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Message Archive: Messages 2951 - 3000
3000. Circus trunk, 13 Jul 2009 - I have a wooden trunk dated 1917 Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus, with carved out animals on each side. It is about 18 '' high and about 18 '' wide. I was wondering what it was used for. Please respond. Thank you, Cindy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2999. GSOE movie, 13 Jul 2009 - Just a question: I recently saw the movie "Greatest Show on Earth" with Charlton Heston. In the scene where Holly is doing "swing-overs", John Ringling North says that he was there the night "Jennie" died. Was there really someone named Jennie who died doing swing-overs? Or was that just a made up story for the movie? I would like to know. Thanks. Gracie in Los Angeles. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2998. Bissell family, 08 Jul 2009 - During the 1920s, my mother lived in an apartment house in Hartford, CT. She often spoke of a circus family that would spend their winters in the same apartment house. Their name was Bissell [sic Spissel] and the father was a clown who had a trick car that fell apart. The mother worked as a "living statue," wherein she powdered her body and (with others) would pose as famous statues. If anyone would have any additional details of this family, I would be most interested in hearing from you. Rick Whelan. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2997. Happy Jack Davis, 08 Jul 2009 - I am seeking information on a Happy Jack Davis, a black man who was a musician for a time with Carson & Barnes Circus (around 1959). Davis was from Feriday, La. Anyone knowing him or anything about him, please contact me - he was a dear friend. LM Moore, pogo@shreve.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2996. Great Magyar troupe, 08 Jul 2009 - My name is László Göndör. I'm a descendant of a world famous circus artists family. My father has mentioned many years ago about his uncle Ferenc Göndör (artist name Edmondo) and his "The Great Magyar troupe" and their turn with springboard. I also know about an other relative who was Miklós (Nicholas) Göndör (artist name Corodini) a magician. I also have discovered that Edmondo's doughter called Juci Göndör has married to Billy Baker who has ran the Baker boys and later the Baker's circus. Juci has changed her name to Judy and with Billy they were performed around the world. They had a son called Tommy Baker who has died some years ago. The reason why I'm writing you, becasue I'm investigating the family and it's history and try to find any photos or info, contact, address etc. what probably can be found. Could you be so kind to help me if this suspection is right? Can you sand me infos etc. to be able to get further on the way? Many thanks and best regards, László Göndör from Budapest, Hungary. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2995. Beverly Harnett, 08 Jul 2009 - In 1948 or 1949, I joined a wonderful lady in the Circus business to eventually launch my life with the Circus at the age of 16 years. I left Detroit , Michigan to join her in Peidmont, Missouri where she had a "cabin in the woods" where she lived on her off time. Her name was Beverly Harnett and her husband was William " Bill " Harnett. She had a Dog Act,Comedy Mule Act Whip Act and Rope Spinning.We played some indoor theater dates around that area that were booked by a man named Tex Burwell. From there we joined the West Bros Circus in the spring in Storm, Lake Iowa were our first day we had a blow-down. She made a great impact on the rest of my life. I used all the skills she taught me to be able to train dogs,ponies,horses.and a Comedy Mule of my own. I have no idea what she did before I met her and only kept up with her through the mail for a few years. I wonder if anyone out there has heard of her? Because of time passed, I don't remember the full name of her comedy mule act but I do remember the mules name "Jitterbug". Betty Olive, olive.betty@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2994. Clown school, 07 Jul 2009 - Hello, I am interested in becoming a clown/entertainer and attending clown school. I am serious in my pursuit and want to first gain as much education on my interest and the path I should take. I am hoping that my message will meet with someone who can educate me on a variety of particulars concerning my interest. As you may understand my choice in pursuing this career is unusual as compared to other aspiring young men. This being the case I am initially finding resources of education on the subject sparse. I want to thank you if you can help me or can suggest a contact for me. I am anxious to make contact and ask questions. I intend to be as little of a imposition as possible. My sincere Thanks for your kind help. Nolan (Please E-Mail back to jjnns@hotmail.com). Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2993. Rita & Dunn, High Wire, 07 Jul 2009 - I have a question. I have been researching Rita & Dunn High Wire Act, they used to be with Golden Rule Shows in the 1930’s, Rita & Dunn, then I believe went on there own, but they were in Gallipolis, Ohio on July 12, 1947. Rita wasn’t feeling well, so she opted not to be in the high wire act, Dunn performed and fell to his death that day. Do you have anything regarding them or a history on them? Just wondering. Amy Wedemeyer. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
The Hillsboro (OH) Press Gazette of July 18, 1947 reported the death of Harry Dunn, 56, a resident of Newark, Ohio, his passing resulting from a fall from a pole on Saturday, July 12. It's not clarified if the pole was a support for their high wire act, or another piece of performing apparatus, but it seems to have been a pole for the wire act. They were working with the Jones shows at Gallipolis at the time of the accident. His wife Rita was in the dressing room and did not seen the incident. He'd been in the business for 25 years; the couple was well known from appearances at fairs, carnivals, amusement parks and other events throughout Ohio. The January 18, 1947 issue of the Newark Advocate reported Mr. and Mrs. Harry M. Dunn as residents of Moull Street in Newark. They were booked for the season of 1947 with Jones Greater Shows, out of Huntington, WV. He was born in Bethesda on October 31, 1895. His full name was given as Harry Martin Dunn. A sister, Mrs. Laura May Gamble of Akron also survived him. These quick references came off 1947 newspaperarchive.com, so you should be able to find others. Given frequent performances, I'd think that it's also possible that you'll eventually find a photograph or two of the act, especially in a newspaper publicizing their coming performance. Velma Lowry contributed a piece about the Dunns to "White Tops," May-June 1984, page 18 and another in July-August 1994, page 40. The couple apparently was one of several that did an impersonation of an elephant on the high wire, in costume [see http://bucklesw.blogspot.com/2009/03/rita-dunn-high-wire-from-bill-strong.html] This sort of presentation originated before 1910. There are illustrated advertisements for such acts in Billboard. Fred Dahlinger
2992. John Bill Ricketts, 07 Jul 2009 - I am seeking information on the ancestors and family of John Bill Ricketts. Robert D. "Danny" Ricketts website: www.rdricketts.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
