Circus Historical Society
Circuses - Brief Bits
C D E
A - B C - E F - H I - L M - N O - R S - T U - Z
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Information on these circuses was taken from the New York Clipper, Billboard, newspapers, and others. Some of the shows may not be circuses. Note that not only do the Clipper, Billboard and newspapers have typographical errors, the transcription will also have typos. All information should be checked with additional sources.
Caldwell's Occidental Circus - 1867
Caldwell's Occidental Circus will exhibit at Centerville, on Tuesday, May the 14th. This circus has the reputation of being a first class troupe, and, judging from the present indications, it promises to afford entertainment and amusement for all who may see proper to patronize it. Mr. Oliver Bell is posted to leap through a hoop surrounded with daggers. A superb chariot drawn by ten horses and containing a silver cornet band will enter town at the head of the procession; to be followed by Dr. J. H. Caldwell driving his trained horses without bridles. Admission 50 cts. Children under 10 years 25 cts. Performance in the afternoon and evening. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. Loyal Citizen (Centerville, IA), May 8, 1867, n.p.n.
The storm early Friday morning raged with great fury for awhile, sweeping all before it. The rain was heavy, while the wind approached a young tornado in its force. Caldwell's Circus tent was blown flat as a pancake. Canvas, poles and seats were heaped up in a mass, and looked as though there had been a row on the premises. The canvas looked yesterday as though a washing would improve its appearance. However things were righted and the show went on as usual. Dubuque Daily Herald (IA), June 15, 1867, n.p.n.
• 1867: online at:
Clipper, March 16, Clipper, May 4, Clipper, June 8 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 27 (scroll down)
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California Frank's - 1911, 1914, 1919 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1914
1911:
California Frank's All-Star Wild West. C. Frank Hafley, president and director general; Major C. F. Rhodes, vice-president and manager; Fred C. Beckman, treasurer; S. H. Felder, contracting agent; C. W. McCurran, superintendent; Eddie Grinhan, press agent; Wm. Spaff, auditor; Walter Sibley, manager sideshow; Col. Chas. Seely, legal adjuster; C. A. Guiellette, asst. legal adjuster; Wm. Connors, manager advance car No. 1; Clint A. Graham, supt. transportation; Wm. Dynd(?), supt. commissary dept.; Eddie Botsford, arena director. Billboard, April 29, 1911, p. 60.
Clown Loretta will again be seen with the California Frank Show, which will make his fourth season with that organization. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
1914:
California Frank's Wild West, Inc. Col. C. F. Hafley, manager; Miss Mamie Francis, treasurer & secretary; Ada Sommerville, equestiran director; Richard Gordon, supt. canvas; Stumpy Sims, boss hostler; Sam Cross, supt. props. Show opens at Augusta, Georgia. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
1918:
Report has it that California Frank has quit the show business probably for good, having purchased a several hundred acre farm in Colorado. Billboard, August 24, 1918, p. 27.
California Frank Hapley has quit the road for the present. He has a 400 acre stock and grain ranch at Redman, Col. The entire show, stock, equipment, etc., are there and will stay until the opportunity presents itself to take the road again. Billboard, September 28, 1918, p. 72.
California Frank Wild West is to hit the trail again as soon as conditions will permit, but will winter hereafter on California Frank's Diamond D Ranch, near Ridgeway, Colorado. A letter from C. L. Hafley (California Frank), from Ridgeway, Colorado: "We made a great move when we purchased our ranch of 400 acres on the Western slope of Colorado. . . . Billboard, November 9, 1918, p. 54.
1919: The California Frank Combination have left their ranch at Ridgway, Col., for several weeks of fairs and celebrations. They played the Cattlemen's Celebration at Gunnison, Col., July 17, 18 and 19. Little Joe's new mule, Rags, is a scream. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 44.
• Operated as an 11 car show in 1911 by Edward Arlington, California Frank and others. Bandwagon, May-June, 1968, p. 24.
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California Racing Association & Hippodrome - 1878
Charles A. Jones, who has been the leader of the band with "Old" John Robinson's Circus for a year past, informs us that he has been engaged to lead the band with the California Racing Association and American Hippodrome, under the management of C. Reticker(?), which is to start from Grand Rapids, Mich., about May 20. New York Clipper, May 11, 1878, p. 55.
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Cameron's - 1875 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1875
Victoria, the female trapeze performer in Cameron's circus, fell 22 feet at Biddeford, Me., on the 28th, breaking a leg and other injuries. Lowell Daily Courier (Lowell, MA), May 29, 1875, p. 1.
The Oriental Circus and Menagerie will this season be under the management of J. Cameron, with Fred Keeler as general advance agent. Barney Carroll and family, with their ring stock, Mlle. Victoria, trapeze performer, and Jerry Blossom have already been engaged. New York Clipper, February 20, 1875, p. 375. Goes under Cameron's
John C. Myers and Col. McIntire have the sideshow and candy stand with J. Cameron's Oriental Circus and Menagerie the coming season. New York Clipper, February 27, 1875, p. 383.
Dan Sutton of Boston, Mass., has secured the concert privileges with the Oriental Circus and Menagerie, which is organizing at Middletown, Ct. New York Clipper, March 6, 1875, p. 391.
Cameron's Great Oriental Circus and Egyptian Caravan. Proprietors, J. Cameron & Co.; manager J. Cameron; assistant manager, Henry Parker; general agent, _. A. Keller; press agent, R. Fitzgerald; treasurer, J. Bacon; leader of band, Oscar P. Perry; equestrian director, W. Carroll; master of horses, C. E. Cameron. Clowns, Jerry Blossom, Al Miaco. Riders, W. B. Carroll, Chas. Lowery, Willie Carroll, Dolly Varden Carroll, Annie Carroll, . . . Acrobats, leapers and tumblers, Fred Sylvester, Wm. Carroll, Alfred Miaco . . . Menagerie supt., Mons. Duchanese. First exhibition given at New Medford, Ct., May 1. New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, supplement, n.p.n.
Cameron's circus and menagerie made a very attractive street parade this forenoon, witnessed by thousands. The riding of the lion tamer in a cage of lions was an unusual spectacle in the procession. The performances are today only on the North Common. Lowell Daily Courier (Lowell, MA), May 17, 1875, n.p.n.
Victoria, trapeze performer, while performing with Cameron's Oriental Circus at Biddeford, Me., fell and broke her leg, and met with other injuries. New York Clipper, June 5, 1875, p. 79.
Cameron's Oriental Circus has been seized in Halifax, N. S., by creditors from St. John, N. B. The stock, fixtures, cages, etc., have been advertised for sale three different times; but the sale has been stopped or postponed, in consequence of persons in charge of the show stating that they had funds coming to them from New York. Myers & McIntire, the proprietors of the sideshow with the Oriental Circus, which is in the hands of the Sheriff in Halifax, N. S., have gone to Prince Edward Island, to show there, and then they will exhibit in some of the towns in the northern part of New Brunswick. New York Clipper, July 31, 1875, p. 143.
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Cameron & Tubb's North American - 1877
The following people are engaged for the North American Circus the coming season: E. W. Perry, Minnie Perry, W. W. Nichols, Arline Brothers, Luproill Family, Hercules Libby, Kate Partington, and Ada Isaacs, female jester. Sam S. French's cornet band will furnish the music. New York Clipper, March 31, 1877, p. 7.
Aaron McIntyre has secured the privilege with Cameron & Tubb's North American Circus, and he advertises for a little woman and a Punch and Judy and sleight of hand performer, also for curiosities. New York Clipper, April 14, 1877, p. 23.
The American and French Circus, under the management of James V. Cameron and the proprietorship of A. A. Tubbs, gave two performances at Passaic, N.J., May 23, under difficulties. The Sheriff of Passaic County received an order to attach the property immediately on that date, unless a claim of Sears & Co. of New York, amounting to $300, was paid. Upon the representation that the money would be paid, the performances were permitted to continue, but at the conclusion of the evening's entertainment, no money being forthcoming, the Sheriff took possession of the property and held it until the 25th, when matters were settled Some person or persons cut the main guy-ropes while the canvas was being taken down, and a number of persons who were watching the proceedings narrowly escaped from the falling poles. Paterson correspondence, dated May 2d. New York Clipper, June 2, 1877, p. 79.
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Camp's Southern Circus - 1880
Camp's Grand Southern Circus. E. N. Camp, proprietor, Hiram Marks, equestrian director; Sallie Marks, principal rider . . . New York Clipper, September 4, 1880, p. 187.
A call to all parties engaged with the Great Southern Circus. The ladies and gentlemen engaged for the above show will report in Cincinnati at 10 o'clock a.m., September 9. The show includes seventy people in all, and is to begin a tour Sept. 10. E. N. Camp, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, August 28, 1880, pp. 179, 183.
Camp's Grand Southern Circus is to pitch tents for the first time in the First Ward, Cincinnati, O., Sept. 10,and exhibits in Newport, Ky., 11. E. N. Camp is proprietor; Hiram Marks, equestrian director; Sallie Marks, principal rider; and Gus Shaw, clown. New York Clipper, September 4, 1880, p. 187.
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Campa Bros. - 1951 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1951
In 1951 Ben Davenport made a deal with the Campa family to put out a three-ring truck show along the lines of a Mexican circus. The Campas were an equilibristic troupe. The show moved on approximately fifteen trucks. The big top was 90ft. with four 40's; sideshow a 50ft. with four 20's. The show had the elephant "Big Tom." Singh had the lion act and shared top billing with emma Campa Valdez. Tommy Scott had the after-show and Ted Milligan was sideshow manager. Bandwagon, November-December, Vol. 14, No. 6, 1970, p. 26.
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Campbell's - 1870
[Advertisement] Campbell's Caravan & Circus, second annual tour. New Philadelphia, Tuesday, June 7, Uhrichsville, Wednesday, June 8. A full and comrehensive menagerie, and the best circus troupe. New specimens of the animal kingdom . . . Signor Balize, the lion king, will enter the den of lions, tigers and leopards. The animals will be fed in the afternoon, in the presence of the audience. Attentive and well informed keepers constantly in front of the animal dens.
The circus comprises the following talent. Madame Brown, queen of the ring. Little Mary Brown, child equestrian. M'lle Josephine, Parisian equestrienne. Mr. James De Norest, equestrian tumbler and leaper. Burrows & Conklin, gymnasts and acrobats. Sam Stickney Jr., the modern touchstone. James Ward, grotesque clown. John Conklin, the American Hercules. Chas. Burrows, gymnast, etc. Berein Brothers, gymnasts, &c. Also Messrs. Baloit, Buckley, Breeze, Richardson, LeClerg, etc.
Grand street parade will take place daily about 10 a.m. A pageant of oriental grandeur, headed by the Triumphal Chariot, and followed by the long line of massive cages, the elephant, etc. The exhibit will be given under a mammoth three-centre pole water-proof canvas. Dry in wet weather, cool in warm weather, and comfortable in all weather. One ticket admits to both circus and menagerie. 2 exhibitions each day, afternoon and night. Doors open at 1 in the afternoon, and 7 in the evening. Seats for everybody. Canvas brilliantly illuminated at night. Wait for the largest show on earth. Admission 5oc. Children under 10 years, 25c. Just added, the only African eland, or, Horned horse, in America, which can be seen without extra charge. W. H. Gardner, agent. Ohio Democrat (New Philadelphia, OH), May 27, 1870, n.p.n.
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Campbell's - 1878
Wanted, living curiosities to travel with a circus and menagerie, formerly the John O'Brien's Six Shows. Starts from Richmond, Va., about April 1, and travels by railroad. Address Batcheller & Doris, Alegheny House, Philadelphia, Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, March 9, 1878, p. 395.
Campbell's Circus and Menagerie, now organizing in Richmond, Va., will take the road by rail about April 1. Chas. H. Castle is general agent, and Fred Bailey railroad contractor. New York Clipper, March 23, 1878, p. 415.
Nat Davis and James Robinson of O'Brien's Circus left Philadelphia April _ to join their show in Richmond, Va. New York Clipper, April 13, 1878, p. 23.
Campbell's New York and Philadelphia Zoological and Equestrian Institute commenced their traveling season in Richmond, Va., April 15, and exhibited the entire week to fair audiences only. Our correspondent says: "The show will travel by rail, a large number of cars for which were made in this city the past Winter. The company: the Lee Family - Miss Rosa, bareback rider, jugglery and gymnast; Master R. Lee, pad rider and gymnast; Linda Jeal, bareback hurdle rider, slack wire, juggler and rolling globe; Alta Hallett(?), flying rings; F. Robbins, bareback rider; Victorelli and Cardello, horizontal bar and gymnasts; Leopold and Gaston, l'eschelle and gymnast; J. M. Ward, clown and juggler; Jerry Hopper, clown and high stilt performer; W. O. Dale Stevens, Maltese cross and magic-barrel; Harry Cooley and his performing elephant Empress. The menagerie contains some thirty odd cages of animals, also elephants, camels, dromedaries and ponies. They have three band chariots. The whole is under the management of John O'Brien. In the concert party are Bachelder & Doris, proprietors: Harrington and Johnson, Dutch artists and comedians; the Turners - Dick and Sadie - Stevens and Jeal, and Sam Martin. All the privileges are run by O'Brien. The show is billed in Washington, D.C., April 24, 25, 26, 27. New York Clipper, April 27, 1878, p. 39.
Campbell's Menagerie and Circus exhibited in Washington, D.C., April 24, 25, 26, 27, to large business. Our correspondent says: "John Foster is the general manager. The exhibit of animals is fair. The ring performance is the feature of the show. Harry Mack is the ringmaster. Jerry Hopper and James Ward are the clowns. Alta Hallett on the flying rings, Victorelli and Cardello on the horizontal bar, Leopold and Gaston on the high trapeze. Linda Jeal in a juggling act and a dashing hurdle act. Frank Robbins as pad rider, and Wm. O'Dale Stevens in bareback juggling feats are also in the company. Little Rosa Lee's bareback riding is daring and graceful. She also does a juggling act, besides taking her place among the vaulters and ground tumblers, performing all the varied feats they do. She is almost a complete circus in herself. New York Clipper, May 4, 1878, p. 47.
Campbell's Circus and Menagerie lost money in Baltimore, Md., states our correspondent, adding: "During the whole week of their stay there was not a time when over five hundred people attended the show. The bad impression created by their street parade was the main cause of this. The show closed 4 for Frederick City, and then by quick stages to Cincinnati. They will abandon their Southern circuit, and jump for the West." New York Clipper, May 11, 1878, p. 55.
Campbell's New York and Philadelphia Zoological and Equestrian Institute succeeded in drawing fine audiences in St. Louis, Mo., during the week commencing Aug. 19. Our correspondent says that John J. Foster, the business manager of the show, desires it to be known that the establishment is owned by Col. J. F. Campbell of Philadelphia, and not by J. J. O'Brien. Route: DuQuoin, Ill., Aug. 27, Anna 28, Carbondale 29, Centraliea 30, Vandalia 31. New York Clipper, August 31, 1878, p. 183.
Linda Jeal, hurdle rider, and W. O. Dale Stevens, globe juggler, etc., quit Campbell's Circus and Menagerie in St. Louis, Aug. 23(?). A correspondent says: "They were compelled to resort to law in order to obtain posession of their own horse, and properties in the dressing room, which they succeeded in getting in due time, but not without some trouble and at a heavy cost. They joined Anderson & Co.'s show immediately." The Globe Democrat of St. Louis, Mon., in an item referring to the above matter says: "Wm. O'Dale Stevens, the famous juggler and acrobat, lately performing at Campbell's Circus, sued out a writ of replevin yesterday in the Circuit against John O'Brien, proprietor and ___ of said circus, to recover possession of the following property, etc." We have been requested on more than one occasion by persons attached to this circus to deny that John O'Brien had anything to do with it, and the statement was made to us that the show was owned by Col. J. F. Campbell of Philadelphia. New York Clipper, September 7, 1878, p. 191.
[Advertisement] Campbell's Grand Sextuple Combination of Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Consolidated with his New York and Philadelphia Zoological and Equestrian Institute. Coming to Ackley, Iowa, Wednesday, Sept. 25th. 53 zoological palaces. The war elephant, "Empress." A fountain of pure cold water inside the marquee making the atmosphere cool and pleasant. 100 European and American equestrian and acrobatic celebrities.
Miss Linda Jeal, lady hurdle rider. Miss Rosa Lee, equestrienne. Miss Alta Hallette, trapeze artist. Levater Lee, two horse rider. Chas. Orrin, bare-back horseman. Wm. O'Dale Stevens, equilibrist with his spectre cross. 3 great clowns, Messrs. Ward, Hopper and Johnson. 3 vast menageries. Street parade at 10 a.m. Two military bands and several golden chariots. Admission, adults, 50 cents. Children under 9 years, 25 cents. Doors open at 1 and 7 o'clock. Performance commences one hour later. Ackley Enterprise (IA), September 20, 1878, n.p.n.
Mr. Robinson, the agent of Campbell's show, which exhibited here yesterday, informs us that they have had a great deal of bad weather since they have been in Iowa. Their expenses are about six hundred dollars a day, and the receipts have generally been light. At Independence the total receipts were only about $130. At Osage on Monday the company had a good business, and that's about all the good luck they have had. Iowa State Reporter (Waterloo, IA), September 25, 1878, p. 5.
The Campbell Circus and Menagerie has worked very quietly, and made very little talk. The show started from Richmond, Va., early in the Spring. The menagerie was first class, but the performance fell short of what was expected. Several parties have been named as the proprietors, but a well-known Philadelphia showman is supposed to control it. It did fairly, and may close even. New York Clipper, October 19, 1878, p. 244.
• Also see Batcheller & Doris.
• Campbell's New York & Philadelphia was owned by Adam Forepaugh and managed by John V. O'Brien. Thayer's Mudshow and Railers, p. 8.
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Campbell Bros.' - 1900, 1909, 1912, 1936 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1896-1912, 1920-22, 1923, 1930
• Information on the 1897 Campbell Bros. show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1997, Vol. 41, No. 4, pp. 41-42.
• Information on the 1898 Campbell Bros. show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1998, Vol. 42, No. 4, pp. 38-39.
1900: Opened at Fairbury, Nebraska, April 26. "It is a neat two-ring show, and it promises to have its best season yet this year." Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6.
1900: Was touring Colorado and Utah in May. Billboard, June 9, 1900, p. 5.
• An article on the 1908 Campbell Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1981, Vol. 25, No. 6, pp. 30-35.
1909: Campbell Bros.' Consolidated Shows. Campbell Bros., props. & mgrs.; A. O. Campbell, gen. agt.; A. H. Barkley (Berkley?), R. R. contractor; Herman Q. Smith, dir. of publicity; S. F. Ward, local contractor; Chas. Turner, special agt.; Ed. Alles, checker-up; Col. J. C. O'Brion, mgr. side show; Ed. Campbell, treas.; W. E. Bailey, equestrian dir.; Harry Lampkin, mgr. commissary dept.; Darwin C. Hawn, supt. of transportation; Johnnie Mack, supt. of canvas; Henry Farbacher, supt. of animals; Roy Austin, supt. of elephants; W. P. Campbell, supt. of reserved seat tickets; Billy Cavanaugh supt. of props.; Henry Gilbertson, supt. of privileges; Dad Johnson, supt. of stock; Fred McIntosh and H. Q. Smith, press agts. Roster of Advance Car No. 1: Cone Copa, car mgr.; Roy Leonard, boss billposter; Wm. Lockard, V. E. Sweeney, Chas. Manrose, Pete Adkins, Wm. McHatton, E. E. Stevenson, Wm. Waits, R. Messmer, Fred Hodgkiss, and Clyde Wilson, billposters; Wm. McElroy, paste maker; Bert Carleton and Norval Howard, lithographers; Jasper Kirk and Ed. Rohr, banners; Chas. Forbes, program man; Rudolph Kleiner, cook. Roster Advance Car No. 2: Emory Profitt(?), mgr.; E. E. Millhollin, boss billposter; Chas. Strong, Karl Knox, J. C. Caldwell, A. E. Johnson and E. Stratton, billposters; J. A. Peterson, lithographer; H. Kuh, banner man; Geo. Armour, program man; Chas. McGurk, cook. Opposition Brigade: Herman Q. Smith in charge; William Rutzata, Milo McIntire, J. M. Dobinson, Leo Sullivan, F. D. Seston, Billy Ward, W. L. Reynolds and E. F. McDonald. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1912:
Campbell Bros.' Show - Campbell Bros., props.; Fred Hatfield, mgr.; Ed. Campbell, treas.; Wm. B. Vogt, auditor; A. G. Campbell, general agent; A. H. Barkley, railroad contractor; P. M. Dalby, local contractor; P. M. Campbell, special agent and contracting press agent; E. D. Proffit, advance press agent; Ed. R. Stanley, excursion agent; Lew Nichols, mgr. side show; Dan Leon, equestrian director; Lee/Les(?) Greer, general supt.; Frank Mutton, supt. privileges; H. W. Wingert, musical director; W. P. Campbell, supt. reserved seat tickets; O. C. Kretzer, supt. canvas; Owen Harney, trainmaster; R. G. (Dad) Johnson, boss hostler; June Smith, supt. commissary dept.; Wm. Bently, supt. lights; Jack Brown, supt. properties; Fred Stone, supt. ring stock; W. H. Harper and Frank Copeland, supt. stock; James Greer, supt. working crew; Henry Pullman, twenty-four-hour agent; Arthur Green, supt. elephants; Frank Slough, boss carpenter; Wm. Hansen, supt. animals; John Miller, blacksmith; Emory D. Proffitt, mgr. advertising car No. 1; P. M. Dalby, mgr. advertising car No. 2; Wm. P. Campbell, legal adjuster; Lew Nichols and Claud Coley, announcers. Show opens at Beaumont, Tex., March 30. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
Campbell Bros. Great Consolidated Shows was forced to close in Fairbury, Neb., August 1912, when mortage for $26,000 was not met. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
1936: Article on the 1936 Campbell Bros.' advertising car is online in Bandwagon, Christmas 1954 (scroll down).
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H. W. Campbell's Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1919-1921
H. W. Campbell is the authority for the statement that his shows next season will be a circus and wild animal exhibition. It is well known that he has long cherished a desire to turn his carnival into a circus, and for several years has been buying property that could easily be converted to circus usefulness. It was intended to make the change in 1915, but the war upset his plans. Billboard, April 26, 1919, p. 43.
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W. P. Campbell's - 1916, 1918-19
1916:
Campbell Show. F. G. Mutton and Bert and W. P. Campbell, proprietors; W. P. Campbell, manager; Frank Mutton, asst. manager; Bert Campbell, treasurer; F. G. Mutton, secretary; Frank Mutton, auditor; Dock Filley, general agent; Mrs. P. M. Dalby, contracting press agent; P. M. Dalby, manager sideshow; Harry B. Bray, equestrian director; Frank Mutton, general supt.; Mrs. W. P. Campbell, supt. privileges; Harry Phillips, musical director; Fred Campbell, supt. reserved seat tickets; Wm. Schmit, boss hostler; Wm. Mitchell, supt. lights; Henry Farate, supt. ring stock; Dock Filley, manager advance car No. 1; George Haner, manager advance car No. 2; twenty wagons and automobiles show. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
1918:
The Tom Heath Family has joined the Campbell Circus, and is now at Drummond, Ok., the winter quarters of the show. Tom will have the management of the sideshow. Billboard, March 16, 1918, p. 29.
Winter quarters, 1918. Campbell's Circus. W. P. Campbell, proprietor; Drummond, Okla. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 124.
Drummond, Ok., April 18. S. V. Campbell will be general and contracting agent of the Campbell Circus, assisted by two billposters, and there will be a box brigade in the way of an automobile, which will follow up and bill the country thoroughly. Tom Heath will have charge of the sideshow and has a musical act, and illusion, sleight-of-hand, mind reading, club swinging, and Princess Bessie, the midget. Harry Busenbark has the candy stands and novelty concessions. Frank Mutton will have charge of the Cabaret Show, with twelve girls and an orchestra. The big show will be presided over by Chas. Barnett, assisted by Doc Filley. The line-up: the Crane Family of four people; the Rhoades Family of three, gymnasts, acrobats and wire artists; Charles Dryden, three high school hoses and troupe of Shetland ponies, a troupe of trained dogs and riding monkeys, the white posing horses, a troupe of seven ladies in living statuary acts. A number of clowns, and as a special feature, Minnie Fisher's slide for life by her teeth, besides a human butterfly act. Billboard, April 27, 1918, p. 30.
Route, Campbell Show: Panama, Ok., Spiro 16; Gans 17; Marble City 18; Stillwell 20. Billboard, May 18, 1918, p. 55.
Campbell's Circus gave two performances to packed tents at Kiowa, Ok., June 1. Billboard, June 22, 1918, p. 27.
2-Car Show for sale. On account of patriotic duties and other reasons, we have closed our two-car circus and will sell, trade or lease any part, or as a whole. 70 ft. diner and sleeper combined, fully equipped with range, cooking utensils and bedding, and one 64 ft. baggage car. A troupe of six Shetland ponies, well broke; one bucking mule, two white posing and high school horses; a sorrel thoroughbred high school performer, a riding monk, a piano, a 4-octave Una-Fon, band uniforms, statuary , wigs, costumes and tights and a revolving table. Address W. P. Campbell, Meno, Oklahoma. [Advertisement] Billboard, October 26, 1918, p. 27.
1919:
The Woody Family Band has signed for the summer with the W. P. Campbell Circus. Fred Melvis will have charge and act as leader. Master Billie Woody is playing baritone. Poleta Woody alto and Robert Woody tuba. Ira Shamres, formerly bass drummer and comedian with this organization, has been confined at the tuberculosis hospital in Webb City, Mo. Billboard, February 22, 1919, p. 31.
The Woody Troupe and Family Band will not be with the Campbell Shows as formerly stated, but instead have decided to join Boone's Mexican Ranch Show for the season. Billboard, May 17, 1919, p. 37.
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M. Campbell - 1890
Roster of Dr. M. Campbell's Great American Circus: Dr. M. Campbell, proprietor and manager . . . Frank Hill, advance agent . . . Gillman Brothers; Orton Brothers; Lavelle(?) Brothers . . . Prof. Geo. Dunbar; La Vant Family . . . Harry Williams; Hattie Dunbar . . . J. D. Perkins. This show opened May 22(?) and will travel through Michigan, Ohio and Pennsylvania. New York Clipper, May 31, 1890, p. 183.
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Campbell, Bailey & Hutchinson - 1921
• Show opened the season early in April, 1921, at Samson, Alabama. Bandwagon, January, 1947, n.p.n.
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Camp's Southern Circus - 1880
Wanted, performers for the Grand Southern Circus. Boss canvasman wanted; also an advance agent. Travel by steamboat. Season from Sept. 11 to March 1, 1881. Address E. N. Camp, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, July 10, 1880, p. 128.
For the Grand Southern Circus, riders, musicians, etc., are wanted; also attractions for the sideshow. See E. N. Camp's card. The candy privileges are for sale. New York Clipper, July 24, 1880, p. 139.
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Canada Frank's - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1904-09
Canada Frank's Show: F. M. Myers, proprietor; Bert Myers, manager; Joe Dokes, general agent; Wm. McQuillen, R. R. contractor; Tom Henry, local contractor; John Allen, special agent; B. M. Melvin, manager side show. Roster advance car No. 1: Ernest Holingreen, Lew Emmett, Jas. Jackson, Will Quigley and Joe Anderson, billposters. Jacob Dolliver, lithographer; George Anderson and Lew Orton, cooks. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
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Cancie Bros. - 1907, 1911 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1906-07
1907:
Cancie Bros.' Union Shows will open the season May 1. The circus will carry a large menagerie, using five cars. The winter quarters are at Cranston, Rhode Island. Frank E. Tracy is general agent. Variety, February 2, 1907, p. 9.
John White's trained animals have been engaged as a special feature with the Cancie Brothers Union Shows for the season of 1907. The Great Motion, the "man who laughs at strangulation," will be introduced as an exclusive outside free attraction, his Hangman's Slide for Life being considered one of tbe most realistic exploits of human daring ever attempted. Billboard, March 2, 1907, p. 26.
Cancie Brothers' United Shows signed the agreement with the Alliance. Their advance department will employ about fifteen billposters, divided in two brigades. Frank E. Tracy will be general agent, Mike Shone, press agent, and John E. Garvey, special agent. In the side show will be featured King Cole, the Great Hall, Gavin, physical culture; Margie, transparent girl; Braggs, singing monkey; Madam Cameron's den of reptiles, and others. For the big show is the Les Troupe Zaritski, eight lady and gentlemen acrobats, including Little Alexis. Billboard, March 30, 1907, p. 32.
1911:
The N. Harry Cancie's Famous Shows will open in Latrobe, Pennsylvania, May 11. There will be thirty-two people with the show, including a band of eight pieces, under the leadership of Prof. Paul Houck. The veteran "Ike" McCreary, with five billposters will take care of the advance. Mr. Cancie will be manager, and "Curly" Baker will have charge of the concessions, assisted by Dudle Kirchner. Tom Duffy will have charge of the stock. Germany Fry is boss canvasman, Al Walker will run the sideshow, introducing his feature illusions; Max Meyer has been engaged to do his strong man at, and pull against four horses. Cliff Welch and Henry Link, acrobats and comedians, will do their comedy bar act in the big show. Billboard, April 29, 1911, p. 9.
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Candyland Dog & Pony Circus - 1984
The show was headed by Terrell Jacobs Jr. ("Punch"). It played mall dates in Washington in May and later was a free attraction at the fair in Walla Walla. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 15.
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Canfield Family Circus - 2000
The show played a full season in 2000, spending most of its tour in California. Bandwagon, March-April, 2001, p. 16.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 2000.
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Capell Bros. - 1951-52
1951:
July 5 will be circus day for Dickinson county, when the Capell Bros., three-ring show opens for a one-day stand at the Club Congress grounds west of Spirit lake. Feeding of 150 wild animals will begin at 9:30 a. m. Thursday. These include elephants, camels, water buffalo, llama, pumas, lions, tigers, leopards, bears, monkeys, and a polar bear and horses, dogs, and ponies. One of four traveling circuses out of Oklahoma, Capell Bros. is transported on 25 trucks, and 25 cars and trailers. In all, the show includes 150 personel, with 50 performers, and 150 animals. The show includes a calliope, and a concert band under the "big top." Spirit Lake Beacon (Spirit Lake, IA), June 28, 1951, p. 8 (sec. 2).
1952:
A 3-ring circus, the 111 person Capell Bros. show arrived in Great Bend from Larned. The young Norma Capell provides some of the frou-frou for the circus. Complete with side show attractions featuring an 11-year old chimpanzee and other wild animals. Doc Capell is owner of the attraction, with winter quarters at McAllister, Oklahoma. The groupe left winter quarters March 17. Previous to that it had shown at state and county fairs in the South. Great Bend Daily Tribune (Great Bend, KS), April 28, 1952, p. 1.
The Capell Wild Animal circus will be at Salina August 4, presented in three rings and two stages. In addition to internationally-known circus performers, an array of animals, including monkeys and elephants, will be shown. . . . Bouncing Bill Belton, trampoline; Norma Jean, performing elephants; Monahans, acrobats, Miss Dorothy, canine stars; Roger Allen, flying trapeze; Margo and her Hollywood aerial ballet. Clowns, jugglers, aerialists, liberty horses. Big double length menagerie. Salina Journal (Salina, KS), July 27, 1952, p. 10.
Unloading of the 3-ring Capell Brothers Wild Animal Circus will take place Monday morning and C. B. Briggs, contracting agent, says the public is invited to go to the fairgrounds to see the circus set up its tents. The animals and circus troupe travel in 20 double length semi-trucks and trailers. A feature of the menagerie is "Kongo," a giant ape from Africa. There is also a tiny baby monkey. . . . Capell Brothers circus is one of the few remaining shows to operate under an original title. It is owned and operated by H. N. (Doc) Capell, his wife, and their three sons, Jack, Bob and Bill. Emporia Weekly Gazette (Emporia, KS), July 31, 1952, p. 2.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1949-1953.
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Cannon's - 1891
On the road, circuses: Cannon's Big, Fayetteville NC Nov 2-7, Augusta, Ga. 9-14. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 589.
On the road, circuses: Cannon's Big, Augusta Ga. Nov 11, 12, Birmingham, Ala. 14-16, Columbus Ga. ___. New York Clipper, November 14, 1891, p. 605.
On the road, circuses: Cannon's Big, Columbus, Ga. Nov 1?, . . . Raleigh N.C. __. New York Clipper, November 21, 1891, p. 621.
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Card Bros. Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1935-36
• An article on the Card Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 5, pp. 17-21.
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Cardello & Vidella's - 1890
Wanted, for Cardello & Vidella's Circus, leapers and tumblers, a lady to do rings or single trapeze act; also a good triple brother act, and people in all branches of circus business. Address Cardello & Vidella, Palace Theatre, Kansas City, Mo. Season opens June 1. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 158.
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Carden-Johnson Circus - 1980
• In 1980 the show operated two units, Blue and White. The tour began At Milwaukee, Wisconsin, February 19-24. In May one unit moved into Canada, using the title Clyde Bros. Circus. In August, George Carden, one of the owners, was reported to have left the show. Bandwagon, January-February, 1981, p. 13.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1969-1978, Larry Carden & Don Johnson, owners.
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Carden International Circus - 1982, 1984-87
1982: The show had two units, Red and Blue, out in 1982. Larry Carden managed the Red unit that opened in Milwaukee in February. George Carden managed the Blue unit that toured Canada in May and June, and closed in Hammond, Indiana in late November. A third unit was being framed at the Willard, Missouri winter quarters. Bandwagon, January-February, 1983, p. 29.
1984: The show played Shrine and fair dates in 1984, opening in Muscogee, Oklahoma early in February. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 13.
1985: There were two units out in 1985, playing under Shrine auspices and other sponsors. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 12.
1986: The show occasionally had two units out, and also produced a number of Shrine dates. Most of the season was spent west of the Mississippi River. They performed as an arena troupe, a grandstand show and under canvas. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 13.
1987: The show had as many as three units out in 1987, mostly under Shrine auspices. The show was titled John Jordan's All American Circus during a tour of California. Bandwagon, January-February, 1988, p. 13.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1980-89.
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Old Carey's - 1862-64 (V. Cary) show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1862
• 1862: online at Clipper, August 16 (scroll down)
• 1863: online at Clipper, May 23 (scroll down)
1864:
Old Cary's Great World Circus. Fifty performers and three distinguished clowns in the circle, will exhibit on the ground near Judge Brackenridge's residence, Calhoun St., Wednesday evening, and Thursday afternoon and evening, May 18th & 19th. Admission 50 cents, children under 10 years 25 cents. Dawson's Fort Wayne Daily Times (IN), May 16, 1864, n.p.n.
• 1864. Old Cary's Great World Circus has been having a very successful tour this season, starting from Little Rock, Arkansas, and going through Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan. They are traveling by railroad and boat. The company: Barney Carroll, Joe Tinkham, Wm. Sparks, Leslie May, J. Kanan, the Bliss Family, V. Cary, Yankee Miller, Madame Carroll and Carrie Cary. The orchestra is lead by Ned Straight; master of circus, Charlie Straight. The sideshow consists of Susie, Julie and Annie Jackson, Belle Cary and Master George. New York Clipper, November 11, 1911, p. 13.
• 1864. Old Cary's Great World Circus has been making a tour through Michigan and Wisconsin. LaCrosse was the stand August 6. New York Clipper, November 18, 1911, n.p.n.
• 1864: online at Clipper, March 19, Clipper, May 7, Clipper, August 13 (scroll down)
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Carey Bros. - 1912 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1913
Carey Bros.' Big Shows now booking attractions for season 1912. F. D. Corey, mgr.; E. D. Corey, gen. agt. Address G. M. Corey, Benton Harbor, Mich. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 2, 1912, p. 47.
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Carl Bros. Circus
• An article on the 1925 Carl Bros. Circus, owner Edward P. Carl, is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1998, Vol. 42, No. 6, pp. 38-41.
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Carlin Bros., 1910, from Conover collection, Album #19, Set #711, File #M-12.
Originally Mable Mack gave the photo to Marion Organ in 1949, before the Organ collection went to the Conover collection.
Carlin Bros. Circus - 1909
Carlin Bros. Big Shows, Millbrook, August 21. The trained animal exhibition to form part of these shows is a remarkable exhibition. As a special feature of the trained animal department, Carlin Bros. are presenting a trained American buffalo. Grand free street parade at noon. Millbrook Mirror and Round Table (Millbrook, NY), August 20, 1909, n.p.n.
Carlin Bros. New Modern Shows. Everything is in readiness for the opening date, May 8. One of the features of our parade this season will be a decorated sixty horse-power touring automobile. In addition it will also be used to carry the executive staff over the road. The roster: Carlin Brothers, equal owners; F. M. Carlin, general manager; R. F. Carlin, treasurer; Cortland R. Harris, general agent; Chas. Harris, superintendent of stock; Ed Hopkins, superintendent of canvas; Peter King, asst. supt. of canvas; Prof. John E. Burtine, equestrian director; Prof. H. J. Lamblase, director of music; Horace Gross, steward, and W. J. Gilmore, manager of annex. The latest bookings for the big show: Prof. Lyman H. Dunn's Congress of Trained Animals; the Cowden Trio, aerialists; Chas. Hilderra, contortion and Roman rings; Fleur and Floreate, breakaway ladder and bars; Horace Laird, clown; Mlle. Clenette, menage act; Dunn and Hart, comedy wire and clowns; Joe Barrett, juggling and perch; and the Four Flying Flowers. Billboard, April 17, 1909, p. 20.
Carlin Bros.' New Modern Shows want few more big show acts; all must do two or more turns. Sister team the doubles concert. Sideshow people of all kinds. Workingmen in all departments. Show opens near Philadelphia, Pa., May 8. Rehearsals start at winterquarters, May 4. Cook house open May 1. Address 1316 S. 64th Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Winterquarters, 64th and Grays Ave., West Philadelphia, Pa. P.S. Balloons, whips and few other privileges to let. Billboard, April 24, 1909, p. 39.
The Carlin Brothers' circus outfit had an attachment placed on it a short time ago by Charles Harris and it will be sold under sheriff's sale next Monday. [May be Schuylerville, NY news.] Daily Saratogian (Saratoga, NY), August 25, 1909, n.p.n.
• Winter quarters, 1908-09, 1910, 1914. Carlin Bros.' New Modern Shows, 1316 S. 64th st., Philadelphia, Pa. Billboard, December 26, 1908, p. 43; February 13, 1909, p. 49; December 17, 1910, p. 1096; March 14, 1914, p. 11.
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Carlisle's; Carlisle & Morris - 1891
Wanted, for the Carlisle Shows, a strong outside attraction; also an original feature in concert. Address Wm. Carlisle, 1,201 Patterson Avenue, Baltimore, Md. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 325.
Carlisle & Morris' Circus, in its eighth season, opens at Baltimore, Md. Aug. __. . . . New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
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R. C. Carlisle's - 1895
Roster of Prof. R. C. Carlisle's No. 1 Co. Prof. R. C. Carlisle, proprietor and manager; Adelaide Carlisle, equestrienne; Flora Leonard, juggling on the slack wire; Nellie Leonard, single flying trapeze; Prof. R. C. Carlisle's troupe of trained dogs; Leonard and Hart, triple horizontal bars and breakaway ladder perch act; Wichita Jack and Bridle Bill, cowboys. New York Clipper, October 12, 1895, p. 505.
Prof. R. C. Carlisle has closed his show, which has been playing fair datest as a special attraction. Prof. Carlisle will continue with his dog show all Winter. New York Clipper, November 2, 1895, p. 553.
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Carlisle's Wild West - 1909, 1911, 1914, 1916-19, 1920 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1921
1900: It appears that his wild west show (various titles) of 1909-1920 carried a Wichita Jack which in 1916 was refered to as Wichita Jack Carlisle. Wichita Jack was probably his performance name. - Postcard photo and information courtesy Chuck Finley
1902: Prof. R. C. Carlisle, formerly manager of Carlisle's Historical Wild West in America, and who was forage agent last season for Barnum & Bailey's Circus in Europe, was re-engaged in Paris, France, as general superintendent during the absence of Frank Hyatt. Billboard, March 8, 1902
1909:
Carlisle's Historical Wild West and Open Air Amusement Co.: R. C. Carlisle, proprietor and manager; L. Clay, secretary; L. A. Bartlett, treasurer; H. R. Carlisle, general agent; Jack Dingwall, press agent; Wichita Jack, equestrian director and chief of cowboys; Fred Scott, supt. of stock; Joe Caset, supt. of canvas; J. O'Neil, supt. of privileges; F. Fish, manager commissary dept. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
Carlisle's Historical Wild West has closed a contract with a park near New York City, where it will exhibit during the entire Summer season. New York Dramatic Mirror, May 1, 1909, p. 14.
1911: Carlisle's Wild West. R. C. Carlisle, proprietor & manager; Harry Jentzer, special agent; Al. Marentette, manager sideshow; Wichita Jack, arena director; Prof. Lagaro, musical director; H. McCleary, supt. canvas; F. Scott, boss hostler; E. A. Carlisle, supt. commissary dept.; E. A. Neuman, supt. lights; Jos. Hayes, supt. properties; Joe McCullough, supt. working crew. Show opened at Leavenworth, Kansas, April 10. Billboard, April 29, 1911, p. 60.
1914: Carlisle's Wild West. L. Carlisle, proprietor, treasurer & press agent; R. C. Carlisle, manager; Charley ___, manager sideshow; Wichita Jack, arena director; Adam Schrimpf, general supt.; Prof. A. Roberti, musical director; S. Adams, supt. canvas; Charley Mitchell, boss hostler; Billy Hart, supt. lights; Jas. Leonard, announcer. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
1916: Carlisle's Wild West & Frontier Days Exhibition. R. C. Carlisle, manager; L. Carlisle, treasurer; L. D. Mackintosh, secretary & ticket seller; Wichita Jack Carlisle, arena director; Prof. Verns [Verna?], musical director; Harry Hamlin, supt. canvas; John H. Ruben, boss hostler; Chas. Howard, camp steward; Wm. Brooks, supt. lights; James Barton, supt. props; Roy Fleming, supt. ring stock; George Williams, announcer. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
1917: Carlisle’s Frontier Wild West - Carlisle’s Outdoor Amusement Co., props.; R. C. Carlisle, mgr.; L. Carlisle, asst. mgr. and press agt. back with show; L. D. Mackintosh, treas. and secy.; Wichita Jack, arena dir.; Prof. Verno, musical dir.; Shorty Adams, supt. canvas; John Ruben, boss hostler; Wm. Brooks, supt. lights; James Barton, supt. props.; Roy Fleming, supt. ring stock; Chas. Howard, camp steward; Geo. Williams, announcer. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
1918:
Winter quarters. Carlisle's Wild West Show, R. C. Carlisle, proprietor; Troy, Ala. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
Winter quarters, 1918. Carlisle's Wild West Show. R. C. Carlisle, manager; So. Cairo, N.Y. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 124.
1919: With Carlisle's Wild West this season: James Craig; James Pidcock, break rider, and Belle Lynch, high school rider, both fourth season with the Carlisle outfit; Jack Larkins, trick rider. Billboard, May 10, 1919, p. 40.
1920: Carlisle's Frontier Wild West Show: L. Carlisle, proprietor, treasurer and secretary; R. C. Carlisle, manager, railroad contractor, press agent; Harry Jentzer, general agent; Jim Henderson, manager side show; Wichita Jack, equestrian director; Jim Pidcock, general supt.; E. Jennings, supt. privileges; Carl Spencer, musical director; L. Clay, supt. reserved seat tickets; Claude Phillips, supt. canvas; Tommy Keenan, trainmaster; James Craig, boss hostler; Charles Emerson, supt. lights; Adam Schrimp, supt. props.; Fred Scott, announcer. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
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Carlo Bros. - 1883-84, 1888
1883:
Carlo Brothers' Circus began a season in Georgetown, British Guiana, Aug. 24(?). The chief performers are Master Harry and Miss Henriqueta Carlo; the Carlo Brothers, Frederick and George; M. Clark, Frank Brown (clown), Mlle. Amelia and Addie Austin. New York Clipper, October 6, 1883, p. 478.
1884:
Addie Austin is with Carlo Bros.' Circus in South America. New York Clipper, July 19, 1884, p. 286.
1888:
Bert Willison, writing from Cordoba, S.A., Dec. 15, says: "I am in advance of Carlo Bros.' Show. We will closed a five month season in Buenos Ayers. We spread our new pole canvas at Rosario, Nov. 5. Our show includes Geo. and Fred Carlo, managers; Mlle. Amelia, Addied Austin, Frank Brown (clown) . . . Harton Bros., Chas. Roy, John Bridges and Harry Carlo, with plenty of circus stock." New York Clipper, February 11, 1888, p. 768.
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George Carlo's Circus - 1885
George Carlo's Circus has been playing to fair business through Brazil. New York Clipper, November 7, 1885, p. 532.
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Carlos' Dog & Pony Show - 1919 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1919
Carlos' Dog & Pony Show has sailed on the S. S. LaPlace for South America. Mr. Carlos is taking two animal acts, and has an engagement for one year to tour Central and South America. His first stop will be Buenos Aires. Billboard, April 19, 1919, p. 80.
Carlos Dog and Pony Show recently finished a sixteen weeks' engagement at the Casino Theater, Buenos Aires. The act is engaged for another sixteen weeks to play the Japanese Park. Billboard, December 6, 1919, p. 56.
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Carlos Society circus - 1938
Captain Charles Carlos, who brings his famous Carlos Society circus to the Niagara County fair for performances all next week, is not only one of the world's outstanding animal trainers but an internationally known performer and creator of circus devices and paraphernalia. Born in Sweden of parents who themselves followed the pursuit of the tanbark, sawdust and spangles, young Charles came in contact with animals, clowns and acrobats at a very tender age. Following numerous successes in Europe, he came to the United States more than 45 years ago and a few years later perfected the Society circus, consisting of ponies, dogs, leaping greyhounds, comedy mules and the like by which his name was to become indelible. From 1884 to 1891 his attractions appeared with European circuses. For eight years he was the featured attraction with a Mexican circus, for one year with a South American show and for a period of more than ten years with American circuses. For three straight years, 1904 to 1906, he appeared with Barnum and Bailey circus. In Sweden he was an acrobat, contortionist and clown, and in-between times did pantomime, leaps over elephants, didos on the flying trapeze, tight-rope walking, juggling, equilisbristics, rapid-fire tumbling, head balancing and, in fact, everything in the circus. One of the laugh-provoking bits he created in an early act in vaudeville was with dogs and ponies — and a goat, probably one of the most difficult animals to train. Union-Sun and Journal (Lockport, NY), August 4, 1938, p. 3.
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Great Carmo Circus - early 1930s (England)
• See article on this show, online in Bandwagon, Sep-Oct 1959.
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Circus Carol
• Formerly Rudy Bros., this show was out in 1977-78. Bandwagon, March-April, 1978, p. 35; January-February, 1979, p. 20.
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Carr & Boyle - 1893 (possibly Cary & Boyle) Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1895
Herr Von Litz has sold his interest in his one ring shows to Joseph Boyle. It will be known as Cary & Boyle's Big Twenty-five Cent Show. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
On the road, circuses: Carr & Boyle's . . . Sligo, PA 21 . . . Parker's Landing 23, Monerra 24, East Brady 25. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 379.
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J. M. Carrington's - 1874-75
1874:
Carrington & Co.'s Southern Aggregation and Olympic Pavilion Show will be put on the road about July 1, 1874, for an extended tour, by wagons. Wanted, a second hand outfit for seats, also centre poles for 110ft. round top canvas; also a band wagon, bill wagon and other wagons for a band of musicians, both brass and string. Performers in all branches of the profession. An advance agent. Sideshow and other privileges to let. C. Hamilton Davis, manager; J. M. Carrington & Co., proprietors. Party with cash can obtain an interest.
J. M. Carrington & Co.'s Great Southern Aggregation and Olympic Pavilion Show. Wanted immediately, lady ascensionist to do outside ascention on a slack wire or rope slide, also two female song and dance artists, and two Dutch comedians for concert. This show will be put on the road in a few weeks for an extended tour through Virginia, Maryland and North Carolina. C. Hamilton Davis, manager, Revere House, New York, June 6 to 10. New York Clipper, June 6, 1874, p. 79.
J. M. Carnetton's [sic] Great Southern Aggregation showed at Blacke and White's, Va., July 14, Laurenceville 15. The company, which travels by wagons, includes Emil Goroux, juggler and barrel performer; Lew Temple, clown; John Rivers and his trained dogs; Mr. and Mrs. Bushnell; the Varona Brothers and the Morris Brothers. New York Clipper, July 25, 1874, p. 134.
J. M. Carrington's Great Southern Aggregation and Olympic Pavilion Show, now touring Southern Virginia. Wanted immediately, contortionist, song-and-dance lady, two bar performers, also to leap and tumble, and a clown. Four months' engagment given. Also wanted, party with performing dogs. Also some party owning a balloon. C. Hamilton Daivs, Manager. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, July 25, 1874, p. 136.
George Fields has joined the Great Southern Museum and Menagerie as general advertising agent. New York Clipper, May 30, 1874, p. 71.
The Great Southern Circus and Menagerie exhibited at Richmond, Va., May 25, 26. Our correspondent under date of May 30, remarks: " . . . Miss Jennie Turnour, trapeze, juggler and slack wire peformer, the Sebastian Family, Liza, Josephine and Romeo, were excellent. Jack Lawton, Gus Shaw and W. Burdeau, Happy Jack were the clowns. Scott and Ryan, gymnasts, and B. Saunders, contortionist, also gave satisfaction. J. D. Sweet, proprietor of the privileges attached to the Great Southern, and Mde. Sebastian, equestrienne of the same, were married at Ford's Hotel, May 25. . . . The Sebastian Family will hereafter be professionally known as the Sweet Family." New York Clipper, June 6, 1874, p. 79.
J. M. Carrington's Great Southern Circus performed at Culpepper, C. H., Va., Aug. 15. Billy Manson recently joined the show as an advance agent. New York Clipper, August 22, 1874, p. 167.
At Hagerstown, Maryland the "Southern Circus and Menagerie" came to that place upon a freight train the other day, and as the proprietors could not pay the charges for transportation, the cars were seized by the agent and switched off upon a siding, where they have remained ever since. Upon the railway agent, Mr. Way, devolves the duty of feeing the elephants, tigers, hyenas and boa-constrictors. Steuvenville Daily Herald (OH), September 10, 1874, p. 1.
J. M. Carrington's Southern Show. The Kincade Family, Mlle. Josephine De Vanler [Vanier?], and Fred and Mlle. Costello recently joined the company. New York Clipper, October 24, 1874, p. 239.
Carrington's Great Southern Aggregation is billed at Danville, Va., Nov. 3, 4, 5. New York Clipper, November 7, 1874, p. 255.
1875:
Col. J. M. Carrington's Great Southern Pavilion Show closed their season at Halifax Courthouse, Va. (winter quarters), after a successful tour of 29(?) weeks, having traveled by wagons nearly 3,500 miles, making a circuit through Virginia, Maryland, West Virginia, North and South Carolina, with John C. Rivers of New Orleans treasurer. This show will be put on the road again on or about April _. A portion of the company consists of Kingcade Family, Mons. Goroux, the Livingston Brothers, Geo. Richards, O'Brien and Farron, William Andrews and others. Circus riders, tumblers, acrobats, specialties, etc., are wanted, and the candy, sideshow, box and other privileges and pavilion concerts are to rent. New York Clipper, January 30, 1875, p. 351.
Col. J. M. Carrington's Great Southern Circus will start on the road from Halifax, C. H., Va., about April 15. Among the performers already engaged are J. B. Sanders, Millie and Fred Costello, Stephens and Cardell, John C. Rivers, Thomas Martin, John Fallon and William Hoyt. J. C. Rivers and Harry Hensley have the candy stand, J. L. Breese the concert, and Brown & Gleason the other privileges. George Clark will be general agent, G. W. Parker, programmer, J. L. Breese, treasurer, and Thomas Defee(?), ringmaster. New York Clipper, March 20, 1875, p. 407.
Carrington's Great Southern Circus. Proprietor and manager, J. M. Carrington; assistant manager, J. Rivers; general agent, Geo. Clark. Clowns, Rivers and Hoyt. Riders, Rivers and Costello. Two tents used. . . . Winter quarters, Halifax C. H., Va. New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, supplement, n.p.n.
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Carroll's European Circus - 1882
Hiram Marks and family, who opened the season with Maybury, Pullman & Hamilton's Circus, have closed with that show to go with Carroll's European Circus, which starts out of St. Louis, May 3. New York Clipper, April 22, 1882, p. 76.
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Barney Carroll's - 1889
Barney Carroll's New York Circus opened at Thirteenth Street and Fourth Avenue, this city [New York]. The company includes Fannie Francis, Wm. O'Dell, John Batchellor, Millie Alma, the Three Ronaldos, Annie Carroll and Lew Snow. It is an old time one-ring circus under canvas. Executive staff: Marks & Shine(?), proprietors; W. Dulany, business manager and W. H. Carroll, ring master. The tent is owned by "Doc" Healy. New York Clipper, June 8, 1889, p. 208.
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Carson & Barnes - 1957-1963, 1965-68, 1974 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1957-1963, 1965-
• Article on the 1963 Carson & Barnes Circus is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1963 (scroll down or use find).
Brief Information on this show, 1957-1963, 1965-68, is online in "High Grass and Miller Magic," in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1969 (scroll down or use find).
1974: D. R. "Dorey" Miller, president and executive director; Ted Bowman, general manager; Ty Jeffrey, band leader; Ken Ikert, elephant boss; James "Dutch" Crawford, equestrian director; Don Carr, trainer. Show had 23 elephants, an eight piece band, and one of the features were the Flying Meteors. Southern Sawdust, November, 1974, p. 19; February, 1975, p. 10
• An article on the 1954-56 Tex Carson show and the 1957-1962 Carson & Barnes show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1999, Vol. 43, No. 4, pp. 4-20.
• An article on the 1963-69 Carson & Barnes show is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1999, Vol. 43, No. 5, pp. 16-33.
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Kit Carson Buffalo Ranch Wild West - 1912-13 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-14
• Article on the 1912 show, online in Bandwagon, February 1944
1913: Kit Carson Buffalo Ranch Wild West Show - Thos. F. Wiedemann, proprietor; W. W. Damron, assistant manager; C. H. Parker, treasurer; Joe C. Donahue, general agent; Ed. L. Brennan, railroad contractor; Wm. J. Lester, local contractor; Chas. W. King, contracting press agent; Jas. H. Donahue, press agent back with show; Wm. Wirt Damron, sideshow manager; Jas. S. Lose, equestrian director; W. C. Cox, general superintendent; D. T. Bartlett, superintendent privileges; Edw. F. Moore, musical director; Chester Monahan, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Geo. F. Millard, superintendent canvas; O. A. Devine, trainmaster; Wm. Wiggins, boss hostler; Hugh McCullough, superintendent commissary department; J. H. Daley, superintendent lights; E. S. Monroe, superintendent props; Joe Delaney, superintendent ring stock; Harvey Kinder, superintendent working crew; Jack Rhodes, 24-hour agent; W. A. Brown, boss carpenter; Fe. E. Shisley, blacksmith; Art. Barlow, manager advertising car No. 1; Frank Walder, manager advertising car No. 2; Arthur Monelli(?), checker-up; John Sells, legal adjuster; Kenilworth LaChoisser, announcer. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
• Article on the show, 1911-1914 is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1996, pp. 4-19.
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Tex Carson Wild Animal Circus - 1954-56 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1951-56
• Information on this show is online in "High Grass and Miller Magic," in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1969 (scroll down or use find).
• An article on the 1954-56 Tex Carson show and the 1957-1962 Carson & Barnes show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1999, Vol. 43, No. 4, pp. 4-20.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Dr. Carver's Wild West - 1884-85
1884:
Our Terre Haute, Ind., correspondent writes: "The Dr. Carver Wild West Show, which opened here May 21, went to pieces 23, caused by the Indians and cowboys attaching the properties for salaries claimed to be overdue. The Doctor states that he will remain here and settle every claim in full." New York Clipper, May 31, 1884, p. 166.
Harry Hawks' Wild West Show, which consisted in part of some of the Indians who were with Dr. Carver's Show, were about to take the train from Cincinnati, Hamilton, O., June 12, when the balloonist of the company attached the baggage and effects of the concern, and the troupe went to pieces. Dr. Carver's Wild West Show is to be re-organized by W. C. Coup. New York Clipper, June 21, 1884, p. 222.
Dr. Carver's Great Show, Life in the Wild West. Sideshow, concert and other privileges to let. Apply to W. C. Coup, Chicago Museum. New York Clipper, June 21, 1884, p. 224.
City News. Tomorrow Dr. Carver's Wild West show opens at the fair grounds. The fame of Dr. Carver, the famous shot, has extended all over the world. The show is a thrilling representation of life on the frontier. W. C. Coup, the circus manager, has charge of the entertainment. Fort Wayne Daily Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), July 15, 1884, n.p.n.
Dr. Carver's Wild West combination, under the management of Coup, the old circus man, after two days' exhibition at Indianapolis, started for Columbus, Ind., Saturday night, but were capiased at the depot to cover a billposter's bill, and after a dely of several hours compromised by paying part of the demand and arranging for the claimant to follow up the show for the remainder. Fort Wayne Sentinel (Fort Wayne, IN), July 22, 1884, n.p.n.
The recent appearance of Dr. Carver's Wild West show here lends interest to the fact that the combination is pretty hard run. The Wild West was at Lima yesterday morning and went to Van Wert, where they played in the afternoon. They are booked for Plymouth today and if they manage to show there it will be because they hae got a start. The Pittsburg people must have the cash in advance for transportation before a wheel rolls. Business was not large at Lima or Van Wert. The show is backed, it is said, by the proprietors of the Sherman house, Chicago, and W. C. Coup, the ex-circus proprietor, is managing it. Dr. Carver gets one-third of the profits when there are any. The show collapsed two or three times this summer, but was supposed to be now on good financial legs. The enterainment given is meritorious and we are sorry to see Carver so down on his luck. Fort Wayne Daily Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), August 5, 1884, p. 6.
• 1885: Willimantic, Conn., July 6, 1885. Dr. Carver, whose Wild West Show was attached on Friday by agents of Buffalo Bill on charges of libel, is still here at midnight, being unable to get bonds. The Wild West is billed to appear at Woonsocket, R.I., today. Bandwagon, August, 1943, Vol. 2, No. 5, p. 9.
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Cary & Co. - 1894
Notes from Cary & Co.'s Show. Everything begins to look like opening day around the winter quarters fo the show. Prof. Rich is working the ring stock every day, and has ten as fine horses as can be seen in any show. W. D.(?) Loper(?) and his ten mouth piece band will be a feature of the show. General agent McCarthy has just returned from a business trip to ___ and other Eastern cities, where he has made some excellent railroad contracts. Manager Cary is now in Chicago, and will visit several important points in the Northwest with a view of taking the show into that section. Some important sensational features have been engaged for the circus, a list of which will appear later. The show opens at Paterson, N.J., April 21(?). New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 37.
Wanted, for Cary & Co.'s New All Feature Show, Museum, Trained Animal Exhibition and Congress of Novelties, a few circus acts, ten first class billposters. . . . Cary & Co., Scranton, Pa. New York Clipper, March 24, 1894, p. 45.
Edward S. Johnson, contortionist, has recovered from his illness and has signed with Cary & Co.'s Show. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 53.
Roster and notes of the O. S. Cary Show. We opened at Scranton, Pa., May 2(?), to big business. The show carries a 100ft. round top and two middle pieces and dressing top. There is a 40(?)ft. ring and a 50(?)ft. elevated stage. O. S. Cary & Co., proprietors; S. Goldsmith, treasurer; O. S. Cary manager; J. McCarthy, advance manager. Performers: Livingstone Family; the Morellos(?), the Raynores(?), ?. S. Johnson; William Roberts; Bo? Morello; Saturo's(?) Japanese Troupe, five in number; Prof. Geo. D.(?) Rich(?) and his nine Arabian stallions and eight of the smallest performing ponies in the world; Prof. H. Johnson and his canine paradox. Concert people: Billy Raymore . . . William Morello, Harry Aslton, Edna Cary, Ida Morello and Victor Livingstone. Side show: C. Culbertson, proprietor; A. L. Salvall(?), manager, with the following people: Sig. Cassinova . . . Mack Evans, Ki Ki, Joe Loeb(?), ___ Culbertson and the Canadian giant and his wrestling bear. . . . John Daily, boss hostler; and Joe Peal in charge of cook tent. Show travels by rail, using seven brand new cars. The opening was a grand success. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.
On the road, circuses: O. S. Cary's, Albany, N.Y. May 17, 18. New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.
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Casselman's - ca 1907-10, 1915, 1918 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1915
ca 1907-1910:
Postcards below show Casselman's Variety Show. Note that C.S. Casselman wrote the messages. Shown are 5 wagons, 8 horses and 12 people. He describes the images as "oun entire troupe." In the CHS Bits, the description for Seasons 1915 and 1918 indicates Casselman's traveled carried 14 wagons, 2 autos, 30 head of stock and 35 people. Due to the significant differences in the size of the show and the style of AZO photographic paper used, I estimate these images are 1907- 1910. Photos and information courtesy of Chuck Finley
1915:
Casselman's Circus opened the season of 1915 at Bristol, Ind., April 22, and in spite of bad weather and the European war has been doing as good as can be expected. Everything on the show has been overhauled and repainted, and the outfit is one of the finest wagon shows of its kind and size on the road. It consists of fourteen wagons, thirty head of stock and two autos. A $1,500 electric light plant was added this year. Thirty-five people are carried. C. S. Casselman, owner and manager; Mrs. Susie Casselman, secretary and treasurer; Frank Reade, superintendent of privileges; Bob Goodale, boss canvasman with seven assistants; Mina Wilison(?), boss hostler with three assistnats; G. B. Fluhrer, stage manager; Maurice Dalton, orchestra leader; Lawrence Lawson, boss property man; Johnny Jones, in advance with two assistants; Mrs. Alice Wilson, superintendent of cookhouse. Paul Enzel, contortionist; Reade and Wright, sketch artists; Edward Phillips, dancing comedian; Frank Valters, flying perch and rings; Fluhrer and Fluhrer, singing and novelty artists; Fritz Peterson, Mazie Biglow, Miss Wildman, Frank Osborne, Hosea Dinnsett and Miss Pearl Hinton, piano player, performers. Billboard, June 26, 1915, p. 34.
The Casselman Circus, playing their twenty-first week at Bristol, Ind., survive, even against the rain, and claim some figures on the right side. The outfit, consisting of fourteen wagons, thirty head of stock and two autos, has the following roster: C. S. Casselman, owner and manager; Susie Casselman, secy. and treas.; Johnny Jones, advance; Mrs. Alice Wilson, cookhouse: Mina Wilson, stock; Lawrence Lawson, props. Performers: Reade and Wright, Paul Wencel, Edward Phillips, Frank Valters, Fritz Peterson, Mazie B. Poser, Fluhrer and Fluhrer, Hosea Dinsitt, Frank Osborne, Aubra Wilson and Pearl Hinton. Billboard, September 11, 1915, p. 58.
1918:
Wanted, for C. S. Casselman's Circus and Vaudeville Show. Blackface S. & D. comedian, also male piano player. Other versatile people with one night stand wagon show experience. Address Ed Henderson, manager, Casselman's Shows, Twelve Mile, May 25, Bunker Hill 27, Greentown 28, all in Indiana. Permanent address, Vandalia, Michigan. [Advertisemen] Billboard, May 25, 1918, p. 2.
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Cantellis & Leon - 1882-83 (Cuba)
1882:
The opening of Leon & Cantellis Company at Janes' Theatre Circus, Havana, Cuba, took place Nov. 17. The programme, says our correspondent, "included tumbling by the company, exhibition of trained dogs and a monkey by Shedman, a contortion act by Gaylord, a jockey act by Scafer, the comics by the Shedman Bros., the high wire by Ella Zuila, a ladder act by the four Russian Athletes, a slack wire act by Venus, a pair of trained donkeys, a double trapeze act by the children Little Gerry and Alfredo, the catapult by Harry Carey, and a leap for life by Ella Zuilla. Leon, with several performers, is expected shortly." New York Clipper, December 2, 1882, p. 599.
1883:
The latest arrivals at Cantellis & Leon's Circus, Havana, Cuba, are Hawley, late of Hawley and Buislay, who recently closed with the Orrin Brothers, Albardo Lowande, Josephine Lowande, Martinho Lowande, the three Lowande Children, and little Lulu Loyal. Hattie Austin is expected shortly. Maude Oswald is recovering rapidly, and will soon go to work again. Later advices state: "There have been a number of changes, Loyal, Carlo, Hawley and Carey doing a horizontal bar act, young William Lowande a principal bareback act, and the programme also includes a brother act by the Lowande Children, the magic barrel and cross by Fred Carlo, the high wire by Ella Zuila . . . and a fine pad act by Abelardo Lowande, clowned by P. Brown, clown." New York Clipper, January 13, 1883, p. 702.
At Cantellis & Leon's Circus, Havana, Cuba, Jan. 12 . . . Fred Runnels, clown and tumbling; James Campbell, leaper; Miss Addie Austin, bareback rider arrived. Geo. Loyal and Dave Hawley have doubled up, and are now doing their simultaneous double flying trapeze. Frank Brown is clown, Harry Carey and his catapult act. New York Clipper, January 27, 1883, p. 727.
Cantellis & Leon's Circus in Havana, Cuba, is playing to big business. Another circus company under their management was to have commenced a traveling season under canvas in Matanzas Jan. 27. They are also reported as doing well with another company in which they are interested with the elephant "Bambo." New York Clipper, February 3, 1883, p. 742.
Addie Austin opened at Cantellis & Leon's Circus, Havana, Cuba, Jan. 16, doing a pad act. Mr. Elder, the Scotch athlete, A. P. McKinster with trained oxen, and M. Clark with his sombrograph, appeared 18. The Roman Students, whose principal attraction is Luis del Oro, who played a foot organ while playing a superior accordian, closed 19. Abelardo Lowande is the principal act, Clint Romelli in tumbling, Snow and Leon in a brother act, Mlle. Josephine, principal bareback act, and Frank Brown and Fred Runnells as clowns. New York Clipper, February 3, 1883, p. 750.
Cantellis & Leon's Circus. All the people engaged by Leon have been divided into three companies, one in the interior of the Island, running opposition to Pubillone's Show, under the generalship of Martinho Lowande, another at Mantansas, under the supervision of George Loyal, and the other marshaled by Leon at Havana. They are constantly interchanging their performers. New York Clipper, February 17, 1883, p. 782.
Those of Leon & Cantellis' Troupe that went to Key West, Fla., under the management of the Carlo Bros., have returned to Havana, Cuba, and after giving one performance there showed in Matanzas and Cardenas. They are going to Porto Rico. New York Clipper, April 21, 1883, p. 70.
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Castello & Graves - 1905 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1905
"The Castello & Graves circus had a pretty hard time of it yesterday but in spite of rain two performances were given in the tent at the corner of Washington and Cottage streets. And the performances were very much enjoyed. Some of the acts are of a very high order of merit and the old-fashioned, one ring affair, where everything on the bill could be seen, pleased everybody. The circus men got under day early this morning and made a parade through the city. The display was a credible one and meant a good house at this afternoon's performance and a crowded tent this evening." Auburn (NY) Bulletin, May 27, 1905. Information should be checked with additional sources
"Castello & Graves Circus, which has been on the flat since Monday says the Utica Observer has traveled in hard luck ever since it started in May. Bad weater kept the people from the tents and the money from the treasury, and there has been some little delay in paying the help. Yesterday, the circus people filed six bills of the sale in the County Clerk's office, covering practically all of their effects. To-day, 'Dan' Darleigh, who is known in Utica through his appearance at the theatres in different companies and who has been the clown with the circus, secured a writ of attachment and levied on two horses to secure a bill for something like $40 for services for himself and his wife. It is probable that the matter will be settled and the circus will proceed after a few days. The legal work has not been permitted to interfere with the presentation of the shows. 'Dan' will not be with the show when it goes out." Oswego Daily Times (Oswego, NY), June 24, 1905.
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Dan Castello's - 1864-69, 1870, 1876, 1880, 1883, 1890
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1861, 1864-70, 1876, 1888, 1890
• 1864: online at:
Clipper, May 21, Clipper, July 16, Clipper, July 30 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 13, Clipper, October 8 (scroll down)
• 1865: online at Clipper, April 8, Clipper, April 22 (scroll down)
1866:
[Advertisement] Dan Castello's Great Show! Moral exhibition and wonderful wild animals. Remodeled, refitted and greatly improved for the season of 1866. James M. Nixon, manager. Dan Castello's Great Show will exhibit at Alton, Wednesday, May 30. At each performance, the world renowned humorist and conversationalist, the best general talker of the day, Dan Castello. Will appear in his motley attire, give his humors of the hour, introduce his magnificent horse with the "Flowing Mane," the Russian "Czar," his sagacious trick steed, "Andy Johnson," the irrestible ony, the smallest and smartest one in the world, "January," and those two irrepressible quadrupeds, "them mules," Artemus Ward and Brick Pomeroy.
New and startling specialty, given for the first time in any exhibition in any country. Herr Lengel, the most daring artiste who has ever handled the monsters of the forest, plains and jungles, will enter the den with the wild lions & lioness. And give a performance that has created an unparalleled excitement throughout the country. The papers and the people have endorsed and proclaimed it to be the greatest display of intrepidity ever displayed by mortal being. The Memphis Bulletin remarked: "The wild lions and lionesses, under the direction of Herr Lengel, consitute the most exciting and startling exhibitions ever witnessed, far surpassing the daring victories and triumphs won and acquired by the late I. A. Van Amburgh." The Richmond Whig said: "Herr Lengel's feats with the wild animals furnish wonderful evidence of what nerve, cool courage and determination can achieve. the animals are splendid specimens of the genus feline, and having been but recently captured and caged, retain the major portion of their innate ferocity."
All the animals of this species that "lion kings" have handled, were trained, and to a certain extent rendered docile. But these creatures appear to be opposed to either kindness or familiarity. Herr Lengel enters the den with apparent unconcern, and although they growl, spit (cat-like) and strike at him, he makes them keep their distance. He feeds them and absolutely tears a piece of meat from the clutches of the lion. 'Tis when he is about to retire that the danger becomes so apparent. As he passes through the barred gate they all spring towards it, but failing to catch him, they set up a series of howls and roars that are almost deafening. Great as the performance is one cannot behold it without a shudder, and experiencing a dread least it might terminate fatally. The animals will be exhibited in the circle in a commodious cage, so arranged that the spectators can with perfect safety, closely observe every movement made by those noble creaturs which are admitted to be the finest specimens ever captured.
Among the performers of eminence are: Miss Kate Ormand, Miss Lucille Watson, Mrs. Dan Castello, Mrs. H. F. Nichols, Miss Ella La Moine, Mr. Ferdinand Tournaire, Mr. Tom Burgess, clown, Mr. E. Watson, Mr. T. Halloway, Messrs. Hannon & Powers, Mr. A. Lehmen, Mr. F. Watson, Mr. Thomas Hodge, Mr. C. Craig, Mr. H. F. Nichols, and a full and efficient corps of auxiliaries. . . . Admission fifty cents. Children under 10 years of age, 25 cents. Two performances. Afternoon at half-past two o'clock. Night at eight o'clock. Doors open one hour previous. Ben Crosby, contracting ag't. Richard P. Jones, director of publications. [Note: Haight & Chambers Circus' advertisement on the same page, to show in Alton on June 2.] Alton Telegraph (IL), May 25, 1866, n.p.n.
• 1866: online at:
Clipper, March 31, Clipper, April 14, Clipper, May 5 (scroll down)
Clipper, May 12, Clipper, May 19, Clipper, May 26 (scroll down)
Clipper, June 9, Clipper, June 16, Clipper, June 23 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 7, Clipper, August 11, Clipper, August 25 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 8, Clipper, September 15, Clipper, September 22 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 29, Clipper, November 10, Clipper, November 17 (scroll down)
Clipper, December 8, Clipper, December 15 (scroll down)
• Information on the 1866 Dan Castello's Great Show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1997, Vol. 41, No. 1, pp. 44-45.
1867:
Circus Burned. Everybody knows Dan Castello, an old showman, and formerly a resident of Grant county, Wis. For some time past Castello and his circus have been exhibiting in Kentucky. The agent of Maginley, Carroll & Co.'s Consolidated Circus informs us that a couple of weeks since Castello's establishment was burned out "and like the business fabric of a vision, left not a [horse]-rack behind." Dan is an energetic fellow, and will ere long be found "right side up with care," we'll warrant. Dubuque Daily Herald (IA), June 9, 1867, n.p.n.
• 1867: online at:
Clipper, January 12, Clipper, February 2, Clipper, March 2 (scroll down)
Clipper, March 23, Clipper, April 27, Clipper, July 20 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 21, Clipper, November 9, Clipper, November 16 (scroll down)
Clipper, November 30, Clipper, December 7 (scroll down)
1868:
[Advertisement] Dan Castello's Monster Show. Comprising Nixon's New York Circus, Howe's United States Circus, and Dan Castllo's trained animals. These three great companies numbering over 350 men and horses, making one vast and extensive equestrian establishment, all under one pavilion, and one price of admission. Will exhibit at Dubuque, Tuesday, August 4, afternoon and evening. Dubuque Daily Herald (IA), July 26, 1868, p. 1.
• 1868: online at:
Clipper, January 4, Clipper, January 18, Clipper, February 8 (scroll down)
Clipper, February 29, Clipper, March 7, Clipper, March 28 (scroll down)
Clipper, June 13, Clipper, July 18, Clipper, December 12 (scroll down)
Clipper, December 19 (scroll down)
1869:
[Advertisement] Dan Castello's Great Show, Circus and Menagerie will exhibit at Lawrence, Saturday, May 15th, 1869. Admission 75 cents. Children under 10 years of age, 50 cents. Exhibition under one canvas and one price of admission. Amusement and pleasure combined with instruction. Gratuitous street pageant. In this grand cavalcade and moving picture will appear the Golden Chariot of Theodore, King of Abyssinis.
The menagerie consists of a varied and very zoological collection, comprising specimens of the rarest and most beautiful wild beasts, birds and reptiles. It contains the most wonderful two performing elephants. Jenny Lind, performed by Prof. Nash; and the baby elephant, only 58 hands in height, will be introduced in the ring by Mr. Dan Castello, and give the juveniles an opportunity to ride la Africa. Prof. Nash will also enter the den of trained lions, tigers, leopards, &c. Beautiful harte beast. Also the grey spring bok . . .
Dan Castello will appear as clown at each performance and introduce his high school of equines, the only real horse show in the United States. The educated menagerie comprises Czar, the majestic; Float Cloud, the beauty; Blue Lick, the pride of Kentucky; the incarnation of fun, Wh'a January; and those two comical four-footed comedians, Artemas and Timothy.
For the first time in America, the Brazilian Family, of Alexandria, Lowanda, a gifted household, among whom are Martini Lowanda, bare back rider; Signorita Clorinda, beautiful brunette of the tropics; Young Arbalaga Lowanda, the boy wonder, and Natila Lowanda. The strength of Dan Castello's Circus has been augmented by the addition of Master Dan Castello, Mr. W. Sparkes, Mr. Theodore Batchelor, the protean artist Mr. Henry Batty, the Carr Brothers, Julian Kent, Mr. Miles Merriman, ring master, and a large auxiliary force, the strongest artistic equestrian combination.
Grand street pageant will leave the mammoth pavilion, which covers one acre of ground, and will accomodate over five thousand persons, at 11 o'clock a.m. Performance will commence, afternoon at 2 o'clock, evening, 7 1/2 o'clock. Wyandotte, Wednesday, May 12. Topeka, Thursday, May 13. Junction City, Friday, May 14. Lawrence Republican Daily Journal (KS), May 1, 1869, n.p.n.
• 1868-69: Dan Castello was in Kansas in September, 1868. The show featured riders and Dan Castello clowed with his trick horse. Willis Cobb presented his educated dogs, goats and monkeys. The show returned to Kansas in May, 1869, with Dan Castello still clowning, the Lowanda family of equestrians, and others. More information on the show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 3, pp. 13-14, 16-17.
1870: (Castello & Coup)
[Advertisement] Dan Castello's Great Circus and Egyptian Caravan will exhibit at St. Joseph on Monday, May 30th. The largest equestrian company organized in America. The introduction of a herd of camels into the ring. Genuine double-humped bactrian camels, the only white camels ever imported to this country.
Mr. Philo Nathans, young and dashing equestrian. Master John Saunders, bareback rider. Mrs. Dan Castello, equestrienne. Miss Estelle Nathans. Miss Frances Donaldson, corde volante. Mlle. Virginie, equestrienne. Miacco, Hawley & Rivers, the "Three Flying Men," as performed by them while in company with the Hanlon Brothers. The Salinyea Family, Charley, George and Henry, acrobats and passes plastique. Mr. Dan Castello, conversationalist and only American clown that ever appeared before Queen Victoria by royal command. Dan will introduce the stud of highly trained horses, ponies and mules. Among the trained horses is "Czar," presented to Dan by his Excellency, the Emperor of Russia; the dancing horse "Senator," aht the pure Arabian, "Floating Cloud;" the educated mules, and that comic pony, "January."
The performance will commence in the evening with the Eastern spectacle of The Halt in the Desert, in which camels, and the troupe of the children of Hagar will appear, followed by all the male and female riders, gymnastic acrobats, funny clowns, comic mules, educated horses, etc. The whole to conclude with the side-splitting afterpiece entitled the "Ku-Klux Klan," or, initiation of two members into the Mystic Order. Castello & W. C. Coup, proprietors. St. Joseph Herald (MI), May 28, 1870, n.p.n.
• 1870: Dan Castello and William C. Coup were partners in the 1870 Dan Castello's Great Circus & Egyptian Caravan. The show traveled by boat to cities on the Great Lakes. It played inland dates before boarding the ship Benton, Racine, Union Grove and Burlingon, Wisconsin. Other inland cities were also visited during the season. The article with details on this show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1971, Vol. 15, No. 4, pp. 18-20.
1876:
Evansville Journal. Constable Frank Morris yesterday morning sold the remains of Dan Castello's circus and menagerie at auction in the presence of a large crowd of probably two hundred people. The sale took place at Col. Charles C. Burns' stable on Locust street. It was made in accordance with an execution levied on the property by S. P. Stickney, the clown, and one or two other performers for salary due and unpaid.
The sale was an immense sacrifice, as the property worth $4,000 or $5,000, brought only $1,200. Joseph Morris purchased a fine black horse for $40; at ticket wagon worth $300 or $400 for $155; three sets of fine harness for $45; three camels for $200, and the entire canvas, ropes, seats, poles, etc., for $105, making a total of $545. All but the harness was purchased for parties in the each. The camels were worth from $400 to $700 each, and the largest of the three, an immense Arabian dromedary, brought $100 at the sale, the others $50 each.
The circus canvas is worth probably $3,500, and brought only $105. It consists of two coverings, one of which is new; the affair being water-proof. Henry Gumberts purchased two animal wagons for $50. Captain Hornbroke, for other parties, purchased a fine gray ring horse, and two trick mules for $275, the two mules bringing only $75. Col. C. C. Burness took a trick stallion, Excelsior, at $200, but it was discovered afterward that the animal was dying, with colic, and it is doubtful if the colonel will receive him. Gen. James M. Shackleford, one "calico" ring horse (billed as a thoroughbred Arabian), %67.50. Henry Brommelhaus purchased two little black Shetland ponies, a perfect match, for $82.50. The total amount of the sale was $1,220. Daily Constitution (Atlanta, GA), November 3, 1876, p. 1.
• 1876: Dan Castello's Great Centennial Museum, Menagerie, Double Gigantic Circus played Kansas in June, 1876. The show advertised two sets of riders, two sets of athletes, two sets of gymnasts and two sets of acrobats in its circus troupe. Bandwagon, September-October, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 5, p. 32.
1877: The outfit of Dan Castello's Centennial Show, including canvas, cages, wagons, pad, bareback and trick horses, harness, wardrobe, flags, etc., can be purchased of E. B. Palmer, Delavan, Wisconsin. New York Clipper, March 3, 1877, p. 391.
1880:
Dan Castello's Circus opened in Leadville, Col., June 9, and is to remain two weeks. E. W. Wiggins, proprietor of the privileges, has sold out to Ned Foster. New York Clipper, June 26, 1880, p. 111.
Dan Castello's Circus is said to have disbanded in Denver, Col., during the week ending June 26. New York Clipper, July 10, 1880, p. 127.
Dan Castello's Circus was sold at auction in Denver, Col. Mr. Eldridge, one of the proprietors, held a mortgage upon it. He has not succeeded in getting enough people to start out with as yet. The brass band has disbanded. Prof. Bartholomew, with his trained horses, has also severed his connection, and has established a "Horse Academy and Riding School" in Denver. New York Clipper, July 24, 1880, p. 139.
