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Message Archive: Messages 3151 - 3200
3200. Circus chest, 17 Dec 2009 - I collect primitive antiques, especially original surface paint. I acquired several years ago in Bloomington, IL a "circus chest" which is the size of a wide two drawer file cabinet. It has mustard paint, four front drawers which are outlined in black, and has the initials R P (I believe it to be a "P"). The handles of the drawers are wire, and it was described to me as a trick chest. One drawer must be open to open the third drawer, etc. Also was told it was made this way so the drawers would stay closed as it traveled on the circus wagon. It is a nicely home-made piece which I am sure has rich history. Crudely made, and my guess it was crafted in the 1850-1880's. I would love to learn more about it. The dealer I bought it from did not know much history. I also have found an unfinished oil on canvas in one of the drawers. It is stretched on a wood frame, subject is a violin player with blonde hair and stricking blue eyes, on a very dark background-exceptionally done, but unfinished and I cannot detect a signature. Please email any information, or I could send photos. Thank you! Kim Burck, kimscreel@hotmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3199. Merle Evans 78 records, 16 Dec 2009 - I have a Columbia record, a 4 pack, of the circus. It is Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey band. It is a 78 with Merle Evans bandmaster, Set C-58. Can you tell when this was made? Is there anything you can tell me about it. Thanks, Wayne. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3198. Russell's Circus box, 16 Dec 2009 - I have an old wooden box that is painted red with a name on it as follows: It says Russell's Circus, and ahead of Russell's there is a letter that I can't read, Could be a C. or O Not sure. The box is not that big, 18" long 10 3/4" wide 10" high. Would anyone have any information on this. Carol, Seaside Park NJ. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. CHS is on Facebook! Join our online community! - click here 3197. Circus poster collecting, 15 Dec 2009 - As a past animal trainer in aquariums I have always had an affinity to circus posters (especially those depicting menagerie and/or trained animal acts) and would like to being collecting. In doing some research I can see it's somewhat difficult to date posters and/or tell if they're authentic originals or reproductions. My questions... 1. For a novice collector like me where should I start in terms of learning the ropes of circus poster collecting? helpful hints on authenticity and the best places to look? Any signature characteristics that ALWAYS denote an original? I was looking on Ebay and some that look like they're originals are really cheaply priced while others that appear to have never been folded or stored (maybe indicating they're repros) are selling for higher prices? 2. I am particularly interested in Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey and read that in the 70's they began to create just one circus poster design for each show edition. Is there a location with a comprehensive guide for each of these images year by year, or show by show? I do love the circusmuseums.nl site and look forward to browsing there more. Wondering if there are other resources. 3. Many of the circus posters I see for sale at auction (like on Ebay), do not include any attached date sheet or area where they announce the date or location of the show. They are just beautiful lithographs that state the name of the circus and maybe some interesting text associated with a particular act. Can circus posters without date sheets still be originals? If so, In what context would a poster without a date sheet be used historically? Thanks so much for any helpful hints, I look forward to reading through the CHS archives and dealving into this research! Nick Visscher, Seattle, WA. Replies can go to Nick at nickvisscher@gmail.com. Question. Name, email address. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
$0040swgdepartment$$IS_STRICT$$ARCHIVES$002Aclassification$$IS_STRICT$$POSTERS. Secondly, In the event that you are a member of FACEBOOK - I urge you to "friend" the member CIRCUSPOSTERS. It's a place for discussion of circus posters and circus history, and you could certainly ask specific questions there. Chris Berry, circusposters@gmail.com.
3196. One finger stand, 07 Dec 2009 - When I was a young boy back in the late 40's, early 50's I remember going to Madison Square Garden & seeing a performer dressed in a tuxedo & top hat with white gloves & he would do a one finger stand on top of a lamp post yet no one I mention it to remembers the act. Please let me know if I was dreaming or if it was real. Thank You, Ray Ramos. 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 3195. LaBlonde Trio, 06 Dec 2009 - Hello, my name is Steve Bramlage. I am looking for information on any video on an aerial bar act from the 1950', the LaBlonde Trio. My father Bruce LaBlonde and grandfather Blondie LaBlonde were part of the act. I saw some footage on Bill Strong's site but understand he has since passed away. If you could give me any idea who to contact it would help. I was 10 years before I learned my name was Bramlage and not our show name, LaBlonde. I can be reached at bigbram@pwrtc.com. Thank you. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3194. Circus from Scotland 1835-55, 06 Dec 2009 - I am trying to locate the name of a circus that travelled to the US from Glasgow, Scotland between 1835 to 1855. If anyone has information that would be wonderful. Karen. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
