really newsworthy happened at the time. If you want to travel, you can try the Circus World Museum Library in Baraboo, Wisconsin and check the route books for their dates in Spartanburg. The Ringling Museums in Sarasota, Florida will have a collection of Route Books also. Just to get you started, Ringling Bros. World's Greatest Shows played Spartanburg on October 17, 1908, on October 24, 1912, and again on October 6, 1914. The Barnum & bailey's greatest Show on Earth was in Spartanburg on November 2, 1890, November 3, 1903, October 27, 1909, October 16, 1911, October 14, 1913, and again on October 25, 1915. Beginning in 1919, this was now the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows, Inc. Bob Cline, Cheraw, SC

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2477. Fat ladies Roma & Stella, 24 Jun 2008 - I am searching for information on my husband's side of the family. Two ladies in his family were with the circus in the 30's or 40's, as fat ladies. their names were Roma and Stella. Do you have any records of this? And or photos. I would appreciate any information I can get. Thank you, brenda lanfair, mammiebluebluff@yahoo.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2476. 1960s Deppe Calliope, 23 Jun 2008 - I am a researcher with the University of Saint Thomas studying the development of steam calliopes in the United States. In the 1960s, a man from Baraboo, WI named Wilbur Deppe (also W.W. Deppe) took measurements of the "America" Steam Calliope at the Circus World Museum. From these, we constructed a duplicate set of whistles that were chrome-plated. When Capt. Dennis Trone was building his steamboat Julia Belle Swain in the early 1970s, he was seeking a calliope for the boat, and contacted C. P. "Chappie" Fox, then director of Circus World. Chappie sold him the calliope that Deppe had made and it was installed on the boat, where it exists to this day. Can anyone provide more information on this instrument or the process Deppe went through in producing it? Even a simple confirmation that the above facts are accurate will lend credence to this story and greatly assist my research. Thank you, Jonathan D. Tschiggfrie, Saint Paul, MN tom@tomcawvel.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2475. Perry Circus Family book, 23 Jun 2008 - I would like to advise that my book (Sawdust & Headaches) is now published that traces the Perry Circus Family from when George Perry was sentenced to 7 years transportation at the old Bailey on July 1834 and arrived in Tasmania on the ship Waterloo on March 2nd 1835 was indicted for stealing a handkerchief. robert.perry3@bigpond.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2474. New book, 21 Jun 2008 - Hello all, I wanted to let everyone know that I have a new book coming out early next month called "The Big Tent: The Traveling Circus in Georgia, 1820-1930" from the University of Georgia Press. More information on the book is avaliable here: http://www.amazon.com/Big-Tent-Traveling-Georgia-1820-
1930/dp/0820328928/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1213987946&sr=8-1. I should also say that my work benefited immeasurably from the generosity of Bill Slout, Stuart Thayer, Richard Reynolds, and the late Robert Brisendine. They shared their ideas and sources with me without stint, and I am in their debt. Best and Thanks, Greg Renoff. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2473. La Norma Fox, 21 Jun 2008 - Hej, My Name is Ole Nebel I’m from Denmark. I’m looking for a way to contact La Norma Fox. Actually it’s my mother who is looking, because she is a cousin to La Norma, and they haven’t spoke for many years. I hope you are able to help me. Best regards, Ole Nebe. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2472. RBBB Wagon Disposition, 20 Jun 2008 - As part of my continuing research into the 1954 RBBB show, I was wondering whether any of the Ringling wagons used during the last years of the under-canvas show exist outside of the museums in Sarasota, Baraboo, and Peru? I recall seeing a large number of old RBBB wagons and equipment parked in an open field next to the Astroworld amusement park in Houston, Texas in the mid-‘70s. No doubt the equipment was there as a result of the Hofheinz-Feld purchase of the show. Did any of that equipment survive? Thanks to everyone for their help in my initial request and thanks in advance for your help on this one. Rick Faber, New Braunfels, Texas, rfaber@schlitterbahn.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 21 Jun 2008 - The late Jim Caldwell published a paper titled "Where Have All the Wagons Gone?" in the Jan-Feb 1981 issue of the CMB's "Little Circus Wagon," pages 13-24. It may serve as a starting point to answer your query. It's a fairly extensive listing of all later RBBB wagons and their disposition. Bill Elbirn also filed two reports on RBBB wagons that were published in the CHS "Bandwagon" in the early 1960s. These can be located in the article index on this website. There may also be a few other cameo pieces about wagons that were at Dietch's and other places. The late Allan Hill had a few RBBB wagons, a couple of which were sold to Circus World Museum; the remainder may have been scrapped as there has been no further word of them. The RBBB Gumpertz-era office wagon remains in private hands and a late era cage wagon may be in Ohio, or Indiana. The chassis of the ex-Army half track survived in the Sarasota area and may have gone to a collector of military equipment. Bob Horn knows the story on it. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 05 Jul 2008 - Thank you for the information — it is much appreciated. So did the few wagons that were at Circus World in Orlando wind up in Baraboo? I take it that the equipment stored in Houston in the ‘70s was scrapped? If so, what a shame. Happy Fourth of July! Rick Faber, rfaber@schlitterbahn.com