1883:
The advance agent of Dan Castello's circus combination has entered into arrangements with the Northern Pacific to transport the outfit during the next summer from town to town throughout the whole line of road from Duluth to the Pacific. Both Dan and the railroad authorities calculate upon an early completion of the road. Daily Miner (Butte, MT), January 6, 1883, n.p.n.
Harvey Hart, Frank France and Safe Miller, of Decatur, and Ed. Dailey, of Bluffton, passed through Elkhart yesterday on their way to Benton Harbor, where they join Castellos circus as musicians. Elkhart Monitor (Elkhart, IN), April 27, 1883, n.p.n.
Dan Castello's circus has left Duluth via the Northern Pacific enroute for the Pacific coast. They will travel by special to Mandan, by regular train to Helena, and thence across country in their own wagons. Butte Daily Miner (Butte, MT), June 19, 1883, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Dan Castello's New Colossal Nickel Plate Circus and Great International Allied Attractions. Will exhibit at Helena, July 2d, 3d and 4th. . . . Daily Independent (Helena, MT), June 23, 1883, n.p.n.
Dan Castello who is expected in Butte soon with his Nickle Plate circus, brought the first circus to Montana in 1871. He showed at Virginia City and other towns and the admission was $2 which for the time and place was very low. Butte Daily Miner (Butte, MT), June 26, 1883, n.p.n.
Castello's circus was delayed three days beyond its date in getting to Missoula, on account of the rough roads. Daily Independent (Helena, MT), July 18, 1883, n.p.n.
Dan Costello's [sic Castello] Nickel-Plate Circus was announced in Portland, Oregon, July 27, 28, 30, and intends visiting 'Frisco. New York Clipper, August 18, 1883, p. 355.
Dan Castello's Circus, W. H. Harris, manager and owner, closed a successful season at Roseburg, Oregon, August 28, having played through Michigan, Dakota, Montana, Washington Territory and British Columbia. It was the intention to have played through to California, but transportation across the gap between Roseburg, Or. and Redding, Cal., could not be obtained. New York Clipper, September 15, 1883, p. 430.
Dan Castello's circus which passed through here last July, was disbanded at Roseburg, the end of the Oregon and California road. The season was a very successful one and the breaking up of the company was the result of no financial difficulties. Daily Independent (Helena, MT), September 28, 1883, n.p.n.
Dan Castello's circus is in winter quarters at Roseberg, Oregon, and Dan is engaged in training horses for the season fo 1884, when his show will again traverse the Northern Pacific. Daily Independent (Helena, MT), November 16, 1883, n.p.n.
The following circus people have been engaged for next season by W. H. Harris for Castello's Nickel-plate Shows: Frank, Etta and Louise Humphreys, the Burton Athletes, ladder and brother act; Cosmos Brothers, contortion; Swinburn Sisters, double trapeze; Chas. Harding, Master Frank Elliot and Little Charley and the Belmonts - Charles, Lotta and Daisy. Dr. J. H. Hanson will be railroad contractor and general director, as last season. New York Clipper, November 17, 1883, p. 575.
W. H. Harris of the Harris-Castello Show has purchased a den of performing lions, including Bob and Prince; also the trick elephant Gipsy and a large lot of show property, which will be shipped to the Far West in the early Spring. Mons. and Madame Josephs, strong people, go with the show next season. New York Clipper, December 22, 1883, p. 670.
1890:
The original and only Dan Castello New United Monster Shows, Circus, Museum, Menagerie, Hippodrome and Great World's Exposition. Season of 1890. Wanted, circus people in every line, including bar, aerial and ground acts, riders, jesters and performing animals, side show curios, etc. Also good boss canvasman. . . . Address . . . James E. Noble, proprietor, Chicago, Illinois. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 45.
Dan Castello's Circus opened the season at Chicago April __ and has been playing to uniformly good business. The roster: J. E. Noble, sole proprietor; George Murray, general manager . . . T. Watson(?), equestrian director; Prof. Mayo's equine paradox; Gus(?) Lee . . . Woods Bros. . . . F. Holland; Ed. Carroll; Bert Mayo; Marie Davenport; Mary Lee . . . and Prof. Monroe's brass and string band . . . New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 167.
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Castello & Van Vleck - 1863
Circus Enterprise in Grant County. We have long neglected to notice an enterprise in the south part of the county involving a great outlay and skill which merits some attention; we mean a circus school for training men, horses and other animals in the varied exercises of the ring for exhibitions as a traveling circus. The proprietors are Dan Castello, and experienced performer, and Matthew and Lorenz Van Vleck, the first named a New York man, but for some years an actor in Europe, most parts of which country he has visited with his company. The Van Vleck brothers have been residents of this country for near a dozen years, and are known widely for their partiality for fine horses and for their mammoth mineral discoveries, from which they have amassed fine fortunes. Castello and the Van Vlecks together have the capital and business tact for most any enterprise they may fancy.
Castello & Van Vleck's Mammoth Circus. The best circus in the country, above designated, is about to start on a tour through Northern Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois. We have seen the horses and men practicing the feats they perform, and know this institution will create a sensation. The proprietors have spared no pains in getting the thing up, nor money that could be expended to advantage in organizing a talented troupe of male and female performrs. The gymnasts, acrobats, and equestrians excell in the several feats they perform.
Fairplay and Its "Mammoth Show." Twenty years ago immense mineal discoveries were made among the Wisconsin hills, seven or eight miles from Dubuque. Thousands of people rushed to the vicinity, and the hillsides were white with tents. As a consequence, fighting, murders and robbery were almost of every day occurrence. At last about a hundred miners, living near each other, held a meeting, and resolved that foul play should cease in their limits, that in both fighting and mining fair play should be the rule. So whenever a quarrel would arise between miners, men would run towards them, form a ring, and cry, "Fair play, men, fair play." It was not long till that immediate locality became famous. Stores, workshops, and dwellings were erected, and for years a large busines was transacted at "Fairplay." In course of time mineral discoveries ceased, and business at Fairpaly became consequently dull, and it remained so until last fall, when new life seemed to be infused into the place. Wagon makers and blacksmiths, took up their abode there, and the music of the saw, the plane, the hammer and the anvil, has been heard in day and day out. The finest horses ever seen in the West have been sent there. Strangers from all parts of the country have spent the winter there, and everything has been full of life and energy.
[Advertisement] Castello & Van Vleck's Mammoth Circus. With new scenery, new outfit, and a fine and well selected company. Will exhibit in Dubuque on Wednesday and Thursday, May 20th and 21st, in the afternoon and evening, at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Our new tent, splendidly lighted and seated with cushion seats, is capable of holding 2,000 persons.
• 1863: online at:
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Dan Castello's Great Overland Circus
• An article on the 1870 John Wilson and Leihy & Lake's Dan Castello show is in "The Other Dan Castello Circus," Bandwagon, January-February, 2000, Vol. 44, No. 1, pp. 25-26.
Castello, Williamson & Oatman - 1891 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1891
For sale. Twelve military drill horses, one ___ grey horse . . . one beautiful white trick horse, sone beautiful small trick mule that performs many tricks and a small pony . . . For sale at a bargain. Going out of the business. Address F. J. Oatman, New Albany, Ind. New York Clipper, January 24, 1891, p. 735.
Paducah, Kentucky. "Uncle" Dan Castello has taken charge of Oatman's horses at New Albany, Ind., and will get them in trim for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 6.
Wanted, musicians to strengthen band with the T. J. Oatman Circus. Clarionet and trombone(?) preferred. Write or telegraph quick . . . New York Clipper, March 28, 1891, p. 51.
The Oatman Show is arranging to start from New Albany, Ind., April 11. Uncle Dan Costello is interested in this venture with Joseph Oatman, an old river pilot, who has only recently entered the profession. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 76.
Dan Costello and C. Williams' United Shows, combined with J. T. Oatman's Equine Paradox opened their season very auspiciously at New Albany, Ind., April 15(?). The roster of the company includes: Dan Costello, C. Williams and J. T. Oatman, proprietors; J. T. Oatman, manager; C. Williams, treasurer; Dan Costello, equestrian director; Chas. McCuen(?), advance agent; W. M. Little, assistant agent; Al. Walten(Wallen?), in charge of bill car No. 1, with ten men; Harry Stevenson, in charge of bill car No. 2, with eight men; Frank De Mora, D. L. Nichols, Murrell Bros., Harry Bowers, Albert De Velde, Jos. Belmont, Frank Le Roux, Louis Tremaine . . . May Sylvester . . . Jessie Sutton, Nellie Bowen, Mme. Iza, Gus Lee, Harry Le Roy . . . Pearl Wardell, Mme. Bachtel and Nettie Bowers, perfromes. Chas. Bachtel, band leader with ten musicians; John ?. Stevens, boss hostler with seven men; ___ Shank, boss canvasman . . . and John Booker, chandelier man, with one assistant. The stock comprises forty-three head of horses. The canvas is a 125(?)ft. round top with three 40(?)ft. middle pieces. The show will travel by rail, having twelve new cars, comprising two sleepers, two stock and eight flat cars. Everything about the outfit is bright and new, and the outlook for a prosperous season is very promising. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 117.
Notes from Dan Costello’s Circus. The weather has been fine, and the show is doing a splendid business. Frank Le Roux sprained his ankle while leaping, May 4, and will be compelled to rest a few days. I. J. Masten, cornettist, joined 5. D. L. Nichols, high wire performer, was married at Louisville 6, to Priscillia Fontenilliatt, a non-professional of that city. The wedding ceremony was quietly held at the bride’s home, and the couple received the best wishes of all. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 169.
Wanted, musicians for the Castello, Williamson & Oatman's Circus. Good musicians and strong players. Long engagement. Chas. R.(?) Bachtel, leader, New Richmond, Ohio. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 178.
Frank De Mora, having left Dan Costello's Circus, is now at Kohl & Middleton's Museum, Cincinnati, O. Both his wrists, which were sprained recently, are improving rapidly. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 185.
On the road, circuses: Dan Costellos', Dayton, Ky. May 30. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
Notes from Castello, Williamson & Oatman's Big U. S. Shows. We closed at Cincinnati May 23, to big business. We have had the "S. R. O." sign out for the last month. Frank Leroux's ankle is rapidly mending. Harry Murella(?) sprained his ___ on the bars, at Newport 14. He has gone home to New Albany until it gets well. D. P. Nichols, the wire walker, was reported as married in your last week's edition. D. P. was J. J. Nichols, the cannon ball man. . . . "Shorty" Davis, musician, has gone to Tacoma, Wash., to instruct a cornet school. He was presented with an elegant gold watch by the members of the company, on the eve of his departure. James T. Kenney, the Irish clown, has signed with Trask's Novelty Co. for the season of 1891-92. Our band gave an open air concert at Dayton 17, and the Board of Aldermen sent in a vote of thanks. Gus Lee has purchased another home at Chicago. If Gus keeps on he will own a small sized city. Uncle Dan Castello was seized with an alarming attack of nervous prostration 23. For a while his life was despaired of, but the veteran's grit and rugged constitution came to the front, and he is now rapidly convalescing. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 215.
The Bowers, Harry and Nellie, left the Dan Castello & Williamson's Circus and joined the Stowe Bros.' Circus, at Cincinnati, May 1?. New York Clipper, June 6, 1891, p. 215.
Wanted, first class advance agent. Wire Buffalo, W. Va. June 12, Point Pleasant W. Va. 13(?) . . . Castello United States Shows. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 240.
Notes from Castello, Williamson & Oatman's United States Shows. We ___ our date at Charleston, W. Va., June 10(?), to big business. Our boat looks more like a hospital than it does like a show boat, however. Nearly every one of the company is sick with malaria. D. L. Nichols was very ill, while Mlle. Zola could not work at Charleston on account of sickness. James T. Kenney says he is going to write for dates as a living skeleton. Mrs. T. J. Oatman was presented, 8, with a magnificent floral harp and a beautiful basket of flowers by the school children. She and her little mare, Topsy, are great favorites everywhere. May Lee was also very sick last week, but she is convalescing rapidly. Our prize band still continue to create a furore everywhere. Joseph Belmont, principal leaper, closed 10(?). Mlle. Angus(?), flying trapeze performer, joined at Point Pleasant. We were caught in a cyclone at Huntington, 6, and the tent was blown to pieces; but we always carry a reserve top, and were thus able to fill all dates. The horses(?) got loose and wandered all over the town, but they were eventually recovered. Strange to say, the trick mule, Jerry, was the first one aboard, and he came of his own accord, too. New York Clipper, June 20, 1891, p. 249.
The Costello, Williamson & Oatman Circus collapsed at Middleport, O., June 13(?). Dissension among the management is said to have been the chief cause. Manager T. J. Oatman will reorganize the show early in July. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 269.
Our Paducah, Ky. letter gives an account of the blow down of Terrell Bros.' Circus and mentions the closing of Costello & Oatman's Show. New York Clipper, July 11, 1891, p. 296.
Wanted, an engagement with a reliable circus. Six horse acts, with clown and January act, lady working trick horses - for salary. Write or wire, T. J. Oatman, St. Albans, W. Va. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 325.
• 1892: Uncle Dan Castello is spending the winter at Paducah, Ky., and is considering several offers for next season. One of which he looks favorably is to clown with the Costello-McMahon Show. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 779.
• 1893: Notice. T. J. Oatman, of 247 1/2 S. DesPlaines Street, Chicago, Ill. can be engaged for winter season, with his trick horses, ponies and dogs, with circus, museum or opera house attraction. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 339.
• 1905: Passenger and Crew Lists of Vessels Arriving at New York, New York. S.S. Seguranca from Colon, Feb. 9, 1905, arriving at New York, Feb. 16, 1905. T. J. Oatman, age 50, circus manager; Mrs. T. J. Oatman, age 38, wife.
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Hubert Castle Circus - 1976, 1980
• Al Dawley was ringmaster in 1976. With the show were clowns Jimmy Armstrong, Danny Chapman and Gene Randow. Southern Sawdust, No. 88, August, 1976, p. 3.
• In 1980 the show had two units (Gold and Blue) most of the season. The show opened January 11 in Saginaw, Michigan. Bandwagon, January-February, 1981, p. 13.
• Brief information on the 1981 show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1982, pp. 13-14.
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Circo Catardo - 1892 (Cuba)
Circo Catardo [Cuba], a native troupe, and a good one. Pauline Carre and husband, Tolillene, and the old timer, Harry Cardona, are with them. New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 747.
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Cather & Shallcross - 1889 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1899
Cathers & Shallcross' (Limited) New Colossal Shows, Circus, Museum, Trained Animal Exhibition and Great Wild West Show. Now organizing for the season of 1889. Wagon show. Wanted, performers of all kinds, including cowboys, Mexican, Indians and sharpshooters for the Wild West; band of 8 or 10 mouthpieces; sideshow and concert people, such as specialists, freaks, curiosities, etc. Would like to buy one elephant, two camels and cage animals for menagerie. Address Cathers & Shallcross, Frankford, Philadelphia. Wanted for the advance, 25 billposters, lithographers, and ment to take charge of brigade and paper. Advance people address Miles Berry, general advance manager, Frankford, Philadelphia, Pa. New York Clipper, January 5, 1889, p. 695.
Cather and Shallcross are at their Winter quarters at Frankford, Philadelphia. Mr. Cather has just returned home, bringing with him all the animals that have been with the Forepaugh Show during the past two years in California. The collection includes Empress, the performing elephant. New York Clipper, January 19, 1889, p. 717.
De Lisle Bros., the Michigan trick rifle shots, have signed with the Cathers & Shallcross Circus of Frankford, Pa. New York Clipper, February 16, 1889, p. 787.
Manager Cather, of the Cather & Shallcross' Shows, has been in the Far West for the past month or so, securing Indians, squaws and pappooses, cowboys, mustangs and bucking bronchos for the Wild West branch of their shows. He returned to Philadelphia, Pa. last week. The troupe open their season April 19 at Frankford, Pa. A number of performing horses were also secured at Chicago, Ill., recently. New York Clipper, April 6, 1889, p. 57.
Call. Cather & Shallcross. All performers and musicians under engagement are notified to report at Frankford, Philadelphia, Pa., April 17. Rehearsal takes place April 18. Show opens April 19. Cather & Shallcross. New York Clipper, April 13, 1889, p. 85.
Cather & Shallcross' New Colossal Shows, Museum, Trained Animal Exhibition and Great Wild West will exhibit at Port Chester, June 10, price 25 cents. Empress the largest performing elephant; Robert Delisle, rifle wizard; Little Deer, Sioux chief; troop of performing stallions; Lottie Burbank, hight wire. Street parade - men, women and children, horses, elephants and camels, triumphal chariots. [Advertisement] Port Chester Journal (Port Chester, NY), June 6, 1889, p. 5.
Henry F. Klein writes of unpaid salary from the Cather & Shallcross Show. He recently left the troupe. New York Clipper, July 6, 1889, p. 274.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Robert Gabriel entered suit against Cather & Shallcross, the circus proprietors, for salary alleged to be due him for services as a cowboy in the circus. New York Clipper, November 9, 1889, p. 584.
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Cauble's Shows - 1915
Wanted for the Cauble Shows No. 1 and No. 2, Season 1915. People in all lines of the circus and wild west business. Have to let, side show and all outside privileges. Want pony trainer who can break and work in ring dogs, ponies and elephant. Want to buy air calliope, animals, light cages, harness. Address A. M. Cauble, Romance, Arkansas. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 6, 1915, p. 23.
• Albert Cauble was also proprietor of Monroe's Mighty Shows Combined with Buffalo Tom's Wild West, and Monroe Bros.
• Article on A. M. Cauble's shows of the early 1900s, and Albert Cauble's career, is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1962 (scroll down or use find).
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Century All Star Circus - 1991
The show opened in Edmondston, New Brunswick on May 6 and closed in Stephenville, Newfoundland on June 16. Bandwagon, January-February, 1992, p. 17.
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Chamberlain Circus or Chamberlaine
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1903-05.
• Chamberlaine's Triple Plate, a two-car show. Bandwagon, July-August, 1987, p. 4.
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R. M. Chambers' - 1911 may be Haight & Chambers'
On the night of June 10, before the opening of R. M. Chambers' One-Ring Circus in Kensington, Philadelphia, Pa., a cyclone swept over the town and stripped the big top almost to ribbons. Mr. Chambers comes from Washington, D.C., and is the first to exhibit Princess Wee Wee, the smallest woman in the world. Billboard, July 1, 1911, p. 26.
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Wash. Chambers' - 1860
• 1860: Information is online at Clipper, August 18, Clipper, September 1 (scroll down)
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Champlin & Mayo's - 1883
Wanted, Champlin & Mayo's Six Consolidated Shows. Will leave Cincinnati, Ohio, about Oct. 5, with our own steamboat, for the Southern country. Wanted, people, including gymansts and bar performers; concert people and also band people. Address Champlin & Mayo, William Mayo, manager, Cincinnati, O. New York Clipper, September 29, 1883, p. 463.
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Chapin & Co.'s - 1874
Chapin's Coloseum and Circus Comique is to commence a tour at Dubuque, Ia., May 20(?), and will travel by wagons. John M. Hickey will be the general agent, and B. Chapin, proprietor and manager. New York Clipper, April 4, 1874, p. 7.
B. Chapin & Co.'s Colosseum and Circus Comique. Proprietor, B. Chapin & Co.; manager, B. Chapin; general agent, John M. Hickey; assistant agent, Lee Strauss; press agent, James Fitzgerald; programme agent, Benjamin Kahn; chief billposter, Wm. Christin; leader of band, Wm. F. Allen, number of musicians, 16; master of canvas, James Morgan. Clowns, Chas. Steinau and Mark Johnson. Gymnasts, Dupont Brothers, the Parento Family, Sig. Francis Brotherton and son, Herminion and Master Whally. Specialists, Mlle. Josephine de Vannier, balancing, juggling act on bottles, and ascensionist; Sig. Francois Brotherton with troupe of trained birds; Parento Family, with troupe of trained Mexican dogs, five in number; Will C. Burton, Zouave drill and stage-manager. Number of tents used, one; men employed, 35. Proprietor of concert, B. Chapin. . . . New York Clipper, April 18, 1874, Supplement, n.p.n.
The Parento Family go to Dubuque, May 16, to join B. Chapin & Co.'s Circus. Lew and Dott Parento do a double trapeze act. New York Clipper, May 16, 1874, p. 55.
Cooper & Chapin's Colossal Golden Show and Universal Equestrian Congress is the name by which Chapin's Show will in the future be known. Joe Tinkham and wife have joined the company, and George W. Hall's California Exposition and Animal Show has been added. John M. Hickey is the general agent; Orrin Hall, assistant; George L. Alexander, chief billposter; and R. A. Hunt programme agent. New York Clipper, July 4, 1874, p. 111.
Chapin's Circus, after traveling for some five weeks in Wisconsin and doing a bad business, returned to Warren, Ill., and reorganized. Charles Cooper bought a half interest in the show, which is now known as Cooper & Chapin's Circus and Menagerie. The company: Joe Tinkham, pad and hurdle rider; Sig. Francois Brotherton, wire walker, juggler, balancer, and tight rope ascensionist,and his troupe of trained dogs; Master Charles Brotherton, aerial ascensionist; the Palmer Brothers and the Parento Brothers, acrobats and gymnasts; Mlle. Carlotta, juggler; Dot Parento, gymnast; Mattie Spears, comic vocalist; and Andy Spears and Curt ___, clowns. New York Clipper, July 11, 1874, p. 119.
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Charles Bros. Circus (Charles F. Moyer, or Meyer, owner)
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1974.
• Show was out in 1975. Bandwagon, January-February, 1976.
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Chase & Son Circus - 1937-38 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1937-38
1937: Chase and Son Circus, a motorized show, has a program of circus feature acts, equestriennes and menage riders, acrobats, aerial acts, tumblers and gymnasts, ponies and trained dogs and monkeys, and a great number of funny clowns. The clowns present, among other original numbers, the comic "Funny Ford," with real fireworks. At Fredricksburg, June 2. The News (Fredricksburg, IA), May 27, 1910, p. 4.
1938: Chase and Son Circus will be in Scandia, May 9. Art Mix, brother of Tom Mix, will be an attraction. Another feature is the troupe of performing pigs, in charge of Frank Kelsoe. . . . Scandia Journal (Scandia, KS), May 5, 1938, p. 1.
• An article on the 1937-38 Chase & Son Circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 4, pp. 21-26.
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Cherokee Ed's Wild West - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909
The formal opening of Cherokee Ed's Wild West and Trained Animal Shows took place in Louisville, Kentucky, June 19, to good business. The show is owned solely by Cherokee Ed, otherwise known as Lieut. Bert Edwards. "Texas Bob" Younger is in charge of the arena. The executive staff includes Thos. J. ___, general manager; W. J. Flynn, auditor; J. W. Campbell, general agent; Chas. Lynne Fellow, agent . . . Billboard, July 3, 1909, p. 18.
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Chiarini's Circus - 1860-69, 1873, 1875-76, 1879, 1880-82, 1886-87, 1889
• 1860: online at Clipper, January 14 and Clipper, February 11 (scroll down).
• 1861: online at:
• 1862: online at Clipper, March 8, Clipper, August 9 (scroll down)
• 1863: online at:
• 1864: online at Clipper, January 9, Clipper, February 13, Clipper, September 24 (scroll down)
• 1865: online at Clipper, February 18 (scroll down)
• 1866: online at:
• 1867: online at:
• 1868: online at:
• 1869: online at:
1873:
South Sea News. Australia and New Zealand. Chiarini's circus arrived by the Dakota, all safe and sound. The performances have extended over a fortnight at Auckland, and immensely crowded houses have been recorded nightly. Salt Lake Daily Tribune (UT), March 7, 1873, n.p.n.
1874:
This evening Chiarini's Royal Italian Circus will open at Wilson's Palace Amphitheatre. This circus has obtained a world-wide reputation, and since the last performance given in this city, over two years ago, has been in almost every civilized portion of the globe. The Fust Ya Ma Rocky Mountain Troupe of Japanese acrobats will be one of the great features of the entertainment. Mr. Chiarini has some thirty trained horses and ponies. Twenty-five star performers will appear nightly. There will be a matinee every Wednesday and Saturday. Daily Alta California (San Francisco, CA), December 21, 1874, p. 1.
1875:
Chiarini's Royal Italian Circus commenced a season at Wilson's Amphitheatre, San Francisco, Cal., Dec. 21. The company comprises twenty-five peformers, thirty trained horses and ponies, performing guanaco and monkeys, and the Fusi-Ya-Ma Japanese troupe of gymnasts. New York Clipper, January 2, 1875, p. 319.
Chiarini's Circus and Menagerie sailed for South America from New York City, in the steamship Ontario, Sept. 29. The company included Wooda Cook and his wife, nee Millie Tournier, Harry and Emma Clark, Romello and wife, Elijah Lengle, Fred Sylvester, Edward Watson, Dan Leon, Ted Almonte, Charles Lowry, Frank Clifford, Sig. Faranta, J. Elisler and manager Chiarini and wife. Their stock and animals consisted of sixteen horses, five ponies, two zebras, one buffalo, and a giraffe. New York Clipper, October 2, 1875, p. 215.
1876:
A letter written by Mrs. Marie Romelli, dated Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, April 9, we are informed that the members of Chiarini's Circus company are suffering severely from yellow fever. "Mrs. McCaffie, equestrienne, died recently of that disease; Signor Farranta and Jerry Bell are not expected to live through the night, one of the grooms and Goldsmith, an usher, are dead. Dan Leon, Laura Clard and manager Chiarini are ills with the disease, and are not expected to live." Eugene Romelli, with Chiarini's Circus, died of yellow fever in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, March 28(?), after an illness of five days. New York Clipper, June 3, 1876, p. 79.
1879:
Guiseppe Chiarini, proprietor of the Royal Italian Circus, and his manager, Lorenzo Maya, have arrived in this city from San Francisco, Cal. They are making arrangements for a tour of California and Australia. They exhibit only for a short season in California, and will leave for Australia Aug. 1. New York Clipper, June 7, 1879, p. 87.
San Francisco, Cal. Chiarini will open his circus and menagerie about Aug. 4. Dan Castello and Nellie Reed are members of his present company. New York Clipper, August 2, 1879, p. 150.
San Francisco . . . Chiarini's Circus Company comprises the Lee Family, seven in number, Nellie Reed, Jeanette Watson, Dave Costello, August Siegrist, Louis Durand, Watson Family, Mlle. Violette, Victorelli and Cardello, George Dunbar, Mons. Bartelo(?), A. Lehman, Sara Fergus and T. Servallos. New York Clipper, August 16, 1879, p. 166.
Chiarini's Royal Italian Circus has been doing immense business in San Francisco, Cal., since Aug. 7. The new tent is admirably adapted to the purpose and the seating arrangements are excellent. Seats are arranged to permit each spectator an uninterrupted view of the arena. The inner circus, bordering on the ring, is divided off into a series of private boxes, consisting of six large and comfortable arm chairs that sell at five dollars each. The next circus, at a slight elevation above the private boxes, is furnished with wide and easy camp chairs at one dollar each; them comes the gallery with rows of seats. Programme: Overture, "Light Cavalry," Joseph E. Green; "The Queen's Musketeers," by four ladies and four gentlemen, led by Chiarini on one of his Prussian stallions; la perche equipoise, Dunbar and Bartolo; somersault act on horseback, Lavater Lee; the Chilian colt Garibaldi, introduced by Miss Nellie Reed; the African zebras, educated by Fred Sylvester; Indian jugglery on horseback by Miss Rose Lee; entree comique by clowns Lehman, Siegrist and Durand; pirouette act on a bareback horse by David Costello; a horse mounted a la haute ecole by the English Amazon Miss Nellie Reed; aerial act by Miss Fergus and Signor Ceballos(?); equestian act by Miss Jeannette Watson; acts by the two Prussian stallions, Prince and Duke, introduced by trainer Signor Chiarini; laughable equestrian lightning changes by Fred Watson; horizontal bar by Victorelli and Cardello; buck-jumping by horse Monte Cristo, mounted by Chiarini; leaping and somersaulting by the entire company; exhibition of the Royal and Bengal tigers by trainer Geo. Wilson. Signor Agrati, the business manager of the troupe, sails for Australia Sept. 1, and the company will follow per City of New York 29. New York Clipper, August 23, 1879, p. 175.
Chiarini's Circus. Several performers left this show when it was about to sail from San Francisco, Cal., recently, for Australia, owing to the fact that they had been promised first-class passages, as they allege, and after their ___ had been put aboard the steamship, many of the troupe discovered that accommodations had been secured for them in the steerage. Among those who remained behind were Cardello and Victorelli; ___, ticket-taker; John McCullough, ringmaster; and Castello, bareback rider. New York Clipper, December 27, 1879, p. 315.
1880:
Chiarini's Circus, now exhibiting in Australia: The show exhibited in Auckland, New Zealand, on Dec. 4(?), to good business, in spite of bad weather. Three days at Nelson were profitable. Dec. 27 a storm set in, four quarter poles were instantly broken, and the next hour three more met a like fate. The canvas was torn to shreds. The show was to have exhibited at Christ Church Christmas week, from there going to Dunedin. They will reach Melbourne about the last week in January. James Holloway is with Chiarini's Circus. New York Clipper, January 17, 1880, p. 339.
Australia, May 20. Chiarini's Circus is to open 22. New York Clipper, July 3, 1880, p. 120.
Chiarini's Circus in Australia has collapsed. New York Clipper, January 15, 1881, p. 339.
1881:
Chiarini's Royal Italian Circus is reported as doing good business in India. New York Clipper, July 30, 1881, p. 306.
Deaths in Chiarini's Circus Company. A letter dated Singapore, Malay Peninsula, June 2, says: "Charles Warner, the tiger tamer, died of small pox in Calcutta; Mr. O'Brien died of fever in Java; Andy Johnson, boss canvasman, died of cholera in Penang; and Mrs. H. C. Lee, mother of the well-known Lee Family of California, died in giving birth to a son in Rangoon, British Burmah." New York Clipper, July 30, 1881, p. 306.
1882:
John J. Nathans, veteran showman, furnishes the list of artists with Chiarini's Royal Italian Circus, who commenced Nov. 29 a season in Madras, India: the Misses Nellie Reid, Emily Rolande, Emma Stoodly and Ada Stoodly, equestriennes; Mlle. Lotta, the "Lady with the Iron Jaw;" Mlle. Zazo, acrobat and gymnast; Lavater Lee, Fred Watson, Harry lee, Charles Stoodly and Master Charlie Watson, equestrians; the Faust Family (five in number), acrobats and musical clowns; French and Angelo, horizontal bar and trapeze, and knockabout clowns; the Walhalla Brothers, acrobats; August Lehman, clown; Signor Chiarini, with a stud of trained horses, and Harry Ager, the tiger tamer, with a den of performing Bengal tigers. The business staff: Signor G. Chiarini, proprietor; Lorenzo Maya, secretary and treasurer; Frank G. Wilson, advance agent; A. Polleri, ticket agent; Harry Lee, equestrian director; Jose Romano, asst. equestrian director; A. Dixon, musical director; Fred Kuhn, master of stable; J. W. Hagenah, master of pavilions; and Paul Fanchin, superintendent of animals. New York Clipper, January 14, 1882, p. 707.
Chiarini's Circus arrived in Bangkok, Siam, from Saigon, Cochin, China, Oct. 5, in a steamship specially chartered for that purpose. On the 16th and 17th performances were given before the King. . . . We played during April in Manilla and then went to Hong Kong, then to Shanghai. . . . New York Clipper, December 30, 1882, p. 670.
1886:
Tom Harper, his brother Will and Mabel Francis were with Chiarini's Circus at Tokio, Japan, at latest accounts. They write us that Chiarini's is the first foreign circus to appear in Tokio. French and Angelo, English clowns, and Emma Stadley quit the show at Yokohama and sailed for Australia. The Chiarini party were to remain in Tokio until Oct. 15. New York Clipper, October 23, 1886, p. 500.
1887:
The Harper Bros. and Mable Francis of Chiarini's Circus, writing from Shanghai, China, under date of July 1, says they opened a successful engagement there June 11. They spent the month of May with Yientsin. While playing there they were struck by a typhoon. Frank Godfrey, English clown, and Mlle. Norah, rider joined them. The Harper Bros. and Miss Francis leave them at Hong Kong Aug. 7. New York Clipper, August 6, 1887, p. 326.
1889:
San Francisco, Cal. Chiarini's Royal Italian Circus, after an absence of ten years, pitched its tent last night at Central Park. New York Clipper, November 9, 1889, p. 580.
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Chickering's New London Circus - 1883
Wanted for Chickering's Monster New London Circus, Hippodrome, and Allied Ring-Shows. Band six to ten pieces, equestrian director, clown, pad and bareback riders, and other ring performers; also boss canvasman, together with drivers, stock and fixtures for hippodrome and hurdle racing. Address, 21 West street, Boston, Mass. New York Clipper, April 21, 1883, p. 76.
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Walter Child's All Star Circus 1984
1984: The show played service club auditoriums in New England in the Spring. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 15.
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Circus Chimera - 1998
1998: Owned and produced by Jim Judkins, this was a new circus in 1998. The show opened in Texas in late April and headed West, reaching California in early June where it remained until the closing in late November. Bandwagon, March-April, 1999, p. 13.
• In 1999 Jim Judkins presented a program in February using the title El Circo del Millomarto. Bandwagon, March-April, 2000, p. 16.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1998-.
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Chinese Imperial Circus - 1996
The brainchild of D. R. Miller, the show opened in winter quarters at Hugo, Oklahoma in 1996. The show toured the Southwest, plains and mid-West States, Western Canada. Business was poor except in Canada, and the show closed at Rogers, Arkanas, September 29. Bandwagon, March-April, 1997, pp. 7-8.
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Chipperfield's Circus (England)
• An aricle on the 1953 Chipperfield Circus is in Bandwagon, October, 1953, pp. 12-13.
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Christ & Hough
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1926
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Christie & Leonard - 1913
Christie & Leonard Show - Florence & Leonard Christie, proprietors; G. W. Christie, manager; Mrs. G. W. Christie, treasurer; Mrs. Florence Christie, secretary; Chas. Densmore, auditor; H. O. Cuningham, general agent; Red Harris, railroad contractor; Pros. T. Nelson, sideshow manager; Robt. Landore, equestrian director; Chas. Densmore, superintendent privileges; Jack Walters, musical director; Eddie Mangiley, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Ed. Davidson, superintendent canvas; Rato.(?) Harris, boss hostler; Leonard Christie, superintendent commissary department; Charley Dickerson, superintendent lights; Will Hall, superintendent props; Bob Newton, blacksmith; Chas. D. Casto, announcer. Show opens at Henderson, N. C. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1913
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Christy Hippodrome Shows - 1918, 1919 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1913-1919
1918:
Galveston, Tex., Jan. 5. The Christy Hippodrome Shows are now in their old winter quarters at Fifty-ninth and D streets here, after a season of forty weeks, the route extending from the Gulf to Canada and back thru eleven States. The show covered 12,108 miles, opened with a funeral (burying a colored pony boy the morning the show opened), and experienced a lot of working men shortages and two blowdowns, but only made two changes in the roster all season. Four members of the show enlisted in the army and navy and six were drafted. The early part of the season was bad on account of so much rain, but the books show the past season to be the biggest on record for this circus.
J. A. Dobeck, comedy juggler, after closing a season of thirty-nine weeks with the Christy Hippodrome Show, is back in Wisconsin playing vaudeville. Billboard, February 2, 1918, p. 31.
G. W. Christy, manager of the Christy Hippodrome Shows, having received his classification card, which leads him to believe that he will soon be called to the colors, has sold his show to E. H. Jones. Mr. Jones will open the show about March 1, and will retain the title of Christy Shows. Billboard, February 16, 1918, p. 61.
Clarence Auskings is still general agent for Alex C. Jones' New Christy Hippodrome Shows, which will open at Galveston, Tex., March 1. Walter Yeager has charge of the advance with three men. J. A. Dobeck, comedy juggler, has been with the Christy Hippodrome Show, is visiting his home folks in Milwaukee, Wis. Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 29.
Winter quarters, 1918. Christy Hippodrome Shows. Alex. Jones, manager; 59th & D sts., Glaveston, Tex. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 124.
Christy Hippodrome Shows. E. H. Jones, proprietor; Alex Jones, manager; Clarence Auskings, general agent; Jacob Friedman, manager sideshow. Show opened at Galveston, Tex., March 1. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 64.
G. W. Christy is re-opening the Original Christy Hippodrome Shows near Omaha, Neb., June 15. He plans to stay out until Christmas. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 27.
R. A. Williams and Roy Norman joined the advance forces of the Christy Hippodrome Shows recently. Billboard, August 10, 1918, p. 25.
The first six weeks out the Christy Hippodrome Shows did little business, but the tide has turned and we are now packing them in. We played two towns in different States in one day recently. Played Beach, N.D. for a matinee August 22, loaded and moved to Glendlove, Mont., for a night show the same day. We encountered a hail storm the nigth before at Ollie, Mont., which blew everything away, causing a lot of work repairing and sewing in addition to setting up twice in one day. Palmer and Palmer joined at Sheridan with their big musical act for the concert. They also double in the band. Bessie Rhoades is "cleaning up" with the banner privilege. Prof. Goodhart fell off a loaded wagon fracturing his ankle. Baby Barlow had a birthday party the 26th. Mr. Rialde(?) just finished decorating the sides of our cars with "War Savings Stamps," "Buy Liberty Bonds," "Save Wheat, Meat, etc." The cars look like a government billboard. - Sid. Billboard, September 7, 1918, p. 24.
Christy Hippodrome Notes. R. A. Williams, billposter, closed at Las Vegas, N.M., and left for his home at Holdrege, Neb. Roy Norman also left for some point in Nebraska. Frank Cook late of the Sells-Floto Circus, joined the advance at Las Vegas. Frank McQuyer, late of the Gentry Show, is back home on the Christy show. Bobby Zenero, from the Great Eastern Hippodrome Shows, joined at Amarillo, Tex. Also Jake Friedman got the pit show from the same attraction. J. A. Todd, billposter, late of the E. H. Jones and Hugo Bros. Shows, joined the advance at Wichita Falls, Tex. Billboard, November 16, 1918, p. 26.
Silsbee, Tex., Dec. 20. The Christy Hippodrome Shows will bring its 1918 season to a close here December 30, and will again winter in Galveston. The advance forces have disbanded and some gone their respective ways. Clarence Auskins, general agent, left for his home in Mt. Vernon, Ohio, for the winter. J. A. Todd, billposter, left for Shreveport, La. and J. T. Blessington, billposter will winter in Houston, Texas. Billboard, December 28, 1918, p. 54.
Clarence Auskings recently closed the season with the Christy Hippodrome Shows in Texas, his sixth season with that attraction. The season of 1919 will find Auskings as general agent with the William Campbell's new two-car show, which opens from Evansville, Wis., early in February. Billboard, January 11, 1919, p. 29.
• Also see Great Eastern Hippodrome.
1919:
2-Car Circus for sale cheap, or will sell anything separate. 62-ft. sleeper, 62-ft. baggage car, four truss rods, possum belly, new steel wheels, etc. Tangley calliope, mounted on miniature band wagon; 20x55-ft. khaki pit show top, $75.00, with white walls, no poles; 70-ft. Baker & Lockwood dramatic tip, with one 30 or 40-ft. middle, waterproof, no wall or side poles, has steel center poles, $300.00, stored in Chicago; lot pit show banners, 20x30 tent, $10.00; two sets band uniforms, parade banners, bass drum, ponies, goats. Am taking out larger show reason for selling. Christy Shows, Galveston, Texas. Billboard, January 11, 1919, p. 57.
Jake Friedman states that he closed with the Christy Hippodrome Shows December 31, as manager of the pit show and Oriental department and has opened a museum in Galveston, Texas. He has again been engaged for the Christy attraction for the 1919 season that opens about February 15. Billboard, January 18, 1919, p. 29.
Everything is buzzing around winter quarters of the Christy Hippodrome Shows at Galveston, Tex. Veo Powers is working on a new monkey act and a new goat act, as well as the old pony numbers and his White Models posing act, featuring Morning Glory, a snow white Arabian horse. Manager Christy has secured a Bactrian camel, a new sleeping car, nine monkeys, a number of Gentry Bros.' miniature cages and Col. J. C. O'Brien's 82 foot steel under-frame baggage car. Col. O'Brien had this car built several years ago at a cost of $10,000, and it is the only baggage car in show business equipped with a (real) sttel underframe. A number of the old people with again be with the show this spring. The Barlow Family is at The Seawall City. Bobby Zenaro is working on a new free act, rigging, wardrobe, etc. Charles Nelson is cooking up some new clown gags. Charley is training a giant Ibex goat, weighing about 250 pounds, to butt him in the gag. Everett James will direct the band this year, while his family will work in the big show program. Palmer and Palmer are playing a few vaudeville houses while the show is in winter quarters. Jack Levere will have charge of the sideshow. Jack Friedman will handle the big pit show and his Oriental palace. S. V. Campbell has been engaged as brigade manager and will have entire charge of the billing. C. R. Shelton will have all the privileges, stands, etc., and is at home in St. Louis. He will have three assistants with him. - Sid. Billboard, February 8, 1919, p. 28.
Doc Kline and wife are new additions to Jake Friedman's oriental department with the Christy Hippodrome Shows. Billboard, April 26, 1919, p. 37.
Want musicians, circus acts, clowns, sideshow man to make opening, and inside acts, comedy acts to strengthen big show. Trombone and cornet wire Everett James, bandmaster. Seat man and assistant boss canvasman, wire Joe Quinlan, supt. Christy Shows, Hardin, Montana. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 17, 1919, p. 85.
Jake Friedman has added a large baboon to his pit show with the Christy Circus. Alva Smith and Mable Hill, oriental dancers, joined at Grand Forks, N.D. Ethel Delmar is still with it. Billboard, August 9, 1919, p. 45.
Heber Shows, George Christy, owner and manager, is a two-car show, carries fourteen performers, and eight piece band under the direction of Everett James, air calliope, and a collection of animals. George Christy owned the Christy Hippodrome Shows and sacrificed it on account of the draft and the war, even to the name. Next year he will have a six car show. The Heber Show is headed for Colorado, will make some stands in Nebraska and Wyoming, and then South for the fall, closing on the gulf the first of next year. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 44.
G. W. Christy, manager of the Christy Railroad Shows, purchased the Cardonia elephant act from the John Robinson Circus. He also bought other animals, draft horses, zebras, etc. to make up a carload, which will be expressed from the Hagenbeck-Wallace winter quarters at West Baden, Ind., to Galveston, Tex., the Christy Show quarters. They will be added to the Christy menagerie, which is to be enlarged for next season. The Christy Circus is still on the road, but will close January 1, as ususal, re-opening March 1 at Galveston. Billboard, December 27, 1919, p. 89.
• More on the 1919 Christy Hippodrome show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
• More information on the 1919 show, online in Bandwagon, April 1945.
• Articles on the career of George W. Christy and his shows are in:
• This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Christy Bros. - 1920, 1923, 1925, 1927, 1930 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1920-1930
1920: Christy Bros.' Greater United Shows: G. W. Christy, proprietor and manager; L. C. Christy, treasurer, Harry Bowman, general agent; Ed Shaw, local contractor; Walter McCorkill, special agent; Denny Helm, supt. side show canvas; Harry Novack, supt. pit show No. 1 canvas; John Sousa, supt. pit show No. 2 canvas; Sam Bennett, equestrian director; Joe Quinlan, general supt.; C. ?. Shelton, supt. privileges; Everett James, musical director; H. Monroe, supt. reserved seat tickets; Chas. McNey, supt. canvas; E. Richardson, supt. commissary dept.; Harry Miles, supt. lights; Chas. Snyder, supt. props.; Wm. Harris, supt. ring stock; Tex Ray, supt. stock; Harry Clark, supt. elephants; Chas. Nelson, boss carpenter; Lynn Tyler, supt. animals; Jake Friedman, manager pit show No. 1; James Fry, manager pit show No. 2; Robt. Boyd, checker-up. Show opened at Galveston, Tex., March 1. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
1923: Webb City, Missouri, April 28. May 4, the Christy Brothers four-ring animal circus will show here for one day. The Christy circus has been wintering at Houston, Texas, coming through here on a tour to northern states. The show carries twenty-five carloads of stock and 600 persons. A street parade will be given during the morning. Joplin Globe (Joplin, MO), April 29, 1923, p. 9.
1925: In 1925 George W. Christy expanded his show to 20 cars. Winter quarters in 1924 were at the old Gates Handle Factory in Beaumont, Texas, where Tom Tucker constructed eleven new cage wagons. Bandwagon, July-August, Vol. 14, No. 4, 1970, p. 12.
1927: Christy Bros. played Texas from October 28 to November 10. Lee Smith was the clown cop. Everett James was bandmaster. Bandwagon, March-April, 1968, p. 27.
• An article on the 1928 Christy Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 3, pp. 4-12.
• An article on the 1930 show, the final year, is online in Bandwagon, January 1952.
• Diagram of and information on the Christy Bros. winter quarters at South Houston, Texas, is in Bandwagon, August, 1943, Vol 2, No. 5, p. 4.
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James Christy Circus - 1959-1960 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1959-1960
Information in this show is online in "High Grass and Miller Magic," in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1969 (scroll down or use find).
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Cinicelli's Circus - 1882-83
1882:
Charles F. Reed and family are still performing with Cinicelli's Circus in St. Petersburg, Russia. The company numbers nearly one hundred, and includes five male and seven female equestrians. The Hanlon-Voltas are now there. The Reeds have been with the show nearly two years. New York Clipper, March 25, 1882, p. 8.
1883:
Carlos Dashaway and wife (Minnie Perry) and the Four Aubreys opened the Circus Ciniselli, St. Petersburg, Russia, April 7, for two months. New York Clipper, April 21, 1883, p. 70.
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Circle C Ranch Wild West - 1912
Roster of the Circle C Ranch Wild West: L. R. Clark, manager and adjuster; A. T. Clark, general agent; Prof. Charles, band director. Performers and riders: Leonard Stroud, Burt Kelley, W. H. Littleton, Joe Hepstall, Frank Anderson, Pearl Clark, Eugenie Clark, Thos. Giddings, Three Hardig Bros., comedy jugglers and clowns; Teddy Black has charge of privileges. Thirty head of stock and ten wagons are carried. A heavy wind and rain storm struck the show at Millerton, Oklahoma, June 13 and tore the canopy and side walls to pieces. Fortunately no one was hurt. Another storm came up at Valliant, Oklahoma, June 17 and blew top and walls and wagons off the lot, killing two head of stock, one being the famous bucking mare, Oklahoma Queen. Billboard, June 29, 1912, p. 39.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, Lee R. Clark, manager, circa 1911-12.
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Circle D Wild West - 1909
Dickey's Circle D Ranch Wild West Show, W. A. Dickey, manager, opened its season April 24. It will be a feature of the Riverview Exposition in Chicago, opening May 12 for the entire season. Sixty people form its roster. New York Dramatic Mirror, May 1, 1909, p. 14.
1914:
Call, advance people, Circle D Ranch and Cooper Bros.' Shows. Report at St. James Hotel, St. Louis, Mo., April 14. Harry W. Lake, car manager; William Lynch, boss billposter, E. L. Brannan, general agent. Billboard, April 11, 1914, p. 69.
Billy and Milly Lindemann and the Three Nelsons (Peter, Louise and Theo.) will be found with the Circle D. Ranch Wild West, combined with Cooper Bros.' Famous Shows. The Lindemanns will do their slack wire bicycle and unicycle riding act, while the Nelsons will do their triple Roman ring act. Billboard, April 25, 1914, p. 31.
General Valeo, Mexican General of the Army, with a detachment of Mexican soldiers. First time in America. Will appear daily with the Great Cooper Bros.' United Shows and the Circle D Ranch Wild West that is to exhibit at Hawarden on June 6th. See them in the big free street parade.
Wanted, for Circle D Ranch W. W. and Cooper Bros.' Shows. Musicians to strengthen big show band, clarinet, bass drum, slide and alto. Cowboys that are stock riders and good ropers. Few good circus acts, clowns and rubes. Boss canvasman for sideshow, two six-horse drivers and workingmen. W. A. Dickey, manager, Dewitt, Iowa, 26; Belle Plaine, Iowa, 27; Tama, Iowa, 30th. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 30, 1914, p. 59.
Reports have been received from various persons
that the Circle D Ranch closed July 8 at Niobrara, Neb., and that the stock is being shipped to Omaha, Neb., to be sold. The wagons and rolling stock will be left at Niobrara, as they belong to John Robinson. The cars are said to belong to the Venice Transportation Co. Billboard, July 18, 1914, p. 28.
• Owner, W. A. Dickey. Show opened April 25, 1914, closed July 6th. Bandwagon, May-June, 1968, p. 24.
• A 1914 partial route for the Circle D Ranch Wild West and Cooper Bros. Famous Shows Combined is Online.
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Circle V Wild West & Hippodrome - 1909
Circle V Wild West and Hippodrome showed at Asheville, Ohio, to excellent business. The outfit consists of Claude and Albert LePearl, novelty aerial act; Texana and Reynolds, rifle experts; Colorado Kids, fancy roping; Montana Dick and Freshwater Jack, bronco busters; Stella Montgomery, Margaret Rose and Cecil Quickert, cowgirls; Tex, high diving dog; Windy Dare, horse-show king; Adam Rehl, rube; Roughneck Red, horse theif, Schnider,cookhouse tramp, and Claud Hutchinson, trapeze. The show commenced playing fairs at Zanesville, Ohio, August 24. Billboard, September 4, 1909, p. 20.
The Circle V Wild West and Hippodrome has changed hands. Mr. Van Fosen(?) selling out to Ed. A. Hauck, of Columbus, Ohio. The show will be known hereafter as Texana's Wild West, Lou Reynolds, manager. Mr. Hauck has added his high school horse, Golden Rule, to the show, also a cowboy band, consisting of eight peices. The show joined Hatch's Carnival Company at Delaware, Ohio, week of September 5. Billboard, September 18, 1909, p. 18.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America for 1909
• Note: Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses lists a Circle U Wild West & Hippodrome, no date.
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Circorama - 1983
• Norbert Kreisch produced this arena show in 1983. Bandwagon, January-February, 1984, p. 13.
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Circus & Menagerie Exhibition United - 1839
Joseph S. M. Hobby. (Manager.) respectfully announces to the Ladies and Gentlemen of Gettysburg and its vicinity, that the above celebrated establishment will visit Gettysburg, with their fine collection of Animals, and beautiful Stud of Horses, and Company of Equestrians, who stand unrivalled in their profession, on Thursday the 22d inst., for one day only. Hours of Exhibition from 1 to 5. P. M. Admittance 50 cts., Children, half price.
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Clarion Bros. Circus - 1925
Clarion Bros. Circus toured in 1925. Bandwagon, July-August, 1985, p. 8.
• Clarion Bros. is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1925, George Engesser, owner.
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Al G. Clark Circus - 1974
• 1974, was the former Dailey Bros. Circus. Bandwagon, January-February, 1975.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1974-1980, Jack Gobble, owner.
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Carl Clark's - 1918-19, 1920 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1912-1926
1918:
Wanted quick for the Carl Clark Wagon Show. Singing and talking clown, one that can do two or more acts. Other performers write quick. Prof. Carl Clark, proprietor; T. R. McAvey, manager; Morris, N.Y., June 8; Gilbertsville, N.Y., June 9; Mt. Upton, N.Y., June 10. [Advertisement] Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 25.
1919:
Syracuse, N.Y., April 18. Winter quarters of the Carl Clark's Great Show at the New Driving Park, preparing for the opening of the twelfth annual tour, which will begin May 10. Gold and red will predominate. A 110 foot round top, with a 50 foot middle piece will be used. The following acts are in the big show: Clyde Horsington, principal and producing clown, with the assistance of Johnny Dale, Harry Eldridge, Carl Metz and Billy Worthington; Kenmore Sisters (three) and the Famous Judges, aerial acts; DeSanta's Troupe of wire walkers; Jackson Bros. and Hale, comedy bars; Carl Clark, performing dogs and ponies; Clyde Horsington, talking and singing mule; Viola Wiles and Mrs. Clyde Horsington, menage high school and fancy driving, and Famous Bedell Family of acrobats (six). Blackey Welch, boss canvasman with ten assistants; Jim Ryan, boss hostler; William Brown, in charge of ponies with six assistants; John Burch, in charge of dogs; Roscoe Sullivan, props; Evertt Henne, bandmaster with band of twelve pieces; William C. Couchman, candy stand and privileges; Thomas Earl Murray, general agent with four billposters. Billboard, April 26, 1919, p. 34.
The Carl H. Clark Show has been enjoying prosperity in New York and Pennsylvania since starting out May 10. At Waymart, Pa., a few of the band boys were invited to play at a resort hotel on Sunday. An automobile was engaged and on their way to the hotel, the auto skidded and turned turtle, throwing all occupants down a rocky embankment. Frank Kelly had his face and head badly cut. Frank P. Meister, of Norwood, Ohio, was badly bruised. Roy C. Chambers, of Boston, Mass., had his and and knee cut. Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 45.
Carl H. Clark's Trained Animal Circus in winter quarters at Chambersburg, Pa., will open about the middle of April and tour Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut and Massachusetts. The past season was a successful one of twenty-three weeks, opening at Minoa, N.Y., May 10. Four States were covered, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Three new wagons will be added for its next tour, making it a twelve wagon outfit. Prof. Clark is training seven dogs and four ponies to add to his large number of trained animals. - Everett Henne. Billboard, November 22, 1919, p. 54.
• More on the 1919 Carl Clark's show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
1920:
Carl H. Clark's Trained Animal Circus: Carl H. Clark, proprietor and manager; Gus Freer, assistant manager; Ola Wiles, secretary and treasurer; Percy B. Karper, general agent; Roy Coak, local contractor; Oscar Williams, special agent; Percy Lewis, Jack Moran, press agents; Don Henne, equestrian director; August Kanerva, supt. reserved seat tickets; Charles Riley, supt. canvas; Earl Freer, boss hostler; Leon Hart, supt. commissary dept.; Robert Johnson, supt. lights; Eddie Winters, supt. props.; William Taylor, supt. ring stock; Harry Williams, supt. stock; John F. Dicky, supt. work crew; 14 wagons. Opens Chambersburg, Pa., April 17. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
Carl Clark's Shows containing more than half a hundred educated dogs and ponies will appear in Cooperstown, June 23d. Free street parade at 1:30 o'clock. Beautiful ponies, dogs, fine mules and perfect draft horses. Also the clown ponies, Daisy and Pansy, the clown dogs, Tony and Babe, and the clown mules, Woodrow and Teddy. Also a lot of human clowns. Satan, the pony with a human brain, will multiply, subtract, add, pick out any color at command and tell the exact time by the watch. Otsego Farmer & Republican (Cooperstown, NY), June 18, 1920, p. 4.
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Eugenia Clark Show - 1923
Advertised for personnel and animals. Billboard, January 6, 1923, p. 74. Also see Billboard, August 11, 1923, p. 78.
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G. Clark's - 1892-93
1892: Buffalo, New York. Clark's Circus is playing the suburbs to fair business. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 360.1893: Prof. G. Clark's One Ring Circus will begin its season at Medina, N.Y., Aug. 1?. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
1893:
Prof. G. Clark's One Ring Circus opens Aug. 4(?), at Medina, N.Y. Prof G. Clark is proprietor and manager, and carries a canvas with 80(?)ft. round top, and a band of five pieces. The features of the show are Smith and Anderson, the aerial performers, and Prof. Sanderson's dog and monkey circus. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 312.
On the road, circuses: Prof. G. Clark's, Buffalo NY Aug 16, Sandy Hill 18. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 379.
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M. L. Clark's - 1894, 1896-97, 1906, 1910-14, 1918-19, 1930 M. L. Clark & Son's listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1883-1930, 1943, 1945-46
• An article on the M. L. Clark shows, with biographical information on M. L. Clark & family, is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1965
1894: Notes from M. L. Clark's Oriental Circus. - M. L. Clark's Oriental Circus is in Winter Quarters at Oberlin, La., getting everything ready for May. M. L. Clark, proprietor and manager, has just returned from Chicago with eight dapple gray horses, one band wagon, four cages, two chariots, and one ticket wagon. The show will travel by wagon, with eighty head of stock, fifteen wagons, and two covered hacks. It will have one hundred foot round top with forty foot middle, two horse tents, one dressing room, and thirty foot round top. Performers and musicians will stop at hotels. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 103.
1896:
Notes from M. L. Clark's Circus. The show is doing good business through Louisiana. Roster: M. L. Clark, proprietor and manager; R. D. Parker, treasurer; Harry James, bandmaster; G. V. Parsons, steward; Old George Deafey, boss canvasman; Ed Coney, boss properties. The band: Harry James, Sam Barnet, Levi, Joe Knox, Frank Morris, Joe Richard and Mexia. Performers: Bob Ronalzo, Joe Richard, M. L. Clark's dogs and ponies, Will St. Arno, Bob Parker, Harry Debell, Wild Bill, rifle expert; Mrs. Harry James, Hattie Richard, Ella Ronalzo, Josie St. Arno, Pearl Clark, Annie James, Lee Clark and Mrs. Fannie Clark. New York Clipper, February 15, 1896, p. 793.
Notes from Clark's Big Wagon Shows. We have passed through Mississippi and are now ready to leave Tennesse, when we will go through Arkansas into Missouri for the Summer months. S. P. Bowman's sideshow is a feature, as is Little Pearl Clark's contortion act in the big show. The child is only four years, seven months old. New York Clipper, May 30, 1896, p. 200.
Notes from the M. L. Clark Shows. We are in Southern Missouri. Our roster includes nearly all new people: Geo. Wombold and son, Hattie and Joe Richards, Chas. Talbert, Bob Parker . . . and Little Pearl Clark. We are starting South and will work Kentucky, Tennessee and Mississippi this Fall and Winter. New York Clipper, August 8, 1896, p. 357.
M. L. Clark's Big Wagon Show is touring Mississippi. We have received our new thirty foot dressing room top. Levy, baritone player, and Sam Martin and C. Hobbs joined our band last week. M. L. Clark is proprietor and manager; Joe Richard, equestrian director; Jim Wade, boss properties; Big John, boss hostler; Chas. Wood, boss canvasman; Herny Slate, Wombolt and son, Talbert, Moss, juggler; Joe and Hattie Richard, Amy De Calb, Billy De Calb, Pearl Clark, Bob Parker, George and Willie La Belle and M. L. Clark's ponies and dogs. New York Clipper, October 3, 1896, p. 489.
1897:
Notes from Clark's Big Wagon Shows. Our roster consists of the following performers: Geo. Wambold and son, Tom Moss, Floyd Trover, Chas. Talbert, Albert and Grace Powell, Hattie and Joe Richards, Bob Parker, and M. L. Clark and his troupe of performing horses and dogs. The band: H. K. James, Frank Morris, Hughey George, W. H. Shade, John Moth and Chas. Burch. . . . New York Clipper, January 16, 1897, p. 733.
M. L. Clark has signed Floyd Trover, Albert and Grace Powell, Joe and Hattie Richards, Charles Casey, George Wombold and son, Robert Parker and Wm. Rogers. New York Clipper, March 27, 1897, p. 60.
1906:
Notes from Col. M. L. Clark Combined Shows. - This show closed the longest and most successful season in its history in a blaze of glory, at Mobile. Ala., March 1. It has been a notable one in many respects. We opened March 7, a year ago, having lost but four stands, and did not have an accident of any description. We traveled 3,891 miles, and visited Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, Florida and Alabama. On account of the immense crowds attending the Mardi Gras festivities we were compelled to prolong our engagement, and on Mardi Gras days gave three performances, and then were not able to accommodate them. Our elephants, camels and entire menagerie and parade were used by the Mardi Gras people in their parades, and the animals were decorated as they never were before. This is the first instance in the history of Mardi Gras that animals were used in the festivities. Hereafter, our animals will be a feature of King Felix's parades during Mardi Gras, and will add greatly in assisting Mobile to sustain her title of "The Mother of Mystics." At the termination of our engagement we transferred the show to Capt. Alba's homestead, and mechanics and painters were put to work repairing, painting and regilding everything which will be retained for next season. Six new baggage wagons, four cages, a pair of leopards and a puma were received last week. A car load of draught and ring stock was also received from Col. Clark's Texas ranch. Three more new cages are in course of construction in the Sullivan & Eagle shops, and will be ready for early delivery. We will have new big menagerie, side show, cook, dressing and horse tops, all of which will be equipped with the improved lights. We open the season in Mobile, 20, and as in the past, will sustain our reputation as the largest and finest equipped circus of its kind in the world. New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114.
1910:
Following is a list of performers with Clark & Sons Combined Shows: Robt. M. Pierece, equestrian director; Three DeForst Bros., casting and comedy acrobatic act; T. W. Bryan, mule hurdle rider and clown; Christ and Pearl LaComa, double trapeze and swinging ladder; Thos. Moss, juggler and wire walker; Chas. Johnson, bounding rope artist and hoop roller; Corine Johnson, single trapeze; ??? Rogan and Lee Clark, trick riders and ropers; Edna Clark, contortionist; Walter Garland, Obey St. Clergy and Bob Ronalso, clowns. "Circus Gossip," Billboard, November 19, 1910, p. 21.
1911: Jas. Grayson, clown, and Willie Clark, head balancer, closed with the M. L. Clark & Son's Show, October 28. Mrs. M. L. Clark recently made a trip to Alexandria, La., where she placed her youngest daughter in school for the winter. Chas. Lile(?) now has charge of the sideshow. General agent Len Goheen was back on the show at Dardanelle, Ark., October 30, accompanied by his wife and daughter, who were returning to their home in Coffeyville, Kan., after a week's visit with him on the advance. A complete new layout of horse tents and a new middle piece for the big top were received at Ola, Ark. Howard Bonheur of Bonheur Bros. was a visitor at Dardanelle. Billboard, November 25, 1911, p. 27.
1912: M. L. Clark and Sons Show - M. L. Clark, prop.; Lee Clark, mgr.; E.R. Parliman, treas.; Nat. C. Robinson, general agent; Orbe Ramsey, local contractor; Nat. C. Robinson, contracting press agent; Christ. LaComa, supt. side show; Doc(?) Grant, equestrian director; Lee Clark, general supt.; W. W. Clark, supt. privileges; Simon Smits, musical director; E. R. Parliman, supt. reserved seat tickets; M. Gallager, supt. canvas; A. T. Clark, boss hostler; J. D. Giliam, supt. lights; M. Gallagher, supt. working crew; Black Badger, supt. elephants; H. T. Coffee, legal adjuster and announcer. Show opened at Alexandria, La., March 18. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
1913: M. L. Clark & Sons' Show - M. L. Clark, proprietor and manager; Lee Clark, assistant manager; E. R. Paremon, treasurer and secretary; H. C. Long, general agent; W. E. Brown, S. H. Clark and J. W. Fuller, G. W. Pagett, F. Sauers and Will Roark, bill posters; H. C. Long, press agent; Chas. Lyles sideshow manager; Ray Woods, equestrian director; Lee Clark, superintendent privileges; J. H. Hartley, musical director; Shanty Coleman, superintendent canvas; Bill Gardner, boss hostler; Chris. LaComa, superintendent commissary department; W. W. Banks, superintendent lights; Will Fisher, superintendent props; Henry Loffey 24-hour agent; Al. Randall, superintendent elephants; Dutch Whity, superintendent animals; R. R. Moss, legal adjuster; Rob Rankins, announcer. Show opened at Dona Ana, N. M., March 8. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1914: M. L. Clark & Son's Show. M. L. Clark & Son, proprietors; M. L. Clark, manager; Lee Clark, asst. manager; Mrs. M. L. Clark, treasurer; E. R. Parliman, secretary; H. C. Long, general agent; Chas. Lyles, manager sideshow; Ed. Glenn, equestrian director; M. L. Clark, general supt.; Lee Clark, supt. privileges; Fred Brunke, musical director; Mrs. M. L. Clark, supt. reserved seat tickets; Obie St. Clergy, supt. canvas; Geo. Miller, boss hostler; Ed. Enert, supt. commissary dept.; Frank Williams, supt. lights; Dutch Worthington, supt. props; Geo. Miller, supt. stock; Obie St. Clergy, supt. working crew; Wm. Gardner, supt. elephants & animals; M. L. Clark, legal adjuster; Chas. Lyles, announcer. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
1918:
Billy Reid went with the M. L. Clark & Sons Show when it left Alexandria, La., following the holidays. Billboard, January 19, 1918, p. 29.
M. L. Clark & Son's Shows, since leaving Alexandria, La., the winter quarters, after a short layoff during the holidays, have had nice business. Only four performances were lost. The Alton Family left the show two weeks ago to play houses. Lewis Morris and wife have taken their place, doing two acts each, besides working their troupe of trained monkeys. Sid Kridello has a new act with his dog Prince in conjunction with his wire. Johnny Ryan is assisting in the clown numbers, also working in the concert. The roster: M. L. Clark, general manager; Lee Clark, secretary-treasurer; Red Lumpkin, tickets and front door; J. H. Blair, big show ticket wagon; Charles Long, privileges, with two assistants, P. Rogers and S. Robertson (Mr. Long has added two two-ton trucks to transport the stores form town to town); T. H. Hicks, superintendent of lights; Shorty Halliday, cookhouse, with two assistants; Mart Smith, superintendent of big top with five assistants; Denny Higgins, superintendent of seats with two assistants; Bill Gardner bulls and menagerie, with two assistants; H. Lewis Morris, equestrian director; Leslie, Ryan and Kridello, clowns; Shorty Glenn, ponies; Humpty, boss props; F. H. Tillman, band director, with a ten piece band. Billboard, February 23, 1918, p. 28.
Alexandria, La., March 15. The M. L. Clark & Son's Shows arrived in winter quarters here after a successful winter season. After a week or ten days' layoff, the organization will take the road for a summer trip. Mr. Clark has added six auto trucks and four passenger automobiles, the latter to transport some of the musicians and performers. He has also added three new cages for the animals purchased at the Cole Bros.' Circus sale, two camels, one lion, two bears and one hyena. This brings the menagerie up to ten cages. Lewis Morris and wife, Sid Kridello, wire walker, and Fred Leslie and Johnny Ryan, producing clowns, have been re-engaged. The Manteons Troupe of seven people have been signed to do five acts. Mrs. Pearl LaComa will do perch and swinging ladder. Archie Dunlap has been engaged to take charge of the elephants and menagerie. Mrs. Dunlap will handle the pit show and snakes. The management plans to have a fifteen piece band in addition to an air calliope. Mart Smith wil have the big top; Denny Higgins, seats; J. Hicks, lights; C. D. Long, privileges, with two assistants. - Leslie. Winter quarters, 1918, M. L. Clark & Son's Show. M. L. Clark & Sons, proprietors (out all winter); Alexandria, La. Billboard, March 23, 1918, pp. 64, 124.
M. L. Clark & Son's Shows. M. L. Clark & Son, proprietors; M. L. Clark, manager; Lee Clark, secretary-treasurer; H. Lewis Morris, equestrian director; Charles Long, supt. privileges; F. H. Tillman, music director; Mart Smith, supt. canvas; T. H. Hicks, supt. lights; "Humpty," supt. props; Bill Gardner, supt. elephants. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 64.
The M. L. Clark & Son's Shows inaugurated their summer tour at Tioga, La., March 30, after a three weeks' layoff in winter quarters at Alexandria, La. One of the offerings deserving special mention is Lew Morris' monkey act as a laugh producer. Willie Clark kicks a barrel and cross. Johnnie Ryan is producing clown and Mart Smith is superintendent. Program: No. 1, Tournament. No. 2, Clown song, Ryan. No. 3, Riding monk, Lee Derrick. No. 4, Wire equilibrist, Mr. Morris. No. 5, Double trapeze, Mr. and Mrs. Willie Clark. No. 6, Clowns, Ryan, Sidney and Echo. No. 7, Rolling globe, Morris and Morris. No. 8, Single trapeze, Willie Clark. No. 9, Clowns, pantomime ball. No. 10, Dog act, Kridello. No. 11, Contortion, Madame Floret. No. 12, Clowns' renunion. No. 13, Elephant act, worked by Archie and Madlle Clark. No. 14, Foot juggling, Willie Clark. No. 15, Pony drill, Prof. Derrick. No. 16, Morris Monkey Circus. No. 17, Swinging wire novelty, Sid Kridello. No. 18, January, Prof. Derrick and Ryan. Executive staff: Lee Clark, manager; Mrs. Lee Clark, treasurer; Red Lufkins, front door; Mart Smith, boss canvasman; Archie Dunlap, bulls; "Shorty" Harding, supt. props; Prof. Derrick, equestrian director; Frank Tillman, musical director; Mr. Liles, side show manager; Mrs. Liles, ducats; Red Lufkin, second openings. Mrs. Liles also does a blackface turn in the big show concert. Fred Leslie, funny fat clown, has gone back to his "old home" with J. Augustus Jones. Fred Warren, musician, left the day before the show opened for his "home" on the Sells-Floto Circus. Sid Kridello. Billboard, April 13, 1918, p. 28.
Route, M. L. Clark Circus, Summit, Miss., 26; Magnolia 27. Billboard, April 27, 1918, p. 79.
The M. L. Clark & Son's Shows crossed the Mississippi River at Vidalia, La., April 17, and are now in Mississippi. Business has been good except Jena, La., which was a bloomer. Show has Ned and Mena, the two gigantic elephants. Billboard, May 4, 1918, p. 30.
The M. L. Clark & Son Shows have jumped back into Mississippi after playing the berry country of Louisiana. The Great Montecon Troupe, a family of six Mexican performers, joined recently, and are offering five big show acts. Another latecomer is Kokomo Andress (Kokomo Kid), who drives a flivver. Prof. Tillman and his band furnish the music. Luke Kilcoin, concession agent, has been called for military service. Johnny Ryan is producing clown. Mart Smith is still with it, also Archie Dunlap and the Missus. - Sid Kridello. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 28.
1919:
The M. L. Clark & Sons Show has been playing to phenomenal business in Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama. It is the intention of the management to keep the show in operation all winter. The show is headed for Florida. Floyd Trover contines as agent. Billboard, November 15, 1919, p. 58.
• In 1922 Floyd and Howard King leased the M. L. Clark title. Bandwagon, May-June, 1977, p. 5.
• Note: M. L. Clark died in 1926, but his son Lee operated the show for three more seasons.
1930: An article on the sale of the M. L. Clark show in 1930 is online in Bandwagon, March 1955 (scroll down).
• An article on the 1930 M. L. Clark & Son's Combined Shows is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1999, Vol. 43, No. 3, pp. 19-24.
• An article on the 1945 M. L. Clark & Sons Circus, owner E. E. Coleman, is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 5, pp. 4-12.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Clark Bros. - 1889, 1890-1896-98 (W. C. Clark, M. L. Clark)
1889:
Notice. A wagon show now organizing. W. C. Clark & Brother have purchased the E. O'Brien managerie, and want people, jugglers, leapers, balancers, and small team of dogs. Show moves out Sept. 12(?). W. C. Clark & Bro., Willis Point, Texas. New York Clipper, August 24, 1889, p. 401.
Clark Bros.' Circus and English Menagerie includes Harry O'Brien, Joseph Richards . . . Jerry Walker, Botter's school of dogs and ponies, Samuel (tight rope) Williams, Rice Bros., Osburn Sisters, Ada Rivers, Jean Earl and Maggie Ashby. Concert people: Osburn Sisters, Hattie Long, Edward Yost, Charles Means, Ward and Mack, and Allie Richmond. The feature of the show is the three open dens of beasts, worked by their trainer, Mr. Munroe. New York Clipper, December 21, 1889, p. 685.
1890:
On the Road, Circuses: Clark Bros.' - Riverside, Ark., Sept. 24, Colono, 25, R??ser, 26, Cotton Plant 27, Brinkley, 29. New York Clipper, September 27, 1890.
Roster of Clark Bros.' Circus and Menagerie. Clark Bros., proprietors and managers; Harry De Vere, equestrian manager . . . Jerry Walker . . . Fred Thatcher; Willis Clark . . . Allie(?) Clark . . . Fritz Mayer . . . Harry Bryant; Will Harris(Barris?); Fanny Clark; Mrs. Baltaro(?); Harry De Vere . . . New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 468.
Wanted, a partner for bars . . . Permanent address, Floyd Trover, Dallas, Tex., now en route with Clark Bros. Circus. New York Clipper, December 27, 1890, p. 668.
1891:
The Clark Brothers’ wagon show is in eastern Texas, and recently exhibited in Jasper. New York Dramatic News, January 13, 1891, p. 10.
Clark Bros. Circus and Menagerie are wintering at Huntsville, Tex. They travel by wagon, and will take the road early in March. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 795.
Roster of Clark Bros.' Circus and Menagerie: W. C. and M. L. Clark, sole proprietors and managers; Jos. Ward, business manager; Harry Hunt, treasurer; Floyd Trover, equestrian director; John Henderson, general advance agent . . . Thomas Everett, master of transportation; Geo. Brown, boss hostler, with fifteen(?) assistants; Prof. Schelhammer, leader of band and orchestra; Fanny(?) Clark, Master Willie Clark, Tom Bryan, Doris and Gruen(Green?) . . . Trover, Richard and McDonald, Chas. Casey, Sam Wright, Neola Luna(?) Clark, Rubie(?) Clark . . . Chas. Devlin, Chas. K. Barton(Burton?), Ed. Foley . . . Billy Barlow, Prof. Shelhammer . . . Allie Clark, Fritz(?) Meyer, Ed. Bennet, Will Bishop . . . Chas. Powell, Jno. Powell . . . and Ted Roberts. The show opens at Madisonville, Tex., Feb. 23, and will travel by wagon, using 120 head of stock, 90ft. main top with two 30ft. middle pieces, and 80ft. menagerie and a 60ft. side show. New York Clipper, February 21, 1891, p. 795.
Notes from Clark Bros.' Circus. After laying up in Huntsville, Tex., for thirty days, we will start Feb. 23 with two 100ft round tops, six cages, the elephant Empress, a looking glass band wagon, two fine tableau wagons, ___ horses and mules, and sixty-eight head of draft stock. People that have signed are: . . . Trover, Richards, McDonald . . . We tour Texas. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
Floyd Trover and Eddie McDonald have closed with Clark Bros. Circus Royal and joined Thomas C. Logan's Circus. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891, p. 150.
The De Soto Bros. have closed with Clark Bros.' Circus Royal and joined Pomeroy & Samuels' Circus. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
From Clark Bros. Circus. We are doing a fair business, and had three weddings last week. This is our roster: Mr. and Mrs. H.(?) L. Clark, Mr. and Mrs. W. C. Clark, Mr. and Mrs. Joe Richards, Mr. and Mrs. Otto ???, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Wright, Ed. Long and trained dogs, T. W. Bryan, clown, . . . Ed. Foley, Dick Martin, Jim Smith, John Emerson, Helena Spencer, Katie Lewis, Willie Clark, Allie Clark and wife, Louise Clark and Lum Clark, the fifteen year old son of W. C. Clark, who works the trained elephant, Empress, to the advantage. We have a new 100ft.(?) round top, with 40ft. middle piece and dressing room. M. L. Clark ??? the loss of his trick horse, Mack, who died last week of blind staggers, but he has another one in training. . . . C. V. Parsons, our genial hobby horse man, goes to visit relatives. T. W. Bry?n has a pony in training, and gives promise of good work. We have forty wagons and seventy head stock. We go to Louisiana, and hope to do a good business, and the gray headed man walks regularly every week. We have a good band of fifteen pieces. Prof. Scheib??mer, of St. Louis, is leader. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
Wanted at once, for Clark Bros.' Circus and Menagerie, trapeze and bar people, one juggler, one contortionist, and other good . . . people that would like all Fall and Winter job. Also good musicians. Going to organize two shows under the W. C. Clark management, to travel South. New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 444.
To performers, the wants of Clark Bros.' Circus and Menagerie. Will move two shows out of Clarksville, Arkansas, Oct. 5(?). Wanted, two jugglers, four good trapeze people, chair equilibrists, clowns, and one snall band of 8 mouth pieces. Sideshow privileges to let. Can use a troupe of trained dogs and riding monkeys. Engagement all Fall and Winter. Address O'Kean, Ark. Sept. 9, Black Rock Sept. 11 . . . Big Flat 18, Alco 19. Will reach Clarksville Oct. 1. Long engagement and good treatment. New York Clipper, September 12, 1891, p. 461.
. . . The weather through Texas has been delightful for tenting shows. Lemon Bros., E. O. Rodgers, Clark Bros. and the International Shows are playing to good business. New York Clipper, November 14, 1891, p. 609.
1892:
Notes from Clark Bros.' Circus. We are going to show all this Winter. Proprietor W. C. Clark lately jumped from the prairies of Texas, five hundred miles, to the Southern part of Louisiana. Had cold weather from Jan. 12 to 15. Today, 17, we are out on the road playing to crowded houses. We have fourteen people. Our canvas consists of a ??ft. top, 50ft. middle piece. Some of our prominent people are: George Jennier and family of four; Ed. C. Long and four trained dogs, Joe Richards, . . . Fanny Frader, Fannie Clark, with the trained elephant Empress, and a six cage menagerie. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 779.
W. C. and M. L. Clark are the sole proprietors and managers of the Clark Bros. Circus. New York Clipper, February 13, 1892, p. 808.
On the road, miscellanous: Clark Bros.' Circus, Alexandria, La., Feb. 10. New York Clipper, February 13, 1892, p. 813.
Notes from Clark Bros.' Circus. We have been doing well all winter in Louisiana, and are now in Arkansas. M. L. Clark and wife are spending a few days at Shreveport, La., with Bill(?) Reese(?) and wife. W. C. Clark is with the show. Addie Clark has been down with the grip. The roster: Clark Bros., George Jennier and family, Sam Wright, Hattie Richard, Joe Richard, W. T. Bryant and his child, Barney, Albert Powell, Louie Bartelmas(?), Harry Long, Maggie and Will Brown, Slott and wife . . . Pat McMannes, McCord, Whelen and Allie Clark. Lyle is still with Clark Bros. with his sideshow. Ed Long left the show March ?. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
Clark Bros. Circus is reported to have gone to the well at Hamburg, Ark. last week. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
1893: ?. ?. Davis, manager of Harris' Nickel Plate Circus, . . . passed through here en route to Carthage, Mo., to take possession of Clark Bros. Circus and a big elephant on a claim of $1,000. New York Clipper, February 25, 1893, p. 816.
1894:
Notes from W. C. Clark's Wagon Show. - We have been out all Winter through Southern Arkansas and Texas. The pale faced man walks regular, and we have all saved money this Winter instead of spending it. We have twelve wagons and good stock, our tent is sixty by ninety, and Mr. Clark is going to put on his own sideshow when we reach Ardmore, I. T., April 19. Jess Brown and wife, with assistance, are giving the concerts. Tucker Bros. are painting five banners for the annex. We are getting out of Texas fast as we can, and will travel North during the Spring and Summer. This is an acrobatic show, with trained donkeys, ponies, horses, riding monkeys and trained dogs. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 102.
Notes from W. C. Clark's Crescent Show. We have taken in all the Indian payments in the territory with varied success. The show is making South through Arkansas, Texas and Louisiana. Ed. Conklin, juggler, is our latest addition. ??? Craig and Chas. Everton also joined recently. ??? Clark is practising foot juggling . . . W. C. Clark has added two new dogs to his troupe. Dave Dodge has charge of the band now. . . . Schieldheimer(?) leads the concert. . . . Sam Wright and wife . . . closed. Jess Boon and wife are running the sideshow. New York Clipper, September 1, 1894, p. 405.
1895:
Notes from W. C. Clark's Crescent Shows. We are in Texas doing good business. The band wagon has arrived, and the band do not have to walk in the deep Texas sand. Willis Clash (Clark) fell from his trapeze, but sustained no serious injury. We showed five days in opposition to the Bailey Family Show, but managers finally agreed that W. C. Clark should show matinees and Mrs. Bailey at nights. Mr. Clark now has thirty-five head of stock with the show, ten wagons and three hacks. Ed Conklin cut his hand while juggling knives. Geo. Jennier has learned to do a juggling act, making three with the show. Jerry Walker, head balancing, is a success. Willie Clash has his barrel act down fine. W. R. McLaw joined January 1, to work in concert, and as singing clown. Allie Clark has quit the advance to play in band, and J. Freeman takes his place. Prof. Schelhammer received a lot of new music. The band at present consists of Prof. Schelhammer, David Dodge, Owen Taylor, Allie Clark, Fritz Myers, Walter Wilson and T. Cooney. New York Clipper, January 12, 1895, p. 715.
Notes from W. C. Clark's Crescent Shows. After tour of Texas we are about to enter Indian Territory, then through Arkansaas into Missouri. . . . Our roster: The Clark Family, . . . Jennier Family, six in number; Jerry Walker, . . . Edward Conklin, . . . Owen Taylor, Prof. Stiehlhammer(?), Fritz Myers . . . New York Clipper, March 16, 1895, p. 21.
Notes from W. C. Clark's United Shows. L. L. Leon has charge of the annex, and is a good elocutionist, but does not always clear up the show lot. Since we crossed the line into Missouri we have turned people away. The show will go North as far as a line of Iowa, and then turn South in time to make the cotton belt by October 1. The Jennier Family of four have signed again for this season. Carl Neel is leader of band, John Schelhamer leads the orchestra. New York Clipper, June 29, 1895, p. 261.