CHS is on Facebook! Join our online community! - click here 3193. Sen Doi, 06 Dec 2009 - I am looking for some history for Sen Doi. She was a Slack Wire artist is the Barnum and Bailey Circus in the early 20th century. She came from Japan in an acrobatic group called the Nikko (?) troupe, who included 2 twin brother who walked up the stair on their head. She is my great-grandmother, and I want to know more about her. Rita. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3192. Modoc, 05 Dec 2009 - I just finished reading "Modoc" by Ralph Helfer. Then today I wanted to read more about Modoc and the movies or tv shows she appeared in so I looked online for more information only to read online that the book was a lie and that there never was an elephant such as the one he wrote about or a man named Bram Gunterstein. I looked on your website because I hoped to read more, but there wasn't any thing there. So, I am writing to you in hopes you can tell me more about Moduc and Mr. Gunterstein (or whoever this man's name was, if he really existed. I noticed that the photos in the book did not show an elephant with tusks when the text by Mr. Helfer clearly says she had tusks. This story really meant something to me and it did move me to tears. Thank you, Michael Beickel. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
1486. Modoc, 10 August, 2006 - I read on one of your questions that someone questioned if the book" Modoc" was real and someone answered and said no it wasn't. What do they mean? Was Modoc not sold to Mr. North, and shipwrecked with Bram in India only to be found by Mr. North and taken to America. Did the the author Ralph Helfer not only buy Modoc but employed Bram Gunterstein and his wife? If this is not true then Ralph Helfer has a big problem!? If anyone has the answer I would really like to know because I loved this book. Please answer me at jeaninepartridge@hotmail.com. Reply: 11 August, 2006 - The true answers to your questions are covered in these tables previously but I am not sure what the Question number was. You are correct that Mr. Helfer did briefly own an elephant named Modoc. My records indicate six different elephants over the years were named Modoc. The elephant that Mr. Helfer owned originated in America in 1922 on the Gollmar Bros. Circus. 1923 to 1924 she was on the John Robinson Circus and 1925 to 1934 she was on the Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus. This stay gave her the nickname of Wallace Modoc which kept her distinguished between other elephants named Modoc over the years. She was only under the Ringling Bros. title in 1939 when the Ringling show which owned Hagenbeck-Wallace, Al G. Barnes, Sells Floto, and John Robinson took them all off the road and combined everything they hadn't already sold over the last ten years of ownership of these circuses. Mr. Helfer's elephant, Wallace Modoc, then took up residence at Thousand Oaks, and Louis Goebel's in Ca. until 1948. 1949 and 1950 had her on Biller Bros. Circus. 1951 to 1962 she called the Memphis Zoo home. 1963 to 1972 she resided at Africa USA complexes in Ca. Mr. Helfer owned her from 1972 to 1975. She passed this life on July 19, 1975. Her age was determined to be 55 years old at the time of death. Big Modoc, which was the Ringling dancing star referred to in the book, has a long and rich history from her birth in 1900. She graced the Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey Big Top from 1930 to 1957. She died in Sarasota in 1957. Obviously her life had passed years before Mr. Helfer ever owned an elephant. Bob Cline Reply: 12 August, 2006 - Mr. Cline, Thank you so much for answering. This may be a stupid question but, who are you? How do you know so much about Modoc etc? I read previously about the different Modocs but it still doesn't answer my question. Did Bram grow up with modoc, get shipwrecked in India, marry, brought back to America by Mr. North (was there really a North Circus). I guess it doesn't really matter whether or not Helfer owned the dancing Modoc. What makes the book amazing is the relationship between Bram and Modoc. If there was no such relationship , I don't see how he can get away with the book?? Again, thank you for taking the time to answer me. I feel like an idiot for recommending this book to everyone if it isn't true. jeanine partridget Reply: 13 August, 2006 - I am a former circus performer and now a Historian of sorts. I have been keeping elephant lives information for about 15 years and with the computer age, I can keep it all in an Excel Program at my fingertips. Did I do it all by myself, Certainly not. I have collected information over the years from reports on circuses, Historical writings by others, eye witness accounts, my own recollections and other elephant historians like Chang Reynolds (His files are now housed in the Circus World Museum Library in Baraboo, Wi.) Renowned Animal historian Richard Reynolds III, Don Marcks files, Stephen Flint, and legendary elephant historian and former performer Buckles Woodcock to name a few. I simply answered your question. The Mr. North you ask about is in reference to John Ringling North who owned the Ringling Bros. Circus from about the 1940's till he sold it the Irvin Feld's organization in 1968. Mr. North was a son to the famous Ringling Bros. sister. As for Bram, He is probably researchable as well to determine whether factual or fake by checking the Immigration records first. That was never my concern. Just the elephant's life story. Bob Cline Reply: 15 June 2009 - I have just finished reading Modoc by Ralph Helfer and I too was bothered by inconsitancies. I went to the internet to investigate. Not only did I find reference to six different Modocs, but there was no evidence of a real Bram Gunterstein. It was an exciting story, but if it is only "true-ish" that takes away much of my enthusiasm. I noticed for example plenty of written references to Modoc's tusks but none of the uncaptioned pictures showed any tusks at all on any elephant. It seems like a shipwreck involving a famous circus would be easy to track down. A circus elephant born in captivity and then secretly working in an Indian teak forest would also stand out in circus history. Like others who have written I would like to know how Helfer managed to come up with this entertaining but apparently fictional--loosely based on facts--story. S. D. Landre Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3191. Eph Thompson, 04 Dec 2009 - I was wondering if any of you're readers had come across a 1956 newspaper article which relates to Moses "Eph" Thompson and his Elephants. I am led to believe that it is an American newspaper and that it relates to Eph Thompson, any clues as where to look. Thank you. Ray Perkin, England UK. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3190. Ubangis, 04 Dec 2009 - In 1930 the “Ubangi Savages” began their exhibition in the United States on the Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Circus. It is my understanding that after Louis Bergonnier first saw the attraction in Paris, he brought them to the US where Roland Butler christened them “Ubangis” even though they were from the Congo – several hundred miles from the Ubangi River. A couple of questions: It is my understanding that 13 women and 2 men were brought to the US by Bergonnier. Were ALL of them with Ringling-Barnum? Posters with Ubangis were also created for both Al G. Barnes and Hagenbeck-Wallace. Did any of the women actually tour with those shows? Finally, what was the last year that the Ubangis toured with Ringling-Barnum? Chris Berry, circusposters@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