    Reply: 15 Jul 2008 - One of the Hagenbeck-Wallace baggage wagons from Haines City ended up in Baraboo, as did some of the later metal RBBB wagons. The other HW baggage wagon may have been dismantled, at least there was no lead on any continued existence. Some of the other wagons at the FL attraction appear to have been scrapped. A few may still be in private hands. You might want to check a catalog of the Circus World sale to learn more about what survived. I don't recall off hand if there was ever an extended article covering the disposal of the various vehicles. There were also some replicas fabricated for the site, like the little air calliope that resembled one with the 1938 Robbins Bros. It had no actual circus heritage. A search through back issues of White Tops and Circus Report might provide other insights. Fred Dahlinger

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2471. Circus Amar, 18 Jun 2008 - Hello everybody, I would like to ask for your help regarding a difficult issue. I am writting a book about the history of conjuring in Greece. A very difficult undertaking as no previous bibliography on the issue exists on which a troubled writer can lean on. My question relates to the Circus Amar. I have read in a Greek book about the history of Athens that this circus visited the city in the 1920s and probably also in the 1930s. I know from some research on the internet that the Cirque Amar indeed made a big European tour in 1926. That is most probably when they visited Athens. What I want to ask is if anyone of you knows if they had any magician with them in that tour (of course I am in particular interested about their visit to Athens). If anybody knows anything please don't hesitate to help me. Even general information is welcome. They may for example have used some magician(s) custumarily around the year 1926. His name would be highlly valuable even if he may not have been the actual magician that followed the circus to Athens. Something is better than nothing. Finally I want to mention that I have at least two times asked the circus Amar for help (via email). However I never got an answer. Either they didn't know or they didn't care to help me out. So you are my only hope. Thanks in advance, Ioannis Tsoukalas. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 20 Jun 2008 - For a big European tour AMAR 1926 -1930s look for photos and posters www.circusmuseum.nl/eng. H.Best-Otte the Netherlands

    Reply: 23 Jun 2008 - As far as I know, french cirque AMAR has been only one time in Athens. It was from April 1st to 26 of 1931. They were coming from Beyrouth and after Athens went to Salonique. It was part of a big tour that started in December 1929 and finished two years later around the Maditeranean sea. In 1926, they visited only some foreign countries north of France. Concerning a magician, I don't think they had one in Greece, and even in 1926, no one his mentionned in their program. If you read french, I recommand the book: Les Cirques des Frères Amar,by Dominique Denis (2006). It is very well documented. Hope this help. Regards, François Rozès

    Reply: 23 Jul 2008 - Thanks for the help. I apprreciate it. I have a further question to Francois Rozés. You seem to have access to the programmes of the circus (1926 0r 19319). Could you perhaps share them with me. As I cannot read French the book you recommend is out of reach for me. Ioannis Tsoukalas

    Reply: 24 Jul 2008 - The only magician I known to perform at circus Amar was Chefalo in season 193-54 (but not in Greece). I too strongly suggest the Dominique Denis book: even if you don't read French, you can easily know from there tour dates and program notes. Raffaele De Ritis.