1896:
Ellet(?) and Bryan, triple bar performers, are with W. C. Clark's Great United Shows. New York Clipper, January 11, 1896, p. 716.
Roster of W. C. Clark's Shows. W. C. Clark, proprietor and manager; Lum Clark, treasurer . . . W. P.(?) Bryan, bounding jockey act . . . Willie Clark, foot juggling . . . Gilbert Bros., posturing and brother act; Carrie ???, single trapeze and flying rings; Mrs. Bryan, rolling globe . . . Concert people: Emerson and Russell, song and dance; the Great Ravolie(?), baton juggler; Myrtle Eddier, banjo and song and dance, and the Stowe Bros., clog dancers. We carry a band of twelve pieces, under the direction of Prof. Shelinammer, and a one hundred foot top, with fifty foot middle pieces. Lew Clark has the sideshow, and Mrs. Clark the cook tent. Mr. Clark's dogs and ponies catches them everywhere, as does our street parade, . . . two bands, seven cages and twelve people, mounted, a calliope and clown cart. We are playing to good business, and are now in the southern part of Lousiana. Prof. Shelly, balloonist, joined Feb. 18. New York Clipper, February 29, 1896, p. 825.
Notes from W. C. Clark's Show. We are touring Texas. The following joined at Marysville, Louisiana: Bobby White, hand balancer, and Eddie Martella, flying traps. W. T. Bryan fell from his horse and will be unable to work for some time. Mr. Clark purchased a new dressing room and new sideshow tops last week. Willie Clark has joined hands with Bobby White to do a posturing act. Murray Gilbert left last week for his home in Paducah, Kentucky, to open a jewelry store. New York Clipper, April 4, 1896, p. 73.
Notes from the W. C. Clark's Circus. Business for the past four weeks has been the largest in the history of this show, standing room being the general rule, and not the exception, through Kentucky, Tennessee and Mississippi. Oct. 31, at Ripley, Miss., was the banner house of the season, people being turned away before the band played the overture. Roster: W. C. Clark, proprietor; G.(C.?) R. Clark, treasurer; Mrs. W. C. Clark, Lou Clarke, R??y Clark and Little Pearl . . . Willie Clark, foot juggler; . . . Holt, revolving ladder la perch; Captain Adair, high diver; Theo. P.(F.?) Barretta, mule hurdle rider and clown; Adair and White, carrying perch . . . Ma?ie Stewart, traps and rings, and Ruby Clark's talking horse, trained dogs, goats and ponies. The band is composed of . . . Bob Miller, H. W. Adrian, H. O. Taylor, Arthur Forbes, H. H. Morgan, Geo. Oscar and Sam Clark. Allie Clark, advance agent, with five bill posters. New York Clipper, November 14, 1896, p. 587.
1897:
Notes from W. C. Clark's Shows winter quarters at Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Mrs. C. C. and A. T. Clark have gone to Atoka, I.T., to look after the interests of Mrs. Clark in the hotel which she recently purchased in that city. A. T. Clark will again have the advance the coming season. L. R. Clark is visiting in Cairo, Illinois. Chas. Lyles and wife are wintering in tuscaloosa. Mr. Lyles takes the sideshow next season, his fourth season. Theo. Barretta is breaking new ring stock. Capt. Adair, in his high dives, is booked for his second season. Bobby White, third season, is getting down a new act. Our band will be under the leadership of J. S. Kritchfield, second season. H. O. Taylor, fifth season, will have charge of the treasury. We will have a new dressing top and horse tents. Our big top, 90ft. round top with 30ft. middle piece, was used only three months last season. New York Clipper, February 13, 1897, p. 799.
Notes from W. C. Clark's Shows. We opened March 8 in Tuscaloosa for three days. Roster: W. C. Clark, proprietor; L. R. Clark, treasurer; H. O. Taylor, secretary; Allie Clark, advance; Theo. Barreta, equestrian director; Bobby White, Arthur Forbes, Capt. Adair, Si Holt, Willie Clark, Lonnie Clark, Howard Sisters, Clara Wysong and Annie Lyles. Band: J. S. Kritchfield, leader; R. J. Miller, Murry Gilbert, H. O. Taylor, C. Pinnick, Geo. Oscar, Fred Van, Gundy, Johnnie Jacobs, Lum Clark and Guy Godfrey. Chas. Lyles, fifth season, has our annex. Dubart Bush, candy stands; Jim Webb, boss canvas; Z. Posey, boss hostler; Wm. Cook, assistant; Joe Berthaume, seats; Joe Franklin, boss chandelier man; Henry Alston, reserve seats. Willie Clark has added a new five globe cross to his foot juggling act. Holt and White's breakaway roatate ladder perch is a feature. Capt. Adair, in his fearless leaps, gave an exhibition at Lake Loraine, near Tuscaloosa. The leap was ninety feet from a tower erected for the occasion. Forbes and White do a brother acts, Annie Lyles, snake enchantress, is with us, her fifth season. Bobby White does a novelty singing act. New York Clipper, March 27, 1897, p. 60.
1898:
Notes from W. C. Clark's Circus. We have just run in at Corinth, Mississippi, after a tour of six different States, a season of fifty-two weeks. The advance will start Monday for Missouri and the show will follow March 22. Jim Webb is canvas boss. All new tents were received at this place. New York Clipper, March 19, 1898, p. 44.
• Also see M. L. Clark Wagon Show, Homer C. Walton, Bandwagon, Vol. 9, No. 2 (Mar-Apr), 1965, pp. 4-11.
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Clark Bros. - 1920 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1920
Clark Bros.' Shows: Clark Bros.' Am. Co., proprietors; C. R. Harding, manager; J. J. Holmes, assistant manager and manager side show; F. E. Bailord(?), treasurer; Ernestiene Holmes, secretary; Tom Walters, general agent; Roy Henderson, local contractor; C. C. Harding, press agent back with show; Chick Varnell, equestrian director; Frank W. Green, supt. privileges; Mack Waldon, musical director; Whitie West, supt. canvas; John Engesser, boss hostler; wagon show. Opens April 24. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
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Clark & Shropshire - 1922 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1922
Clark & Shropshire Combined Shows, in quarters at Montgomery, Alabama, are planning an early opening. Mr. Clark has purchased a number of new dogs, ponies and monkeys. The training of the new animals is under the direction of L. J. Sample. G. E. Murphy, who spent the past season with the Howe Show, has charge of the painting, and C. G. Griggs is in charge of all canvas. The cookhouse at quarters is handled by Frank Jennings. Billboard, February 25, 1922, p. 78.
The Clark & Shropshire Show, owned and managed by L. G. (Rome) Shropshire, consists of twelve baggage wagons, three cages, four sleeping wagons, six touring cars and a Delco light plant on a truck. Business through Alabama has been good. Mr. Shropshire expects to tour Kentucky, Tennessee, Virginia and the Carolinas. Professor Karl has charge of the sideshow, featuring Babe LaBara. The band of eight pieces is under the direction of Jack Wells. - Robert Mack (for the Show). Billboard, May 6, 1922, p. 67.
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Clark & Walters - 1964-68 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1964-1972
• Brief information in this show, is online in "High Grass and Miller Magic," in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1969 (scroll down or use find).
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Clay Sisters' Wild West - 1916-18 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1916
1916: Clay Sisters' Wild West & Frontier Days Exhibition. L. Clay, manager, treasurer & secretary; Adam Schrimpf Jr., arena director; Prof. Ricado, musical director; Jas. Brown, supt. canvas; George Adams, boss hostler; J. Scott, steward; A. Power, supt. lights; G. Gooddale, supt. props; E. Clark, supt. ring stock; Joe Howard, announcer. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
1917: Clay Sisters’ Wild West - L. Clay, mgr., treas. and secy.; Adam Schrimpf, Jr., arena dir.; Prof. Recardo, musical dir.; John Brown, supt. canvas; George Adams, boss hostler; A. Powers, supt. lights; G. Gooddale, supt. props.; E. Clark, supt. ring stock; J. Scott, steward; Joe Howard, announcer. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
1918: Winter quarters. Clay Sisters' Wild West; South Cairo, N.Y. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
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Clayton's Circus - 1937-38
In 1937 owner Clayton Hawkes changed the title of his Martin Bros. Circus to Clayton's Combined Circus & Menagerie and toured this show for a short season in 1937. The winter quarters were at Castle Creek, New York. In 1938 the show did not make a regular tour, playing only a few dates. Bandwagon, November-December, 1992, p. 58.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1937.
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Clements' Shows - 1886, 1889, 1890-91, R. F. Clements Circus; Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1889-1894
• 1886: also see Scribner & Clements.
1886:
Wanted, for Clements & Co.'s Big Ten-cent Pavilion Show, circus performers in all branches, except riders. Male and female concert people. Also musicians and boss canvasman. Bob Clements, American House, Pittsburg, Pa. New York Clipper, July 17, 1886, p. 287.
• 1888: also see Clements & Russell.
1889:
Robert F. Clements' Circus and Trained Animal Aggregation opens the season April 25(?) at Pittsburg, Pa. Roster: R. F. Clements, sole proprietor and manager; J. W. Johnson, advance representative; O. Hartman, J. Hutchinson, F. Thorne, E. Brady, E. Leopold, Harry Lee . . . Frank Appell, Lynch Bros., Millie Zoyorow, H. Zoyorow, Albert Willette, Kitty Bursell, Ed. Leopold, Harry Rice, John Devere and James Cambell. The show will use a 100ft. round top tent with two 40ft. middle pieces. Mons. Hartman will make a balloon ascension daily. New York Clipper, April 13, 1889, p. 81.
From the Clements Show. It rained so hard at McKeesport, Pa., that the show could not exhibit under the canvas. We showed in the Opera House. Charles Mitchell and Wilson Adams, clowns and gymnasts, recently joined R. F. Clements' Show. New York Clipper, June 15, 1889, p. 225.
1890:
R. F. Clements' Circus will open its coming season at Pittsburgh, Pa., considerably enlarged. Manager Clements, although with Rice & Barton's Co. at present, is doing some work for his own show, and will have one of the most complete 25 cent circuses on the road next season. J. R. Emery is breaking two ponies for the ring. The show will travel in its own cars. New York Clipper, February 8, 1890, p. 791.
Wanted for the sixth season of R. F. Clements' New Colossal Shows, people in all branches of the circus business. Also a good band and musicians. Side show privilege for sale. R. F. Clements, American House, Pittsburg, Pa. New York Clipper, March 29, 1890, p. 45.
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. A number of circus performers arrived here to join Clement's Circus, which opens the season 24th(?) the East End. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 102.
On the Road, Circuses: R. F. Clement's. New York Clipper, May 17, 1890, p. 146.
On the Road, Circuses: R. F. Clements'. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 162.
Good business is reported from the R. F. Clements Show. A new band and baggage wagon and four horses have recently been added to the show. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 167.
Following is the roster of R. F. Clements' New Railroad Shows: R. F. Clements, general manager and sole proprietor; John A. Long, assistant manager; Wm. Williamson, superintendent; Frank Cooper, advance manager; Wm. Werner(?) treasurer . . . Doc. Freebolt(?), layer out . . . Frank Long, press agent; performers: Zamora (Mexican wonder) . . . the Da Coma Children; Frank and Ada Harmon; Avalo Bros.; Lilly Siebert . . . and Long's troupe of goats, dogs and monkeys. Concert: . . . Wm. Warner, Mlle. Solo, Frank Harmon and Mme. Paula. . . . Size of canvas 100ft. round top . . . The show will tour Pennsylvania and New York all the season. New York Clipper, May 24, 1890, p. 167.
On the Road, Circuses: R. F. Clements'. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 210.
Notes from Clements' Circus. This show has been doing a good business since the opening of the season at Pittsburg, Pa. Salaries are paid regularly every Tuesday night, and everybody is well and happy, with the exception of B. A. Bergman, who left for his home June 23, on account of sickness. At Brookville, 22, R. F. Clements (proprietor and manager) was the recipient of a fine gold watch chain and an initial ring, from the members of his company. the greatest day of the season was the twenty-fourth of June, it being the twenty-eighth birthday of J. J. Zamora, the Mexican wonder. Mead M. Werntz, being the Mexican's partner, furnished the refreshments for the occasion. Mr. Zamora was the recipient of some very valuable presents, viz., a fine gold watch from the members of the company, a handsome gold watch from B. A. Bergman and Oscar Puckett, a fine alligator leather satchel, half dozen fine gents hose, a silk scarf, and a silk traveling cap by Mr. Clements, a box of pocket handkershiefs and a comb by Mrs. Clements. John Long, of Pittsburg, made the presentation, and Mead Werntz answered on behalf of the Mexican. New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 261.
Wanted for R. F. Clement's New Colossal Shows. A few good musicians to strengthen band. Address G. W. McDonald, leader, Phillipsburg, Pa. New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 270.
Card of thanks. I beg ??? to thank the members of Clement's Circus for the beautiful and handsome presents . . . presented to me on the 24th(?) day of June, it being my twenty-eighth birthday . . . J. J. Zamora, Mexican gymnast . . . New York Clipper, July 5, 1890, p. 272.
Notes from R. F. Clemment's Shows. Jas. Irwin and wife, the Milo(?) Bros. . . . and the Belmont(?) Bros. joined recently. Jas. Moran(?) is making a decided hit with his novel club swinging act. . . . Business through New York state has run the scale of good, bad and indifferent. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 339.
Wanted for Southern tour, R. F. Clements' New Show. Musicians, tuba and baritone, good song and ance team for concert. . . . R. F. Clements, Scranton, Pa. Can use good, close contracting agent, address Frank C. Cooper, Scranton, Pa. New York Clipper, August 9, 1890, p. 349.
The following is the complete roster of R. F. Clement's New Show: R. F. Clements, manager; Frank C. Cooper, general manager; Frank Conway(?), treasurer; Frank Scribner, layer out and manager of privileges . . . Wm. Williams, advertising agent . . . Pat O'Neil, steward; G. W. McConald, leader of band and orchestra. Band - Claty Alexander (Clate?), Oscar Peckett(Puckett?), Chas. Dewitt(?), Ralph Bailey, E. Applegarth, W. W. Peckett(Puckett?) and Geo. Smith. Performers - Jas. Irwin, Dora Irwin, Harry Courtney . . . J. J. Wolf . . . Harry Burns(?), Geo. Belmont, Harry Belmont, John Kelly . . . Concert - Mlle. Alda . . . Wm. Belmont, Burns(?) and Warner and Frank Gray. . . . John Carney is in charge of canvas; Chas. Andrews, master of properties . . . Business has been great since we struck Pennsylvania. At Scranton we packed to the doors for three days. E. O. Rogers was a welcome visitor for a couple days last week. He reports his show in a healthy condition. E.(?) F. Clements leaves for Baltimore 1?, to arrange for Southern transportation. The show will be greatly increased in size at Baltimore, for the South. A twenty-four week's season will be run, our route extending to Key West, Fla. Nothwithstanding this season has been a hard oneon nearly all tented exhibitions, this show had sone a uniformly good business, except the three weeks we were in New York State. New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 373.
R. F. Clements wants, for long season, two or three strong acts for big show . . . New York Clipper, August 23, 1890, p. 382.
Ed. Harmon(?) and Chas. Johnson joined with the R. F. Clements Show at York, Pa. New York Clipper, August 30, 1890, p. 387.
Harry Courtney, of Courtney and A?lda, trapezists, writes from Pittsburg, Pa., that the R. F. Clements Show, with which the team had been traveling, disbanded at that place Oct. ??, with salaries and board bills in arrears. New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 503.
On the Road, Circuses and Miscellaneous: R. F. Clement's, Pittsburg, Pa., Nov. 10, indefinite. New York Clipper, November 15, 1890, 560.
1891:
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Robt. Clements will start his circus from this city early in April. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 62.
Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. Bob Clemens [sic] is getting his railroad show in shape. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 79.
Wanted for the Clements Shows, people in all branches of the circus business. Also concert people and a first class band. Also musicians for second band. Will hire or buy good trick pony. Sideshow privilege for sale. Address R. F. Clements, business manager, East End, Pittsburg, Pa. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 108.
On the road, circuses: Clements', Pittsburg, Pa., April 30-May 3(?). New York Clipper, May 2, 1891, p. 139.
Notes from the Clements Shows. The show opened its season at East Liberty, Pa., April 25. At Bloomfield a cyclone struck us about 9 p.m. The canvas was packed, but no one was injured. The canvas, however, did not escape so fortunately, it being completely blown to shreds. Manager Clements was the coolest man on the lot. There was no show the next afternoon, but the doors opened at 7 p.m. as usual, with a new 100 ft. round top, with two 50 ft. middle pieces. Business has been good, so far, and everybody is happy. New York Clipper, May 9, 1891.
Roster of Clemens’ [sic] European Shows. - R. F. Clemens, proprietor and manager; Lee Howard, assistant manager and treasurer; Wm. Morelo, equestrian director; J. W. Wallacker, general agent; Richard Timmons, boss bill poster, with six assistants; Lee Howard, Eugene Verona, R. V. Stinson, Max Morelo, Wm. Morelo, Jas. Devine, Signor Daudet, Walter Romalo, Jesse Fusner, Wm. Adams, F. De Vina, G. Marbs, Harry Hartsing, Ida Morelo, Laura Kelly, Adele Purvis, Alice Howard, Eva Howars; Ira S. Loos, leader of silver corent band and orchestra; Fred E. Mills, G. M. Labbe, C. Freyermuth, Artie Wigham, C. Waters, S. Dangerfield; . . . Geo. Simons, boss properties with three assistants. The show travels by wagon, using a 100 ft. round top, with two 40 ft. middle pieces, a 60 ft. sideshow top and two horse tents and forty-five head of horses. New York Clipper, May 16, 1891.
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Clements & Russell - 1888 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888
Wanted, for Clements & Russell's New United Railroad Shows (formerly Scribner & Clements), people in all branches of the circus business except riders, concert people who double in brass, musicians, troupe of dogs. Clements & Russell, American House, Pittsburg, Pa. New York Clipper, March 10, 1888, p. 841.
John N. Russell writes that he has purchased Sam Scribner's interest in Scribner & Clements' Circus and the show's name will hereafter be Clement & Russell's United Railroad Shows. The season will open in Pittsburg, Pa., April 23. New York Clipper, March 31, 1888, p. 40.
Clements & Russell Railroad Show opened its season April 23 at Pittsburg, Pa. Roster: Nelson Sinclair Mlle. Carlotta Laverne . . . Wm. Francis, Howard and Adams, Harry Burns, Lee Howard, Millie Bertine, Frank Wright, Ed Leopold, the Emery Bros., Sheridan and Wright, John N. Russell, John Horner, Vergie Varney, Alice Howard, Thomas Shook, Lee Graves and Prof. George Martine, with a band of ten pieces. J. W. Walker and William Jamison are traveling in advance. New York Clipper, May 5, 1888, p. 123.
Clement & Russell's New Monster Show report good business in South Pittsburg, Pa. Edward Leopold, equilibrist, joined the show May 10. He has purchased the candy stand privilege. New York Clipper, May 26, 1888, p. 169.
Wheeling, W. Va., May 29. A fierce thunderstorm prevailed here. The tent of Clements & Russell's circus on Wheeling Island was almost demolished. Janesville Daily Gazette (Janesville, WI), May 29, 1888, n.p.n.
Will E. Conkling has joined Clements & Russell's Circus. New York Clipper, June 16, 1888, p. 218.
John N. Russell has sold his interest in the Clements & Russell Circus to Robert Clements. The show is prospering and is reported to have made good money for its backers so far this season. New York Clipper, July 14, 1888, p. 278.
Robt. F. Clements' Circus was equipped with a new dress in the shape of a 100ft. round top canvas, with a 50ft. middle piece, at Martinsburg, W.Va., Aug. 7, but its stay was very short. On the afternoon of 8, at the close of the performance, the tent was struck by a cyclone. After tearing the canvas into threads it tore it from its stakes, and it landed in a lumber yard 500 yards distant. Mr. Clements had his old canvas on hand, which was put up in time for the night show. Edwin Leopold has the privileges with the show. It is his first venture in this line. New York Clipper, August 18, 1888, p. 358.
Nelson Sinclair and Nellie Carlisle close with Clements' Circus Sept. 8. New York Clipper, September 8, 1888, p. 411.
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Cleveland Consolidated - 1891-92, 1894
1891:
Wanted, for the Cleveland Consolidated Shows. Circus, museum, hippodrome and wild west performers in all branches. Band of eight pieces, hustling agent, troupe of dogs, performing ponies, circus cowboys with outfits. Must be able to do more than two turns. Permanent address M. C. Ewing, manager, Lyceum Theatre Building, Cleveland, Ohio. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 276.
Notes from Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows. Among the many visitors to the show during the past week were Judge Ewing, of the Cleveland Consolidated Shows. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
The New Cleveland Consolidated Shows, Circus, Museum, Hippodrome and Wild West opened at Cleveland, O., July(?) at popular prices. The roster: . . . J. Ewing, proprietor; M. C. Ewing, manger; W. Ewing, treasurer; W. Quinnett, equestrian director . . . Harry Bowers and wife . . . W. H. Quinnett, Geo. L. Behrens(?) . . . Colorado Jack, leader of cowboys and Indians . . . Texas Tom . . . Chas. Williams, Mrs. Bowers . . . New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
On the road, circuses: Cleveland Consolidated, Cleveland, O.,July ?7-Aug 8. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 347.
The Cleveland Consolidated Circus and Wild West will remain at Cleveland, O., until Aug. 15(?), when it takes the road. New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 365.
Cleveland Consolidated Shows. Wanted, a few more people. Indians, all kinds of performers. Bar team, double trapeze, lady aerial artists, band leader, band musicians who double brass and string, side show people, including Punch and Judy, boss canvasman, and four and six horse drivers, and two more light chariots. Addres per route, Cleveland, Ohio, August 8 and 9. M. Ewing, manager. New York Clipper, August 8, 1891, p. 378.
Harry and Nellie Bower(?) are with the Cleveland Consolidated Show. They are doing a new act. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
The Cleveland Consolidated Shows and Wild West are now on their fourth week. New features are added every week, and they are buying new stock for the ring and new wagons, preparatory for the road. It will be one of the best equipped popular price shows in the country. A first class band of twelve pieces, under the leadership of Prof. Dugan, will be carried. . . . New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
The Bowers (Harry and Nellie) leave the Cleveland Consolidated Show Aug. 1?, and go West to fulfill their engagements. Mrs. Bower presented her husband with a fine gold watch and chain Aug. 10. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
1892: Wanted, for the third annual tour of the Cleveland Consolidated Shows, Circus, Museum, Roman Hippodrome, Great Wild West and Trained Animal Exposition. Show people in all departments. Musicians, acrobats, aerial artists, gymnasts, jugglers, riders, cowboys, Indians, clowns, sensational actors, balloon ascension and sideshow people. Also trained horses, dogs, ponies, goats and animals of all sorts. Also want a few more cars, stock and cages, and another pair light Roman chariots. Show opens in Cleveland, O., on June ??, 1892. Harrison J. Ewing, sole owner, 4 Lyceum Theatre Building, Cleveland, O. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 239.
1894:
1894: For sale, the Cleveland Consolidated Shows. The largest, best and most complete wagon show on earth. . . . Will sell all or an interest in same. If not sold show open [unreadable text] Harrison J. Ewing, proprietor . . . New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 31.
For sale, the Cleveland Consolidated Shows. The largest, best and most complete wagon show on earth. Tents, of all kinds an sizes; seats, lights, chariots, wagons, cooking and dining outfits, uniforms, costumes . . . horses, draft, ring stock, Wild West, steeple, hurdle, ponies, donkeys, harness saddles, trappings, musical instruments, etcetera ad infinitum. Will sell all or an interest in same. If not sold show opens in Cleveland, Ohio, on May ?? 1894. Want people in all branches. Harrison J. Ewing, sole owner and proprietor, ___ Superior Street, Cleveland, Ohio. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 62.
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Great Clifford Circus - 1911
While Mlle. Clifford, the celebrated sword swallower, was in Pawtucket, she purchased the Conway's Circus property, and had it shipped to her winter quarters in Canton, O. She intends to put a one-ring circus show on the road about June 1. It will be known as the Greater Clifford Shows. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
Roster of the Great Clifford Circus: Mlle., Karl A., Walter J., Jno. F., Clifford and Stephen A. Clifford, owners; Karl A. Clifford, manager; Mlle. Clifford, treasurer; Jno. Clifford, advance agent and press representative; Walter Clifford, equestrian director; Stephen Clifford, boss hostler; Jno. Bauer, privileges; Ralph Tiese and R. Landes, candy butchers; Carl Bauer and Walter Miller, front door; Steve Cross, boss of properties; Bill Tetlow, ring maker; George Tetlow, reserved seats; S. Brodie, boss canvasman; Edith Holmes, wardrobe lady; Joe Cross, chandelier man. The performers include the Original Zanton Bros., ring gymnasts; Mlle. Clifford and Company, sword swallowers; LaJones, wire artists; Zanzar Bros., acrobats and hand balancers; Two Wirtzs, contortionists; House and House, double trapeze; Hart and Hiff(?), revolving ladder; Snipe, Hook, Bushey, Bowery and Sikes, clowns. K. A. Clifford, manager of the Great Clifford Circus, has purchased another baggage wagon. The show is in winter quarters at Canton, O. Steve Cross, clown, late of the Gollmar Bros.' Circus, has signed for the coming season with the Great Clifford One Ring Circus. The Zanzar Bros., acrobats and equilibrists, will this season be with the Great Clifford Show. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
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Clifford & Gubbins - 1892 (may be Griffin?)
Clifford & Gubbins' Pioneer Circus will play Chicago and the suburbs this summer. This is Thos. Clifford's first venture as a manager. He will be recalled as the "Old Sport" of Barnum's and the Forepaugh Shows. The circus will carry an 80(?)ft. round top with a 40(?)ft. middle piece, and give a one ring old time performance. Ten and twenty cents will be charged for admission. New York Clipper, March 5, 1892, p. 859.
Wanted, for Clifford & Gubbins' Pioneer Circus, Chicago season, circus people in all branches, including riders, with stock, band of six pieces. All privileges to let. Clifford & Gubbins, Chicago. New York Clipper, March 5, 1892, p. 866.
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Clyde Bros. - 1946 (Howard Suesz)
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1943-1978
• A brief article on the 1946 show is online in Bandwagon, April 1946 (pdf file, page down).
Clyde Bros. - 1985-85
1985: Don Johnson's Clyde Bros. Circus played Shrine dates and other sponsors in 1985. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 13.
1986: Don Johnson's Clyde Bros. Shrine circus played a number of smaller cities in 1986. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 14.
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Coburn Bros.' - 1918-19 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1914-1925
1914: Coburn Bros.' Wagon Show. Walter E. Coburn, proprietor & manager; Frank H. McClure, asst. manager; C. L. Coburn, treasurer & secretary; Bob Stewart, general agent; Frank Walters, special agent; Ed. McDonald, equestrian director; Frank Walters, general supt.; Geo. Edwards, supt. privileges; Prof. Paul Mascher, musical director; A. L. Alison, supt. reserved seat tickets; Jas. Henderson, supt. canvas; Thos. O. Owens, boss hostler; Earl Cramer, supt. commissary dept.; Jas. Henderson, supt. lights; Frank Cramer, supt. stock; W. C. Birch, blacksmith; Hugh Hamburger, manager advertising wagon; Wlmer E. Cleepper, legal adjuster. Show opens at East Palestine, Ohio, April 20. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
1918: For sale, Coburn Bros.' Wagon Show. Band wagon, ticket wagon, wardrobe wagon, baggage wagon, stake and chain wagon, cook house wagon, carved living wagoon, pole wagon, gilly wagon, two miniature cages, several light wagons, baggage harness and pony harness. Two big tops, 70x110, seats, lights and poles. Address Frank McClure, East Palestine, Ohio. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 9, 1918, p. 66.
1919: Chicago, Sept. 27. W. E. Coburn, manager of the Coburn Wagon Shows, was in Chicago purchasing additional wagons for the show. His show is now in Pennsylvania. Billboard, October 4, 1919, p. 44.
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C. B. Cochran's Circus - 1913
London, Feb. 20. C. B. Cochran's circus at Olympia will be called Carl Hagenbeck's Ark and Big Circus. It will open Dec. 26. Hagenbeck's famous "zoo" will be shown as in Hamburg, without cages. Cochran claims to have acquired a site for a permanent circus building in London, to seat 6,000. Variety, February 21, 1913, p. 4.
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Coe's Circus - 1866
• 1866: online at
Clipper, June 9, Clipper, June 30 (scroll down)
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Coear's Mexican Circus - 1922
Joe M. Coear's Mexican Circus opened March 9 with thirty-five Mexican acts, a fourteen piece Mexican band and a troupe of trained dogs, according to W. M. Anderson. The show will tour Mexico, Arizona, Colorado and Old Mexico. Billboard, March 18, 1922, p. 83.
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Coffree, Burtine & Purvis - 1895
Notes from the Coffree, Burtine & Purvis Circus. Mr. Coffree is now up the State, looking over the ground and routing the show. Mr. Bartine is engaging people and contracting for printing, etc., while Mr. Purvis is overhauling and looking after the repairs to the show. Prof. Franke and a band of ten men have signed. New York Clipper, May 4, 1895, p. 131.
Roster of Coffree, Burtin & Purvis' Circus: Coffree, Burtine and Purvis, equal owners; Carl Coffree, in charge of advance with two assistants; Jim Bennett, in charge of stock with ten assistants; John Smith, in charge of canvas with six assistants; Prof. Franks, bandmaster with ten musicians; Harry Spikel, manager of privileges, side show, candy stands, etc.; John Purvis, director of amusements; Harry De Lome, performing horses; George Hill, trapeze; William Dietz, perch and bars; Emil Grangh, animal impersonator; Lottie Coffree, high wire; Little Willie, contortionist; John Duvalle, equilibrist; William Buswood, juggler and clown; Lula Barnard, rolling glober; Prevost and Hollores, Mexican ladder; Carrie Day, balancer; Le Roy, rings; De Havens, trapeze; Frankey Purvis, tight rope; Burtine's dogs; Purvis, clown and donkeys. The show opens May 22 at Perkasie, Pennsylvania, and goes West. New York Clipper, May 11, 1895, p. 147.
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Coffrin Bros. - 1897
Wanted, Coffrin Bros.' Winter Circus, circus acts of all kinds, except riders. Talking and singing clown, musicians, trap drummer, property man. Show opens in State Armory, Burlington, Vermont, January 18. People doing two turns, tumble and leap. We pay board. Coffrin Bros., Rutland, Vermont, until January 14. New York Clipper, January 9, 1897, p. 726.
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Cole's - 1877
Cole's Circus is on its way to Memphis, Tenn., and will Winter there. New York Clipper, January 27, 1877, p. 351.
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Cole's Southern Circus - 1881-82
1881:
The Great Southern and Crescent City Circus starts from St. Louis, Mo., about Oct. 20 by boat. The steamer Vigor will be in the advance, and the steamer Bart E. Limehan will carry the show. Matt Leland and W. O. Monroe are the proprietors and managers. New York Clipper, September 24, 1881, p. 435.
People engaged for the Great Southern and Crescent City Circus are requested to report at St. Louis, Oct. 30. A calliope player is wanted by managers Leland and Monroe. New York Clipper, October 22, 1881, pp. 502, 510.
Cole's New Great Southern Circus, Menagerie, Museum and Triple Musical Congress, Matt Leland, Wm. Monroe and George S. Cole, proprietors, was recently organized in St. Louis, Mo. It is now traveling by steamers J. H. Williams and Clara and barge Matt Leland, with eight billposters in advance. There are five cages of animals and an open den of performing animals; also a steam calliope. The brass band is led by Prof. Comer and the colored drum and fife corps by James Irving. The company includes Madame MacDonald, Felix MacDonald, Dave Castello, Mons. Joseph, G. J. Landers, the Kincade Family, Miss Gertie Cox, Harry Parsons and his trained buffalor, and John Royce and Sam McFlinn, clowns. Free shows: wire ascension, bicycle race and balloon ascensions, each day. Route: the White, Arkansas and Mississippi Rivers. The show made its first stand Nov. 2 in Piedmont, Mo. New York Clipper, November 19, 1881, p. 571.
Cole's Southern Circus exhibited at Vidalia, La., Dec. 15, Bulletts Bayou 16, Fairview 17; thence to all the towns on the Mississippi River as far as New Orleans, then Bayou Lafourche, the Red River and tributaries. The show is traveling by boats. At Natchez the steamer J. H. Willimas was replaced by the Parole. A new canvas has been added to the outfit, and the show generally replenished from the sale of Cooper & Jackson's property, which took place in Natchez. New York Clipper, December 31, 1881, p. 674.
• An article on the 1881 Cole's Southern Circus, owners George S. Cole, Matt Leland and William O. Monroe, is in Bandwagon, May-June, 2005, Vol. 49, No. 3, p. 26.
1882:
Cole's (not W. W.) Circus was billed to exhibit Jan. 6 at Carrolton, a suburb of New Orleans, La. New York Clipper, January 14, 1882, p. 707.
George S. Cole's Southern Circus and Menagerie billed all towns on the Mississippi River and the Bayou Teche, commencing Jan. 24. A correspondent says: "On the announced dates W. H. Stowe's Shows, also traveling by boats, put up their tents in the same towns, when the liveliest excitement was caused, both parties having outsiders, street ticket peddlers, steamboat excursions, street parades, and every artifice was resorted to to attract the crowd. This opposition continues until Feb. 1, at several places, the price of tickets being reduced to twenty-five cents. At Franklin a compromise was effected, both shows combining, retaining all their performers, joining street parades, and putting up the largest display of canvas ever seen in this country, and both show transporting their respective shows on their own boats. The result justified the wisdom of the scheme, and both will continue this combination for the rest of the season. Route: Red River, Onachita, Bayou Bartholomew, De Glaize and Mississippi River. W. H. Stowe assumes the equestrian management, George S. Cole and W. O. Monroe are the directors, and Matt Leland is in advance." New York Clipper, February 18, 1882, p. 791.
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Cole's - 1892 (Culbertson Bros.)
Wanted, for the Cole's Wagon Show. People in all branches of the circus business; also side show people, man to make balloon ascensions, magician and knock about ___ for concert; people doubling in brass. All privileges to let. Address ___, Jamestown, N.Y. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 126.
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Famous Cole - 1961-62 show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1954-1965, 1988-
• Article on the 1961 Famous Cole Circus is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1962 (scroll down or use find).
• Article on the 1962 Famous Cole Circus is online in Bandwagon, May-Jun 1963 (scroll down or use find).
Famous Cole - 1987-88
1987: Ron Bacon's Famous Cole Circus from Belpre, Ohio, opened its 1987 Fall season at Batesville, Indiana on October 18. The tour continued through November in Ohio and West Virginia. Bandwagon, January-February, 1988, p. 17.
1988: Ron Bacon's Famous Cole played Spring and Fall dates along the Ohio River Valley. Bandwagon, January-February, 1989, p. 15.
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Cole Bros.
• The title Cole Bros. has been used by many show managers. First in the late "80's" it was founded by William Washington Cole, known as the "W. W. Cole Circus." Later Martin Downs, a Canadian showman, took over the title and named it "Cole Bros. Circus." When the winter quarters at Harbor Creek, Pennsylvania, the late J. Augustus Jones became the owner and it became a twenty-car railroad circus. This show was sold at auction at Shreveport, Louisiana, at the close of it season. Later Jess Atkins and Zack Terrell became owners of the title. Now in winter quarters in Peru, Indiana, idle and with indefinite plans for the future, owned by a Chicago syndicate. Not forgetting James M. Cole, out of Penn Yann, New York, who toured a small motorized show in recent years. Greater Show World, August, 1951, p. 10.
Cole Bros. - 1906, 1909 Martin Downs, proprietor; show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1906-09
1906: Notes from Cole Brothers' United Shows. - All arrangements have been made to open the season April 12, in Birmingham, Ala., and the members of the advance not already in service have been ordered to report in that city March 28. General Agent Ed. C. Knupp has been in harness several weeks, selecting and organizing his subordinates, digging up fresh territory and hurrying forward the orders in the hands of the printers. The prospecting agent has thus early covered many sections of the country, while Harry B. Potter, railroad contractor, and Walter T. Murphy, contracting agent, began work last month. Over fifty experienced men will make up the advance, under the efficient direction of Mr. Knupp, who has chosen the following aides: Harry E. Curtis, manager No. 1 car; Fred J. Bates(?), manager excursion car; C. A. Koster and G. C. Moyer, special agents; C. B. Bowers, route rider; E. N. Waters, checker up. There will be twenty-two first class men upon the initial car, the paper of which will be in care of Charles A. Martin. Robert Mathews will be in charge of the paper on the second car, which will carry twenty men. Only union bill posters and lithographers have been engaged. Eating upon the cars ahead of these shows Is now a thing of the past, and it will be hotel meals exclusively for the "boys." Messrs. Moyer and Koster, who are to captain the flying opposition squadron, have each been assigned some exceedingly good men, and while no billing battles will be courted. Cole Brothers pickets will not permit encroachment upon their rights or paper. There will be thirty-five different styles of wall and window work, all from original special designs. In fact, the advertising matter will create a surprise second only to that which Proprietor Martin J. Downs will offer as a free outside attraction back with the shows. The latter will surely excite the wonder of all managers and laymen of the show world, in that it is a sensational feature which almost any other large amusement enterprise would heavily bill and present only upon the inside of the canvas, instead of in the open air. Mlle. D'Zizzi, a young Parisian, who has been engaged for the act, has arrived in America. At the present time she is in Erie, Pa., explaining her act and in other ways aiding the artists in designing the paper to be used in advertising it. New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114.
1908: Route for 1908 Cole Bros. Circus, Martin Downs, owner, is in Bandwagon, December 15, 1945, Vol. 4, No. 6, pp. 10-11.
1909: Cole Brothers' Show. M. J. Downs, prop.; Jas. Downs, mgr.; E. C. Knupp, gen. agt.; H. B. Potter, R. R. contractor; E. E. Goodell, local contractor; Geo. Robinson and Earl Scott, special agts.; J. A. Aslberg, checker-up; E. N. Waters, excursion agt.; J. E. Ogden, mgr. side show; J. D. Carey and Will Mitchell, press agts.; Fred J. C. Robson, treas.; Joe Berns, equestrian dir.; Harry B. Craige, mgr. commissary dept.; Chas. Herman, supt. transportation; A. S. Engiert, supt. of canvas; Archie Dunlap, supt. of animals; Joe Green, supt. of elephants; John Harrison, supt. reserved seat tickets; Bert Carroll, supt. of props.; Alfred Tobin, supt. of privileges; John Kennedy, supt. of stock. Roster Advance Car No. 1: John D. Carey, mgr.; Chas Martin, Ollie Robinson, W. C. Emerson, E. A. Goslyn, Chas. Massie, John Toomy, Harry Snyder, Earl Scott, Will Witts, Aug. Miller, W. Mathews and Frank Foster, billposters; P. Backell, Patsy Brusa, George Singleton and Roy Snyder, lithographers and banner men. Roster Advance Car No. 2: Fred J.(I.?) Bates, car mgr.; F. J. Hart, J. W. Nedrow, C. S. Averill, C. E. Mikisell, L. W. Brown, H. Danaker, Ben Fink, Roy Leonard, W. H. Alberts, Edward Conroy, Ed. Flaherty, G. E. Jackson and M. Hart, billposters. Roster Advance Car No. 3: Geo. Robinson, car mgr.; Bert Wheeler, Victor Stout, Jas. Sullivan, C. A. Peterson, Wm. Brownmiller, James P. Miller and Wm. Burns, billposters. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
• An article on the 1909 Cole Bros. fire is online at Bandwagon, August 1952 (scroll down).
1910:
"Corry, Jan. 14 - . . . the Cole Brothers' circus, which has been wintering in this city, will be sold on Jan. 28, at the fairgrounds, according to an ad in the current issue of the New York Clipper. James Downs, principal owner of the show, is said to want to retire . . ." Titusville (PA) Herald, January 15, 1910.
• Cole Bros. World Toured Shows (Martin Downs, proprietor), sold to Fiss, Doerr & Carroll New York horse dealers in January 1910, and a few weeks later was a auctioned off in lots. (Martin Downs died in Toronto, Canada, October 1909. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
Cole Bros. - 1912
Miss Addia Kain, formerly of Gollmar Bros. Shows, will be the wardrobe mistress of the Cole Bros. Shows this season and now is engaged at winter quarters at Lancaster, Mo., superintending the making of wardrobe for the coming season. Billboard, April 6, 1912, p. 27.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1912-13, W. H. Coulter, owner.
• Another source states that Coulter leased the Cole Bros. title and had the show out in 1911-12. J. Augustus Jones had the title for 1913. Bandwagon, March-April, 1977, p. 10.
Cole Bros. - 1917-18 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1916-17 (E. H. Jones, J. Augustus Jones, proprietors)
1917: Cole Bros.’ Show - Cole Bros.’ World Toured Show, Inc., props.; J. Augustus Jones, mgr.; E. H. Jones, asst. mgr.; Howard Robinson, treas.; F. D. Abbott, secy.; J. B. Wright, auditor; L. C. Gillette, gen. agt. and railroad contractor; J. C. Tracy, local contractor; W. W. Twigg, special agt.; H. P. Kutz, contracting press agt.; G. H. Francis, press agt. back with show; Fred Smith, excursion agt.; J. E. Ogden, mgr. side-show; F. J. Rogers, equestrian dir.; Frank Jones, gen. supt.; Alex Jones, supt. privileges; C. Z. Bronson, musical dir.; T. F. Fanning, supt. reserved seat tickets; John L. Buck, supt. canvas; Ralph Crossett (Whittie), trainmaster; Jack Swords, boss hostler; Howard Damon, supt. commissary dept.; Edward H. Keen, supt. lights; Fred White, supt. ring stock; Jack Swords, supt. stock; J. Henry Rice, 24-hour agt.; Cheerful Gardner, supt. elephants; Fred Watson, boss carpenter; Louis Roth, supt. animals; George Snell and Fred Singleton, blacksmiths; Fred Bates, mgr. adv. car No. 1; Wm. M. Gilman, mgr. adv. car No. 2; F. W. Jones, checker up; twenty cars. Show opened at Riverside, Cal., March 7. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
• See the article on the 1917 show, online in Bandwagon, August 1943 (scroll down).
• 1917 partial route in Bandwagon, October, 1943, Vol. 2, No. 6, p. 5.
1918:
For sale, Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows, at public sale, February 26, State Fair Grounds, Shreveport, La. Everything sold separate. Reason for disposing of show, I have run my own show successfully for twenty-five years. I wish to take a rest. My other interests need attention. I offer a twenty-car show to be sold in parts. Steel stock cars, five sleeping cars, one 76ft. advance car, steel wheels and steel platforms; three female elephants, one male, 8ft., 2 in. elephant; five performing male lions, three are riding lions, horse goes with act; complete menagerie, all kinds of animals, seven camels, one sea horse, fine pit attraction; seventy-five dapple gray draft horses, eighteen head of ring stock, thirty Shetland ponies, harness, trappings, wardrobe, tent, lights, tools, one calliope on wagon for ponies, one calliope on auto truck. Address J. Augustus Jones, care Youree Hotel, Shreveport, La. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 16, 1918, p. 2.
Shreveport, La., Feb. 16. These are busy times at the winter quarters of the Cole Bros.' Show here. John Henry Rice is busy painting the repaired wagons and several new ones are being built. Cheerful Gardner is working his animals, which have been increased by the addition of a big elephant, named Tex, eight feet six inches high. Cheerful takes advantage of the nice weather and parades his elephants around the race track at the fair grounds. Frank Jones, Josh Billings, Doc Hawley, Jim Walters, Owen Lewis and Bill Scott report each day at the clubhouse at the quarters. Billboard, February 23, 1918, p. 28.
For sale, 20-car show, Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows, at public sale, February 26th, State Fair Grounds, Shreveport, La. Everything to be sold in parts. 7 steel cars, 3 steel stock cars (these cars, length 60 feet), sleeping cars, 1 baggage car 60 ft. long, steel platforms and steel trucks, six wheels, equipped with boiler, office, 74ft. workingmen's sleeper, will sleep 120 people; 1 stateroom car, 80ft. long; 120ft. rount top with two 40ft. middle pieces and one 50ft. middle piece, 10ft. side wall, used 12 weeks; all kinds of smaller tents; 1 top, 100ft. round top with three 40ft. middle pieces, no side wall; seats, lights, tools, blocks and falls, poles, uniforms, wardrobe, bedding, 5 cross cages, 5 big dens, 1 ticket wagon, 12 baggage wagons, pole wagon, cook house wagon and cook house outfit; 5 parade band and tableau wagons, 1 calliope mounted on auto truck, one air calliope on light carved wagon pulled by ponies; 5 performing male lions in one group; 17 section steel arena, 2 male lions and 2 females, not educated; 5 young bears, ready to train; 2 hyenas, 1 deer, 1 gnu, 2 sacred cattle, 6 camels, 1 large male elephant, 8 ft. 3 inches; 3 performing female elephants; 76 draft horses; 20 head ring stock, one 8-pony drill, 20 other Shetland ponies, 38 sets work harness. J. Augustus Jones, Youree Hotel, Shreveport, La. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 23, 1918, p. 75.
With the exception of the steel cars and some cages and baggage wagons the Cole Bros.' Circus outfit was disposed of at public auction at Shreveport, La., February 26. One hundred and sixty horses and ponies were sold. Charles Sparks, manager of the Sparks Circus, paid $8,500 for three performing elephants, and also bought one carload of draft horses. Andrew Downie, manager of the Walter L. Main Fashion Plate Shows, bought on carload of draft horses and some animals. Ernest Haag, manager of the Mighty Haag Circus, twelve head of ring stock, four cages, harness and some animals, including a two year old lion(?) for $275, a hyena for $150, and ocelot for $12 and a badger for $7.50; Zack Miller, of the 101 Ranch, one carload of horses; Frank A. Robbins, one group of performing lions and props for $2,475, and some draft horses for the Parker Shows; M. L. Clark, some harness and a bunch of animals, including an untrained lion for $100 and a double humped-back camel for $300; Charles Martin, two sleeping cars and some tents and animals, including a camel for $350; Mrs. Dave Lachman, one sleeping car, one lion and one black bear, the latter for $45; W. H. (Bill) Rice, some horses, harness and wagons for the Wortham Shows; J. D. Newman and Ben Austin, some horses, ponies, harness, cages and animals for the Gentry Bros.' Shows; Frisco Shows, a sea cow for $450; Hippodrome Shows, a baby camel for $265; Horne's Wild Animal Shows, a sacred cow for $55, and "Tex," the elephant that went with Frank Adams' two-car outfit, which J. Augustus Jones bought last fall, the pachyderm bringing $1,500. Cheerful Gardner worked the elephants previous to the sale, eliciting much applause. Other circus and carnival men present were Con T. Kennedy, C. A. Wortham, Mr. Reed of Reed's Carnival Company, Henry Gehm, George Byrne Jr., Mr. Lowe and George Rollins. J. Augustus Jones said he will organize two or three two-car circuses for the coming season. Billboard, March 9, 1918, p. 62.
Cole Bros. Circus (J. Augustus Jones, owner) was sold at auction February 26, 1918 at Shreveport, La., with exception of steel cars and some cages, and baggage wagons. Chas. Sparks paid $8,500 for three performing elephants. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
Cole Bros. - 1918-19, 1920, 1926 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1918-1924 (E. H. Jones, proprietor)
1918:
Want musicians for two-car circus. Boss canvasman and light man. Address The Cole Show Co., Shreveport, Louisiana. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 16, 1918, p. 66.
Route, Cole Show: Doe Run, Mo. 15; Flat River 16; Elvins 17. Billboard, May 18, 1918, p. 55.
Cole Bros.' Show, under the management of Howard Damon, is enjoying a prosperous season. Roster: Howard Damon, manager; Clara Wright, secretary & treasurer; John Keenan, supt. tickets; Jasper Fulton, supt. privileges; Jack LaVere, sideshow manager; Edw. and Inez Sthral, snake show; Arthur James, sideshow tickets; Osie Lucier, elephant trainer and animal man; Jack Moore, boss canvasman; Joe Creeper, boss props; Dave "Inky Dot," pony boy; "Scotie," boss seat man and train loader; "Red" Simpson, boss hostler; "Curley," supt. lights; John Alton, equestrian director. The program includes the Alton Family, acrobats, high wire, slack wire, swinging ladder and concert turns; John McNamara, rub on "come in" and clown; Dorothy McNamara, opening song and three concert turns; Fred Hatfield, pony drill; George and Mrs. Whittie, iron jaw, rings and bounding wire; Geo. Whittie Jr., concert song; Tex, the elephant; Thos. Moss, chair balancing and juggling; Delta Hatfield, contortion; Fred Leslie, principal clown; Gene Weldon and Dee Mist, clowns; Clazie and Patsy, comedy act; the Bowen Family band, in which Anna May Bowen, in euphonium solos, also William, Ralph and Lewis Bowen (7, 9 and 11 years), with bass drum, snare drum and cymbals; Ethel Delmar, Gene Stewart and Grace Marie, dancers in annex. Doc Hawley has charge of the car, with one assistant. Jim Winter is chef. Fred and Delta Hatfield are recent arrivals. Fred Williams is the pastry cook. - Fred Leslie. Billboard, July 27, 1918, p. 27.
The Cole Bros.' World Toured Shows will not be affected by the death of its owner, J. Augustus Jones. Howard Damon, who has been associated with Mr. Jones for the last five years in various capacities, has been given the management and complete charge of the show, which is now touring in Missouri and will continue through Kentucky and Tennessee as originally planned. The exective staff: Howard Damon, general manager; Mrs. John Wright, treasurer; Jasper Felton, ticket wagon; L. C. Gillett, general agent; J. Henry Rice, local contracting agent; Jack Moore, superintendent, and Jos. Billings in charge of advertising car No. 2. Billboard, September 21, 1918, p. 24.
Cole Brothers' ten-car circus, now stored at Shreveport, La., will be sold by Mrs. J. Augustus Jones, widow of the well known circus man. Epidemic conditions in the South forced the management to run into Shreveport. Billboard, October 26, 1918, p. 54.
1919:
Cole Bros. Shows are touring Canada and will stay in the Dominion about eight weeks, then back to the States for a long season South. Frank Leonard, oldtime elephant and horse trainer, joined the show last week, and has started to break in several new pony acts. Lon Morris has broken in two more mokeys and a dog for his monk act. This makes six monkeys in all. . . . Fred Leslie. Billboard, August 2, 1919, p. 45.
Johnnie Marinella, ring artist and contortionist, is now touring the province of Saskatchewan, Can., with the Cole Bros. Shows. Billboard, August 30, 1919, p. 41.
The Cole Bros. Shows have returned to the U.S.A. after a fifteen weeks' tour of Canada. Roster: E. H. Jones, sole owner and manager; F. L. Anders, legal adjuster; Frank Jones, general superintendent; Frank Goldie, manager sideshow; Al Anderson, manager pit show; "P. T. Barnum" Zerath, supt. animals; Slim Davis, supt. sideshow canvas with four assistants; Whitie Biggs, pit show top with one assistant; Whitie Crossett, trainmaster with five assistants; A. J. Anderson, John Barton, Red Fowler, ticket selelrs; C. V. Crawford, supt. privileges assisted by Mrs. Bertha Crawford and two others; Frank Leonard, equestrian director; Aerial Johnsons, William and Agie; the Whitties, aerial artists, iron jaw and bounding wire; Le Zerados, Frank and Tiny, aerial artists, late of Shipp & Feltus Circus; Johnny Marinello, rings and hand balancing; Babe Mullet and Sis Muca, comedy riding act; Ed Zerath, bull act; Frank Leonards, dog and pony act; Fred Leslie and Lee Smith, comedy bar act; Fred Leslie, producing clown; Lee Smith, Johnny Marinello, Arthur Crawfors, clowsn. Concert: Agnes Loraine, highland fling dances; Georgie Whittie Jr., songs; Amelia Whitte, mandolin soloist; Arthur Crawford, Irish comedian; Lee Smith, novelty balancing act; closing with Fred Leslie's musical comedy. Band: J. A. Norman, director; Thomas Bundy, Earl Price, Ed T. Crawford, George Grupp, A. Crawford, Ed Lake, G. Lowe, Gene Phillips, Lee Hall, Wm. Elsey, Marcus Brooks, musicians. Annex No. 2: Bessie Smith, Nellie Hall, Mae Morre, Lucile Kyle, dances. Denny Helms, boss canvasman assisted by Jack Moore and five others; Milton Grey, boss property man with three assistants; Albert Roseman, supt. cookhouse, assisted by Mrs. Roseman; Andrew Bates, car porter. - Fred Leslie. Billboard, October 4, 1919, pp. 44, 46.
The brigade of the Cole Bros. Shows closed its season at Delhi, La., Nov. 29, after a season of 39 weeks, covering nineteen States and three provinces of Canada. The brigade went farther north than any other show, to Big River, Sask. The brigade was under the management of L. B. Greenhaw, with the following assistants: Col. E. K. Hicklin, R. M. Sherman, E. Colton, A. C. Matts and Jack Stark. Greenhaw went to his home at Leslie, Ark., to take charge of his picture theater. General agent L. C. Gillette visited the brigade the day before it closed. All will be under the E. H. Jones banner next season. - R. M. Sherman. Billboard, December 13, 1919, p. 56.
• More on the 1919 Cole Bros. show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
1920:
Cole Bros.' Show: E. H. Jones, proprietor, manager, treasurer and secretary; L. Gillette, general agents; L. B. Greeshaw(?), local contractor; F. A. Goldie, manager side show; J. Lewis, equestrian director; Frank Jones, supt. privileges; Chas. Smith, musical director; Frank Welsh, supt. reserved seat tickets; Jack Moore, supt. canvas; Bob Cook, trainmaster; Bob Barber, boss hostler; Fred Fay, supt. lights; Ed Zerith, supt. elephants. Opens at Shreveport, La., March 29. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
1926:
John Pluto closed deal in February 1926 with Elmer Jones for lease of title of Cole Bros. Shows and purchased from him sleeping cars and other equipment, including tents, animals, some pones and other goods. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
1928
Title of Cole Bros. World Toured Shows was leased for term of years to Floyd King, at Baltimore, Md., December 13, 1928. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
• 1929: Article on the 1929 Cole Bros. show is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 5, pp. 4-20.
Cole Bros. - 1930 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1929-1930 (Floyd & Howard King, proprietors)
H. S. Ingraham and Bert Rutherford, latter part of August 1930, purchased Cole Bros. Circus from Thomas Hanks, who held mortage on it. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
• An article on the 1930 show is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug-Sep 1954 (scroll down).
• An article on the 1930 Cole Bros. Circus, Floyd King, owner, is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1979, Vol. 23, No. 2, pp. 4-18.
• An article on the 1934 Cole Bros. Circus, Zack Terrell and Jess Adkins, owners, is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1968, pp. 17-18.
Cole Bros. - 1935-40 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1935-1940 (Jess Atkins, Zack Terrell, proprietors)
• Article on the Cole Bros. Circus, 1935-38, is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1964 (scroll down or use find).
• 1935-40: Series of articles on the Cole Bros. Circus, 1935-40 are online in
1935: Show covered 23 States, making 156 stops, with two in Alabama, seven in Arkansas, nine in Georgia, five in Illinois, five in Indiana, six in Iowa, three in Kansas, three in Kent, 1 in Maryland, eleven in Michigan, five in Mississippi, two in Missouri, one in Nebraska, sixteen in New York, seventeen in North Carolina, fourteen in Ohio, five in Oklahoma, ten in Pennsylvania, five in South Carolina, onein Tennessee, two in Vermont, six in Virginia, seven in West Virginia, and thirteen in Canada. Bandwagon, August 15, 1945, Vol. 4, No. 4, p. 6.
1937: Parade line-up of the 1937 Cole Bros. is online in Bandwagon, Sep-Oct 1958 (scroll down).
1938: Program: 1. Spec "Sa Seville"; 2. Harddigg Trio, gymnasts; Hollis Troupe, acrobats; 3. Harriet Featty and her elephant, lion and tiger act; 4. Bessie Hollis, equestrienne; Rita Aurelia, equestrienne; 5. Aerial Ballet (8 girls); 6. Clowns; 7. Clyde Beatty Wild Animal act of lions & tigers; 8. Roland Hebeler's seals; Barnardi's seals; 9. Ken Maynard and his cowboys and cowgirls; 10. Elephant acts in all 3 rings featuring Wantda Wentz, Jean Allen and Betty Stevens; 11. Casca Brothers, rolling globes; Zoppe Family, unsupported ladders; Kinko, tumbling and contortion act; 12. Senor Jose Gonzales; 13. Clowns; 14. Paul Nelson's liberty horses, Jorgen Christiansen's 24 liberty horses, James Foster's liberty horses; 15. Ernie Wiswell's Funny Ford; 16. The Great Silvers, wire act; 17. Clowns; 18. The Aurelia Family, barebacke riders; 19. High school and gaited horses featuring Andera Galligher; 20. The Great Gretonas, high wire act; 21. Clowns; 22. The Peerless Illingtons, flying act, The Flying Harolds, flying act; 23. The Great Florenzo, somersaulting auto. Bannerline, August 15, 1957, p. 3.
1939-40: Brief information in SPEC, Vol. 1, No. 1 (Jan), 1940. Published by Circus Historical Society. Also see brief information on the Cole Bros. fire in 1940 in SPEC, Vol. 1, No. 2, 1940 and the 1940 show in SPEC, Vol. 1, No. 3, 1940.
• An article on the Cole Bros. winter quarters in Rochester, Indiana, 1935-1940, is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1972, Vol. 16, No. 3, pp. 18-26.
Cole Bros. - 1941, 1943 Zack Terrell, proprietor (1941-1948)
• Article on the 1941 Cole Bros. show is online in Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 1976 (scroll down or use find).
• An article on the 1942 Cole Bros. show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1977, Vol. 21, No. 4, pp. 12-24.
1943:
• Zack Terrell, owner and manager. The labor shortage and its effect on the 1943 Cole Bros. show; their 1943 route; and an article, with photographs, on the 1943 show in White Tops, April-May, 1943, Vol. 16, Nos. 5-6, pp. 2, 4, 7-8.
• Also see brief article on the 1943 show, online in Bandwagon, June 1943 (scroll down).
• Article on the 1943 show, with photographs, in White Tops, June-July-August, 1943, Vol. 16, Nos. 7, 8, 9, pp. 7-8. 1943 route is in White Tops, Sept-Oct-Nov, 1943, Vol. 16, Nos. 10, 11, 12, p. 14.
1944-48:
Article on the 1944 show, with photograph of Jean Allen, in White Tops, April-May, 1944, Vol. 17, Nos. 5-6, pp. 5-6.
• An article on the 1944 Cole Bros. show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 2, pp. 4-18.
Cole Bros. - 1949 Jack Tavlin, owner (1949)
• An article on the 1949 Cole Bros. show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1980, Vol. 24, No. 3, pp. 4-18.
Cole Bros. - 1952 Arthur Wirtz, proprietor (1950-1953)
1952: An article on the 1952 show is online in Bandwagon, March 1952 (scroll down).
• An article on the 1951 Cole Bros. is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1981, Vol. 25, No. 6, pp. 4-13.
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Cole Bros.-Clyde Beatty - 1937
• A wagon list for this show is in Bandwagon, February 15, 1944, Vol. 3, No. 1, p. 4.
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James M. Cole - 1946-47 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1936, 1942-48, circa 1956
• Information on the 1946 show is online in Bandwagon, February 1946. (pdf file, page down).
1947: The James M. Cole Circus in 1947 had the Duttons riding act, including Nellie Dutton and two young performers, Ida Mae Kierley and Jimmy Stutz. Master James M. Cole II, age 7, performed the elephants in the center ring. Senorita Flordelian performed on the wire. Grace MacIntosh, the Townsends, Kird Adams' dogs and Joe and Annette Dobas also performed. Lew Barton was equestrian director and handled the liberty horses. Charles Cuthbert directed the band. White Tops, July-August, 1947, Vol. 20, Nos. 7-8, p. 14.
• An article on the James M. Cole Circus, the early years and 1946, is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 2, pp. 4-16.
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Cole All Star Circus - 1989
Billy Martin's Cole All Star Circus toured New York state from January to March in 1989. Bandwagon, January-February, 1990, p. 22.
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Cole's All Star TV Circus (James M. Cole)
1985: James Cole's All Star TV Circus opened in Milton, Pennsylvania, in late January. It toured New York and closed at Sayre, Pennsylvania in late March. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 14.
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Cole-Bradford - 1916
• Owned by Bradford Coleman. Bannerline, November 15, 1953, p. 2.
• Brief information on this show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1987, p. 11.
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Cole & Cooper - 1908, 1913 Show title listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908, 1913
1908:
For sale, Cole & Cooper Show, largest wagon show in America. Will sell as a going concern. Can be run all Winter. 108 head of stock, 8 pony drill, performing lion, 2 performing elephants, 8 cages of wild animals, 1 camel, 1 llama. J. Augustus Jones. Billboard, November 28, 1908, p. 19.
1909 (1908): The Cole and Cooper Shows closed a successful season of forty-two weeks at Meigs, Georgia, December 24, and are now in winter quarters at Thomasville, Georgia. Billboard, January 9, 1909, p. 19.
1913:
Jones Brothers' Shows and Cole & Cooper Shows are both in winter quarters at the Kentucky Sales Stables, Knoxville, Tennessee, under the management of J. Augustus Jones. Billboard, April 12, 1913, p. 39.
The Cole & Cooper Show is now in Tennessee after being in the mountains of Kentucky for the past eleven weeks. The show has been doing good business regardless of bad weather and opposition. It is now headed southward, carrying 30 wagons, 78 head of stock, eight cages of animals, and elephant and a camel. Clarence F. Brown has a concert band of 14 men. Leo. W. North, alto, and Paul Black, trap drummer, joined the show recently. Roster: Fred Elzor, manager; J. B. Wright, asst. manager; James Keenan, Harry McIntyre, George Mills, ticket sellers; Wm. Moore, supt. canvas; Obie St. Clergy, supt. stock; Charles Murphy, supt. props; Ribble Linkons, elephant man; John Schremmer, supt. animals. Sideshow on annex: J. B. Wright, openings; James Keenan, George Mills, Fred Mallory, ticket sellers; Ben Nicholson, supt. canvas; Prince Nemo, ventriloquist, punch, magic; Millie May, sword swallower; Alice Walker, snake enchantress; Lutz and Smith, musical act. Captain Schremner, lion trainer, who handles Wallace, the untamable lion, is another added feature to the sideshow. The show has been out 69 weeks, and only layed off one week. Billboard, August 23, 1913, p. 22.
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Cole & Rice - 1911-12 Show title listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911, 1933-34
1911:
Extensive preparations are going on at the winter quarters of the cole and Rice Circus at Geneva, Ohio. This will be an eight car show with one car in advance. Joe Berris will be equestrian director. Harry Clark and his bunch of clowns have been engaged by Joe Berris for the Cole and Rice Circus. Billboard, March 4, 1911, p. 32.
The Cole and Rice Show Company will open a few miles from the Geneva, Ohio, winterquarters, April 22. The tents will be new and the paper all special. The show will carry ten animal acts. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 23.
1912: On January 10 at Gardner, Florida, the Cole & Rice Shows, which have been entour during the past forty weeks throughout the East and South, were sold to L. C. Gillette, D. C. Hawn, Joe Berris and R. C. Flint. All of these men have been in the show business for a number of years. L. C. Gillette is well known as a general agent. Mr. Hawn is a showman who has handled every position with tented enterprises, from driving stakes to agent. Mr. Berris is one of the oldest equestrian directors in show business. Mr. Flint is a treasurer who has had considerable experience. The show will not close, but will remain out all Winter, touring Florida and other Southern States. Billboard, February 3, 1912, p. 32.
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Cole & Rogers - 1910
Cole & Roger's Railroad Shows, Bessemer, Michigan, July 4, 1910. Has Pat Rooney, monkey making balloon ascension and parachute leap. Bessemer (MI) Herald and New Free Press, July 2, 1910.
• In 1934 Frank Snyder, owner Snyder Bros., titled his show Cole & Rogers. More information is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 1, pp. 23-26.
• The Cole & Rogers title was first used by J. Augustus Jones in 1905-06. Elmer Jones used the title in 1911, 1928-29, and 1934. Bandwagon, March-April, 1977, p. 2.
• Show title listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1905-06, 1911, 1928-1931, 1934
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Cole & Walters - 1951 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1950-53
• An article on the 1951 show is online in Bandwagon, February 1952 (scroll down).
• Article on the Cole & Walters show, 1950-53, is online in "High Grass and Miller Magic," in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1969 (scroll down or use find).
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George S. Cole’s - 1882, 1893
1882: George S. Cole’s Southern Circus and Menagerie billed all towns on the Mississippi River and the Bayou Teche, commencing Jan. 24. A correspondent says: “On the announced dates W. H. Stowe’s Shows, also traveling by boats, put up their tents in the same towns, when the liveliest excitement was caused, both parties having outsiders, street ticket-peddlers, steamboat excursions, street parades, and every artifice was restored to to attract the crowd. This opposition continued until Feb. 1, at several places, the price of tickets being reduced to twenty-five cents. At Franklin a compromise was effected, both shows combining, retaining all their performers, joining street parades, and putting up the largest display of canvas ever seen in this country, and both shows transporting their respective shows on their own boats. The result justified the wisdom of the scheme, and both will continue this combination for the rest of the season. . . . W. H. Stowe assumes the equestrian management, George S. Cole and W. O. Monroe are the directors, and Matt Leland is in advance.” New York Clipper, February 18, 1882.
1893:
Wanted, for the Great Cole Show, sideshow people in all branches, strong man or woman, long haired ladied, midgets, snake charmer with snakes, fire king and strong attraction for free show. Address G. H. Irving, Winderland, Wilkesbare, Pa. New York Clipper, March 4, 1893, p. 842.
Wanted, people in all branches of the circus business, for Cole's New Circus, Museum and Menagerie . . . New York Clipper, March 11, 1893, p. 15.
On the road, circuses: Cole's, . . . Batchellerville NY 2, Luzerne 3, Corinth 5, Stony Creek 6, Warrensburg 7, ?alton 8, Lake George 9, Sandy Hill 10. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
Wanted, to enlarge James W. Chattaway's military band with Cole's Circus. One E flat cornet, one B flat cornet, two altos and E flat clarionet. All must double in orchestra. Address per route to James W. Chattaway, musical director. . . . Bachellerville NY 2, Luzerne 3, Corinth 5, Stoney Creek 6, Warrensburg 7, Bolton 8, Lake George 9, Sandy Hill 10. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 211.
Wanted, strong man, iron jawed, preferred that can do horse lifting, and stone breaking. . . . Cole's Circus . . . New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 226.
Roster of Cole's Colossal Circus. Geo. S. Cole & John Sparks, sole owners; Geo. S. Cole, manager . . . J. M. Wall, contracting agent with eight assistants . . . F.(?) Williams, treasurer; John H. Sparks and Geo. S. Cole, doorkeepers. The following performers: . . . Gregory Bros., three in number; John Fritz(?); Wm. Leavitt, Mlle. Irene . . . Albert Sylvester; Chas. Sparks; Ronaldo . . . Happy Jack Jordon; Wm. Heackey(Beackey?); Prof. Sparks' school of sixteen educated horses and ponies; Prof. Williams' troupe of dogs and cats; Jas. Chattaway's military band of solo musicians, W. B. Sanger . . . Walter James(?), Wm. Hickey, Chas. Jones(?), Geo. Austin(?), Jos. Girard, F.(?) Anderson and Bert Cole. Concert: Sparks Bros., Mlle. Irene . . . John Lancaster, Annie Austin, Wm. Thomas and Bert Cole. Concert ticket sellers, Bert Cole and Chas. Gregory. Candy stands, Gregory Bros. The big top is 120(?)ft. with a __ft. side show. Geo. Irving, owner and manager, with the following people: Blondell(?), strong man; Mlle. La Bell, mind reader; Mlle. Letta, serpent queen . . . Prof. Wise(?), magician; Punch and Judy, birds, monkeys and vampire, Geo. Irving and Bert Cole, ticket sellers. They use a __ft. round top. Jack McGinnis is in charge of top, with three assistants; the big show has eighteen canvas men, Jack Talburt is boss canvas man. Sixty head of stock and three advance wagons are used. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
On the road, circuses: Cole's, New Hartford CT 30 . . . Windsor Locks July 5, Thompsonville 6, Indian Orchard, Mass. 7 . . . New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 265.
On the road, circuses: Cole's, Windsor Locks, CT July 5, Thompsonville 6, Indian Orchard Mass. 7, Chicopee Falls 8. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
On the road, circuses: Cole's, East Hampton, Mass. July 12, Williamsburg 13 . . . New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
Musicians wanted for Cole's Circus, B-flat cornet, E-Flat clarionet. Can also use other musicians to enlarge band. Write, wire per route. J. ?. Chattaway, musical director. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 309.
Notes from Cole's Colossal Shows. Business with us is way up, and has been since the opening last Spring at Brattleboro, Vt. The annex, under the management of Geo. H. Irving, is proving a drawing card. Riondell(?), the strong man, lifts a horse and six men at each performance. Chas. Sparks catches the big show audience with his educated horses; Sylvester's aerial contortion act pleases the people. The Gregory Bros. and Fitz(?), on the bars, are continually springing someting new. John Lancaster, singing clown, supplies the multitudes with the latest songs. The shooting of the Bartlett Family is also much admired. The weather is fine, and our stock is looking remarkably well. We have lately put in hippodrome races, and they go with a vim. Mme. La Bell, wife of Mr. Irving, of the annex, and her little daughter have returned after a week's sojourn with Mr. Irvin's parents at Haverhill, Mass. Mr. Irving was presented with a leather hat box last week by Alfred Sylvester. Everything is harmonious. No accidents of any consequence have happened this season. Prof. Chattaway's band calls forth applause every day for its excellent music. The boys showed their appreciation of the professor the other day by presenting him with a black ebony, silver tipped baton. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
George S. Cole has closed with Sparks' Circus and accepted the position of special manager for Scribner & Smith's Show. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 447.
On the road, circuses: Sparks & Cole, Tarrytown NY Oct 5, Rutherford NJ 6 . . . New York Clipper, October 7, 1893, p. 495.
• Also see Cole & Lockwood.
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George W. Cole; Famous Cole - 1954-65
• Information on this show is online in "High Grass and Miller Magic," in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1969 (scroll down or use find).
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Jose Cole's International Circus - 1983, 1985-86, 1999
1983: This show exhibited in the Dakotas, Minnesota, Florida and other dates in 1983. Bandwagon, January-February, 1984, p. 13.
1985: Jose Cole had his circus in armories and gyms in small towns in Minnesota, the Dakotas and Iowa from March to May. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 14.
1986: The show had its usual split season, appearing in Wisconsin, Minnesota and North Dakota from March through May and in the same territory plus Iowa and Ontario in September. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 15.
1999: In its 25th season, the Jose Cole's Circus played the upper midwest in 1999. Bandwagon, March-April, 2000, p. 20.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1983-1998, Jose Cole, owner.
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Cole & Lockwood - 1894-95 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1894-95
1893:
A new circus company has recently been incorporated, which from the character of its promoters, ought to be an unqualified success. It will be known as the Cole & Lockwood Co., proprietors of the Cole & Lockwood All New United Shows. The proprietors are George S. Cole, a man of wide experience in the circus line, and A. L.(?) Lockwood Jr., who has also made a considerable study of this business. The shows will be entirely news, and Potsdam, N.Y. will be the headquarters. A. L.(?) Lockwood Jr. is president and treasurer, and Geo. S. Cole vice president and manager. As much of the necessary ___ as possible will be manufactured at Potsdam, and the company expect to give their initial performance of the season in Potsdam early in May. New York Clipper, December 30, 1893, p. 687.
Cole & Lockwood All New United Show, incorporated, Geo. S. Cole, Vice President and Manager. A. L. Lockwood Jr., President and treasurer. Permanent address and winter quarters, Potsdam, N.Y. Wanted for tenting season 1894, people in all branches of the circus business. Address Geo. S. Cole, manager, Potsdam, N.Y. New York Clipper, December 30, 1893, p. 697.
1894:
The Royers, Archie and Rose, have signed for the next season with Cole & Lockwood's Kid Glove Show. Archie Royer will be principal clown. New York Clipper, January 20, 1894, p. 735.
From Cole & Lockwood's Shows. The following people have signed with our new show: Charles J. Gregory, George Gregory and John Fritz, triple bars, balancing trapeze, dancing barrel, ___ and cross, and leapers and tumbler; William Lowande, principal bareback somersault rider, who will also ride four horses; Nellie Wilson, hurdle rider and aerialist; Archie Royer, principal clown, leaper, tumbler and all around performer; Mrs. Royer, slack wire and ___ acrobat . . . Prof. Meehan's troupe of performing dogs, goats and monkeys; Newman and King(?), black face comedians and song and dance team. We have secured an equine paradox that go through the school and court scenes fully equal to any troupe of horses in the country. Charles Evans, for the last five years in charge of the stock with Walter L. Main's Show, is engaged as boss hostler. James ___ will be boss canvas man and Jacob Spellman first assistant. J. R. Kennedy, a man of wide experience is advance of large show, seven season in charge of one of the advertising cars of the Barnum & Bailey Show, is engaged as general agent. Other important engagements are pending. Geo. H. Irving will manage an elaborately fitted up and attractive side show. Our new ring hosue will be done in three or four days, and the work of breaking horses will commence Feb. 1. John Kent, of Scribner & Smith's Show, has been here five weeks, looking after the details of getting everything together. He goes back to Scribner & Smith Feb. 1. We are attending to every detail, taking time by the forelock, and will have everything in readiness for our opening early in May. New York Clipper, January 27, 1894, p. 753.
The Royers, Archie and Rose, met with success at Keith's Bijou, Philadelphia, week of Feb. 12. They have signed with the Cole Show for the summer. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
Notes from the Cole & Lockwood winter quarters. "We are very busy getting everything into shape for the inauguration of the tenting season of 1894, every part of which will be new. Our opening day here (Potsdam, N.Y.) will be May 5(?), and if the weather is favorable we anticipate a big send off from our friends and neighbors. Prof. J. W. Chattaway, a popular Philadelphia leader, has engaged to furnish a first class band for us. William Lowande and Bert Cole are breaking horses in the new ring house recently erected. We have just closed a deal with J. T. McCaddon, of the Forepaugh Show, for the performing elephant Modoc. W. J. Leyer, of the Erie (Pa.) Lithograph and Printing Co., called upon us last week and contracted to furnish all our pictorial and descriptive paper, a large part of which will be from special designs. Mr. Lockwood will shortly leave for Chicago to buy three car loads of baggage horses. We will have an early Clipper call, and thorough rehearsals before commencing." New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
Wanted, for Cole & Lockwood Shows, a few more musicians, including E flat clarionet to double clarionets in orchestra. Address J. W. Chattaway, band master, care of Spark's Circus, Madison, Fla. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 31.
Sidney Huftle has been engaged as billposter with the Cole & Lockwood Shows, and John W. Huftle will have charge of advertising wagon No. 1. New York Clipper, March 31, 1894, p. 53.
Cole & Lockwood All New Shows. Call. Season opens at Potsdam, N.Y., Saturday, May _. . . . Go slow on big trunks. Unecessary baggage will not be carried. The smaller your turnk the better you will please the management. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 78.
Mrs. Rose Royer has recovered from her illness and with her husband will join the Cole & Lockwood Circus, April 30. New York Clipper, April 21, 1894, p. 102.
Roster of advertising wagon co. No. 1, of the Cole and Lockwood All New United Shows: John W. Hurtle, in charge of wagon, with billposters W. L. White, Sid Hurtle and Dave Williams; Courtland Harris(?), lithographer; Harry Hurtle, programmer; and Geo. A.(?) Hurtle, in charge of stock. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
The three Gregory Bros. have signed with the Cole & Lockwood Circus for the tenting season. They join the show at Potsdam, N.Y. May 5(?), the opening date. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 117.
Wanted, for Cole & Lockwood's Circus, B flat cornetist. J. W.(?) Chattaway, bandmaster . . . New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 125.
The Cole and Lockwood United Circus visited Morris, NY, Otsego County, late in May, 1894. - Information courtesy Bob Thomas
• The 1894 Cole & Lockwood was a one ring circus. It opened at Potsdam, N.Y., Geo. S. Cole and A. L. Lockwood, owners. Geo. S. Cole, manager; Frank Burns, agent; James Chattaway, band leader; Charles Gregory, equestrian director;; Bert Cole, treasurer; Charles Evans, boss hostler; James Caskey, boss canvasman; George Irving, sideshow owner and manager. On the show were Willie Lowande and wife, riders; Leavitt and Nevel, jugglers, leapers, and tumblers; Gregory Bros., and Fritz, bars, traps and leaps; Archie Royer and John Lancaster, clowns; Mrs. Royer, wire artist; Harry Blondell, strong man, and others. Season closed October 1st. Bandwagon, December, 1943, Vol. 2, No. 7, p. 2.
1895:
Geo. S. Cole, of Potsdam, has purchased the interest of A. L. Lockwood in the Cole & Lockwood circus, and will be sole proprietor of the show this season. Adirondack News (St. Regis Falls, NY), March 16, 1895, n.p.n.
1901: George S. Cole, of Potsdam, one of the oldest circus men in the country, has filed a petition in bankruptcy, his liabilities given at $12,866.57 with no assets. Mr. Cole is best known locally as one of the proprietors of Cole & Lockwood's one ring circus, which wiped out for Mr. Cole the savings of a life time in the circus business. The circus started from Potsdam several years ago and was a financial failure. One item in the schedule is a note for $50.00 payable to A. L. Lockwood and being balance due him from Cole. Another is for $500, payable to William A. May, a farmer of Cazenovia, Virginia, being the board over Sunday of men and horses. Ogdensburg News (Ogdensburg, NY), January 10, 1901, p. 1.
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Cole & O'Neil's Dominion - 1873 (Canada)
Cole & O'Neill's Dominion Circus commenced a tour of Canada at St. Catherines, July 19, Niagara 21, . . . William La Rue, ringmaster; J. Strebig, contracting agent . . . The company consists of Frank Pastor, Senorita Sebantine and Josephine, riders; the La Rue Family, acrobats and equestrians; the Livingstone Brothers, athletes and tumblers; John Rivers, clown; Signor Columbus, snake wonder; and Prof. Rivers' troupe of educated French poodles and monkeys. New York Clipper, August 2, 1873, p. 143.
Cole & O'Neil's Dominion Circus is to exhibit at London, Ont., Aug. 6, 7. New York Clipper, August 9, 1873, p. 151.
Cole & O'Neil's Dominion Circus performed at Petrolla, Canada, Aug. 16. Business is reported good. New York Clipper, August 23, 1873, p. 167.
Cole and O'Neil's Dominion Circus closed their season at St. Catherine's, Canada, Sept. 27, where they will Winter the stock, and the building of a ring house is contemplated. New York Clipper, October 11, 1873, p. 223.
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Cole's Dominion - 1874-75 (Canada)
1874:
Sideshow privileges to let with Cole's Dominion Circus for the season of 1874. Address Sam Cole, St. Catharines, Canada. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 7, 1874, p. 355.
Living curiosities wanted for sideshow with Cole's Great Dominion Circus. Travels in Canada. Also for sale, candy stand and dollar store. Address J. M. Snyder, Erie, Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, March 21, 1874, p. 407.
Cole's Dominion Circus was organized at St. Catherine's, Ont. Sole proprietor and manager Sam Cole; equestrian manager, E. W. Perry; treasurer, H. Cole; leader of orchestra and brass band, Charles Voight; general agent and director, A. F. Patterson; chief billposter, Eugene Switzer; master of circle, O. W. Dodge; director of procession, C. Sherwood; master of horse, Dr. Doan; master of canvas, Jack Callahan; assistant, George Summers . . . E. W. Perry, Charles Sherwood, James B. Stone, Masters Eddie Perry and ___, Minnie Perry, Mme. Sherwood, Mrs. Rhinehart . . . Leapers, vaulters and tumblers, Sam Rhinehart, Fred Herbert, John Maffitt, John Stevens, James B. Stowe, Will H. Stowe, Charles Sherwood . . . Clowns, Sam Rhinehart and W. H. Stowe . . . A feature of the procession will be the band chariot, containing a band of fifteen musicians, drawn by twenty horses driven by John Brown. J. M. Snyder is proprietor of all the privileges. He will have three wagons, one buggy and seven horses. Wagons painted red and white. Japanese Tommy runs the candy stand, and T. G. Strahan the dollar store. [much unreadable text] New York Clipper, April 18, 1874, p. 23.
Cole's Dominion Circus is billed at Hamilton, Ont., May 13, 14, London 24. New York Clipper, May 16, 1874, p. 55.
Cole's Dominion Circus closed the season at St. Thomas, Ont., Oct. 10(?), and several persons connected with the show inform us that "the performers, band and workmen were not paid their salaries." New York Clipper, October 31, 1874, p. 247.