I have never been able to pinpoint just where Dr. Eugene Bergonier got hold of them but assume it was at some sort of ethnological show in Paris, perhaps in the Jardin d' Acclimatation. He had first encountered them in 1924-25 when he traveled with an expedition through west and central Africa. It was sponsored by auto maker Citroen-Peugeot to prove that it was possible to cross Africa by motorized vehicles. Bergonier brought the saucer lipped women to the USA from Montevideo, Uruguay Brazil where Bergonier had them on exhibition in the winter of 1929-30. They were with RBBB in 1930. In a master stroke of publicity genius RBBB press man Roland Butler named them "Ubangis" after the Ubangi River which, though in also central Africa, had nothing to do with the saucer lipped women. He liked the ring of the name. At the end of the 1930 season the Ubangis were sent back. Bergonier had died mysteriously in Sarasota in October, 1930, allegedly from a curse put on him by the Ubangi witch doctor. Another group of Saras (Ubangis) were imported in January 1932.They seem to have been at the huge Colonial Exposition in Paris in 1931. They were brought over by carnival men Terry Turner and Lou Dufour. They were shown in several theaters and then sent to RBBB for the 1932 spring and summer tours. RBBB kept part of the group and sent the remainder to its subsidiary show Al. G. Barnes. Owing to the great depression, the Barnes show closed early. Its part of the Ubangis were then sent to the 1932 Canadian National Exhibition in Toronto . They as well as the ones with RBBB then seem to have returned to Africa. At some point around this time one or the other of these troupes of saucer lipped women were exhibited in the Berlin Zoo. - Richard Reynolds Keep the heritage of the circus alive, join CHS today! Membership 3189. Circus in Perspective symposium, 02 Dec 2009 - On Monday 21th December 2009 Dutch circusmagazine The Piste together with www.circusmuseum.nl/eng are organizing a symposium called Circus in Perspective in Teylers Museum, Haarlem , the Netherlands. Symposium is about the future of the circus, the chances and the threats and the importance of circus history. Feel free to come, no charge, it starts at 10.15 in the morning and will end at 13.00 o clock. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3188. Leo "Suicide" Simon, 02 Dec 2009 - Hello, I am Sue from Texas, merlinbc@hughes.net. I am researching information for a friend who is the neice of Leo "Suicide" Simon. Mr. Simon was known to be a fire diver in the 1944-1950 time period with groups in Texas which may have been the Alamo Exposition Shows, or Alamo Organization and later on became the Dynamite daredevil who would blow himself up. Possibly with the Morris Hannum Shows. He appeared in many small towns in Texas and Coney Island, Cincinnatti He probably retired to El Jobean in Florida. I have found many references to Mr. Simon in the Billboard magazine of 1944-early 1950's and also an article in Popular Mechanics in the March, 1950 edition, with photos and explanation of the dynamite act and how it worked. Mr. Simon's only sister passed away in 1959 and the family lost contact with him. Any information that would lead us to discover more about Mr. Simon would be greatly appreciated. Newspaper articles, photos, or books would be very helpful. Thanks to all who respond. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. CHS is on Facebook! Join our online community! - click here 3187. Sailor Dick, 01 Dec 2009 - I am the great grand son of Sailor Dick, a circus employee of the 1870's. According to family stories, he was killed at a performance in Chicago. Do you know how we can research him? Thank you, Tom Harrigan. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
"Sailor Dick," identified as Richard Brooks, an employee serving as the boiler engineer, was the sole companion of Burr Robbins, when the latter, at the wheel in darkness, inadvertently steered his little steamboat into a pier. The action turned the boat and pinned Robbins' head between the boiler and bracing on a bridge, thereby causing him life-threatening cranial injuries. This is related in the Janesville "Gazette" of January 19 and 20, 1880, and November 2, 1912. Brooks' fast actions in getting attention to Robbins may have been a factor in saving the man's life. Robbins eventually recovered. The death of Sailor Dick was reported in the Janesville "Gazette" of September 21, 1885. Despite rumors to the contrary, he apparently died of natural causes. He'd been in good health in Janesville the Tuesday before, giving rise to stories that he'd been shot and so on. He left the troupe two to three weeks before his passing, when it was at Marshalltown, Iowa. He'd taken a new position as boss canvasman with an unidentified circus out of Chicago, with the intent to do a winter tour into the South with it. Brooks was described as a Robbins employee of many years, last serving as master of transportation. His remains were returned to Janesville and presumably he was interred there. A wife and three children survived him. His wife was then residing in Janesville, on Eastern Avenue, in the Third Ward. Joe McKennon included mention of "Sailor Dick" Brooks in passing in his fictional novel "Horse Dung Trail," page 