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2470. Smiths - tight rope, clown, 18 Jun 2008 - My Great-grandfather (Rally Walter Smith, Jack B Smith's Father) Estimated DOD is between 1954-1956. Was a tightrope walker with you and my Grandfather (Jack B. Smith DOB 11/11/1921-DOD 12/17/1990) was a clown for you. I was wondering where I could go to find out information on exactly what they did for you and what their performing names were with you. Thank You for any help on this. Billy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2469. Gardener Circus family, 18 Jun 2008 - Please send this to the Gardener Circus family of Canada and tell Gennie that her dance partner from Gatlinburg Tennessee is looking for a dance. Big John, fsfhope@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2468. Elephant Topsy, 17 Jun 2008 - I would be very grateful for any information beyond the NY Times and Brooklyn Eagle news clippings regarding Topsy (or Tops) the elephant, who was electrocuted in Coney Island in 1903. I am particularly interested in her genealogy, how she was acquired by the Forepaugh circus (as the “original baby elephant”) and the circumstances in which she is said to have killed two handlers in Texas prior to killing a man in Brooklyn. I am also interested in the life of his trainer at the time of her electrocution, William “Whitey” Alt. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 18 Jun 2008 - My research indicates several pieces of information that may be of some assistance to you. Hope it helps. Check in Billboard and the New York Clipper for their coverages. Bob Cline

    TOPSY ( 4 Paw )
    Female Asian 1882 to 1885 - Adam Forepaugh
    1886 to 1889 - Leased to Frank A. Robbins Circus
    1896 to 1903 - Adam Forepaugh / Sells Bros. Circus
    1900 - Killed two handlers in Texas
    1902 - Killed Mr. Fielding Mount in New York after he put a lit cigarette in her mouth.
    1902 - May 30th killed Joseph Blount when he shoved a beer stein at her.(have newspaper article)
    Died Jan. 4, 1903 in Coney Island, NY Electrocuted and filmed by Thomas Edison(28 years old )

    Reply: 19 Jun 2008 - Thank you very much. It is some story, isn’t it? Michael Daly

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2467. Dottie, trapeze, 17 Jun 2008 - I’m a volunteer trying to locate a circus performer for a friend who spent much of his life in the circus. His name is Huwey and he’s looking for Dottie - who may have been with Barnum & Bailey. Dottie was on the trapeze. Her career ended when she fell. She may have married another trapeze artist named Eddie Nelson. If you know Dottie, and know where she, and possibly Eddie are please contact me at zulubzeh@aol.com. Billy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2466. Buddy Billings, 17 Jun 2008 - Does anyone have any information about a man named Buddy Billings who was with Mills Bros. Circus in Jefferson Ohio in the 1969-70 timeframe? Rebekka Egbert, rebekkaegbert@yahoo.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 18 Jun 2008 - Mills Bros. Circus closed in 1966. The Mills families still lived in and near Jefferson. Try checking the 1970 census. It would give an address at the time. The try 1980 or 1990 and see where you go. You could also search courthouse records for deeded land if he owned any. That would tell you if the land was sold, when, and to whom. Maybe that will get you going in a direction to help you. Bob Cline

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2465. Circus book, 16 Jun 2008 - I am looking for a circus book that I used to read at my grandfather's house. It was a big thick hardback book. It had lots of pictures and information - everything from the bearded lady to the Siamese twins to the elephant man. The book had all kinds of information about the circus. I sort of remember it as having a yellow cover, but I may be mistaken about that. I spent hours pouring over that book as a child, and I'd love to have a copy for my kids. Does anyone know what this book might be? Thanks so very much, Heidi Grable (North Carolina), mimosagrace@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 17 Jun 2008 - Since I don't know what year(s) that was, I suggest it might have been "Pictorial History of the American Circus" by John and Alice Durant. It has a Yellow dust jacket and, as the title implies, is full of pictures. The publisher was A.S. Barnes of New York. There are numerous other circus books full of pictures but this one sounds like a match. Robert Momyer

    Reply: 20 Jun 2008 - I checked my copy and "The Circus in America" by Fox & Parkinson might also be a possibility. The first edition (1969) was a large horizontal format book, with numerous reproductions of color posters and period B&W photos. The actual cloth binding was bright yellow with the name imprinted in red; the dust jacket was a full-color rendition of a young lady with performing tigers. Apparently it was reprinted around 2001 and copies appear to be easy to find on-line. Lance Burton

    Reply: 20 Jun 2008 - Dear Heidi, The book you're looking for sounds indeed like the one Mr. Momyer describes. I have a copy that I bought on Ebay. I remember the Durants, they traveled with us on the Ringling Show in 1955. They dressed as clowns. They were gathering material for their book. On page 303 on the bottom right you will see our bareback horse, Baby. Erny Karoly Greensboro NC