1875:
Concert, sideshow and all other privileges for sale with Sam Cole's Dominion Circus for the season of 1875, to travel in Canada. St. Charles Hotel, New York, Feb. 22. Post office address, St. Thomas, Ont., Canada. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 20, 1875, p. 376.
The North American Circus and Balloon Show will start from St. Thomas, Ont., May 5. Sam Cole, manager; Oscar Willets, contracting agent; H. S. Cole, treasurer; E. S. Perry, equestrian manager; J. Gordon, boss billposter; Ben Holman, boss canvasman; Doct. Bodden, boss hostler; Prof. Perry, director of amusements; Geo. Dunbar, clown; Wash Antonio, trick clown; Horace Nichols, ringmaster; aeronaut, Prof. Paul De Haeon(?); Mme. Turnour, Mlle. Jennie Turnour, Miss Minnie Perry, E. W. Perry, W. W. Nichols, Wm. Johanus, Pete Barr, Donaldson, White, H. F. Nichols, Master Harry, Horace, and George. New York Clipper, April 24, 1875, p. 31.
Fred Couldock, advertising agent with Sam Cole's North American Circus and Balloon Show, started from St. Thomas, Ont., with the pictorial bills on April 24. New York Clipper, May 8, 1875, p. 47.
Antonio and ___ arrived in New York during the past week from Niagara Falls, where they suceeded from Sam Cole's Circus. They had been out five weeks, and they reported business very bad; no salaries paid, etc. New York Clipper, June 19, 1875, p. 95.
• 1876: For sale, circus outfit and animals. One 110 foot round top canvas, with poles, seats, etc., complete; horse tents; band chariots, baggage wagons, ticket wagons, sets harness, chandeliers. 2 pad horses, well broken; ponies, 1 lion, 1 lioness, 1 jaguar, camels, white deer, 1 llama, cages. Address Sam Cole, proprietor Hotel Vanderbilt, New York. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, April 15, 1876, p. 19.
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W. L. Cole's - 1889, 1890; Sieber & Cole, Sieber & Co. - 1891 W. L. Cole's listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1889-1890
1889:
W. L. Cole's Allied Circus is touring Nebraska. Frank Cushing, gymnast joined the show June 22. New York Clipper, July 6, 1889, p. 273.
W. L. Cole's Circus closed Oct. 19 after a successful season, under the management of J. M. Barry. The show shipped to Topeka, Kas., to go into winter quarters. New York Clipper, November 9, 1889, p. 589.
• Brief information on the 1889 W. L. Cole's Great International show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 3, p. 36.
1890:
W. L. Cole's Circus opened its season, April __, at Topeka, Kas., and reports good business. The summer tour lies through the North and Northwest. The roster: S. Skett's band of eight pieces; Lee Bros.; Morning Bros.; Sam Grasburger; Jim Carrier; E. C. Murphy; Mrs. Frankie Ford; Jim Seiber; Godfrey and Plamondon; Al. Seiber boss canvasman; Ed. Freeman, chandelier man; Frank Wieman, boss property man; Cal Wagner, boss animal man; J. M. Barry, manager; and George Seiber, treasurer. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
Wanted, for Cole's Circus and Menagerie, a knockabout clown, bar team that can leap and tumble. Would buy small elephant, one suitable for wagon show. Direct to Broken Bow, Nebraska. Will be there June __. J. M. Barry, manager. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 224.
The following people are with the W. L. Cole's Circus and Menagerie: J. M. Barry, manager; Geo. Sieber, treasurer . . . Frankie Ford, Prof. Bowman and wife, Morning Bros., Sam Grassburger, Lew Cole, Lee Bros., J. T. Carrier, Master Willie Sieber, Louis Plamondon, Prof. Skett, leader of band, with six musicians. The show is traveling through Nebraska and doing a good business. The ghost walks regularly every Thursday. New York Clipper, July 12, 1890, p. 275.
The W. L. Cole Show closed a successful season of twenty four weeks at Topeka, Kan., Oct. 4(?). The show will be greatly enlarged next season. New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 503.
Wanted to buy, for W. L. Cole's Wagon Shows, one elephant . . . ticket wagon, small animals(?), monkeys, wardrobe for ___ and street parade. J. M. Barry, Topeka, Kas. New York Clipper, November 29, 1890, 603.
• Information on the 1890 Cole show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 1, pp. 46-50.
1891:
Lewis Barry, a contractor with W. L. Cole's Circus and Menagerie, and son of J. M. and Eliza Barry, old time circus people, died at his home, Topeka, Kas., Dec. 31, aged twenty-five years, of consumption. Mr. Barry left the Cole show at Lexington, Neb., July ? last, where he lingered until death relieved him of his sufferings. His remains were placed in a metallic casket and buried in his own dooryard. They will be placed in a vault next Spring. Mr. Barry was well liked in the profession. He was considered an excellent contractor, and leaves a widow, a father and mother, and four sisters. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 715.
Topeka, Kansas. Geo. Sieber and J. M Barry, of the Cole & Sieber's Circus, have bought of Wallace & Anderson an elephant, two camels, cages, wagons, etc. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 755.
Geo. Sieber and J. M. Barry, of the Cole & Sieber Circus, have just returned to Topeka from the East, where they had been in search of curiosities for the coming season. They have closed a bargain with the Wallace & Anderson Shows, at Peru, Ind., whereby they receive an elephant, two camels, wardrobe cages and other properties. They are also breaking ring stock at their winter quarters, at Topeka. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 759.
"Senator" Bowman is re-engaged to furnish the museum with W. L. Cole's Circus for the season of 1891. The following features are already engaged: "Senator" Bowman, lecturer, Punch and Judy and magic; Jennie Bowman, snake charmer and lady ___; . . . A big snake and a pair of living vampires are recent additions. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
Roster of the Sieber & Cole Shows for the season of J. M. Barry, manager; ___ Sieber, treasurer; W. L. Cole, sideshow orator; Al. Sieber, general purchaser; Wm. Dorr, equestrian manager; Chas. Covelli, advance agent . . . Prof Worrel, leader of band; Wm. Dorr(?) and wife; Frankie Barry; Senator Murphy; Prof. Bowman and wife, performers. The show will carry a three pole main tent, a four pole menagerie tent; a three pole sideshow tent, two six pole horse tents, eighty head of horses, seven cages, two tableau wagons, a steam calliope, one elephant and two camels. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 5.
Call. All people engaged for the Sieber & Cole Shows will report at Topeka, Kan., Thursday, April 9(?), for rehearsal. Wanted, a boss canvasman and boss hostler. Sieber & Cole, Topeka, Kas. New York Clipper, March 14, 1891, p. 15.
Everything is assuming a lively appearance around the headquarters of Geo. Sieber & Co.'s Shows at Topeka, Kan. The elephant, two camels, tableaux wagons and the wardrobe arrived last week. The ring stock is under the personal management of Prof. Wm. Dorr. The show will probably open at Topeka, April 11. New York Clipper, April 11, 1891, p. 74.
Topeka, Kansas. Seiber & Co.'s Circus had fair patronage considering the weather last week. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 117.
Fort Scott. Prof. Squire Bowman and wife have gone to Topeka to join Geo. Sieber & Co.'s Circus. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 117.
Roster of Sieber & Co.'s Circus: J. M. Barry, manager; Geo. Sieber, treasurer; Lew Cole, Wm. Dorr and wife, Prof. Bowman and wife, Pete Rogan and wife, ___ Grassberger(?), J. T. Carrier, Mohing(?) Bros., James Woods, J. R. Godfrey, Master Jimmie Sieber and W. A. Worel(?), leader of band, with ten pieces. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 198.
On the road, circuses: Sieber & Co., Joplin, Mo. May 27, Galena, Kan, 28, Baxter Springs 29. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
Geo. Sieber & Co.'s Circus, Museum and Menagerie, now touring Missouri, report excellent business. The roster: G. M. Barry, manager; Wm. Dart and wife, Pete Rogan and wife, Prof. Bowman and wife, Mohring(?) Bros., G. T. Carrier, James Woods, Dalzell Bros., Sam Grassburger, Fred Barker, Master Jimmy Sieber, Lew Cole and others. Prof. Rix is leader of band, with seven musicians. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.
Wanted immediately for Sieber & Co.'s Circus, Museum and Menagerie, for long season. People in all branches of the circus business that can do two or more specialties. Also good concert people and reliable four horse drivers. Address Geo. Sieber & Co., ___, Mo. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 322.
Sieber & Co.'s Circus is touring Missouri. William Mohering, of the Mohering Bros., who left the show through illness, has rejoined it. Mrs. Sieber also joined recently. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
Sieber & Co.'s Circus and Menagerie closed their season of thirty-one weeks at Huntington, Ark., Nov. 13, making a very successful season. They will ship to winter quarters at Topeka, Kan. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
• Information on the 1891 Sieber & Co.'s Circus is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 3, pp. 32-35.
• For more information on W. L. Cole and George Sieber see: King, Orin C., The Circus World of Willie Sells, Topeka, KS: Shawnee County Historical Society, 1983.
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W. W. Cole's - 1871, 1873, 1875-77, 1879, 1880, 1882-84, 1886
1871:
[Advertisement] Cole's Colossal Circus and Animal Exhibition combined, with its den of performing lions, herd of camels, and performing elephants. Centerville, Monday, July 24th, 1871. Procession at ten o'clock a.m. consists of the Golden Music Car, containing Bismark's Band of sixteen members. Herr Paulechoff, at the conclusion of each performance, will enter the den of lions, causing them to leap banners, through hoops, &c., concluding with feeding them raw meat from the naked hand. The liliputian elephant will be introduced by Prof. King. Herd of camels imported for this exhibition.
1873: Brief article on W. W. Cole's New York & New Orleans Zoological & Equestrian Exposition of 1873 is online in Bandwagon, December 1961 (scroll down or use find).
1875:
A singular incident occurred in Burlington, Ia., a week or two ago. It will be remembered that W. W. Cole, proprietor of Cole's New York and New Orleans Circus, conceived the idea of familiarizing the countrymen with the faces of the principals in the Brooklyn scandal. The therefore had wax figures made in New York representing the Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, Mrs. Beecher, Theodore Tilton and Elizabeth. It appears that Mr. Cole's enterprise was understood in New York, and the figures were followed to Quincy by a special detective. When about to start on his summer tour, Mr. Cole was notified by Mr. Beecher's attorneys that legal steps would be taken to prevent the exhibition of himself and wife in wax. Mr. Cole concluded to disregard the announcement, and when the circus opened at Burlington Mr. Beecher was found there too, in effigy. The day following, one J. W. Williams appeared in Burlington with a power of attorney from Mr. Beecher and obtained an injunction forbidding Mr. Cole's exhibiting Mr. and Mrs. Beecher in his circus. After a sharp legal fight the case was closed - the show case, that is - and the remainder of the exhibition allowed. A hearing is to be had in Burlington Tuesday. Meanwhile Williams threatens to enjoin Mr. Cole wherever he goes. Mr. Cole insists upon his right to exhibit the figures. It is an excellent advertisement for both parties, but the circus man is going to get the best of it. Decatur Republican (IL), May 20, 1875, n.p.n.
Four or five hundred people, men, women and children, were attracted last evening to the square between Third and Fourth streets, on Broadway, to witness a free exhibition of stereoscopic views, thrown from a canvas which had been erected on the balcony of the Murdock House. The performance was given by the agent of Cole's Circus and Menagerie, and consisted of a series of views representing the many features of the show, besides a number of advertisements of our merchants. Logansport Star (IN), June 29, 1875, p. 1.
The managers of Cole's Circus and Menagerie are about as graceless a set of blackguards as ever meandered through the country. They seem to carry with them a gang of loafers, from the highest down to the candy butchers. On the night of their appearance here they rushed through their circus performance as soon as it began to rain, even cutting out some of the acts so as to force those who were under the canvas to buy tickets for the "snide" nigger show or go out in the rain. The thanks are due Sheriff Manly for refusing to do either, and conseling the others not to leave in the rain. The showmen attempted to drive the citizens from the canvas, but the Sheriff informed them that if they persisted in this he would have the whole gang arrested and lodged in jail. The folks remained, under shelter, and didn't pay for it, either. Logansport Star (IN), July 7, 1875, n.p.n.
• 1875: article on the 1875 show online in Note Sheet (Circus Historical Society), May 1945.
1876:
The wagons, horses, cages, &c., belonging to Cole's Menagerie and Circus arrive a little after five o'clock this morning by Grand Trunk . . . At the head of the procession was a gilted band chariot drawn by a team of horses and ten camels, in which were about twenty musicinas. The followed in succession knights and ladies on horseback, war chariots driven by ladies on horseback, a gilded chariot in shape like a dragon, a richly caprisoned young elephant, a cage containing two lions and a leopard, in which Conklin the tamer was composedly sitting, a number of cages containing animals, a glass cage of serpents, in which sat at Hindoo fondling the loathsome reptiles, another handsome gilded chariot, and a calliope or steam organ, on which was played a number of popular airs, ended the long line. Fastened on top of several of the cages were performing automatons, which went through a number of laughable antics. Guelph Mercury (Ontario, Canada), July 12, 1876.
1877:
Cole's Circus did a losing business in Western North Carolina. Immense crowds would gather, but few had money to get in. One night only $11 was taken in. It was refunded and no show given. Petresburg Index and Appeal (VA), October 25, 1877, p. 1.
1879:
Yesterday afternoon Mr. D. A. Townsend, advance agent of the Great London Circus, was in the city in company with Mr. L. E. Cook, agent of Cole's Circus. They called at the Gazette office and from them we learn that they have come to an understanding by which they have so changed their routes in this State as not to conflict. Cole's circus will take the line of the Chicago & Northwestern railroad and the London show will follow the line of the Milwaukee & St. Paul road. Cole's circus will not appear in this city as announced, but the Great London will be here on the 25th of June. Janesville Gazette (WI), May 29, 1879, n.p.n.
1880:
The Electric Light. Hagerstown will, for the first time since its discovery, have an opportunity of witnessing this new and powerful illuminator. W. W. Cole's Circus will use it on Thursday, Sept. 4. This light caused by electricity requires a 20 horse power engine, 30 horse power boiler, and yards of insulated telegraph wire. It is a great, bright, dazzling light, yet emits no heat. A newspaper of the finest print can be read two miles from the jets. Colors appear natural. Blue is blue; green is green, which is not the case with gas light. There are no dangers in its use. It does not vitate the air, and is perfectly white. A thousand gas jets have the appearance of a few tallow candles burning when place by the side of the wonderful electric light. The only expense attending it being the original investment of engine, telegraph wire and machine or battery which amounts to about fifteen thousand dollars. The actual daily cost of the light is merely a trifle. It is the light of the future, and will soon be utilized so as to illuminate cities. It is certainly the greatest discovery of the present century, and has caused more astonishment, excited more admiration and is the theme of more conversation than any circumstance that has come to the notice of the public within the last decade. It is a most beautiful light, almost indiscribable. Hagerstown Mail (Hagerstown, MD), March 5, 1880, p. 2.
[Advertisement] First Exhibition in Hagerstown of the Wonderful Electric Light. The tents will be illuminated with this new and greatest invention of the age. The electric light is now in use in Paris, France, and London, England, and it is only a question of time when it will supplant gas and all other illuminating agencies in this and all other countries. We use ten electric light chambers, yielding a volume of light equal to 30,000 gas jets. The light will also be on exhibition in the day time, so that all can see its workings.
Cole's circus will not visit Decatur on May 4th as announced, as Sells Brothers stupendous aggregation is to be here on April 29th. The general agents of the two circuses met in St. Louis on Monday, compared notes and effected a compromise, Cole taking certain towns in Indiana, and Sell Brothers the larger cities in Illinois. Later in the season Cole will probably pitch his tents in Decatur. Decatur Weekly Republican (Decatur, IL), April 1, 1880, p. 1.
Wm. Gerhardt, of Johnstown, a noted acrobat, has entered into an engagement with the W. W. Cole Circus Combination for the ensuing season. Indiana Progress (Indiana, PA), April 1, 1880, n.p.n.
The Messieurs De Comas, a troupe of aerial bicyclists, now with W. W. Cole's circus and menagerie, have invented an ingenious contrivance. Their performance consists of riding an ordinary bicycle upon a wire something over fifty feet from the ground, and to this is attached a trapeze upon which two of the brothers accomplish a number of exploits while the bicycle rider propels them from one end of the canvas to the other with the velocity of the wind. Freeborn County Standard (Albert Lea, MN), June 17, 1880, n.p.n.
1882:
The first elephant ever offered for sale at public auction in this country was sold Saturday afternoon, at the stock yards of Charles Reiche & Bro. in Hoboken. The elephant has never been exhibited in public. Bidding opened at $2,000 and was finally worked up to $6,600, the purchaser being Mr. Cole, of the New York and New Orleans circus. Decatur Review (Decatur, IL), January 29, 1882, n.p.n.
William Simpson has signed a contract to travel the coming season with Cole's circus, as boss canvasman. Connersville Times (Connersville, IN), February 15, 1882, n.p.n.
1883:
The largest lithograph ever printed has been produced by the Strobridge Lithographing Company, of Cincinnati. It is a showbill for Cole's circus, giving the main scenes, including forty-five acts. The central figure is the elephant Samson, as large as life. The entire bill is seventy feet long and twelve feet high. Each one takes one hundred and five sheets of paper, and the artists in printing the six colors used four hundred stones, thirty by forty inches, weighing seventy tons. The cost is $10 each, and one thousand have been ordered. Indiana Weekly Messenger (Indiana, PA), April 4, 1883, p. 1.
• 1883: Business staff: J. Evans; Frank Lemens; L. Cooke, advance manager; R. Campbell, contracting agent; H. Madigan, car #2; A. Richards; Geo. McGlasson; Chas. Swalls, railroad contractor; W. Boyd, car #1; Frank Pitsker, skirmishing brigade.
1884:
By arrangement with other managers and through a number of carefully planned contracts shutting out other shows, W. W. Cole has secured the exclusive privilege of exhibiting throughout the Northwest and all territory west of Omaha, including Utah, California and Oregon. Salt Lake Daily Tribune (Salt Lake City, UT), February 24, 1884, n.p.n.
1886:
W. W. Cole's Circus. — Here is a roster of this organization, which opened in St. Louis, Mo., for week of May 3-8; W. W. Cole, sole proprietor and manager; E. D. Colvin, assistant-manager; Geo. H. McGlasson, treasurer; A. E. Richards, assistant-treasurer and press-agent; T. B. Mclntyre, equestrian-manager; John Worland, starter of races; Sawyer Dutton, time-keeper; George Conklin, superintendent of animals; Al. D. Good, leader of band; Frank Eckels, master of horses; John Kelly, master of canvasers; Dick Rodgers, master of properties; Lizzie Alcott, costumer; Dan Greene, manager of annex; A. Hathaway, lecturer; F. Lemen, manager of Hotel de Cole and concert; A. M. Van Zandt, router of parade and layer-out. Riders: James Leon, Wm. Dutton, Charles Lowry, Wm. O. Dale, Chas. Watson, Miss Kate Watson, Edith Richards, Emma Sinclair and Lizzie McIntire. Specialties: Livingston Bros, (three), the Silbons (four), John Worland, Ernest Cooke, Burt Richardson, Billy Milton, George Milton, T. B. Mclntyre, Harry Murtz, Dr. Carver and his Wild West Show complete. New York Clipper, May 8, 1886. Information should be checked with additional sources
Coleman's Show - 1887 (Charles Coleman Ten Cent Circus)
Opened in Lancaster on August 19-22; 125 ft. round top, 33 people, gave no ring performance. New York Clipper, August 27, 1887, p. 374.
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E. E. Coleman's Circus Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1929
• An article on Elbert E. Coleman's 1929 Coleman Motorized Circus is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1999, Vol. 43, No. 1, pp. 21-29.
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A. P. Collier's - 1897
Ed O. Ferguson has signed with A. P. Collier's Shows as general agent, his fifth season with the show. Harry Le Fay has signed as aerial equilibrist, his second season. New York Clipper, March 13, 1897, p. 29.
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G. W. Collins - 1876
G. W. Collins' Museum, Menagerie and Parlor Entertainment, traveling in Kansas, is reported doing well. The proprietors are H. Buckley, E. Buckley, and G. W. Collins. The company includes Mons. and Mlle. Austin, trapeze; Miles Dryon, Lowande, Zowloski, the Misses E. Johnston, Caroline Ray, and Emily Claxton, Messrs. Frank Joy, H. C. Colwell, Signors Alberti, Alberdeen, Master Doire . . . New York Clipper, October 28, 1876, p. 247.
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W. L. Collins - 1877, 1893-94
1877:
Performers wanted for W. L. Collins' Oriental Combination Circus for the tenting season of 1877. Persons to do the following acts: bottle pyramids, dancing barrel, contortion, horizontal bar, trapeze, juggling, tumbling, leaping, tight rope, cannon-ball, posturing, etc., can hear of something to their interest by addressing until June 10. Would like to hear from the Royal Japanese Troupe. W. L. Collins, Owensboro, Ky. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, May 19, 1877, p. 64.
The Oriental Circus is to exhibit in Enterprise, Ind., July 9, Newburg 10, Evansville 11, Henderson, Ky., 12, thence up the Kentucky River. General manager, William Collins; assistnat L. O'Brien; equestrian director, A. L. Field; treasurer, Harry King; musican director, Prof. Craig. Clowns, A. Field and Billy Dupue. Riders: George and Millie Dupue, Senorita Serano and H. A. Day; trapeze, the Rosavella Brothers; running globe, Amelia Wambold; posturing, the Field Brothers. Miscellaneous performers, Signor Patapsco(?), Mr. Nagle, A. Duvaul, George Carl, Tony Marks, S. Showles and L. Kincade. They have 10 ring horses and 4 baggage. W. Phillips is master of canvas with six assistants. One 110 ft. round to tent and they travel on their own steamboat. An outside ascension is given daily by Little Lula. Jas. Donaldson and J. S. Clarke are the agents. The show was organized in Owensboro, Ky. New York Clipper, July 14, 1877, p. 126.
The Oriental Show closed at Brownstown, Ind., Aug. 7, for two weeks, Mr. Collins retiring from the management on account of ill health. Hamilton Howard has bought the entire show, and is refitting it, preparatory to an extensive southern tour. The first show will be given at Brownstown, Ind., Aug. 22, thence to Courtland 23, Hope 24, and through southern Ohio, Virginia, Kentucky, etc. New York Clipper, August 18, 1877, p. 165.
• 1879: see L. W. Craig's
1893:
W. L. Collins' One Ring Circus and Railroad Show want riders with stock. Musicians and other specialties. . . . Ora Collins. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 210.
W. L. Collin's One Ring Circus wants people in all branches. Riders with stock, singing and talking clown, musicians, and boss canvas and chandelier man. Address Ora Collins, Owensboro(?), Ky. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 223.
Notes from W. L. Collins' One Ring Circus. We opened at Owensboro, Ky., June ?, to a packed canvas and have been doing big business up to date. We are using a 90(?)ft. top, with two middle pieces. Everything is brand new from stake to pole. The following is the roster: W. L. Collins, sole owner; Ora Collins, manager . . . Sallie Davidson; Perl Alexander . . . Anderson Bros.; Frank Allen; the Nevins(?) . . . Prof. Davidson's(?) balloon show. . . . and Frank M. Pierce's orchestra. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
W. L. Collins' One Ring Circus wants singing and talking clown, riders with stock, and other features, musicians, troupe of dogs. Sideshow privilege to let. Owensboro, Ky. Ora Collins. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 245.
Roster of W. L. Collin's Moral Show. Mlle. Jennette, Anderson Bros., the Martinoes(?), Hoddy(?) Bros. . . . Perry Cleveland, Fillmore and Adams, Rosehammer(?), Frank Allan and the Alexanders. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
Wanted quick, for W. L. Collins' One Ring Circus. People in every line for circus and concert; also troupe of dogs and other trained animals, small band. Ora Collins, Owensboro, N.Y. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 338.
Wanted quick, for W. L. Collins' One Ring Circus, people in every line of circus and concert; also troupe of dogs and other trained animals. Small band. Ora Collins, Owensboro, Ky. New York Clipper, August 5, 1893, p. 355.
1894:
Wanted, for W. E. Collins' One Ring Circus, male and female performers, musicians and concert people, balloon man, experienced agent, trained animals, twenty billposters, chandelier and canvas men. Address Oliver Brown, ___ Fourth Street, Owensboro, Ky. All others address Ora Collins, Owensboro, Ky. We open May 28. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 143.
W. L. Collins, proprietor of Collins' One Ring Circus, denies the statement published in out July 7 issue to the effect that he brought people to Owensboro, Kentucky, and then did not pay their hotel bill. Mr. Collins claims to have carried out his part of the contract, and lays the blame for the company's closing against the performers. New York Clipper, July 21, 1894, p. 309.
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Colorado Bill's - 1917-19 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1917
1917: Managed by F. Richards, the 1917 Colorado Bill Show played in Texas, Oklahoma and Kansas. An overland show, moving on 25 wagons and two trucks. They had 60 head of baggage stock and several Shetland ponies. The big top was a 60 ft. round end with four 30 ft. middle sections. Bandwagon, September-October, 1962, p. 19.
1918:
Wanted quick. Cook, boss canvasman, four girls for cabaret show, single and double aerial acts, advance man. Write Colorado Bill's Show, Josquin, Texas. [Advertisement] Billboard, February 16, 1918, p. 2.
Route, Colorado Bill Shows: Ladds, Ark., 7; Tarry 8; Moscow 9; Grady 10. Billboard, August 10, 1918, p. 44.
Lepanto, Ark., Oct.31. Colorado Bill's Show has been laying over here for the past three weeks because of the epidemic. All the paraphernalia is being overhauled and repaired for the winter tour. With favorable conditions the show will open here November 4. The show will leave here with fourteen wagons, three cages, and 4 touring cars. F. Richards will handle the advance, Elax Ingram still has the cookhouse and Savoi La Starr, the big-footed clown, wil remain with the show until December 1 or later. Billboard, November 9, 1918, p. 32.
1919:
Colorado Bill's Shows are closed for a few weeks at La Grange, Ga., to make repairs in all departments. When the show reopens it will consist of fifteen wagons, four cages and three new trucks, and will carry fifty head of draft stock, fifteen head of ring stock, and a new spread of canvas. Billboard, April 19, 1919, p. 34.
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Colorado Grant's - 1909, 1913, 1916 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1901-1916
1909: Colorado Grant's Show: Colorado Grant, proprietor; R. G. Storier, manager; S. C. Stanfield, general agent; Nat Robinson, R. R. contractor; John Lewis, local contractor; Henry Cox, special & excursion agent; S. C. Stanfield, press agent; R. G. Stoner, manager side show; Colorado Grant, treasurer; Geo. Lewis, manager commissary dept.; Henry Grant, equestrian director; C. Garnett, supt. of canvas; Pete Ayres, supt. of transportation; Lewis Dodson, supt. of animals; Dock Ranchard, supt. of privileges; Joe Whitney, supt. of stock; Jim Hicks, supt. of props. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1913: Colorado Grant's Show - Mrs. Madalyn Grant, manager; S. Stanfield, manager; Henry Grant, treasurer; Miss Bettie Jackson, secretary; Nat C. Robinson, general and contracting press agent; Poll Smith, sideshow manager; Jos. Reed, equestrian director; Daddie Lewis, superintendent privileges; Frederic Turner, musical director; C. Garnett, superintendent canvas; Jos. Lee, boss hostler; John Lewis, superintendent commissary department; V. Whitton, superintendent lights; Jim Hicks, superintendent props; Cliff Boyd, superintendent ring stock; C. Garnett, superintendent working crew; Frederic Turner, boss carpenter; Poll Smith, superintendent animals; Fattie Landers, blacksmith; Nat. C. Robinson, announcer. Show opens at Sparta, Ky. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1916: Colorado Grant Show. Miss Colorado Grant, proprietor & manager; Elmer C. Meyers, asst. manager Henry Grant, treasurer; Leon Cox, secretary; Henry L. Cox, general agent; James Wilison, contracting press agent; Poli Smith, equestrian director; Joe Lee, general supt.; Spider Green, supt. privileges; Frederic Turner, musical director; Colorado Grant Jr., supt. reserved seat tickets; Dave Miller, supt. canvas; Tom Harris, boss hostler & supt. ring stock; James Jones, supt. lights & working crew. Show opens at Sparta, Kentucky, April 29. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
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Commerford & Shea Animal Shows
• Show was out in 1974-75. Circus Report, November 25, 1974, p. 4.; Bandwagon, January-February, 1976.
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Comstock's - 1894
Mt. Auburn. Ned Comstock's circus showed here Saturday evening. There was the usual number of "suckers." - July 24. Weekly Herald-Despatch, (Decatur, IL), July 28, 1894.
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Connor & Lopez - 1860
• 1860: online at Clipper, February 11 (scroll down)
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Conner's Indoor - 1912
Park B. Prentiss, the hustling circus band master, did not lose much time after the close of the Conner's Indoor Circus, having immediately put his band on the train for Cleveland, O., where he joined the Robinson and Spellman Hippodrome shows, which opened in that city December 9. Billboard, December 21, 1912, p. 38.
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Conklin's Circo Americano - 1866 (Mexico)
• 1866: online at Clipper, July 14 (scroll down)
• Brief information on Peter Conklin's Conklin Brothers' Great American Circus and Menagerie, Conklin & Gilchrist, and Conklin's career is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1969, pp. 17-20.
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Conklin & Gilchrist - 1891
1891: Peter Conklin and Geo. Gilchrist have entered into a new enterprise. They have organized a show for the winter season and will travel on their golden gondolas, towed by the steamer Ramble. They will tour the Mississippi River and its tributaries. The show will be known as the great Historical War Museum and Optoramma(?). The Optoramma consists of a series of oil paintings, in all embracing over 2,000 sq. ft. of canvas of the late war from Fort Sumter to Appomattox Court House. In the museum are a fine collection of war relics, Pearl Gillchrist (mind reading and second sight), Prof. Anderson (wizard), Prof. C. Silverman and his wooden headed family, Mons. Gazzalo (human flame), Melle Adre's school of educated rattle snakes, Robinson's troupe of glassblowers, Maj. F. Mason's fife and drum corps, Lieutenants Chas. De?nan and J. Lowis in their lightning drill and gun spinning act. They are lieutenants of the famous Busch Zouaves. Peter Conklin and Geo. Gillchrist, sole owners and managers; Peter Conklin Jr., treasurer; L. A. Young, advance agent; W. Lowis, lithograph and programme agent; Capt. A. J. Northcraft, E. F. Sodd, pilot; Tome Reese, engineer; Billy Woods, first mate; C. Weber, steward, and R. Tiche, cook, with two assistants. They will leave St. Louis the latter part of this month. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
1892: Pete Conklin's Golden Gondola Show has been playing Memphis for three weeks. G. W. Gilchrist is no longer connected with the show. The War Museum proved a great attraction in the South. Prof. Danforth, with his Palace of Illusions, has joined the show. Business is good. New York Clipper, January 23, 1892, p. 763.
Conklin's Big Shows - 1900
Col. Pete Conklin's Big Shows. Advance: General agent, Floyd C. Fox; Press agent, H. W. Fox; Programmer, Percy Jenkins; Bill posters: Charley Cox, Willie Morton. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
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Conkling & Zaro's - 1897
Note from Conkling & Zaro's Winter Circus. We have the following people this week: Will E. Conkling and wife, George Zaro, Dot Zaro, Little Frankie Conkling, Dude Conkling, Tid Conkling, Delah Conkling, Moria La Verne . . . Business continues fair. We give three shows weekly. We will close our Winter circus about the first of May and take out a wagon show of ten people. John and Ollie Morgan have closed with us and are now with La Pearl's Winter Circus. New York Clipper, February 6, 1897, p. 781.
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Conkling's - 1912
Conkling Tent Show - Chas. E. Conkling, prop. and mgr.; M. J. Heroy, advance press agent; John Cady, boss hostler; Mel Rogers, supt. lights. Show opens at Matteawan, N. Y., about May 1. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
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Conroy Bros. Circus - 1930, 1932, 1935 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1928-1939
• A one ring show, Sonny Burdett and Leroy Easter, owners, operated through 1939. Band: Rube Egan, leader, snare drum; Les Orton, trumpet; Vernon Leidke, clarinet; Ted La Velda, bass drum. Rube Egan (Elmer Egan) also worked a basket horse. Vernon Leidke (Aerial Orton) was killed at Dallas, Texas from a fall when testing new rigging. Les Orton, lived in Des Moines, Iowas, was from the old Orton Bros. Circus, son of Miles Orton. Sonny Burdett and his wife, Dot, were on King Bros. Circus several years. Circus Report, Vol. 1, No. 44, 1972, p. 3.
• This show was touring in 1930. Bandwagon, March-April, 1983, p. 8.
1932: Conroy Bros, circus will be in Alden, Monday, August 8, at the ball park under the auspices of the American Legion and business men. Many of the acts found under the big top are from the circus and with the novel features added, make up a well balanced program that will be something new for 1932. Put on in the old time one ring circus style with its pony acts, dogs, monkeys and goats and those comical clowns with their mule, aerial and wire artists combined with novelties. An entertaining and educational part of the Conroy Bros. show is the miniature cages and baby animals
housed under a separate spread of canvas. Alden Times (Alden, IA), August 4, 1932, p. 1.
1935: Conroy Bros, circus and show will exhibit in Lake Park next Friday, July 12 for one day only, at the city park. This circus comes well recommended for youug and old, and will give two performances, at 2 o'clock in the afternoon and at 8 o'clock in the evening. They carry a large number of interesting acts — trained ponies, goats, dogs, contortionists, acrobats, clowns, jugglers, etc., and is a show well worth seeing. Regular admissions are 35 and 30 cents for adults and children respectively, with a special offer in merchants tickets. This circus is shown under the auspices of the Lake Park Baseball
club that will be given a specified percentage
of the receipts. Lake Park News (Lake Park, IA), July 4, 1935, p. 1.
Note: Dot Burdet who is listed in the Conroy Bros article, is 92 years young and lives in Plymouth, Illinois. Just talked to her this past Sunday, Jan 27, 2012. She does some talks on Circus life to various school children. I also trouped with her and Sonny in the late 1940’s while traveling with the Jay Gould Circus. I am one of the Albrecht’s or Albrights, and my father was in the business for over 60 years, with his dogs and ponies.
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Conroy's Great American - 1893
Conroy's Great American Circus. Wanted, for the tenting season 1893. Male and female performers in all branches, acrobats, aerialists, singing and speaking clowns, specialists, musicians, troupe of performing horses, dogs, etc.; also agent, one thoroughly acquainted with the eastern states; boss canvas man, chandelier and property men. Musicians address Dan O'Brien, 17 Dannell Avenue, Pawtucket, R.I. Others address E. J. Conroy, 87(?) Adams Avenue, Central falls, R.I. Would like to hear from Frank Wyckoff and Gus Lemk(?). New York Clipper, January 21, 1893, p. 747.
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Continental Circus
• Continental Circus, Charles Seldman, 1974. Bandwagon, January-February, 1975.
• Continental Circus, listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1974; 1982 (Kane Fernandez & Ralph Yampke, owners); 1993 (Paul Kaye, owner).
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Circus Continental - 1989, 1990
1989: Peggy Cline Kaltenbach's Circus Continental booked about ten weeks of Midwestern fairs in the Summer. Bandwagon, January-February, 1990, p. 19.
1990: Peggy Klein Kaltenbach of Palatine, Illinois, played small town fairs and other dates in the Midwest and East, sometimes using the Circus Continental title. Bandwagon, January-February, 1991, p. 17.
• Show is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1992-95, 1998-2000.
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Conway's American Circus - 1880
Equestrians, male and female, and other performers in all branches of the profession, also an agent, are wanted for Conway's American Circus. Fred A. Witman(?). New York Clipper, May 8, 1880, p. 51.
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Cook's English and American - 1875-76
1875:
Cook's English and American Circus, a new company, under the management of John Stowe, has been organized, and will travel by wagons through Michigan, Indiana, Ohio, and so on South, where they intend to remain all Winter. Harry Cadona, Wm. Miles, and the Orrin Family are members of the company. They give their first show at St. Joseph, Mich., July 21. New York Clipper, July 24, 1875, p. 135.
Cook's English Circus, a remnant of the late Sadler's Circus, is showing in the small towns of Western Michigan. Matt Longwell is the proprietor, and West(?) Stowe the agent. [may be John Stowe] New York Clipper, August 14, 1875, p. 157.
Cook's English and American Circus, under the sole proprietorship and management of Will H. Stowe, is to show in Louisville, Ky., Oct. 18. New York Clipper, October 23, 1875, p. 239.
Cook's English and American Circus is reported doing good business on the Mississippi River. They were at Natchez Nov. 11, Bayou ___, La., 12, Waterloo 13. A correspondent says that in consequence of the large cotton crop, business is very good everywhere through the South this year with circuses. Twenty young ladies are advertised for. New York Clipper, November 20, 1875, p. 271.
1876:
Cook's English Circus will close its present season about March 23, and then reorganize for the season of 1876, giving the first show at Cairo, Ill., April 10(?). The company at present traveling with this show includes Nick Norton, Harry Cadona, Senorita Cadona, Happy Jack Lawton, Geo. Orrin, Miss Kate Orrin, Chas. Orrin, Wm. Orrin, Eddie Orrin, Wm. G. Miles, Miaco Sisters, James Stowe, John Robinson, Wm. Westegard, Sam Dicky, Joe Mairs(?), Wm. Howard; Will H. Stowe, proprietor; Prof. Cooke and performing dogs and monkeys; Frank Stowe, leader of band; John Fulton, sideshow privilege. For the season of 1876 Cook's Circus will use Frank Stowe's patent reserved opera-chairs. A den of performing animals and a small elephant are wanted. Will H. Stowe, proprietor of Cook's Circus, has just purchased fo the Big Sandy Packet Company of Cincinnati, O., a steamer, a large river boat with accomodations for 10,000 people. New York Clipper, January 8, 1876, p. 327.
Cooke's Great English and American Circus performed in Floyd, La., Jan. 8, Delhi 10, Crooket's Point, 11, Warsaw 12, Osborne's 13, Denmark 14. New York Clipper, January 22, 1876, p. 343.
Cook's Great English and American Circus. Will H. Stowe, proprietor and manager, Helena, Arkansas. New York Clipper, March 11, 1876, p. 395.
Cook's English Circus closes the present tenting season March 20. The proprietor, Will H. Stowe, advertises for advance, contracting and press agents for the coming season. New York Clipper, March 18, 1876, p. 407.
Cook's English and American Circus showed in Batesville, Ark., March 13, Newport 14, Augusta 15, West Point 16 . . . New York Clipper, March 25, 1876, p. 415.
Cook's Circus exhibited in Mt. Vernon, Ill., April 14, Henderson, Ky., 15. New York Clipper, April 22, 1876, p. 31.
Dan Rice's New Show and Cook's English Circus have consolidated, and will be exhibited under one tent. The concern will be known as Dan Rice's New Show and Great Moral Circus. Dan Rice will positively appear as clown.
Will exhibit in St. Paul, Minn., about July 10. Address Dan Rice and Will H. Stowe, proprietors and managers. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, June 24, 1876, p. 104.
The property formerly belonging to the show called Dan Rice's New Show will be sold at sheriff's sale, at Ashland, Ky., Oct. 3. New York Clipper, September 9, 1876, p. 191.
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Cook's - 1893
On the road, circuses: Cook's Ashland TN May 31, Allen's Creek June 1, Napier 2, Lawrenceberg 3, Pulaski 5, Elton 6, Petersburg 8, Booneville 9, Lynchburg 10. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
On the road, circuses: Cook's, Albany, KY Aug 7, B??dstown TN 8, Pall Mall 9, Jamestown 10 . . . New York Clipper, August 5, 1893, p. 347.
On the road, circuses: Cook's, Glen Mary TN Aug 16, Helenwood 17 . . . Holly Hill KY 19. New York Clipper, August 19, 1893, p. 379.
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Col. Cook Consolidated Shows - 1893
Col. Cook, proprietor, Frank Stowe, manager. Bandwagon, May-June, 1994, p. 33.
Col. Cook's Consolidated Shows, which have been spending the Winter here will open the season today by two exhibitions daily for a week. The features of the show will be gymnastic, minstrel, musical and canine wonders. Florence Times (Florence, AL), April 15, 1893, p. 3.
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Cook & Baker - 1895 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1895
Roster of Cook & Baker United Wagon Shows, enroute through Kentucky: Zelma Cook and J. E. Baker, owners; J. E. Baker, manager. Performers: Dudley and Frank Goehran, double trapeze, swinging perch and slack wire; Charles Baldwin, aeronaut; John Baker, high wire and principal leaper . . . Etta Baker, serio comic and dancer; S. Speers, side show manager; Blue Mountain Charley, magic and Punch; Mary McManus, vocalist and dancer; Edith Johnson, Circassian queen; Waxey Royle, boss canvasman with five assistants; C. A. Bradeen, general contracting agent, and Wm. Wilks, advance. We opened the season May 18, at Benton, Kentucky and played a return date at Benton, May 25. This is an eleven wagon show. New York Clipper, June 8, 1895, p. 213.
A correspondent informs us that the Cook & Baker Show that started out of Benton, Ky., two weeks ago, went to pieces at Golden Pond, Ky., on June 3. New York Clipper, June 15, 1895, p. 228.
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Cook & Barrett - 1905-07 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1905-07
1906:
The Schiller Brothers are getting things to look tip top around the winter quarters of the Cook & Barrett Show. Mr. Schiller is enlarging his show, it is said, having purchased considerable property of the Wm. P. Hall Show. Col. Weaver purchased a sixty-foot Pullman for the privilege department.
Roster of Cook & Barrett Combined Railroad Shows: R. F. Schiller, general manager; John Schiller, general agent; R. H. Porter, car manager; Jas. Randolph, superintendent of billposters; H. Smith, superintendent of sideshow; C. C. Gibson, master of transportation; F. Harlan, superintendent of stock; R. Jones, superintendent of menagerie; Geo. Jennier, equestrian director; Will Clemens, superintendent of cook house; E. J. Gildersleeve, superintendent of privileges; H. Sifley, adjuster, and Nellie Revell, press representative. Thing are moving around the winter quarters in Kansas City, Mo. The Schiller brothers recently purchased eighteen head of horses, a number of ponies, a lion and an elephant, called Jumbo. The elephant has been trained for the ring. Sixteen cars will carry the show, says the correspondent. Billboard, March 24, 1906, p. 20.
The Cook & Barrett circus and menagerie that showed in Oelwein yesterday afternoon and evening is having all sorts of trouble. Schiller Bros. are the reputed proprietors, and it seems they have not been getting a generous share of the velvet this season. Wm. P. Hall, from Missouri, claims to have a chattel mortgage on the show for something like $16,000, secured by notes of $220, one to be paid each week, in default of which he was to take possession without legal process. This he claims to have done at New Hampton Monday. The Schiller Bros. deny, and the battle is on. Yesterday the Schiller Bros. had Hall and two others arrested for monkeying with the ticket wagon, and the case came before Judge Elliott. The prosecuting witnesses did not appear. The affairs of the show are in a bad legal muddle, and the aggregation did not leave the city this morning, although they will attempt to do so this afternoon, with Schiller Bros. in charge. It is said that Hall and his friends will endeavor to stop the move by injunction. A number of the performers have quit, tis said, in consequence of not seeing nay long green for two weeks. Oelwein Register (Oelwein, IA), May 16, 1906, p. 2.
Oelwein, May 17. The Cook & Barrett circus, after a short season of tribulations, due principally to financial embarassment, which had been here for two days, was able to get away a 4 o'clock yesterday aftern, leaving for Hannibal, Mo., the winter quarters, where the aggregation will take a new start after the legal entanglements are straightened out. An injunction was gotten out by Hall, but is proved to have been issued against the wrong parties and was dissolved. Semi Weekly Waterloo Courier (Waterloo, IA), May 18, 1906, p. 1.
Des Moines, Ia., June 8. The Great Cooke & Barrett Circus stranded at Allison, Ia., May 17. The show had been playing to poor business for three or four weeks in Northern Iowa. Many of the performers and workingmen had not received wages and decided to leave. William P. Hall, the horseman, is a stockholder, and no doubt Hall assist the organization, which was shipped directly to Mr. Hall's home at Lancaster, Mo. The Cooke & Barrett show was the remains of what was known as the Famous W. H. Harris Nickel Plate Show and consisted of sixteen cars. Variety, June 9, 1906, p. 9.
Col. Billy Hall has made a bonafide cash sale of the Cook & Barrett Show, which was managed by the Schiller Brothers, and which was recently mortgaged. Col. Weaver and Mr. Cannon, of New Orleans, La., and Doc Gun, of Quincy, Ill., were the purchasers. The show will leave Lancaster, Mo., July 21. Billboard, July 14, 1906, p. 24.
Robert & Richard Schiller, owners 1905-06; R. F. Schiller, John Schiller, Dick Schiller, owners, 1905-06; Schiller Bros., owners, 1906; W. P. Hall, owner, 1906; Weaver, Cannon & Gun, owner, 1906; W. P. Hall, owner, 1907. Bandwagon, Nov-Dec, 1966, p. 6; Jan-Feb, 1962, p. 7.
Schiller brothers leased Harris Nickel Plate equipment from W. P. Hall and took it out in 1905-06 as Cook & Barrett. Bannerline, April 15, 1954, p. 7.
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Cook & Cole - 1927 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1927
Fairmont, Minn., June 7. Fairmont citizens, stirred by the wails of hungry animals and workmen, have responded to the stranded circus troupe here to the extent of approximately $1,200 at two benefit performances. The chief beneficiaries of the show are the wild animals and getting the "broke" performers and workmen back to their homes, about 100 workmen are attached to the show. When the Crook & Cole circus went "broke" here last week, most of the performers whose pay checks had not been forthcoming, since the show started out on its ill-fated trek from Omaha, wired to friends or relatives for funds. The majority of the workmen had no such financial relief to fall back on. L. F. Crook, manager of the show, and one of its owners, said that most of the equipment would be stored at Fairmont until the tangled affairs of the enterprise can be unraveled. Binghampton Press (Binghampton, NY), June 7, 1927, p. 2.
• An article on the 1927 Cook & Cole 3-Ring Circus, Leo E. Crook, R. M. Harvey and Arthur Hoffman, owners, is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 2, pp. 4-16.
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Cook & Whitby - 1892-94 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1892-94
1892:
Wanted, first class musicians, to fill up my concert band traveling for the past seven years with the Great Wallace Circus, and re-engaged for the coming season. 2 bassoons, 1 more slide trombone, 1 sololette, 1 double B-flat bass, 2 more clarionets. Wm. F. Goetze, bandmaster, Wallace Circus, Lawrenceburg, Ind. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 806.
Holland's Big Wagon Show is about ready to open the campaign, and will tour Colorado early in the season, its purpose being to exhibit in the mountain towns ahead of Cook and Whitby's and the Ringling Bros., both of which have already contracted for that section of the country. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
Cook & Wheatley [sic] is the name under which the Wallace Show is announced for the coming season. New York Clipper, April 9, 1892, p. 66.
Pueblo, Colorado. Right in the wake of the Raymond Show, which comes 9(?), the Cook & Whitby Circus is billed for 13(?). New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 151.
Denver, Colorado. At River Front Park . . . Cook & Whitby's Circus and Menagerie. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
Pueblo, Colorado. Raymond's Circus showed to excellent business. Cook & Whitby's Circus is due __. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
On the road, circuses: Cook & Whitby, Pueblo, Col. May 18, Colorado Springs, 19, Denver 20, 21. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 167.
On the road, circuses: Cook & Whitby, Fremont, Neb. June 3. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
Notes from the World's Fair Aggregation. . . . Ringling Bros., F. J. Taylor, Cook & Whitby and Lemen Bros. have been moving us around some . . . We remain in Kansas six weeks. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 244.
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Ryder were suddently called away from the Cook & Whitby Shows . . . Mrs. Ryder's father . . . passed away at his home at Louisville, Ky. . . . New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
Cook & Whitby's Circus train of twenty-two cas was wrecked six miles below McGregor, Ia., July _. . . . Thirty horses were killed. One car contained fourteen horses and fifteen colored musicians. Every horse was killed outright, but every man escaped except two, one of whom was injured, perhaps fatally, the other slightly. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
Cook & Whitby's English and American Circus have had two smashups. The first was at Richland Centre, Wis., July 7, when several cars were detached, and on the following morning at ___ McGill(?) Bridge, Ia., the train ran off the track, again ditching three cars of stock and killing twenty-five horses and injuring two so that they had to be shot. Two men were hurt, one being the circassian prince. The train was running at twenty miles an hour, and the accident was caused by the rails spreading. The show was unable to exhibit at Prairie Du Chien, Wis., and Maquoketa, Ia. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
Wanted at once, for Cook & Whitby's Circus, bicycle act and sensational acts of all kinds for circus and concert. Long season. Address B. E. Wallace, Grayville, Ill., July 22, Olney 23, Newton 25, Mattoon 26. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 320.
Hugh C. Whiting and wife, and Little Pansy have severed their connection with the Cook & Whitby's Circus and are resting at their home, Chicago, for a few weeks. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
[Ad] The Sisters Onri, Adele Purvis Ouri, Rosa Lee Onri, double juggling on revolving globes. Adele on the swinging slack wire. Rosa, lady tumble. Now with Wallace & Co. Show, at liberty on or about Oct 15. Sisters Onri, care of Clipper. New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 416.
Dubuque, Iowa, July 8. Special Telegram. Cook and Whitby's circus train of twenty-two cars, en route from Prairie du Chien, Wis., to Maquoketa, Iowa, was passing Sny Magill, six miles below McGregor, at 2:45 o'clock, this morning, when a defective axle caused the forward truck of the first car to break. Five cars were ditched and thirty horses killed. In a car with fourteen horses were a band of colored musicians. Every horse in the car was killed outright, but all the negroes escaped except two, one of whom was hurt dangerously, the other not seriously. The loss falls upon the circus managers, as the train was running not faster than ten miles an hour and on a straight track. It will ruin the circus, and the manager, realizing this, rushed about the wreck with tears in his eyes, shouting "Just think of it! My fourteen best horses killed and every one of these darkies saved." Jackson Sentinel (Maquoketa, IA), July 14, 1892, p. 1.
• Information on the 1892 Cook & Whitby show (Ben Wallace, owner) is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 1, pp. 50-54.
1893:
. . . Cook & Whitby Show. Good business is reported through Kansas. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
On the road, circuses: Cook & Whitbey's [sic] Des Moines, IA June 7, Council Bluffs 9. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
Des Moines, Iowa. Cook & Whitby Circus came to packed tents 7(?). New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
On the road, circuses: Cook & Whitby's, Cheyene, Wyo. June 21(?). New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 248.
Leadville, Colorado. Cook & Whitby's Circus is billed for July 6(?). New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 251.
Council Bluffs, Iowa. Cook & Whitby's Circus drew large crowds June 9(?). Wm. Cobb, a veteran showman, has been engaged as press agent for this show. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 251.
St. Louis, Missouri. J. M.(?) Hamilton, contracting agent for Cook & Whitby's Circus, now in Nebraska, was here last week. New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 264.
Cheyenne, Wyoming. Cook & Whitby's Circus did an immense business 31(?). New York Clipper, July 1, 1893, p. 267.
On the road, circuses: Cook & Whitby's, Glenwood Springs Col. July 5, Leadville 6 . . . Trinidad 10, Pueblo 11, Colorado Springs 12, Denver 13-15. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
On the road, circuses: Cook & Whitby's, Colorado Springs Col. July 12, Denver 13-15 . New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
Denver, Colorado. Cook & Whitby's show will be at River Front Park, 13, 14, 15. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 299.
Pueblo, Colorado. Whitby & Cook's Circus is billed for 11. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 299.
Denver, Colorado. Cook & Whitby's Circus will hold forth 13, 14, 15. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 313.
The Black Hussar Band and Jubilee Singers are now engaged with Cook & Whitby's English and American Circus. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
Pueblo, Colorado. Cook & Whitby's Circus, which showed here 11, received scanty patronage. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 331.
Prof. and Mme. G. M. Castroni closed with the Cook & Whitby Circus at Denver, Col., July 1?. New York Clipper, August 5, 1893, p. 346.
Wheeling, West Virginia. After the afternoon performance of Cook & Whitby's Circus at Martins Ferry, O., ?. Wm. Wilson(?), ticket seller for the show, got into a dispute with several half grown boys, near the circus train, and finding himself outnumbered drew a revolver. Policeman Murphy attempted to arrest Wilson, when the latter shot the policeman, the ball entering the left side just below the heart, inflicting what proved to be a fatal wound. Wilson was arrested and placed in jail, but as there was talk of lynching, he was later removed to St. Clairsville, O., the county seat. Excitement ran high and all kinds of threats were made against the show's people. Acting upon the advice of the mayor, the circus people pulled stakes and left at eight o'clock for East Liverpool where they were booked the next day. The policeman died 4(?). New York Clipper, September 9, 1893, p. 429.
Steubenville, Ohio. Cook & Whitby's Circus came Aug. 31, pleasing large houses. Willie Halla(?) made a successful balloon ascension and parachute jumbp, alighting a half mile from the tents. New York Clipper, September 9, 1893, p. 431.
St. Louis, Missouri. J. ?. Hamilton, manager of Cook & Whitby's Circus, has been at the St. James for a week. New York Clipper, September 16, 1893, p. 445.
• Information on the 1893 Cook & Whitby show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 6, pp. 64-70.
1894: On the road, circuses: Cook & Whitby's, Dubuque IA May 1? . New York Clipper, May 19, 1894, p. 162.
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Cook & Wilson - 1916
• Show listed in Sturtevant's List of Circuses, 1916, D. Clinton Cook, Harry G. Wilson, owners.
1915: Trenton, New Jersey, Oct. 2. Cook & Wilson's Greatest Wild Animal Circus on Earth, with a capital of $50,000, has been incorporated with the Secretary of State. D. Clinton Cook, of this city, and H. G. Wilson, now showing animals in the West, are the incorporators. The home of the show is in this city, and at Mr. Cook's stables on Fair Street, are many horses, bears, ponies and other animals, together with the necessary wagons to put the show on the road. The first performance will be given in this city about the latter part of next April or May. Mr. Cook has received a carload of Navajo Indian ponies from New Mexico for the Wild West numbers given in connection with the show. Shetland ponies, high school horses, five bears, one of which will ride a horse in the ring, and two Siberian and three American bears; 25 show wagons and 100 head of baggage horses, 200 head of ponies. A train of twenty cars will be necessary to transport the show. One of the special attractions will be a lion making an ascension in a balloon. As soon as Mr. Wilson completes his season's engagements in the West, he will have all his animals transported to this city. The old Watson foundry building has been leased for training quarters. Geo. H. Degnon, for many years with Barnum & Bailey, Buffalo Bill and 101 Ranch, will be general agent. Billboard, October 9, 1915, p. 59.
1916:
Cook & Wilson Wild Animal Circus. D. Clinton Cook & H. G. Wilson, proprietors; H. G. Wilson, manager; George Degnon, general agent & railroad contractor; Thomas Aiton, local contractor; Jack Pratt, contracting press agent; Bobby Fountain, manager sideshow; Frank Miller, equestrian director; Peter Malally, general supt.; John Reiman, supt. privileges; Al J. Massey, musical director; O. J. Kretzer, supt. canvas; Norman H. Winner, trainmaster; Eli Fournier, boss hostler; Jack Williams, supt. commissary dept.; Chas. Aldrich, supt. ring stock; Eli Fournier, supt. stock; Ed Holland, twenty-four hour agent; Herman Schultz, supt. elephants; Tom Wilmoth, supt. animals; Harry Kelly, blacksmith; Sam Dawson, manager advance car No. 1; fifteen cars. Show opens at Trenton, New Jersey, April 26. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
The Cook & Wilson Wild Animal Circus is a two-ring and combination arena-ring-stage outfit, with a hippodrome for track events. Frank B. Miller is equestrian director, who also, with members of his family, figures largely in the riding events. The season was ushered in by a street parade in the morning. The show consists of a 110-foot round top, with three 40s. The midway is under the supervision of Bobby Fountain, with novelties and freaks, and a collection of trained ponies, etc. The first performance was ushered in by Miss Miller, singing a rag number, Circus Day in Dixie, seated on a horse. Musical numbers were under the direction of Al Massey, bandmaster, who was with Hagenbeck-Wallace for five years. Acts with the show are the Aerial Fausts, Fowler and Shubert, comedy ring performers; Banzai Japs, Oriental jugglers and balancers; Lock and Key, comedy acrobats, and the numerous turns by the Cook & Wilson wild animals. Billboard, May 6, 1916, p. 71.
• The show closed with heavy losses in August. Bandwagon, May-June, 1968, p. 23.
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Cook Bros. - 1917-19, 1920, 1930 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1921
1917: Cook Bros.’ World’s Greatest Shows - Cook Bros.’ World’s Greatest Shows, Inc., props.; D. Clinton Cook, mgr.; Bobby Fountain, asst. mgr., mgr. side-show and legal adjuster; Edw. Dare, treas.; F. J. Frank, gen. agt.; W. H. Selvage, local contractor; Mr. Wallet, equestrian dir.; R. L. Piper, supt. privileges; Morris Murphy, supt. reserved seat tickets; Chas. McNay, supt. canvas; Chas. Williams, trainmaster; Frank Rooney, boss hostler; H. L. Kelly, supt. commissary dept.; John McNeil, supt. lights; Col. Magill, supt. ring stock; E. G. Holland, 24-hour agt.; George Case, supt. elephants; Ed Hopkins, boss carpenter; C. M. Beach, mgr. adv. car no. 1; Harry Price, checker-up. Fifteen cars. Show opens at Lambertville, N. J. On April 21. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
• 1917: A ten car show put out by D. Clinton Cook closed a failure at Dyersville, Iowa, August 17, 1917. Bandwagon, May-June, 1968, p. 23.
1918:
Winter quarters. Cook Bros.' Shows, D. Clinton Cook, manager; 25 Fair st., Trenton, N.J. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
1919:
Newark, N.J., Jan. 4. Cook Bros. Shows will again take the road for the season of 1919 as a wagon show. Billboard, January 11, 1919, p. 54.
Trenton, N.J., Jan. 11. Cook Bros. Overland Circus and Wild West will take the road early in April. The show will have two auto trucks in advance, with a line of special paper. George Barton, of Wild West fame, will be the arena director. The winter quarters are now open in Trenton. The attraction will equal a ten-car outfit and will put out a parade that will include six cages, band and tableau wagons, calliope and miniature features. Billboard, January 18, 1919, p. 60.
Trenton, N.J., Feb. 15. The winter quarters of Cook Bros. Circus and Wild West Show in this city is a scene of much activity. A large force of men are at work repairing and painting wagons and getting things in shape. The advance cars are ready to take the road, stacked full of paper. Eight baggage wagons are ready, loaded with paraphernalia. The animal cages are receiving their last coat of paint. Brent Blair and three cowboys are at the winter barn, breaking in the car load of British Government horses just purchased by the management, for Wild West work. Frank Rooney will have charge of all the baggage horses and get the outfit over the road. Parker Anderson is getting his pony act into shape, 20 in number. May Barton and Harriet Blair are exercising the high school horses daily. I. Silverberg has rented the candy privileges and was over recently getting his auto into shape. George Barton is hustling in all departments, while Messrs. Cook Bros. keep an eye on all operations. Billboard, February 22, 1919, p. 30.
Cook Bros. Overland Circus and Wild West Shows - Call. All people engaged for coming season report to Trenton, N.J., April 21, 1919. Performer, George Barton. Drivers, Frank Rooney. Canvasmen, Doc Christman. Side canvasman, William Witt. Cookhouse, Dave Chadwick. Wanted, comedy acts for big show, real cowboys and cowgirls that ride. The largest Wild West show out this season. Want sideshow people all departments, dancers, talkers, freaks, snake enchantress, Punch. Cook Bros. Overland Circus & Wild West Shows, Trenton, New Jersey. [Advertisement] Billboard, April 12, 1919, p. 13.
Sam Freed joined the Cook Bros. Circus a few weeks ago at Johnsville, N.Y. Many oldtimers are with the show. George and May Barton are there, and George is equestrian director. Mabel Kenjockety and mother are also with it. Billboard, August 30, 1919.
Cook Bros. World's Greatest Shows have just left the State of New York and are now in Jersey enroute South. "Governor" Cook plans to keep the aggregation out all winter. Sam Freed has returned from New York with a twelve piece colored band. A. S. Conlon has the sideshow annex, with Whitey Jones as assistant and inside man. Capt. Jack, tattooed man, has come on, and he and Princess Zalla, of oriental fame, are in the annex. Mr. Conlon has been with the Ringling show for years. Al McLeod, wife and son, arrived August 28 and are appearing in the Wild West, making twelve people in that department. May Barton is working the ponies and doing fine. Steve L. Loyd and wife, late of the Greater Sheesley Shows, have joined with their four Arabian horses doing a liberty act. George Barton is equestrian director. Dash Barton is treasurer. Mabel Kenjockety does her menage act. The Edwards offer an aerial sensation. Clown alley is larger, four more joeys joining at Goshen, N.Y. Maurice Fisher, pitchman, has the candy stands with three butchers. Other features with the show are Miller and Root(?), rifle shots; Frank Smith, trick and fancy roper, formerly of the Barnum Show, who mades a six horse catch, and G. R. Guyman and his band. Frank Rooney is boss hostler. This is Roland Hebler's first season with a circus. "Governor" Cook just ordered a $500 una-fon. - Sam. Billboard, September 6, 1919, p. 86.
• More on Cook Bros. show, 1919, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
1920:
Cook Bros.' World's Greatest Shows: D. Clinton Cook, manager; Jess Bullock, treasurer; Vic J. Foster, general agent; A. S. Conlon, manager side show; Art Eldridge, equestrian director and supt. elephants; Morris Fischer, supt. privileges; Harry Heilman, musical director; Wm. Witt, supt. canvas; Frank Lloyd, boss hostler; Dell Adams, supt. commissary dept.; Bill Wallace, supt. ring stock; Pat Cuff(?), supt. animals; R. M. Jones; legal adjuster; 37 cars. Opens at Trenton, N.J., April 15. Billboard, March 20, 1920, p. 109.
• A Cook Bros. Circus was touring in 1930. Bandwagon, March-April, 1983, p. 8.
• Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Dan Cook's - 1891
Wanted, for Dan Cook's Circus, musicians and performers, people that can double and do two or more good turns. Address Dan Cook, Brown's Valley, Minn. New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 324.
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J. W. Cook's - 1895
J. W. Cook's has already engaged the Barlington band for the big show and the Ottumwa, Iowa band for the sideshow; four clowns; Amando, single traps juggling act and his performing giraffe; Emile Gerber, contortionist; Robert and Mary Hughes, Young Thompson and W. M. Sullivan . . . and others. Dow Thompson is head cook with three assistants; Jack Anderson, boss canvas man . . . They open in May. New York Clipper, April 13, 1895, p. 83.
Happenings with the Cook Shows. J. W. Cook's Big Shows opened at the winter quarters in Bethany, Missouri. Roster: J. W. Cook, sole owner; W. Sullivan, manager; Allie Williams, canvas boss . . . Dow Thompson, cook with four assistants; the Irvings, aerial feats; Emery and Russell, triple bars and rings; Rosie Bell, wire and globe; Ah Wee, Jap and musical performer; Gussie Elmore, Spanish rings; W. Sullivan, leading clown, with four assistans . . . New York Clipper, June 8, 1895, p. 212.
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Cooke's Royal Circus - 1860 Show is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses for 1860
[Advertisement] Cooke's Royal Circus. This unequaled European troupe, comprising all the great talent in the equestrian profession, will exhibit their splendid, novel and exciting feats of horsemanship and athletic skill at Cedar Falls, on Saturday, July 21st, 1860, and at Waterloo, Thursday, July 19th. A grand mid-day performance, commencing at 2 o'clock p.m. and in the evening at 7 1/2 o'clock. Admission 50 cts. Children 25 cts.
[Advertisement] Cooke's Royal Circus. Niblo's Garden, New York, Astley's Royal Amphitheatre, London, in combination with Old Grizzly Adams' California Menagerie. Will be at Newport, Monday, Aug. 13; open at 2 and 7 p.m.; tickets 25 cents. Overwhelming combination. Fresh in the field. All grand, all novel. Cooke's Royal Circus - Old Grizzly Adams' Wonderful Grizzly Bear Garden. James M. Nixon & P. T. Barnum.
• 1860: online at Clipper, January 28, Clipper, June 23, Clipper, July 7, Clipper, August 4, Clipper, September 1 (scroll down)
• Information on Cooke's Royal Circus, during the Civil War, is in Slout's Clowns and Cannons.
• An article on the 1860 Cooke's Royal Circus with Grizzly Adams' Bear Menagerie is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 1, pp. 32-37.
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James E. Cooke's - 1868
• 1868: online at:
James E. Cooke's - 1880, 1882
1880:
Concert privilege for sale, or will enter into partnership. James E. Cooke, Cooke's Circus, Newtown, L. I. [Long Island, New York] New York Clipper, April 24, 1880, p. 39.
James E. Cooke's Royal Circus, which includes Mme. Carlotta De Berg, Blanche Nelson, Mlle Victoria, Miss Howard, James E. Cooke, Arthur Nelson, Master Albert Nelson, Horace Nichols, Matt Greene, Prof. Howard . . . Cady Howes, Lee Powell, is to commence its season in Newtown, L.I., May 3; thence to Hempstead 4, 5, Port Washington 6, Roslyn 7. New York Clipper, May 8, 1880, p. 51.
1882:
Notice to all branches of the circus profession, riders, clowns, acrobats, concert people, etc.
Outside privileges to let. J. E. Cooke's Circus, Newtown, Long Island, N.Y. New York Clipper, April 15, 1882, p. 66.
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James R. Cooke's - 1864
• 1864: online at Clipper, December 31 (scroll down)
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Coop & Lent's - 1916-19 Show is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses for 1909, 1916-1918
1916: Coup & Lent Show. W. T. Hanright, manager; L. J. Stark, asst. manager; Frank Kansk, treasurer; Frank A. Mosby, secretary; Jas. Hamilton, auditor; Frank C. Cooper, general agent & railroad contractor; Jas. Colby, local contractor; Bud Proctor and Walter Clifford, special agents; T. G. Davis, contracting press agent; E. F. Lampman, advance press agent; Jas. E. Allen, press agent back with show; Robt. Meredith, excursion agent; Cal Towers, manager sideshow; Orrin Hollis, equestrian director; Art Eldridge, general supt.; R. H. Embree, supt. privileges; H. W. Wingert, musical director; Geo. Artingstall, supt. reserved seat tickets; Geo. Williams, 24-hour agent; Burt Andres, manager advance car No. 1; Jas. Burns, manager advance car No. 2; Arthur Ward, checker-up; twenty-four cars. Show opens at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, April 26. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
1917: Coop & Lent’s Circus - Dixon Amusement Co., props.; J. H. Adkins, mgr.; O. L. Hoffman, treas.; Lon B. Williams, gen. agt.; Dave Jarrett [Jarreit?], local contractor; Jerry Kellar, special agt.; Edw. C. Fuller, press agt. back with show; W. H. McFarland, mgr. side-show and announcer; Frank T. S. John, equestrian dir.; Melvin P. Bur?is, supt. privileges; Oscar Duenweg, musical dir.; S. F. Harris, supt. reserved seat tickets; George Wombold, supt. canvas; Edgar Peyton, trainmaster; Jack Kent, boss hostler; Louis Emery, supt. commissary dept.; Curtis Rueckert, supt. lights; Walter Bechtel, 24-hour agt.; Harry Clausman, supt. elephants; Ralph Hinman, supt. animals; Jake Emerson, blacksmith; Bert Andrus, mgr. adv. car No. 1; L. B. Greenhaw, checker-up; James J. Brown, legal adjuster. Twenty cars. Show opens at Dixon, Ill., on April 25. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
• L. J. Stark and others put out this show in 1916. It failed on August 28. Stark again put the show out in 1917. It failed on July 7, 1917 and was purchased by Melville B. Raymond and syndicate, but it lived only three days, closing at Connellsville, Pennsylvania, July 17, 1917. Bandwagon, March-April, 1968, p. 22.
1918: (E. P. and L. S. Horne, owners)
Winter quarters. Coop & Lent Shows, E. P. & I. S. Horne, proprietors; Independence, Mo.; office Keith & Perry Bldg., Kansas City, Mo. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
Kenneth R. Waite, clown, writes from Kansas City, Mo., that he got forty-nine per cent from the Coop & Lent Circus for salary due. "All people holding claims can get their money by writing for it," he continues. Billboard, January 19, 1918, p. 29.
The Coop & Lent Shows are being held intact at Independence, Mo., by E. P. and L. S. Horne, the owners. All equipment has been repaired and put in shape for the road. Up to the present time it has not been decided by the owners whether to put the show out before the 1919 season or not. The ring stock on the Horne farm at Independence is being worked daily, including all ponies (drill teams). The menagerie animals are in exceptional condition. Many new ones have been received, including several clouded leopards. A new lion act has been completed by Senior Landes [Landez?], the Brazilian trainer, and a new boxing kangaroo broken by Prof. Daugherty. Billboard, March 9, 1918, p. 41.
Chicago, April 1. A hitch arose today is holding up the plans of the newly organized American Circus Corporation, which has capital stock of $100,000, fully paid in, to put out the Coop & Lent Circus on motor trucks. It is understood the corporation, which was formed by R. M. Harvey, president of the National Outdoor Showmen's Association, for years connected with the Barnum & Bailey and Hagenbeck-Wallace Shows, and J. S. Horne and father, of the Horne Zoological Arena Company, of Kansas City, has placed orders for specially constructed trucks and bodies, and it is the inability of the manufacturers of guarantee delivery of the bodies which is temporarily holding up the plans. If the manufacturer can deliver the bodies Mr. Harvey and his associates will go ahead with their plans, which call for a three-ring circus, the equivalent of a twenty-five car railroad show. The intention is to open the show about May 5 at a point near Chicago, and to play a route which includes a number of good circus towns which this season not be available to railroad shows. Mr. Harvey is to be general manager, with H. S. Rowe as business manager. The order placed for trucks includes sleepers, dining car, horse and elephant cars, as well as special size trucks to handle the baggage and equipment. Late last fall there were reports that Harvey and the Hornes would put out the Coop & Lent Circus for 1918, but when the railroad situation became dubious the idea had been abandonded. The Coop & Lent Circus was put out in 1916 by Cedar Rapids, Ia. parties, and closed at Oak Park, Ill. During the 1917 season the show closed early in July at Connellsville, Pa., and was purchased by the Horne's at a receiver's sale. Billboard, April 6, 1918, p. 3.
The Coop & Lent Circus will take the road this year, opening early in May near Chicago. Horne's Zoological Arena Company of Kansas City, Mo., is supplying the trained and menagerie animals and the best of the old Coop & Lent paraphernalia which they bought last season. Both I. S. Horne and father are enthused as to the prospects of the circus as now conceived. H. S. Rowe has been signed as business manager. Ed C. Warner has been booked as general agent and director of the arena. R. M. Harvey is already planning for the 1919 season. The office of the show will be at the Tribune Building, Chicago. Billboard, April 13, 1918, p. 28.
Coop & Lent Circus. Ten flat cars loaded with circus equipment left the Zoological Gardens of the Horne Arena Company, Kansas City, last Thursday for Peru, Ind. where the twenty-two bodies are to be transferred to the chassis of the trucks. The oldtime sideshow will be supplanted by two pit shows. Bernie Wallace, of Peru, Ind., will be treasurer of the circus. Prof. C. Z. Bronson, of Kalamazoo, Mich., will be musical director. Present indications are that the show will open on the date originally planned. The circus program is practically filled. Billboard, May 4, 1918, p. 61.
Chicago, May 5. Work on the Coop & Lent Motorized Circus is practically completed. Everything will be ready for the opening at Kensington, May 25. Ted Metz's pit show will be with the Coop & Lent Circus. Billboard, May 11, 1918, pp. 45, 68.
Frank M. Swan has signed as twenty-four hour man with Coop & Lent's Circus for the summer season. W. E. Haines has been appointed contracting agent for the Coop & Lent Circus to replace George Robinson, who was called by the Government to take charge of the Government fireworks displays. Other additions to the staff are: Bert R. Hall, in charge of the advertising cars; Ed R. Stanley, general press agent, and Ben Walsh and Fred Swan, twenty-four hour men. Billboard, May 18, 1918, pp. 27, 63.
Route, Coop & Lent Circus: Kensington, Ill., 25; Gary, Ind., 26-27; Valparaiso 28. Billboard, May 25, 1918, p. 87.
Bert Chipman, who has been managing the Oliver Opera House at Lincoln, Neb., resigned to accept an offer from the Coop & Lent Circus. Billboard, June 1, 1918, p. 27.
Ray Thompson, equestrian director with Coop & Lent's Circus, was notifited by the Government that he was needed, and has left for Camp Sheldon, Miss., where he will work for an officer's commission. Mr. Thompson will offer his knowledge of horses and riding in training officers for the cavalry. He leaves his wife and two-year old baby with the show, and John Miller will take care of his horses and will assume charge of the arena. Leon Foster, female impersonator, who recently joined the Coop & Lent Circus with the Kafka and Stanley iron jaw act, is in Chicago, suffering from a fractured rib. He will rejoin the act as soon as recovered. Billboard, June 8, 1918, pp. 26, 65.
South Bend, Ind., June 8. The Coop & Lent Motorized Circus had serious difficulties the first week of its tour. It opened in Kensington, Ill., May 25, and with the assistance of interurban lines reached Gary, Ind., for its next stand the 27th. The move to Valparaiso, 28th, was made with hired trucks. The lot here was in bad condition, and a day was lost getting to Laporte, where it showed the 30th, the date billed for South Bend. In South Bend on Memorial Day, the city refused to issue a permit to parade, stating it would interfere with memorial church services. It made the 25-mile run from Laporte to South Bend over the Lincoln Highway, but arrived too late to make a parade on the 31st. Lack of sufficient help delayed getting the tents up, and although hundreds of small boys were pressed into service, no afternoon show was given. The night performance drew well. No seats were installed along one entire side of the four-pole big top. Some of the trucks and trailers were badly over-loaded, and others had to make a second trip to Laporte to bring all the stuff. The interurban was used again in getting to Goshen, most of the heavy seat planks and stringers being conveyed by trolley. A bad stretch of road between South Bend and Elkhart caused further delays, and Goshen was not reached in time for an afternoon shows. It was billed for Warsaw June 1, but this date was canceled in order to make Wabash, its next date and the home of the service truck it is using. Here it expects to secure more equipment and avoid futher overload. Ray Thompson, equestrian director, left the show at Valapraiso to enlist in military service. - W. W. Dunkle. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 26.
The Coop & Lent Show is moving along with twenty-seven auto trucks, with trailers, each sleeping twenty people. These are fitted up the same as Pullman sleepers. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 28.
Robert Eastman closed with the World at Home Shows and is joining the Coop & Lent Circus. He stopped over in Cincinnati to visit his wife and baby before joining the circus. Mrs. Eastman was formerly Irene Kober, who is now residing with her mother in the Queen City and will not travel this season. They were formerly members of the Three Kobers. Billboard, June 22, 1918, p. 27.
Coop & Lent's Motorized Circus. R. M. Harvey, general manager; Frank M. Swan, 24-hour man; Ed C. Warner, general agent; J. W. Petterson, general superintendent; Bert Chipman, legal adjuster, press agent, announcer in big show. Frank Miller, equestrian and trainer, permanent address Wright City, Mo. The Renos, aerial artists; Marguerite and Hanley, gymnasts; Tun Chin Troupe, Chinese novelty act, S. S. Yee, manager; Fred Manske, contortionist; Will Delavoye, principal clown; Batsford and Chappelle, skatorial artists; Harry La Reno, combination aerial novelty contortion; The Delroys, society jugglers. Wassan's troupe of Arabs, tumbling acrobats and pyramid builders, owner and manager, H. B. Liazeed. Rhoday Royal's horse and elephant acts presented by Don Darragh, Fred Collier, John Hickey, Ola Donavan and Irene Montgomery, principal rider. The Australian Waites, Billy and Marion, stock whip crackers, use over 75 whips, in size from 12 to 78 feet, cutting the ash from a cigarette, opening a bottle of pop, hitting the trigger of a revolver and discharging it are among the feats. C. Z. Bronson and his All American Band and the Bronsonian groupings of living statues. [Advertisement] Billboard, June 22, 1918, pp. 64, 65.
Dr. Bushnell closed with the Coop & Lent Show at Lawrenceburg, Ky., to go back home on the Tom Allen Shows. Billboard, June 29, 1918, p. 27.
Route, Coop & Lent: Lexington, Ky., 26; Georgetown 27; Cynthiana 28; Falmouth 29. Billboard, June 29, 1918, p. 79.
The first completely motorized circus in the world has had a terrible test the last two weeks in Ohio. It seems that the Coop & Lent Circus was overloading its trucks, that these heavy loads with the dead weight of huge trailers behind them was too much for the truck engines, and consequently the show has not been moving with any regularity the last few days. Not much truck trouble was encountered early in the season, even in the mountains of Kentucky and the hills of Southern Ohio, the caravan wended its way with punctuality over its route and did a nice business. However the last two weeks the strain on the overloaded trucks began to tell and at Zanesville, O., it was necessary to lay the show off five days while the trucks were being repaired, the decision made after the show was only able to give five performances the preceding week. After leaving Zanesville, the show encountered unusually severe roads and again on account of the overloading, several of the trucks went to the bad, forcing the show to get into town behind its paper and too late to give a matinee. From R. M. Harvey, manager of the show . . . "The present is an opportune time to lay off the show to re-frame and re-organize it, since several of our acts were scheduled to go over to fairs and we wished to investigate some special territory. Last Friday morning, at Dover, O., our people were informed that the show was closed, and were invited to remain with the new organization. On account of delinquent salaries not being paid immediately, some of the working people and some of the performers almost caused a riot when the Service Company attempted to move their trucks from the lot for rebuilding. It is very probable that the re-organized motor show will be known as "The Wallace Show," and that it will tour Eastern Tennessee, Eastern Kentucky, West Virginia and the Carolinas and remain out until the first of the year. Not a trailer will be kept with the show, the trucks having nothing but their own load, the people being slept in hotels, but fed on the lots. It will continue as a two-ring circus and play territory mentioned exclusively, since it is probably that the railroad shows will not be able to tour that section. Billboard, August 17, 1918, pp. 3, 58.
R. M. Harvey, general manager of the Coop & Lent Motorized Circus, announced that the plan to reorganize the show and continue the tour, which had terminated two weeks ago at Canal Dover, O., had been reconsidered and the project abandoned and the show paraphernalia would be shipped back to winter quarters. Following the suspension of operations, Messrs. Harvey and Horne, principal stockholders in the American Circus Corporation, the owners, immediately busied themselves in the effort to get things going, but it was found that the cost of financing the venture would be too great. A further difficulty was the securing of proper working forces, many former employees having left the show during the layoff. The Coop & Lent Circus was the first completely motorized circus of any considerable size to take the road, being the equivalent of a twenty-car show. This was the third circus to use the Coop & Lent title, all three shows closing in mid-season. Mr. Harvey met with success the past season with the Lowery Greater Mistrels, and will shortly take out a similar organization, using the title Harvey's Greater Minstrels, carrying thirty people, opening about September 18 at Perry, Ia. Billboard, August 24, 1918, pp. 3, 61.
In the August 17 issue the story about the Coop & Lent Show stated that this aggregation was the first show to travel by motor. This is an error. What should have been said was that the Coop & Lent outfit was the first large circus to move entirely by motor. As far as the Billboard has been able to learn, J. C. O'Brien's Famous Georgia Minstrels was the first show of any description to successfully travel by motor trucks and trailers. Billboard, August 31, 1918, p. 27.
Ed C. Warner some time ago resigned his position as general agent with the Coop & Lent Circus to act as traffic manager for the World at Home Shows. Billboard, August 31, 1918, p. 27.
Bert Chipman, who was with the Coop & Lent Circus early in the season, as press agent, legal adjuster, etc., is now head of the press and publicity department of the Acme Amusement Co., of Lincoln, Neb., which controls four theaters in that city. Billboard, September 21, 1918, p. 23.
Also see Horne's Wild Animal and the Coop & Lent Shows, 1918.
1919: (A. R. Lavoie, Canadian)
Coop & Lent's Enormous Motorized Shows. Wanted for seasson 1919, people in all branches of the circus business. Performers doing two or more acts, aerial acts, gymnasts, comedy bar acts, dog, pony and monkey acts, bucking mule, producing clowns, riders with their own stock. Bosses and workingmen in all departments, stewards, cooks and waiters. General agent, billposters, programmers and bannermen. Those understanding Ford cars given preference. Side show people, freaks, curiosities, musical acts, oriental dancers and musicians, colored band and leader. For sale, privileges, candy stands, whips, balloons. Address Art Eldridge, general manager, Montreal, Canada. [Advertisment] Billboard, April 12, 1919, p. 31.