75. No origin is given for Brooks' nickname, such as Great Lakes maritime experience. Given that he handled the many yards of billowing canvas that formed the circus big top and other tops, much like that on sailing ships, perhaps his name resulted from his circus occupation? It's possible that he worked his way up from roustabout to the top spot in that department. Boss canvasman was a very responsible position to fill on any circus. It was not uncommon for such men to also manage the movement of the show, by wagon or railroad train, and thus the latter day master of transportation spot. If Brooks filled a performance position, as indicated by Slout's listing, his name may have been obscured by stage names utilized in Robbins advertising. There may be further information about him in the weekly circus news columns of the "New York Clipper," and you might also try the Janesville "Gazette" newspaper, which is available at www.newspaperarchive.com, with key word searching. I did so, with just three "hits." The Chicago "Tribune" is also available on ProQuest. A larger library near you may be able to provide "free" access to both. There's an overview of the Burr Robbins circus history in "Bandwagon," November-December 1969, with additional coverage in the book "Badger State Showmen." Robbins circus treasurer David W. Watt chronicled many activities of the Robbins circus, published in a more than decade-long series of stories titled "Side Lights on the Circus Business," in the Janesville "Gazette." These were reprinted in "Bandwagon" in recent years. In the segment of May 24, 1913, Watt recalled a day in 1879 when Brooks served as boss animal man. He rode a horse and accompanied the two elephants of the circus as they marched overland. He'd overslept and Watt awakened him and told him to hurry along, lest proprietor Robbins give him a tongue lashing for being late. Brooks made up most of the time and thereby may have saved his job. Robbins, by all accounts, was a very demanding taskmaster. Fred Dahlinger
3186. Carola Boets, 30 Nov 2009 - Hello everybody! I'm a Brazilian journalist, songwriter and popular music researcher. Does anyone have any info about Carola Boets? All I know about her is that she was a Belgian circus accordionist who had a duo with her husband until the 1950s, then she moved to Brazil where whe worked at Circo Garcia, one of the biggest Brazilian circus companies. If I'm not wrong she and her husband had a duo called The Scandallis, no doubt after the famous accordion brand. Does anyone have any further info on them, including any recordings (if they ever made any)? Thanks in advance! Cheerio, Ayrton. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3185. Bob & Dixie Seaton, 30 Nov 2009 - My Name is Doug Edwards and I was looking for information on Bob Seaton and Dixie Seaton. Bob an I grow up as teenagers in Oahu and wanted to get back in touch with him. Thanks, Doug Edwards. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3184. Circus Harrison, 27 Nov 2009 - Hello, There was a Circus Harrison, that went to Cuba in the 1930's. They had a show in the hometown of Santa Cruz del Sur, province of Camaguey. I'm in the process of writing a book & in my family memoirs they mentioned this circus. Any data would be greatly appreciated, when it was originally created, if still exists? According to my family writings they had all kind of animals & acrobats, etc. Thanking you ahead for your time & consideration. Sincerely, Leonel Menendez Alvarez. 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 3183. Circus World, 24 Nov 2009 - You can support Circus World! The Ringlingville courtyard, rebuilt after the 2008 flood, features Circus World's Landmark granite marker, proclaiming the site's National historic status as the Ringling brothers winter quarters. You can dedicate a brick or authentic reproductions of benches, plant urns or table and chair sets. Information link: Circus World.
3182. Bert Galey band, 25 Nov 2009 - Hello, Bert Galey band at the Hippodrome Circus Great Yarmouth. I am Bert's son and trying to find anything that has been published about Billy Russells circus at the Hippodrome Great Yarmouth that mentions Bert Galey who was one of the Directors as well the Band Leader. I now live in Australia, however any emailed information would be much appreciated. Regards, Mike, mclarke7@bigpond.net.au. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. CHS is on Facebook! Join our online community! - click here 3181. Floritas Sisters, 25 Nov 2009 - I am interested in information about Floritas Sisters, who in the 1930’ties presented a “deviding ladder act” and probably toured over most of the world. Floritas Sisters were Danes: Emilie Altenburg (born 10 December 1892) and her daughter Emilie (or Emilia), born around 1916. The act might have started as 4 Florita Sisters – dangerous ladder balancing. Floritas Sisters was dissolved in 1940 when the daughter probably married a Swedish bare back rider Oskar Clemento Paulsen. The mother took a young girl Norma Nielsen as trainee and treated her roughly. Norma became later known at the trapeze star La Norma (Norma Fox). Ole Simonsen, www.circus-dk.dk. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3180. David Mark Slusser, 23 Nov 2009 - It is may sad duty to inform you of the untimely death of David Mark Slusser, former HIHO the clown on the Big John Strong Circus in the early 70's. Dave was the son of Chester and Marylu Slusser, long time circus fans, historians and model builders. Ken Slusser. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3179. Leo Grund, 22 Nov 2009 - I am interested in finding out if anyone remembers an Austrian named Leo Grund. I know he owned a business called International Attractions in New York City. My uncle was his companion until Leo's death in 1977/78. They lived on Central Park West. My uncle died in October of 1978. They lived together for many, many years. Any information would be appreciated. Thank you, S. Walls. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3178. Trini La Negra, 20 Nov 2009 - Hi all, I am the half brother of Kathy Escalante Clark, Nick Escalante was my father. My adoptive mother was Trini (La Negra) and she was married to Robert Acevedo, Nicks cousin. She performed in the Escalante Circus with Robert and Betty (Chana) Milot, Robert's sister. She was a tightwire performer. Unfortunately my mother passed July 09 at 86 yrs of age. Robert. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3177. Charles & Ida Keith, trapeze, 20 Nov 2009 - I am looking for information/photographs about a trapeze act ‘Keith and Keith’ who performed with the Escalante Brothers Circus. Their names were Charles and Ida Keith. They might be memorable as Ida Keith was missing fingers on her left hand. They are relatives of my best friend and I want to surprise him with information/photographs. Thanks. Cara Lee Wade. 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