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2464. Chinese acrobats, 16 Jun 2008 - Looking for photo's of Chinese Acrobats wagons on Strates Carnival Shows in 1965-1966. scarlettatlanta@bellsouth.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 19 Jun 2008 - Try starting with Bob Goldsack's book about the James E. Strates Shows, or communicate directly with Bob, whose contact information is within this website. Carnival historian Fred Heatley might also be able to help, so I'll copy him on this response. Fred Dahlinger

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2463. Circus wagon maker, 16 Jun 2008 - Hello, I would like to know if there was a Whitmarsh who made circus wagons in 1920's. If so, Do you know how or where I could find more information? My name is Beth Van Wieren, I am from Harrison, Arkansas. My email is bethzadok@yahoo.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 19 Jun 2008 - I don't recall a circus wagon builder named Whitmarsh per se. It may be a case of a circus proprietor simply fabricating his own equipment. There's a set of photographs that have knocked around for years associated with the Whitmarsh name, showing the vehicles abandoned outdoors. See prior CHS query 1254. There are listings for a Whitmarsh Bros. Circus and also Whitmarsh & Brownlee Circus. John Polacsek may have done some research on the title or might have some other insights about the photographs. A quick Google search revealed the following item, illustrating a circus vehicle attributed to Whitmarsh in Alger, Montana: http://popartmachine.com/item/pop_art/LOC+1284821. It bears the title of Bohn Bros. Circus and may have originated with the Library of Congress. I believe that there may be an entry or two in the CFA journal "White Tops" about the show, findable through the Draper index at CWM [Circus World Museum]. The Chindahl papers, located there, would also be a good place to check on Whitmarsh. Fred Dahlinger

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2462. Jones, Wagstaff, Canada, 14 Jun 2008 - Does anyone know of a Mr Jones and a Maud Sheils nee Wagstaff she may have become a Jones. Mr Jones was in the Circus back in about 1923 to 1925 in Regina Saskatchewan Canada when it performed there, any information would be much appreciated? Thank You, Laurie Ross, laurie64@shaw.ca. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2461. Julius Häni or other Hänis, 13 Jun 2008 - I am interested in finding out information about either a circus that was owned by a family named Häni or people who were named Häni and were circus performers. I noticed a mention on one of the messages on this board for a gentleman named Julius Häni, so hope someone could provide me more information on this family, their involvement in the circus, the name of the circus they were associated with, and its location in Europe. I am specifically interested in if they were involved with training animals or working with the circus animals. Thank you for any help. Krista Hanni, Monterey, California. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 16 Jun 2008 - There was an article about Julius Hani in KING POLE - the British CFA nagazine in December 2002. He was born in Switzerland in 1918. His family were horse trainers. His cousins are the Enders family. John Morris, john.d.morris@btinternet.com

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2460. Leonard W. Calvin, 13 Jun 2008 - I am looking for information on a Lion Tamer named Leonard W. Calvin who was a Lion Tamer in the 1920’s with Ziedman and Pollie? Elizabeth Milo Coop, Las Vegas, NV, ecoop@interact.ccsd.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 19 Jun 2008 - Zeidmann & Pollie was a railroad carnival so it will not be covered in most circus archives and resources. Bob Goldsack may have composed a summary article and published it in the November 1999 issue of his magazine "Carnival Midway." That might be the first place to check. There's a file of them in the Circus World Museum library that can be consulted and copied. Otherwise, you might be facing an arduous search through many issues of Billboard and New York Clipper, the two show trade magazines. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 08 Jul 2008 - Actually the Zeidman & Pollie show archives does exist as part of the Clarke Historical Library at Central Michigan University. There is some evidence that Zeidman & Pollie had a circus from 1910 to 1927. There is a Pollie Bros. Circus advertisement for a Eblis Grotto sponsored Circus Exposition & Revue at Anderson, Indiana on May 19-24, 1924. John Polacsek