I have researched extensively the career of John Bill Ricketts here and in England. From all the evidence I have been able to gather, he is a Ricketts of Staffordshire, England. The Rickettses belonged to the landed gentry there, and a part of the family resettled in Jamaica, where they became important landowners. From there, some returned to England (among whom the direct ancestors of John Bill), others went to America, notably in New Jersey. There were also Rickettses of that branch in New York City, notably Mary Ricketts, who married Philip van Cortland, an important New York landowner and political figure in the eighteenth century. The family was a very large one, and the research is not easy when you start from practically nothing. However, you can find a detailed history of the Ricketts family (John Bill's branch) in in the 1852 and 1956 editions of Burke's Dictionary of the Landed Gentry. If you are interested, I can send you the chapter regarding the Ricketts family in a biography of Ricketts I have been writing in my leisure time (it is still unfinished). All the best, Dominique Jando Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2991. Virginia Markham, 06 Jul 2009 - Does anyone know of Virginia Markham who was a trapeze artist for the circus? She is dead now, having died prior to 1957. I am her neice. My Grandmother, Mildren Germaine/Jensen was her mother. For years they used to get free circus tickets due to Virginia's work with the circus back in San Francisco, California. My Grandmother (Virginia's mother) would always talk about Charlie that Virginia was close to which I was told was high up in societal circles with Barnum Bailey circus. Could be he went by the name Charles. I'm not sure. I have a picture of Virginia doing trapeze work and another picture posed in a contortionist position. She used to ride the elephants. That's all I know other than my Grandmother's grief when she found out Virginia had fallen from a 12 story window to her death in her 30's or there abouts. Thank you if any of this rings a bell anyone. I appreciate any information you can supply. Thank you:) Jackie Aylsworth, maiden name, Jackie Markham, daughter of John Markham, which was Virginia Markham's brother. jlaylsw@charter.net is my e-mail address. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2990. Alfred Labbee, 06 Jul 2009 - In the early 1900's, my grandfather Alfred Labbee, was associated in some way with Cole's Circus. My mother Daisy became a tight wire walker with the circus. I have been trying to find information on them. Since all parties involved are now gone there is no one to directly ask, and, unfortunately, my mother did not give us much information, other than she was in the circus in which her father had been invested. How can I find out more? BrokenPencil. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2989. Herbert Clarke, lion tamer, 04 Jul 2009 - Dear all, I thought you might be interested to know that for the first time ever on the internet, the story can now be told of one of the great animal trainers from the grand old days of the circus and the animal shows. Thanks to his spirit of adventure, daring and sheer hard work, "Captain" Herbert Clarke of Reading, Leamore and Brownhills via Cape Town, New York and the capitals of Europe, was able to climb the professional ladder from waggon-boy to top lion-tamer, travelling the world, with a host of adventures along the way. Towards the end of his career, he spent several happy but dangerous and exciting years working with Pat Collins 'The Bloxwich Showman' whose Amusement Empire covered Great Britain in the early 20th century. Tonight, Saturday 4 July 2009 at 8pm BST, Captain Herbert Clarke and his lions will appear, fully illustrated, for the first time on the internet, via the pages of The Bloxidge Tallygraph, the community and local history magazine website for the town of Bloxwich, England. See: www.thebloxidgetallygraph.com It's a tale so amazing I could hardly believe it myself as I was writing it up! Hope you can drop by and enjoy the show :O) Stuart Williams, Edditer, The Bloxidge Tallygraph. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2988. John Sullivan, 03 Jul 2009 - Hi, I would like to make contact with John Sullivan who is obviously very knowledgeable about circus in New Zealand (My home country although I have lived in the U.S. for 30 years) I know messages must be posted to the notice board but if you read this John, please contact me at thaumaturge2@yahoo.com. Thanks, Bernard Reid. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2987. Biographies, 03 Jul 2009 - My mother is 87 years old and she would really like a picture if one exists of her working with the Young Nelsons acrobatic act in 1941 in the Cole Brothers Circus. My dad was fighting in the Philippines and she went to work with the Nelsons, She was named Patty Nelson. She is not in very good health and I would like to help her bring back her memories. Thank you, Mike Lucas, lucas@cox.net. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2986. Silver King, 02 Jul 2009 - For a children's book about the horse named Silver King, trained by John O'Brien, we'd like to know of any pictures or anecdotes related to the horse. We've found very little at the Museum Library at Baraboo. Please reply to sheilawelch@juno.com. Thanks very much. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
In 1897, Silver King was presented by horseman and one-time indoor circus owner Edward Shipp of Petersburg, IL. www.circushistory.org/History/Ringling1897.htm. There is a large collection of Shipp's papers in the CWM library. Whether Silver King had any aggrandized existence before this date should be disclosed by programs, couriers, heralds and other Ringling materials. Their route books don't commence until 1890. Be advised that the well-known and often-reproduced photograph of the animal being carried by twelve prop men appears to be a fake. The picture of the horse was "merged" with the photo of the men and the platform. Such work was often skillfully done long before the digital era and Adobe Photoshop was ever conceived. While it appears that the beast was indeed carried in an aggrandized manner on such a device [mentioned in the 1898 Ringling route book, entry for June 25; www.circushistory.org/History/Ringling1898.htm], it would seem that they forgot to take an actual picture of the feature during the tour. Thus, the need for the created image. You'll find it on page 50 of the 1897 Ringling route book and published elsewhere in various volumes. Whether the animal in the photograph is the actual Silver King or simply another random liberty horse is unknown. Silver King, described as the horse that cake-walked, was part of John O'Brien's 61-horse act in 1899 and again in 1900. A special apparatus was constructed and carried for placement in the ring for the display. He was apparently a horse that trained very readily. Silver King was termed a high school horse in 1904. The story told about Silver King being toured by Al Ringling in Europe, including an appearance at Buckingham Palace, is fraudulent. The part of the story about his name inspiring another horse to be name Silver Queen may be correct. Tom