Al Root, of the Coop & Lent Circus, who has been in New York contracting talent, left last week for the show with several acts. The management was undecided at that time as to whether the show would start at once to play the New England States, or make a few stands on Long Island. Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 45.
It is reported that the Coop & Lent Show has hit the rocks in Vermont, and that the animals, equipment, etc., will be sold at public auction on the St. Johnsbury (Vt.) State Fair Grounds, August 22, to satisfy creditors. When the show reached St. Johnsbury, it is said that an attachment for $2,000 was placed on the show's finances and all equipment by Attorney Searles, representing Carrie A. bennet of Conway, N.H., who asserts she was injured internally while attending the show at Conway by the collapsing of seats. The Deputy Sheriff served the papers on the proprietors, and they signed an agreement to turn over all the assets of their shows and not to go outside of the State of Vermont. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 44.
• More on the 1919 Coop & Lent show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down.
• Bradbury's comprehensive article on the Coop & Lent Circus is online in Bandwagon, May-Jun 1959.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Cooper Bros. Circus - 1909, 1918 Show is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses for 1909, 1916-1917, 1920-1927, 1930, 1936-1937, 1945, 1949
1909:
Cooper Bros.' Circus, which has been wintering in Forest Park, Gulfport, Miss., gave their initial performance in Gulfport, May 20, to good business. Billboard, June 5, 1909, p. 24.
1917: For 1917 season read Bette Leonard's article Online. CHS founder and later President Leonard was with the show that year.
1918:
Winter quarters. Cooper Bros.' Shows, E. H. Jones, manager; Fair Grounds, Shreveport, La. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
Wanted for Cooper Bros.' Two-Car Show to open in Shreveport March 23. Two trombones, baritone, bass, clarinet, two cornets. Can use one tema all-round performers. Want light man. Can use colored musicians for sideshow band. E. H. Jones, manager, Yource Hotel, Shreveport, La. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 16, 1918, p. 66.
• In 1925 Cooper Bros. Circus was owned by Elmer H. Jones. Bandwagon, May-June, 1977, p. 11.
• Articles on the 1936 Cooper Bros. Circus, owner Elmer Jones, are in:
• 1951: Elmer H. Jones, brother of the late J. Augustus Jones, and co-owner of the Jones Bros. and Cooper Bros. shows, still lives in Warren, Pennsylvania, his home town. Greater Show World, August, 1951, p. 10.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Cooper & Bailey - 1876
The stock, old wagons and trumpery belonging to Cooper & Bailey's Great International Circus were disposed of at auction Thursday at Baily & Wolforth's stables, 1504 Broadway, New York. The circus proprietors are fitting up an entirely new outfit for the approaching show season and will open in that city about the 17th. The mules and wagons were sold for the reason that the establishment will be transported by railroad instead of the customary way, but new cages are being made for the lions, tigers and other wild animals which are boarding at 898 Broadway. There was quite a large attendance at the sale, and Judge P. J. Lanham was the auctioneer.
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Cooper & Carroll - 1891
Wanted, for Cooper & Carroll's New United Southern Shows. Riders, jugglers, brother act, Indians, cowboys, in fact people in all branches of the circus business. First class band six or eight mouthpieces and musicians, must thoroughly understand circus music. A feature of the show is our band music. Also want trick dogs, ponies, goats and mules. All privileges for sale. Long season South. Would like to hear from agent, boss canvasman and chandelier man. Address Cooper & Carroll, Medon(?), Madison County, Tennessee. Performers, address Al.(?) Duray, equestrian director. New York Clipper, September 12, 1891 [probably], p. 463.
Call. All people engaged for Cooper & Carroll's New United Southern Railroad Shows. Report for rehearsal Monday, Sept. ?? at Medon(?), Madison County, Tenn. Cooper & Carroll. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 498.
The Three Gardner Bros. and John Morris have signed with Cooper & Carroll's United Southern Shows. Ed. C. Abbey will have charge of the advance corps. New York Clipper, October 3, 1891, p. 502.
Roster of Cooper & Carroll's New United Southern R. R. Shows. Cooper & Carroll, sole proprietors; A. C. Murrelle, manager; Al. Duray, equestrian director; Three Gardner Brothers . . . Al. Duray, Prof. Albert Hall, Decameron, John Morris, Bowen Bros. . . . Geo. E. Smart, leader of orchestra; Frank Ide, I. W. Watson . . . W. E. Collier . . . Bert Wittier, Baker and Bart(?), Morris and Oscar Willey. We opened at Medon, Tenn., Oct 3(?), and gave two performances to crowded houses. The band is a big feature in our parade. At Jackson, Tenn., we had to turn people away. We have an elegant sleeper, one baggage and one flat car. New York Clipper, October 17, 1891, p. 535.
On the road, circuses: Cooper & Carroll's, Landerdale, Miss. Nov 4, Meridian, 5(?)-7(?). New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 589.
Notes from Cooper & Carroll's New United Southern Shows. This is our fifth week out, and business has been exceptionally good. At Columbus, Miss., the capacity of the canvas was put to a test. The weather continues fine, and we are heading for Mobile, and then go into Florida for the winter. Manager Murrelle left Oct. 30 for Meridan, to attend the Forepaugh Show. He intends buying an elephant, a band wagon, two baggage wagons and flat cars. I. N. Fisk has secured the sideshow and candy privileges, which add considerable to the amount of canvas already spread. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 593.
Wanted, for Cooper & Carroll's Southern Shows. Performers in all branches of the circus business, including a good clown; also wanted, a first class agent. All winter engagement. Address Cooper & Carroll, Vicksburg, Miss. Nov. 11-14, Delhi, La., 17, Monroe 18, 19. New York Clipper, November 14, 1891, p. 612.
Master Decameo has closed with Cooper & Carroll's Southern Shows and joined hands with Phil Allen. The team are doing a double trapeze Mexican ladder act with D. R. P. Nelson's Medicine Co. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
On the road, circuses: Cooper & Carroll's, Lafayette, La. Dec 9, 10, Beaumont, Tex. 14, Houston 18-19. New York Clipper, December 12, 1891, p. 669.
Houston, Texas. Cooper & Carroll's Circus opened 14(?) for four days. New York Clipper, December 26, 1891, p. 708.
The Cooper & Carroll Circus collapsed at La Grange, Tex., Dec. 23, after a very turbulent season, under the direction of Manager Murrelle. The ___ story of delayed salaries, unpaid board bills, etc., is told by the stranded company. New York Clipper, January 9, 1892, p. 728.
• 1892: Prof. Albert Hall, late of Cooper & Carroll's Circus, is spending the remainer of the winter season at Jackson, Tenn., where he is precticing a new slack wire act. New York Clipper, February 13, 1892, p. 809.
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Cooper & Co. - 1896-99, 1900-01 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1874, 1896-1900
1896:
Notes from Cooper & Co.'s Great Southern United Shows. We arrived in New Orleans, Louisiana, February 2, for an unlimited stay. The tents were erected on Lee's Circle, and every tent was decorated with immense flags of all nations. The show is billed to remain on Lee's Circle until March 1. Roster: J. R. W. Hennessey, manager; W. E. Mcminimy, big show tickets; T. F. Fanning, charge of seat, concert and annex tickets, with four assistants; T. J. Oatman, equestrian director; Prof. S. P. Bowman, general orator; B. Alberts, asst. orator; Herr Drayton, juggler, kicking barrel and dumb bell cross; Wm. Reno and Eva Haladay, trapeze and revolving ladder; Blair, Kealy and Reno, clowns; Pekunos' Oriental Troupe of Japs, seven in number, doing eight different acts; Prof. Reno, trained elephant; Chas. Drayton, juggling cannon balls and heavy weights; Mlle Lula, trick horse Topsy; Mme. Bowman and her troupe of trained dogs; Marcella Sisters; Millie, Eva and Anna, trapeze; T. J. Oatman, educated horses, ponies and mule; Aldine and Aida, female contortion; Mme. Millie, flying perch; Madeline Murray, menage, and the bucking mule, Jeremiah. Concert: Myrtle Day, Wm. Reno, Gus Blair, Sadie Davidson, Billy Gill, Bob Gronnell, Sallie Lincoln, Bert Warren, Aldine and Aida, Billy Mikessel, afterpieces. The band: T. Cooney, leader; C. F. Carroll, F. P. Meister, Elmer Spears, __ Graham, W. P. English, S. Yeager, Bert Watson and Joe Greely. The annex includes cages of animals and rare birds. Prof. S. P. Bowman, orator, magician and Punch and Judy; Mrs. Julia Bowman, serpent queen; Barney Baldwin, man with a broken neck . . . Wm. Jacobs, boss property man with three assistants, and H. Stevens, charge of stock with two assistants. . . . New York Clipper, February 22, 1896, p. 809.
1897:
Roster of Cooper & Co.'s Great United Shows. J. R. W. Hennessey, sole proprietor and manager; Prof. Oatman, equestrian director; W. W. Stoltz, treasurer; Clem. Kerr, advertising agent with six assistants; Clarence Kerr, boss canvasman with twelve assistants; Prof. Albert Geis, bandmaster; Hanks Baird, Geo. Lowe, Earl Ewing, Geo. H. Murray, C. O. Goss, L. D. Wheeler, J. C. Livadais, Prof. Oatman and troupe of trained horses and mules; Mlle. Lula Oatman, trained pony and menage act; the Jennier Family, consisting of Geo. Jennier, equilibrist; Maudie Jennier, slack wire and double trapeze; George and Walter Jennier; the Three La Sage Bros., acrobats; Millette and Ries, carrying perch; Harry La Sage, somersault dancing rope; Eddie Millette, head balancing trapeze; Fred O'Brine, principal clown; Harry Evans, singing clown; Ed. De Long, stilts and knockabout clown; Frankie Harris, two pony act and tumbler; Wm. Dulton Jr., principal double somersault leaper; Vatumamota Bros., Japanese balancing acts; Mrs. Jennier, Lively and Evans and Ed. De Long. New York Clipper, March 13, 1897, p. 29.
1898:
Cooper & Co.'s Railroad Show left their cars in New Orleans, Louisiana, January 11, and chartered the steamboats Hibernia and Lilly turner and barges for a tour of the Mississippi River, bayous and lake of Louisiana, and will return to their cars at New Orleans for the Mardi Gras. New York Clipper, January 29, 1898, p. 796.
Cooper & Co.'s Circus notes. Prof. Oatman is breaking a four pony act and a riding monkey. The following have been engaged: Prof. Williams, band leader; Yetto's Royal Troupe of Japanese jugglers, four in number; Ty Bells, Richards, Frisco and Emanuel, Mexican gymnasts; A. G. Lowanda, principal somersault rider; Lizzie Devear, slack wire and flying rings. New York Clipper, March 19, 1898, p. 44.
Roster, Cooper & Co.'s Show. J. R. W. Hennesey, owner and manager; Joe Oatman, equestrian director; Ed Brannan, advance with eight men; Prof. Williams, band leader; Wm. Thacker, Dan Wallar, Alex Krager, Earl Ewing, Frank P. Meisner, Fred Williams, Wm. French, Geo. Lowe, Frank Smiley, John Liversdale. Performers: Prof. Oatman and wife, the Ty-Bells, Trover, Rickard Trio, the Rowans, A. G. Lawanda . . . Sig Frisco, Ed Neola, Ed DeLong, Mille Lula, Silver Sisters. Kid Show People, Capt. White and wife, Edward Woode, M'lle Leona, Millie Knowles, George King. Walter Shannon and wife, privileges. Ticket sellers: Clem Kerr, Walter Shannon, Floyd Trover, Doc White . . . John West, boss hostler with eight men; Tom Malone, charge of wardrobe; Jack Wilson, chandeliers. The show opened at Memphis, Tennessee. New York Clipper, June 11, 1898, p. 243.
Notes from Cooper & Co.'s Circus. Col. Hennessey, our manager, and general agent B. L. Brannan [or E. L. Brannon], were in Cincinnati, O., last week, attending the sale of the Hummell Show, where they bought five head of horses, the elephant, den of lions, four in number, and the horses and stuff reached the show at Dalton, Ga. The parade has been improved and business big. The show will stay out until Feb. __, and probably ship to Chattanooga, paint and repair, as quarters have been offered. Two new cars are building. Next season we will be a six car show and an advance car. New York Clipper, October 29, 1898, p. 594.
1899:
The Emporia [Kansas] papers say that Cooper & Co.'s circus which was billed for Newton today and Hutchinson tomorroe, turned back at Emporia and went to Osage City, and will not come west. The Santa Fe officials say the order to receive the circus has been cancelled. A meeting of several Hutchinson men who held due bills given by the advance agent was held this morning and a representative of their interests started in pursuit. Hutchinson News (Hutchinson, KS), June 22, 1899, p. 1.
There was disappointment today because the "Cooper Railroad Show" did not materialize in Hutchinson. It only came as far west as Emporia and then went to Osage City instead of following its advertised route. Today it is in Topeka. Colonel Hennessey, who owns the show, regretted the misunderstanding. The show had not had a good audience since it left Galena. It was heading for Colorado but the strike ther would paralyze the show business, so it was decided at Emporia to turn back toward Missouri. The crowd at Osage City was not enough to pay transportation. The company has not had a pay day for several weeks. Colonel Hennessey is doing his best to hold his show together, but luck will have to change or "the greatest one ring circus on the road" will be no more. Hutchinson Daily News (Hutchinson, KS), June 23, 1899, n.p.n.
1900:
The show cleaned up $1,500 on the Key West engagement, and made money in the southern towns of Florida. Commending at Jacksonville, however, business fell off and has been bad ever since. Pensacola was simply vile. Even ten-cent cotton can not make the South good country in the spring. J. R. W. Hennessey, proprietor. A Jim Sturgis sold his sixty-foot sleeping car to J. R. W. Hennessey, April 16. The latter will place it in his train, remodeling the one he is at present using, and sending it ahead for an advance car. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6.
Tuesday, June 5, the Cooper & Co.'s United Railroad Shows paid a visit to Shenandoah, and agreeably surprised us with the excellency of its old-time one-ring circus. Manager Hennessey opened the season at Key West, Fla., Feb. 5 . . . The roster of the show is: Cooper & Co., proprietors; J. R. W. Hennessey, manager; W. O.(?) Stultz, treasurer; F. E. Davis, advance manager; T. J. Oatman, equestrian director; Frank E. Piper, excursion agent; C. A. Clarke, press agent; Frank Fox, contracting agent; W. K. Bushnell, ????; Geo. Hall, boss canvasman; Jimmie Connors, candy stand. The following performers are with the show: the three De Bolans(?), Joe Cousins; Mille Lulu; Wm. Sowin and wife; Lee Edmunds; Frisen(?), Storey and wife; Fukin'as troupe of Japs, five in number; Billy and Charlie Boyd; Bobby Gifford; Theo. Barretta; Little Jennie Cronan, two-pony rider; Prof. Furness' Silver Cornet Band of fourteen pieces. The show is routed directly for the coast. . . . C. L. Hoover, Shenandoah, Va. Billboard, June 30, 1900, p. 5.
The roster of the advance of the Cooper & Co. Shows is as follows: C. A. Clarke, general contracting agent; M. C. Cookston, manager advance car No. 1; Jerry duggan, boss bill poster; Harry McHugh, lithographer; Will Morris; programmer; Wm. Smith, Chas. Sewell, Duncan Brown, Lute Summers, Frank Miller, Max Levy, Harry Taylor, billposters. Billboard, August 18, 1900, p. 5.
1901:
Cooper & Co.'s Shows are touring the Tecke country of Louisiana. The show is on a fine boat, the "Joseph A. Brant," and she carries a large barge in tow to carry the horses and baggage wagons. The people all have large state rooms and the cuisine on the boat is excellent. Up to Jan. 31 they had not had a drop of rain for twelve days. The advance travels on a small steamer called the "Little Flora." Mr. Ed Brennan is the agent. Billboard, February 9, 1901, p. 8.
The Cooper & Co. Shows have closed on account of private trouble between Mr. Oatman and his wife. It is said they have separated. The show will paint up and repair and open in about four or six weeks. E. L. Brannon, formerly of Cooper & Co.'s Shows, is now ahead of the Bostock-Ferari Carnival and Midway Company, as special agent. Billboard Billboard, June 22, 1901, p. 5.
Memphis, Tenn., June 19, 1901. The Cooper & Co. Show was organized expressly for the Southern States, where it has enjoyed a splendid reputation for the past six years. It has wintered in Memphis for two seasons.
Billboard Billboard, June 29, 1901, p. 5
Cooper & Co.'s Shows and New York Hippolympiad, with Millie Christine as a special feature, opened their fall and winter season at Memphis, Tenn., Sept. 4. This show plays the southern states exclusively. Billboard, October 19, 1901, p. 4.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Cooper & Jackson's Circus - 1880-84 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1881-86
1880:
Cooper & Jackson's Great Parisian Circus, Menagerie and Museum. C. F. Cooper, general manager; Lyman A. Jackson, treasurer; Martin Ellis, asst. treasurer; Chas. Pratt, press agent; Stewart Davis, equestrian director; Homer Corral, door keeper; Prof. Add. Vogel, leader orchestra; J. M. Barry, supt. horses; J. G. Barnum, supt. canvas; Paul Edmonds, steward. Advance: W. C. Boyd, general agent; J. B. Kennedy, asst. agent . . . Edward Elliott, lithographer; J. A. Murray, chief billposter. Performers: Mlle Annie Worland, equestrienne . . . W. W. Nichols, equestrian . . . New York Clipper, April 17, 1880, p. 27.
Cooper & Jackson's circus and menagerie spread canvas in Bowling Green last Wednesday, and the exhibition was witnessed by a large audience. Some of the feats in the ring were unusually fine and some were decidedly below mediocrity. One of the clowns, Mr. Royce, was the best we have seen for a long time. His syaings were not of the antediluvian order and were entirely free from vulgarity. Bowling Green, Me, Post Observer. Evening Gazette (Port Jervis, NY), June 24, 1880, p. 1.
1881: Adams and Leroy, the clever negro comedians now at the Bijou have the sideshow and concert privileges with Cooper & Jackson's circus for the tenting season. They join the show on the 20th. Fort Wayne Daily Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), April 8, 1881, n.p.n.
1882:
Cooper, Jackson & Co. have engaged for their New Gigantic Railroad Show the following: Robert Stickney, Zazel, the human cannon-ball; Geo. Wambold and wife, Jo. Kennebel, the French clown; Minerta, the iron jaw woman; C. O. Howes, W. W. White, F. C. Hall, Mlle. De Montague, C. M. Boyce, Jas. Elms, David Costello, the Morosco Brothers, Lottie Cushman, W. W. Cochran and wife, Nellie Clark, Ella Marrow, Geo. Cash, S. H. Howard, Geo. Connors, T. B. Russell, O. H. Gray, Willie Wallace and Marie Almont. The advance will be directed by L. B. Lent, W. C. Boyd, C. H. Day, L. B. Gaylord, N. T. Norton and W. T. Parsons. They will give their first performance April 12, and the artists engaged are requested to report at the Everett House, St. Louis, Mo., 11. New York Clipper, April 1, 1882, p. 26.
With Cooper, Jackson & Co.'s Railroad Show the company will include Mlle. Wombold, Mlle. De Montague, David Castello, Minnie Minnetta, Adolph Morosco, F. H. Hall, Ella Stowe, Lottie Cashman, George Wombold and trained dogs, Zazel, Kenebel, Royce, White and Cochran, clowns, and Miss Ida V. Reed, "the $10,000 Beauty." Charles H. Day is the general press agent. New York Clipper, April 15, 1882, p. 58.
The Cooper, Jackson & Co.'s circus was attached at Creston for $15,000, by eastern parties. Atlantic Daily Telegraph (Atlantic, IA), May 17, 1882, n.p.n.
Cooper & Jackson's circus collapsed at Creston the other day and is now in the hands of the sheriff. Davenport Weekly Gazette (Davenport, IA), May 31, 1882, n.p.n.
1883:
Playing Texas and Mexico. Alf Dorian, contortionist, with show. New York Clipper, February 10, 1883, p. 5; March 3, 1883, p. 814; June 23, 1883, p. 227.
Cooper and Jackson's circus paraded the streets this morning. Though some of the features of the parade were pleasing, the managers say an opinion of the circus should not be predicted on the parade. Cooper is an old circus man and has the reputation of offering good attractions. The claim is made that the ring performance will be the best made in San Antonio. The principal equestrienne, Clarinda Lowande, is a lady who is second only to Madame Dockrill. Willie O'Dale, is one of the bareback riders. Evening Light (San Antonio, TX), January 27, 1883, n.p.n.
Cooper & Jackson's circus was just ready for a performance at Whiting when the storm came up. The tent came down with a crash, and a Mrs. Medlack was badly injured by the falling centre pole. Atchison Globe (Atchison, KS), July 14, 1883, p. 1.
[Advertisement] Cooper, Jackson & Co.'s Circus and Menagerie will visit Anita on Tuesday, August 14. Some of the widely known arenic performers engaged by this company are Minnie Minnetta, Clarinda Lowanda, Frankie Berry, Mdme Wombold, David Costello, Henry Lamkins, Jos. Dorian, etc. Also on exhibition, Bolivar, the largest elephant in captivity, weighing 8,000 pounds, and whose tusks are 8 feet long, and "Satan" the fire horse. Anita Times (Anita, IA), August 2, 1883, p. 1.
• Information on the 1883 Cooper, Jackson & Co.'s show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 6, pp. 72-74.
1884:
J. C. Sutherland, advance. Quinnett Family with show. Closed at Batesville, Mississippi on November 15 with some attachments at Memphis. Receiver appointed at Memphis, Tennessee to sell the show. New York Clipper, March 29, 1884, p. 23; August 9, 1884, p. 325; November 29, 1884, p. 581; December 6, 1884, n.p.n.; December 13, 1884, p. 613.
Charles Frost left for Memphis, Tennessee, on last Saturday, called there by a telegram from his brother, Hyatt Frost, who is there to attend the sale of Cooper & Co.'s Circus. Cambridge City Tribune (Cambridge City, IN), December 4, 1884, n.p.n.
• Information on the 1884 Cooper, Jackson & Co.'s New York & New England Menagerie, Museum, Circus, Caravan, Hippodrome and Bicycle Riding Association and Double Ring Shows is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 3, pp. 26-29.
• Charles F. Cooper death, partner since 1881 with Linas A. Jackson in Cooper, Jackson & Co. Wm. J. Jackson, formerly of this show, died in St. Louis on October 21, 1886, age 33. Lewis B. Lent won a suit against the estate of L. A. Jackson for routing services on the Cooper & Jackson Show in 1882. Mrs. Jessie Cooper, widow of Harry Cooper of the show is keeping a boarding house in Memphis. New York Clipper, January 10, 1885, p. 677; February 28, 1885, p. 788; July 4, 1885, p. 250; October 30, 1886, p. 516; November 6, 1886, p. 532.
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Cooper & Myers - 1858
[Advertisement] Cooper & Myers' Circus of all Nations. Representing the amusements of the world, will exhibit at Janesville, Friday, May 28. Tho. Graven, equestrian director. Buck Gardiner, principal clown and jester. Among the leading features of this immense troupe are the acknowledged sixteen star equestrians! The four champions in riding, vaulting, leaping and tumbling. Three star lady equestrians. Three double somerset performers. The amusement will be enlivened by three popular clowns, Gardiner, Kent and Myers. The doors will open at 2 and 7 p.m. Performances commence half an hour afterwards. Admisstion - Box 50 cts.; Pit 25 cts. Children under ten years half price to box. J. F. Sutton. Gratuitous exhibiton. Grand ascension upon a single wire, by Mad. Worland, previous to the commencement of the afternoon performance. Remember this will be free. Janesville Daily Morning Gazette (WI), May 22, 1858, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Cooper & Myers' Circus of all Nations. Representing the amusements of the world, will exhibit at Whitewater, Saturday, May 29, 1858. Thos. Graven, equestrian director. Buck Gardiner, principal clown and jester. Among the leading features of this troupe are the acknowledged "Four Champions of christendom." C. W. Dale, the champion "rider." Thos. Graves, the champion "vaulter." Jerry Worland, the champion "leaper." Buck Gardiner, the champion clown. The following lady equestrians will also appear in various acts. Madam T. Craven, Madam J. Worland, and Senora Loretta.
Cooper & Myers' "Circus of all Nations," which was to have performed in this city yesterday, did not arrive, being detained, no doubt, by the bad weather. The Free Democrat of last evening stated that it had arrived and that it was "attracting quite a crowd." Milwaukee Daily Sentinel (WI), June 5, 1858, p. 1.
Cooper & Myer's "Circus of all Nations," gave entertainment yesterday afternoon and evening, which was attended by nearly, if not quite, people of all Nations, and a goodly crowd at that. The performances were excellent. Owing to the bad state of the roade, they have determined to remain here and give afternoon and evening entertainments on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. Milwaukee Daily News (WI), June 6, 1858, p. 1.
We understand that the great circus of Messrs. Cooper & Myers has burst up and "vamoosed the ranche." One man running away with all the money and another with all the horses &c. We did not suppose that it was much of a circus all the time. Daily State Journal (Madison, WI), June 15, 1858, n.p.n.
Cooper & Myers' Circus. A Grand Smash Up. This company performed here on Thursday evening last. The performance was very good, and the tent well filled. After the performance closed, supplementaries, not advertised in the bills, were introduced. One of the partners, Meyers, raking together the available cash of the concern, and deposisting it in - his pantaloon pockets - goes to the hotel stables and takes out fifteen horses - the first choice, and slopes with his plunder, the darkness of the night wont his security, so no questions were asked. Meantime, an attachment of some thousands of dollars due creditors, was served on the rest of the circus property, and Cooper, the manager, was left in a sad plight. But his Hiberian wit was equal to the emergency, and straightway he dashes out of town, with one of Thurtan's fast teams, in pursuit of his worthy partner, Myers. The race was a long one. When near Delavan, in Walworth County, Cooper, in passing an old barn by the road-side, recognized one of his fugitive horses, peering out into the darkness. The animal was probably melancholy. He rushed into the barn, and found all the horses, in the care of some boys, Myers having gone to Delavan to make arrangements for shipping his plunder. Cooper of course took possession and started the horses under a strong gallope for the State Line, to ship at Belvidere. The pursued now became the pursuers, and at last accounts, the pair were making good time. - Waukesha Republican. Baraboo Republic (WI), June 24, 1858, n.p.n.
The officers of the Waukesha Co. Agricultural Society have purchased the large tent of Cooper & Myers' Circus, which was sold on execution at Waukesha. It will seat between three and four thousand people. - Chief. Waupun Times (WI), July 28, 1858, n.p.n.
• 1858: online at Clipper, June 19, Clipper, June 26 (scroll down)
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Cooper & Rodden - 1892
Wanted, for F. W. Cooper & J. H. Rodden Combined Shows, organizing for Southern tour, people in all branches of circus business. Must do two or more acts; concert and sideshow, lady with her own snakes, sideshow talker, experienced advance agent, billposters, lithographers, etc. Programmers, boss canvas man, boss hostler, boss chandelier man, two, four and six horse drivers. Show runs until 24(?)th Dec. Also a . . . push pole top, and 10 or 12 paintings, two 36(?) horse tents, with trough, complete. N.B. Lee Howard, Dan Manning, Andy Showers, Le?o Dubar, please write. Address ___ Sixth Avenue, Des Moines, Ia. New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 321.
Call. People engaged for Cooper & Rodden's Combined Shows report for rehearsal at Des Moines, Iowa, Aug. 1?. Wanted, musicians that double in orchestra; also trapeze team, lady and gent, or any novel act for big show or concert. Long season. Cooper & Rodden, ___ Sixth Avenue, Des Moines, Iowa. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 369.
Cooper & Rodden's Great R. R. Show. Wanted for long season South, performers of all kinds (except riders), singling clown, principal leaper, iron jaw lady, lady for wire act that does single trapeze, double song and dance team and serio comic for concert. White band, 6 or 7 men for siedshow. Per route: Lineville, Ia. Sep 2, Princeton Mo. Sep 3, Trenton Mo. Sep 5, Jamesport Mo. Sep 6, Gallatin Mr. Sep 7, Winston Mo 8, Maysville Mo. 9, St. Joseph Mo. 10, Troy, Kas. Sep 12. New York Clipper, September 3, 1892, p. 418.
Hattie and Joe Richard did their double trapeze act over the lake at Zoo Park, Springfield, Mo. They finished their two weeks' work, and joined the Cooper & Rodden Show at Des Moines, Ia. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 422.
Cooper & Roddon's Show is reported to have closed at Clinton, Mo., Oct. 1. New York Clipper, October 15, 1892, p. 507.
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Cooper & Scott's - 1874
The Round House, Morristown, Minn., in which Cooper & Scott's Menagerie has winter quarters, took fire on Nov. 2, buring the roof and damaging the cages and trappings. Loss about $1,000. New York Clipper, November 14, 1874, p. 263.
Cooper & Scott's Circus and Menagerie wants performers for the season of 1875. All letters directed to Cooper & Scott, managers of Circus and Menagerie and Balloon Show, Morristown, Rice Co., Minn. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, November 14, 1874, p. 264.
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Cooper & Smith - 1894
Wanted for Cooper & Smith's Combined Shows. A troupe of ponies and dogs . . . People that can double in concert. New York Clipper, November 10, 1894, p. 582.
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Coronas Circus - 1976, 1980, 1984-86, 1997
• Coronas Circus was out in 1976. Bandwagon, January-February, 1977.
1980: Coronas Thrill Circus played from Florida to as far West as Colorado. Bandwagon, January-February, 1981, p. 15.
• Brief information on the 1981 show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1982, p. 15.
1984: Charles Coronas Sr. claimed this was the show's most successful year. They closed the season in Kansas City in late October. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 13.
1985: Coronas had two units out in 1985. The first unit played small and medium sized towns for Shrine. The second unit was a midway attraction on the United Shows Carnival from July to November. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 12.
1986: The show had two units on the road in 1986. The Shrine version opened near Atlanta in early April and closed at Kansas City in late October. The fair show started in late January in West Palm Beach, Florida and closed at Deland, Florida in December. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 13.
1997: The George Coronas' Circus exhibited in 1997, but owner George Coronas sold his equipment and winter quarters to Tarzan Zerbini. Bandwagon, March-April, 1998, p. 19.
• Coronas Circus Productions listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1982-1990, Charles Coronas Sr, owner.
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Correll's - 1930
Correll Circus is coming to Elyria, June 30. The show is composed of twenty-four separate displays, including performing animals, horses and ponies, aerialists, acrobats, gymnasts and contortionists. The Correll Circus is presented on the European plan, which includes one ring, one stage and one arena, and a continuous performance on all three. Chronicle-Telegram (Elyria, OH), June 17, 1930, p. 4.
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Cortina's Wild West - 1885 Senor Cortina's Spanish Mexican & Wild West Shows
• show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1885
1885:
Senor Cortina's Spanish-Mexican and Wild West Shows, now organizing for a tour through the United States and Canadas, will take the road by rail in April. A few privileges for sale. Agents and billposters wanted. Address J. R. W. Hennessey, general manager, St. Louis, Mo. New York Clipper, March 7, 1885, p. 817.
Will A. Innes is general agent of Cortina's Wild West Show. New York Clipper, May 9, 1885, p. 126.
Fort Scott, Kansas. Cortina's Spanish-Mexican Wild West Show at Fair grounds 19 and 20. Roster, as furnished by C. K. Phillips, of Sig. Cortina's Show: Sig. Cortina, proprietor; C. R. R. Hennessey, general manager; Maj. Morris, railroad contractor; Will A. Innes, general agent; C. Sumner Burroughs, special agent; C. H. Durel, excursion agent; C. H. Phillips, charge of car No. 1 and 16 men; A. Browning, car No. 2 and men; C. J. Fox and 4 men in the programme brigade. Entire show travels by rail (24 cars). Special features: Capt. E. E. Stubbs, champion wing-shot; Sig. Gloria's Mexican National band; cowboys, Indians, Mexicans, scouts, greasers, pions, elk, buffaloes, cattle, bronchos, etc. New York Clipper, May 23, 1885, p. 153.
Cortina's Wild West Show went to pieces at Galesburg, Ill., June 4. Associated Press dispatches say that attachments were served on most of the property, but that the cowboys, Mexicans and Indians of the troupe seized the herd of ponies and started for the West. No attempt was made to stop them. New York Clipper, June 13, 1885, p. 200.
J. R. W. Hennessey, general manager. Played a two day stand at Ft. Scott, Kansas, ca. May. Went bankrupt at Galesburg, Illinois on Jun 4. New York Clipper, March 21, 1885, p. 15; May 16, 1885, p. 139.
• Information on the 1885 Cortina's Spanish-Mexican Wild West Show is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 5, p. 41.
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Costello's Show - 1889 Harry Costello's Circus; Costello & Co.'s Inter-Ocean Circus; Costello's Circus; Dan Costello Jr.'s Circus
Harry Costello writes that Costello & Co.'s Inter Ocean Circus did not close at Hilbert, Wis., as reported. The show is still on the road, working South and West. There are twenty people with the show: Harry Costello, Sam Thomas, C. Lewis, Billy Johnson, Peter Dishler, Henry Beckman, Charles Robin, Frank Robin, Al. Simson, Frank Burt, F. Hoddy, Sig. Le Varde . . . W. G. Kimball, Billie Klenkes, Ferd. Munson. New York Clipper, June 15, 1889, p. 225.
Archie Headley leaves Grand Rapids, Michigan to join the show. Milwaukee - opened near Racine on May 2 at People's Theatre. Milwaukee - Harry Costello's Circus closed at Hilbert, May 16, poor business. Milwaukee - did not close, continuing with fair success, twenty people on the roster. Wm. St. Arno closed with the show on October 14. New York Clipper, May 4, 1889, p. 124; May 11, 1889, p. 137; May 25, 1889, p. 176; June 1, 1889, p. 188; October 26, 1889, p. 557.
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Costello & Erwin's Circus - 1889
Closed the season on September 2 at Syracuse, Illinois. Nearly all the personnel were retained for Costello & Erwin's Minstrels, opening one week later. New York Clipper, October 5, 1889, p. 505.
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J. W. Couch's - 1873, 1880, 1882-83 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1883
1873:
Couch & Co.'s Circus and Menagerie broke up at Minor, Illinois, the other day, because of the hard times and bad pay of the managers. Titusville Herald (PA), August 12, 1873, n.p.n.
Andy McKay is general agent for J. W. Couch & Co.'s Globe Circus, Museum and Menagerie. New York Clipper, September 13, 1873, p. 192.
1877:
Condee & Couch's Circus, Menagerie and Greatest Museum on Earth, wagon show organizing at Chicago for season of 1878, want to hear from professionals, curiosities, companies who will do our printing cheapest, and everything in the business, second hand or new. Privileges for sale Condee & Couch, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, September 22, 1877, p. 203.
J. W. Couch & Co.'s Circus and Menagerie, organizing for 1878. Want to trade lands for show property. Address or call at our Free Museum and Lunch Saloon, South Clark street, Chicago, Ill. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, November 24, 1877, p. 275.
1880:
J. W. Couch's Comic Circus and Brilliant Museum is to perform in Chicago, Ill., about May 1, and is to travel by railroad. J. W. Couch, proprietor and manager; M. Thorp(?), treasurer; Chas. Willis, advance agent; Pat McFarlan(?) and Johnny Byrne, programmers; Billy Turner, W. Livingston . . . gymnasts; Chas. and George Haywood, comics; H. Kelly, Miss Maud Kelly, Minnie Clark; Prof. Miller's cornet band of seven pieces; Chas. L. Wolf, master of canvas with four assistants. . . . New York Clipper, April 10, 1880, p. 19.
1882:
J. W. Couch's Circus will open its season in Russell, Ia., about May 1. A half interest in the privileges is offered for sale. New York Clipper, April 8, 1882, p. 42.
Call to people engaged for J. W. Couch's show are requested to report at Russell, Ia., May 3. New York Clipper, April 22, 1882, p. 76.
J. W. Couch’s Show includes Fred Faranta, Miss Maria, Chas. Bliss, Mons. Joseph, W. B. York, Romellis, Lem Quillin, Frank M. Angelo, J. A. Branen, Prof. Graham, Sicott and Andrews, Stebleton, Leisle and Julia St. Leton, Jennie De Bar and Leon Whttony’s Masqueraders. James. W. Couch is general manager; Geo. Wilson, assistant manager; C. Peck Russell, manager of publications; Harry Emmings, leader of band; Yankee Quillin, manager of amusement; R. H. Wood, general agent; P. Bliss, manager of concert; J. Willis, manage of museum; E. W. Ladd, treasurer; J. B. Sanders, equestrian director. New York Clipper, April 29, 1882.
1883:
The candy and street privileges with J. W. Couch's Show are to rent. Curiosities are wanted. New York Clipper, April 14, 1883, p. 54.
J. W. Couch's Circus and Wigwam opens in Chicago, Ill., May 31. Among those engaged are William Mauritius and Sig. Lewis Decrastue, clowns; Mons. Zaroni, juggler and balancer; and the general performers W. W. Ferret, G. J. Lloyd, J. A. Brown, Winslow and Jerome, Rich. Dialo, Ben Ray, Prof. C. W. Mack, Prof. Hewes; also Charles Rhodes, boss canvasman and fifteen assistants. There is also a band of twelve pieces. J. W. Couch is the manager and proprietor; Surrel and Ellis, advance agents; and Captain S. J. Simmonds, superintendent. New York Clipper, May 26, 1883, p. 164.
[Advertisement] J. W. Couch's Great 25 Cent Show. 40 beautiful ladies and gentlemen richly and elaborately uniformed in golden armor. Great array of circus talent. Two shows daily at 1 and 7 p.m. Admission 25 cents. Children under 12 years, 15 cents. One week only, commencing June 7. Location on Halsted Street, between 25th and 26th Streets. Oak Park Vindicator (Oak Park, IL), June 9, 1883, n.p.n.
James W. Couch, the circus proprietor, was arrested on Tuesday at the instance of S. Treloar, who lately acted as his advance agent. Couch, he claims, owes him $140 back wages. Treloar further states that Couch owes all his employees wages for the past six weeks, and is now trying to defraud them by selling his property to George Hall. A second warrant was sworn out against Couch, Wednesday, and also one against Hall, charging them with fraudelent conveyance of property. They both gave bail in $200 for appearance before Justice Hoatiling, yesterday. Oak Park Lake Vindicator (Oak Park, IL), June 30, 1883, n.p.n.
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Coulter & Clark - 1907 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1907-08
Coulter and Clark are organizing at Albany, Mo., a dog and pony show. Mr. Clark is the well-known trainer, and Mr. Coulter manages the opera house in Albany and has considerable other business interests there. They have engaged Wm. F. Newland as band master. Billboard, March 2, 1907, p. 26.
• Brief information on the Coulter & Clark show, Wade H. Coulter and Carl H. Clark, owners, is online in Bandwagon, May-Jun 1958 (scroll down).
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W. H. Coulter's - 1911 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911
A. H. Barkley has been and is the only general agent and railroad contractor that the W. H. Coulter Railroad Shows have had this season, reports to the contrary notwithstanding. R. G. Piper will be the local contractor. Roscoe Baker, contortionist and clown, has signed with the W. H. Coulter Show for this season. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
W. H. Coulter's Famous Railroad Shows, circus, hippodrome, museum, menagerie, 100 performers, parade. This year Mr. Coulter has branched out from his Dog and Pony Show with a full fledged circus, previously had Coulter & Clark. Now a railroad show with two trains to transport it. Adams County Free Press (Corning, IA), May 20, 1911; Hamburg (IA) Reporter, Friday, May 26, 1911; Adams County Free Press (Corning, IA), May 13, 1911; Hamburg (IA) Reporter, May 26, 1911.
• William H. Coulter's show in 1911 was a 15 car circus, owned by Coulter, Hoogawaning and Embree. On July 26, 1911 it was combined with Indian Pete's Wild West Show, a 24 car show. The show failed on September 9th. Bandwagon, May-June, 1968, pp. 24-25.
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W. C. Coup's Circus - 1878-79, 1880-83, 1886-87
1878:
W. C. Coup's Show, consisting of the Broncho horses, Jackits-chy's Japanese Troupe, performing goats, dogs, etc., and a den of performing animals, is to exhibit in Troy, N.Y., May 6, 7, 8. Charley Fuller is in advance. New York Clipper, May 4, 1878, p. 47.
Irving's Royal Jackits-Chys Japanese Troupe opens in Brooklyn, N.Y., April 29, with W. C. Coup's International Hippodrome. New York Clipper, May 4, 1878, p. 47.
Coup's Broncho Horse Show was in Elmira, N.Y., June 1, to good business. The Jackits-chy Japanese Troupe are now in the third month of their engagement with W. C. Coup's Broncho Horse Show. New York Clipper, June 8, 1878, p. 87.
Coup’s “Bran-New Show” exhibited the past week in Washington, D.C., to splendid business. Our correspondent says: “It is the opinion of all who visited this show that it is nearly all new and entirely different from any canvas show ever exhibited in this city. The absence of sideshows, candy-butchers, lemonade peddlers, concert solicitors, etc., was a most enjoyable feature. . . . The devil-fish, one of Napoleon’s state carriages, several cages of wild animals, a tally-ho coach, a living giraffe are in the first tent. In the ring appear Irving’s Jackits-chy Japanese Troupe, whose performances are remarkable clever; the Austins - Charles and Carrie - in their lightning drill and dashing bayonet combat; the Snow Brothers in agile acrobatic feats, including the tossing of the hats; Miss Emma Stokes and her horse Nevada; the Broncho horses - eight in number - under the management of their trainer Mr. Fryer, go through a wonderfully precise military drill, and perform a number of tricks that seemed almost impossible for animals to learn. One of these horses, named Nettle, excited general admiration by leaping over a five-barred gate and four horses with the utmost ease. A troupe of trained dogs were also exhibited by Mr. Fryer, and displayed remarkable intelligence. Mlle. Rhinehart the beast-tamer showed her power over a cage of lions and a savage leopard. . . . The officers are W. C. Coup, proprietor; Charles W. Fuller, general manager; Ed. A. Tinkham, general agent; Chas. H. Day, general advertiser; J. J. Leyden, chief of paste brigade; Edgar Almon Menter, leader of brass band; Prof. R. W. Freyer, director of amusements.” [W. C. Coup’s Equescurriculum] New York Clipper, June 22, 1878.
Coup's Equescurriculum exhibited in Hornellsville, N.Y., July 11, to a crowded tent. Mr. Coup has engaged the man with the only flying machine, at an expense of $1,000 per week. Route: Toronto, Ont., 15, 16, Hamilton 17, London 18, Brantford 19, and Guelph 20. In Wellsville, N.Y., 10, there were 6,000 people at the two performances. New York Clipper, July 20, 1878, p. 135.
W. C. Coup's Equescurriculum commenced Oct. 15 a season in Philadelphia, in the building formerly annexed to the Academy of Fine Arts, in that city. The programme included feats of balancing by the Jackits-Chys Japs, club swinging by James Messenger, acrobatic feats by the Snow Brothers, a manege act by Miss Emma Stokes, and the trained Broncho horses, performing dogs and goats, all introduced by their trainer, R. W. Fryer. The performance concluded with an expose of the manner of learning how to be a circus rider. Attendance was excellent. New York Clipper, October 26, 1878, p. 247.
W. C. Coup's Equescurriculum is in Philadelphia. Manager Coup has a handsome tally-ho coach, drawn by four spirited black horses, in which he recently treated a delegation of the newspaper fraternity to a ride through Fairmount Park. . . . New York Clipper, November 2, 1878, p. 251.
W. C. Coup's Equescurriculum, now in Philadelphia. New features introduced last week were Prof. Goroux's act of equilibrism, and Prof. A. W. Sawyer's solo on the "copophone." A trained giraffe will be exhibited for the first time here Nov. 4. New York Clipper, November 9, 1878, p. 263.
1879:
W. C. Coup New United Monster Shows for sale and wanted. For sale a lot of wardrobe (used one season), consisting of three sets of entree dresses, several pad cloths, camel covers, elephant covers, nearly one hundred cages and ornament banners, everything used in circus parades and performances. A magnificent coach, once the property of Napoleon III, the Lord Mayor's Carriage, both in excellent order, and the Tally ho Coach. All above coaches make a splendid show in parade, besides being great curiosities in America; also all kinds of baggage wagons and cages. One 110ft.(?) round top tent (used one season only). Wanted, all kinds of rare curiosities, animate and inanimate. Apply to E. D. Colvin, Sturtevant House, New York. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 8, 1879, p. 363.
W. C. Coup will take the road early in the Spring with fifty trained horses, pony circus, trained dogs, two-legged giraffe, riding elephants, Royal Japs, Cook's Grand Circus, Calvin's London Menagerie London Menagerie, Wood's Museum and Art Gallery, mechanical and msucial novelties and other attractions, and will be known as "W. C. Coup's New United Monster Shows." New York Clipper, March 1, 1879, p. 391.
R. S. Dingess is engaged as general agent with W. C. Coup's Show this season, and E. D. Colvin has purchased all the privileges with the same concern. New York Clipper, February 8, 1879, p. 367.
R. S. Dingess is engaged as advance manager and E. A. Tinkham as general agent of the W. C. Coup New United Monster Shows for season of 1879. New York Clipper, February 22, 1879, p. 379.
Messrs. Colvin & Hagar have secured the following attractions for the concert of the Coup Show: the Belmonts, bellringers; John Sheppard, Ethiopian comedian; Danny O'Brien, song-and-dance; ___, fire-king; and Tom Barry. The sideshow attractions will consist in part of Signor Lorento, wizard; Mlle. Lena, Circassian; and eight-footed horse; and an educated bear performed by Prof. Stoner. New York Clipper, March 29, 1879, p. 7.
W. C. Coup's New United Monster Show, consisting of the Imperial Japanese Circus, Colvin's African Caravan of Zoology, Melville's Australian Circus, Oceanic and Inland Aquarium, $100,000 troupe of wonderful Bronchos, Fryer's Pony Circus and college of comical dogs, Japanese Art Gallery, Wood's famous musuem, Signora Bonita's performing animals and Lucian's trained lions will open the season April 21 at the Union Baseball Grounds, Williamsburg, L.I. Officers and attractions: E. D. Colvin, general manager; R. S. Dingess, general director; James Melville, equestrian director; Geo. J. Guilford, dirctor of publication; Prof. W. D. Butler, director of aquarium; Edgar Menter, musical director; E. A. Tinkham and Eugene A. Weller, contracting agents; Harry Evarts, press agent; Rollande, premiere equestrienne; James Melville, bareback rider; Emma Stokes, acte du manege; Belmont Brothers, Snow Brothers, Wm. O'Dell, Walter Davenport, Willie Rollande, Day and Motlack, Paul Mazzoni, Rivers and Martin, Carl Hamilton and Jose Gomez. Tom Barry and Ben Snow, clowns. The cages, fifteen in number, are filled with rare wild animals, including a hippopotamus and the learned sea lion, "Sambo." The entire paraphernalia and outfit are new, the cages and wagons and the chariots (five in number) having been built during the past Winter. The double-top parlor pavilios, a novelty in exhibitions, are from the workshops of Higgins, as are the stables, boarding, dressing and cook house tents. The Japanese Circus, only one in America, the aquarium of living marine and fresh water fish and curious water reptiles, the Japanese art gallery, covering over 12,000 feet of surface, the Bronch horses and the trained ponies are exclusive specialties with this organization. The exhibition will travel by rail, visiting the principal cities of the Union. New York Clipper, April 19, 1879, p. 31.
R. W. Fryer, at the close of the tening season of 1878, built in Indepencence, Ia., one of the largest and best-appointed training stables in this country. A correspondent writes: "During the past Winter Mr. Fryer has been busily engaged in training dogs and ponies. Some of the leading features of his new entertainment are entirely novel. Prominent among these is a moving pyramid, introducing seven horses, and culminating in a statuesque tableau. Another is a performance on stilts by the pony Robert. Mr. Fryer, with his dogs, horses and ponies, left for New York April 14 to join W. C. Coup's show." New York Clipper, April 26, 1879, p. 39.
Eugene Leach, late of J. H. Murray's Circus, who has been spending the Summer at his home in Elmira, N.Y., left Aug. 21 to join W. C. Coup's Show in Buffalo, N.Y. New York Clipper, August 30, 1879, p. 183.
William H. Morgan closed his engagement with W. C. Coup's United Shows in Columbus, O., and Frank Melville joined in Newark. New York Clipper, October 25, 1879, p. 243.
W. C. Coup's Show winters at the Exposition Buildings, Louisville, Ky. The Snow Brothers, A. E. Menter and members of the band, and Messrs. Frank Melville, James Melville and Hyer arrived in this city 11. Tom Barry, clown; Wm. Rolland, solo cornet; and Madame Rolland, late of the company will embark for England. New York Clipper, November 15, 1879, p. 267.
W. C. Coup has engaged the following people for his United Shows next season: Andrew Haight, advance manager; ___ Tinkham, contracting agent; Tom Sango(?), the Snow Brothers, Katie Stokes, Emma Stokes, and Carl Antonio. Professor Ritchel of Bridgeport is building another flying-machine for W. C. Coup. It will be a mechanical curiosity, from the fact that the car part is to weigh ony six pounds. It will be operated by a dwarf. New York Clipper, December 27, 1879, p. 315.
1880:
W. C. Coup has purchased four sea-lions and a den of performing hyenas. E. D. Colvin returned from Winter quarters at Louisville, Ky., during the past week. James Melville has been secured as equestrian director. Mr. Coup will run his own train of cars next season. New York Clipper, January 24, 1880, p. 347.
W. C. Coup's Circus will give its first performance of the season at the Exposition Building, Louisville, Ky., April 7, and continue there during the week. One of the features will be the reappearance of James Melville, bareback rider, after an absence of three years from the ring. The route after leaving Louisville will be Nashville, Tenn., 12, 13, Bardstown 14, Hopkinsville, Ky., 15, Bowling Green 16, Lebanon 17, New Albany, Ind., 19. New York Clipper, April 10, 1880, p. 19.
Nashville, April 13. James Farris, of Hartford, Conn., was shot and killed here today by a gambler named Geo. Petway. The murder was unprovoked and the community is highly indignant over it. Petway is in jail. Farris was traveling with Coup's Circus, and his remains will be forwarded to his home. Galveston Daily News (Galveston, TX), April 14, 1880, p. 1.
Coup's Circus did a good business at the Exposition Building, Louisville, Ky., last week. Among the attractions were Prof. Fryer's riding dogs and goats, the Japanese in their balancing and juggling feats, Prof. Fryer's performing ponies and broncho horses in their military drill, Napoleon's guilded coach, Emma Stokes, equestrian; Mme. Lottie Belmont, balancing trapezist; and James Melville's bareback riding. Mr. Coup also has a fine collection of animals. New York Clipper, April 17, 1880, p. 27.
W. C. Coup's Circus and Menagerie arrived in the city yesterday from Lafayette. Owing to the lavish rainfall which came down in torrents, the street parade was postponed until one p.m., and even then it was given at a great disadvantage. In the afternoon the ring performance was presented to a moderate sized audience, but owing to the soft condition of the soil neither horses nor riders were enabled to do themselves justice. The trapeze performance, and the "breaks" by the clowns elicited rounds of applause. In the evening the immense amphitheatre was well filled and the conditions for the exhibition being now favorable, the performance was excellent and gave universal satisfaction. At 11:30 the performance closed, and at an early hour this morning Coup's combination steamed out for Fort Wayne. Logansport Journal (Logansport, IN), April 24, 1880, n.p.n.
Coup's Circus to appear in Janesville, Friday, May 21. This year he has united eleven shows in one, crowded with novelites and wonders. The Japanese gymnasts and athletes prove a striking attraction. Two broncho horses are most thoroughly trained. They march and counter march, perform military evolutions, pass a handkerchief from one to the other, each one responds to his name, the balance or teeter, roll barrels up and down a reclined plane, fire off guns, jump through hoops of fire, and other feats. Among the rare and curious monsters of the deep is one of the devil fish, having a lenght of over 39 feet. The Hell Benders will attract attention, as they are among the strangest freaks of nature. Trained sea lions are also a novelty. In the museum is found the traitor's gate, which once closed the portals of the south wall of the tower of London, through which prisoners passed for execution.
Coup's Circus was in Detroit, Mich., May 4. The flying machine was not exhibited, and the ring performances were not what were expected, the dogs and horses being the great features and the best we've ever seen. New York Clipper, May 15, 1880, p. 59.
W. C. Coup's. The riding of Emma Stoke, James Melville and child, William O'Dell and Sig. Antony, the cannon-ball act of Herr Drayton, the trapeze act of Lottie Belmont, the actobatic feats of the Linton Brothers, and the juggling of the Japanese troupe proved highly satisfactory. The chief charms of the entertainment were the performing dogs, goats and ponies of Prof. Fryer . . . The clowns, Tom Barry and Den Stone, were clever. Geo. J. Guilford has resumed his position as press agent with the W. C. Coup Show. Frank J. Pilling succeeds Col. Robert Filkins as general advertising agent, Filkins rejoining Haverly. Coup's circus goes to Milwaukee, Wis., 17, Oshkosh 18, Green Bay 19, Fond du Lac 20, Janesville 21, Madison 22. New York Clipper, May 22, 1880, p. 67.
John W. Hamilton has been engaged by W. C. Coup to travel in advance of Coup's United Shows for the remainder of the present season. New York Clipper, August 21, 1880, p. 171.
1881:
W. C. Crum goes with the Coup Show the coming season. New York Clipper, January 8, 1881, p. 331.
Andrew Haight, advance manager; Harry McCartney, treasurer; and Edwin A. Tinkham, general contracting agent, have been re-engaged with W. C. Coup's New United Monster Show for season of 1881. New York Clipper, January 22, 1881, p. 347.
Harry Evarts, now descriptive lecturer at Bunnell's Museum, has been engaged for W. C. Coup's United Shows the coming season as press agent and descriptive lecturer, his third consecutive season with this show. New York Clipper, February 12, 1881, p. 371.
W. C. Coup's Show will commence the tenting season April 6 at Broad and Dickinson streets, Philadelphia, remaining there 7, 8 and 9. Dress rehearsals, to which members of the press will be invited, will be given April 4 and 5. New York Clipper, April 2, 1881, p. 26.
Seven car loads of armor, costumes, caparisons and other fakements, together with twelve Roman racing chariots, the property of W. C. Coup's Show, arrived last week in Philadelphia, where it will exhibit for four days, commencing April 6. New York Clipper, April 9, 1881, p. 42.
George Middleton has disposed of his interest in Coup's Circus. New York Clipper, August 6, 1881, p. 322.
W. C. Coup's Circus and Hippodrome will show on Adams' Island, Cohoes, Aug. 20. Our correspondent says: "When the agent visited Cohoes to make arrangements he was bluffed by Mayor Thorn with a demand for $250 license fee. The usual license had been $10, but Thorn, who is manager of the Harmony Mills, where 6,000 people are employed, said he didn't want any circus in town, as it interfered with his business. The citizens generally were indignant at the Mayor's course, and Coup has resolved to pay the $250 a play there anyhow." New York Clipper, August 13, 1881, p. 327.
Coup's Circus and Paris Hippodrome exhibited in Pittsburg, Aug. 8, 9. 10. The Mayor of Cohoes, N.Y. weakened from his stand-point of charging W. C. Coup $250 for a license to exhibit there Aug. 20, and made the fee $50, which is thought to be twice what it should be. The whole proceeding has been a splendid advertising for Coup. New York Clipper, August 20, 1881, p. 343.
A grand reception will be tendered by W. C. Coup to all his old friends and patrons at Madison Square Garden, September 6, at 6 p.m., to celebrate the occupanty of his old building, thousands of dollars having been expended by Mr. Coup in refitting and decorating the premises especially for this occasion and to display his Grand Paris Hippodrome and Great Triple Circus in Three Rings. The Hippodrome will have a race track encircling the entire interior of the building, upon which will be presented Roman chariot race, female jockey race, hurdle and flat race, steeplechase races, comic races, tableaux. Equestrian exhibition in three circus rings. Midway in the performances, Lu Lu, the man-bird will be hurled through the air ovr the space of the amphitheater, over 100 feet. Headforemost dive of Geraldine, from the roof of the Hippodrome into a net. In addition all the features of W. C. Coup's Colossal Show. Grand torchlight street pageant September 5. New York Clipper, September 3, 1881, p. 390.
W. C. Coup's Combined Shows at Madison Square Garden. . . . Mr. Coup's assistants include Henry Barnum, general manager; Prof. McDonald, director; James Melville, equestrian director; Frank Whittaker, Robert White and R. W. Fryer, ringmasters; Harry McCartney, treasurer; and R. F. Hamilton, press agent. The clowns are Ben Snow, Gus Lee and Wm. Holloway. . . . The arenic performances were opened by a troupe of Zulus in their war dances, followed by the Broncho horses in a military drill, Mons. Smeda with his dancing barrel, a Japanese doing the suspended perch and Prof. Orrin and his antopidean ladder. Senor Loande's somersault equestrian act; Geraldine and Leopold and Carroll Brothers, trapeze. Fryer's troup of traine dogs did feats of leaping over a number of horses and passing through a hoop held by a groom. Miss Katie Stokes' principal act on a bareback steed; the Lenton Brothers in acrobatic feats; Smede, Watson and Arnold (clown) in horizontal bars; Donald Melville, bareback rider. Comical acts were given by the Whittaker Bros., the Snow Bros. and "Funny" Carroll. Miss Emma Stokes in a tandem menage act; Charles Lowry rode a hurdle act. "Lulu, the Man Bird," was shot from a catapult a long distance through the air. This is the same Lulu who, some years ago, performed attired as a female, and was shot upwards from the stage to the trapeze suspended from the dome. He is married now, and also a father. The next six acts were devoted to trained horses, led off by Bravo and Bonito; Flora rolled a barrel up and down an inclined plane, Salamander displayed his fearlessness of fire, the clown's trick horse and the comical pony January, and a pony carrying a cannon on its back seemed to enjoy its being discharged, and Nettle the leaper jumped over a gate and cleared four horses beyond it. . . . New York Clipper, September 17, 1881, p. 419.
W. C. Coup's United Shows returned to Augusta, Ga., where they propose to Winter. The show closed the season in Camden, S.C., Nov. 30. New York Clipper, December 10, 1881, p. 619.
• Information on Coup's 1881 show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 2, pp. 43-46.
1882:
Atchison is honored again. A Mrs. Southwick, formerly a resident of this city engaged in teaching fancy work, is now traveling with Coup's circus as the living skeleton. A lady who knew her while she lived in Atchison, talked with Mrs. Southwick and she said she was enjoying good health, although she is probably the skinniest woman in American. She may be seen in Hagar's annex, together with ten or fifteen thousand other curiosities.
The partnership existing between W. C. Coup, W. L. Jukes, George Middleton, Margaret L. Haight and E. D. Colvin was dissolved by mutual consent on Jan. 23, and the business will hereafter be conducted by Mr. Coup. Sam Gladstone goes in advance of the Coup Show the coming season. New York Clipper, February 4, 1882, p. 755.
Harry Evarts, press agent and descriptive lecturer, has been engaged with W. C. Coup's Show for next season. New York Clipper, February 11, 1882, p. 769.
Manager Henry Barnum, in charge of W. C. Coup's Circus, which is in Winter quarters in Augusta, Ga., opens the menagerie department two afternoons in each week at a small admission fee, the receipts being donated to charitable institutions in that city. J. W. Hamilton will have command of the advance department of W. C. Coup's Show the coming season. New York Clipper, February 11, 1882, p. 781.
Coup's circus opens in Augusta, Ga., April, and then heads for California. Charlie Stow, well known in Logansport will be with the Barnum show this year. Logansport Chronicle (Logansport, IN), March 11, 1882, n.p.n.
Griffin, Ga. Our fellow-citizen, Bill Jones, so called, was among the crowd that attended the Coup circus a few weeks ago in this city. The feature that attracted Mr. Jones' attention was the wonderful catapult, the flying machine, and the daring Lu Lu. The catapult is a wonderful machine, so constructed that by the agency of a large number of rubber cords, it will throw a man a great way in the air, giving him several revolutions before alighting. . . . Freeborn County Standard (Albert Lea, MN), March 16, 1882, n.p.n.
Washington, April 1. Guiteau has sold the suit of clothes he wore when he shot the President to Coup's circus for exhibition, and McDonald, the sculptor, is here making busts of Garfield and Guiteau for Coup for exhibition. Oshkosh Daily Northwestern (Oshkosh, WI), April 1, 1882, p. 1.
W. C. Coup's, Augusta, Ga. . . . There have been several additions to the list of animals in the menagerie department. The tent has been standing for the last two weeks, and a daily practice has been going on for some time in anticipation of their opening here April 8. New York Clipper, April 8, 1882, p. 42.
Daniel Betts, the lion tamer of Coup's Circus, while about to enter the lion's cage for the street procession in Augusta, Ga., on Saturday, fell dead of heart disease. Hearld and Torch Light (Hagerstown, MD), April 12, 1882, n.p.n.
W. C. Coup's Show made a parade and inaugurated its season in Augusta, Ga., April 8. Frank Melville, Wm. Ducrow, Herr Drayton, Mlle. Bardeau, the Leonard Bros. (4), the Snow Bros. (2), Mlle. Zuila and Mons. Loyal, and several acrobats show up to advantage in the ring, while W. D. Hagar, proprietor of the privileges, has quite a collection of curiosities in the sideshow. New York Clipper, April 22, 1882, p. 76.
Coup's New United Monster Shows will exhibit in Terre Haute, on Thursday, the 27th inst., and in Vincennes on Friday, the 28th, inst., giving performances afternoon and evening, at 2 o'clock and 8 o'clock. Three full circus companies combined in one. The principal attraction of Coup's famous New York aquarium. A Automatic Museum, with hundreds of moving figures run by steam power generated by six steam engines. A full menagerie of wild animals, including a hippopotamus and a herd of performing elephants. Professor White's dog actors and dog circus and Professor Robert's pony circus. Amos' original Jubilee Singers and colored band. Kalmuck's Palestine Arabs, Ceteway's Amazula princess and suite, a genuine troupe of male and female Zulus, and feats by a company of Turks, Japanes and Egyptain Mamalukes. Sullivan Union (Sullivan, IN), April 26, 1882, n.p.n.
Miss Ida Reed, the American beauty traveling with Coup's Circus, gave up the situation after the performances in this city, and declared her purpose to retire from the disagreeable and embarrassing life of a professional beauty. She left yesterday afternoon for Gratiot, Wis., to spend the summer with her brother. Galveston Daily News (Galveston, TX), August 1, 1882, n.p.n.
Cairo, Ills., August 20. Coup's circus left here this morning on a train divided in two sections. When between Tunnell Hill and New Burnside the engine of the second section ran into the passenger coach of the rear of the first train, completely demolishing the coach and killing three drivers and wounding 25 or 30 others. The stock escaped unhurt. Syracuse Morning Standard (Syracuse, NY), August 21, 1882, p. 1.
Detroit, Aug. 25. Coup's circus after making a brave stand against adverse circumstances, has finally gone to pieces in this city. Attachments to the amount of $25,000 representing claims of employes and others have been put on it here and the whole concern is in the hands of the sheriff. Coup has abandoned all attempts to hold it. Oshkosh Daily Northwestern (Oshkosh, WI), August 25, 1882, p. 1.
The Sheriff at Detroit, who has charge of Coup's defunct circus, has adapted a novel plan of raising money with which to get the employes out of town. Stationing himself at the entrance to the menagerie, he charges an admission of ten cents, and as soon as the receipts foot up enough, he ships one or two of the penniless showman out of town. The show will be sold act auction by the Sheriff in ten days. Logansport Pharos Tribune (Logansport, IN), August 30, 1882, n.p.n.
W. C. Coup's Circus arrived in Detroit, Mich., Aug. 23, and was immediately seized by the Sheriff on an attachment sworn out by Frank Melville, equestrian; Wm. Ducrow, equestrian director; and George Loyal, gymnast, whose claims for back salaries amount to $5,000. Our correspondent says: "Unfavorable weather and the recent railway disaster near Cairo resulted in heavy losses; but Mr. Coup saw a prospect of retrieving his losses in Michigan, and says he would have done so. He states further that those three men have taken advantage of his crippled condition. Mr. Coup hoped to make some arrangement by which he could carry on his business; but attachments poured in until they now aggregate about $25,000, and he has no alternative but to sell the show under the hammer. His loss will be at least $100,000. The receipts for the three performances here were only $1,700, while they would possibly have been $10,000 if he had not been interfered with. The collapse of the circus throws a large number of performers out of employment, and it is too late in the season to obtain new engagements now. The Sheriff has possession of the circus and of $1,000 of the receipts." New York Clipper, September 2, 1882, p. 384.
Milwaukee, Wis., Sept. 1. Papers have been served on Alexander Mitchell, President of the Chicago, Milwaukee & St. Paul Railway Company, in a suit brought by Albert Haight against the St. Paul Company to garnishee a car in the hands of the company belonging to W. C. Coup, the circus manager. Mr. Haight was Coup's railway manager, and claims that the noted circus man owes him about half a year's salary, the salary being at the rate of about $5,000 a year. Janesville Daily Gazette (Janesville, WI), September 2, 1992, p. 1.
Detroit, September 16. Coup's circus being sold by the sheriff to satisfy the numerous judgments of a number of creditors. Quite a number of circus proprietors and representatives of zoological gardens at Toronto, Ont., were present. The hippopotamus brought $2,900; gnu, $625; pair of porcupines for the Cincinnati gardnes, $65; monkeys, $14 each; eight cockatoos, $72; pair of lions and one leopard, $250; three hyenas, $99; a couple of Malayan sun bears went to Cincinnati for $220; South American jaguar, $135; kangaroo, $100. The property sold today aggregated $11,000. The elephants and eighty horses are to be sold Monday. Fort Wayne Daily Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), September 17, 1882, n.p.n.
Detroit, Sept. 19. The Sheriff's sale of W. C. Coup's circus property was finished today. The total amount realized was $35,600. Eighty seven horses and three elephants belonging to the show were purchased in one lot today for $18,750, by George Case, a liveryman of this city. New York Times (New York, NY), September 20, 1882, p. 5.
Clarence Fullwiller, of Peru, who is well known in this city, and Ben Wallace, another capitalist of the village up the Wabash, have purchased a part of Coup's circus which went broke at Detroit some months ago, and wills start out early in the Spring on a tour of the country. Mr. Wallace is now among the jungles of the Southern States looking for attractions. Logansport Journal (Logansport, IN), November 30, 1882, n.p.n.
W. C. Coup's interest in Nathan & Co.'s Circus was sold by the Sheriff Nov. 28, at Geneva, N.Y. It consists of several cars, cages of animals and a tally-ho coach. New York Clipper, December 9, 1882, p. 622.
• An article on the demise of W. C. Coup's circus in 1882 is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1984, Vol. 28, No. 5, pp. 14-20.
1883:
W. C. Coup is erecting at the junction of Fifth and Flatbush avenues, Brooklyn, L.I., a canvas pavilion in which he will open on May 14(?) an "Equescurriculum" and Museum. There will be two performances daily, and the museum will be open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. The admission will be a dime. Mr. Coup announces his intention of erecting permanent exhibition buildings and locating in Brooklyn. New York Clipper, May 12, 1883, p. 118.
M. B. Leavitt and W. C. Coup are organizing a circus company to take the road shortly. There will be nothing but a fine ring performance. It will be given in a tent that will seat four thousand persons, and the prices will be ten, fifteen, and twenty-five cents. Fort Wayne Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), April 1, 1883, p. 3.
W. C. Coup arrived in Rochester, N.Y., the past week from the West, where he had been to attend the funeral of his father. Worth's Museum and Comic-opera Co., in which Mr. Coup is interested, is to begin a season under canvas in Rochester, July 30. New York Clipper, July 28, 1883, p. 307.
1886:
W. C. Coup writes us that his Equescurriculum Co. is an incorporated organization. Part of the property consists of a set of performing horses, educated for the stage, and another set trained for tent exhibitions. The latter may be used by Mr. Coup or sold. New York Clipper, January 16, 1886, p. 692.
W. C. Coup & Hadfield Co. Wanted for the New Equescurriculum, specialties, troupe of performing dogs, or dogs, goats and monkeys. Any novelty that can be used for ring or stage. Address W. C. Coup, Indiana street, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, March 13, 1886, p. 829.
Coup's circus gave its last exhibition last night. The horses were shipped to Park Ridge, near Chicago on the night train while the men and the baggage waited over until today, when a sufficient remittance of money was received from headquarters to pay for their transportation. Janesville Daily Gazette (Janesville, WI), July 15, 1886, n.p.n.
1887:
W. C. Coup and his equine are touring through Kansas. The Elliott Family of bicyclists are with the show. New York Clipper, July 16, 1887, p. 275.
• Information on the 1887 W. C. Coup's New York Equescurriculum is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 4, pp. 40-41.
• 1888, see James Maginley.
• Information on the 1888 W. C. Coup's educated horses show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 2, pp. 38-41.
Information on the career of William Cameron Coup (1836-1895) is in Bandwagon, March-April, Vol. 14, No. 2, 1970, pp. 4-8. Also see "Sawdust and Spangles," W. C. Coup, 1901.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Coup Bros. - 1930
The Summersett Amusement Co., of Meyersdale, Pennsylvania, have bought the Cook Bros. circus which has spent the winter in Anson, and are remodeling, re-organizing and enlarging the show prior to going on the road for the 1930 season. They expect to show in Anson about March 22. The show will be renamed the Coup Bros. Circus. E. G. Smith, of Atwater, Ohio, manager of the new show, states that he expects to add several good animals, an elephant, camels and cage animals, to the menagerie. He has signed contracts for well known trapeze performers, acrobats, and gynmasts, among them being the Miller troupe, German acrobats, a family of four; the Tierney family of four, jugglers, wire artists and acrobats; Roxana, equilibrist and aerial artist; and a clown contingent headed by Billie Woodie. Prof. Herbert Swift will have charge of the circus band, which is also being added. The show expects to spend the next winter in Anson. John N. Cover, of Meyersdale, president of the Summersett Amusement Co., will pay the winter quarters a visit in the near future. Western-Examiner (Anson, TX), February 20, 1930, p. 1.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
G. A. Courtney's - 1874-75, 1877, 1880
1874:
Kline and Franklin, well-known gymnasts, are engaged with Courtney & Co's Circus, and sail from New York City for Santiago, Chili. New York Clipper, October 17, 1874, p. 231.
Wanted, for G. A. Courtney & Co.'s Circus, now in Chili, a trick clown. Address Clipper office. New York Clipper, October 17, 1874, p. 232.
The den of performing animals purchased in England by Messrs. Courtney & Co. was shipped from Southampton during September. E. D. Boone is in charge of them, and they are intended for the new Hippodrome, Santiago, Chili. New York Clipper, October 24, 1874, p. 239.
1875: Wanted, for G. A. Courtney & Co.'s South American Circus, 1 lady rider, pad, 1 pad rider, somersault. Will give engagement for six months or one year. Address William Wayson [Watson?], business manager, G. A. Courtney & Co.'s Circus, St. Charles Hotel, N.Y. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, August 14, 1875, p. 157.
1877: Robert Aubrey arrived in this city the past week from South America, where he had fulfilled one year's engagement with G. A. Courtney's Circus in Lima, Peru. . . . New York Clipper, September 8, 1877, p. 191.
1880: G. A. Courtney's Zoological Circus, now touring the West Indies, includes the Baldwin Bros., Richard Bell, Harry Moulton, Max Hugo, Mons. Henrico, John Leslie . . . John Duff, Mlle. Lottie and Mlle. Peyres. New York Clipper, October 9, 1880, p. 227.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Cowles & Chappell - 1889
Cowles and Chappell Equine Show, consisting of fifteen educated horses, will exhibit in this village tomorrow, September 7th. Admission 25 cents, children under twelve 10 cents. Otsego Farmer (Cooperstown, NY), September 7, 1889, p. 5.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Cozad Dog & Pony Show - 1905 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1905
• Sold by Norris & Rowe and became Burch & Reiss Circus at the end of the 1905 season. Bannerline, July 15, 1953, p. 9.
• Earl Peck and Jack Gates, who were with the Cozad show, recalled that it was a two pole, one ring show on two cars, carrying about 25 people, including a five piece band. The kid show had a banner line and bally stand. The cookhouse and dressing tent were combined and there was a horse tent. For the parade they had a three-way open den containing monkeys, parrots and a wild boar. Another open den had a bear and a "wild ass from the Holy Land." There were two head of draft horses for lead stock and a camel. Ring stock was a pony drill, two or three goats, a high school horse, a dog act with eight or ten pups, besides two greyhounds for leapers. Performers slept in the possum bellies. The women had a three high cubicle in one end of a car. Everybody doubled, including getting it up and taking it down. Besides doubling in the band on parade, Jack Gates recalls that they did five turns in the big show and one each in the concert. Gates also did the "human volcano" in the kid show and Earl Peck worked high in the free act. They received $10 per week with a two week hold back. White Tops, January-February, 1947, Vol. 20, Nos. 1-2, p. 2.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
L. W. Craig's London Sensation - 1879 or Collins' London Sensation
Circus talent wanted for L. W. Craig's London Sensation. Leapers, tumblers, bar, trapeze, contortionist, globe act, barrel dancers, plate spinner, jugglers, cannon ball men and wire or rope walkers. Also seven musicians that can play brass and string. Sideshow and other privileges for sale. Address L. W. Craig, sole proprietor, Owensboro, Ky. Show takes the road June __ by wagons. [Advertisemen] New York Clipper, May 10, 1879, p. 51.
The London Sensation Show, Collins' troupe of Comanche Indians, and Prof. N. O. Doty's miniature circus of trained dogs, goats, money, ponies and trained buffaloes, was to have commenced their traveling season in Owensboro, Ky., Jun 14. Proprietors, W. L. Collins & Co.; manager, Wm. D. Curtis; equestrian manager, Al G. Field; treasurer, L. W. Craig; George Allen, master of canvas with fourteen assistants; Wm. Phillips, boss hoslter with two assistants; Wm. Dunn, master of properties. The company includes Mlle. Minneta, iron jaw; Mlle. Lottie and E.(?) Baldwin, aerial gymnasts; Tillie Werner, tight rope dancer and high wire; Al G. Field, dancing barrel and globes; Seignor ___ crystal pyramid and juggling; Tony Lavely, balancing trapeze and swinging perch; . . . Nora C. Spencer, contortionist; tumblers and leapers, Castle, Saville, Johnson and ___; clowns, Al G. Field, Chas. Coville and Miller Wilcox. The show is to travel by wagons and to use two tents. The Indian games and buffalo hunt take place inside of a canvas. No top is used. The gymnastic performance is to be given under a 110 foot round top. The concert, candy stands and reserved seat privileges are owned by Al G. Fields, and the sideshow by the Ricky Bros. New York Clipper, June 21, 1879, p. 103.
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Cramer's Circus - 1868-69
1868:
The ferry boat Northern Illinois brought Cramer's Circus from Muscatine yesterday. Davenport Daily Gazette (IA), May 13, 1868, n.p.n.
Cramer's Circus. On Tuesday last, Cramer's Champion Circus gave two exhibitions in this place. It is pronounced by all who attended, to be the best circus that ever visited this State. Mrs. Geo. P. Cramer, is the most graceful equestrienne we have seen in a number of years. The speaking clown, Mr. C. L. Fowler, is jam full of original wit and mirth, and is, in our mind, the "phunniest" saw-dust jester in the west. Monticello Express (IA), May 21, 1868, n.p.n.
Cramer's Champion Circus has met with success. Mr. Geo. Cramer, whose courtesy has won him many friends; his associate, John W. Hampson, is a shrewd financier, and his handling of the trick horse Fire King show him to be a graduate of that school. Madame Cramer sits a horse with ease, grace and dignity, while La Petite Anna, child wonder has no equal. C. Le Fowler, clown and comic. His assistant is D. Jones. Mr. Joseph Key is equestrian manager. Master Dan Cross is principal rider, leaper and tumbler, also a hurdle act. Adolph Gonzales, Chilian acrobat, Richard Besmick, principal leapers and tumber. Hustin Brothers, Thomas and Frank, horizontal bar and trapeze. Wm. Carroll, leaper and tumbler. Dell Brown, banjo and bones in minstrels. Prof. Wright's silver cornet band. They show at Jerseyville, July 15th(?), from thence continue a tour through the southern portion of Illinois to Indiana. New York Clipper, July 25, 1868, p. 126.
Cramer's circus company will exhibit in this place on Tuesday. They are just returning from their summer's tour, and will go into winter quarters at Albia. Chariton Democrat (IA), October 24, 1868, n.p.n.
• 1868: online at:
1869:
Cramer's one-horse circus exhibited here on Tuesday, and the number of those who confessed themselves "sold," corresponded exactly with the number who were present. They are "small potatoes," infinitely small, and our friends of the press may expect to donate whatever favors they extend to the concern. Chariton Democrat (IA), June 3, 1869, n.p.n.
• 1869: online at:
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Crane & Co.'s Oriental Circus - 1849-50 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1849-1850
1849:
Crane's Circus. It has been our custom to "free our minds" in relation to the performances of a circus, after it has left our town. We will do so now. Crane & Co.'s Circus is one of the best we have ever attended. Many features of it are entirely novel. The opening scene - the performances of the dromedaries - the feats of strenght, the dancing of Miss Wells - the riding of Mrs. Gardner, &c., were excellent. We never saw better in any circus. Sandusky Clarion (OH), May 28, 1849, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Crane & Co.'s Great Oriental Circus. Embracing by far the largest establishment ever organized, formed of the principal equestrian and gymnastic talent to be found in either continet, consistin gof 240 mena and horses, children and ponies. Requiring 40 carriages to convey the performers, musicians, &c. The establishment on entering town will be preceded by the monster Dragon Chariot, drawn by ten camels of the Syrian breed, lately imported from the deserts of Arabia for Crane & Co. Next the fairy chariot, devoted to the conveyance of the juvenile corps, and drawn by 12 diminutive ponies, not more than 30 to 36 inches in height, driven by the celebrated Mast. Wm. Nixon, and followed by the highly ornamented carriages of the establishment. The whole forming the most imposing spectacle ever witnessed in America.
The show had: Fairy Chariot, driven by Mast. Wm. Nixon. Mammoth Pavilion, room for 5,000 spectators. New York Sax Horn band, under direction of Mr. P. Fohs. Mr. W. H. Kemp, clown. Madame Camilla Gardner, first femal equestrian of America. Mr. Dan Gardner, clown and comic singer. Master William Nixon, feats of horsemanship. Mr. Samuel Lee, feats with real cannon balls. James Nixon and his talented pupils, George and Albert; Miss Wells, danseuse; Z. J. Lipman, scene rider; W. Smith, two-horse rider; Mesdames Gardner, Johnson, Nixon, Lipman, Wells; Messrs. Bliss, Murray, Reed, Reynolds, Nagles and Miller. Southport American (Southport, WI), July 4, 1849.
1850:
[Advertisement] Crane & Co.'s Great Oriental Circus! Embracing by far the largest establishment ever organized, formed of the principal equestrian and gymnastic talent to be found on either continent, consisting of 249 men and horses, children and ponies. Requiring 40 carriages to convey the performers, musicians, &c. The establishment, on entering town, will be preceeded by the monster Dragon Chariot, drawn by ten camels of the Syrian breed, lately imported from the deserts of Arabia for Crane & Co. Next the Fairy Chariot, devoted to the conveyance of the Juvenile Corps, and drawn by __ miniature ponies not more than 30 to 36 inches in height, driven by the celebrated Mast. A. Ward, and followed by the highly ornamented carriages of the establishment. The whole forming the most imposing spectacle ever witnessed in America.
Crane & Co.'s Circus will be here on the 23d. They promise much that will attract and please, Save your dimes boys - the "camels are coming," and then there's Joe Pentland - he is a "trump" and no mistake. Athens Messenger (Athens, OH), April 19, 1850, n.p.n.
The Circuses! Today Crane's great Oriental Circus is to give an exhibition. Tomorrow, S. Q. Stokes' Mammoth Circus, will perform. Alton Telegraph and Democratic Review (Alton, IL), June 21, 1850, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Crane & Co.'s Great Oriental Circus. Embracing by far the largest establishment ever organized, formed, of the principal equestrian and gymnastic talent to be found on either continent, consisting of ___ men and horses, children and ponies, requiring forty carriages to convey the performers, musicians, &c. The establishment, on entering town, will be preceded by the Monster Dragon Chariot, drawn by ten camels, of the Syrian breed, lately imported from the deserts of Arabia, for Crane & Co. Next the Fairy Chariot, devoted to the conveyance of the Juvenile corps, and drawn by 12 diminutive ponies, not more than 30 to 36 inches in height, driven by the celebrated Master A. Ward, and followed by a highly ornamented carriages of the establishment. The whole forming the most imposing spectacle ever witnessed in America.
On entering the village the procession will be headed by the great dragon chariot, containing the company's celebrated band, drawn by 10 Syrian camels, and followed by the fairy chariot, drawn by ten diminutive ponies and the clown's car. The company will be principally dressed in superb oriental costume, and taken collectively, will present one of the most unique and magnificent pagents ever exhibited in this section of the country, and will well repay the cost of a visit. The celebrated clown, Joe Pentland, accompanies the troupe.