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2459. Bel Geddes Gargantua poster, 10 Jun 2008 - One of the several posters which the Norman Bel Geddes Studios executed in 1941 for the Ringling-Barnum Circus has the title: “Introducing Mr. & Mrs. Gargantua” and shows the two gorillas full-length walking in a stylized jungle setting. I have always been puzzled by the tag line at the bottom “For 80 Years the Greatest Show on Earth”, since the date of 1870 has long been recognized as the first use of the “Greatest Show on Earth” subtitle, and in 1941 that slogan would actually have been 71 years old rather than 80. None of the other Bel Geddes posters from 1941 include the “80 Years…” line, and – in fact – nine years later, in 1950 another poster was executed for Ringling-Barnum featuring two giraffes and a billboard which also included the line “80th Season” printed on the poster. Has there ever been any explanation about the reason for the apparent mistake on the 1941 Gargantua/Bel Geddes piece? Although the line “For 80 Years the Greatest Show on Earth” doesn’t show up on any other posters from 1941, was that language used on any other printed material from the Ringling-Barnum 1941 season? Chris Berry (chris.berrydc@gmail.com). Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 19 Jun 2008 - I cannot explain the errant math, but the trademarked and protected "Greatest Show on Earth" slogan came into use in 1872 and has been in constant use ever since. There was no Barnum circus until 1871; Coup & Castello had their own show in 1870, which became the basis for the 1871 effort. Fred Dahlinger

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2458. Bandwagon issue, French circus, 10 Jun 2008 - I traveled with the Beatty-Cole show (among others) in the early 90's. At some point I was handed a stack of Bandwagon issues to browse. One photo spread has stuck with me and I'd like to track it down. It's Black & White shots of a French Circus on the road. I believe it was post WWII, but I could be wrong. There is one shot in particular of a family carrying water from the river. My memory could be way off, but I'm pretty sure that Jimmy James lent me the mags, so that would be 1991, but again, I could be off. I scanned and searched the archives, and nothing looked right. Any information would be greatly appreciated — I look forward to purchasing the back issue! Thanks very much in advance, I hope to hear from old acquaintances! - mat coes. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 19 Jun 2008 - This may have been an article about the Pinder circus. Try contacting the Circus World Museum library and see if the article is mentioned in the Draper index or perhaps there's a tear sheet in a vertical file. I recall a series of photos that shows a motorized troupe making a mountainous passage, but cannot be certain that's the same series of images that you're recalling. Fred Dahlinger

    Reply: 05 Jul 2008 - Thanks for the info, Fred, I appreciate it. I hope CW is out from under all that water! mat

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2457. Flying Codonas, 09 Jun 2008 - I would like to know when the Flying Codonas were in Singapore during the 1930s. Was Vera already married then and was it to Alfredo? Bill Kirwan, bkirwan@grapevine.com.au. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2456. Pickout Pony act, 09 Jun 2008 - I am curious about the pickout pony feature in circuses circa 1927 on. What exactly was this act? How many years may it still have been performed? Here is what I've found. According to Draper, "William Newton had the original pickout pony on his Honest Bill Show." John Herriott performed the act with a pickout mule in the 1960s. Draper, John Daniel, "Five Generations of Herriotts," Bandwagon, Vol. 39, No. 1 (Jan-Feb), 1995, p. 4. Judy Griffin. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 09 Jul 2008 - In 1900 James W. Goodrich had the trained Pony BILLY who adds, subtracts, divides, multiplies, tells the time of day by any one's watch, and does all examples on the blackboard, which is an act similar to the pick out pony. I also have a pick out pony prop which is a wooden base with and back which has a number on it, and space above it that is open, and a bar across the top so the pony can pick this up in its mouth. There is a common Donaldson poster showing the pick out pony act where the pony is behind a line of props with numbers on them, and it picks the right one with his mouth on cue. John Polacsek

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2455. Miller Bros. 101 Ranch Wild West movie, 08 Jun 2008 - I recently viewed a new DVD called Saved From The Flames. On it was a two-reeler (about 32 minutes long) of a film released in 1912 entitled, HEART OF AN INDIAN. It featured the livestock (including 2 Bison), wagons, people (particularly Native Americans from the show) in the film and gave it some real realism unlike a lot of Hollywood movies, it was also filmed on the 17,000 acres owned by the Miller Brothers in Southern California. My question is what other old silent moving pictures featured Wild West shows in them? R.L. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 10 Jun 2008 - I seem to recall that there were several silent movies using the 101 ranch as a background. I will do some research to see if I can come up with good answers. However the reason why I am responding at this time to your query, there are several excellent black and white films taken by circus fans of the 101 show. They include the 1927 show in Meridan CT taken by Robert Hess's mother and the extensive filming of the 1930 show taken in Hartford, CT by William Judd of New Britain CT. Because the wild west shows used an open air arena during it performance, the photography capturing the acts is excellent and provides a fine sense of the performance was all about. Of course the street parade was also in the open and well presented. Thought you would want to know. Best, Robert F