Mix being around the Ringling shows at that time [1910] doesn't appear to be accurate. See www.sideshowworld.com/WW-JN-article1.html. The photograph accompanying the article was taken against the south wall of the Ringlingville Elephant House, but whether it was before or after the addition remains to be determined. I suspect that the stall in the SW corner of the upper portion of the Ringlingville Ring Barn, said to have been occupied by Silver King, is likely a nice story but would be impossible to confirm as such from surviving documentation. It's part of "early lore" that was shared to create interest in what some consider to be merely "barns." If Silver King was owned by the Ringlings, and not one of their trainers, it would have been housed somewhere in that structure and trained in the ring that once occupied the southern half of the building. It was where liberty horse and pony acts were trained, as well as zebras, riding acts [a "mechanic" was once installed therein] and so on. The same or another beast named Silver King was apparently the centerpiece of the 61-horse act on the 1910 Forepaugh-Sells show. It was described as a trick horse ridden by Daniel "Denny" Curtis. http://query.nytimes.com/mem/archive-free/pdf?res= 980DEFD61530E233A2575AC1A9609C946196D6CF There is an extant photograph of the act. There is also a lithograph depicting the act on Forepaugh-Sells. Curtis's wife, Edna Curtis Christiansen, or her heirs, deposited some albums of Ringling show photographs in the CWM library. Two different donations are involved. There may be images of the O'Brien act, or Silver King, in them. I definitely remember a tandem rig in a parade photo. There's also a multiple-part account of the 1910-1911 Forepaugh-Sells circus in past Bandwagon magazines. One 1911 account stated that Silver King was then 26 years old. He was retired from the ring and was only driven in parade by Inez Bell, in a two-horse tandem hitch. A photograph may exist of him in such service. Despite this story, Silver King was back in 1914, the "snow white" horse identified as the favorite mount of British rider Josephine Clark. It is impossible to confirm that the exact same animal had a circus career of 29 years. That would be a long life, as compared to the majority of horses. The age of 26 in 1911 would take the animal back to 1885, which is the second year of the Ringling circus. There are photos taken in Algona, Iowa in 1888, showing Al Ringling training horses. Perhaps the one that became Silver King is among them? A performing horse act was essential to any worthwhile show of the 1880s, but exactly when the Ringlings were able to buy, train and present such an act needs to be ascertained. It might also be worthwhile to point out at Al's wife, Lou, also rode in the ring. The life of most circus animals was quite uneventful, unless you value the daily care lavished upon them, the training invested in them, and the love [meaning sacrifice] incurred by their owners, presenters and care givers. Their "routine" daily existence was interrupted only by accidents, mishaps and other perturbations in the daily rituals of the circus. Perhaps the best way to fill out your story is to learn more about the actual existence of circus liberty and other performing horses, how they were selected, acquired, fed, watered, trained, groomed, etc., while in winter quarters and then on tour with a railroad circus. There is an abundance of such material, in period memoirs, magazine articles, daily newspapers, route books, programs, couriers, etc. There is also very good documentation for the Ringling circus, both period and contemporary. The real world of the circus of 1885-1915 will be as amazing and interesting to contemporary readers as any fictionalized account. It is entirely foreign, and therefore novel, to most youth of today. There was another semi-famous horse named Silver King, owned later by matinee cowboy Fred Thomson. The animal was reportedly found in a Manhattan riding academy. Be advised that some of these places, which generally trained the children of the wealthy to ride, had circus origins or connections. Silver King was also the name of a famous western mine. The name choice may also relate to politics. At the time, the 1890s, a controversy was raging over the gold standard. The Democratic Party wanted to go to a dual standard, including silver as well as gold. The issue is best remembered for William Jennings Bryan's July 9, 1896 "Cross of Gold" speech. It would have been unusual for any of the Ringling brothers to have injected personal politics, or anything that offended any prospective customer, but anything referring to a silver standard might have played well in the hinterlands, while being perceived as a burlesque in the cities. Silver King has also been used as a nickname for the tarpon, a fighting game fish, but the horse came along about a decade before the Ringlings set their first foot into Florida, where the fish thrives. This may all amount to nothing; circus intellectualism usually went no further than to select a name based upon the horse's color. Fred Dahlinger Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2985. Animals, train wreck, 02 Jul 2009 - I am 50 years old and am trying to research a possible train wreck containing deformed or special zoo animals. The wreck may have happened between 1944-1950 somewhere between Virginia through West Virginia and going north. I have no information on this and the question is derived from a story that my Mom has stuck by since she was eight years old. My Mom lived at Flat Top, West Virginia way back in the woods and within two hundred yards of a railroad used to haul coal, lumber and just about anything and going through several states. She was born August 7, 1939 and her story goes like this: “I was about eight years old walking along the railroad track near home, when all of a sudden I heard a loud disturbance in the woods just to the left of me, I was scared so I hid in the bushes just by the railroad track. To my surprise and disbelief out came a white animal resembling a lama or horse with two heads, one on each end of its body and having only one leg in which it was spinning on in order to move through the woods and onto the railroad track. I made a slight sound and the animal went back into the woods crashing into trees and bushes as it went. I ran for home so scared, my mother also had found a snake that she had never seen before in her life, the snake was extremely large in diameter and very long. My Mother said that there had been an accident involving Zoo animals near their home. Is there any information on a train wreck involving deformed or special animals that was part of a carnival or circus somewhere in the mid 1940’s in West Virginia? Thomas Cooper, Beckley, WV Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2984. Walter Peterson, 01 Jul 2009 - We are trying to get information regarding our Grandfather Walter Peterson from Waupaca. He owned a circus and worked for Circus World around 1934 training horses. (Ringling Brothers). Thank You! Robert Peterson. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2983. Illinois 1945-46, 30 June 2009 - I am looking for the name of a circus that might have been touring north central Illinois in 1945 or 1946. Ed. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2982. Model circus, 30 June 2009 - I am looking for some one to possibly help me with an apprasial of a scale size copy of the RBBB 1943 circus. I have multiple digital pictures that I can send along. This has been an on going project for over 3 years for two people. Every tent has been hand cut and sewn to an approximate scale of 1/3. The big top tent is closer to 1/6th scale coming in at 115 feet long. The center poles of the big top are approximately 15' tall for a ceiling height of 14'. The 1943 circus is incomplete in the respect that "clown alley" and the "menegerie tent" have not been completed. The entire circus requires approximately 1 acre of land to set up. It takes 6 people 18 hours to set it all up. All of the wagon's have been hand made and painted to scale as well. The entire circus can be taken down, and transported on all the wagon's that have been made (to scale) and connected to the two Mac semi trucks "also made to scale". I am hopeful that there is an expert in this field, to help me achieve a fairly accurate apprasial on this 3 year labor of love! With many Thanks! Sincerely, Diane. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Finally, as those associated with this model may already be aware - the National Circus Model Builders annual convention opens tomorrow in Peru, IN (runs Sunday thru Wednesday). I will be attending on Tuesday should you be there. My contact info is below. I'm headed there for fun and some business with the Circus Hall of Fame. As for my background. I'm a former member of the Ringling l organization and have been interested in circus model building and collecting since childhood. After much searching and hard work - I purchased a collection back in 2002 and can send pictures (1/2 inch scale). In doing so - connected with many of the folks you are reaching out to within various museums and circus fan organizations. Currently helping a family find placement of a large scale collection within an amusement organization. So, if you could please drop me a line and I'll help in any way I can. John Mulcahy, Jtmulcahy@msn.com Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2981. Cal & Torchy Townsen, 29 June 2009 - I am a newphew of Torchy. I would love to see any information you may be able to direct me to regarding her and Cal. Thank you! Roy. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2980. Charles Bernard, 28 June 2009 - My name is Harold Rogers Irving of Fair Oaks CA. I am Great Grand Nephew of Charles Bernard who spent nearly 50 years of his life in circus activity. For the most part and "Advance Manager" securing locations, permits, feed, water etc. I have several pictures of him on location with a circus.One photo shows him standing with another gent at a ticket window bearing a logo having a large "B" with a smaller "D" in front, and a smaller "C" intertwined with the "B". Can anyone identify this circus? In later years Charlie Bernard was a circus historian and collector/seller of photographs based at Savanah GA. I still have some of his stationary and photo's. I was very young when Charlie died (ca 1935) and as an adult I recognized that he also collected wood block cravings for posters but that those were disposed of somehow when Great Aunt Pearl moved from Savanah to Cincinnati, OH to live with her Sisters. Is there any interest in his stationary or pictures? The History of the Circus Historical Society states that organizing such a historical society was purposed by Charlie Bernard around 1932 in correspondance with Mr Smith. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
It would also be appropriate to state that some identifications supplied with Bernard's historical images can be misleading to the novice. It's not that he intentionally misled anyone, it's that some of his applied captions are "creative" in some ways. Identifying the photographs in your possession ought to be a straight forward matter, once they're seen by a knowing historian. Knowledge of Bernard's career would confirm the identity, likely including the specific year(s). A collection of Bernard's writings was published in 1930, "Bernard's Half Century Circus Reviews and Red Wagon Stories." He was a prolific writer, contributing many circus history columns to "The Billboard" in the 1930s. He typically based his jottings on a courier or herald, or another document, and then augmented it with other news and his own experiences. As a generally reliable body of work, they justify consultation. Bill Slout once contemplated compiling them into a volume, as he did with the writings of Charles Day and Dave Watt. It may be another worthy project, to make them more readily available for consultation. His career and contributions would be worthy of documenting on the CHS website, an excellent example of an early circus employee turned historian, just like John Dingess, Louis E. Cooke and others. He was also one of the few that looked forward to the day when people outside the business would take a serious interest in the lives and lore of the traveling tops. Fred Dahlinger
As I am now 78 years old and sort of clearing out my possessions I will certainly go thru all the old photos and pages of circus items, correspondance etc and gather the results for forwarding to the CHS. May take a few weeks. I do recall several pages out of a Billboard publication containing an article by Charlie. Will send those pages along as well. I have grown children but none are interested in family history and my genealogy efforts. I would be interested in obtaining a copy of the publications you mentioned and will begin an internet search for those items. Thanks again for your reply. Harold "Hal" Irving of Fair Oaks, CA
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2979. Circus horse plaque, 28 June 2009 - I recently purchased (at auction) a curious piece of art related to the circus. It is a large, wooden framed (behind glass) gilt/ormolu brass or bronze? plaque of a circus horse engraved 'Black Eagle'. It is really quite old, stunning and unusual (which is why I bought it). My question is were these plaques popular in the 19th century? I have since learnt all about Black Eagle the circus horse (although from the dates I have read he must have lived 50 years! or there were several 'Black Eagles' (which is probably the case). But why were these plaques made? Has anybody seen them before. I think this one came from America, as I bought it in a lot which had other USA related items in it. Any suggestions would be helpful. Kind regards Paula Harber. P.S. My direct email is: daubdolly@aol.com. Paula Harber, Suffolk, England. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2978. Joan Cowen, iron jaw, 28 June 2009 - I am looking for information, pictures, or posters in reference to an "Iron Jaw" performer, by the name of Joan Cowen. It's my understanding she was a part of a Barnum & Bailey show in or around the late 1940s. She was from Oklahoma and left the circus to join the Military. Anyone have any ideas of how to find this information? Any information can be sent to sarahsherrill@hotmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2977. Sidney Rink, 28 June 2009 - Sidney Rink was my dad's uncle. I am compiling an updated family history for the family and would like to get as much data on Uncle Sidney as possible. Do you have additional suggestions? Thank you. Elise Thompson. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2976. Mario Verdone, 27 June 2009 - Chers amis, Mario Verdone, agée de 91 ans, viens de disparaitre cet aprés-midi ŕ Rome. Passionné du cirque, ami de Grock et Chaplin, Mario fut un des fondateurs et le dčrnier survivant de l'Union des Historiens du Cirque. Mario fut la source majeur de Federico Fellini pour "I Clowns", en lui presentant Tristan Rémy et le monde des clowns parisiens. Il avait introduit les études de cinema dans le monde universitaire italien, et était le plus grand historien du futurisme. Passionné aussi de l'illusionnisme et du music-hall, c'est grace a lui que les films de Fregoli on eté retrouvé et restaurčes. Aprés la disparition dans les derniers jours de Giancarlo Pretini et Stuart Thayer, ce son des jours tristes pour le cirque. Raffaele Attempted translation: Dear friends, Mario Verdone, aged 91 years, just remove this afternoon in Rome. Passionné circus friend Grock and Chaplin, Mario was a founder and the last survivor of the Union of Historians of Cirque. Mario was the major source of Federico Fellini for "I Clowns", by Tristan Rémy and presenting the world of clowns Paris. He introduced the study of world cinema in the Italian university and was the greatest historian of the future. Passionné also illusionism and the music hall, this is where Fregoli films have been found and restored. After the demise in the final days of Giancarlo Pretini and Stuart Thayer, it's sad day for the circus. Raffaele. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2975. George Wombwell, 26 June 2009 - Dear all, I am starting to research the life of George Wombwell, the famous British menagerie owner, and his life between 1777-1850. I am also, but less, interested in the Bostock and Wombwell menagerie that succeeded his exclusive menagerie. I have a few books, including by E Bostock, George Sanger, Jack Frost and Sir Garrard Tyrwhitt-Drake, but I would be very grateful for any pointers for other sources at all on George Wombwell; public or private archives, books, articles, correspondence, visuals etc. Thank you very much to anyone who might be able to help me! All best, Clare. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
If you're not familiar with where and how to locate vital statistics and other primary resource materials, ask your local librarian, consult some on-line help guides, etc. You'll find these folks want to help make your work productive and successful, and they can often accelerate your work efficiency with a few quick suggestions. You might also find a local genealogical group that can offer constructive advice and encouragement. After you've established a document and period-based chronicle, you can then consult the latter day volumes; by then you'll be equipped to evaluate their accuracy and accept parts that are accurate or reject them in all or part as spurious, red herrings or outright fiction. Always document your resources so that you can re-trace your path and enable others to do so in the future. Judging competing accounts of the same events is part of the historian's responsibility. Based on the same type of research, Thayer chronicled the traveling menageries in the United States, in a two-part article published in "Bandwagon." They're in the Nov-Dec 1991 and Jan-Feb 1992 issues. There's probably not a strong parallel to Wombwell's actions, but they will provide a contrast for comparison since both commenced circa 1810 or so, with much the same origins [beasts brought from abroad by enterprising seamen]. Another article in the Sept-Oct 1974 issue about early menageries may also be advisable to check. British circus rider Andrew Ducrow was a contemporary to Wombwell. Though it's now just a bit vintage, the great Ducrow biography by Arthur H. Saxon might give you some insights into how to produce a first-rate biography that will stand the test of time. His mastery of resources, insightful analysis and erudition set high standards are worthy of emulation. The National Fairground Archive at Sheffield University may have some significant Wombwell holdings. You might consult with the director, Dr. Vanessa Toulmin, for some guidance on conducting an effective search that will provide a valuable summary and interpretation of Wombwell's life and contributions. A considerable number of broadsides survive from the Wombwell operations, along with programs and other ephemera. To locate them will require contacting many institutions in Europe and the US, yet they will re-pay you with specific documentation of the presentations that were made by Wombwell. You are perhaps fortunate in that the British publication "The Era," which commenced operation in 1838, has been digitized and is now available on-line in the UK with key word searching. I haven't learned how early it covered traveling menageries, but it's worth a look. The "Illustrated London News" started in 1842. Toole-Stott's five volume bibliography "Circus and Allied Arts" may provide some leads. Good luck with the work! Fred Dahlinger
2974. Circus wagon carvings, 26 June 2009 - Researching carvings off of late 19th, early 20th century circus wagons or exhibits. Any help would be appreciated. Warmest regards from Toronto, Canada. Approximately a year ago I purchased a number of carvings I believe are from wagons, or rides. The story I was told was that a contractor in Peru, Indiana was tearing down a barn and inside were two rotting, destroyed circus wagons. The circus carts were in such bad shape, the contractor cut off all the decorative pieces of the carts, which consist of mermaids, peacocks and in one case, devils, devil heads and devil-related carvings which would have been painted beautiful colors. I was always wondering if one was from some type of “Diablo/Devil” exhibit. Some of the devil heads appear to be seats. I appreciate any help that anyone can offer on trying to help identify these carvings. They are done very well. I appreciate any help that anyone could offer. Photos can be viewed at: www.jamiesontribalart.com/carnival/. Sincerely, William Jamieson, Research and Development, Niagara Falls Museum Collections. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2973. Fred Jones Reid, 26 June 2009 - I am looking for any information, pictures, etc. on Fred Jones Reid who traveled with the Sells-Floto Circus in 1929 as a human cannonball in the Cliff Aeros act. Any information would be wonderful. Thanks, Emily. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
It's possible that payroll and other ledgers from the 1929 Sells-Floto circus might be in the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey business records in the Circus World Museum library. Contact Erin Foley, the archivist, for information about content and access. If Mr. Reid was employed directly by the cannon act provider, his name may not appear in Sells-Floto documentation. The weekly trade journal "Billboard" and the bi-monthly issues of "White Tops" for 1929 may also provide additional information. Checking daily newspapers along the Sells-Floto route for mention of Mr. Reid is another possibility, but it would seem that his career as a cannonball ended in Chicago. He may not have appeared in the act under his own name. One of the Aeros cannons is preserved at Circus World Museum. Fred Dahlinger