3176. Downie Bros., 20 Nov 2009 - I have a poster for Downie Bros., as appearing in Putnam, CT on Friday, August 23. Does anyone know what year that was? Possibilities include: 1901, 1907, 1912, 1918, 1929, 1935, 1940 (I think) and 1946 (among others). Bev. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3175. George Garford, 19 Nov 2009 - Hi, Looking for any information on a George Garford, believed to be a trapese performer with the George Sanger Circus in the Late 1800s, later with a performing dog act as Professor Garford. Cheers, Bob Beattie, robur4@bigpond.com.au. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender. CHS is on Facebook! Join our online community! - click here 3174. Flying Valentines William Henry, Doris, Raymond, Gerald, Rose, 18 Nov 2009 - Hi, Since my dad Richard Allen Valentine was the black sheep of the family, I grew up without knowing my extended family. I have felt disconected historically for years. My father passed away and left little information. All I have is memories of names and a few stories which I am not sure are true. I know have 5 kids wanting details! My dad was a BIG story teller. I do know for sure my grandpa was circus trapeze artist of the Flying Valentines. I visited him in Houston when I was 6, (now 50). I sent cards to my grandmother (actually my dads step mom) and got several replies back over the years. She died years ago. I never got much of a story from her since I was in the Navy at the time and just kept xmas cards going, and she also had bad arthritis and could barely write. I remember seeing a picture of my Grandpa William Valentine flying with Burt Lancaster in a houston paper I beleive. They may have been orginally from Bloomington, as that was where my dad was born. I am so excited to find this site and I wasn't quite looking for it, I happened upon it by accident, but I have been searching for this info for years and practically gave up. I read the entire site and have found Valentine, Valenta, Valentino. I think they were originally Valentino, but changed to The flying Valentine's. I remember a Grandpa's brother named Woody, I think. When I was traveling I found a flyer in Denny's and Ardmore, Ok a few years back that llisted the All American Flying Valentine Circus performing for Ardmore 100th anniversary. I really wanted to go but felt maybe I was on the wrong track. I have since figured out I must be wrong, I met someone one who knew that All American Flying Valentine Circus is part of Ray Jr Valentine, my cousin, I beleive. And I remember meeting him when I was a teenager in Simi CA. when they were performing with his Dad, my uncle for a Shiner Circus I think? Also heard that the broke collar bones not using a net. Can anyone help me? I want to put a family history together or my kids (hubby has one that goes back to 950ad!) I just want my kids to have something from moms side! Contact PamValentine@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3173. How many circuses, 18 Nov 2009 - Hi! How many circuses are in the world? Thanks, Peter. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3172. Circuses, St. Joseph, MI, 1954-56, 17 Nov 2009 - Hello, I am looking for information about traveling circuses that came to S. West Michigan, specifically St. Joseph, between 1954 to 1956. I grew up hearing stories of my father sleeping with the tiger cubs when the circus came to town. My father has passed away so I can’t ask him what circus it was. I am artist and looking for historical information to add to a city project. We are close to Chicago (right across the lake) and had a very popular amusement park back then called Silver Beach. The circus would set up near the park. The amusement park sat near the train depot and I believe the circus came by train to town. How many questions I have for my father! He was born in 1941, here in Benton Harbor/St. Joseph. He had lots of stories about the circus, and Silver Beach. Any assistance would be very much appreciated! Kirstin Geldhof, Benton Harbor, MI. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3171. William Y. Higgins, 15 Nov 2009 - Does anyone know the where abouts of William Y. Higgins, Ringling Veterinarian, Vet/Supervisor and my friend at Atlanta Zoo? Thank you. Corinne Rider. 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 3170. Sells-Floto, 13 Nov 2009 - I am trying to get some history of the Sells-Floto circus. I have heard that the Snowdens had owned the circus after it was sold by Hickock and then sold to Barnum and Bailey circus. I will wait for a reply. snowreid!aol.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3169. Kit Clarke, 13 Nov 2009 - Hi, I just came upon a photo of Kit Clarke in my home. It was one of a bunch of random old photos I bought about 10 years ago. On the back, handwritten and signed, it says, "To My Friend Lawrence Yours Truly Kit Clarke May 25th 1873" Reading through your site I see that it could be to Fred Lawrence mentioned on this page www.circushistory.org/History/Leavitt.htm I'm pretty into advertising and copy writing in general, so it's nice for me to find something like this. But I have some questions I was hoping you could answer. Is there a book with the biography of Kit Clarke that you are aware of? Best, Al Rotches. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