    Reply: 12 Jun 2008 - Actually I was mistaken, for the movie THE HEART OF AN INDIAN, the producer/directer Thomas H. Ince had leased 17,000 acres at Inceville Santa Ynez Canyon outside Los Angles to film his movies.The cast of Indians were mainly Ogalala Sioux Indians including William Eagle Shirt a full blooded Sioux as one of the main acters. The Miller Brothers owned in the family, thousands of acres in Oklahoma. BTW How much of the original(including people) 101 Ranch Wild West Show was leftover from 1916 for the 101 Ranch version in the 1920's? Rufus Ledbetter, apemonsterman@yahoo.com

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2454. McCaddon's International Circus, 08 Jun 2008 - I am looking for any info on the Joseph Jerry McCaddon's International Circus in France (Europe) and its tour 1905 from March till August. Thank you for your help! michel.domain, michel.domain@wanadoo.fr. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 08 Jun 2008 - John F. Polacsek wrote an article on Joseph Terry MacCaddon's International Circus of 1905 in the Sep-Oct 1982 issue of Bandwagon. Brief information about his article is in the Bandwagon Index, www.circushistory.org/Bandwagon/BandwagonIndex.htm#SEP1982. You can order this back issue of Bandwagon, www.circushistory.org/Bandwagon/BW.htm#BACKISSUES.
          The Harry Ransom Center (University of Texas at Austin) has papers of Joseph T. McCaddon in their W. H. Crain Barnum & Bailey collection www.hrc.utexas.edu/collections/performingarts/holdings/all/descriptions/#crain. Judy Griffin

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2453. Rowe's circus penny, 08 Jun 2008 - Do you know if J. Rowe's Pioneer Circus ever stamped pennys J. Rowe? JamCam802@aol.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

    Reply: 09 Jun 2008 - You might want to contact TAMS (Token and Medal Society), www.tokenandmedal.org, regarding the item you are asking about. Judy Griffin

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2452. Arthur Franklyn Lloyd, 07 Jun 2008 - I am sending you this email in hopes that you can assist me. My very dear friend Peggie Lloyd had a brother named “Arthur Franklyn Lloyd.” Arthur was born in Butte County, California on May 9, 1943. Arthur was abanonded by his mother, Georgia at a boarding house in Orville, California. Georgia divorced Arthur’s father, Lee and remarried a very cruel man. Peggie had to spend several years of her life in foster homes because her stepfather physically and sexually abused her. Arthur’s father, “Lee F. Lloyd” picked up Arthur from California in 1944 and Arthur traveled in the circus with his father who was known as “Curly, the Clown.” Lee “Curly” Lloyd stated that he knew Arthur needed a loving home and school and that he had no idea where Georgia was. So, Lee left Arthur with someone from a church in the fall of 1948 in Logan, Utah which would have made Arthur around 5 years old. Peggie’s mother, Georgia kept telling Peggie and her sister, Nancy that they did not have a brother and that the two sisters only imagined it. Peggie found a photo of Arthur some time in 1948/1949, and confronted her mother who still denied Arthur’s existence until many years later. Arthur did send his father Lee two letters in 1963. We do not know what was said in the letters, but we do know that neither letter provided a last name or return address. The letters were post marked from Colorado Springs, Colorado. This story was on unsolved mysterious in 1993 but Arthur was not found. Peggie was able to meet her father, Lee who she never knew and it was also at that time that Peggie found out about Arthur being dropped off in Logan, Utah in 1948. I have to find Arthur. Peggie is very ill and the last living one. She had thought about Arthur all of her life and she wants so much to tell him how much she loved him and wanted him in her life. Arthur would really benefit from her love. Is there anyone alive who worked with Lee "Curly" Lloyd from 1944-1948 who can help us fill in the holes? Lee passed away in 1991 and all we know is that the letters from Arthur in 1963 was sent to the Clowns of America and then forwarded to Lee. Becky Altringer - CEO, Ariel Investigations, Inc., La Verne, Ca. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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2451. Sangers Circus, tightrope walker, 07 Jun 2008 - I believe my Great grandmother was a tightrope walker with Lord John Sangers Circus in the late nineteenth & early 20th century. Her name was Florence wells but my grandfather was her second husband so she may have had her act under another name. Do you have any information on Tightrope walkers for that circus. Many thaks for any help you can give. Steve Wells. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.

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