• Crane & Co.'s Circus in 1850. Mlle. Rosa is Rose Madigan, now the wife of James Myers, who is managing an American circus in Europe; Joe Pentland died in this city Feb. 7, 1873; T. H. Williams is before the public under the name of Signor Henrico; H. P. Madigan died in Kingston, Jamaica; Wm. Armstrong died in Cincinnati, O., Sept. 1871; John Murray is proprietor of a circus bearing his name; Signor Bliss, we believe, is living, but he has not been heard from in some years. Old bill:
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Ross Crawford's Show - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909
Ross Crawford's Show: Ross Crawford, proprietor; Jack Bristol, manager; John Bartlett, general agent; Wm. Miller, R. R. contractor; Frank Stallion, local contractor; Lena Harland, special agent; Filo Ruder, checker-up; Jum Stith, excursion agent. Roster advance car No. 1: Fred Dewey, car manager; Bill Cottrell, lithographer; John Williams, program man; Obey Page, cook. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
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Crescent City Circus
• Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860 lists William C. Manahan, owner, 1856.
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Creston City Circus - 1886 Creston City Railroad Show; Creston's New Railroad Circus & Menagerie
Creston's New R. R. Circus and Menagerie. Wanted, circus performers, lady and gentlemen artists, sideshow curiosities, concert and other privilege people, musicians, band uniforms, S.S. paintings. Will buy or lease sleeper and advance car. All privileges run by the show. Address H. Stevens, Brown's Hotel, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, February 6, 1886, p. 748.
Indianapolis, Indiana. The Creston City R. R. Show, opening in Creston, Ia., about April 10, will have 6 cages and 7 cars. They intend going directly West, making week stands in large towns. Among their people are C. C. Mathews, equestrian direcotr; Master Harris and Mlle. Lotta, riders; Kirk __ and Lon Moore, clowns; Mlle. Quinnett and Tommy Jerome, contortionists; J. Holland and 3 Lolo Sisters, aerial acts; Jackson Bros., horizontal bars. They will show 22 horses and two band wagons. The canvas is 100ft. round top with 40ft. middle piece. F. Taylor, proprietor, and H. Stevens, manager. New York Clipper, March 6, 1886, p. 804.
Charles W. Kidder will run the advertising car of the Creston Show. New York Clipper, March 13, 1886, p. 830.
The Creston City Show will not open at Creston City, Ia., until April 24, owing to the backward season in that section. New York Clipper, April 3, 1886, p. 37.
Opened at Creston City, Iowa on April 24. Going to California, making weeks stands in large towns and will take to wagons after playing San Francisco. Show will have the services of J. R. Davis if health permits. Chas. W. Kidder is boss on the advertising car. H. W. Link is general agent. Fred Gilbert is on the advance. New York Clipper, April 10, 1886, p.52; April 24, 1886, p. 85.
The Creston Show has bought nearly all the Nickle-Plate outfit, enlarging the show to twenty-two cars. They have added a Wild West and hippodrome. . . . The roster of the Creston Show's advance car No. 2: Donald McKenzie, agent; Fred Gilbert, boss billposter; Albert Smith, programmer; Wm. Conrad, George Wagner, Fred Piper, F. M. Chase, Richard McCarthy and Frank Landen. New York Clipper, June 26, 1886, p. 232.
Mayfield, Kentucky. The Creston R. R. Shows closed her night of Oct. 7 on an attachment served by J. F. Taylor, the former owner, who held a mortgaged on the same. The closure was sudden and unexpected, Mr. Taylor having been accompanying the show since the sale to the present owners, on or about Sept. 10. The show had lost considerable money in Indiana, Ohio and a portion of Kentucky, but was regaining and had a good outlook. It was the intention to play one more stand in this State (Fulton), and then jump to Mississippi. The route was fully understood by everyone about the circus, but Mr. Taylor stopped the show, the laws of the State being such that the mortagee can prevent the removal from the State of mortgaged property, even though the mortgage ___ in another State, as was the case with this one. An attempt is being made to force a sale of the property. This would prevent timely notice reaching the show people, thus preventing an attendance of bidders, and enabling interested parties to get the stuff cheap. The property consists of about twenty head of ring stock, animal cages, baggage, wagons, cars, etc. The other parties, the purchasers of the property, who gave the mortgage, have as yet given no attention to the matter, or have made no legal moves beyond retaining legal talent. New York Clipper, October 16, 1886, p. 483.
Sheriff's sale of show property at Mayfield, Kentucky, Oct. 22. Suit in favor of W. H. Harris against Bingley & Stevens Bros.' Creston Shows. Will sell at public auction on above named day ten carloads of circus property, consisting of animal cages, horses, harness, sleeping car, wardrobe, tents, seats, etc. James T. Wilson, Sheriff. New York Clipper, October 16, 1886, p. 494.
Mayfield, Ky., Oct. 26. Two days were occupied in selling the Crescent Circus. W. O. Monroe bought the circus and menagerie traps, seats and lights; J. H. Shields bought three bareback riding horses, horse tents, trappings, wardrobe, one lion and cage, one large monkey and birds, and the big sleeping car. All the other horses and wagons were sold to residents here. New York Clipper, October 30, 1886, p. 514.
Memphis, Tennessee. The F. J. Taylor Creston R. R. Show advance car, C. H. Stevens, agent and manager, was attached here 11 by creditors who hold claims with costs, etc.. The main part of the show was attached at Maysville, Ky., by F. J. Taylor. New York Clipper, October 30, 1886, p. 516.
John Nelson, trapeze artist and knockabout clown closed with the show. Advertisement for a Sheriff's sale of property at Mayfield, Kentucky on October 22. J. F. Taylor, former owner, foreclosed on the show for $4,000 mortgage at Mayfield and will force the sale of the property. The sale of the show took two days at Mayfield. The advance car was attached on October 11 by creditors who claimed $700. W. O. Monroe bought the circus and menagerie tops, seats, and lights of the Creston Show. New York Clipper, October 9, 1886, p. 470; October 16, 1886, pp. 483, 491; October 30, 1886, pp. 514, 516.
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Crocker & Co.'s Equine Show - 1886-87 Crocker's Equines; show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1886-87
Did good business at Power's Opera House in Grand Rapids, Michigan and at People's Theatre in Paterson, New Jersey. Prof. Crocker cancelled the date at the Olympian Opera House, Atlantic City, New Jersey because the stage was too weak for his exhibition. New York Clipper, February 27, 1886, p. 788; August 7, 1886, p. 327; August 28, 1886, p. 375.
Show had a "standing room only" house at Springfield, Ohio. A. E. Richards goes from the press on Sells Bros. to the advance on Crocker's Horses. Opened in Toronto, Canada at Jacobs & Shaw's Opera House the week of June 20. Closed one week of fair business at Hamilton. Good houses at Belleville, Canada on June 27 to June 29. New York Clipper, March 12, 1887, p. 818; March 26, 1887, p. 21; June 25, 1887, p. 227; July 9, 1887, p. 259.
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Cronin's - 1944 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1944-45
Cronin's Circus will be the title of the show being readied at Los Angeles, California, by S. L. Cronin, and will open the latter part of March. In Baldwin Park, Red Forbes has a crew building 15 trucks and trailers. All the wagons will be the same size to facilitate railroad loading. Baldwin Park, which had been the quarters of the Al G. Barnes Circus, will be used. From Billboard, in White Tops, February-March, 1944, Vol. 17, Nos. 3-4, p. 3.
• Cronin's Circus, Sylvester L. Cronin, owner, opened at Pasadena, California, April 8, 1944. Cronin was general manager of Al G. Barnes-Sells-Floto for many years. Show had Mark Smith's trained horses; an all-girl bareback riding act; a 14 girl ballet; Prof. Rudy's act with an elephant, camel, pony and two dogs; Castang's chimps; Winston's seals; the Three Deans, horizontal bar. White Tops, April-May, 1944, Vol. 17, Nos. 5-6, p. 23.
• An article on the 1944-45 Cronin's Circus is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 1, pp. 21-29.
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Crosby's - 1887
Charles Snyder, Andrew Grant, John Burri, Geo. Bippus and Ed Laughead, former members of the New Philadelphia Band, left here on Friday last for Toledo, O., to join Crosby's Circus. They are all good horn blowers. Ohio Democrat (New Philadelphia, OH), March 31, 1887, n.p.n.
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Crosby's Mammoth Pavilion Shows - 1889
Crosby's Mammoth Pavilion Shows opened at Watseka, Ill., July 20, to reported big business. The roster: Frank Crosby, proprietor; Tom Hall, equestrian director; George Salckey, Charlie Borden, Claude La Verne, Pete Jenkins, Aronson Bros., Abe and Pete Vell, Tommy Hall, of Hall and Williams, Billy Watson, the Bentons, Martin, Gus Benton's Silver Cornet Band of twelve pieces. Harry Hall has charge of the canvas, with eight assistants. The canvas is a 100 ft. top, with a 40 ft. middle piece. July 20 being Mr. Crosby's birthday, he was tendered a recognition by the members of the company in the shape of a goldheaded cane, in the ring, which he accepted with an appropriate speech. New York Clipper, August 3, 1889.
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Cross & LeRoy's Transatlantic Circus - 1884 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1884
Roster of Cross & Le Roy's Transatlantic Circus, Aviary and Wonders. The company was organized in St. Louis, Mo., and will travel South this Winter, opening in Moscow, Ky., Oct. 27. Ed. J. Cross and Walter Le Roy, proprietors; J. P. Fagan, general agent; E. J. Cross, manager; Walter Le Roy, treasurer; Frank Clifton, equestrian director; William James, master of transportation; Fred Johnson, master of canvas; W. J. Hennesy, chief of bill brigade; seven cars (flats), one sleeper, one advance car; steam calliope, twelve billposters. Performers: Prof. Andy Showers, wife and family, performing dogs, performing monkey, four performing stallions, one trick pony; Frank Clifton, knockabout clown; Mlle. Ida Showers, outside ascension and performing slack wire; E. Fralando, juggler; Harry Brandon, contortionist; Frank Burch, iron jaw man; Edward Burt, light and heavy balancer; Williams Family, four in number, acrobats; Thomas Nichols, principal tumbler; Mlle. Le Roy, W. Le Roy, James Riley and ten other general performers, with Prof. Morris' brass band of nine pieces. All privileges are controlled by the company. Cross & Le Roy's Transatlantic Circus. New York Clipper, November 1, 1884, pp. 517, 521, 527.
New Orleans, La., Dec. 2. Cross & LeRoy's Transatlantic Circus passed through this city Sunday, enroute to Lafourche County, La. They will return here in two weeks, and go hence to Florida. Frank Clifton, equestrian manager, informs they have done profitable business. New York Clipper, December 6, 1884, p. 596.
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Crossman & Co.'s Circus - 1887
Chas. McKeever, Chas. Snyder and Andrew Grant joined the band of this show at Detroit. New York Clipper, April 2, 1887, p. 37.
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Circo Cubano, Cuba - 1900-1901
Notes from the Circo Cubano, now touring the island of Cuba. We opened our traveling season at Matanzas, Cuba, Dec. 14, showing there one week to crowded tents. . . . Tito Ruenes is sole proprietor and manager. Mr. Ruens is a big favorite among the natives, owing to the fact he being a major in the late Cuban-Spanish war, being held a prisoner for more than two years by the Spaniards. Tomas Quevede is advance agent, Florenc?o Romero, Treasurer; Julio Ruenes, secretary; Antonio Blan?o, press agent; Ysodoro Radaga, general agent; Santiago Perez, transportation master; Ed. Y. Kuniely(?), assistant manager. We carry a 100 ft. round top, with a 50 ft. middle piece; a 40 ft. round top dressing tent, 40ft. square horse tent. We carry twenty-eight head of horses. Chas. H. Bailey is in charge, with five assistants. Andrew Lopez is superintendent of canvas, with eight assistants; Pedro Madrzo in charge of lights; Luis Suarez, boss props. We carry a native band of eight pieces. Nickolas Ceballos is our equestrian director. Peter Barlow, principal somersault and jockey rider; Mr. Maguire, with troupe of eight performing horses and his trained mule; Lew Sunlin, and his performing bull; George Gilbert, and his troupe of performing goats; Prof. Kreisel, with his dogs, cats and monkeys; Yamada's Troupe of Japs, six in number; Joe Belmont, principal leaper; M?? Avon, Spanish rings and trapeze performer; Vig??? Ceboolos, gymnast; Nicolas Cebooles, high wire act; Nola and Ducrow, revolving ladder and clowns; L?rbey Bros., horizontal bars; Lyons and Craig, comic acrobats; John Carrie, equilibrist; Barons and Cha?hito, native dancers; Dan Ducrow, Spanish talking clown. We will show all the principal towns in Cuba, the season running until July. New York Clipper, January 19, 1901, p. 1046.
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Cullins Bros. - 1894, 1897-98, 1900 (or Cullens); show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1898-1900
1894: The Bob Robinson Specialty Co. will close season at Paris, Ky. Geo. Parento joins Cullins' Circus. Bob Robinson and the rest of the company will join the Teets Bros.' Circus. Mr. Robinson will manage the show. Master Harry Robinson, son of Bob Robinson, was thrown from a bicycle recently and broke his collar bone. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.
• Information on the 1896 Cullin Bros. show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1995, Vol. 39, No. 6, p. 74.
1897:
Notes of the Cullin Bros. Ten Cen Show. We opened in Concordia, Kansas, May 6(?). We have had two blow downs, which broke things up a little. We carry twenty-seven people, travel by wagon. New York Clipper, June 26, 1897, p. 269.
The Cullins Brothers show advertised that they would exhibit at Washington, Kansas, August 18, 1897. Admission was ten cents. Bandwagon, September-October, 1997, Vol. 41, No. 5, p. 31.
1898:
Cullins Bros.' notes. We opened our season at Concordia, Kansas. Cullins Bros., proprietors and managers; Lew F. Cullins, general manager . . . Judy Amondo, equestrian director; Chas. Zaro, Harry Rhodes, Sam Copeland, Mont. Peters, Ben Cullins, Alonzo Hibner, Mabel Hibner, Mary Cullins, Ethel Billings, Gay Billings, May Heller, Copeland and Doris, Davis and Davis, Ida Jarvis, Colorado Charley, Bessie Leland, Madam May. New York Clipper, May 14, 1898, p. 178.
Cullins Bros.' notes. We are now in Nebraska. Roster: Gay and Edna(?) Billings, Hibbner and Hibbner, Harry Rhodes, Judy Amondo, Mont Peters, Ben Crider, Prof. Jas. S. Shaff, Merton B. Shaff, H. A. Neitzel, Geo. Ransom, Fred Close, San Copeland, Lew F. Cullins, Ben Cullins, Mary Cullins, Bessie Leland . . . Dave Jarvas. Colorado Charley has charge of sideshow. Will H. Davis the concert and ticket privileges. New York Clipper, June 4, 1898, p. 228.
• Information on the 1898 Cullins Bros. show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1998, Vol. 42, No. 4, pp. 37-38.
1900:
Opened at Concordia, Kansas, May 3. The Orton Family was with the Cullings [sic?] show, as was Tony White. Davie Jarvis was looking out for the transportation for the show. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
Cullins Bros. Advance: Press agent, D. G. Jarvis; Boss bill posters: C. Murphey, Joe Dawson, Earl Sage; Lithographer, Roy Colburn; Programmer, J. Heagerman. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
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Lew F. Cullins Dog & Pony Show - 1920
Wanted, for Lew F. Cullins Motorized Dog and Pony Circus. A few more peformers doing two or more acts, two clowns, comedy mule rider, feature for side show, band leader, first violin doubling brass, other musicians. Boss canvasman and other working men. Preference to those doubling brass, concert, or that can drive a truck. Lew F. Cullins, The Dalles, Oregon. [Advertisement] Billboard, April 17, 1920, p. 97.
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Culpepper & Merriweather Great Combined Circus - 1985-87
1985: Framed in Bushnell, Florida, this new show opened in Florida in March and closed its trans-continental tour in California in mid-October. Six performers put on the one-ring show. Robert Johnson was part-owner and manager and did most of the performance. Winter quarters were in Buckeye, Arizona. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, pp. 9-10.
1986: This one-ring show opened in Arizona in late February, toured that state and California through early June, when it went into New Mexico, Oklahoma and Missouri on its way to the Midwest. The show closed at Yucca Valley, California on October 13. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 9.
1987: Robert Johnson's one-ring circus opened in Arizona in February, played small towns in California in May and then played some Midwest states before heading back to the Southwest. They closed at Lordsburg, New Mexico, October 13. Bandwagon, January-February, 1988, p. 10.
• At the end of the 2000 season, Robert Johnson sold the show to Tray Key. Bandwagon, March-April, 2001, p. .
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1985-.
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Cummins' Wild West - 1906 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1904-1914
• Col. Fred T. Cummins' Wild West Show; Cummins' Wild West & Indian Congress; Cummins' Real Wild West.
Sig. Sautelle writes: "I have sold my entire interest in the Cummins Wild West Co. to Walter L. Main, the sale and everything pertaining to the deal being entirely satisfactory to me. I sincerely believe the new organization will be a success from the start. The property I have sold them is certainly fine, all of it being new in 1905(?). Their stock is as good as I have ever seen with any circus, if not the best, and the property they are adding is all brand new, so I believe it will be one of the best shows on the road, and a great deal largest than the freaternity realizes. My only reason for selling is because I want to retire permanently from the business." New York Clipper, March 17, 1906, p. 114.
At the end of the season destroyed by fire. Bannerline, July 15, 1954, p. 2.
• See brief article on the 1906 show, online in Note Sheet (Circus Historical Society), November 1944.
• Col. Fred T. Cummings, who formerly conducted his own Wild West Show, and was known among the Indians as La-Ko-Ta, is now interested in extensive oil operations in California, making his home in Los Angeles. New York Clipper, February 14, 1923, p. 22.
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Curtis' Great Roman Hippodrome - 1877
The Great Roman Hippodrome and Congress of Novelties, organized in Chicago, under the direction of George W. De Haven. Railroad contractor, Andrew Haight; contracting agent, David Rhodes, assistant agent, George Morris; press agent, Charles Forbes; treasurer, W. D. Curtis; assistant, Geo. W. Macbeth; . . . master of wardrobe, P. H. Seamon; master of transportation, Jack Regan; director of street parade, H. C. Lee . . . Riders, Mlle. Cordella, Miss Levantine Lee, Miss Ida Wallace, Miss H. C. Lee, Miss Ella Lee. Menage, Miss Helen Mason, Miss Carrie Wilson, H. C. Lee, John Barry . . . Clowns, Julian Kent, Charley Bliss, P. H. Seamon, Robert Lee. Leapers, vaulters, etc., C. C. Mathews, John Barry, Thomas Clayton, George Hicks, Lew Davenport. . . . Balloonists, Mr. Hayden and Mons. Julien. . . . [some text unreadable] New York Clipper, April 7, 1877, p. 15.
It is Dan Rhodes, not David, who is the general contracting agent of Curtis' Roman Hippodrome. The mistake was made by Charles Forbes, press-agent. New York Clipper, April 14, 1877, p. 23.
Wm. D. Curtis' Circus exhibited in Chicago, Ill., the past week, and left there for St. Louis, Mo. New York Clipper, April 28, 1877, p. 39.
The Roman Hippodrome and Circus, under management of George DeHaven, did fair business in St. Louis during the past week. Our correspondent says, "No paper on the walls, and no advertisements in the daily papers, gave evidence of bad management." New York Clipper, May 5, 1877, p. 47.
Curtis & De Haven's Roman Hippodrome is to show in Dayton, O., May 7, Springfield 8, Columbus Delaware, 10. New York Clipper, May 5, 1877, p. 47.
Correction. Our St. Louis, Mo. correspondent reported in effect that the Roman Hippodrome, which exhibited in that city, has no paper on the wall, and no advertisements in the papers. Dan Rhodes, the general agent, writes us that he had 7,000 sheets of paper posted, 15,000 programmes distributed, and 1,000 lithographs hung up, besides advertising two insertions each in five American and four German newspapers. New York Clipper, May 5, 1877, p. 47.
The Roman Hippodrome, Circus and Menagerie, managed by Messrs. Curtis & De Haven, closed a weeks' season in Cincinnati May 6. Save on several inclement days, the attendance was fair. The show is strong in its circus department, and the hippodrome and animal show serve as extra attractions. Julian Kent, the clown, was laid up all week with rheumatism. C. C. Matthews, Howard Door and son, the Lee Family, and Lew Davenport were the principal attractions. Sam Stickney proved an excellent ringmaster, and Gus Lee is an amusing clown. The riding of Mlle. Cordelia was fine. New York Clipper, May 12, 1877, p. 55.
Our St. Louis correspondent says: "When I said that the Roman Hippodrome had no paper on the wall, and no 'ads' in the local dailies, I stated facts, and Mr. Dan Rhodes' statement to the contrary cannot alter the case. The Hippodrome folks opened on the paper of another circus, whose bills have been displayed for seven weeks. The only thing they did in the way of advertising was to hang up a few colored lithographs, without name or date. Every newspaper was ignored, as it it never existed." New York Clipper, May 19, 1877, p. 63.
[Advertisement] Great Roman Hippodrome, Circus and Menagerie will appear at Titusville, one day only, Tuesday, May 29th, 1877. William D. Curtis, proprietor. Geo. W. DeHaven, manager. Chas. Forbes, advertising agent. Over fifty performers. . . . Miles Orton and sons, bareback rider and carrying act, also equestrian director and master of the circle. Mr. John Barry, principal forward and backward feet to feet somersault and trick rider. M'lle Cordelia, bareback rider. Lee Family of equestrians, acrobats and athletes, Mr. H. C. Lee, Madame H. C. Lee, Miss Lavertie Lee, Master Robert E. Lee, Master Harry Lee, Miss Rosa Lee. Miss Lavertie Lee, bareback rider. Miss Ida Wallace, rider and object leaper. Miss Rose Le Grand, hurdle rider. Mr. Sam Stickney, clown. Mr. Howard Door and son Willie, backward, forward and double somersaults from feet to feet. Mr. C. C. Matthews, in his act entitled "A home in the air." Gust Lee, clown, late from Barnum's company. Lew Davenport, champion leaper. Mr. G. H. Hicks, Thomas Clayton. Mr. Julien Kent, clown. Mr. Charles Bliss, grotesque clown, tumbler and dancer, barrel performer. Mr. Chas. Covelle, Master Robert Lee, clown only 6 years of age.
J. Field is in the advance of W. D. Curtis' Great Roman Hippodrome and Circus. New York Clipper, July 7, 1877, p. 118.
Curtis' Roman Hippodrome collapsed in Allentown, Pa., July 4. New York Clipper, July 14, 1877, p. 126.
Curtis' Hippodrome, which recently collapsed in Allentown, Pa., started for Williamsport July 10, and performed there the rest of the week. It is billed in Erie, Pa., July 16, 17, 18, Cleveland, O., 19, 20, 21, Buffalo, N.Y., one week, then throught the oil regions. New York Clipper, July 21, 1877, p. 134.
Curtis' Hippodrome again collapsed in Buffalo, N.Y. P. H. Seamon, one of the company, writes us that the proprietors pocketed all the money taken in during the week, and failing to settle the hotel bills of the company, they were turned into the street, the landlord detaining all of the baggage. New York Clipper, August 11, 1877, p. 159.
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Curtis-Gregg Fashion Plate - 1934 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1934
• Fred O. Gregg and Dennis Curtis, owners. Gregg was known as the "Human Cannonball," and also built and performed a loop the loop automobile act. Show was said to be out for a few weeks in 1934. Bandwagon, May-June, Vol. 13, No. 3, 1968, p. 20.
• An article on the Curtis-Gregg Fashion Plate Circus, is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 4, pp. 14-19.
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Curtis & Ogawa - 1895
From Curtis & Ogawa's Combined Shows and Imperial Japanese Circus. The opening of this organization will occur about May 1. Roster: Curtis & Ogawa, proprietors; C. W. Roberts, general business manager; W. T. Bryan, amusement director; C. J. Martin, properties and baggage; George Hollister, master of transportation; C. P. Metcheler, in charge of canvas; W. P. Howard, in charge of advance brigade; three billposters, two lithographers, one programers; the Condon Brothers, Briggs Brothers, Whitney and Geyer, Chas. Schimerhorn, Myrtle Vinton . . . Ogawa's Imperial Japanese Troupe of fourteen male and female performers, the five Japanese singing and dancing girls, Prof. A. Patterson's uniformed brass band and orchestra of twelve musicians. We travel in our own cars and will play towns of from five thousand population and upwards. New York Clipper, April 27, 1895, p. 119.
Roster of Curtis & Ogawa's Imperial Japanese Circus. Curtis & Ogawa, proprietors; W. Bryan, manager; Fucada(?) Kamakichi, equestrian director; A. Paterson, leader of band with twelve musicians; Hank Englehart, boss canvasman with fourteen assistants; W. H. Metzler, boss of props with four assistants . . . Ogawa's Japanese troupe; Edie Herbert, principal somersault rider; William Harding, double somersault leaper; Briggs Bros., flying return act; three Ellet Bros., aerial, bars and brother act; Sanford, carrying perch; W. Donley, single traps; Fred Briggs, bounding rope; Dashington and Barry, singing and knockabout clowns; John Stevens, four horse rider; Myrtle Vinton, female clown. Concert: Dashington and Barry, knockabout song and dance; Mollie Barry, sing and jigs; Joe Russel, Irish comedian . . . We carry a one hundred foot top with two forty foot middle pieces and a fifty foot side show top. Eddie Lawrence has the cook tent. We showed in Ann Arbor, Michigan, May 17, 18. We are touring Michigan, with Ohio and Indiana to follow. New York Clipper, June 15, 1895, p. 229.
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Curtis & Sutton's Wild West - 1888 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888
Newburg, New York - L. L. Curtis contradicts that the show was stranded at Port Jrevis, New York. He is not responsible for the debts of Edward Fulton of the American Attractions Co. The show will continue to the close of the season. Hattie Duncan joined Happy Jack Sutton's Wild West at Cuba, New York on September 10. Show failed to appear for their date at the opera house at Penn Yan, New York. New York Clipper, September 8, 1888, p. 410; September 15, 1888,p. 426; October 13, 1888, p. 494.
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Cushing's - 1885
The following circus notice is in the Silver City (Idaho) Avalanche of the 18th: "Cushing's circus visited Silver City on Sunday and remained until Tuesday morning when it moved on towards Boise City. The trapeze performance by the little boy and girl and the aerialist performance were worth one dollar, to say nothing of the extra twenty-five cents for a reserved seat. . . ." Salt Lake Daily Tribune (Salt Lake City, UT), July 22, 1885, n.p.n.
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Cushman & Bros. - 1875
The bulk of Howard N. Cushman & Bros. Great London Circus and Menagerie arrived in Oakland on Friday, and the residue is expected this evening. The menagerie alone containing forty cages of wild animals, and it requires seventy-eight horses to propel the vast establishment. There are twenty-eight performers in the circus, including fourteen women. The novelty of a double ring will be introduced in their performance. The affair will open on the corner of Seventh and Mission streets, San Francisco, on the 10th of June, and close on the 12th of July, after which several performances will be given in Oakland, commencing on the 11th of July. Oakland Tribune (CA), May 24, 1875, n.p.n.
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Dailey Bros. Circus - 1940-48, 1974 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1940-1950,1963-64, 1974-75
1940: Owner Ben Davenport changed the title of his Davenport Society Circus (1935-39) to Dailey Bros. Bandwagon, July-August, Vol. 14, No. 4, 1970, p. 4.
1942: Opened at Yoakum, Texas, March 2nd. Used a 90 foot round top with three 40 foot middle pieces. Had a menagerie tent combined with the sideshow, with 150 foot banner line. Carried two performing elephants, two camels, eight liberty horses and six Shetland military ponies. "Dailey Bros. Opened in March," White Tops, Vol. 15, Nos. 5-6 (Apr-May), 1941, p. 2.
1943: See brief information on the 1943 show, online in Note Sheet (Circus Historical Society), July 15, 1943 (scroll down).
1944: Information on the 1944 show, online in Bandwagon, June 1944 (scroll down).
• Article on the 1944 show is in White Tops, April-May, 1944, Vol. 17, Nos. 5-6, p. 13.
• Article on the 1941-45 seasons is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1970.
1948: Dailey Bros. traveled on 10 flats, 7 coaches and four stock cars. The show, painted by Tex Stuart, was red and silver. It carried 10 elephants, 2 camels, 2 zebras, 2 oxen, 2 llamas and a brahma bull. Southern Sawdust, No. 83, May, 1975, pp. 4, 6.
• Article on the 1946-48 seasons is online in Bandwagon, Sep-Oct 1970 (scroll down or use find).
• An article on the 1949-50 Dailey Bros. Circus, with subsequent Ben Davenport shows, is in Bandwagon, November-December, Vol. 14, No. 6, 1970, pp. 21-30.
1974: Ted Wilson, still trouping at age 90, was sideshow manager. Jane Randall and Frank Noel were two of the performers. Southern Sawdust, No. 82, February, 1975, p. 3.
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Daily Bros. Circus - 1985 (may be Dailey Bros.)
1985: Charles Davenport ("Termite") opened in Huntsville, Texas, March 5 and played the South until August, when it reportedly closed. During part of the season it used the title Can-Am Circus. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 8.
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Dakota Max's Wild West - 1913, 1916-19, 1922 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1912-1927
1913: Max Dakota Wild West and Trained Animal Show - Col. Sander and Dakota Max, proprietors; Wm. Sander, manager; Kid Furtell, assistant manager; Mrs. Glennis Sander, treasurer; H. F. Sander, secretary; Col. Sander, general agent; Dakota Max, contracting press agent; Col. Sander, advance press agent; Wm. Sander, press agent back with show; Mrs. Frantz, sideshow manager; Dakota Max, equestrian director; W. Sander, general superintendent and superintendent privileges; S. W. Smith, musical director; Gerald Frantz, superintendent reserved seat tickets; J. P. Frank, superintendent canvas; Louis A. Furtell, boss hostler; Geo. Namen, superintendent lights; Glen Eichorn, superintendent props; Louis Furtell, superintendent ring stock; J. P. Frank, superintendent working crew; M. S. Sandberg, 24-hour agent; Dynamite, superintendent animals; Col. Sander, manager advertising auto car; Dakota Max, announcer. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1916: Dakota Max Wild West Show. M. T. Sanders, proprietor & manager; Mrs. M. T. Sanders, asst. manager, treasurer & secretary; Earnest Lendeman, advance agent; G. Scott, contracting press agent; Edd Kennedy, advance press agent; H. F. Sanders, manager sideshow; Jack Grizzle, equestrian director; Hootis Killinger, general supt.; Mike Gazzazza [Gazzazan?], musical director; Miss D. Grizzle, supt. reserved seat tickets; F. Jones, supt. canvas; Curley Wilson, trainmaster; Jip Coleman, boss hostler; Chas. Killinger, supt. lights; Luke McGluke, supt. props; Jack Grizzle, supt. stock; Frank Kiefer, steward; Bert Cole, boss carpenter; H. F. Sanders, supt. animals; Bert Franks, blacksmith; Dakota Max, checker-up . . . Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
1917: Dakota Max Wild West Show - Dakota Max, prop.; G. Frantz, mgr.; Carlos Carreon, asst. mgr.; Mrs. M. T. Sanders, treas.; Jack Diamond, auditor; H. F. Sanders, gen. agt.; M. T. Sanders, local contractor; F. L. Smith, contracting press agent; B. Franks, advance press agt.; Rube Diamond, press agt. with show; Mexican Carlos, mgr. side-show; Texas Kid, equestrian dir.; Dakota Max, gen. supt.; Vic Eslick, musical dir.; Bill Brown, supt. reserved seat tickets; Red Hyde, supt. canvas; J. B. Frantz, trainmaster; Albert Payne, boss hostler; J. Frantz, supt. lights; Frank Kelly, supt. properties; Albert Payne, supt. ring stock; J. Frantz, supt. working crew; M. L. Wayne, boss carpenter; Julius Hinton, supt. animals; B. T. Roan, blacksmith; P. W. Bozeman, mgr. adv. car No. 1; Mrs. C. V. Frantz; supt. tickets; L. Sandefur, checker-up; M. T. Sands, announcer; three cars. Show opened at Kissimmee, Fla., February 14. Billboard, March 24, 1917, pp. 141, 143.
1918:
Winter quarters. Dakota Max's Wild West Show, Max Sanders, proprietor; Orlando, Fla. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 55.
Dakota Max has a force of men at work at Orlando, Fla., getting his Wild West in shape for the coming tour. At Orlando with Max are Mrs. Max, H. F. Sanders and Mrs. Sanders (father and mother of Max), Mrs. C. V. Frantz and G. Frantz (mother and brother of Mrs. Max), Texas Carlos, Montana Lucille, Arizona Smith and wife, and Chief Red Fox, all of whom are rehearsing new acts for the season of 1918. Billboard, January 26, 1918, p. 31.
Dakota Max's Wild West. Dakota Max, proprietor; H. F. Sanders, manager, local contractor, checker-up; G. Frantz, asst. manager, press agent back with show, announcer; Mrs. M. T. Sanders, treasurer; M. T. Sanders, secretary; Mrs. Dakota Max, auditor; T. Smith, general agent; E. Livingston, contracting press agent; Mrs. C. V. Frantz, manager sideshow; Carlos Carreon, equestrian director, supt. stock; Mrs. H. F. Sanders, supt. privileges; Tony Oliveto, musical director; Bill Wernn(?), supt. canvas; Mr. Wilson, trainmaster; Jack Smith, boss hostler; Al Brown, supt. lights; Kid Smith, supt. props; Arizona Smith, supt. working crew; Rube Livingston, supt. animals; Mrs. E. Smith, supt. cook house. Three cars. Show opened at Orlando, Fla., Feb. 12. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 64.
Carlos Carreon, known as Texas Carlos, has taken charge of the Dakota Max arena, and Tom Gonzales, from the Jess Willard Show, is overseer of stock and bronk rider. Oklahoma Gerald is announcer and bronk rider. C. Ostrander, also from the Willard Show, has taken charge of the cookhouse. Billboard, June 8, 1918, p. 28.
Roster of Dakota Max's Wild West, now in Canada with the Johnny J. Jones Exposition: Dakota Max, manager; H. F. Sanders, in advance; Claif Glenna, treasurer and rifle shot; Princess Juanita, five performing goats; Oklahoma Gerald, announcer and bronk rider; Mrs. C. V. Frantz and Miss C. Satterfield, tickets; Tom Gonzaliz, chief bronk rider and roper; Montana Ed, trick and bronk rider; Texas Low, lady rider and roper; Missouri Dot, lady trick rider; Lee Jose, trick rider and breaker; Joe Marvello and Rube Livingston, fun makers and advertisers; Whitie Fulton(?), boss hostler; Joe Alvarez, boss canvasman; Rastus and Rabbit, mule riders. The show also carries three hostlers and several canvasmen. Billboard, July 13, 1918, p. 56.
Winter quarters, Dakota Max Wild West Show, Max T. Sanders, manager; Fair Grounds, Birmingham, Ala. Billboard, November 2, 1918, p. 45.
Dakota Max, who has had his Wild West attraction with the Johnny J. Jones Exposition Shows the past season, closed when the Jones organization ended its tour at Atlanta, Ga., recently. Max's paraphernalia was taken with the Jones Shows to Birmingham, Ala., where it was stored in winter quarters. Billboard, November 9, 1918, p. 54.
1919:
Carlos Carolls, known as Texas Carlos, rough rider and lariat thrower, and Etta Myers, cowgirl, both members of Dakota Max's Wild West, were married in Orlando, Fla., week of February 9. Billboard, April 5, 1919, p. 75.
Roster of the Dakota Max Wild West Show: Dakota Max M. T. Sanders, proprietor and general manager; Madame Sanders, menage horses; California Glena, sharpshooting; Mrs. Franze, supt. tickets; Gerald Franze, announcer and arena director; Jimmie Eichez, trick rider and bronk rider; Tom Gonzales, trick roper and five horse catch bronk rider; Minnie Carry, lady bronk rider; Jim Carry, bronk rider and high jumping horse; Dot Anderson, lady trick rider; Toots Mathews, lady trick rider; Billie Mathews, bronk rider; Jim Trottier, bronk rider; Ray Kijney, bronk rider; Joe Carney, rube and clown; Go Get 'Em Red; Tony Martinez, programs and advertising agent; Mrs. Tony Martinez, supt. ushers; Bill Cox, tickets; fifteen bucking horses, twenty-two saddle horses, four menage and educated horses, three comedy mules, and a group of ponies and riding dogs. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 46.
Valdosta, Ga., Nov. 21. Dakota Max Diamond D. M. Ranch and Hippodrome Exhitition, at winter quarters at Vladosta, Ga., ir enlarging to the extent of about sixty-five head of stock and twenty wagons. . . . A. Martinez. Billboard, November 29, 1919, p. 56.
Call for rehearsal. Dakota Max Diamond D. M. Ranch and Hippodrome Exhibitions will open on December 1 and all performers and others must be on hand for rehearsals before November 17. Dakota Max, Fair Grounds, Valdosta, Georgia. [Advertisement] Billboard, November 29, 1919, p. 56.
1922:
Dakota Max's Wild West show, on wagons, played small towns through Georgia. Had a 200 foot canopy, 30 lengths of new seats, new horse tent, cook house and living tops, and new sidewall. Twelve wagons driven by four tractors were used to transport the show. Show carried 30 head of stock. Bandwagon, December, 1943, Vol. 2, No. 7, p. 10.
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Dale Bros. Circus - 1886, 1889
1886: Dale's Circus did big business at LaCrosse, Wisconsin on June 28, 1886. New York Clipper, July 10, 1886, p. 263.
1889:
Notes from Dale Bros.' Show. Jim Dale, manager, reports good business through the Cumberland Valley. New York Clipper, February 16, 1889, p. 787.
Notes from Dale Bros.' Co. The boys are making arrangements for our Summer opening with the white tents, which will occur April 30. Jim Dale met with an accident March 20. He was on the band balcony during the evening serenade when the floor gave way and he feel eighteen feet to the pavement. . . . New York Clipper, March 30, 1889, p. 39.
Notes from Dale Bros.' Show. We opened at Lebanon, Pa., April 16. Jim Dale left 18 to boom Reading, Pa., for our summer opening. Fred Weigle recently broke two ribs while dong his skating act. . . . Sagwa, the English mastiff, owned by Jim Dale, was sol to Wyoming Jack for $100. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889, p. 107.
Notes from the Dale Bros.' Show. We opened at Reading, Pa., May 11, to good business. It was our first stand under canvas. Jim Dale is at work breaking a team of broncho ponies. Lillian Dale left 29 for her Summer home at Glens Springs, Ky. Billy Augeroth rejoined the troupe 17. Harry Ashton was on hand on the opening. The roster: Wyoming Jack, Kentucky Jim, Harry Ashton, Joe Mitchell, Harry Leonne, Fred Weigle, Billy Augeroth, Ed. Slocum, Peter Martin, Lillian Dale, Old Thundercloud, Spotted Horse, White Spear, Long Dog, Bright Eyes, Falling Flower and three papooses. Healy & Bigelow will visit the company before long. New York Clipper, June 8, 1889, p. 207.
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Dale Bros. Far West - 1889 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888-89
Show opened at Lebanon, Pennsylvania on April 15. Dr. Will Dale (Buckskin Billy) was presented with a silver mounted revolver by Chas. Bigelow in August. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889, p. 107; August 25, 1888, p. 379.
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Dales Bros. - 1946, 1949
1946: The three-ring show had Chief White Cloud; Dime Wilson, clown; Pete Suto, clown, among others. Winter quarters were in Union, South Carolina. Southern Sawdust, November, 1974, p. 15.
• Dales Bros. was organized by M. J. Dalesio, known as Mickey Dales, with David and A. D. MacIntosh. Bandwagon, May-June, 1992, p. 13.
• An article on the 1948-50 Dales Bros. show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 3, pp. 13-22.
1949: Dales' Circus had 28 pieces of rolling stock and 25 horses and ponies. The big top was an eighty with 3 forties, dressing top 20x30. The animals were housed in the sideshow top with two elephants, two Russian bears, three monkeys, a lion and a black bear. Staff: Mickey Dales, manager; Nickie Dales; Harry Broadman, legal adjuster; Mr. McCoy, sideshow manager; W. McKinley Bausman, equestrian director; Lou Watson, announce; Jimmy Hurtt, band leader, a seven piece band with Jack Sweetman, drummer. Rex Rossi headed the wild west with Jeanette Rossi, Red and Marie Simpson, and Chief White Eagle. In the program were Frank Doyle, trapeze; Dutton riding act with Nellie Dutton; the Juggling Willys; the Three Hodges, trampoline; Bert Pettus, elephants and liberty horses; Joe (Hodgini) Hodges, wire; Ida Mae Kerley, acrobat, equestrienne; Wollcott's ponies; Bedell's ponies; Hoffmans, rolling globe; Miss Kerley, contortion; Bedells, acrobats; Bedell troupe, teeterboard; and others. Clowns were Harry Ross, Chas. Robinson, Jack Haines and Steve Crowe. White Tops, September-October, 1949, Vol. 22, Nos. 9-10, p. 11-12.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1918, 1948-1950, Mickey Dale, Deacon McIntosh, A. D. McIntosh, owners.
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D'Alma & McGregor - 1889
Parkersburg, West Virginia. D'Alma & McGregor's Circus showed at Belpre, opposite here, July 15.
New York Clipper, June 27, 1889, p. 321.
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D'Alma & Stone - 1893
Kennedy and Williams closed with the Denver Ed. Smith Co., and are at present with D'Alma & Stone's Circus. New York Clipper, July 22, 1893, p. 315.
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Daly Bros. Circus - 1923
Owner Tom Atkinson used this title for the first time in 1923. He played California extensively and appeared in Mexico. He probably played Hawaii in January 1924. Their winter quarters were in San Francisco. He used the Daly Bros. title again in 1927, and sold his show at the end of that season. Bandwagon, September-October, 1993, p. 21.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1923, 1927, Tom Atkinson, owner.
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Cirque D'Hiver - 1987
The show played Montreal from December 19 to January 3, 1988. Bandwagon, January-February, 1988, p. 16.
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Dalton's Yankee American - 1908
Preparations for the opening of the Carl M. Dalton's Yankee American Shows are progressing nicely and everything will be in readiness before June 1, when they open at La Crosse, Wisconsin. This show has all new equipment of tents, seats, lights and eight new wagons, making eighteen wagons, besides two automobile touring cars and a big automobile band wagon, equipped with the most improved modern manner, and while the show travels overland, it is the intention of Mr. Dalton to make it one of the best two-ring shows on the road.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1908
• Also see Lindemann Bros.
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Howard Damon's - 1908, 1909
1908: Howard Damon's Show opened promptly as scheduled at the Jefferson, O., Fair, August 18. On Wednesday, the big day of the fair, he did a tremendous business and on the other days the attendance was good. The day stands have all been fair. At the Butler, Pa., Fair, no one was turned away, yet the tents were packed to suffocation at every performance, and thousands were seated on the grass. There is no standing room with this show. When no more can be seated the doors are closed. Mr. Damon has a complete train of his own cars, on advance car and a box brigade. He carries a very neat menagerie and a long, interesting parade. The show will be t the Conneaut Lake, Pa., Fair, August 31 and Sept. 1, 2, and 3; Albion, Pa., September 4, and Geneva, O., September 5, after which three or four jumps will put him South of the Mason-Dixon line for the winter. Billboard, September 12, 1908, p. 20.
1909
Reports from the winterquarters of the Howard Damon Show are to the effect that Manager Howard Damon is as yet undecided whether the Damon Circus will open in Geneva, April 24, or ship South and open Saturday, April 17. This aggregation will use 18 cars with the show and two in advance. There will be no parade given, but two big, free exhibitions, one for afternoon and one for evening. The property that Mr. Damon has acquired is as new as any in the business and it will be known as the Gilt Edge Show of America. As it has only been recently decided to take this outfit on the road, there are not many people engaged at present. However, Joe Cole will be boss hostler and Jim Wilson will have charge of the trappings and dressing room. They are now in winterquarters in Geneva. Al. Pancost, who is known to many of the troopers as having had charge of the winterquarters at Geneva for the last eight years, will probably take charge of the train, as Pancost has had previous railroad experience. The canvas, wardrobe and harness of this show will be all new and the wagons virtually new. Billboard, February 20, 1909, p. 18.
It is undecided what date the show will open in Geneva, but it will be some time in April. A number of young horses have just been bought, among them some thoroughbred Kentucky saddle horses from "Troupe A" of Cleveland. These horses were purchased in Kentucky especially for the inauguration and were sold at auction, recently at the "Troupe A" Armory in Cleveland. Wes. F. Pike, formally treasurer with the
Hargreaves Shows, and the Frank A. Robbins Shows is here and will be secretary and treasurer for Mr. Damon. Frank B. Miller, wife and daughter, are at winterquarters practicing some new riding stunts. Mr. Miller will be equestrian director. Rube Hanley haw arrived at winterquarters and will make fun for the Howard Damon patrons, season of 1909. Doc Mintorn will handle the press back with the show. A miniature calliope has just arrived for the advance car. One of the latest moving picture machines has just been purchased and will be used to give free exhibitions with the advance car. The latest film, entitled A Circus or Traveling with a Circus, will be shown. A
car load of the best performing horses, dogs and ponies in the country have been engaged. Also a troupe of elephants which will do all new stunts. A lady will do the newspaper contracting ahead of the show, one who is a first-class story writer. Chas. Bachtel will lead
the big show band and will also furnish a lady band for the side show. The big show band will have twenty pieces, and the side show band will comprise twelve ladies. The entire aggregation will be under tbe personal direction of Col. M. H. Welsh. Billboard, April 3, 1909, p. 5.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1908, closed July 1909.
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Danby circus
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, Mr. & Mrs. G. H. Linderman [Lindemann], proprietors, 1923.
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D'Arley & O'Brien - 1886, 1890-91 (Great American; De Arley, O'Brien & French)
1886:
Fort Scott, Kansas, April 20. Darley [sic D'Arley] & O'Brien's Ten-cent Circus gave two performances yesterday to crowded tents. The Darley Sisters made a hit. New York Clipper, April 24, 1886, p. 82.
Fort Scott, Kas., April 27. Mme. De Lorne, trapeze performer, left D'Arley & O'Brien's Circus 24, to join Dr. Turner's Camp. New York Clipper, May 1, 1886, p. 102.
Roster of D'Arley & O'Brien Dime Circus. Officers: G. W. D'Arley, manager; John O'Brien, business manager in advance; Chas. Ellis, manager first brigade; Geo. Hancock, treasurer; Millard Filmore, equestrian director; Al Ferney, boss canvasman; Prof. Wm. Barker, leader of orchestra and brass. Performers: Harry O'Brien . . . Frank Hall, Harry Evantine, Watron and Gillis, Millared Filmore, D'Arley Sisters. Concert: Prof. Evans, Bloomer and Fillmore, D'Arley Sisters . . . The show will use fifty foot round top and two thirty foot middle pieces, with thirty foot round top dressing room and museum tent. Will travel by rail. New York Clipper, May 1, 1886, p. 110.
1890:
St. Louis, Missouri. D'Arly & O'Brien's Circus has been doing a fair business here. . . . New York Clipper, September 6, 1890, p. 403.
Wanted band of eight pieces for Great American Circus, write as per route: Camden, Sept. 16, Pine Bluff, Ark, 17, Brinkley, 19, Memphis 2?. Dearley, O'Brien & French. New York Clipper, September 13, 1890, p. 431.
Memphis, Tennessee. De Arley, O'Brien & French's Circus gave two performances. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 467.
The Cathcarts, Maurice and Jessie, are touring the South with the O'Brien, French & De Arley Railroad Circus. The team have signed with Dick Sutton's Circus for next season. New York Clipper, October 11, 1890, 487.
Notes from the Great American Railroad Show. This show has twelve cars, thirty-five head of horses, a one hundred and ten foot round top with three fifty foot middle pieces, and eighty foot menagerie, with two thirty foot middle pieces, a sixty by eighty foot side show with ten cages, chariots and band wagons. Ever since Aug. 13 we have been doing a tremendous business. The man in white appears every Sunday. Pop De Arley handles the cash in his old time easy manner. F.(P.?) E. Davis will handle the advance during the winter season, as he has so successfully done since the show started out. He has as his assistant S. M. Felton, with fifteen billposters and lithographers. New York Clipper, November 15, 1890, 568.
The Cathcarts, Maurice and Jessie, left the Great American Circus at Savannah, Ga., Nov. 16(?). They will make New Orleans their winter home. Maurice opened at Eugene Robinson's Museum, New Orleans, 20, and will then go to Weinger's Garden for the balance of the season. New York Clipper, December 6, 1890, p. 613.
1891:
. . . . De Arley & O'Brien's Circus has gone on the Tache. New York Clipper, January 17, 1891, p. 709.
Wanted for the Great American Circus, performers, riders, curiosities for sideshow, musicians, billposters, contractors, boss canvasman, master of transportation and train men and four and six horse dirvers. Privileges and candy stands to let to responsible parties only. Open at New Orleans Feb. 14. Take the road March 16. Address De Arley & O'Brien, Lafayette Hotel, New Orleans, La. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 763.
The Great American Circus (O'Brien & DeArley's) is on Bayou Teche, La. New York Clipper, February 14, 1891, p. 779.
Wanted, for a long season South, sideshow curiosities, circassian to handle snakes, also good magician who does Punch or talking figures. Would like to hear from Spaff Hyman, Boucher(?) and Burch. Wire to De Arley & O'Brien, Rentz's Circus, Franklin, Ind. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 357.
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Darling's Dog & Pony - 1901-05, 1909-16, 1918, 1920 also Darling & DeOnzo Bros., Darling & Woodford (Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses 1902-1910)
1901:
Wanted, troupe of well trained dogs and monkeys. Fred Darling's Dog and Pony Show, Scranton, Pa. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, June 22, 1901, p. 369.
Musicians wanted. Fred Darling, Dog and Pony Show, Windsor, N.Y. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, July 13, 1901, p. 432.
Dog and Pony Show for sale. Complete outfit. One combination sleeping, dining, baggage and stock car, 65ft. long, 9ft.(?) wide, equipped for any railroad in America; a troupe of trained ponies now on the road, eleven in number, nine spotted ones, black and white, 2 solid blacks, eight in drill, each and every pony doing specialties, one hind foot pony, walks twice around the 40ft. ring and to the dressing room. The ponies alone give one hour's performance. One bridge riding dog. One great dane leapfrog dog with pony, one high dive dog, one leaping greyhound, two large trained monkeys, one ticket wagon, one tableaux wagon, three cages, two chariots, one large Frenchband pipe organ, on wagon; 8 set of double pony harness, 25 band uniforms, 2 sets; one 80ft. round top with 40ft. middle piece; one 60ft. menagerie top, one 40ft. dressing room tent, five hundred fold back reserved seats, 10 tier high, whit jacks and stringers; one 90ft. Gale light, two 60ft. Gale lights, 12 large picture frames of ponies, one 20x30ft. Marque, plumes for ponies, and all trappings for show. Entire outfit cost $10,000. Everything new. Cause of selling, ill health. Six months' printing on hand. Route of show: Aug. 2, Hobart, N.Y.; 3, Stamford, N.Y.; 5, Roxbury, Margaretteville 6, Pinehill 7, Fleischman 8, Phenecia 9, Tannerville 10, Hunter 12. Will sell entire outfit for five thousand dollars cash. Adress Fred Darling. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, August 3, 1901, p. 492.
Darling & Woodford - 1901
1901:
At the Globe on Saturday, Darling and Woodford's Vaudeville circus. The management have secured the finest troupe of trained dogs and ponies and the troupe of performing monkeys. Manager Woodford has invested a large sum of money in the attractions and he gives one of the best street parades. Hamilton Democrat (Hamilton, OH), December 12, 1901, p. 7.
Fred Darling, one of the partners in Darling and Woodford's dog and pony circus, brought an attachment suit for $50 against his partner, Charles Woodford Monday afternoon. Constable John Brannon tied up a car and attached six monkeys, live dogs and one Shetland pony. Hamilton Democrat (Hamilton, OH), December 17, 1901, p. 2.
Charles Woodford, one of the partners in Darling and Woodford's Vaudeville circus, brought suit for $291(?) against his partner and his wife, Mr. and Mrs. Fred Darling. Eleven ponies, two turnks, great dane dog, a buggy and pony have been attached. Hamilton Democrat (Hamilton, OH), December 17, 1901, p. 2.
The troubles of the Darling and Woodford Vaudeville circus are probably at an end. The various and numerous attachment and replevin suits by the partners in the show were dismissed, in each case at the plaintiff's cost. The cases of Fred Darling vs. Mr. and Mrs. Charles Woodford, Mr. and Mrs. Charles Woodford vs. Mr. and Mrs. Fred Darling were dismissed. Hamilton Democrat (Hamilton, OH), December 20, 1901, n.p.n.
1902: For sale, dog, pony and monkey show. One car, miniature parade wagons. Will sell separately. Fred Darling, Clark St., care Winterburn Printing Co., Chicago, Ill. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, January 18, 1902, p. 1037.
Darling & DeOnzo - 1902
1902:
William DeOnzo, the famous trick jumper who has headed his own big vaudeville show for the past season, has returned to his home in Hamilton, to undergo medical treatment, and has brought the tour of the company to a close on this account. DeOnzo was recently injured in a railway wreck on the C. H. & D., and has been compelled to temporarily abandon his famous act. His brother, George, who was injured during the long run of the team in England, has also returned to his home and is slowly recovering from his injuries. After a good lay-off, DeOnzo announces that he will organize a circus for the coming summer season. Hamilton Evening Democrat (Hamilton, OH), February 12, 1902, p. 5.
The Original De Onzo Brothers have just closed their vaudeville show after a prosperous season, and have consolidated with Fred Darling, of dog and pony show fame, and will place on the road this season a circus, and travel in their own cars. They will open the season at Hamilton, O., early in May. New York Clipper, April 5, 1902, p. 129.
The Darling & DeOnzo Bros.' new show will open its season at the head of Main street on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, May 8, 9 and 10. Since the return of the DeOnzo Bros., from Europe, William DeOnzo has been working on the organization of the show which will be put on the road this season. Over thirty of the best performers of the country and several from Europe have been engaged. Added to the acts of the various acrobats engaged for the show, the wonderful and unequaled barrel-jumping act of the DeOnzos will be added. Hamilton should bs justly proud of William DeOnzo. He is a Hamilton boy and has a world-wide reputation. Another feature of the Show will be the dog and animal show of Mr. Darling with whom Mr. DeOnzo has associated himself. To the circus there will be added a menagerie, and contracts for the cages are now being closed. The show winter quarters will be in Hamilton. Hamilton Evening Democrat (Hamilton, OH), April 26, 1902, p. 10.
The Darlington and De Onzo Bros.' Circus report business flourishing through Northern Ohio. Rowles, the contortionist, and Neola, the juggler, have closed. Fred Darling has added another troupe of dogs and the band is strengthened by the addition of three musicians. Billboard, June 28, 1902, p. 5.
The De Onzo Bros., who dissolved partnership with the Darling Company at Owega, N.Y., and returned to Hamilton, O., about a month ago, have started out again on the road by themselves. The show has been greatly strenthened and many features introduced. Al Christal, the minstrel artist and vocalist, has been added to the troupe, which now includes over twenty star performers. The show will tour the Middle States, winding up the season at the Butler County (Ohio) Fair. Billboard, August 23, 1902, p. 8.
Darling's Dog & Pony 1903-05
1903: Neil Mooney of Hudson street, president of the Union Transfer company, has purchased a half interest in the Darling dog and pony show. The circus was brought to this city yesterday from Owego, where it has been in winter quarters, to await the opening May 1st. The ponies and dogs are quartered in Mr. Mooney's barn. The Darling dog and pony circus is one of the largest shows of its kind now travelling. Fred Darling was formerly th emanager of the John R. Gentry show had had charge of all the training. Mr. Darling left the Gentry show three years ago. Since then he has conducted the Darling dog and pony show. He has toured the United States and Cuba. At present the stock consists of 11 Shetland ponies and dozens of dogs of all kinds. The circus travels in its own 70 feet car and carries a tent capable of seating 1,500 people. Mr. Darling will have charge of all the training and ring management of the hsow, while Mr. Mooney will act as the business manager. Daily News (Ithaca, NY), April 1, 1903, n.p.n.
1904: Fred Darling made an unexpected and undesired early visit to a lady friend Saturday morning and in consequence of the alleged inhospitality of his reception he broke several windows. In consequence he paid a three dollar fine later in the day for his circus. Tioga County Record (Owego, NY), March 3, 1904, n.p.n.
1905:
Sig. Sautelle's and Welsh Brothers' Shows Combine. . . . Prof. Darling, with his caravan of twenty-one educated ponies and fifteen dogs, has been booked as a special billing feature in the trained animal department. Billboard, February 4, 1905, p. 17.
The Lewis Dog and Pony Show closed its season at Wilkesbarre, Pa., last week. Twelve head of the educated ponies were sold to Fred Darling. . . . Billboard, August 19, 1905, p. 17.
1909: Steben County Fair . . . Darling Dog and Pony Circus. Naples News (Naples, NY), September 15, 1909, p. 1.
1910: Mrs. Fred D. Darling's birthday was celebrated by the members of the Fred D. Darling Circus at Columbia, S. C., Nov. 8. . . . Billboard, November 26, 1910, p. 54.
1912: Fred Darling, proprietor of the pony and dog circus which bears his name, has just closed his successful season at Scarboro Beach, Toronto, Canada. The members of the H. A. Kline Shows were the guests of Mr. and Mrs. Darling at their summer home, at Scarboro Beach. Billboard, September 21, 1912, p. 58.
1913:
Brooklyn, N. Y., Sept. 22. Fred Darling, the dog, pony and monkey trainer, and who was recently taken seriously ill, while playing an engagement for the Shriners' Indoor Circus, at Boston, Mass., is now quite recovered and is at his permanent winter quarters, at 1224 Bergen st., Brooklyn, where he is breaking and training new groups. Mr. Darling has cancelled his engagement at the New York Hippodrome, owing to sickness. Billboard, September 27, 1913, p. 1.
Cora Zita, with her trained dogs and revolving pony table, has just finished a seven weeks' engagement with the Fred Darling Animal Circus. Fred Darling, the animal showman, is negotiating for a trip to South America, under the management of Roy Chandler, manager of Japanese Gardens, Buenos Ayres. Billboard, November 8, 1913, p. 16.
1914:
The Liberty Shows . . . The Fred Darling dog and pony, which has been working on big time during the winter, and closed April 25 in Brooklyn, N.Y., joined the show April 27. This show is well known and is being looked upon as one of the big features of the Liberty Shows this season. Billboard, May 2, 1914, p. 7.
Liberty Shows. . . . Fred Darling's Dog, Pony and Mule Circus goes direct to Havana, Cuba, for a six month's engagement. Billboard, November 14, 1914, p. 28.
1915: Gran Circo Pubillones. Habana, Cuba, March 5. . . . No. 2 circus, Fred Darling's dogs, ponies and mules. New York Clipper, April 10, 1915, p. 23.
1916: Fred Darling, who has spent over a score of years in the show business, has been made general manager of the Scranton (Pa.) Old Home Week and Exposition. Mrs. Darling is considering taking out the Darling Circus and Menagerie. Billboard, April 15, 1916, p. 23.
1918: Fred Darling's Dog & Pony Show are an attraction with the Greater Detroit Shows, Detroit, Mich., opening the season March 30. Billboard, April 20, 1918, p. 38.
1920: Wanted at once for Fred Darling's Dog and Pony Circus. Two or three novelty teams that can do two or more acts. Wire walkers, jugglers, trapeze, horizontal bars, clowning stunts. Anything suitable for a small circus working two and three day stands through Michigan all summer. One show at night. Can use first-class Medicine performers. Will by for cash two or three hundred reserves. Can use a few Little Wonder Lights. Six piece white or colored band get in touch quick. Fred Darling, Orpheum Theatre Bldg., Grand Rapids, Michigan. Billboard, June 26, 1920, p. 91.
1922: Billboard Callers. . . . Fred Darling, dog, pony and monkey trainer of Grand Rapids, Mich.
Billboard, December 30, 1922, p. 83.
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Dashington Bros. - 1912
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1900-12.
• Brief information is online in Bandwagon, March 1963.
J. J. Dashington's - 1912-13
1912: J. J. Dashington's Dog and Pony Vaudeville Show - J. J. Dashington, prop. and mgr.; Mrs. J. J. Dashington, treas.; Harry Chester, general agent; James Kashotka, musical director; Jacob Hoeall, supt. canvas; Victor Sandburg, boss hostler; Joe McLoughlin, supt. properties. Show opens at Moline, Ill., May 10. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
1913: Dashington's Vaudeville, Dog & Pony Show - J. J. Dashington, proprietor and manager; Mrs. J. J. Dashington, treasurer; Harry Chester, general agent; Jacob Hoesli, superintendent canvas; Vic Samberg, superintendent stock. Show opens at Moline, Ill., May 15. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
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Davene's Allied Attractions - 1886 William Davene's Company (1887)
W. E. Murdell is no longer an agent. Alice Smith had salary problems. Jules Turnour's children died last week of scarlet fever and dyptheria. His wife had a narrow escape - engaged with Davene Company. New York Clipper, February 27, 1886, p. 788; November 27, 1886, p. 578.
In 1887 organized to open in Colon, Isthmus of Panama on March 19. Had Lucy Davene, Mlle Marietta, Harry Carey, Davis' trained dogs. New York Clipper, April 2, 1887, p. 36.
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Davenport Society Circus - 1935-39
Ben Davenport's Society Circus started in 1935, using a side wall corral, two trucks and an air callope. The small show grew and continued through 1939. In 1940 owner Ben Davenport changed the title of his Davenport Society Circus to Dailey Bros. Bandwagon, July-August, Vol. 14, No. 4, 1970, p. 4.
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Davere's Circus - 1885
Davere's circus has pitched its tents on the vacant lot at the corner of Railroad and North streets for three nights. Syracuse Standard (Syracuse, NY), August 7, 1885, p. 6.
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Davidson's Wild West - 1918
Winter quarters, 1918. Davidson's Real Wild West. John W. Davidson, proprietor; Bridgeport, W. Va. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 124.
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Davidson Bros. Circus - 1927 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1927-28
Davidson Brothers' Circus, which is making Greenup its headquarters for the winter, now has 12 carpenters and a scenic painter busy building cages and doing artistic touches. The circus opens in Greenup, April 30. Portsmouth Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), January 20, 1927, n.p.n.
Animals of all descriptions, four monkeys of the small class, known as Reece monkey from Florida, an armadillo from Texas and two leaping grey hounds arrived here to take up headquarters with Davidson Brothers' Circus. Next due to arrive will be three leopards from Florida. Portsmouth Daily Times (Portsmouth, OH), February 14, 1927, p. 11.
• This was a wagon show with quarters at Greenup, Kentucky in 1927. Bannerline, February 1, 1953, p. 1.
• Owners of the 1927 Davidson Bros. Greater 2 Ring Circus and Trained Wild Animals were James and John Davidson. Bandwagon, September-October, 2002, Vol. 46, No. 5, p. 46.
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Davis & Carlisle's World's International Pavilion Shows - 1889
Opened the season on June 27 at Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. New York Clipper, July 6, 1889, p. 273. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Davis & Co. - 1890-91 (W. W. Davis)
1890:
Davis(?) & Co's Great Western Show . . . The roster: W. W. Davis, proprietor; Archie Royer, manager . . . King; Smith and Gallagher . . . Harry Frank; Wm. Webb . . . and Prof Harry Clark's silver cornet band of ten pieces. It will be a twenty five cent show. New York Clipper, May 10, 1890, p. 139.
Professional's Bureau, Circuses: W. W. Davis & Co.'s Railroad Shows. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 215.
Wm. W. Davis & Co.'s R. R. Shows, Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Wanted, good strong ring specialties, male and female riders, lady gymnasts, first class sideshow freaks . . . Two bands of ten pieces, white and colored. Address Wm. Davis & Co., ___ North Main Street, Cincinnati, Ohio. New York Clipper, June 14, 1890, p. 224
Archie Royer is still manager of Davis & Co.'s Great Western Show, and is doing nicely. He expects to take a specialty show on the road in September. New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 243.
1890: Archie Royer writes that Davis & Co.' Great Western Show went to pieces at Elkland, Pa., June 16(?). New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 295.
1891: Wm. W. Davis & Co., Circus, Museum and Menagerie. Wanted immediately, performers in all branches of the circus business, museum novelties and concert people, trick ponies, troupe of dogs, twenty shetland ponies - either to buy or hire - and a boss canvasman. The privileges are to let. Show to open on or about June 15. Address Wm. W. Davis & Co., ___ East Baltimore Street, Baltimore, Md. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 209.
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Davis & Crosby - 1859 Davis & Crosbie listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1859
[Advertisement] Davis & Crosbies' Great French and American Circus will exhibit in Alton on Monday, May 9, 1859. For one day only. To the lovers of equestrian and gymnastic sports, this will afford an opportunity of witnessing the performances of some of the most celebrated artists in the world. For particulars see large and small bills. Admission, Box 50 cents, Pit 25 cents. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. At Edwardsville, Saturday, May 7. At Jerseyville, Tuesday, May 10. At Carrollton, Wednesday, May 11. Dan Rhodes, agent. Alton Weekly Courier (IL), May 5, 1859, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Davis & Crosbie's Great French & American Circus Is Coming! Largest acrobatic corps ever combined in one company. Reorganized and embellished for the travelling season of 1859, with new and costly trappings, new horses, new performers, paraphernalia, &c., &c. J. O. Davis, manager. W. B. Carroll, equestrian director. Dan Rhodes, business agent. C. H. Farnsworth, treasurer.
• Stuart Thayer's Annals of the American Circus, 1793-1860 lists Davis & Crosby’s French and American Circus,” J. O. Davis and Orlando Crosby, owners.
• 1859: online at:
• Davis & Crosbie's Great French and American Circus was in Kansas in 1859. J. O. Davis was manager and J. Finch, treasurer. The performance had equestrians, a strong man, a stilt-vaulter, juggler, wire walker and more. More information on the show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 3, p. 9.
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Davis & Talbot - 1887
• The show went out in 1887, but did not last the season. Was sold on attachment. Bandwagon, May-June, 1968, p. 22.
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A. W. Davis - 1874-75, 1881
1874:
A. W. Davis' Great Moral Show, Monster Menagerie, Museum and Gigantic Curriculum, will start from Detroit, Mich., about May 1, with an entire new outfit. Wanted, performers with specialties, agent and boss canvasman. Address A. W. Davis, Jefferson avenue, Detroit. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, March 21, 1874, p. 403.
A. W. Davis' Great Moral Show, Monster Menagerie and Grand Olympian Exposition. Proprietor and manager, A. W. Davis; assistant manager, Wm. Platt; general agent, Chas. Platt . . . Winter quarters, Detroit, Mich. First exhibition at Amberstburg, Ontario, about May 4. New York Clipper, April 18, 1874, Supplement, n.p.n.
A. W. Davis' Menagerie is to commence a tour at New Baltimore, Mich., May 7, and will travel on the lakes for two months by steamboat Huron. Charles Ballou has rented the sideshow privilege. New York Clipper, May 2, 1874, p. 39.
J. M. French purchased an elephant during the past week for A. W. Davis' Menagerie and Variety Show, which is to make stands in the Lake Superior country, and then travle by wagons through Wisconsin. New York Clipper, May 9, 1874, p. 47.
1875:
Sadler's Great English Circus and Trained Animals will be the title of the A. W. Davis' show the coming season. A. W. Davis will be the manager, with headquarters at Detroit, Mich. New York Clipper, March 6, 1875, p. 391.
1881:
N. K. Aldrich has accepted a position in the Davis' circus band at a good salary. . . . Atlantic Telegraph (Atlantic, IA), May 4, 1881, n.p.n.
The California Circus collapsed during the past week in Wisconsin. A correspondent writes: "Al. W. Davis, the proprietor, 'jumped' the show, leaving company destitute." New York Clipper, June 25, 1881, p. 223.
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Davis' Great Overland Show, Davis' Circus - 1885, 1893-94, 1900
1885:
Among the people engaged for the Ed. F. Davis’ New Departure 25c Shows are Albert Aymar and his troupe of Walpole Island ponies, W. E. Young, Seabert and Henry, Bert Fisher, Mlle. Annette Worland, Mlle. Nellie Johnson, Little Frankie, the Jones Sisters, Tony Bullard, Fred Oxenford, Sam Wicks, Toot Cohn, Walter James, George A. Young, George Robison, Hale A. Vandercook, Wm. Thomas, Master Chas. Lovell, Prof. A. Cory and band of twenty solo performers. The Annex will be under the personal supervision of D. C. Guilford, and D. S. Ward will look after the refreshment booths. The show opens in Niles, Mich., May 18. New York Clipper, April 11, 1885.
Several men, young performers of considerable experience formerly, are with the company, practising this winter. One of the horses jumps the centripetal rope,as it is swung over and beneath his feet, equal to any little boy or girl in the performance known as "jumping the rope," and does lots of other amusing and wonderful things.
For a winter shelter and convenience, they built a wide attachment to their barn, circular withing, and with a riding ring prepared in the usual manner. In this room are such furniture and fixtures as are required for the training, wiht stoves for heating, making quite a home for men and beasts. In this room are the daily practisings.
Other large buildings are near, in which the wagons and fine coaches and coach bodys are being manufactured for the travelling caravan and circus to start in the spring. The work is of the most perfect kind and style, the painting is highly creditable and would pass for first-class work from the New York and Boston shops. The stable contain about fifty horses selected for burthen and the ring.
Castello, the leading spirit, is represented as a man of youthful appearance; intellectual, of a practical turn, the reverse of foppish and vain, takes a hand at all work, and seems to know all about it. The company expect to perform at the several prominent places of this county before they canvass upon the continent. - Grant County Herald. Semi-Weekly Wisconsin (Milwaukee, WI), March 31, 1863, p. 1.
Dan Castello, one of the best, if not the very best, clowns traveling, will crack his jokes, which ring with clearer and sharper points than those of any other humorist, and in his flying-dive leap and summerset, he stands unrivalled. The performance of the trick horse Monitor, and the evolutions of his General Bu(e)ll, are astonishing. This circus will give a grand public exhibiton at Fairplay, Wis., on Saturday, May 2d, in the afternoon and evening. Admittance - Box 50 cents, Pit 25 cents. Dubuque Democratic Herald (IA), April 21, 1863, n.p.n.
All the work and bustle spoken of as making the town lively, have been caused by the organization of a circus. Accompanied by Messrs. Castello and Van Vleck (the former one of the funniest clowns and greatest tumblers in America), the proprietors of the circus, we recently made our way to their stables at Fairplay,and took a look at the ring horses. They are the handsomest animals we ever saw. There were ten in all - most of them of a cream color, and the remainder either all white or white and black spotted. The finest animal was the trick horse Monitor, and a perfect specimen of a horse he is.
The wagons - of which there are fifteen, are all entirely new, and made of the best material. The boxes are placed on springs. The workmanship is of a character which would be hard to excel. The wagons were being beautifully painted with scrolls, figures, in gold leaf and gay colors. The band and advertising wagons were of a novel and beautiful design, the former being a splendid affair.
After inspecting the wagons the party proceeded to the building where the performers and horses have been training during the winter. There we found our Dubuque tumbler, Joe Tinkham, in his circus clothes, ready for a ride. A fine animal waw soon brought him, and around the ring at a keen jump he went, the horse having neither saddle nor bridle. Joe has learned fast. He leaps bars, turns summersaults, and cuts up all kinds of antics on his bare-backed steed. He promises to be one of the best, as he is one of the most fearless riders in the country.
The noble horse Monitor was then bro't out, and performed a variety of feats. He waltzes, walks on his hind feet, jumps the rope as gracefully as a girl, picks up his master's lost handkerchief, goes up and down stairs backward, makes a pivot of one of his forefeet and whirls about on it, and does several other things which show that he is one of the most intelligent animals ever in the arena. Another beautiful horse named Mazeppa, performs comic tricks, one of which is taking a man by the seat of his pants and carrying him out of the ring. Mr. Castello has also trained a small Durham bull named Don Juan, which performs more feats and betrays more intelligence than we thought the bovine species capable of.
The tent is a very large one, and cost nearly $3,000. Its plan of seats is entirely new to this country. The box seats are nicely carpeted, and so wide that the feet of those on the upper seats will not at all trouble the persons below them. Seats are placed in the pit. In fact every person that can get under the canvass can find a seat. The tent will be lighted in the evening by Drummond lights.
The firm of Castello & Van Vleck have expended over $20,000 in building wagons, buying horses, procuring tent, purchasing harness, etc. They employ fifty men, own sixty horses, and eighteen wagons.
Their troupe is composed of some of the best actors in the country, and is probably the best company ever in the West. Their band numbers twelve men, and their instruments, which are silver, cost over $1,000. The harness for the band horses was manufactured by L. P. Randall & Co., of Dubuque, and is splendid with its mountings of silver. The Circus will give a public exhibition in Fairpaly some time next week, and will visit Dubuque about the 10th or 15th of May. Semi-Weekly Wisconsin (Milwaukee, WI), April 21, 1863, n.p.n.
Dan Castello, with his educated bull, the charming trick horse Monitor. Look at the talent. Dan Castello, Mrs. Dan Castello, Madame Denny, John Glenroy, Burrows and Kelly, Joe and John Tinkham, Mr. Burgess, Wm. J. Smith. Dubuque Democratic Herald (IA), May 15, 1862, p. 1.
Clipper, March 14, Clipper, June 20, Clipper, July 18 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 25, Clipper, August 1, Clipper, September 5 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 19, Clipper, October 17, Clipper, October 24 (scroll down)
Jos. Oatman, who was one of the proprietors of the Castello & Oatman Show, which closed a few weeks ago, is organizing another company to take the road shortly. He is at New Albany, Ind., making final arrangements. "Uncle Dan" Castello has retired from circus life, and has decided to locate permanently at Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
• 1892: Uncle Dan Castello, who is spending the winter in Paducah, Ky., is to have an amusement enterprise on the road this season, having purchased the outfit of the defunct Castello, Oatman & Williams' Show, which went to pieces early last season. He will tour the South with a small circus and menagerie. Chas. McCurran and Leslie La Salle(?) have signed. The latter will probably go in advance. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
• 1892: T. J. Oatman and wife, with their five head of trick stock and ponies are wintering at Jeffersonville, Ind. His wife, Mrs. Lula, will ride a skillful manage act the coming season, with her beautiful white horse, Grover Cleveland. No contracts closed for season of 1892. Four first class horse acts. T. J. Oatman, P.O. Box __, Jeffersonville, Ind. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 14.
Clipper, January 12, Clipper, January 19, Clipper, February 16 (scroll down)
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Clipper, February 14, Clipper, April 11, Clipper, November 14 (scroll down)
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Professor Golden, following the closing, boarded the first train for Tulsa, where he is visiting his family for a few weeks before resuming his work on the stock. Ernest Swanson went direct to Minneapolis, where he enlisted in the Marine Band, visited his folks, and departed for camp. Willie Montaque is spending his winter vacation in the orchestra pit at one of Houston's vaudeville theaters. Walter Hodgson is waiting for Uncle Sam to advise him where to report. Oscar Goodhart slipped into San Antonio on a pressing engagement, diamond rings, etc. Vic Graham and the balance of the band went into Houston. Hastings and Nelson are at their bungalo at the winter quarters. The Rhodes Family and the Barlow Troupe are enjoying home cooking down town. Clarence Auskings and Bobby Zenero are spending the winter at the Panama Hotel. Whitey Reynolds is overhauling all the canvas in the show's big sail loft. Jack Henderson and Lawrence Crowell are rebuilding the seats, poles, etc. The show will open March 1. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 28.
Bandwagon, May-June, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 3, pp. 4-21.
Bandwagon, July-August, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 4, pp. 16-33.
Bandwagon, September-October, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 5, pp. 20-34.
Bandwagon, November-December, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 6, pp. 48-57.
Bandwagon, January-February, 1997, Vol. 41, No. 1, pp. 27-38.
Circle D Wild West & Cooper Bros. - 1914
[Advertisement] Circle D. Ranch Wild West and Cooper Bros.' Famous Shows, 2 big shows combined. Miss Juanita Lake and her troupe of Arabian stallions. 250 people, 150 horses, twenty special cars. Buffalo Joe's Real Indian Hippodrome. See the Battle of Wounded Knee. Hawarden Independent (Hawarden, IA), May 28, 1914, n.p.n.
The Scenes in the Circle will present a variety of new and interesting feats of horsemanship and other varied scenes of amusements, and Equestrian Exercises, which, together with their fine collection of Living Animals, will afford a rich and rare treat to the naturalist and lover of Equestrian and Gymnastic exercises. The Manager pledges himself that there shall be nothing wanting on his part to render the Exhibition both agreeable and interesting. Also that there shall be nothing introduced in the performance that can offend the ear of the most fastidious, but the whole will be conducted with the utmost order and decorum. Commodious seats will be erected for the accommodation of visitors. Ladies and Juvenile visitors always have the preference. For a list of the Animals contained in this Menagerie, and description of Equestrian Performance, see bills at the Hotels.
There will be an Exhibition at the same time and place, of rare specimens of the fine Arts, the richest, rarest and most extensive collection of Paintings, ever offered to an American public, representing Burning Mountains, Conflagrations, Landscapes, Waterfalls, Battles, Cities, Buildings, Shipwrecks, &c. In addition to the Paintings, there will be exhibited a collection of Asiatic Serpents, consisting of the immense Anaconda or Terror of Ceylon, the Boa Constrictor or Strangling Serpeni of Java, the Pomboo or Python from Madras, also, that extraordinary Reptile, the Amphis Beana, from Calcutta, the connecting link between the Serpent and Worm. Admission 25 cents. Entrance to this splendid Exhibition from the inside of the Menagerie and Circus Pavilion. Adams Sentinel and General Advertiser (Gettysburg, PA), August 13, 1839.
On the road, circuses: Clement's, Johnstown, Pa. May 30, South Fork June 1, Lillie(?) Station, 2, Ebensburg 3. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
From Cole's Circus. Our season opened May 12 at Jamestown, N.Y. The roster: Prof. and Mme. King . . . Kid Carr(?), Swift(?) Bros., A. H. Gump(?), ring master; director of orchestra, Carl Barth(?); leader of band . . . and Culbertson Bros., proprietors and managers. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
"Circus Sold at Auction. Corry, Pa., Jan 29 - The sale of the Cole Brothers' circus here Friday at public auction attracted a crowd of over two hundred of the most prominent people in the circus business. . . . Miller Brothers of the 101 Ranch Wild West, were very prominent in buying of stock and cars and next season will have sufficient railroad equipment to put out the largest of the two train shows." Evening Observer (Dunkirk, NY), January 29, 1910.
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• An article on the Cole Bros. winter quarters in Louisville, Kentucky, 1941-48, is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1980, Vol. 24, No. 5, pp. 24-26.
• Article on the 1943 Cole Bros. show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1977, Vol. 21, No. 6, pp. 4-17.
• An article on the 1945 Cole Bros. show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 4, pp. 4-16.
• Articles on the 1946 Cole Bros. show are in Bandwagon, November-December, 1978, Vol. 22, No. 6, pp. 16-32, and in Bandwagon, July-August, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 4, pp. 4-9.
• An article on the 1947 Cole Bros. show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1979, Vol. 23, No. 4, pp. 4-16.
• An article on the 1948 Cole Bros. show is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1979, Vol. 23, No. 6, pp. 4-17.
• An article on the Cole Bros. winter quarters in Ojus, Florida, used from mid October 1949 to April 1950, is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1980, Vol. 24, No. 6, pp. 36-38.
• Articles on the 1950 Cole Bros. are in Bandwagon, March-April, 1981, Vol. 25, No. 2, pp. 4-16, and in Bandwagon, May-June, 1981, Vol. 25, No. 3, pp. 4-13.
• An article on the 1947-1988 James M. Cole Circus is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 3, pp. 21-34.
• An article on the 1948 James M. Cole Circus is in White Tops, March-April, 1948, Vol. 21, Nos. 3-4, p. 15-16.
• A brief article on the 1943 circus, in White Tops, June-July, 1943, Vol. 16, Nos. 7, 8, 9, p. 11.
- Songster images courtesy of Bob Thomas.
"Cole & Lockwood's circus arrived here last Wednesday morning in the rain, paraded at noon in the rain, showed during the rain, and departed early on Thursday morning in the rain. They gave two good exhibitions to a crowd of people, regardless of the rain. Their show is first-class of its kind (a genuine circus), and one thing especially commendable is the absence of vulgarity ... They have an excellent band, fine horses, and first-cass performers. They have hadbutfive pleasant days since they started out and but one ideal show day. They expect to visit Morris again in two years." Morris Chronicle, Morris, New York, June 6, 1894, n.p.n.