CHS is on Facebook! Join our online community! - click here 3168. Wonder of Wirths book, 10 Nov 2009 - Hi, I was hoping you could help me?! I am after a copy of the book "The Wonder of Wirths" by Jim Fogarty to purchase. Either new or secondhand in reasonable condition. My husband is a descendant of the Wirths. Thanks, Regards, Elise Pettitt, elisepettitt@skymesh.com.au. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3167. Thomas Kelly, 10 Nov 2009 - I'm desperately looking for information on Thomas Joseph Kelly especially between 1887 & 1888. He worked as commissary, layer out, hotel and forage agent for Barnum & London so would have been working ahead of the circus, preparing the way. Barnum & Bailey were in London, England during 1889 which means Thomas Kelly was more than likely in London during 1887/8. My contact information is sheila.sexton@btinternet.com and I'm hoping that a private owner of selected documents may be able to help me find out more. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3166. Email interview, 10 Nov 2009 - My name is Nicole Stafford and I am currently a senior at Pella High School in Pella, Iowa. I am writing a research paper on the history of the American Circus with an emphasis on the Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus. I am inquiring into the possiblity of conducting an interview via e-mail. Please contact me at classic.altec@live.com if you are able to help or if you know of any person who is an authority on this subject. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3165. Arizona Joe's Wild West, 10 Nov 2009 - I have been trying to get information of my Great Grand Father Joseph Bruce,(Arizona Joe's Wild West Shows). My Grand mother would tell me about growing up with him and the show's. My Grand Mother gave me a photo, which was taken in the 1800's which shows my Great Grand Father with an Indian and a dog, who were part of his show. My Grand father was also known as the "shooting Star" He was presented a gold plated Winncheaster rifle for his shooting. I noticed that you have his name listed. Do you have information on his shows? If so I would like to purchase any information available. Thank you, looking forward to hearing from you. Doug Abercrombie, My e-mail address: doug.abercrombie@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 3164. Hagan Bros. Circus, 09 Nov 2009 - Hello, I am looking for any information on the Hagan Brothers circus that possibly wintered in Edmond, OK. While walking this morning my fiance and I found the remains of what appears to be a winter encampment. We found 5 different trailers (one of which says on the side of the trailer "El Circo mas "Grande Del Mundo"), a burned out bus, several metal animal cages, the remains of what appears to be bleachers and the remains of a two-story home. Through some research (and from some of the painting that appears on the trailers) we have deduced that this was possibly the home of the Hagan Brothers Circus. We are hoping to find more information on the circus and also hoping to find out if we are correct that this was the Hagan Brothers. The location of the encampment is on the west side of Kelly Ave. in Edmond between 2nd and Danforth on about the 1/2 mile mark between the 2 roads. Thanks, Nicole, nwolf@okstate.edu. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3163. Cirque Pinder & Cirque Strassberger, 09 Nov 2009 - Hi, I was wondering how I could find out more about Cirque Pinder & Cirque Strassberger circa 1850's/60. I'm particularly interested in finding if any photos exist from that time, as my GG Grandfather and his brother were musicians and clowns who worked with these circuses. I would love to be able to show my daughter what circus/performing life was like back then as she is a member of a local community circus. Thanks, Norma. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
CHS is on Facebook! Join our online community! - click here 3162. Overweight young boys, 08 Nov 2009 - Hi, I have an old cabinet photo showing 2 young boys that are rather large - Clifford 8 years old 233 lbs.; Edward 10 years 255 lbs. In the photo they are wearing some sort of body stocking and sandals. Would kids this age have worked in a circus? Would their weight have been the attraction? Any thoughts of information appreciated, mary. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
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3161. Photographer, Modoc book, 08 Nov 2009 - I am trying to find the name of the photographer who shot the elephant with the young child's arm around her, which subsequently ended up on the cover of the book about Modoc. A collection of the photographer's work was published, possibly post-humously, and I saw it in a bookstore in the late 80s or early 90s. I regret not buying it at the time and am now trying to find it. The elephant image is the only one I vividly recall. Any help is greatly appreciated. Thanks, julieschick@gmail.com. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3160. Texas, August 1870, 08 Nov 2009 - In his posthumous biography outlaw John Wesley Hardin claimed to have killed a circus hand in Hill County Texas of August 1870. Supposedly Circus was "Richardsons". Could this have occurred? Sincerely, PF. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
The Hardin event is cited as taking place in Horn Hill, Limestone County, Texas. Hardin departed from Pisga [now Pisgah] on 20 January 1870 and with Horn Hill just 25 miles away he'd have been there in a day or two at most. [George Wesley Hardin, "The Life of John Wesley Hardin," 1896, page 23] The showman who pulled his gun after Hardin accidentally touched his hand was sleeping on the ground, not in a local hotel. This probably describes a show roustabout, a working man, not a performer or staff person. The Richardson name is not mentioned in this account. A genealogy website stated it, and also Robertson. Where did you find the name and the August 1870 date? Others state January 4. For the moment, we'll accept the name designation and the date. I would caution you that people often remember the most famous circus titles; in this instance, Hardin, or the chronicler, was probably trying to remember John Robinson. It may have been an entirely different show involved in the alleged incident, even if the date is accurate. There is no record of a Richardson's