2972. Cole Bros. 1960-70s, 26 June 2009 - In the late 1960s and 1970s my family traveled with the Cole Brothers circus. I was looking to purchase any posters or any other items from this era. My father is John Munroe, and he was the fire eater and knife thrower. My mother is Marilyn Munroe (her real name) and she performed the blade box and stood at the knife board. If anyone has any information where I can find any items from this circus, could you please email me at gldncoin@att.net. Thank You, Samantha Munroe-Lyle. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2971. John Fox, 26 June 2009 - I am very unsure if you, or anyone for that matter, can help me in my quest. My partner is mixed race but has a huge blank in his life, as does his mother and siblings. There is very little information as his Grandmother passed away several years ago and never spoke of her affair! All we know is that she allegedlly had an affair with a man named John/Jon? Fox in the 50's, he was thought to be working with a Jamaican Circus at Wormwood Scrubs. Sadly my partner's mother was banished to live with her Uncle so never got to ask her mum who her dad was! Any help or guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance, Faye Meadows. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2970. Carnival name, 25 June 2009 - Hello could you please tell me the name nickname of a travelling carnival starting with the initial F. Thanks, Canteen. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2969. Tent Color, 25 June 2009 - I am working on a project that among others things concerns circus big tops in the 1920s and 1930s. I have a secondary source that indicates that some of the canvas big tops of the period were colored blue. I’ve gone through a number of photos from that time, but haven’t seen anything other than white and khaki tops. I have seen striped side walls in tent company catalogues, but from an earlier era and even here I haven’t seen one in actual use. I have a number of contracts between tent fabricators and shows, and none of them specific color, which I take to mean that the subject tents were always white or khaki. My father, who is good on stuff like this, thinks the Cole Bros. Circus in the 1940s was one of the first to have a blue big top, and that Ringling didn’t go with a blue top until the late 1940s or early 1950s. Being aware that lack of evidence is not necessarily evidence of lack (although it often is), I would be most appreciative of any information anyone out there is the ether might have regarding non-white and non-khaki tents before 1940. Thanks in advance to all you pavilion savants. Fred Pfening III Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2968. Rolla Rossiter, slack wire, 22 June 2009 - Hi, Does any body have any information whatsoever on a slack wire performer by the name of Rolla Rossiter. I believe he was born in New York in 1807. He toured with circuses in the U.S. and arrived in Australia in Dec. 1854. Left for New Zealand in April 1855 and worked around New Zealand until Mar 1856 when I believe he returned to California. He was also a magician and combined both talents in his show and worked mainly theaters but occasionally joined circuses. Any information whatsoever would be helpful. Bernard Reid, thaumaturge2@yahoo.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2967. Silvia Ilona Traber, 20 June 2009 - Hello, my name is Elvis Traber. My mother is Silvia Ilona Traber but born as daughter from Willy Holzmüller he is although nowen from Circus Holzmüller and circus europa. I would like to know if you have some information from my grandfather or if you have some artikels you wrothe about him. Please give me answer on my e-mail stefan_schmidt97@hotmail.com. Im looking fore her family pictures so she can have tham back. Thanks already and sorry if my English isent so well. Elvis Traber. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2966. John J. Murray, 17 June 2009 - Hello anyone and everyone. I am in search of information about my great grandparents. My Aunt is my only living relative left who can tell me what little information she knows about these wonderful entertainers of the past. My great grandfather was John J. Murray and my great grandmother was Florence J. Murray. I have a little information about their circus life and I know they actually met in the circus and my grandmother Margaret Murray even performed as a child. I have this info: MURRAY, JOHN J. Acrobat, Crane & Co., 1850; Adam Forepaugh’s, 1874; clown, Beckett’s Railroad Circus, 1887; Hunting’s, 1889 (with wife Florence), 1893-95. And this: John J. in route books for the 1890, 1893-1895 Hunting's Circus, and his name in an 1896 program for the show (he is listed as a clown, and as the manager of the concert and after show). Florence is also listed in those route books and program, usually as a concert performer. There is an advertising herald for 1896 where she is listed as a chariot driver. A separate index has John J. Murray on Priest's Pavilion show in 1886 as a singing and talking clown; has John and Florence on Stowe & Long's show for 1889 (as of April), then lists them with Hunting's Circus in July of that year, and again in 1890. I have no actual official artifacts like authentic programs or anything. If anyone out their has any information for me on how to acquire some type of pamphlets I would truly appreciate any information. What I am really looking for is a copy of Billboard magazine from 1906 that my Great grandfather was on the cover. Please email me if you have anyinformation at goligal@yahoo.com Thank you for your time. Kelly. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2965. Lou Jacobs car, 16 June 2009 - I want to know if Lou Jacobs little car is still around. I'm looking to build something like it. If anyone knows where please contact me. Anthony, anthony2425@yahoo.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
CHS Convention, July 9-12, 2009 Information 2964. G G Grady's, 1871, 15 June 2009 - Greetings, I am a collector of old paper money and in a recent acquisition was included 2 pieces of what I would describe as advertising scrip in the amount of 10 cents for G G Grady's Unprecented American Circus for 1871, and stamped on the front for I'm guessing a specific show in Cadiz Ohio Wednesday August 9, 1871. Just curious if you might have other relevant information about Grady, or this particular show. I googled the name and found out he was from Kenton Ohio I believe, but otherwise just thought it was interesting and unusual paper which I do run across from time to time. Thanks very much. Pete Simpson. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2963. Sideshow Truck Panel, 15 June 2009 - I came across a panel cut from the side of a circus truck that depicts a risqué' sideshow act performed by a topless snake dancer. My best guess is that it dates from the 1920's to the 1940's. It is poster board on wood, partially hand painted and partially airbrushed. The name is difficult to read, but it is either "Tonia", "Lonia" or "Sonia", "in her Sensational Dance of the Serpent". I have attached a link to a picture of the panel below. If you have any info about this act, the performer, or approximate date of sign, I would love to know. Thanks. Matt in San Diego. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v420/ryder92111/serpentdancer.jpg. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2962. Routes, Europe 1920-40, 13 June 2009 - I have a query about the routes for any circus that travelled in Europe in the 1920-1940 period. Considering how cold European winters are/were with the ice and snow, did they still travel in the winter time or did they stop travelling and perform undercover somewhere? Did European circuses tour to many countries, for instance did they start in France and then move on to Germany and Belgium etc? I notice this site is predominantly American history, does anyone know of a similar website for European circuses? I would appreciate any help. Thanks, Caroline. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