The beautiful gymnasts, the Marietta Sisters. Three great bareback riders, M'lle Caroline, premier equestrienne for Cirque Napoleon, Young Leon, boy rider, Mr. Miles Orton, equestrian, with his infant son, Claude. And a full troupe of equestrians, gymnasts, clowns and others. Two performances daily, at 1 and 7 o'clock p.m. Admission 50 cents, children under 10 half price. Corydon, Saturday, July 22d. Weekly Citizen (Centerville, IA), July 15, 1871, n.p.n.
At Hagerstown, Thursday, Sept. 4. Coming on 3 Special Trains, W. W. Cole's Famous New York and New Orleans, Circus, Museum, Menagerie & Congress of Living Wonders. 7th Annual Tour of the continent by rail. W. W. Cole, sole proprietor.
The Two Giants! Capt. M. V. Bates and wife. The tallest man and woman in the world. Each are 8 feet high (lacking half an inch). Combined weight over half a ton. One ticket admits to circus, menagerie and giants.
Living Alaska oceanic lions! Baby elephants, baby lions, baby tigers, the walrus, herd of elephants, baby dromodaries, baby camels, baby sea lions, den of monster serpents, trained and performing wild beasts, baby leopards, baby monkeys. A sea elephant, drove of bactrian camels, &c. 100 circus performers, 20 beautiful lady artistes, 20 select musicinas, 1000 wondrous beasts, 30 Lilliputian ponies, 6 funny clowns. 35 cages, dens and corral of wild beasts.
Just added, the six trick stallions! 3 blacks, 3 greys. They waltz in 3 couples. They march erect on their hind feet. The drill like soldiers. They form tableax. One jumps over the backs of the other five. They see-saw upon a board. Coming on my own railroad cars. All railroads run to and from this show, at cheap rates to all. Admission 50 cents. Children, 25 cents. Hagerstown Mail (Hagerstown, MD), March 5, 1880, p. 2.
James Robinson, rider; Mrs. Frank Gardner; Mrs. T. B. McIntyre, bicycle rider; Mrs. Harly Martell; Mrs. George austine, skater; Helen Dalvin; George Dunbar; Rentz & Richardson; John Murtz; Leon; Martell Bros.; Wm. Organ; George Conklin; Ernest Cooke; The 12 Arabs; Mr. Frank Gardner; Mr. T. B. McIntyre, bicycle rider; Harry Martell; George Austine, skater; Addie Austin; Bareth & Howard; Kennedy & Casselli; Three Livinstons; Nestor & Venoa; Van Zandt Bros.; Delhauer; Henry Cooke; Pete Conklin; Prof. Freyers dogs and goats. Six performing elephants were carried and in this six was the famous Samson. Another feature was eight trick stallions. Banner Line, August 1, 1958 (No. 267), p. 6. Information should be checked with additional sources
Did a season with Lee Bros Circus [Bob Atterbury] as a youngster in 1941, and a season with Stevens Bros Circus in 1946. Also worked on Clyde Bros Circus in the late 1940’s, and did 2 winters with James M. Cole 1n 1948 and 1949. Also worked with the Jay Gould Circus on Christmas shows and 2 summers before going in the Navy in 1950. Jay’s granddaughter was the swinging ladder performer, and we married each other. In a few months we will have been married for 60 years. Did a lot of performing for Williams and Lee Attractions out of St Paul, MN, mostly at Rodeos and county and regional fairs. - from Leo "Sonny" Albrecht
Wintering in Kansas City . . . Jack Schiller, Dick Schiller and the Colemans, of the Cook and Barrett Show . . . Billboard, February 10, 1906, p. 20.
It is very dubious about the Cook Bros.' Show going out this season. The show is in quarters at Trenton, N.J., in the stables of the Consumers' Ice Co. All the wagons are just as they were pulled in last summer when the show closed (they have been out in the open all winter). However, they are all in first-class shape, barring a coat of paint. Billboard, March 16, 1918, p. 29.
D. Clinton Cook, of Cook Bros.' Show last year, is not going out until next season. He was already framed for a wagon show, but at the last minute decided not to venture now. Billboard, April 20, 1918, p. 30.
Among the superb attractions which distinguish the Royal Circus is the magnificent ecole de manege, by the brilliant and dauntless artist, Mary Ann Cooke, on her beautiful manege horse Jupiter. La Petite Laura, on horseback as the Rose Girl. Walter Cooke, on his wild bare-backed steed. Young Lester, the champion contortionist of Europe and America. M. Maddric, will introduce his little sons, with the performing ponies, Cherry and Fair Star.
A matchless act on two horses by Mary Ann Cooke and Maurice Millis. Prof. Charles and his pet leopard Mazeppa. The astonishing double summersault performers, besides many other great acts. The performance will be intersperced by the gymnastic and loquacious drolleries of the court jester, Geo. Constible. The entertainment will commence with a grand hippo-dramatic spectacle, and conclude with a burlesque equestrian pantomime. Prof. Reubens will form a procession in his splendid chariot, and drive a mammoth troupe of beautiful horses, accompanied by a superb band of music. Will enter the town at 10 a.m. on the day of exhibition. The Sable Harmonists will give a grand concert in the same pavilion, immediately after the conclusion of the circus performance. Cedar Falls Gazette (IA), June 13, 1860, n.p.n.
Out to the public with one stupendous circus and menagerie, embracing the talent of the equestrian world and the extraordinary feats and performances of the old trapper and wild beast subduer California. All under one tremendous pavilion, capable of seating five thousands persons, and only twenty-five cents admission. Niblo's Gardens, New York - Astley's Amphitheatre, London - Barmnum's Grand Zoological Pavilions - all deserted to form the immense travelling combination of moral and instructive exhibition.
Court jester, Joe Pentland. The divine Zoyara. The wonderful Hanlons - six in number, whose startling feats have kept New York entranced and wonder stricken. The great Robinson, the champion bare-backed horseman of the universe. Mons. Charlton - Mons. Duvernay - with the immense troupe from Niblo's Garden. The beautiful mare Zaidbe, performed by Zoyara - the idolized Cooke's great performing ponies Prince & Diamond, with the great auxiliary corps, rendering this the most wonderful as well as complete and expensive establishment in the world. C. W. Fuller, agent. Newport Daily News (RI), August 11, 1860, n.p.n.
Clipper, January 18, Clipper, January 24, Clipper, February 1 (scroll down)
Clipper, February 8 (scroll down)
Route, Coop & Lent Motorized Circus: Laporte, Ind., 29; South Bend 30; Goshen 31; Warsaw, June 1; Wabash 3; Huntington 4. Billboard, June 1, 1918, p. 47.
Bandwagon, November-December, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 6, pp. 16-29.
Bandwagon, January-February, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 1, pp. 30-40.
Bandwagon, March-April, 1994, Vol. 38, No. 2, pp. 22-32.
There were a large lot of serviceable mules which sol from $90 to $135 apiece. They were a very good lot. Eight cages sold at an average of $35. Several light wagons and buggies went off cheap. The Cardiff giant was big off for some beergarden by Mr. Wolfinger at $35. The stuffed whale, about thirty feet in length was bid off by Mr. McDonald at $42 for another party.
Lebanon Daily News (PA), April 11, 1876, n.p.n.
Another feature with this inimitable concern will be the three double summersets, performed by Jerry Worland, H. A. Gardiner, and Master Frank Starck, the youngest performer that ever accomplished this most daring feat. The amusement will be enlivened by three popular clowns. Buck Gardiner, the American clown, Julien Kent, pupil of the great jester, Dan Rice, and Fred Myers, European clown. Signor Castello, the far-famed globe and trenca performer. Masters Frank & William, J. Morgan, W. Carter and J. Barker will appear in the animated scenes of tumbling, vaulting & leaping.
The doors will open at 2 and 7 p.m. Performances commence half an hour afterwards. Admisstion - Box 50 cts.; Pit 25 cts. Children under ten years half price to box. J. F. Sutton, agt. Gratuitous exhibition. Grand ascension upon a single wire, by a lady, previous to the commencement of the afternoon show, and immediately before opening the doors of Cooper & Myers' Circus of all nations. Madame J. Worland will make a terrific ascension upon a single wire, extending from the ground 350 feet to the head of the circus flag staff. Remember this is free! Will also exhibit at Elkhorn, Monday, May 31, Janesville, Friday, May 28. Whitewater Register (WI), May 22, 1858, n.p.n.
Prof. Fryer has some educated dogs which are well trained as to hold a court, try and execute one of their number, and go through other mock performances. An Indian show is among the novel features. War dances, and all the scenes of the chase and the camp are presented. The chorus of fifty voices, the jubilee singers, the performing lions, the trained hyenas, the Japanese art gallery, the pony circus, the curiosities in the menagerie cluster about the arenic show. Janesville Gazette (Janesville, WI), May 12, 1880, n.p.n.
While Mr. Coup has a fair show this year, it does not compare with his amusement enterprise of 1881, which was the best ever organized. Last year there was glint, glitter and glamour in every wagon and every van, and the parade was equal to the performance of an ordinary circus; but this year there is greater space between the wagons. Mr. Coup cannot be blamed, however, for taking a show off the road that did not pay expenses, as it is understood he lost a great amount of money last year. The ring peformance this afternoon was above the average, and the great failing off was less noticeable ther than on the street. All the best features of the show have been retained, but much of the bigged [sic?] part of the great show is missing. Atchison Globe (Atchison, KS), January 10, 1882, n.p.n.
• Information on the 1890 W. C. Coup's Equescurriculum show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1992, Vol. 36, No. 1, p. 54.
Clipper, July 11, Clipper, July 18 (scroll down)
Clipper, January 16 (scroll down)
The mammoth pavilion, under which the performances take place is the largest ever constructed, affording ample room for the accommodation of 5000 spectators. This company can boast of the best band of music ever attached to any exhibition. It is styled the New York Sax Horn Band, and is under the direction of Mr. Fohs.
Mr. W. H. Kemp, universally acknowledged as the best clown in America, is attached to this establishment. The performance will commence with the magnificent oriental pageant of The Arab Slave, introducing ten camels, with the ladies, children, and ponies of the company. Madame Camilla Gardner, the first female equestrian of America, will appear in some principal portion of each performance. Mr. Dan Gardner, the great clown and comic singer, will contribute his drolleries to the entertainments. The very popular youthgul equestrian, Master William Nixon will appear in his wonderful feats of horsemanship. Mr Samuel Lee, the Alcides of America, will appear in his extraordinary feats, with real cannon balls.
The performances of the beautiful twin ponies, Damon and Pythias, form a most pleasing divertisement. In addition to these features, the various performances of Mr. James Nixon and his talented pupils, George and Albert, Miss L. Wells, the beautiful danseuse, Mr. Z. J. Lipman, the great scene rider. Mr. W. Smith, the celebrated two horse rider. Mesdames Gardner, Johnson, Nixon, Lipman, Wells, Messrs. Bliss, Murray, Reed, Reynolds, Nagles, and Miller, will be introduced in each exhibition. The whole will conclude with the burlesque sporting scene, entitled "The Pony Races," introducing the graphic style all the sports, shows, frolics and incidents familiar to the frequenters of the Long Island Course, N. Y., together with the great match race between four ponies. Also four other pony matches, and a grand hurdle race with six ponies rode by six juvenile equestrians.
This extensive establishment will exhibit at Milwaukee about the 1st of July, and visit all the principal towns in Wisconsin during the above month. Due notice of the exact time will be given by the regular agents. Milwaukee Sentinel and Gazette (WI), May 29, 1849, n.p.n.
The mammoth pavilion under which the performances take place, is the largest ever constructed, affording ample room for the accommodation of 5,000 spectators. This company can boast of the best band of music in any exhibition It is styled the New York Sax Band
Will perform at Athens, O., on Tuesday, April 23d. Doors open at 2 1/2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Admission 25 cts. Children under 10 years, 15 cents.
The managers take pleasure in announcing that an engagement has been made for the season with the beautiful and gifted M'lle Rosa, the first female artist in Europe and America. Also, Joe Pentland, the clown of all clowns; Mr. H. P. Madigan, the great equestrian; Mr. H. Gardner, the celebrated dramatic horseman; John Shay, the Eastern juggler; Mr. ___, the trick clown; Sig. Bliss, the contortionist; Messrs. Murray and Reed, the acrobatic artists; the beautiful twin ponies, Damon and Pythias. Also the pet pony, Don Juan, who will dance, waltz, and perform several other wonderful feats. Also, following the above performance of Don Juan, will be presented the most wonderful exhibition ever introduced into the ring, and now for the first time offered to the public, entitled The Charioter's Dilema. The grand object of introducing the camels, is to enable the managers to produce with ample effect, the magnificent Oriental Pageant of the Arab __, or the Sultan's Halt in the Desert. Each entertainment will conclude with a most laughable comic afterpiece. Athens Messenger and Hocking Valley Gazette (Athens, OH), April 12, 1850, n.p.n.
The Mammoth Pavilion, under which the performances take place, is the largest ever constructed, affording ample room for the accomodation of 5000 spectators. This company can boast of the best band of music ever attached to any exhibition. It is styled the New York Sax Horn Band, and is under the direction of M. P. Fohs. Will perform at Alton, on Friday, June 21st. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock, p.m.
The managers take pleasure in announcing that an engagement has been made for the season, with the beautiful and gifted M'lle Rosa, the first female artist in Europe and America. Also, Joe Pentland, the clown of all clowns; Mr. H. P. Madigan, the great equestrian; Mr. H. Gardner, the celebrated dramatic horseman; John Shay, the Eastern juggler; Mr. Liming, the trick clown; Sig. Bliss, the contortionist; Messrs. Murray and Reed, the acrobatic artists; the beautiful twin ponies, Damon and Pythias; Alan, the pet pony, Don Juan, who will dance, waltz, and perform several other wonderful feats. Also, following the above performance of Don Juan, will be presented the most wonderful exhibition ever introduced into the ring, and now for the first time offered to the public, entitled the Charioteer's Dilemma. The grand object of introducing the Camels, is the enable the managers to produce, with ample effect, the maginificent Oriental Pageant of the Arab __, or the Sultan's Halt in the Desert. Each entertainment will conclude with a laughbable comic afterpiece. Alton Telegraph and Democratic Review (Alton, IL), June 21, 1850, n.p.n.
Advertisement: Crane & Co.'s Great Oriental Circus. 200 Men and Horses, Children and Ponies, Requiring 40 carriages to convey the Performers, Musicians, &c. Dragon Chariot, drawn by ten camels. Fairy Chariot, devoted to the conveyance of the Juvenile Corps. and drawn by 12 diminutive Ponies. M'lle Rosa, the first female artist in Europe and America; Joe Pentland, clown of all clowns; Mr. H. P. Madigan, the great Equestrian, Mr. H. Gardner, celebrated Dramatic Horseman; Mr. Liming, trick clown; Sig. Bliss, contortionist; Messrs. Murry and Reed, acrobats. Pet Pony, Don Juan, will dance, waltz. The Charioteer's Dilema, the grand object of introducing the camels, to enable the Managers to produce the Oriental Pageant of the Arab Slave, or the Sultan's Halt in the Desert. Tioga Eagle (Wellsboro, PA), September 30, 1850.
Crane & Co.'s Great Oriental Circus will perform June 18 and 19, corner of Washington avenue and Ninth street. Equestrian manager, Mr. John Shay. Among the talent is Mlle. Rosa, female equestrian; Joe Pentland, U.S.A. clonw; T. M. Williams, herculean and cannon-ball performer; H. A. Gardner and H. P. Madigan, riders and gymnasts; Wm. Armstrong, A. F. Liming, J. Murray, D. Reed(?), Sig Bliss, etc. Program: Grand entree. La Tranca, T. Williams, act of horsemanship by Master Armstrong, grand carpet leaps by the company led by H. Gardner; twin ponies Damon and Pythias; Don Juan and Diamond, introduced by J. B. Shay; act of changes by M. A. Gardner; posturing by Liming and Bliss; principal act by Mlle. Rosa; slack rope by Mr. Liming; pageant of the Sultan's Halt in the Desert; cannon-ball feats by T. H. Williams . . . New York Clipper, April 14, 1877, p. 21.
Attractions daily, free of charge: Steam Piano. M'lle Gracia, wire walker, ascension on a wire from the ground to the top of the center pole; Mons. Julien, aeronaut (formerly partner of the late Donaldson), will make a grand balloon ascension. A military band of twenty-six performers, leader Mr. Norman Colson. Admission 50 cents, children under 9 years of age, 25 cents. Also perform at: Warren, May 24. Tidoute, May 25. Titusville Herald (PA), May 24, 1877, n.p.n.
Some of the male members of the D'Alma & Stone Circus crossed bats with the Patton, Pa. baseball club last week, ___ them by a score of 15 to 4(?). The D'Alma-Stone Battery were Lon Livingstone and Joseph Kennedy. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
Morris and McCune(?), triple bar performers, have signed with the Guy Bros.' Minstrels. They are now with D'Alma & Stone's Circus. New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 365.
The roster: Carl M. Dalton, manager; W. F. Lindeman, equestrian director; Prof. N. G. Tabor, bandmaster; I. M. McVickers, press agent; James Murphy, principal clown; "Doc" Young, boss canvasman; Wm. R. Smith, boss property man; Hal Brown, chandelier man; the Tossing Lavernes, equilibrists; Weber Brothers, Theo. and Bill, double trapeze, contortion and Roman rings; the Burckhart Family, aerial acrobats; the Lindemans, Will and Millie, the world's greatest slack wire, bicycle and unicycle riders; Lillie RaRoe, contortionist and equilibrist; the Aerial Baldwins, Jacks and Edna, premier novelty gymnasts; Albert Lindeman, balancing trapeze and sensation aerial artist; Mme. LeGrand, breakaway swinging ladder; the Three Wilsons, comedy acrobats and bar performers; Fred Wolfgren and "Spike" Mahanessy, revolving ladder; Dalton's Troupe of Dogs and Ponies and "Gargo," the educated giraffe. The publicity department will be under the management of H. S. Hoag, assisted by an able corps of billposters. Billboard, May 9, 1908, p. 222.
The principal features of this model company constitute a full and efficient corps of equestrians, acrobats, herculeans and dramatists, culled from the stars of both Europe and America. Among these are the following celebrities: Mr. W. B. Carroll, the best general performer and six horse rider in the world. Madame Carroll, the queen of equestriennes. Madmoiselle Marie, the ne plas ultra of all female equestriennes, the beautiful rider and danseuse. Madmoiselle Antoinette, the invincible wire performer will ascent a wire 300 feet in lenght on the outside of the canvass, previous to the afternoon performance.
Mousieur, J. Worland, the great equestrian and the most astonishing leaper and vaulter in the world. Signor Wolfington, the herculean equilibrist and stilt performer. Mr. W. Armstrong, the accomplished equestrian and juggler. Master Charlie Carroll, the wonder of the age. Mr. W. B. Carroll, with Charlie and Willie, in the classic sports of the arena. Two great clowns, Buck Gardner, the Southern jester, comic delineator and double somerset man. Geo. Knapp, the univesal favorite, and Farmer's Almanac of fun.
Will exhibit at Decatur, on Thursday August 25, '59. At Clinton, Wednesday, 24. At Monticello, Friday, 26. Admission, Box 50 cents. Children under 10 years, 25 cents. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Illinois State Chronicle (Decatur, IL), August 18, 1859, n.p.n.
Clipper, May 7, Clipper, May 28, Clipper, June 29 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 9, Clipper, September 24, Clipper, October 8 (scroll down)
Harry Moulton and Dan Degarino, gymnasts, have doubled up and join Ed. F. Davis' Overland Circus at Niles, Mich., May 15. New York Clipper, May 16, 1885, p. 136.
Charles L. Davis, manager of Davis' circus, was lying on a bed in a room of the Southern Hotel, New Orleans, on last Wednesday night. His wife and her nephew were in the room at the time; he was playing with two pistols, when one was suddenly discharged, shooting Mrs. Davis in the breast. Her nephew ran out for assistance, and when the proprietor entered, he found Mrs. Davis lying dead upon the bed, and her husband was bending over her. He went to pick up the revolver that was lying beside her, but Mr. Davis seized it, and shot himself before the proprietor could interfere. Mrs. Davis was a very beautiful lady, and she and her husband always seemed to live happily together; yet some doubt is expressed as to whether the shooting was really accidental. Indiana (PA) Weekly Progress, December 3, 1885.
New Orleans, Nov. 27. - Testimony taken by the coroner in the Davis double tragedy shows the killing of Mrs. Davis was purely accidental. Craft, the nephew, who was the only witness of the shooting, says Davis was extricating cartridges from a revolver, when it exploded, and a number of loaded shells found on the bed confirm this, and the missing revolver was found on the bed under the dead woman's body. . . . Three thousand dollars worth of diamonds and other valuables were found in the room, showing that Davis was not in reduced circumstances as reported. Both were from Cincinnati where they have relatives. The bodies will be sent to Maysville, Ky., where Davis was born. Newark (OH) Daily Advocate, November 27, 1885.
1893: Wanted, for season of 1894. F. E. Davis' Mammoth Empire Shows, Museum, Menagerie and Roman hippodrome, riders, gymnasts, acrobats, wire walkers, rope balancers, aerial artists, concert people, etc., boss canvas man, boss hustler [sic], six and eight horse drivers, chandelier man, two and four horse chariot drivers, Roman standing riders, etc. A long season. Show opens in February. Address F. E. Davis, No. 162, Paydras(?) Street, New Orleans, La. New York Clipper, December 23, 1893, p. 681.
1894:
F. E. Davis, proprietor of the "Empire Show," shipped several carload of circus material from Chicago to New Orleans, where the show opens about Feb. ??. New York Clipper, February 17, 1894, p. 803.
The F. E. Davis Mammoth Empire Shows gave their opening performance at Algiers, La., March 1. Roster: F. E. Davis, sole proprietor and manager; Charles Andrews, business manager; Harry Show(?), treasurer; Chas. O'Dell(?), equestrian director; A. J. Willis(?), general railroad contractor; Harry Lee Gendre(?), band master; Frank Shaffer, superintendent of privileges; Max Arnold, superintendent of canvas; Frank La Vigne(?), boss hostler; O. H. Parsons, cook; J. T. McLain, charge of side show; Frank Rose(?), lecturer of side show . . . Performers: William Melrose, principal comersault and jockey rider; Mohring Bros., acrobats, principal leapers and tumblers; Frank V. Miller and wife, jockey and double carrying act; R. J. Oatman, trained horses, ponies and comic mules; Mme. Lulu, trick horses and ponies; Madeline Murray, menage rider . . . Hattie Scott, flying rings; Mollie Le Gendre, juggling on slack wire; the Richards, aerial performers . . . Mr. O'Brien, Irish clown; Chas. W. Odell, four horse rider; Mme. Verona, bareback equestrienne; Daniels and Forrest(?), flying act; Skerbeck Family (seven in number), aerialists . . . and Willie Sarabo, Arabian contortionist. The band is composed of the following musicians: Prof. Harry Le Gendre, band master . . . Chas. Carroll, J. Young . . . Chris Schley, A. Hebert, C. J. Le Gendre, L. J. Troue, J. Eckstein, J. J. Kuhn, H. Collins . . . C. Smith and A. Brandon. Side show as follows: La Belle Pauline, Sig. Skerbeck, Mollie Cavelier, Mme. Andress, Nero man ape, and Lilile Montrose(?). The side show is under the supervision of Prof. Chas. Andress; James Rourk(?) in charge of the elephant, Empress. Hippodrome people: Ollie Menard, Misses Cavelier, Scott and Richards, jockey riders; O'Dell and Mme. Nelson, charioteers, and Edwards, Williams and Fields(?), standing races. It has rained every day since our opening, but business continues good. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
Circuses, on the road: F. E. Davis, New Orleans LA, April 2-7. New York Clipper, April 7, 1894, p. 66.
Manager Sprague, of the Empire Show Printing Co., departed for New Orleans, La. ?, to rescue their elephant Empress, from the hands of the sheriff. E. F. Davis' Empire Circus was attached in that city on that date, and the elephant was part of the paraphernalia. New York Clipper, April 14, 1894, p. 83.
On the road, circuses: F. E. Davis, Jackson TN May 3-8(?), Cairo IL 7, 8, . . . East St. Louis 10-12. New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 130.
The F. E. Davis Show, after closing at New Orleans, La., for two weeks, for the purpose of reorganizing, opened again in that city April ??, with the following people: F. E. Davis, proprietor and manager; Harry Shaw, treasurer; T. J. Oatman, equestrian director, with trick horses, ponies and mules . . . and William Mohring, principal tumbler and acrobats . . . Master Harry Mohring . . . Madeline Murray, horse "Monarch(?)," and trick menage . . . Prof. Chas. Andress, in charge of sideshow. . . . New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.
1900:
Ed. F. Davis' Big 10-20c Show. Proprietor and manager, E. F. Davis; General agent, DeForest Davis; Equestrian director, Sam McFlinn; Band master, Banks Baird; Master of canvas, Chas. Watson; Master of horse, Dr. Fowler. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
With the Ed. F. Davis Shows - three La Rue Brothers; Welcome & Forepaw; Bernard Orton; Moore & Gilmoore Family; the Asbys; Mable Hall, with her manage horse "King." Robert Emmons has a good animal act with his two steers, a burro, a pony, a mule and a high-strung horse. The show has been refitted this season, and everything is new; the stock is in eleant condition also. Owing to rain, snow and cold weather playing in opposition, the show's business at first was nothing to brag of, but since leaving Kalamazoo matters have taken a different turn, and now everything points to a very successful season.Billboard, June 9, 1900, p. 5.
Chicago, Ill. June 13. - The reserved seats section in the Ed. F. Davis Circus, at Fifty-fifth street and Kimbark avenue, fell last night during the performance, and fourteen persons were injured. Only one was hurt seriously, the other injuries being confined to scratches and bruises. . . . Many women and children fainted from fright, and were trampled under foot by the crowd rushing to escape from the tent. The reserved seat section had a capacity of 200, and those who sat on the collapsed side declare that people were crowded on it until it fell from the weight. This is denied by representatives of Davis.
The tent was packed when the hour for opening arrived, at 8 o'clock. The band had scarcely finished the overture when people sitting in the east reserved portion felt the structure sway and tremble under them. A woman shrieked, and then the whole section collapsed. In an instant there was confusion. Women fainted, some men turned pale, while others hurried across the ring to assist in carrying out the victims from the wreck. An alarm was sent to the Hyde Park Police Station, and two wagons and an ambulance were quickly on the scene.
The band had stopped abruptly, but as the wreckage was removed and it was known no lives were lost, the bandmaster gave the signal and the musicians struck up a lively air. Quick work by the canvasmen and the police cleared the space occupied formerly by the reserved portion. A futile effort was made to continue the performance, but the crowd would have none of it. Finally, the main lights were turned out, and the work of tearing down the tents begun. By this time a mob of boys and men surrounded the tent, demanding their money back, and became so threatening that Sergt. Bagnelis(?) was compelled to send for more police to control the crowd. . . . The same circus had a collapse of the reserved seat section last week in South Chicago. Several persons were hurt at that time.
Chicago, June 14 - E. F. Davis, proprietor of the Davis Circus Company, failed to appear and surrender himself at the Hyde Park Police Station to-day. Davis is charged with criminal carelessness in warrants sworn out by Attorney P. F. Ryan, representing a score of persons recentlyinjured in the falling of the arena seats during the performance of the circus at South Chicago and again at Fifty-fifth street and Kimbark avenue. Davis' lawyer, whose name is witheld, called at the police station yesterday and assured Inspector Hunt that Davis would surrender himself to-day. At 1 o'clock this afternoon Capt. Madden of the Hyde Park Police Station detailed detectives to arrest Davis. It is believed that the circus will attempt to show on the north side to-night, and the police of the city have been ordered to prevent its opening, as two accidents and three riots as a result of its performances during the last ten days have convinced Chief K??ley that the show is not compatible with public safety.
The Ed. F. Davis Shows were refused a license after the seats fell down for the second time in Chicago. The show was shipped out of town without molestation. Billboard, June 23, 1900, p. 5.
The Ed. F. Davis Shows have got in running order again. Billboard, June 30, 1900, p. 5.
1900: L. S. Thompson is now general agent of the Ed. F. Davis Shows, succeeding De Forrest Davis, retired. Billboard, July 7, 1900, p. 5.
Ed. F. Davis writes that he has closed. The season ended at Kalamazoo on July 10, with a performance under the auspices of the Elks. Billboard, July 21, 1900.
Ed. F. Davis writes that he got the show home intact, that he has settled with his actors and musicians and that the circus will go out again next spring, but on a different scale. Billboard, August 4, 1900.
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Davis Bros. - 1911 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911
Following are some of the acts which will be seen with the Davis Bros.' New Wagon Shows that will open about May 1: Barth and Barth, aerialists; Col. Straub and his dogs; Adams and Mack, acrobats; Kotaro, Japanese wire artist and foot juggler; Kid Clark, clown. Billboard, April 8, 1911, p. 24.
Norwalk, Ohio. W. A. Roscoe returned from a sucessful season in charge of the publicity department of Davis Brothers' circus. New York Dramatic Mirror, September 27, 1911, p. 21.
1918: Toledo, O., Jan. 5. Charles Davis, of Davis Bros.' Circus and Carnival fame, is here for the winter. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 31.
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Homer Davis' - 1879
Homer Davis' New Show opens in Connersville, Ind., May 17, with John Wood, agent; H. E. Frazer, treasurer; Harry King, equestrian director. Show has ten ring horses. After playing Indiana the show will take to the water in Toledo and tour the lakes. New York Clipper, May 17, 1879, p. 63.
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W. H. Davis' Great Western - 1882, 1884
1882:
Wanted for W. H. Davis' Great Western Show: brass band, boss canvasman, troupe of trained dogs. Also candy and outside privileges for sale. New York Clipper, March 18, 1882, p. 864.
W. H. Davis' New Great Western Show, Stewart W. Davis, manager, gives its first exhibition in New Berlin, Pa., April 29. The show is new throughout, and has a band of twelve pieces. An agent and performers are wanted. New York Clipper, April 29, 1882, p. 102.
1884:
Performers in all branches of the profession (except riders), an advance agent, musicians and a boss canvasman are wanted for Davis & Co.'s Great Western Show. Manager W. H. Davis also states that the privileges are for sale. New York Clipper, July 5, 1884, p. 251.
Wanted for Davis & Le Favre's Great Western Show. Season opens Aug. 9. A few more performers, those doing doubling preferred. Also and and boss canvasman. Show goes South. Address W. H. Davis, Selinsgrove, Pa. New York Clipper, July 26, 1884, p. 303.
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Davis' Ideal Circus - 1893, 1895
1893: Wanted, tent 80 to 100 ft. top, with middle piece, seats, poles, ropes, etc., also dressing tent; circus and concert acts of all kinds, boss canvas man. Ideal Circus, Metropolis, Ill. New York Clipper, January 28, 1893, p. 762.
1895:
Notes from winter quarters of the Ideal Circus. Next season will be better and stronger than last year. We will have an ascension and parachute drop daily. New York Clipper, January 12, 1895, p. 715.
Notes from winter quarters of the Ideal Circus. We will have one of the finest bands of ten pieces. This is a one ring show, with riding acts, ponies, dogs, etc. New York Clipper, January 26, 1895, p. 751.
Ideal Circus notes. We open at Olney, Illinois, May 7. The following people have signed: the Seeney Bros., R. Lee Metcalfe, Alfred Heintz, Mlle Marvelle, J. T. Stewart, Fred Rivers, Prof. J. Levin . . . J. H. Murray has the candy stands. New York Clipper, March 16, 1895, p. 21.
The Ideal Circus, Thos. L. Davis, proprietor and manager, has signed E. W. Cole with his trained donkeys, dogs, goats and ponies, and has secured C. E. Beyrle and Schofield Thornton for the band. New York Clipper, March 23, 1895, p. 35.
Notes from the Ideal Circus. Thos. L. Davis is proprietor and manager. A one ring circus with the following people up to the present time: Seeney Bros., R. Lee Metcalfe, Thos. Valvo, Clara Marxelle, E. W. Cole, W. H. Force, Alfred Heintz, Emil Kliment, Prof. J. Levin, Fred Rivers, Shofield Thornton, J. T. Stewart, Will Harder, W. P. Dennis . . . We open at Olney, Illinois, May 7. New York Clipper, April 20, 1895, p. 99.
Davis Show notes. The Thos. L. Davis Ideal Shows opened at Olney, Illinois, May 7. Roster: Thos. L. Davis, proprietor and manager; Mrs. Thos. L. Davis, treasurer; Edward Force, contracting agent in advance; James Gill, lithographer; Ollie York, boss bill poster with eight men; Shang Anderson, in charge of canvas with fifteen men; Blackey Jones, boss property man and five men; Ad. Martin, boss hostler with ten men; Ed Dockery, in charge of lights. Performers: R. Lee Metcalfe, principal clown and equestrian director; Seery Bros., brother act and bars; Mons Kliment, gun juggling and Arab tumbling; W. H. Donley, knockabout clown; the May Sisters (Lola and Marie), double trap and rings; Prof. Cole's ponies, dogs and goats; Clyde Cole, trained mule; Bruce Davis, child rider; Annie Moran, club swinger Addie Kerdell, slack wire; Maggie Durell, single traps. Our band consists of fourteen people under the leadership of Emil Kliment. Prof. W. T. Dennis, parachute leaper and balloon manager. Our show plays Illinois for the next thirty days. It is a wagon show and carries sixty-four head of stock. Our top is 90ft. round, with 50ft. middle piece; dressing room and four horse tents. Our concert employs eight people. New York Clipper, May 18, 1895, p. 163.
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Dawn Bros. Circus - 1973 or '74 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1967-1972
Don Bridwell and Fred Marco announced they were to revive Bridwell's show, Dawn Bros. Circus for 1974. Planned to tour indoor dates in the East and Midwest. Bridwell used the Dawn Bros. Circus title in 1967. Circus Report, Vol. 2, No. 33, 1973, p. 7.
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Dawson Bros. Wild West - 1908 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1908
Dawson's Brothers' Wild West Show report good business since the opening April 16. Roster: James Dawson, proprietor and manager; Elmore and Wallace, double riders; Chas. Wallace, Master Peter Voltz, Earl Derby, Bertha Derby, Loretta Derby and Master John Mason. The show will close its season October 10 at Carrollton, Ky., and ship to winter quarters at Connersville, Ind. Billboard, October 10, 1908, p. 20.
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Dayolheasala’s Imperial - 1902 (Canada)
• An article on the 1902 show is online in Bandwagon, December 1944 (scroll down).
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Circus D'Carlo - 1984, 1986-87
1984: Owned by former flyer Carlos Farfan, the show played the World's Fair in New Orleans, closing on November 11. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 10.
1986: This one-ring show played the Los Angeles area from July to at least October. Bandwagon, January-February, 1987, p. 10.
1987: This one-ring show played in the Latino neighborhoods throughout Los Angeles and Orange counties. Los Angeles Times, March 31, 1987.
• Circo D'Carlo did not go out in 1989. Bandwagon, January-February, 1990, p. 13.
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Dean & Pell's - 1873
Dissolution of partnership. The firm of Levi J. North and A. J. Dean & Co.'s Circus of All Nations, Trained Animals and Pantomime Exhibition is dissolved by the withdrawl of Mr. Levi J. North. The business of the above will be continued under the title of A. J. Dean and Chas. C. Pell, sole proprietors. People engaged for the above show will report at Jersey City by May 5 for rehearsals. Wanted, about May 5, ten men to work on canvas. Apply at 112 Pavoni avenue. A. J. Dean, Chas. C. Pell, proprietors. New York Clipper, May 3, 1873, p. 35.
People engaged for North, Dean & Company's Circus are informed that the season will commence at Jersey City, N.J., about May 10. New York Clipper, May 3, 1873, p. 35.
Dean & Pell's Circus of All Nations exhibited at Rondout, N.Y., May 26, Saugerties 27, Catskill 28, Hudson 29 . . . New York Clipper, June 7, 1873, p. 79.
J. H. Laine, treasurer, and William Ducrow, equestrian director, of Dean & Pell's Circus of All Nations, will sail for Central and South America at the close of the present tenting season. New York Clipper, June 14, 1873, p. 83.
Charles Mathews and Belle Celeste, aerial gymnasts, also Julian Kent, clown, joined Pell & Dean's Circus of All Nations at Albany, N.Y., recently. New York Clipper, June 14, 1873, p. 87.
William Collins, clown with A. J. Dean's Circus of All Nations, will start on the road early in November with a burlesque, minstrel and variety troupe. New York Clipper, September 13, 1873, p. 191.
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Al Dean's Circus - 1945-46 Show is listed for 1945 in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and for 1945-46 in Sturtevant's List of Circuses
1945:
Los Angeles, May 26. - Two more circuses took to the road from here this week and last . . . Al Dean's Circus in Lynwood Friday (25). . . . Billboard, June 2, 1945, p. 44.
Los Angeles, June 9. - Forrest Freeland, of Al Dean's Circus, after planing to play around this neck of the woods all summer, pulled stakes and took the show to Uplands, a 60-mile jump from here, following two days (5-6) in Hawthorne. Show will play only California, according to latest reports, but plans to go as far north as San Jose. Dean's picked up good business for three days in Inglewood last week-end (1-3). Poodles and Gracie Hanneford closed with the Dean show to keep picture dates. Charlie Bathe, clown, also closed. Billboard, June 16, 1945, p. 47.
Los Angeles, June 16. - . . . Al Dean's Circus is moving to the San Bernardino area. . . . Moving out this week, but back in town to make arrangements, Forrest Freeland, who has the Al Dean show, said that he would paly Colton and Redlands, the latter date a Friday, Saturday and Sunday run. Dates following include Beaumont on Monday and Banning on Tuesday. Whether Freeland is switching to a one-day stand policy as over his previous one of two and three days, he would not say. The Canestrellis are still with the Dean show, with La Tosca in the featured spot. Poodles and Gracie Hanneford have finished their movie shots and there is a possibilty they will join the show again. Billboard, June 23, 1945, p. 44.
1946:
Los Angeles, March 30. - . . . Yet to bow is the Al Dean Circus, headed by Forrest Freeland . . . Billboard, April 6, 1946, p. 73.
Dainty, bespangled equestriennes, flashing acrobats, performing elephants, blaring brass bands and funny clowns along with all the wonders at the big Al Dean Circus are coming to Torrance, all enlisted in the cause of the new Torrance Kiwanis Club Boys' Band. The big show will be here for a two-day engagement and will present four performances under the mammoth tent on the showgrounds at Cabrillo ave., near Carson, on Thursday and Friday, May 9th and 10th. Performances will be presented afternoon
and night at 2:30 and 8:15. . . .
Betty Miles is one of the stars of the Al Dean Circus, Betty has been seen in many moving pictures with, her famous trick horse, "Sonny," an amazing horse with almost human intelligence. "Sonny" can count, dance, march, perform menage and, other unusual routines. Betty trained the horse herself at her ranch in Sepulveda, California. She has appeared as a featured attraction in circuses and on theatre stages from coast to coast. Another brilliant and beautiful feminine equestrienne starred on the big show programs is Gracie Hanneford, youthful bareback riding queen who appears with her father, "Poodles" Hanneford. "Poodles" is known throughout the entire circus world for being the greatest bareback riding comedian of all time. Gracie is just twenty-two years old and has been on the backs of circus horses almost since the, day she was born. She can execute ballet and rhumba dances on the backs of running horses with the grace and beauty of a ballroom dance star. Her bareback routines are packed with thrilling acrobatics too - audiences gasp as she performs daring stunts on her father's shoulders while he stands upright on two running ring horses.
Penny Parker is the clown with the rubber bones. He can twist his body into all kinds of shapes as if his joints were all two-way hinges. Penny has been featured in almost every big circus in the world. When he his legs crossed behind his head, he looks like a human pretzel. For all of the crazy antics he performs, he is a real artist at creating side splitting [unreadable text] Penny produces all the big clown number in the program of the Al Dean circus.
The big show has more than twenty-five giant displays featuring such attractions as Bonnie, the motion picture elephant; Tarzan, the human ape; Woch's performing dogs and ponies; Miss Linda, petite and daring feminine aerial star; Cy Otis and His comedy mule and many other novelties and thrills. Torrance Herald (Torrance, CA), May 2, 1946, p. 4-A.
Los Angeles, Jun 29. Al Dean Circus, one-ring org, which has been playing auspices around Los Angeles, has been declared nationally "unfair" by the American Guild of Variety Artists. The show, owned and operated by Forrest Freeland, is charged by AGVA with dismissing the Jumping Jacks, an acrobatic act, and refusing to pay the troupe $150 in back salaries owed. Freeland stated that . . . only one of the acrobatic trio, Bob Perry, was with the Dean show this year and that the beef was evidently an outgrowth of the show's financial troubles of last year. According to Freeland, Perry was paid $40 per day whenever he worked and was paid for every day except for the last date at Upland, Calif., where the show closed last month. Freeland also stated that he has been making payments on the money due the original troupe for last season's booking and that not more than $60 is still unpaid. The show, now in the barn for the second time this season, is undergoing reorganization and according to Freeland, will hit the road again in July. Billboard, July 6, 1946, p. 75.
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DeBesque's London Show - 1888 or DeBeque's; DeBesque's listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888
Show was billed for Fayetteville, Arkansas, October 15, 16, but went to pieces in Missouri. New York Clipper, October 27, 1888, p. 527.
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De Bonnaire's - 1885, 1891-92, 1894
1885: DeBonnair's railroad show is billed for Muskogee, Sept. 12th, all under one large tent. By the looks of the bills, it ought to be a good show. They have no menagerie, just give a circus performance. They will visit all the principal towns along the road. Indian Journal (Muskogee, OK), September 10, 1885, n.p.n.
1891: For sale, cheap. One flat car, . . . bareback horses . . . elephant ???, a lot of other wardrobe. Also desire a partner for a neat wagon show for the coming season of 1892. Jeanette De Bonnaire, Crawford County, Kansas. New York Clipper, December 26, 1891, p. 706.
1892:
Wanted, for De Bonnaires' United Wagons Shows, people in all branches of the circus business for every department. Privileges to let; also one 60ft. combination and one 35ft. flat car for sale. Jeannette De Bonnaire, Pittsburg, Crawford County, Kas. New York Clipper, March 12, 1892, p. 14.
S.(?) P. Bowman has the sideshow privilege with De Bonnaire's United Shows, Ancient Caravan and Monster Museum. Among the features already engaged are: S. P. Bowman, manager; Jennie Bowman; Nina ???; Kate De Bonnaire; Col. Stoddard; Zamo, Zulu chief; Armelo(?) Bedo; the mastodon double hump camel Bush(?); a cage of monkeys; four pair living vampires. a 60ft. round top, with a 30ft. middle piece, in charge of Buck Davin, with two assistants; a front of fourteen Tucker Bro. paintings. The show opens Mar 5 at Pittsburg, Kan., for three days. Jennie Bowman, with her dog circus, has signed. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
Wanted, for the Great Parisian Shows, musicians, good general performers who can ??? in leaps and tumble. Sideshow and other privileges to let on percentage; also two sixty feet flat cars for sale. Jeannette De Bonnaire, manager, Pittsburg, Kansas. New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 254.
• Information on the 1892 Great Parisian show (De Bonnaire) is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 4, pp. 34-35.
1894: Jeanette De Bonnaire offers a wagon show for lease. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 126.
• 1877: Jennetta De Bonnaire, double trapeze artist and serio-comic singer, can be engaged. New York Clipper, July 7, 1877, p. 18.
• 1900 Michigan Census, 114 Macomb street, Ward 3, Detroit, Wayne County
DeBonnaire, Jennie; head; born May 1861; age 39; married 8 years, no children; born IN, father born VA, mother born OH; no occupation, rents house.
DeBonnaire, Lewis; boarder; b. Nov 1858; age 42; married 8 years; born NJ; father born NY, mother born NJ; occupation showman.
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De Cooper's - 1891
Wanted, circus, sideshow and concert people, all except riders, also a troupe of trick dogs. All people must do two or more acts. Those playing brass perferred. Long engagement and fair salaries to good people. Show opens June 20. Privileges for sale. Address Prof. De Cooper, proprietor and manager, King of the Road and Rail and Air Ship Co., 134 W. Federal Street, Youngstown, O. P. S. For sale, full set of scenery painted in oil. New York Clipper, June 13, 1891, p. 240.
Dan C. Manning, principal clown; Ida Bailey and Manning and dogs, late of Bailey's London Circus, have signed with Prof. De Cooper's Circus. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 268.
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Deery's - 1865 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1865
1865:
[Advertisement] The Great Metropolitan Circus. Deery's Great World Circus! Two establishments combined. The most complete traveling exhibition ever organized. Consisting of a magnificent outfit, a troupe of equestrians and equestriennes, a corps of gymnasts and acrobats, a company of questro-dramatists, comedians and pantomimists, a full complement of equerries, grooms and chevaliers of the arena, and a toute ensemble brilliant beyond precedent. Comprising in its comprehensive detail a starry galaxy selected from the creme-de-la-creme of the various amphitheatrical establishments of Europe and America.
The stud of horses has been chosen with no less care, and in blood, beauty and training can defy rivalry. The trick horses and educated mules are marvels of equine sagacity - in short, in every particular, the Great World Circus can lay claim to the title of the Hippo-Arenic Model of the Age.
The following gentlemen comprise the corps of managers and directors. M. J. Robinson & Deery, proprietors. Alex. Robinson, manager. Dr. Geo W. Stevens, treasurer. Leon Whittony, equestrian director. Prof. Wahle, leader of band.
The cavalcade entering town in grand procession preceded by the gorgeous Dolphin Chariot, the most magnificent specimen of art and elaborate workmanship ever paraded before the public, splendidly caparisoned and driven and controlled by Jack Mapes, the champion whip.
Two clowns at each performance. Hiram Day, the great wit and modern Grimaldi. Charles Covelli, the talking and singing clown, acknowledged as the most acceptable man of humor who ever assumed position in the department of fun.
The company are led by the following artists, each of whom is a widely celebrated star in his or her profession. Madame Maria Robinson, the sun beam of the cirque, the prima donna of equestriennes, and a paragon of grace, beauty, feminine bravery and artistic excellence. Little Annie, the June-line queen of the arena, and terpsichorean artist. La Fairie Alice, the beautiful little histrionic equestrienne. Mille Leonette, the daring and magnificent horse woman.
John Star, the champion two, four and six horse rider. The Whittony Brothers, and Master Tommy. The motley delineators of the Grecian and Roman schools of high art, exemplified in their beautiful classic Olympian melange. Master Charles, the Arbacian master of the Egyptian science, illustionist and prestidigitateur extraordinaire. Signor Wallace, the great globe equilibrist & matre du cirque. Mr. Hiram Day, the wit, jester, humorist and clown per excellence. A merry offshoot of Momus, a "fellow of infinite wit," and a genuine and original specimen of the Shaksperian buffo. Alex Robinson, his motley associate and quaint and quizzical comperor. Messrs. Chas. Long, Geo. Nixon, Henry Howe, John Norton, Bob Smith, Joe Reesides. Acrobats, gymnasts, and amphitheatrical professors of la haute ecole.
The magnificent John Ster, the prodigy of the menage, a supurb specimen of blood, symetry and intelligence, will be introduced in his educated performances, by Madam Robinson. Dr. Stevans' troupe of educated dogs and monkeys. From Astley Amphitheatre, London, the famous trick mules, Sancho, the spotted Spaniard, and Paul Pry, unhesitatingly pronounced the wonders of the mule family, will be exhibited at each performance by the trainer, Mr. C. Covelie. Shellbark, the incomprehensible road, etc., all exhibited under a spacious oriental pavilion, amid strains of Orpheus like music by the double band of string and wind instruments, led by the great director, Professor E. Wahle.
Admission to all parts of the pavilion, 50 cents. Children under 10 years, 25 cents. Doors open at 1 and 7 p.m. This large and magnificent establishment will exhibit at Indiana, on Thursday, July 6th. Indiana Democrat (Indiana, PA), July 6, 1865, n.p.n.
• Deery's World Circus was at Franklin, Pennsylvania on June 22, 1865. Bannerline, February 1, 1954, p. 6.
• Information on the 1865 "affray" at Franklin, PA, June 22 in White Tops, Sept-Oct-Nov, 1943, Vol. 16, Nos. 10, 11, 12, p. 11.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
George W. De Haven's - 1860-62, 1865-69, 1870, 1879, 1883-84 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1860-1870, 1880-81, 1887
1860:
[Advertisement] Ho! Ho! De Haven's Great Union Circus! Is coming. Ladies, gentlemen, and everybody, wait and go to see the Great Union Circus! The most magnificent troupe now in the United States. Having secured, at the most extravagent salaries, the first artists, both male and female, of America and Europe, we are now prepared to submit respectfully to the public for their honest decision. Will exhibit at Janesville, Saturday, May 5th; Woodstock, Monday, May 7th. This company will positively meet their appointments. Refer to large bills. Weekly Gazette and Free Press (Janesville, WI), April 27, 1860, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] De Haven's Great Union Circus! The largest and most meritorious organization now on the American continent. Having been so singulary successful in securing the first artists, both male and female, of Europe and America, enables to present an artistic force of such a character that no other equestrian institution now in the sporting world can ever assume to enter into competition with the Great Union Circus. The agent of this circus is exceedingly happy in being enabled to announce a series of exhibitions in Milwaukee, corner Main & Huron Sts., rear of Albany Hall, on Friday & Saturday, May 18 and 19.
Our grand entree into the arena will be introduced by an act entitled The Poet's Dream, or, The Bedouins Camping, with their superb steeds, on the Arabian desert. Mark the noted stars: Oliver Bell, Henry Morrass, Hiram Marks, Mast. Fred Warner, Bill Sparks, Mast. Chas. Clark, Washin'n DeHaven, Herr Kline, Thos. Williams, P. H. Seamon, Mrs. P. H. Seamon. M'lle Louise, today the pride of the American arena, Tom Burgess, the great Southern clown, shakesperian and original Pete Jenkins. Charley Huntington, the great American clown, comic pantomimist and grotesque pasturer, and those quadrupedal celebrities, Floating Cloud and Starlight.
We have no worn out baggage horses, but suffice to say that we have a stud of blooded and trained horses and ponies that defy competition, either for number, beauty or sagacity. The above present an array of stars seldom combined in any one company. We can justly say, without fear of contradiction, that we have the best riders in America, best acrobats, best clowns, finest horses and outfit, of any company travelling in the United States, and we are now prepared to submit to the public for their decision. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Performances at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2. Admission 25 cents; reserved seats 50 cts. C. S. Pitts, advertiser. C. C. Schucer, gen'l agent. Milwaukee Daily Sentinel (WI), May 14, 1860, p. 1.
De Haven's Great Union Circus . . . Friday and Saturday, May 18 and 19. Our Grand Entree into the arena, will be introduced by an act entitled The Poet's Dream, or, the Bedouins Camping, with their suberb steeds, on the Arabian desert. Mark the proud galaxy of noted stars: Oliver Bell, Hiram Marks, Billy Sparks, Washin'n DeHaven, Thos. Williams, P. H. Seamon, Henry Morrasy, Mast. Fred Warner, Mast. Chas. Clark, Herr Kline, Ellsler Brothers,Mrs. P. H. Seamon. M'lle Louise, the pride of the American arena, Tom Burgess, the great Southern clown, Shakesperian and original Pete Jenkins. Charley H. Huntington, the great American clown, comic pantomimist and grotesque pasturer. And those quadrupedal celebrities, Floating Cloud and Starlight. . . . C. C. Schucer, gen'l agent. [Advertisement] Milwaukee Sentinel (Milwaukee, WI), May 15, 1860, p. 1.
• 1860: online at
Clipper, July 14, Clipper, August 4, Clipper, September 1 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 29, Clipper, November 3, Clipper, December 29 (scroll down)
• Information on DeHaven's Circus, during the Civil War, is in Slout's Clowns and Cannons.
1861:
[Advertisement] G. W. DeHaven's Great Union Circus will exhibit at Madison, on Monday afternoon and evening, August 12th, 1861. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Admission to all parts of the great pavilion, only 25 cents. Good seats for all. Will exhibit at Sauk, Saturday, Aug. 10, and at Mazemanie, Tuesday, Aug. 13. Daily State Journal (Madison, WI), August 8, 1861, p. 1.
• 1861: online at:
Clipper, April 27, Clipper, May 18, Clipper, July 13 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 20, Clipper, July 27, Clipper, August 10 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 17, Clipper, September 7 (scroll down)
1862:
[Advertisement] Great Union Circus! The best riders, the most superior tumblers, the best gymnasts, three clowns, three female equestriennes. In fact the greatest combination of talent ever congregated in one pavilion. Will exhibit at Cedar Falls, Tuesday, July 22, '62. Doors opne at 2 and 7 p.m. Admission only 25 cents. All box seats. Positively nothing introduced to mar the feelings of the most fastidious. Geo. W. DeHaven, manager. Charles Lord, agent. Cedar Falls Gazette (IA), July 18, 1862, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] Great Union Circus. The model show of the age. The best tumblers, the most superior riders, the most wonderful gymnasts. The only show in the world that has four clowns. The only show in the United States that has four female equestriennes. The only show in the world that has four tumblers who perfom the astonishing and perilous feat of throwing a double somersault. In fact, it is the greatest combination of talent ever congregated under one pavilion. Among the most prominent may be found the following artists:
Clowns. Dan Castillo, the great European homorist, late of Astley's Royal Amphitheatre, London; the only man in the world who leaps over twelve horses, will positively appear on each occasion, and open his budget of fun, and do his utmost to please and not disgust. ("I admire wit without vulgarity."). Hiram Marks, the great American clown, will appear and enliven the arena with his numerous jokes and happy sayings. Tom Osborne, the celebrated performing clown, will appear and dispense his songs, stump speeches, &c. F. F. Demming, grotesque clown and general performer.
Equestriennes and equestrians. Miss Cole, the graceful and daring equestrienne, will appear with her educated horse, "Jupito." Mrs. Dan Castillo, who for beautiful and graceful acts of horsemanship has no equal. Miss Mary Ann Cook, the world-renowned equestrienne - late of Astley's Royal Circus, England. Mlle. Virginia Leoni, the justly celebrated danseuse - late of Ranconi's Hippodrome, Paris. La Petite Minnie.
Miles Orton, the far-famed bareback and trick somersault rider, will appear in his principal acts, and also in his great metamorphosis and burlesque act, entitled Pete Jenkins ("Stop the animal, I'd rather work on a farm"). Master George, who stands unrivaled in his terrific acts of flying through the air, dancing upon the head of a person on horseback, &c., &c. Mr. George, W. DeHaven, the noted wild Camanche rider, in his great two and four horse acts. Hiram Marks, in his celebrated clown's act ("Big folks come to our house yet, the Sheriff was there the other day.").
Gymnasts and tumblers. The world renowned Holland Family, consisting of Mr. John Holland and his three sons - Masters Johnny, Georgie and Eddie, will appear in their unapproachable feats of juggling, posturing perch trapeze, &c., &c. Jo. Tinkham, the best tumbler in America, who must be seen to be appreciated, and hosts of other performers and performances, too numerous to mention.
Will exhibit at Davenport on Thursday, August 7, 1862. We perform all we advertise. Doors opne at 2 and 7 p.m. Admission only 25 cents. Good seats for all. No pit! No reserved seats! Ten per cent of the entire receipts will be given to the Soldier's Aid Society. Positively noting will be introduced to mar the feelings of the most fastidious. Geo. W. DeHaven, manager. Charlie F. Lord, agent. Davenport Daily Gazette (IA), August 7, 1862, n.p.n.
• 1862: online at:
Clipper, March 22, Clipper, April 19, Clipper, September 6 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 27, Clipper, October 11 (scroll down)
1865:
[Advertisement] Geo. W. DeHaven & Co.'s United Circus! Newly organized for the season of 1865. Geo. W. DeHaven, manager. Levi J. North, equestrian director. A. Haight, treasurer. This great combination company embraces more talent than any other company now traveling, among which are the following: M'lle Louise, the greatest ascensionist and tight rope performer in the world. M'lle DeAulay, the great Parisian equestrienne. Levi J. North, America's own horseman. Signor Bliss, the wonder of the world, in his extraordinary antipedal feat of walking a ceiling. Mr. Albert Aymar, in his celebrated principal act.
The Gymnastic Brothers, from Cirque Imperial, Paris. The trained ponies, Yankee Notions and Little Rebel, the smallest creatures ever introduced into a ring. Mr. Charles Rivers, in beautiful changeable acts. Berdeau and Carr, from Cook's Royal Circus, in their wonderful performances on the horizontal bar. Young Levi North, the greatest rider of his age living, in his thrilling act on his wild ponies. Henry Coyle, the celebrated trick clown, in his unrivalled act on stilts. Mr. William Naylor, the world-renowned somerset rider. Mr. John Naylor, in his wonderful battoute leaps.
The trained horse, Mars, introduced by Levi J. North. Signor Bliss and children, in their beautiful acts of posturing. Battoute leaps and tumbling, by the troupe, led by the hero of 100 somersets, Rivers and Aymar. Master Willie, as the Wild Hunter of the Far West. The performances will be enlivened by those jolly Sons of Momus, Seamon and Johnson, the comic mules, Thad and Josh, who never fail to bring forth from the audience rounds of applause. Each entertainment will conclude with a laughable ballet pantomime, in which M'lles Julia, Fannie, JeCnnette, Marie, and Masters John, Frank, James, Thaddeus, Joshua and Buffield will appear. Each performance will be enlivened by music given by the New York Opera Band.
Will exhibit at Janesville on Tuesday, April 18th, 1865. Admission 50 cts. Children 10 cts. Doors open at 1 1/2 and 7 p.m. Performances commence at 2 and 7 1/2 p.m. Remember that the grand outside ascension takes place at one o'clock p.m., free to all. For full particulars see large bills and programmes. R. A. North, agent. Janesville Weekly Gazette (WI), April 6, 1865, p. 7.
• 1865: online at:
Clipper, March 11, Clipper, March 25, Clipper, April 29 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 15, Clipper, August 12, Clipper, September 9 (scroll down)
Clipper, October 7, Clipper, November 4, Clipper, November 11 (scroll down)
Clipper, December 9 (scroll down)
• Information on the 1865 Geo. W. DeHaven & Co.'s United Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 6, pp. 70-72.
1866:
[Advertisement] Wait for the Wagon. Geo. W. DeHaven & Co.'s Imperial Circus. The largest equestrian company in the world. The amphitheatres of both hemispheres have been culled to obtain the brightest "Galaxy of Stars" ever presented to the American public. Will appear at Dubuque, Sat., June 2nd. Doors open at one and seven o'clock p.m. Performance to commence at 1 1/2 and 7 1/2 o'clock p.m. Geo. W. De Haven, manager. Frank Oliver, treasurer. Burnell Runnels, equestrian director. Fraan Johnson, master of circle. Mons. Frake, master of horse. Ben. Hazen, director of orchestra.
Pre-eminent among this unrivalled troupe stands the beautiful and graceful French lady, Madame Louise Tornair [sic], whose daring feats upon her bare-back steed have justly given her the title of the world's only bare-back rider. In her superb "Manage," she has no rival. To use the language of the celebrated clown, Wallett, "She is the only living lady that can do it, either in Europe or America. All others are but feeble imitators." Mr. William Dutton, the young, graceful and dashing equestrian whose performance during the last winter in New York city and the West Indies, won for him the reputation of the most accomplished somersault rider of the age.
Mons. Burnell (from La Cirque, Napaleoune, Paris), the greatest two, three and four-horse rider of the age. On the 11 of June, 1858, Monsieur Burnell and his two sons appeared at the Alhambra Palace, London, before their Majesties Queen Victoria and Prince Albert and the Royal Court where they received various marks of royal favor. On the 18th of May, 1859, he also appeared, by special invitation, at the city of Stockholm, before King Charles XV, King of Sweden, the the royal household. On the 16th day of December 1860, Mons. Burnell also had the honor of appearing before King Pedro __ Lisbon, in Portugal. At Paris, during his long engagement at the "Cirque Napoleonue," he likewise appeared before the Emperor and Empress, the Princess Eugene and the royal court, and received the highest an dmost substantial rewards from their hands.
Theodore Tornair [sic], the unrivaled hurdle rider, will appear in every performance upon his wild prairie steed. A Visit to the Clouds, at one o'clock p.m., Miss Kate Bailey, the daring aerial ascensionist, will perform the thrilling and fearful feat of ascending a taut wire to the fearful distance of two hundred feet - ascending on the outside of the pavilion to the top of the centre pole - this astonishing performance being visible to all without charge.
Mr. William Worrell, the unrivaled and accomplished clown, after an absence of eight years in Australia and California, where he won for himself the proud title of "Emperor of Jesters," has been engaged at an enormous salary and will enliven the entertainment with his sallies of wit and sarcasm. P. H. Seaman [sic?], the old favorite and genial clown, will also be on hand with his budget of fun. Miss Ida Day, the accomplished and talented danseuse and vocalist, has also been engaged, and will contribute her part to the entertain the public with choice performances.
Messrs. Rinehart, Carr, Perdue, Henry North, together with the immortal Batchelor, making a quintette of the most accomplished acrobats of this or any other country, have been engaged at a tremendous expense, and will appear at every performance. No other company can present such a galaxy of remarkable acrobats, and a challenge of one thousand dollars awaits the production of their equals. James De Mott, the far-famed equestrian and gymnast, has also been engaged and will contribute his share toward the general entertainment. Dubuque Daily Herald (IA), May 23, 1866, n.p.n.
De Haven's circus is advertised for sale by the Sheriff of St. Louis county, to satisfy a debt of nine hundred dollars due by the company. - Leavenworth Bulletin. Weekly Wisconsin Union (Madison, WI), August 14, 1866, n.p.n.
• 1866: online at:
Clipper, March 10, Clipper, March 31, Clipper, April 21 (scroll down)
Clipper, May 19, Clipper, May 26, Clipper, June 16 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 7, Clipper, July 21, Clipper, July 28 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 4, Clipper, August 11, Clipper, August 25 (scroll down)
Clipper, September 1 (scroll down)
• Information on the 1866 Geo. W. DeHaven & Co.'s Imperial Circus is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1997, Vol. 41, No. 1, p. 45.
• 1867: online at:
Clipper, February 9, Clipper, March 2, Clipper, March 16 (scroll down)
Clipper, June 8, Clipper, June 22, Clipper, September 28 (scroll down)
Clipper, October 5 (scroll down)
1868:
[Advertisement] Geo. W. DeHaven's Grand Imperial Circus. Wm. Shephard, proprietor. Geo. W. DeHaven, manager. Oliver Dodge, master of circle. Do not fail to see Little Anna make the ascension on the wire and Signor Bliss walk the ceiling. The performing troupe has no superior in versatility of talent, or proficiency of execution. In the number of its artists, male and female, it equals any equestrian organization of the age.
A grand free exhibition entitled a "Trip to the Clouds," by Little Anna and Master Jonny, will be given every evening at 6 o'clock on the outside of the pavilion on a single wire a distance of one hundred and fifty feet, placed at an altitude of fifty feet from the ground. Will exhibit in Dubuque every evening this week. Doors open at 7 p.m. A matinee will be given Saturday afternoon, commencing at 2 o'clock. Dubuque Daily Herald (IA), May 26, 1868, p. 1.
De Haven's circus leaves tomorrow for up river, and consequently the matinee heretofore advertised for Saturday will not be given. Tonight will be the concluding performance. Dubuque Daily Herald (IA), May 29, 1868, n.p.n.
• 1868: online at:
Clipper, March 28, Clipper, June 27, Clipper, July 18 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 15, Clipper, September 19 (scroll down)
1869:
[Advertisement] Geo. W. DeHaven's Combination of Circus & Trained Animals. Alderman & Ladd, proprietors. Geo. W. DeHaven, manager. W. B. Carroll, equestrian director. Wm. Alderman, treasurer. Sam H. Joseph, general agent. Refitted, re-arranged and re-organized for the Spring and Summer tenting season of 1869. Will appear Wednesday, May 19th, 1869. Be particular not to confound Geo. W. DeHaven's with that of the many exhibitions traveling through the country under the assumed name of Mammoth Circus. We do not advertise a quinquepartite combination of shows, neither do we call attention to any grand sextuple aggregation of talent. We do not pretend to appear on the public streets with a gilded paraphernalia over a mile in length. We do profess to have the best talent in the way of equestrians, acrobats, gymnasts and athletes money can procure.
Mad. Amelia Bridges, premier equestrienne, from Beatty's and Astley's Royal Amphitheatres, London, also more lately attached to the Cirque Imperial, Paris. The Carroll Family. Md'lle Marie, equestrienne from the Cirque Napoleon, Paris. William B. Carroll, and his infant daughter La Petite Annie, the child wonder whose equestrianship making her the most excellent artist. Master Willie, whose perilous feats of horsemanship are perfection. The elegant daring of the rider upon the back of his favorite steed, whose equestrian illustrations have excited awe and praise of millions.
Two great clowns: Sam Lathrop, the "Old Kentucky Clown<" who for thirty years provoked the most grave to laughter. William Anderson, the genial and comical clown. The Lazell Brothers, rivals of the Hanlons in their gymnastic exercises, horizontal bar acts, and trapeze feats. Mr. Joe Tinkham, voltigeur and double sommersaultist. The Troupe of Bedouin Arabs, in classical groupings and native acrobatic peculiarities. Together with a full corps of auxillaries in the way of gymansts, acrobats, athletes and equestrians.
Fisher's Silver Cornet Band has been engaged at an enormous expense for the season. In addition to which the management have secured the Hanlon Brothers' troupe of performing dogs and monkeys. At each exhibition the comic mules will be introduced. Doors open at 1 & 7 o'clock. Performance commence at 2 & 8. Admission 50 cents. Children under ten years, 20 cts. Will exhibit at Oquawka, Thursday, May 20th. Keithsburg, Friday, May 21st. Muscatine, Saturday, May 22d. Burlington Daily Hawk-Eye (IA), May 12, 1869, p. 1.
• 1869: online at:
Clipper, January 16 (scroll down)
1870:
[Advertisement] Great Sensation Circus, at Burlington one day only, on lot cor. Sixth and Iowa streets (near Catholic Cemetery), Friday, May 13, 1870. Geo. W. DeHaven, manager. S. Q. Stokes, equestrian director. H. Fridley, leader of orchestra. R. E. J. Miles, treasurer. F. B. Caldwell, master of circle. S. H. Joseph, general agent. C. McCumber, contracting agent.
M'lle Zuella, female gymnast and aerial fairy. Miss Kate Stokes, equestrienne. The wonderful Ella, paragon of beauty, grace, artistic merit. M'lle Le Burte, dramatic and equestrienic artist. S. Q. Stokes with his European troupe of trained ponies. Mr. Charles Lowery, celebrated horseman. Mons. Sevilla, equestrian from Cirque Napoleon, Paris. James Wilson, dashing equestrian. Davenport Brothers, acrobatic feats. Signor Bliss, "The Man Fly," in his antipodean feats. Mond. Ricardo, the modern Samson, in his athletic feats. Bliss Brothers.
Three great clowns. Jimmy Reynolds, P. H. Seamon and Mons. Vatini, gymnast and grotesque trick clown. The educated horse, "Comet." Also the comic trick mules, Humpty Dumpty and Shoo Fly. Free exhibition, Miss Lottie St. Clair, the only female aeronaut who will make one of her balloon ascensions in the mammoth air ship, "City of New York." Mazeppa, or, the Wild Horse of Tartary, dramatized and arranged by R. E. Miles, of the National Theatre, Cincinnati. The gifted Mademoiselle De Burte will appear as "Mazeppa." Doors open at 1 and 7 o'clock. Admission 50 cents. Children under 12 years, 25 cents. Burlington Daily Hawk-Eye (IA), May 7, 1870, n.p.n.
1879:
De Haven's Circus, with James Robinson as the principal feature, closed a nine days' ___ at St. Louis. New York Clipper, October 11, 1879, p. 227.
George W. De Haven's Circus, of which James Robinson was a feature, gave its last performance Oct. 11 in Hodge's Park, Ill. James Robinson left with a party of friends for Northwestern Missouri on a deer hunt. The company was reorganized, and started for Commerce, Mo., 13. Among the present company are Charles Lowery, Charles Orville, R. Walcott, Wm. Reynolds, Charles N. Devere, Freligh(?) Caldwell, John Trewalla, John Kershan, Clarence Robinson, Thomas Burton, S. W. Norris, J. G. Newton, Oliver Dodge, Julius Robins, Robt. T. Butler, Wm. Bell, Arthur Murray, John ___, and Dr. G. A. Kane. The circus has been traveling by rail, but took wagons at Hodge's Park, Ill. New York Clipper, October 25, 1879, p. 243.
1883:
The Great Eastern Show, Geo. De Haven, proprietor and Herman Stevens advance agent, now traveling in Texas, includes Chas. Mathews, Geo. Sloman, Chas. Hownt, A. L. Watrigant, B. C. Carter, Donaldson Brothers, Durand and Bogan, Joe Doty, Franklin and Watson, Mons. and Mme. Lavalier, Lena Stevens and Mrs. C. B. Carter. New York Clipper, April 14, 1883, p. 54.
1884:
George W. DeHaven takes the Great Eastern Circus to the West Indies Dec. 30. New York Clipper, December 27, 1884, p. 645.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
De Haven circus - 1887-88
1887: The DeHaven circus and menagerie began two weeks' exhibitions in this city last night. The ten electric lights cast an almost daylight brillancy over the tents, and was more pleasing than the old-fashioned dim kerosene lights. The menagerie is very complete. The circus is well arranged as to seats and rings. San Antonio Daily Light (San Antonio, TX), December 20, 1887, n.p.n.
1888: The De Haven 10-cent circus and menagerie has had its tent pitched on Post Office street since Monday, but has not yet commenced its performance. It is the same show that was run out of Galveston by the big fire of 1885, except that it has been enlarged and improved. The delay in opening has been caused by the bad weather. The first performance will be given tomorrow afternoon, after which exhibitions will be given for a week. Galveston Daily News (Galveston, TX), January 27, 1888, p. 8.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
DeHaw's Show - 1887
[Advertisement] Wants a three brother act, barrel kicker and juggler. New York Clipper, August 20, 1887, p. 359.
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DeHoman Bros. - 1910, 1916 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911
1910: DeHoman Bros. Sensational Circus. 10 big feature acts, 10 funny clowns. One night only, July 18th. Big free attraction 7 p.m. Prices 10 and 20c. [Advertisement] Hempstead Sentinel (Hempstead, NY), July 14, 1910, p. 4.
1916: Reading, Pa., Oct. 19. The De Homan Bros.' Circus has closed a successful season of eighteen weeks, and manager De Homan says the show will go out again next season. He expects to enlarge the outfit during the winter. Billboard, October 28, 1916, p. 64.
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De Kreko - 1909
The De Kreko Show is now on a ten weeks' tour of Cuba, after an engagement at the Tampa Fair, Tampa, Florida. New York Dramatic Mirror, May 1, 1909, p. 14.
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De Land's - 1894, 1896-98
1894:
Deland's Great Ten Cent circus tents have the past week been pitched on the Arnot grounds. Several Elmirans have joined the show. Elmira Telegram (Elmira, NY), April 22, 1894, n.p.n.
Thomas and James Dolan's Deland's circus exhibited in Elmira [New York] yesterday. Elmira Telegram (Elmira, NY), October 14, 1894, p. 8.
1896:
Notes from the DeLand's Shows. We have been out two weeks. Our company consists of J. Fred De Land, proprietor; Art L. Selby, business manager; Prof. Charles Cooms, leader of band; Eddie De Alva, outside ascension; Fred Ostrander, Master Dan De Land, Tom Keating, Fred Styles, Charlie Barclay, Charles De Lucir, J. Platt Warren, Jack Gorman, Yan-Kee, Billie Coverly, Morton and Coles, Steve Roberst, cook, and one assistant; Tom Grimes, hostler and two assistants. We use a 70ft. round top and 30ft. middle piece. Travel by wagon, with twenty-three head of stock. J. Fred Deland purchased a pony to break, at Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, last week. We are now in the lumber regions, playing toward the oil field. New York Clipper, June 20, 1896, p. 246.
1897:
Notes from De Land's Circus. We are traveling through Pennsylvania to fair business, but the weather has been very bad. James F. De Land, proprietor and manager . . . Eddie De Alva, equestrian director; Prof. Borland's Band; De Land Bros. . . . Dr. De Alva, Tony De Land, Otto Whitman, Kid Smith, Jack Borland and Ed Keeney. Tommy Madden has charge of stock. . . . New York Clipper, August 28, 1897, p. 423.
1898: Notes from the De Land Shows. Our route will be through New York and Pennsylvania. Dr. E. H. De Alva will be manager; Tony De Land, leader of band; Jack Borland, leader of orchestra. Performers: Eddie De Alva, Dan De Land, Sig. Govani, Tom Dolan, Paddy Buens, principal clown; Maud Beatty Sissy Anderson and the Blue Sisters. Jas. F. De Land is proprietor. New York Clipper, May 7, 1898, p. 160.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Delavan's - 1886-89 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1885-88
1886:
Harry Cunningham has engaged for the Summer with Delavan's Pavilion Show as stage manager, and to make inside announcements. His third season with Delavan. New York Clipper, April 24, 1886, p. 83.
Hugo, the Egyptian juggler, has signed with the Delavan Show for the Summer. New York Clipper, April 24, 1886, p. 83.
Wanted, people in all branches of circus and variety business. People who can do two and more turn. Musical team and musicians, serio-comic and sketch artist. This is my fourth season. Season good until Oct. 1. Weeks stands. T. H. Delavan, Delavan's United Tent Show, Meriden, Ct. New York Clipper, July 24, 1886, p. 300.
1887:
T. H. Delavan Show: T. H. Delavan, manager; J. J. Spears, assistant manager and boss canvasman; Ed. Spears, assistant and manager of transportation; Prof. Geo. Bernard, leader of band of seventeen pieces . . . Frank Howard, lithgraph agent; Daniel King, programmer; Laverne Sisters, Ed. C. Smith and Jessie Carl, Francis and Ducrow, Lavigne Bros., Frank La Rose, Fox and Ward . . . Tom Jarvis, William Lavelle, Frank Davis, Fred Wenzel, Max August, Fred C. Kingman and the Laverne Family. The show travels by rail and will be confined exclusively to the Eastern States. New York Clipper, June 4, 1887, p. 180.
Wanted for the Delevan United Circus, circus people in all branches of the business. Want riders that have their own stock, principal and four horse jockey and hurdle, aerial artists, tumblers, acrobats, clowns, and concert people. Sideshow and all privileges for sale. Address T. W. Delevan, Opera house, Meridan, Ct. The old show is still on the road. New York Clipper, June 25, 1887, p. 237.
At Biddeford, Me., Aug. 31, an attachment was placed on T. H. Delevan's Show to recover a claim against the proprietor for damage incurred in the accident near Berwick, Me., Aug. 28, alleged to have been caused by circus donkeys. Delevan will fight the case. New York Clipper, September 10, 1887, p. 407.
St. Louis, Missouri. Delevan's United Tent Show was attached at Belleville Sept. 27 for a board bill of $141.85 due the Hotel Garnier of this city. The sheriff took the tent and outfit, but the performance will go on in the theatre there. W. C. Howard, the contracting agent of the show, left them and came over to St. Louis. New York Clipper, November 5, 1887, p. 535.
1888:
Delavan Consolidated Shows for season of 1888. Wanted, people in all branches of the circus business. Riders, leapers, tumblers, contortionists, jugglers, gymnasts, double trapeze artists, bar performers, concert people and specialty people who can play brass in band; also musicians, agent, lithographer and programmer, boss canvasman and canvasmen. Also want one baggage car and one dining room and sleeping car. Sideshow and candy privileges for sale. Warner & Saxton & Co., proprietors. Address T. H. Delavan, business manager, Meriden, Ct. New York Clipper, January 28, 1888, p. 746.
News comes that the Delavan Circus has disbanded, owing to bad debts and overdue salaries. The show had been touring Massachusetts and New England. New York Clipper, June 23, 1888, p. 234.
1889:
Wanted, for the New England Amphitheatre and Circus Company for 1889, ring and stage performers, scene riders with stock, and double trapeze artists. Brother acts, bar performers, contortionists, wire walkers and jugglers, singing clowns, serio-comic, Dutch and Irish comedians, sketch artists, musical teams and black face song and dance artists. Want also to hear from combinations, stars, variety, minstrels, comedy and comic opera companies with repertoire. Open road season May 6. Address T. H. Delavan, Meriden, Ct. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, February 23, 1889, p. 808.
Edward S. Duffy has signed to furnish the orchestra for the Delavan Show. New York Clipper, April 6, 1889, p. 57.
Want to sell one-half interest in my circus; eighth successful season opens July 1; will sell one-half for $1,200, $800 cash down, balance 60 days; tent seats 2,500 people; partner to sell tickets and act as treasurer. Address T. H. Delavan, Delavan Opera House, Meriden, Conn. [Advertisement] Boston Globe (Boston, MA), June 23, 1889, p. 15.
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Delavan, Adams & Palmer's Tent Specialty Show - 1884
C. B. Palmer sold his interest in the show to Mr. Hicks. New York Clipper, June 7, 1884, p. 182. Showed in Pawtucket, Rhode Island. New York Clipper, July 26, 1884, p. 299.
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DeLeon's Circus - 1884, 1886 Leon De Leon's Circus (Havana)
1884:
Havana, Cuba. The following performers engaged by Leon De Leon sailed from New York Dec. 29 and will probably open Jan. 4: Geo. Brown and Emma Jutau, Sylvio, the Siegrist Bros., MacDonald Family, Robert Stickney, Carl Bros. and Baldwin, Mlle. Turnour, Lottie Aymar, Onofroi Bros., Chas. Bliss, Francois and Eugene Kennebel, Jas. E. Cooke, I. Jerome, A. Buislay, Alexis Scafar, Wash. Antonio, G. Dunbar (properties), and the canvasmen and others necessary. New York Clipper, January 5, 1884, p. 712.
1886:
Wanted, for Leon's Metropolitan Circus, Theatre, Garden, Museum and Menagerie, for opening Oct. 15, male and female riders, gymnasts, acrobats, tumblers and leapers, jugglers and clowns, variety and specialty acts, not dependent on English language. Also dwarfs, giants and performing animals for museum. Leon De Leon, Havana, Cuba. New York Clipper, July 3, 1886, p. 252.
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DeMack's - 1894
Notes from De Mack's Big Show. Show opens on May 12 at Walcotville, New York. Roster: Billy De Mack, sole proprietor and manager; Lyman Lindsey, treasurer. Performers: Minnie De Mack, Anna Hayes, Minnie May Cory, Irving Bros., Will and Tom; Billy Furlong, Harry Hoffman, James Atkinson, boss canvasman and a band of six mouth pieces under the leadership of Charles Johnson. New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 149.
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Demarest's - 1918
Barney Demarest is preparing for the coming season and with his two-car show will have many features. The white standard bred trotting mare, Sunshine, bought by Mr. Demarest from Joe Greer, Bloomington, Wis., will be one of the features, doing a posing and high school act with Demarest's Horse Show and Wild West Shows Combined. Last year this animal was ridden by Etta Meyers with the Walter L. Main Shows. Billboard, November 16, 1918, p. 26.
Demarest's Horse Show and Wild West Shows Combined, 1919-20 season, a two 70-foot car show. Wanted, people in all branches. Performers must do two or more acts. Want two lady high school and high jumping horse riders. No horses wanted. Show owns its own stock. Opens early in April, Newark, N.J. Would buy small elephant. This is a summer and winter show. Barney H. Demarest, general manager, Newark, N.J. [Advertisement] Billboard, November 16, 1918, p. 27.
Barney H. Demarest has decided to enlarge his show the coming season, and the title will be changed to Demarest Bros.' Circus and Wild West Shows Combined. Mr. Demarest has just purchased five black stallions that do a high school and liberty act. The act will be worked by a lady. Mr Demarest will act as general manager and Chas. P. Farrington as general agent. Billboard, November 30, 1918, p. 54.
It is learned that Sig Sautelle, veteran circus man, has decided to get into official harness again and has formed a partnership with Barney H. Demarest for putting out a circus and Wild West combined. The title will be Sig Sautelle's Circus and Demarest Bros.' Wild West Combined. Charles P. Farrington will be general agent. Billboard, December 7, 1918, p. 52.
• See Sig. Sautelle's.
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DeMott & Ward's - 1868
[Advertisement] DeMott & Ward's United Circus and Menagerie. Organized and equipped in New York City for the season of 1868, with new canvas, new vans and chariots, new cages, beautiful and appropriate appointments. The wonderful dwarf elephant, "Fanny," two years old; 30 inches high; weighs 260 pounds; the smallest ever exhibited in any country. Prof. Thompson's great performing bull, the multiform feats of this animal in the ring surpasses ballet, and have been classed among the wonders of the 19th century. Prof. Geo. Forepaugh's matchless trained wild animals.