in that season; although a Col. Ginger's Circus is also reported in Texas, in association with another Texas character, perhaps there were some local troupes that escaped national notice? Or, it could have been a reduced scale, winter-time operation. Bert Chipman's book "Hey Rube" captures some of the flavor of the fighting years, times in which "recreational fighting" was not uncommon in the US. Circuses were fertile territory, bringing to town a bunch of work-hardened men against which the locals could test their pugilistic, and something their shooting skills. More often than not, the locals came out the worse, the circus people being organized in their efforts to repel an unruly mob that was usually fueled by liquid courage and dissipated by its longer term effects. Owner Harry Whitby was murdered elsewhere in 1870, and proprietor William Lake in 1869, so death did visit the show lots. John Robinson's circus was noted for a number of clems, or brawls, that sometimes claimed the lives of both locals and circus men. In 1869, four were recorded by October. Richard E. Conover's book "Give 'Em a John Robinson" mentions a number of battles, but none in 1870. In his book "Old Wagon Show Days," Gil Robinson states on pages 84-85 that his father's John Robinson circus was in Texas in 1870. Elsewhere on this website is a statement from the "New York Clipper," September 24, 1870, p. 1991, which confirms the John Robinson show was in Texas and Louisiana, starting at Boston [now New Boston?], TX and ending at Baton Rouge. The John Robinson 1869 and 1870 routes are available somewhere. If Hardin shot a performer in the head, as stated in one on-line version, that would have been reported in the Clipper. There was a particularly bad clem on John Robinson at Jacksonville, Texas on November 23, 1873. It made the national newspapers, including the "New York Times." Sixteen locals and seven showmen were reportedly killed, the worst such incident in circus history. It's also covered in an article in the CHS journal "Bandwagon," January-February 2006, pages 18-21. Texas was always tough circus territory, so it would be no surprise to learn Hardin was one of the local shooters. The local newspapers, or the ones in the closest county seats, might have coverage of the 1870 incident. You can also check the routes and circus news columns in the weekly "New York Clipper" for coverage of the John Robinson and other operations. Be advised that there were several Robinson-named shows in 1870: John Robinson; James Robinson; Alex Robinson; Yankee Robinson; and J. W. Robinson. You could also do an "edit" search of Slout's "Olympians of the Sawdust Circle" on this website, locating death dates in "1870," and also "Texas." You might find one in Texas that fills the bill. Few 19th century circus people of note escaped Slout's net, but workingmen are not well-represented. Here's an example of what can be found with some creative searching on-line, providing the names of two more shows that cut across Texas with murderous results: DALLAS HERALD, April 16, 1870, p. 1, c. 5. Desperado Killed. — We learn that a desperado, named Matkins, was killed in Jacksonville, Cherokee county, on the day of the circus exhibition of C. W. Noyes, at that place. This is the same one who killed a man attached to Orton's circus, on a previous occasion, and report says has been guilty of other like crimes of a most revolting nature. On the day of the Noyes' circus exhibition a party of troops were sent down from this place to ascertain the whereabouts of the murderer, and, if possible, arrest him. As was expected, the assassin came into town, armed, and fully prepared to defend himself. The officer in command, Lt. Bothwick, attempted an arrest when he at once resisted, firing a double barrel gun at the party. The troops then fired, killing him on the spot. It was the general impression among the citizens that rather than be taken alive he would fight to the last, and so it proved. The people of the neighborhood where he lived are highly elated that so desperate a villain has paid the penalty of his crimes. He had become a perfect terror to all the surrounding country. We are also informed that a young man by the name of Smith, who had been in company with Matkins, was killed on the same day; under what circumstances we have not learned. Here's an incident of one local shooting another while the circus was in town: www.rootsweb.ancestry.com/~txvzcgs/vzgsgun.htm Narrowing the search to about January 20-22, 1870, in regional newspapers and the "New York Clipper" ought to produce the research necessary to confirm or refute the account. If nothing is found, then I'd suggest a broader search. Fred Dahlinger
3159. Russian circus performers, 08 Nov 2009 - Hello, I was sent to your site by a friend who found it while researching Russian Circus performers. We both are members of Big Fish Games and its Forums. Big Fish games is an internet site that provides PC games for sale and an online game community. Each year Big Fish produces games from its own studios. A highly anticipated game is being released in December, the latest in Mystery Case Files franchise. As part of the anticipation, the founder and CSO comes to the Forums and provides clues to solve regarding the new game. The clue that has us all completely stumped is - What do 1900's Russian circus performers have to do with English nobility? Just kidding (or am I?) I understand you are a member of the American Circus Historical Society site, but any direction would be greatly appreciated. I thoroughly enjoyed the information I did find on the Circus Historical Site and I Thank You for your time. Zelda Horowitz. 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 3158. Shirley Needham, 07 Nov 2009 - Does anyone know the wherabouts of Shirley Needham who used to live in Streatham, London. We worked together in RBB&B circus from around 1964 during their European tour and years later lost contact. I'd love to meet up with her again, or at least hear of her whereabouts. Please help! Maddy Kinder. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3157. Paul Schultz, bareback rider, 07 Nov 2009 - Hi, My name is Paulette Schultz Sloane and I have information that my Grandfather traveled with the Hagenback-Wallace circus. His name was Paul Bernhardt Schultz and he was a bare back rider. Stories have said that he fell off the horse and hurt himself so bad that he had to quit the circus. He was also a barber and maybe some stories have passed through the generations that have included him. If so Please email me back with the info that you may have. He was a small man about 5'3 weighed a bout 120-135 pounds. He came to this country from Germany and did not speak good english. He was married in 1911 to my Grandmother, so the time frame would be before that time. Probably early 1900's. Thank You, Paulette. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