I'm sure some shows early in the early 20th. century tried to some how heat the tent and work during the winter. I don't know when some circuses started using portable wooden round buildings covered in canvas for winter dates but they were in use prior to the second world war. Look for photos of Circus Strassburger and you should see photos of their portable wood circus building. Al Stencell
2961a. Biron family, Wild West, 12 June 2009 - Hello, I am researching some history on Biron family that was in Wild West Shows. Dan H. Biron and wife Pearl are listed in the name index of the "Bandwagon" Vol 29 number 4 (July-August-1985). Just wondered if anyone might have a copy and could tell me if it mentions where they were from. Thanks. Vi Biron Dussault. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2961. Mr. McPhee, 11 June 2009 - I have a Great Aunt by the name of Christina (Hewer) McPhee 1897-1940's from Onterio, Canada. It's said, that she married a gentalman by the name of Mr McPhee. From what I have heard, he was either the owner or manager of a circus somewhere in the New York State area. We are interested to know anything related to Mr McPhee and his relationship to the Circus History. Thanks you in advance for your time. Perry Richards, Hood River, OR. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2960. Europe, WW II, 11 June 2009 - I am a Houston, Texas free lance writer currently working on a novel titled, “Conspiracy of Clowns.” The setting is Nazi occupied Pragu, Czechoslovakia during World WAR II and a traveling circus. I am desperately seeking a book or any information available about traveling cicuses in Europe during WW II for historical research. Although the book is fiction I would like the details to be as historically accurate as possible. Although I am a humorous by passion and preference, this is basically a serious novel depicting the courage of three circus clowns and their efforts to seek justice after the execution of a fellow clown by the Gestapo. Any leads or info would be greatly appreciated. Ray Fitzgerald, fitrl@comcast.net, or my web site, www.shamrockandblarney.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
In the early 1990's I rented seats and other circus equipment to Paramount for a circus movie shot in Toronto. The story was based on a true tale about some Jewish performers being hide on Circus Althoff from the Nazis. I don't know the finished title of the movie but it starred Daryll (sp) Hanna. In 2006 when I was visiting Circus Krone in Germany I was introduced to a lady whose family had the concessions on the show. The story was about her father. At the time he was still alive but has since died. The big circus during the communist block era in Czech was called - Circus HUMBERTO. I saw it in Prague once and latter in East Germany at Karl Max Stadt on the Oder. It was a big heavy show on about seventy wagons and a dozen trucks. It had just come out of Russia through Poland into E. Germany. The workmen on the show had picked up numerous stray dogs in Russia and had re-named them after Russia leaders past and present. A huge great dane named 'Krushchev' (sp) followed me around the lot all day. They had started out with a half dozen empty wagons which they were quickly filling with stolen bikes, auto and truck tires and parts, and anything else they could pick up going through towns in the dead of night. Under the living wagons were what we call -'possum bellies' - small boxes used to store stakes, chain, rope, tools, etc. They called them 'belly boxes'. On Humberto they were full of chickens, hens, small pigs, what ever they picked up from passing farms. The allies - particularly the Americans were slow getting into Berlin as WW11 ended and so the Russians ended up with most of it. There are now several good books out on this mistake and the resulting Berlin Wall. However, the circus business thrived there. The government set-up an agency to route and manage the shows and the state took over the large shows ending up with three big ones -Busch, Aeros, and Berolina. For a period of time the smaller family shows stayed, or left and came back or didn't come back. When I was in there in the early eighties there were three family shows - Hein, Probst, and Rolandos which was called a Hippodrome as it was more of a tented stage show than circus. Now it is a very nice circus that still tours in the former East German area. Circus Probst is a medium size show still calling itself the Number 1 East German Circus. Berolina is now a medium size family show while Busch and Aeros along with the central circus agency have disappeared after the wall fell. The East German Circus agency was a clever operation. If the big circuses kept going back to the same cities year after year, the populace would have grown tired of them. So each season they sent two of their shows out to other communist countries and took in two others from Russia, Romania, Hungary, Czech, Poland, etc. The agency was also at the fore front of training acts and perfecting new circus equipment. They had tents with no quarter poles in them using a system of suspension cables on the outside of the tent. This allowed for a clear view of the circus ring. Al Stencell CHS Convention, July 9-12, 2009 Information 2959. Mable Stark, 10 June 2009 - For anyone interested in Mable Stark the cat lady she was born in Cobb Ky in Caldwell county and the house she was born in may still be there. The mental institution western state hosp that she escaped from is still in existance. Gott Roxx. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2958. Cancowsci, juggler, 10 June 2009 - I`d like to ask you about circus poster of juggler Cancowsci`(enclosed). This poster was made by Adolph Freidlander in 1900. Cancowscis (real name Jakub Kankowski) was a polish juggler. He was born (1870) and died (1963) in small town Brok at the Bug River (East Poland). This poster (probably) was printed in catalogue of Circus Poster Exhibition in Berlin in 1978. Our Brok Centre Fundation would like to remind this intresting person and make a small exhibition about him in August 2009 in Brok. I would be grateful if you could send me a piece informatoin about poster of Cancowsci and catalogue of circus poster exhibition in Berlin in 1978. With kind regards, Tomasz Porowski, Brok Centre Foundation, www.brokcentre.art.pl. [this message board does not include the display of graphic images - J. Griffin, webmaster] Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2957. Con T Kennedy circus, 09 June 2009 - I am the Sexton at Riverdale Cemetery. We have a Circus Monument erected in memory of the Con T Kennedy employees killed during the Columbus train wreck. I am looking for information on the Con T Kennedy Circus. Can you give me any information? Thanks, Deborah Abraham. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Fred Kempf and his wife were two of the 1915 Kennedy wreck victims. His brother heard their horrifying screams during the fire that followed the wreck, but rescue was impossible. The Kempfs were in their straight-bed motor truck, which housed their miniature city attraction. It was on a flat car immediately behind the locomotive, an undesirable spot because of all the coal smoke and cinders discharged from the stack. They'd refused to pay a "fee" to the show trainmaster to gain a better placement on the flats. As a result, during the pile-up that ensued they were right in the middle of the debris pile. In a quirk of fate, the Kempfs' baby daughter, Hazel Helen Kempf [Mack was her married name], was miraculously tossed from the Kempf vehicle, clear of the carnage, and survived without injury. I visited and spoke with her in the 1980s, about the same time that another baby had miraculously survived a plane crash in which her family was also lost. Her uncle had shared with her the story of her parents passing. She has since passed on. Fred Dahlinger [train wreck date corrected June 20]
2956. Gold rush era circus, 09 June 2009 - Do you have any information, or know where I could look to find out about gold rush era traveling circus that came to N. Bloomfield Ca., or Humbug as it was also called. It is now Malakoff Diggins State Park, Ca. foxtales3. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 2955. Turtles, alligators, 09 June 2009 - Did vendors sell baby turtles and alligators at the circus 1956? Suzan. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2954. West Bros., 08 June 2009 - When I was 14/15 years old, I worked for Romig & Rooney, while they worked dates at country clubs in the Detroit,Mi area. They were retired performers and had a tightwire act, performing dogs and a trained horse. Has anyone heard of them? Also while I was married to Dick Lunsford, he and I worked for a Zallee Bros Circus. Paul Zallee owner. Paul used to play music on bottles filled with water. He was a very different person who was always painting something on the equiptment and humming all the time. We also played indoor dates for him in the winter. I think he based in Iowa. I am surprised at all the memories the Circus History page has brought back. Also I met a wonderful lady named Beverly Harnett at the State Fair in Detroit where I assisted her with her acts( Comedy Mule, Dog Act, Rope Spinning and Whip Act.) While I was there Tex Ritter was Showing in the Rodeo Arena and the trainer of the white horse he rode into the arena allowed me to lead the horse to the arena gate and hold him for Tex Ritter to get on and make his grand entry. Ritter would dismount and the horse came back to me at the gate so I could return him to the barn. What a thrill that was for me as I had just turned 16 years old. My parents allowed me to join Beverly Harnett in Missouri and travel and learn from her. We ended up in the spring on the first real Circus I was on. The West Bros. Circus and as I remember we had a blowdown the first day. The year was 1948/49 I think and thats where I met the Lunsford family. Would like to know more about the West Bros.? Does anyone recall Beverly and Bill Harnett? I lost touch years ago when I stopped getting Christmas cards. Her daughter lived in California. Betty Lunsford/Olive;Osteen,Fl. (olive.betty@gmail.com). Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Shortly before he died, I obtained his big, floppy shoes plus the musical bottles and a few other smaller items. One of those items is an Indian club. He had a routine where he would juggle 3 or 4 clubs and bounce them on the floor in rhythm to "Yankee Doodle Dandy". Paul is buried here in Pekin and there is a likeness of him in his clown garb etched on his monument. We have a small museum in town and I plan to donate Paul's articles to the museum when they acquire more room. We have a non-denominational church here called the Pekin Union Mission Society. It was started in the earl 1900's to minister to the needs of the poorer folks that lived along the river. The Mission always had an orchestra and when I joined it some 30 or 40 years ago, Paul was the drummer and he did so until he died. Paul had written a small auto-biography, of which I have a copy but can't seem to locate. I am told his grandfather came down from LaSalle, Illinois, passing through Pekin on a steamboat enroute to Texas. While here, the boat got in a race with another and its boiler exploded, killing some and scalding others. Grandpa was badly burned and was nursed back to health in Pekin, married his nurse and remained. When folks would notice his eastern accent and ask how he happened to be in Pekin, he would say he just blew into town one day. Also, the grandfather supposedly spelled his name Sallee but convinced Paul it would be more show busniess to spell it with a Z. Dick Schermer, Pekin, Illinois, fourstring@omnilec.com
John, I appreciate your reply about Romig and Rooney. I will try to contact Irv sometime when I visit my sister in Detroit. I didn't know much about them because a man named Tex Burwell knew them and had them use me to work with them and learn how to act in front of an audience. Elizabeth taught me a lot. Thanks again. Betty CHS Convention, July 9-12, 2009 Information 2953. Performer's pay, 07 June 2009 - Curious, how much does a performer make with the Cole Brothers Circus? I just took my son today to see the show, this is our second year seeing the Cole Circus. We loved it and I'm just curious, I love the circus. John Doherty, John2008nj@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
2952. Andy Camilleri, 06 June 2009 - I am trying to get more information on Andy Camilleri. According to an IOU I have, he used to have a monk and baboon act. I also think he had a small show that went to Alaska. In the IOU, he used a snake and a lion named Odessa for security on this loan from J. Sam Houston. Thank you, Lynne Bell. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 2951. Lydia Gordon, 02 June 2009 - Lydia May (Engle) Gordon rode the elephants in the circus during the depression. It was sometime after 1926 when he husband, Milton (Mike) Gordon was killed. She left her 4 children with her father, Dan Engle, near Spooner, WI and joined the RBBB, I think. I have been unable to locate any written information about her, and know the little info I have it true. I have seen the picture of a woman riding an elephant that hangs on the wall at Circus World Museum in Baraboo; it's the spitting image of my mother. I have a pewter framed picture of the roustabouts and the beaded purse my grandmother carried when she rode the elephant. I would appreciate any information about her or adresses of sites that may have the info. Thank you. Linda Durkee aka momdurkee@yahoo.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
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