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3156. P. T. Barnum, Holly MI, 05 Nov 2009 - I am searching for information regarding P.T. Barnum’s summer headquarters which was located for a time in Holly, Michigan. There is a historical marker in the town, placed in the Village of Holly’s “Battle Alley” about the circus performers’ run-in with some drunkards which resulted in an all-out brawl, hence the term “Battle Alley”! Fact or fiction? Also, I’m trying to prove or disapprove an urban legend that there is an elephant buried in the yard of the house that served as the circus’ summer headquarters. Fact or fiction? Any information about the circus’ stay in Holly, Michigan would be very helpful. We are planning a new community festival, beginning in 2010 dedicated to the history of Holly – we’d like to showcase the circus’ historical impact on our town as much as possible. Thank you for your assistance! Katy Hughes. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3155. James W. Goodrich Shows, 05 Nov 2009 - Hi, I have just recently become interested in The James W. Goodrich Shows and the reason is I have always been interested in antiques and folk art. I acquired the big red and white solid wooden ball that the elephants rolled around and the wooden hub caps from one of the wagons. Then this weekend the same man let loose of the special little car that a real live monkey rode down a long wooden ramp. The package deal included a bunch of tickets and a story about Theodore Hoffman faced with a decision in 1915. Half of the circus was in Conn. and half was in another state when the polio epidemic broke out. The state officials closed the borders so the other half couldn't return home. Hoffman tried running the half circus but it didn't work. It was decided to store the half circus in a barn until it was rediscovered in 1986. Yours Truly, John Blenis. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
About 1986 an antique dealer in Reisterstown, Maryland had some of the material from the show. I remember seeing the monkey loop the loop ride and other items in a basement. I also saw a few years ago a ticket box and other items on ebay, which might be the material that you currently have. A few years ago I purchased the correspondence and business records of the Hoffman show which also includes some of the Goodrich archives. There is little documentation from the 1916 season which appears to be when the show was caught in the New York resort area when the polio epidemic hit, but I cannot confirm it. On the back of one of the 1916 contracts for the L.W. Hoffman Jr. Shows it notes - This show will travel through summer resort territory where the large percentage of the population sleep out in summer houses and tents, and pay well for the privilege, so with our show, we have equipted a fine dry roomy sleeping tent, with suitable beds, and blankets, and will sleep the people on the lot . . . the show opens about June first, will want you to report three days ahead of time. Check the Bandwagon index on this website for the Goodrich Circus as I have written about getting the show on the road from the owners point of view, and the advance agents story about routing the show for the 1901 season. The big wooden ball was from the goat act, as the show only leased an elephant for one season. JP Why join CHS? Find out here - Membership 3154. Circus token, 02 Nov 2009 - Dear Sirs: We have found what we believe is a circus token or medal which is made of either brass or bronze. The front side has a side view of a elephant standing on something like a mound and shoe a tree branch or bush above him. One the reverse it says "Rose Show 1928. Any information on this token-medal would be very much appreciated. Thank You, Martin & Linda Collins. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3153. Texas Tom's Overland Show, 02 Nov 2009 - I am a decendant of the owner of the Texas Tom's Overland Show, James Thomas Parker. He operated the show from 1914 to 1915. Diboll, Texas and Puckett, Mississippi were included in his numerous show routes. His son, Eugene, was part owner and musical director while his wife, Minnie Ola was the secretary-treasurer. Their children were included in the circus acts. I do have a few of their circus pictures. Sibby. 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 3152. Circuses, Italy 1898-1905, 02 Nov 2009 - Hello. I am seeking the names or information of any circuses that toured northern Italy around 1898 to 1905. My great grandmother was a bareback horse rider in a circus. She was known as Dina but that could be short for something. The circus was operated by her family and was still around in the mid to late 1920s. She was not married but had a child (my grandfather) called Attilio Napoli. I believe that is why she left the circus. Any news on circuses of that time would be appreciated. Thank you, Attilio Napoli. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
3151. Circus 1920's OK, 02 Nov 2009 - My high school drama coach Dora Hobbs was a high school student in Hennessey, OK from 1920 to 1924 and talked about falling in love with the "tent actors" and almost running off with a visiting circus when one of the actresses got sick and she was offered a job. Did circuses ever offer dramatic/comic skits or plays? Which circus might have visited the Hennessey, OK area during that time? Carol. Reply to this message, replies go to this board, not to the message sender.
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