M'lle Josephine Tourniaire, premiere equestrienne and maitresse du cheval. Miss Carline Ward, the "Elfin Star" of the arena. Madame DeMott, the celebrated classic equestrienne. Madame Carlotta, the dashing and dauntless equestrienne and "Sprite of the Ring." Mr. J. DeMott, whose beautiful and daring equestrian presentations have gained him the title of the "Winged Mercury." Mr. J. Ward, the model clown, jester and grotesque, the great multiform performer of the profession. As a slack rope performer and in plate spinning, juggling, &c. Mr. Ward has no equal. Mr. James Myers, the genial and original jester. Mr. Charles Morgan, the celebrated clown.
The Arabian Brothers, wonderful athletes in their picturesque and agile groupings, vaulltings. Theodore Tourniaire, a prominent member of the illustrious family that have challenged the admiration of the world. Misses Irene Carleton and Jenny Carneal. Madames Sivori, Barton and Underhill. Messrs. LaBlache, Polenski, Henderson, Bartow & Jay, together with a full compliment corps of grooms, ushers and attendants.
The menagerie department is managed by Mr. George Forepaugh. The comical troupe of acting bears. A herd of Japanese sheep. The dwarf elephant, "Fanny," will be caparisoned at each entertainment with a splendid oriental houdah, or elephant saddle, in which children from among the audience will be allowed the novelty of an elephant ride. The paragon of wonders, the running bison, or, leaping buffalo. A real riding act, achieved on his back by capturer and trainer, Alphonze Micardo, who will impel him over gates, bars and obstacles, the most electric performance given in a circle.
The procession will enter the town at 10 o'clock a.m., led by Professor Kane's Metropolitan Silver Cornet Band. Followed by the dwarf elephant "Fanny," borne upon a richly decorated car, and the entire retinue of vans, chariots, tableaux cars and cages. Admission 50 cents. Children under 12 y'rs, 25 cents. Doors opne at 2 and 7 p.m. Performances to commence half an hour later. Star and Sentinel (Gettysburg, PA), June 3, 1868, n.p.n.
• 1868: online at:
Clipper, March 28, Clipper, May 16, Clipper, June 20 (scroll down)
Clipper, June 27, Clipper, July 18, Clipper, July 25 (scroll down)
Clipper, August 15, Clipper, September 5, Clipper, October 17 (scroll down)
• Brief information on an 1868 "affray" on this show at Lawrenceburg. Show was afterward to be in Florence, Kentucky, September 1st; Covington, 2nd; and Newport, 3d. In White Tops, Sept-Oct-Nov, 1943, Vol. 16, Nos. 10, 11, 12, p. 11.
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DeMott's Combined Shows - 1911-14 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-12
1911: Preparations for the coming season are going on at DeMott's Combined Show's headquarters near Tower, Mich. New animals have been added to the menagerie, the latest a young buck elk, to be broken to harness. Prof. Frank Caswell, contortionist, has again been signed, also M. L. Bisbee, horizontal bar and equilibrist. Billboard, March 11, 1911, p. 21.
1912: DeMott's Combined Shows. C. A. and I. K. DeMott, props.; Chester A. DeMott, mgr.; Isabella K. DeMott, treas.; Chas. Schoolcraft, advance press agent; Mrs. Chester A. DeMott, press agent back with show; Mark L. Bisbee, musical director; Harrison J. DeMott, supt. reserved seat tickets; Oscar DeMott, supt. canvas; R. E. Beuney Sr., boss hostler; Lew Doremeir, supt. properties; Chas. Hilliker, supt. working crew; Lester O. DeMett, supt. animals. Show opens at Morley, Mich., May 10. Billboard, March 23, 1912, p. 97.
1913: Wanted, to join DeMott's Combined Shows. Cornet, baritone, tuba, sketch team, song and dance people, acrobats, etc. Wagon shows. Eat on lot, sleep in wagon cars. Show opens May 20, Epsilon, Mich. Address Chester A. DeMott, manager. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 17, 1913, p. 50.
1914:
DeMott's Combined Shows. C. A. & I. K. Demott, proprietors; Chester A. DeMott, manager; Mrs. Chester A. DeMott, treasurer & secretary; I. K. DeMott, press agent; London Blunt, general supt.; Mrs. Chester A. DeMott, supt. privileges; Chas. DeLeon, musical director; Wm. Lown, supt. canvas; Claude Brock, supt. lights; Chas. Hilliker, supt. props; Mr. Gilbert, announcer. Show opens near Morley, Michigan, May 14. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
Frank LaBarr, novelty contortionist, has signed with DeMott's Combined Shows for the coming season. Billboard, April 4, 1914, p. 25.
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Denby & Co.'s Transcontinental Circus - 1884 show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1884
Dan Fitzgerald has re-equipped Denby's Transcontinental Show and Congress of Living Wonders which will take the road for a trip through the Pacific Coast, april 20. The present engagements are Leo and Bactnor(?), gymnasts; Red Hawk, a Patagonian Indian bareback rider; Harry Tyler and troupe of trained dogs; Welsh and King; William Morgan and his six trained stallions, and the Marvels of Peru. New York Clipper, April 5, 1884, p. 38.
Denby & Co.'s Transcontinental Circus opened its season at Antioch, Cal., May 8. Siegrist, Durand and Evans, Irwin, Leo and Heatner, Walsh and King, Munroe and Williams, Prof. Williams' dogs and monkey circus and others are with this show, which has forty horses and as many attaches. New York Clipper, May 17, 1884, p. 134.
[Advertisement] E. D. Denby & Co.'s Great Transcontinental Circus. Mons. August Seigrist, high tight rope performers. The marvels of Peru, Seigrist, Durand, Evans, feats of strenght and agility. Neoskeleta, daughter of the Chippewas, in her lightning drill. Leo & Bratner, trapeze performers. Miss Sadie Ross, skipping rope artiste. Fred Irving, clown. Billy King, singing clown. Mlle. Camille Laroux. Wm. Organ's eight trained horses. Will perform at Placerville, June 21st at 8 o'clock. Admission $1, children under 10, 50c. Mountain Democrat (Placerville, CA), June 21, 1884, n.p.n.
Frank Le Laney is traveling in California with Denby & Co.'s Circus, and writes us that business is good with that show. New York Clipper, July 12, 1884, p. 270.
The death of Henry Baldwin, boss hostler, reported. New York Clipper, July 19, 1884, p. 286.
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Denver Dick's Wild West
• Information on this show is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1994, p. 34.
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DeOnzo & Hammond - 1907
Wm. DeOnzo, of the DeOnzo & Hammond Shows, was a Billboard caller Feb. 20. He reported that his firm will, this season have out also a pavilion show, both shows to open about May 1. Everything is hustle at the headquarters in Cambridge, Ohio. Billboard, March 2, 1907, p. 26.
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Deuel's - 1894-95, 1898, 1912-13
1894:
Notes from Deuel's Equine and Canine Paradox: ?. B. Crayford has signed with the show as general agent. George Day as boss canvas man and "Shorty" ___ will preside over the Hotel Deuel during the season. New York Clipper, March 3, 1894, p. 833.
C. P. Maxwell has signed with Deuel's Equines as leader of band. New York Clipper, March 17, 1894, p. 21.
1895:
Deuel's Equine and Canine Paradox will have four more ponies this season, making fourteen ponies and sixty dogs. The season opens May 4. They will carry a 90ft. top with two 30ft. middle pieces; a 40ft. dressing tent, a 20x40 horse tent, and will travel in two cars. New York Clipper, March 30, 1895, p. 55.
New Albany, Indiana. Deuel's Equine and Canine Paradox will open its season 1 instead of 27 as reported. New York Dramatic Mirroe, May 11, 1895, p. 6.
• 1898: Urbana, Ohio. W. M. Deuel, of Joliet, Ill., owner of Deuel's Equine and Canine Show, was called here by the illness of his mother. Mr. Deuel has recently purchased a half interest in the People's Theatre at Joliet. New York Dramatic Mirror, May 28, 1898, 6.
1912: Deuel Dog and Pony Show - G. R. and W. M. Deuel, props.; G. R. Deuel, mgr.; Mrs. W. M. Deuel, treasurer; F. H. Deuel, general agent; O. K. Tyre, supt. privileges; Chas. Johnson, supt. canvas; Orvil Conlinger, boss hostler; Chas Rakestraw, supt. properties. Show opens at New Albany, Ind., April 27. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
1913: Deuel's Dog & Pony Show - W. M. Deuel, proprietor; Geo. R. Deuel, manager and treasurer; F. H. Deuel, agent; Chas. W. Johnson, boss hostler; J. A. Baxwell, superintendent canvas; Howard Thirlon, superintendent props; Show opens at Clinton, Tenn., May 1. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
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Prof. Deval's Wonder Circus - 1944 (India)
• Article on this show is in White Tops, April-May, 1944, Vol. 17, Nos. 5-6, p. 9.
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DeVaux, Clark & Burt's Railroad Circus & Caravan - 1886 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1886
Wanted for De Vaux, Clark & Burt's Railroad Circus and Caravan, circus and concert people in all branches, trained animals, freaks for sideshow attraction, band and orchestra. Privileges for sale. Canvasmen, grooms and billposters. Open May 1. Address J. J. DeVaux, Platt street, Toledo, O. New York Clipper, March 13, 1886, p. 832.
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DeVaux Dog & Pony Circus - 1911-14 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-14
1911: De Vaux Dog & Pony Circus opened on the 17th of April in California and will close about January 1, 1912, at Los Angeles, where the show will winter. The show started with three cars and will close with five cars. Eighteen ponied, twelve draft horses, fourteen cages, four goats, and nineteen dogs are carried. J. J. De Vaux is sole owner and manager; Fred Bardell, assistant manager and treasurer; Joseph Childs, secretary; Chas. Jones, boss canvasman with eleven assistants; Wm. Blackledge, boss hostler with five assistants; and Mrs. Jordan, wardrobe. Ed Cook is master of transportation with five assistants. The cook house is in charge of Frank Meddy with three assistants; the cars are in charge of Sambo Johnson and wife. The advance is under Peter Weaver; Ed Holbrook in charge of paper; Billie Burk, program; Ed Miller, banners, and Chas. Bauman. Ralph Harper and Bud Sellers, billposters.
The performers are the Gilldmen(?), five in number, return act; Mabel Singe, traps; Sadondi, roman rings; Bessie & Louis, double traps; Zeller Bros., brother act and horizontal bars, and the Seymours, double wire act. Leader of band, Chas. Woolf; Billie Bean, cornet; Chas. Burt, trombone; Burt Beddle, tuba; Jas. Ryan, baritone; Sam Clark, cornet; Lew Somons, clarinet; Tom Durr, alto, and Peter Murich, traps. The show did not lose a performance this season, had no blowdowns, in the thirty-two weeks to date. Only losing day was at Harrisburg, Ohio. The sideshow is in charge of the Grays. Billboard, November 25, 1911, p. 27.
1912: DeVeaux Dog and Pony Circus - O'Brine, Welch and Thompson, props.; John J. O'Brine, mgr.; J. Welch, treas.; Fred Burtell, auditor; Chas. Thompson, general agent; E. Holl/Hoil(?), railroad contractor; J. Waldo, local contractor; J. Weber, special agent; Chas. Burt, advance press agent; Fred Giliond, excursion agent; Fred Drake, mgr. side show; Jos Wasson, equestrian director; Fred Seymour, general supt.; F. B. Burdell, supt. privileges; Prof. Chas. Wold, musical director; Harold Rhodes, supt. reserved seat tickets; John Syemore, supt. canvas; Ed. Cook, trainmaster; Wm. Blackledge, boss hostler; Sam Johnson, supt. commissary dept.; Frank Meddy, supt. lights; Billie Burk, supt. properties; Frank Blackledge, spt. ring stock; W. Blackledge, supt. stock; Chas. Jones, supt. working crew; Burt Gilion, twenty-four-hour agent; Lloyd Wolf, boss carpenter; Frank Pate, supt. animals; Billie Miller, blacksmith; Joseph Childs, mgr. advertising car No. 1; Chas Bauman, checker-up; Jack Welsh, legal adjuster; B. F. Drayers, announcer. Show opened at El Paso, Tex., March 2. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
1913: De Vaux's Dog and Pony Show - O'Brien and Welch, proprietors; J. O'Brien, manager; Chas. Thompson, assistant manager; Joe Childs, treasurer; Lewis Levingood, secretary; Squire Landon, auditor; John Webber, general agent; Charley Thompson, railroad contractor; J. Webber, local contractor; Bert Brown, special agent; Doc Ruthiford, contracting press agent; Wm. Burt, excursion agent; Chas. Mitchell, sideshow manager; J. O'Brien, equestrian director; John Reno, general superintendent; Jack Johnson, superintendent privileges; Chas. Wolf, musical director; Albert Martin, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Toney St. Aubin, superintendent canvas; Burt Bedle, trainmaster; Wm. Blackledge, boss hostler; Fred Seyman, superintendent lights; Roger Jones, superintendent props; Frank Blackedge, superintendent ring stock; Billy Blackledge, superintendent stock; St. Aubin, superintendent working crew; F. B. Cambell, 24-hour agent; R. Jones, bos carpenter; F. Blackledge, superintendent animals; J. Devaux, blacksmith; J. Webber, manager advertising car No. 1; Sam Johnson, checker-up; Burt Perry, legal adjuster; C. Mitchel, announcer. Show opens at Hayes, Cal., April 5. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1914: De Vaux Dog & Pony Circus. O'Brien, Welsh & Thompson, proprietors; Charley Thompson, manager; Fred Burdell, asst. manager & treasurer; Jos. Childs, secretary; Capt. Walsh, auditor; Peter Weaver, general agent; Ed. Holbrook, railroad contractor; Ed. Burk, local contractor; Ralph Harper, special agent; Bud Sellers, contracting press agent; Chas. Bauman, advance press agent; Charley Jones, press agent back with show & excursion agent; Joe Wasson, manager sideshow; Jack O'Brien, equestrian direcotr; Ed. Cooke, general supt.; Frank Meddy, supt. privileges; Prof. Chas. Woolf, musical director; Ernest Wasson, supt. reserved seat tickets; Wm. Blacklidge, supt. canvas; Ed. Cooke, trainmaster; Jas. J. Jones, boss hostler; Wm. Bean, supt. commissary dept.; J. Ryan, supt. lights; Sam Clarke, supt. props; Frank Blacklidge, supt. ring stock; Lew Simons, supt. stock; Tom Durr, supt. working crew; Pete Munch, 24-hour agent; Chas. Burt, boss carpenter; Burt Beedle, supt. animals; Jack Johnson, blacksmith; Wm. Weaver, manager advance car No. 1; Tom Finand, manager advance car No. 2; W. J. Blacklidge, checker-up; Chas. E. Ryan, legal adjuster; Joe Wasson, announcer. Show opens at Downey, California, March 21. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
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DeVaux's Electric-light Show - 1885
Season starts May 1. Advertised for personnel. New York Clipper, April 11, 1885, pp. 62, 63.
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Charley DeVere's - 1861
• 1861: is online at Clipper, April 6, Clipper, April 13 (scroll down)
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Frank Devere's - 1901-02
1901:
Homer, June 12. Frank S. Devere's circus will appear in Homer on Jun 18th. Evening Herald (Syracuse, NY), June 12, 1901, p. 13.
Frank S. Devere is advertised to be in this place June 19, with his circus. He has trained dogs, also trapeze performing, comic songs, clog dancing, tight wire walking, other attractions, and a brass band. Cortland Democrat (Cortland, NY), June 14, 1901, p. 8.
1902: Wanted, quick. People in all lines of the circus business except riders. Also cornet, baritone and trombone players. Frank S. Devere, Port Leyden, Lewis, Co., N.Y. New York Clipper, June 28, 1902, p. 397.
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Frank Devere's New London Show
The New London Show is meeting with success thru the Carolinas, playing week stands, using a good line of bills and several vaudeville acts. The management has purchased another new auto truck, making three in all. The company includes Frank Devere, owner and manager; Mrs. Devere, leads; Kayto Wilson, specialties; Mr and Mrs George Cox, characters; Lorence Bombarger, juvenile parts; P. Spradling, director; Frencis Devere, vaudeville specialties; and a working crew of six men. Billboard, October 27, 1917, p. 29.
Frank Devere's New London Show is again touring North Carolina after a layoff of one week, due to a blow-down. Billboard, June 23, 1917, p. 20.
• Although the show is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1917, the above indicates that the 1917 show may not have been a circus.
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Harry DeVere & Co.'s - 1875
Harry De Vere & Co.'s Athletorian and Novelty Circus is to start on the road from Calvert, Texas, about April 15. New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, p. 23.
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DeWayne Bros. - 1947, 1962 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1947-1972
• Information on the 1947 DeWayne Bros. show is online in "California Circuses," in Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 1967 (scroll down or use find).
• Article on the 1962 DeWayne Bros. show is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1962 (scroll down or use find).
• De Wayne Bros., 1974. Bandwagon, January-February, 1975.
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De Wolf's New York - 1897
Notes from De Wolf's New York Circus. Jim Groh joined the show last week with his stilts and perch pole, along with Master Groh, tight wire. Frank Field, female impersonator, and Frank Hanson, strong man. We take the road next week and travel by rail. Al Cummings, of the Cummings Bros., Roman ring performers, had a fall from the high trapeze, but escaped without injury. We will put in a 30ft. middle piece before we go out on the road. New York Clipper, June 12, 1897, p. 235.
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Diamond Bar Wild West - 1908-09
1908:
Ben Holmes has closed his Diamond Bar Ranch Wild West Show and has stored the outfit in wintequarters at Evansville, Indiana. He has taken out the Ben Holmes Vaudeville Company for the winter season, carrying ten people and a band of nine pieces. Billboard, November 28, 1908, p. 19.
1909:
Mr. and Mrs. Ben Holmes have concluded a successful four weeks' vaudeville engagement in New Orleans and have returned to the Diamond Bar Ranch, where their Wild West Show will open March 15. Billboard, February 27, 1909, p. 19.
Tommie H. Wilkes, the singing clown, who has been appearing in vaudeville in the South, has canceled all future dates to join the Diamond Bar Wild West. Billboard, March 27, 1909, p. 10.
The Diamond Bar Ranch Wild West Show opened its season March 22 at Helena, Arkansas, and is booked solid, under Ben Holmes' management, up to September first. New York Dramatic Mirror, May 1, 1909, p. 14.
• Also see Ben Holmes Wild West.
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Diano Bros. - 1953 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1953
• Anthony Diano and Ben Davenport may have shared ownership. Diano pulled out of the show mid-season and Davenport continued the season under the title Wallace Bros. An article on the show and the career of Tony Diano is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1971, Vol. 15, No. 4, pp. 4-13.
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Dickman's - 1946
• Bob Dickman, owner, 1946.
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Dick's New Model - 1888, 1890 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888-1891
1888: A specialty company to travel under canvas to tour the Midwest. Had 15 people, a 9 piece band, 25 cent admission. Had fair business June 25-27 at Ottumwa, Iowa. New York Clipper, May 19, 1888, p. 153; July 7, 1888, p. 263.
1890: Dick's New Model Circus, Museum & Menagerie advertised for a Pete Jenkins rider, an Indian act, side show freaks, concert people - Dick P. Sutton, Ottumwa, Iowa. New York Clipper, September 20, 1890, p. 444.
• Dick's Model Show, out of Ottumwa, Iowa, Dick P. Sutton, owner. Billboard, December 9, 1922, p. 73.
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Diefenbach - 1886-89, 1890-97 or Dieffenbach
1886:
Logansport is to have another dime circus, "Diffenbaugh's [sic] Greatest Dime Show on Earth," has made arrangements to exhibit here next Monday night, when their tents will be spread. A. M. Ormbaugh, advance agent, says the show will stand on its merits and will need no advertising. They come here from Peru where they show tonight. Logansport Daily Journal (Logansport, IN), July 10, 1886, n.p.n.
Phil Defanbough's [sic] Ten-cent Circus is reported to be a neat, clean show, with an excellent band. It was showing across the river from Peru, Ind., last week. New York Clipper, July 17, 1886, p. 281.
1887:
The roster of the Trans-Atlantic Dime Show: P. Diefenbach, manger with three assistants; F. Hill, general agent car No. 1 with ten assistants; Ed Blakely, boss canvasman with twenty assistants; John Black, master of stock with five assistants; S. Lee, elephant trainer and lion king. Size of canvas, fifty foot round top with three ten foot middle pieces and a three pole menagerie top. The company: Smart and Syder, Tom Tandy . . . Jolly John Murry, Dave Martin, Emmitt Denison, Eddie Day, T. W. Rice's military brass and reed band. New York Clipper, August 20, 1887, p. 356.
The Diefenbach Show closed its season at Starkeville, Miss., Nov. 22. The company: Ed. Day, W. V. Brown, Shaw Gonzalles . . . the Loyall Sisters, Frank Miller, F. P. Hill. Chas. Hoff and Harry Perkins. are quartered at manager Diefenbach's Hotel in Milan, Tenn., the Winter quarters of the show. New York Clipper, December 3, 1887, pp. 602, 603.
1888:
Diefenbach's Transatlantic Circus. Business staff: P. Diefenbach, manager; Charles R. Hunt, general agent; Thos. M. Carter, E. Huff, Ed. Harding. Performers: Seevey Bros. . . . Rose and Ella Van Zandt, Dan Maloney, D. W. Rogers, Emmet Dennison, Eddie Day, Chas. Huff and Happy Dave Martin. Twelve Manitoba Indians, headed by Setting Sun with Cold Water Dick(?), lecturer and interpreter, compose the Wild West Shows. The troupe opened their season March 29 and have been playing through Kentucky, Tennessee and Illinois. New York Clipper, May 5, 1888, p. 123.
The P. Diefenbach Circus met with its first serious accident in four years June 21, at Champaign, Ill, by the tents being stripped to pieces during a fierce storm. Manager Diefenbach secured a new canvas and resumed his tour at Danville, Ill. New York Clipper, June 30, 1888, p. 251.
Tifflin, Ohio. The Trans-Atlantic Circus stranded here July 31, being attached by some of the company for salaries. New York Clipper, August 11, 1888, p. 343.
The Diefenbach Dime Show report good business through Mississippi and the Southwest. They will shortly try Texas, and will stay on the road all Winter. New York Clipper, December 8, 1888, p. 627.
1889:
Diefenbach's New Trans-Atlantic Shows crossed the river at Cairo, Ill., last week and are now playing through Southern Illinois. Roster: P. Diefenbach, sole proprietor and manager . . . J. J. Zamora and wife, the Mexican Trio, the Seery Bros., the brass band under G. W. McDonald, leader; Eddie Day, A. Hoddy. New York Clipper, May 18, 1889, p. 161.
Notes from Diefenbach's Show. J. J. Zamora left for Ashley, Ill, Aug. 1, learning that his wife was very low. Three days later manager Diefenbach received a telegram from Mr. Zamora stating that his wife died at midnight. Mr. Diefenbach postponed the show until next day on account of Mrs. Zamora's death. The members of the company were all in mourning during that day, showing their respect to the deceased. The Sexton Bros., contortionists; Duffy and Gillespie, knock-about clowns, and Prof. Bailey, tuba player, joined at Bluffton, Ind. Mr. Zamora came back to the show the same day. He left his baby boy doing well. The show is doing splendid business, and everyone is making preparations for the trip South, where the show will remain all Winter, playing through the cotton country. New York Clipper, August 17, 1889, p. 372.
The Diefenbach Show crossed the Mississippi at Cairo, Oct. 1(?), on their Southern Winter tour. . . . Ed Guthrie joined at Carbondale and is making a hit with his flying Japanese perch act. . . . The show reaches New Orleans in a fortnight or so. Frank Gillespie is as merry a clown as ever. New York Clipper, November 2, 1889, p. 567.
Notes from the Diefenbach Show. While we were showing at Utica, Miss., Nov. 12(?), one of the worst rain and wind storms ever experienced by this show struck the canvas and tore it nearly to pieces. We were obliged to lay still for two days, making repairs. We were to show at Fayette 13 and Natchez 14, but were forced to miss those towns. Mr. West, boss canvasman, received a cut on the head, by one of the quarter poles striking him. He is not seriously hurt. New York Clipper, November 23, 1889, p. 615.
1890:
Notes from the Diefenbach Show. Manager Diefenbach reports good business throughout the South. The only losing week that the show has had in five years was the week before Christmas at New Orleans. The show left New Orleans Dec. 28, and is now at Jackson. This is their third engagement there within nine weeks. New York Clipper, January 11, 1890, p. 732.
Notes from Diefenbach’s Show. Good business has been the rule all winter, and everybody is well and happy. Many handsome and valuable presents were exchanged by the members of the troupe on Christmas. Manager Diefenbach was presented with a handsome shaving set by John Seery . . . New York Clipper, January 18, 1890, p. 749.
The Diffenbach Show closed its season at ___, Miss., Feb. 9(?), and shipped direct to winter quarters at Murphysboro, Ill. The entire company have been re-engaged for next season. Manager F. Diffenbach and wife, Chas. Huff(?), J. J. Zampra(?) . . . Frank Gillespie(?), Steve Rogers . . . are at Murphysboro, Ill. . . . Pete(?) Anderson and Wm. Rutherford at Mount Vernon, Ill.; John Smith at New Orleans, La. . . . and Herbert Swift(?) at Jackson, Miss. The company will open their next season at Murphyboro, Ill. early in April . . . New York Clipper, February 15, 1890, p. 806.
A strong specialty wanted for Diffenbach's Great Trans-Atlantic Show. The most popular price show on the road. Season opens early in April at Murphysboro, Illinois. Candy stand and sideshow privilege to rent. . . . Also wanted a No. 1 boss canvasman, Address P. Diffenbach, Laclade(?) Hotel, Murphysboro, Ill. New York Clipper, March 1, 1890, p. 850.
On the Road, Circuses: Diefenbech's, Carbondale, Pa., April 21-26. New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 98.
Diffenbach's Circus opened their season at Murphysboro, Ill., April __. They have a brand new canvas, and, a repainting, repairing and remodeling had been thoroughly done during the vacation. Everything looked as bright as a new silver dollar. The prospects are extremely good for a successful season, if the opening performances count for anything. Marella Myers and Valvo(?) have made special hits. The complete roster: P. Dieffenbach, sole proprietor and manger; C. W. Hud(?), assistant manager; Ike Fellows, advance agent; Martella Myers . . . John Sexton, Bennie(?) Sexton . . . Chas. W. Burch, Harry Morris, Frank Keeble(?), Steve Rogers . . . Concert: Frank Gillespie, Chas. W. Burch, E. H. Day . . . Chas.(?) Winchester, George Prudy . . . Q. Marshall, boss canvasman; Chas. Wesley, chandelier man . . . New York Clipper, April 26, 1890, p. 103.
Notes from Diefenbach's Show. Good business is now the rule, but on our first four weeks out we gave only night performances, "all on account of rain." Everybody is well. The ___ Bros. and Maretta Myers are making hits in the big show, and Charles W. Burch(?) and Frank Gillespie are doing well in the concert. New York Clipper, June 7, 1890, p. 197.
Ike Fellows has left Diefenbach's Shows on account of sickness. New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 243.
Notes from Diefenbach's Trans-Atlantic Show. We are doing a good business through the rural districts of Illinois. Pete Conklin joined us June 1? at Richmond, Ind. He appeared in the ring with Mr. Diefenbach. As they approached the entrance after an absence of fourteen years they were greeted with storms of applause from the enthusiastic crowd that packed the large canvas. The two Sexton Bros. are doing a fine double contortion act. . . . Frank Gillespie, the knockabout clown, never fails to make a hit. Our band of eighteen pieces is one of the leading features with the show. The man in white appears just the same whether it rains or shines. New York Clipper, June 28, 1890, p. 243.
Notice to glass blowers. A good privilege for the right party and a long season. Would like to hear from parties that run glass stands and all kinds of sideshow people for Diefenbach's Big Show. Address Peter Conklin, manager of sideshow, Danville, Ill. July 15, 16, Champaign, Ill, July 17, 18. New York Clipper, July 19, 1890, p. 304.
St. Louis, Missouri. Pete Conklin, the well known clown, was in the city last week. He has left the Diefenbach Show, and will join James A. Bennett's Show at San Antonio, Tex. New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 471.
Notes from Diefenbach's Show. We have been playing to good business, but have encountered considerable rain. We have made some changes in the company, strengthening it for the South. . . . Our roster: P. Diefenbach, proprietor and manager; Chas. W. Burch, equestrian director; Mrs. Diefenbach . . . Sexton Bros.; Manuel and Cecil(?) Trevino; Roberta Trevino, Frank Gillespie, Lulu(?) Snyder . . . Steve Rogers; Ralph Bailey; Mat Parkhurst(?) and C. H. Piermon, advance. New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 503.
Notes from Diefenbach's Circus. We have been across the river on our annual Southern tour just a week now, and have encountered good weather and fairly good business. We jumped from Murphysboro, Ill., to Union City, Tenn. . . . the Trevinos and Tony Ashton, with his dogs, joined, making the show stronger for the South. Our roster: P. Diefenbach, proprietor and manager; Chas. W. Burch, equestrian director; Tony Ashton and his school of dogs; Sexton Bros.; Manuel(?) and Cecilia Trevino; Robarto Trevino; Frank Gillespie . . . Steve Rogers; Ralph Bailey; Mat Parkhurst . . . and W. H. Mack. We now have a baggage car and coach of our own, and everything is as comfortable and homelike as possible. New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 523.
On the Road, Circuses and Miscellaneous: Diefenbach's, Meridean, Miss., Nov. 10-??, Jackson, 17-22. New York Clipper, November 15, 1890, 560.
Notes from Diefenbach's Show. We have been in Mississippi about four weeks, and have been doing excellent business. The weather is fine, but a little cold, and the boys work to keep warm. We have made a big improvement in the programme by securing C. C. Mathews and Jessie(Jennie?) Dare, making the show stronger for this coujntry, and, judging by the houses, it is a very fetching show. At Jackson, Tenn., where we played one week, we turned people away the last three nights. . . . New York Clipper, November 15, 1890, 568.
On the Road, Circuses and Miscellaneous: Diefenbach's, Baton Rouge, La., Nov. 21-30, Plaquemine(?), Dec. 1-3, Donaldsonville, 4-6. New York Clipper, November 29, 1890, 595.
Notes from Diefenbach's Show. We played Jackson, Miss. all last week to good business. . . . Jessie Dare is making a hit with her trapeze work. C. C. Mathews always catches them with his cloud swinging. En route from Meridian to Jackson, Mr. Diefenbach lost his cane; so Monday morning the boys, unknown to Mr. D., bought him an elegant gold headed one, and at the night show, jsut before the last act, Mr. D. was persuaded to approach one of the centre poles to examine the lights. At the same time, Chas. B. Burch, our equestrian director, entered the ring, and, on behalf the company, presented to him the cane. To say that he was surprised would be expressing it tamely. He thanked the company in a few well chosen remarks, and retired amid applause. After the show the company repaired to the Edwards House, where an elegant collation(?) was appreciated by all. New York Clipper, November 29, 1890, 596.
1891:
Notes of the Diefenbach Show. Mr. Diefenbach has been very sick. He was taken with a chill at Meridian, Miss., but managed to reach Jackson, where he lay three weeks with typhoid pneumonia; but his wonderful constitution, combined with strong will power and Mrs. D.'s good nursing, brought him through O.K. Mrs. D. has been at Jackson for the last three months, on the sick list. The following is the company for the season of 1891: P. Diefenbach, proprietor and manager; Chas. W. Burch, assistant manager and equestrian director; C. C. Mathews, Jessie Dare, Bennie Sexton, Johnnie Sexton, Frank Seery, John Seery, Tom Tandy(?), Steve Rogers, Ralph Bailey, Jim Parkhurst, Mrs. Sallie Parkhurst, C. W. Burch, Herbert Swift, Leona Woodward and troupe of performing dogs and goats, Will J. Predmor's challenge cornet band and orchestra. Homer Davis has charge of the advance, R. W. Fisher of the privileges . . . New York Clipper, March 7, 1891, p. 826.
On the road, circuses: Diefenbach's, . . . Champaign, Ill. 14-16, Clinton 18, 19, Bloomington 20-23(?). New York Clipper, May 16, 1891, p. 171.
Notes from the Diefenbach Show. We opened the season at Seymour, Ind. . . . to good business. ___ Predmore has been on the sick list . . . P. Diefenbach, proprietor; Ed. Guthery(?) equestrian director; W. W. Murray . . . Larry Murphy, Steve Rodgers . . . Mrs. P. Diefenbach is enjoying good health with the show. Mrs. Ida Guthrie(?) is residing at Cincinnati, O. . . . William Hodson, boss property man, with two assistants. The white spectre has never failed to make its appearance. Ed. Guthrie, a trapeze performer, was considerably shaken up recently by falling from the bar(?) to the ground. He was swinging at full length, suspended by a strap attached to his partner's hand, when the strap slipped, and he fell . . . before striking the ground, thus saving his life. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
Reports from the Diefenbach Show announce business to be entirely satisfactory through Indiana and the West. Chas. H. Pierson is again in advance. All the people are in good health. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
Lace Milligan, clown, Diefenbach’s Circus, is ill, not able to rejoin. New York Dramatic News, August 15, 1891, p. 10.
Notes from the Diefenbach Circus. Ed. Guthrie, equestrian director, has entirely recovered from the fall he received several weeks ago. Mrs. Ida Guthrie joined the show at Alexandria, Ind., Aug. _, after laying off eight weeks at her home, Cincinnati. N.(?) W. Murray is making a big hit with his bar act. . . . Everybody is well with the show, and the man in white never fails to make his appearance. Manager Phil Diefenbach received bad news from home Aug. 22, to the effect that his father was dying. Manager Diefenbach started for his home, Hamilton, O., immediately. Mrs. Diefenbach and Ed. Guthrie will take charge of the show duing Mr. Diefenbach's absence. The show is doing a wonderful business through Illinois. We are heading for the South. New York Clipper, September 5, 1891, p. 433.
On the road, circuses: Diefenbach's Duquoin IL Sep 16, 17, Carbondale 18, __, Murphysborough 21(?)-26. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 467.
Notes from Diefenbach's Show. Our band of fourteen pieces furnished music for the trade parade, at Jackson, Miss. During the performance at Jackson a storm came up. The proprietors thought there was going to be a blow and storm and made that announcement. A stampede was the result. The tent was packed and jammed with people. They just turned loose, fell backwards off the seats and made a rush - men, women and children - for the open air. They didn't take time to go under the tent; they got out their knives and slit holes in the canvas in every direction, damaging the show property several hundred dollars. New York Clipper, November 28, 1891, p. 632.
1892:
Ed. Guthrie, of the Diefenbach Show, made a flying visit to Cincinnati last week, to spend the holidays with his wife, Mrs. Ida Guthrie, who recently presented him with a bouncing baby boy, weighing eleven pounds. New York Clipper, January 2, 1892, p. 715.
Notes from the Diefenbach Show. Everything is booming around winter quarters in readiness for next season. The show will be much larger, using 110ft. round top . . . Col. Chas. H. Pierson will have five men in advance. The show will carry five(?) cars and John Berry(?) will have twenty working men. The company will include P. Diefenbach, proprietor; Col. Cha. H. Pierson, general agent . . . M. W. Murray, John Smith . . . Steve Rogers . . . Bertha Mann, Capt. Edgar, and Prof. M. Snyder(?) and his troupe of Mexican ponies, dogs and goats. Eugene Coyle will have control of the sideshow. The show will open at Mobile, Ala., Feb. __. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 824.
Herbert Swift, comedian and musician, will join the Diefenbach Show at Columbus, Miss., March 16. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
The Sixto? Bros. join the Diefenbach Show for this season. New York Clipper, April 30, 1892, p. 114.
Harry and Tillie Brandon have closed with the Diefenbach Show, and are at their home at Joliet, Ill. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 165.
On the road, circuses: Diefenbach's, Carbondale, IL May 1?. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 167.
On the road, circuses: Deifenbach's, Terre Haute IN June 6-11. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
Andy Spear and wife and their troupe of educated dogs are with E. ?. Diefenbach's(?) tented company in Southern Ohio. This is Mr. Spear's thirty-third year in the profession. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 260.
1893:
Notes from the Diefenbach Show. We opened the season at Murphysboro, Ill., April 6, and experienced fearfully bad weather from the start. We started out with a hundred foot round top and two fifity foot foot middle pieces, in fine condition; all that's now left is the round top and one middle piece, which we cut down to forty feet. We have been blown down nine times and on each occasion have been torn all to pieces. But the sun is shining at last, and business is now standing room only. Thos who have children doing acts in the circus profession will be benefitted by reading this: At Richmond, Ind., on June 27, Mr. Diefenbach was arrested by the Humane Society chargin him with cruelty to children. He immediately gave bonds for $___ for his appearance on the following day. Charges were made against him and Daniel ___, father of Sanchapancha(?) and Michle(?), aged six and four years. It was proven at the trial that the children were not cruelly treated, but on the contrary had the very best of everything. As Mr. Diefenbach did not engage the children, and proved by contract that he only engaged the five older ones, the president of the Humane Society dismissed the case on the ground that the children were with their mother and father, and it was their proper place. The president said the Humane Society was not to arrest or injure a man's business, but simply to stop cruelty of which Mr. Diefenbach or the father might be guilty. The following is a list of the company: the Mexican family, five in number, and the two greatest Mexican children in the profession; Dan Malcolm, Millie Ethola(?), Frank P.(F.?) Gillespie, Chas. Lamb . . . and George McDonald's Challenge(?) Opera band and orchestra, consisting of the following: Geo. W. McDonald, John Lavadais(?), Frank Thacker, Henry Haack(?), P. D. Thresham(?), Bert Snow, Herman Reilding(?), Henry Fisher, Bert Clair . . . New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
Notes from Dieffenbach's Mexican Shows. We have been on the road five months, and have played to large business. We have had bad weather for seven weeks ___ blow downs, and at Winchester, Ind., our big top was completely destroyed in twenty minutes. We showed with nothing but side walls for two days. . . . Our company consists of forty-six people . . . New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 510.
On the road, circuses: Diefenbach's, Effingham, Ill. Oct. 1?, Centralia 1 . . . New York Clipper, October 14, 1893, p. 511.
Notes from Diefenbach's Mexican Circus, now touring the South: Business is good, and every night was a turn away to Natchez, Miss. Following is the roster: P. Diefenbach, proprietor and manager; Prof. Taylor(?), advance representative; Joe Miller, assistant; Prof. Hurbert(?) Swift, leader of Mexican Family, nine in number . . . Geo. Terrell . . . Wm. Reynolds. Concert people: Swift and Terrell, Katie Diefenbach, Rosie Aden(Allen?), Hood and Daily(?) and S. A. Hearn. We are working our way in Florida. New York Clipper, December 30, 1893, p. 687.
1894:
On the road, circuses: Diebenbach's, Jackson, Miss Mar 5-__. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 2.
Notes from the Deifenbach Shows. We have played the entire winter in the South, losing but few stands. Mr. Deifenbach met with an accident at St. Johns Ferry, La. He slipped and fell almost breaking his leg. F. E. Piper and A. S. Hearns(?) were on the sick list, but all OK now. The company at present is as follows: P. Deifenbach, W. M. Clark, Jack Bradock, Joseph Tully, Clarence Hood(?) Fred Wiretta(?), P. M. Rice, ___ Herrick . . . Wm. Mitchell . . . Meza Mexican Family, ten in number, Wm. Murry(?), boss canvasman with eight men; Smith Hutchings, charge of stock with six men; Wm. Stokes(?) is master of transportation with ten men. Harry James joined Feb. __ to take charge of band. Mrs. Deifenbach and little daughter met us at Baton Rouge, La., 14(?), after an absence of seven weeks. All is well now and the show is headed North. Week of March _ we will be at Jackson, Miss. . . . Frank E. Piper left the show and sailed for Cuba 20(?) to be gone seven weeks. New York Clipper, March 10, 1894, p. 5.
Notes from the Diefenbach Circus. We have been playing the South the past winter to fair business. The roster: P. Diefenbach, proprietor and manager; William Clark, advance representative . . . New York Clipper, May 5, 1894, p. 133.
1895:
The traveling aggregation now located at the corner of Tenth and High streets and known as the Diefenbach show, is in a peck of trouble. The show has been playing in hard luck for several weeks and the pay roll has been in arrears for some time. Today a number of attaches of the show served a writ of attachments on its paraphernalia to secure their unpaid salaries. At the trial before Squire Walters this morining, Diefenbach was able to show that he had transferred his interest to one C. H. Pierson several weeks ago. Mr. Pierson has a bill of sale for the show and yesterday demanded that the property be turned over to him. He had twice before pressed his claim he says but each time Diefenbach retained it on the plea that he would shortly be able to retrieve his fortunes. The affair was amicably adjusted this afternoon by the attaches taking possession for this week and the proceeds of each evening performance will be distributed among them as benefits. Logansport Daily Reporter (Logansport, IN), June 26, 1895.
Silas K. Louis (or Lewis), proprietor of the Dieffenbach circus, entered suit today demanding $500 damages of Constable Levi Binney. The suit is brought on Constable Binney's bond and his sureties John Kies, Frank Higt and David Laing are named as co-defendants. Louis alleges that Constable Binney unlawfully levied upon his (Louis) circus effects to satisfy judgments secured against his manager, Philip Dieffenbach. Kistler & Kistler are attorneys for the plaintiff and Justice & Peden for the defendants. Logansport Daily Reporter (Logansport, IN), July 3, 1895.
The Dieffenbach show tent, over which there was so much litigation, is now in the possession of Mr. Davis, of Peru, who has organized a company to play "Uncle Tom's Cabin." Logansport Daily Reporter (Logansport, IN), July 9, 1895.
1896:
Paul La Londe, operatic basso, and Johnnie Hughes, cornet, have signed with the Diefenbach Show. New York Clipper, February 22, 1896, p. 809.
Diefenbach Show notes. We opened at Winchester, Indiana. We have a novel street parade, headed by Ralph Halley's Apex Band of soloists. The banners and decorations were arranged by Col. Joe Huston (California Joe), our assistant manager. The hits of the opening were the Bros. Sexton, Tony Ashton, clown, and his dog and pony circus, and Valvo, the Jap, and Marzelle, lady clown. Geo. and Jennie Blakeslee are doing neat acts. . . . The privileges are handled by the Sexton Bros. and Tony Ashton. Tony Ashton will have his sideshow open at our next stand, Indianapolis, for two weeks. The advance is in the hands of Harry Busenbeck, with four assistants. New York Clipper, May 16, 1896, p. 167.
Notes from the Diefenbach Show. We are in our sixth week. We got another 40ft. middle piece last week. Frank Gillespie, clown and comedian, joined last week. Tony Ashton has broken in a new dog that is doing a forward somersault, lighting on his hind feet and staying on them. The Sexton Bros. are features. The Valvos are also catching the people, as are George and Jennie Blakeslee on the Spanish rings. New York Clipper, June 20, 1896, p. 246.
1897:
Notes from the Diefenbach Show. Roster: P. Diefenbach, sole proprietor and manager; F. M. Steel, contracting agent; E. W. Brady, equestrian director; Col. Dan Miller, boss canvasman; Herbert Swift, band master. The company will include Sprege and Bartlett, Ed M. Myo, clown . . . and Sisters Bartlett, Herbert Swift's band and orchestra. New York Clipper, April 17, 1897, p. 109.
Jas. B. Swafford writes that the Diefenbach Show has been doing well, and hs signed Nevarro, 'cyclist and juggler; Frank Evans and W. W. Bowers for the remainder of the season. New York Clipper, June 19, 1897, p. 251.
1898:
New Orleans, Jan. 20. Phil Diefenbach, a showman of note, and associated in a business sense with such men as Barnum, Forepaugh, Robinson, Sells Bros. and James Hamilton, is very ill at the Charity hospital, in this city. Mr. Diefenbach started south with his circus about three months ago, but became so ill after a few weeks that when he reached New Orleans he had to go to the hospital, where he is still confined. His show is still on the road. Mr. Diefenbach's wife and fourteen year old daughter are here with him. Mr. Diefenbach is a member of the Elks and G. A. R. and is well known all over the country. San Antonio Daily Light (San Antonio, TX), January 20, 1898.
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Sam B. Dill's Circus
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1932-1934
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Sam Dill & Tom Mix - 1934 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1934
• In January 1934, an announcement was made of a financial deal between Tom Mix and Sam Dill. Mr. Dill operated a truck show for several seasons. The new title would be Sam Dill's Circus and Tom Mix Roundup. It was to have 90 trucks. The show closed at Riverside, California, November 29. It was enroute for 33 weeks, exhibiting in 14 states. A few weeks before the closing, Dill sold his interest to Tom Mix. Bandwagon, May-June, 1959, Vol. 3, No. 3, p. 2.
• Article on the Sam Dill & Tom Mix Circus, 1934 is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1971 (scroll down or use find).
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Dillon Family Circus - 1988
In 1988 the show was at a fair at Crown Point, Indiana in mid-August. Jim Dillon and his family did most of the acts. Bandwagon, January-February, 1989, p. 16.
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Dix Bros. Circus - 1945
• Information on the 1945 Dix Bros. Circus is online in Bandwagon, Nov-Dec 1987 (scroll down or use find).
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Dixiana Circus - 1963 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1963-1987
• Article on the 1963 Dixiana Circus is online in Bandwagon, Jul-Aug 1963 (scroll down or use find).
• In 1976 the Dixiana Circus was sold to Peter Luvas and Gary Strong. Bandwagon, January-February, 1977, p. 23.
• In 1977 Luvas and Strong titled the show Strong & Luvas, opening March 10 at Azie, Texas. It found the going rough and went into quarters to reorganize. By June it went out again using the original Dixiana Circus title. Bandwagon, March-April, 1978, pp. 28, 34.
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Dandy Dixie Shows - 1918
Winter quarters, 1918. Dandy Dixie Shows. G. W. Gregory, manager; Sebrell, Va. Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 124.
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Dixon, Bowers & Dixon - 1900-02 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1902
1900:
Dixon, Bowers & Dixon Big Shows. Advance: Fred Darling, general contractor and advance representative. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
The Dixon, Bowers & Dixon's circus which came to grief in this town recently, was obliged to give up a performance at Stamford Monday. Just as the performance commenced a thunder and wind storm struck the tent and it went up like a balloon. The next day at Hobart the afternoon performance was given up for lack of spectators. Otsego Farmer (Cooperstown, NY), June 22, 1900, p. 1.
Dixon, Bowers & Dixon circus is holding forth here today. The parade at noon was very creditable. Warrensburg News (Warrensburg, NY), August 9, 1900, n.p.n. [may be Lake George News]
Dixon, Bowers & Dixon, circus managers, closed the season at Watertown, N.Y., Sept. 22, by giving a performance which was very satisfactory. After the show was over, Lester L. Rose, of Cooperstown, sheriff of Otsego County, presented himself and attached all the goods belonging to Dixon, Bowers & Dixon, to secure a chattel mortgage for $700 held by Richard Freeman, a business man of Cooperstown. It seems that during the first two months of the season the circus played in hard luck and found it necessary to give a mortgage to a man named Darling for sixty days. Darling, who is a show man, wanted to secure the outfit and tried to close the circus at Cooperstown, when Mr. Freeman came to the rescue. Since leaving Cooperstown, the circus has been playing to crowded tents during a trip through tbe Catskills and Adirondacks and had partially paid Mr. Freeman what they owed him. As Dixon, Bowers & Dixon were on the "square," they telegraphed Mr. Freeman that they would close at Watertown. Mr. Freeman sent the sheriff, who attached the property, consisting of a tent, nine wagons, seats, and eighteen work horses, which will be sold. The trick dogs, ponies, mules and horses belong to Mr. White, of Baltimore, who shipped his animals to that city. Billboard, October 6, 1900, p. 5.
Sheriff Rose returned on Wednesday from his trip to Watertown. He says that Mr. Freeman realized the full amount of his interest in the Dixon circus. Otsego Farmer (Cooperstown, NY), September 28, 1900, p. 5.
Dixon, Bowers & Dixon's Big Shows closed their season at Watertown, N.Y., Sept. 22, where the show will winter. Every department will be enlarged for the coming season. Dixon, Bowers & Dixon will play dates during the winter. . . . Address James J. Armstrong, 10 Union Square, or Dixon Bowers & Dixon, East 14th St., New York City. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, October 13, 1900, p. 734.
1901: Watertown. E. D. Bowers, of Dixon, Bowers and Dixon's Circus, was here arranging for the opening of the show at this place May 15. New York Dramatic Mirror, November 23, 1901, p. 22.
1902:
Wanted for Dixon, Bowers & Dixon's Big Show, circus people in all branches (except riders). Advance agent, musicians, concert people, man or lady with small troupe of dogs, musical act, boss canvas man, chandelier man and working people in all departments. Travel by rail, sleep in hotels and play 2 and _ day stands. Address Dixon, Bowers & Dixon, Continental Hotel, Chicago, Ill. P.S. wanted to buy a cycle whirl track in good condition. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 24, 1902, p. 22.
Dixon, Bowers & Dixon's Big Show notes. The show will open in Chicago on June 16, with everything new throughout. We will carry a 75ft. round top, with two 40ft. middle pieces; one 50ft. round top, with one 20ft. middle piece; dressing top, 25x45, all new. Through an ad in the Clipper, we have been able to secure the following people: Armstrong, Baker and Armstrong, Gertrude Norton and Annie Douglass, the daring bicycle riders, introducing B. F. Keith's original 'cycle whirl; the Five Smiletta, triple horizontal bar, double trapeze, dougle somersaults and pendulating rings; Anna Burt, balancing traps and high wire; Nellie Tuttle and her troupe of dogs, Mlle. Latina, in posturing and physical culture; Nick Otte, in a combination aerial act; ___, single traps and acrobatic clown; Prof. Lewis Archer, leader of band, with eleven soloists. The show will carry about thirty-five people, and travel by rail, using nothing but special printing. Dixon, Bowers & Dixon, managers; Joseph Hewitt, general contractor; John Harris, lithographer; Wylie Emerson, boss canvas man, with eight assistants. New York Clipper, June 7, 1902, p. 333.
• 1908: Edward Bowers, now in vaudeville with Bowers, Walters and Crooker, is an artist whose schooling in theatricals has been thorough and varied; wrought with many hardships, and suggesting an apprenticeship served amid primitive surroundings. Mr. Bowers made his debut in Dallas, Tex., in 1880, at Thompson’s old variety theatre. Here he remained two years continuously in black-face comedy, after which he joined W. B. Reynolds’ Traveling Circus. It was a "wagon show" drawn from town to town by oxen, and the territory it covered was necessarily limited. In this entertainment Mr. Bowers did "buck and wing" dancing, singing, magic, acrobatic and trapeze performances, besides playing in the band. Not content with this extensive display of versatility the management requested Bowers to appear in the "after show," and with the Dixon Brothers, who were also with this diminutive aggregation, he formed an association which afterwards became well known wherever vaudeville is presented as "Dixon, Bowers and Dixon." At this time the trio did a black-face, song and dance act, although in 1894 they evolved their "original rube act," with which vaudeville audiences in the East are familiar. After touring three years in this offering Mr. Bowers accepted a contract with David Henderson in his Chicago company, creating important comedy roles in "Sinbad," "The Derby Winner" and several other successful musical extravaganzas until 1901, when he re-joined the Dixon Brothers and launched a permanent circus in the West, known as "The Dixon, Bowers and Dixon Circus," and which played West for three years, after which the trio returned to vaudeville for one season. At the close of the next year, 1905, Mr. Bowers suggested a change of act to his partners, but as they wished to continue in the old medium, which had made them famous, he retired and formed a new association with Frank Walters and Alfred Crooker, and together they opened April 9, 1906, in their present vehicle, "The Three Rubes." Variety, May 23, 1908, p. 16.
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Dodge & Bartine's - 1868
• 1868: online at:
Clipper, March 28 (scroll down)
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Dock & Jordan's Show - 1887 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1887
Roster of Dock & Jordan's New Oriental Shows and United Carnival of Novelties: Dock & Jordan, proprietors and managers; J. J. Sallade, advance; Clint M. Newton, director of amusements; J. W. Harris, press agent; J. Kintzer, director of canvas with fifteen assistants. Performers: Dock and Jordan, Chas. Costello, Mlle. Zoe, Don Williams, Harry Lynch, J. F. Burke, Master Frank Smith, Lottie Fero, Cool Clezy, Russell Sisters, Prof. W. T. Fero and Prof. John Petrie's cornet band of ten pieces. They opened at Womeisdorf, Pa., June 4, and travel by wagon. New York Clipper, June 18, 1887, p. 214.
Did good business in Pennsylvania. The aerial apparatus gave way and fell on June 21, only slight injuries. New York Clipper, July 9, 1887, p. 258. 1887-1888, Sam Dock, owner. Bandwagon, July, 1953, p. 7; May-June, 1966, p. 28.
Dock & Jordan's circus, which started out from Womelsdorf about two weeks ago and has been giving exhibitions in Lancaster and Berks county, on Saturday, at Newmanstown, after having had a most precarious time, gave up the ghost. Unable to pay the men their wages a suspension followed. Lebanon Daily News (Lebanon, PA), June 28, 1887, p. 1.
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Dock & Sallade's Big Ten Cent Show - 1889 Dock & Sallade's Dime Circus; show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1889
Joseph Kearney and Prof. Thos. J. Flattery joined at Annville, Pennsylvania on May 27. New York Clipper, June 15, 1889, p. 225. Sam Dock, owner, 1889. Bandwagon, May-June, 1966, p. 28.
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Dock's Great Oriental Shows - 1889 (Dock & Smith)
Roster of Dock's Great Oriental Shows: Dock & Smith, sole proprietors and managers; Clint. M. Newton, director of amusement; Prof. Alex Green, Robert Williams, Sam Dock, Chas. Smith, Mazzantina Bros., Jos. Kearney, Lew Boydell (Roydell?), Chas. Costello, La Petite Annie, "Kaminski," Mlle. De Jour, Sam Du Rand and Prof. Campbell's Canine Paradox. The show will exhibit under a 100 ft. round tip, with a 40ft. middle piece, and travel by wagon, touring Pennsylvania, Ohio and West Virginia. Their season opens at Newmanstown, Pa., May 9. New York Clipper, May 11, 1889, p. 138.
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Sam Dock's Keystone - 1895-98, 1900, 1914, 1916, 1919 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1900; Great Keystone, 1911-1927
1895:
Sam Dock's Keystone Show opened April 20. Roster: Sam Dock, sole proprietor and manager: Chas. Long, advance; Chas. Cox, boss canvasman; Peter Hoover, in charge of stock. Performers: Sadie Dock, Alice James, Mabel James, Harry James, Ammon Musselman and Sam Dock. New York Clipper, June 22, 1895, p. 245.
Sam Dock has closed his big show and gone into winter quarters at Star View, Pennsylvania. New York Clipper, October 19, 1895, p. 521.
1896:
Sam Dock's Keystone Show notes. The trained animals are ready for the opening in April. Red, white and blue paint has been liberally used on the wagons and properties. Will Raush will have charge of the advance. Prof. Chas. Dessenberger's Keystone Band will head the procession. New York Clipper, March 28, 1896, p. 53.
Ammon Musselman, singing and talking clown, is going with Sam Dock's Keystone Show, his third season with the show. New York Clipper, April 4, 1896, p. 73.
Roster of Sam Dock's Keystone Show. Sam Dock, proprietor and manager; Jas. Musselman, superintendent; Geo. Role, cook tent; John Bratton, advance agent. Performers: Sadie Dock, Ammon Musselman, Harry Jarrett, Harry Good, Sam Dock, Geo. Rose and troupe of traine dogs, mule, pony and donkey. Musicians: Chas. Desenberg, leader; Dan Horn, Al Ginerick, Andy Hoover, Harry Good and Harry Jarrett. New York Clipper, June 13, 1896, p. 232.
Sam Dock's Keystone Show pulled into winter quarters at Ft. Loudon, Pennsylvania, October 14, having canceled the last three stands on account of the inclement weather. New York Clipper, October 24, 1896, p. 543.
1897:
Sam Dock's Keystone Show notes. Training animals has been the order since the show has been in winter quarters. A number of new small stock will make an addition to the program. Last year's animals have been taught new tricks to add to their repertory. All the tents will be new. New York Clipper, February 6, 1897, p. 781.
Ammon Musselman, singing and talking clown, has signed with Dock's Keystone Show, his fourth season with the show. New York Clipper, March 6, 1897, p. 7.
Notes from Sam Dock's Keystone Show. We have completed our tenth week on the road. We have crossed and recrossed every mountain in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Sam Dock's work on the flying traps makes a sensation, as does Mrs. Sadie Dock on the tight ropes, and with her troupe of ponies and dogs. Jas. F. Hanghey handles the ring; Ammon Musselman, principal clown and trick donkey, Jerry. Our concert is headed by Harry Hoy. We spent the Fourth of July in Fountaindale, Pennsylvania. Billy Madden joined the show at Rorwood, Pennsylvania. New York Clipper, July 17, 1897, p. 320.
1898:
Sam Dock's Keystone show notes. This show closed Oct. 22, a successful season of twenty-six weeks. A great deal of sickness prevailed among performers and musicians, in fact everybody had a touch of malaria. In pulling through the Southern Maryland swamps and sand five head of horses were lost and oxen were hired at different times to help pull through as some roads were almost impassable. One baggage wagon, two ponies and two goats were added to the show during the season. Keller Iseminger, advance agent, finished his work 15(?) and delivered his horses and wagon to Winter headquarters at Fort London, Pa. New York Clipper, October 29, 1898, p. 594.
1900:
Sam Dock's Keystone Show and E. G. Smith's Imperial Show have combined. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
Keystone Shows. Advance: Agent Keller Iseminger; bill posters Jos. Murray and Harry Blum. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
1914: Keystone Show. Dock & Blythe, proprietor; Sam Dock, manager; Eddie Blythe, treasurer; W. H. Ashdown, general agent; Chas. T. Ogden, local contractor; Eddie Blythe, manager sideshow; Wiley Ferris, equestrian director; H. G. Blythe, supt. privileges; M. M. Rice, musical director; Claire Dock, supt. reserved seat tickets; Ed. Davison, supt. canvas; Geo. Kidd, boss hostler; Moss Wright, supt. commissary dept.; Jewett Selock, supt. props; Harry Loving, supt. ring stock; Louis Wilhelm, supt. animals; Thos. Nelson, legal adjuster. Show opens at Goochland, Virginia, April 11. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
1916: Great Keystone Show. Sam Dock, proprietor & manager; H. G. Blythe, general agent; Ray West, press agent back with show & announcer; Wiley Ferris, manager sideshow & equestrian director; E. E. Tiddler, musical director; Mrs. Eddie Blythe, supt. reserved seat tickets; Ed Davison, supt. canvas & lights; Sam Brown, boss hostler; James Jones, supt. commissary dept.; Chas. Dikerson, supt. props; Wm. Pritt, supt. ring stock. Show opens at Hope Mills, North Carolina, about March 18. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
1919:
Heavy rains caused the Great Keystone Show to lose three consecutive stands in Virginia the week of July 21-26. While showing Edgerton, Va., Tom Nelson met Mac McGinis, they trouped together several years ago on the Dave Gillespie Wagon Show. Manager Sam Dock has been confined to his wagon for a few days with chills. George Norman (Red) has added several new tricks to his magic act. - H. R. Brison. Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 45.
At Lowery, Va., August 18, the show was hit by a terrific wind and rain storm when the night show was about half over. Manager Dock was in the ring with the talking pony and the animal was struck by the falling rigging. King Kelly joined at Appomattox on the 19th to take charge of the advance. This was the first time Mr. Dock and Kelly met since they trouped together on the Bard Bros. Show thirteen years ago. Claire Brison received a new top for her refreshment stand. Charlie Jacobs is making a hit with his one-man band in front of the pit and does his musical act in the concert. Manager Dock has made arrangements to stay out until Christmas and probably go into South Carolina and remain out all winter, as he did two years ago. - H. R. Brison. Billboard, August 30, 1919, p. 42.
Indications are that the Great Keystone Show will continue its season as long as weather permits. The show is now touring North Carolina, and the closing stand and winter quarters have yet been decided by manager Sam Dock. Billboard, November 15, 1919, p. 58.
• More on the 1919 Great Keystone show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
• 1951: Sam Dock, still active, had the Sam Dock Dog & Pony Shows out for many years. Nowdays his grandsons, Robert L. and Harry Brison, operate the Lee Bros. Circus, a small motorized outfit playing West Virginia and Pennsylvania territory. Greater Show World, August, 1951, p. 10.
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Dockrill's Circus - 1885-87, 1889
1885:
Wanted for Dockrill's Brand-New and Grand Circus, performers, male and female, bareback riders (with or without their horses), gymnasts, knockabout clowns, lady menage riders with their horses, and a troupe of performing dogs. I pay no hotel bills. Board costs from seven to ten dollars per week in country where we show. Address, R. H. Dockrill, Valentine avenue, Fordham, N.Y. New York Clipper, August 15, 1885, p. 352.
Dunbar and Vernon, swinging trapeze performers, have signed to go to South America with Dockrill's Circus. New York Clipper, October 3, 1885, p. 451.
R. H. Dockrill will have a circus in Venezuela during the coming season. The clown elephants from the Forepaugh Show will be among the features. New York Clipper, October 10, 1885, p. 471.
Dockrill's Circus left New York per steamer Philadelphia, Oct. 28 for Laguayra, whence they go by rail to Carracas, S.A., where they will give their first performance. The people are Elise Dockrill, Agatha Dockrill, Emma Jutau, Lottie Aymar, Dunbar Veroa(?), W. B. Aymar, G. W. Brown, Charles Watson, Wash Antonio, J. R. Adams, H. Sparkes, Arthur Valvino, M. Leon, R. H. Dockrill, eight horses, clown elephant; H. Platner, boss canvasman; G. Waterman, properties; John Allen, chandeliers. Mr. Dockrill claims that Dan O'Brien, who signed a contract and received advance money, kept away until the ship sailed. New York Clipper, November 7, 1885, p. 532.
The steamer Philadelphia with R. H. Dockrill's Circus on board, arrived at Laguaya, Venezuela, S.A., Nov. 5(?), after a stormy passage of eight days. Four horses died during the trip. The show went direct to Caracas, where they opened Nov. 15(?). They remain there about a month and then work inland. New York Clipper, December 12, 1885, p. 612.
1886:
R. H. Dockrill's Circus. Mr. Dockrill was personally decorated by the President of Venezuela during his stay in Caracas, as a tribute to his show. Lottie Aymar, Emma Jutau, Dunbar and Vernon, J. R. Adams, J. W. Brown and Wash Antonio are making hits. New York Clipper, January 16, 1886, p. 692.
The Dockrill Circus opened at Trinidad to good business. They next make for Bolivar, Dunbar and Vernon. Leon (clown), Frank Sparks, Valvino and Emma Jutau have scored hits. New York Clipper, March 13, 1886, p. 830.
Lottie Aymar and James Murray have signed to travel for six months with R. H. Dockrill's Circus in South America. New York Clipper, August 7, 1886, p. 328.
Abelardo Lowande and wife, Mlle. Zarah and Nicholas Ceballos leave for Venezuela with Dockrill's Circus on the S. S. Philadelphia Nov. 17. New York Clipper, November 20, 1886, p. 562.
1887:
Dockrill's Circus is reported to have had bad luck at Colon Jan. 14. J. W. Foster, the agent, attached the show there for salary. They recently lost several horses. New York Clipper, January 29, 1887, p. 731.
1889:
Dockrill's North American Circus, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, S.A. Wanted, male and female equestrians, aeril gymnasts, acrobats, knockabout and musical clowns. Address R. H. Dockrill, Rio de Jaaneiro, Brazil, S.A. New York Clipper, May 25, 1889, p. 185.
South America. Dockrill's Circus went to pieces. Wash Antonio joined Frank Brown's Circus, now in the Argentine Republic. New York Clipper, June 22, 1889, p. 238.
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Dockrill & Leon's Circus & Hippodrome - 1881-82 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1881-82
1881:
Leon's Iron Amphitheatre, Havana, Cuba, will open on or about the 10 of December, with Dockrill & Leon's Monster Circus and Hippodrome. R. H. Dockrill, equestrian director. Wanted, circus talent in all its branches, riders, bareback, pad, scenic, hurdle, Roman, standing, menage and entry; gymnasts, acrobats, leapers and tumblers, trained animals of every species, chariot riders (male and female) and novelties of all kinds. Performers with their own stock preferred. Leader of band and orchestra required. Also wanted, a 100 foot round top, poles, seats, etc. Ring stock owners wishing to negotiate for sale or hire. Leon De Leon, Ashland House, or R. Fitzgerald, dramatic agent, Bowery, New York. New York Clipper, October 8, 1881, p. 475.
Joe and Eugene Kennebel, clowns, are engaged with Dockrill & De Leon's Circus, Cuba. De Leon's Iron Amphitheatre, Havana, Cubs, R. H. Dockrill, director, and Leon De Leon, manager, opens Dec. 2. All parties engaged are asked to report Nov. 26 at the Ashland House. Manager Dockrill and De Leon have dates open for people in circus and variety business. New York Clipper, November 26, 1881, p. 587.
The Leopolds - Senora Geraldine, Little Gerry and George - have arrived in Havana, Cuba, and, says our correspondent: "The latter is busy superintending the final arrangements for opening Leon & Dockrill's circus-theatre, of which he is also a partner. New York Clipper, November 26, 1881, p. 587.
The Australian Four, Kennedy, Richardson, Casselli and Reach, are under engagement with De Leon & Dockrill. New York Clipper, December 3, 1881, p. 602.
De Leon's Iron Amphitheatre, Havana, Cuba, R. H. Dockrill director and Leon De Leon manager, artists engaged: Madame Elise Dockrill, Miss Ella Stokes, Miss Rosina Dubsky, Madame Marika, Mademoiselle Geraldine, Madame MacDonald, Madame Turnour, Miss R. Stickney, Miss S. Stickney, Miss Annie Yates, Miss Mattie Lewee, Miss Maude Oswald, Miss H. Stuart, Miss Josie L. Howe, Miss Nellie Celeste, Miss Amy Wells, La Nina del Aire, Miss Nelly Howe, Robert Stickney, Senor Sebastian, Frank Gardner, The Australian Four - Mr. MacDonald, Geo. Leopold, Carl Meygaard, Wm. Batchelor; the Herbert Brothers, Kennebel Brothers, Hawley and Buislay, Harry Codona, Charles Rosselli, John Murray, Fred Runnells, Francis Bell, Napler Lowande, John Carey, C. Mondoza, Cheeky Bill, Lew Snow, Charles Davis, Johnny Reese, J. Hunterson, J. Hedges, J. Whittaker, J. Ellingham, N. Stuart, Arthur Hernandez, James Robinson, band and orchestra, Wm. Dunbar and four property men, eleven grooms. New York Clipper, December 3, 1881, p. 611.
1882:
Dockrill & Leon's Circus, Havana, Cuba, is reported as doing well. Frank Gardner and William Batchelor are contesting for superiority in leaping "for a prize of $1,000." Logansport Chronicle (Logansport, IN), January 7, 1882, n.p.n.
George Leopold, of Dockrill & Leon's Circus, says our Havana, Cuba, correspondent, writing on Jan. 5, "returned in the steamship British Empire last week, and brought with him all the appurtenances for a traveling circus, which was put to immediate use by erecting the tent in Matanzas, and taking half of Dockrill & Leon's company with him. They opened there Dec. 29, 1881. This part of the show will perform in all the larger cities of the Island, and the troupe will be constantly reinforced by new faces as they arrive. C. Nyegaard is the equestrian manager. Maggie Claire, the Herbert Bros., and the Kennebels have had benefits, but with poor financial results. The introduction of the six Trakene stallions last week under the command of R. H. Dockrill scored a hit. Miss Katie Stokes has not appeared for some time, having thrown her knee out of place and sprained her ankle by falling from her horse. The hippodrome races were financially a success. A new batch of performers is expected by next week's steamer. The Herbert Bros., J. Long, Maggie Claire, Signor Sebastian and son, and W. H. Batchelor sail for New York today. Later - I have just learned that Signor Sebastian died last night. He was to have sailed today." [Signor Sebastian's son arrived here Jan. 9, bringing with him his father's horse. - Ed. Clipper.] New York Clipper, January 14, 1882, p. 707.
The arrivals the past week at Leon & Dockrill's Circus, Havana, Cuba, were the Ramirez Family, and Nestor and Veona. Chas. W. Fish was expected, but has not yet arrived. Nestor and Venoa made a hit, as did the Ramirez Family. The latter perform after the style of the Spanish Students. That part of the company under the management of Geo. Leopold are now showing in Cardenas. New York Clipper, January 28, 1882, p. 739.
On the occasion of the benefit of Madame Dockrill in Havana, Cuba, Jan. 24, the bill was varied by new acts, being "La Jen de Bose," by Mr. Nyegaard and the Misses Ella and Emma Stokes, which consisted in detaching a rosette, fastened to the left shoulder, with the right hand; which proved a most difficult feat. Madame Dockrill rode a six-horse act, her principal act, and danced a Spanish dance on horseback and on the carpet. Nestor and Venona did a flying ring act, and Hawley and Buislay their trapeze. There will be a general hegira on the 28, a large number of performers going away on that day, viz.: Ella, Emma and Katie Stokes, Maud Oswald, Annie Yates, Hawley and Buislay, Robert Stickney, Fred Bunnells, the Australian Four and Clint. Romelli. New York Clipper, February 4, 1882, p. 755.
Showed at Leon's Iron Amphitheatre, Havana, Cuba. Leon De Leon and R. H. Dockrill. New York Clipper, October 1, 1881, pp. 451, 459. Show is closing in Havana in debt. New York Clipper, February 18, 1882, p. 791.
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G. W. Donaldson's - 1884
Wanted for Prof. G. W. Donaldson's Great United Shows, performers in all branches of the circus business. Leapers and tumblers, and specialty people who must do more than one act. Wanted, musicians and a good leader, one that plays E flat cornet; also sideshow curiosities, high wire ascensionists, billposters, boss canvasman, boss hostler and four and six horse drivers, and a working agent who understands the circus business. Will take the road about May. Address Prof. Donaldson, Bay City, Mich. P.S. - Candy stand and street privileges to let. Would like to purchase trappings for ten horses; alos 8 entry dresses and light ticket wagon. New York Clipper, April 5, 1884, p. 48.
Neil Smith is looking after the finances of Donaldson's Circus this season. New York Clipper, May 3, 1884, p. 102.
Geo. Belford, while performing with Donaldson's Circus in Carson City, Mich., May 20, in throwing a double somersault, missed his footing and broke his leg in two places below the knee. New York Clipper, May 31, 1884, p. 166.
Donaldson's Circus [Pickney, MI] has come and gone . . . In the midst of the evening performance a can of gasolene used for supplying the lights, exploded, through carelessness of a young man who had charge of it, setting fire to the tent used as a dressing room and burning several persons. Mr. Donaldson, proprietor of the circus, and Chas. H. Alpine, one of the acrobats, were most injured, their suits of "tights" being almost burned from their bodies. Mrs. Donaldson and several others were more or less severely burned, but all able to go on to Dexter with the show. The burned tent was repaired before leaving town. . . . Pickney Dispatch (Pickney, MI), June 12, 1884, p. 1.
G. W. Donaldson's Great United Circus at Hicksville Monday, June 30th, afternoon and evening. Consisting of sixty men and forty horses, with a company of thirty-five artists. The only circus that will visit this city the present season. Don't fail to be in town early in the morning to witness the Gramd Parade nearly one-half mile In length, consisting of several beautiful tandem teams driven by young and handsome ladies. Also elegant band chariot drawn by eight magnificent horses with Prof. Alexander's grand military band, large and handsome wagons of various designs, followed by forty men and women on horseback, dressed in the most gorgeous manner. All the paraphernalia, trappings and wardrobe are entirely new and very expensive This will be the largest and most complete circus that ever visited this city. Remember we have five large, new tents, covering nearly two acres of ground, which will be decked with a variety of handsome flags, banners, shields and emblems of many devices. Bear in mind that we show more outside, free of charge, than any other show will exhibit in this city, under canvass, for 25 cents. New and startling features that have prominence in either hemisphere. It has been the earnest aim of the management to depart from the worn out observance of tented exhibitions, snd to create an entertainment that would concentrate the best talent and present only prominent and striking features. . . . Prof. Neil Smith's troup of canine actors and funny Dog Circus. They dance, waltz by themselves and with one another. They read and sing. They climb ladders and roll globes. They leap over objects. They drill as soldiers, perform equestrian feats ou the backs of one another, and cut up a thousand funny antics, in which the antics of the clown dog are especially comical. Hicksville News (Hicksville, OH), June 26, 1884, n.p.n.
G. W. Donaldson's circus passed through the city yesterday enroute to Columbia City. The outfit is pretty queer and travels by road. Colonel Forbes, the ancient impressario who lately more or less managed Charles Hildebrand, the reformed burglar, is at the head of this party. Fort Wayne Daily Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), July 28, 1884, p. 6.
Barretta and Vidella, the acrobats with the Lighthall show, leave for Syracuse, Ind., today to join the Donaldson circus. Fort Wayne Daily Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), August 6, 1884, p. 6.
Theo. F. Baretta and Vic. Videtta, double horizontal bar and double somersault artists, recently joined Donaldson's Circus at Napinee, Ind. New York Clipper, August 23, 1884, p. 355; September 6, 1884, p. 400.
Magdalen, the lady juggler (Mrs. Neil Smith), left the T. W. Donaldson [sic G. W.] Show at Nappanee, Ind., and at Charlotte, Mich., Aug. 25, gave birth to a boy baby, 9 1/2 pounds. Mr. Smith and his dog circus are still with the circus. New York Clipper, September 6, 1884, p. 389.
G. W. Donaldson & Co.'s Three Consolidated Shows will close a successful season of twenty-six weeks at Greenville, Mich., Oct. 18, where they will go into Winter quarters. G. W. Donaldson's Big Fair Show will close the season at Richmond, Va. G. W. Donaldson's Dime Entertainment will open their Winter season Nov. 10. Specialty and museum people please address this manager, Neil Smith, at Greenville, Mich., or as per route. Good agent. Address G. W. Donaldson & Co. New York Clipper, October 11, 1884, p. 481.
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Donaldson & Rich's Show - 1885
• G. W. Donaldson's & F. H. Rich's Three Consolidated Shows; show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1885
Wanted, male and female performers in all branches of the circus business for tenting season of 1885, for G. W. Donaldson's and F. H. Rich's Three Consolidated Shows, which will take the road about May 5, on wheels. Leapers, tumblers, riders, acrobats, contortionists, aerial artists, performing horses, trained dogs and any new and novel act that can be performed in a circus ring. Billposters, four and six horse drivers, and an agent that has experience with a wagon show; also, musicians, sideshow attractions, and concert people that can double in brass. Address Donaldson & Rich, Greenville, Mich. New York Clipper, January 24, 1885, p. 719.
The Donaldson & Rich circus opened the season at Greenville Tuesday. Marshall Statesman (Marshall, MI), May 8, 1885, n.p.n.
To open May 5 at Greenville, Michigan. Poor success on May 26 at Flint, Michigan. New York Clipper, April 25, 1885, pp. 91, 95; June 6, 1885, p. 184.
Donaldson & Rich's Show. Donaldson & Rich this year are traveling over the same ground they did last, and the show is nearly double what it was then. See the circus tomorrow, July 9. Albion New Era (Albion, IN), July 9, 1885, p. 1.
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Donaldson & Mayo Show - 1887 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1887
Show is in the West. J. H. Cullen was in charge of the concert. New York Clipper, July 30, 1887, p. 310.
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Donetti's Dog & Monkey Show - 1859, 1860 or Donnetti's
• 1859: online at Clipper, May 21, Clipper, July 2 (scroll down)
• 1860: online at Clipper, January 7 and Clipper, February 11 (scroll down).
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James Donovan's - 1887-89, 1895
1887: George M. Devere did not go with this company to South America because of salary holdup. Robt. Stickney leaves for South America to join, show will open in Panama. New York Clipper, December 17, 1887, p. 637; December 31, 1887, p. 668.
1888:
Roster of Donovan's Circus now in South America: Daisy Belmont, Robert Stickney, Mlle. Marietta, Chas. Belmont, Lottie Belmont, Francisco Cruz, . . . Harry Carey, Wm. Fairchild and Thomas Scott. New York Clipper, February 11, 1888, p. 768.
The report comes that the Donovan Show closed its season last month, after a very disastrous trip through the Isthmus of Panama. Several members of the stranded Donovan Circus recently joined Gardner's American Circus. New York Clipper, March 10, 1888, p. 839.
Donovan's Circus is at the Island of Jamaica, W.I. The managers report business big. New York Clipper, March 17, 1888, p. 2.
The Great Amerian Circus, James Donovan & Co., arrived March 22, having been on a successful trip to the Isthmus of Panama and the Island of Jamaica. The list of those returned: James Donovan, Co. Jesse W. Foster, Robert Stickney, Daisy Belmont, Lottie Belmont, John Costella, Harry Carey, Walter Scott, Etta Corbert, Marrietta, Charles Belmont, Mrs. W. V. Fairchilds, Little Viola (infant prodigy), Robert Stickney Jr., Thomas McAvoy, James Lowden, Charles Frisco . . . New York Clipper, March 31, 1888, p. 47.
1889: Chas. Harley and Tom Jarvis, black face, knockabout and acrobatic act, were four years on the show. New York Clipper, March 9, 1889, p. 637. Will sail from New York about October 25. Donovan and Sturgis have dissolved partnership. New York Clipper, June 29, 1889, p. 267.
1895: Notes from Donovan's Circus. We continue to do good business in Cuba. The amphitheatre, built under the direction of Jesse Foster, our advance representative, will hold nearly five thousand people. New people are two Spanish clowns and Minnie Patterson, an American female aerialist, Spanish trapeze act. The Nelson family close in about two weeks. March 1 is calculated as the day of James Donovan's entirely new outfit being erected in Clenfuegos. . . . New York Clipper, February 16, 1895, p. 795.
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Donovan & Long's - 1897
Donovan and Long's Circus, which sailed on Nov. 29, is reported to have reached Costa Rica. The outfit shipped to San Jose. The show will play San Salvador six weeks after closing in Costa Rica. Roster: Jas. Donovan and Frank Long, proprietors; Bob Stickney, wife and child, Mrs. Donovan and child, Daniel and Ada Castello, Charles Drayton . . . New York Clipper, January 23, 1897, p. 749.
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Donovan & Stickney's North American Circus - 1889-90
Wanted for Donovan & Stickney's North American Circus, ninth annual tour, for a tour of South America and West Indies, a few performers, especially ladies. Duration of season six months to one year. Address Jas. Donovan, New York, or Robert Stickney, care Irwin Bros. Circus as per route. New York Clipper, September 28, 1889, p. 491.
Donovan & Stickney, artists recently engaged are Chas. W. Fish, champion rider; Viola Rivers, Emma Lake, Geo. Caron, Blanche Edwards, Willie Edwards, Barteldo Family of gymnasts, and Ed. Franconi and his troupe of performing canines. Sailing date, on or about Oct. 12. New York Clipper, October 5, 1889, p. 505.
Charles W. Fish informs us that for good and sufficient reasons, he has canceled his conditional engagement to go to South America with the Donovan Circus. New York Clipper, October 12, 1889, p. 513.
Doing good business at La Guyra, South America. New York Clipper, January 25, 1890, p. 491.
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Donovan Bros. - 1943
Donovan's Indoor Circus features the Dutton troupe, bareback riders; Bassett and Bailey, equilibrists; Marre and Pals, dog and pony revue; the Whirling Aces, dance team of the silver wheels; Bagdad, performing camel; Miss Diana, gymnast; Ted and Hank, comedy jule sensation; Vivian DeVerre, aerial loop; Trenton Sisters, Ida Mae, physical culture; Koko and Loko, clowns. Santa Fe New Mexican (Santa Fe, NM), December 8, 1943, p. 6.
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Dore & Reddick's Circus - 1888 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888
George Luproil, of the aerial team of George & Pauline, fell and broke his neck on July 7. New York Clipper, July 21, 1888, p. 299. Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
John B. Doris - 1883-86 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1883-87
1883:
Items of J. B. Doris' Show. The "Two-headed Nightingale," Millie Christine, has been re-engaged. Zazel is to rejoin. The Siegrists will reappear next season. F. M. Kelsh is advance manager. New York Clipper, January 20, 1883, p. 718.
Doris' Show items. Sallie Marks, Ella Stokes, Prof. John Wingfield and performing dogs, Prince Satsuma, Russian Athletes, John Patterson, Francois Kenebal, George Drew and James Woodville have been engaged. Francis M. Kelsh has returned from a prospecting tour in Canada and Michigan. Wm. Henry will handle cash and pasteboards. Wm. Doris has withdrawn from the firm of Kohl & Doris, and will manage the Interocean privileges. New York Clipper, January 27, 1883, p. 727.
Doris items. Whiting Allen has been busy writing up paper. J. J. Showles has been engaged as equestrian director and Willie Showles as equestrian. New York Clipper, February 3, 1883, p. 742.
Sam P. Cox, contracting agent for John B. Doris' Interocean Menagerie and Circus says that the show is to open in Philadelphia under canvas April 16, for one week New York Clipper, March 10, 1883, p. 822.
The Interocean Show is to open its season in Philadelphia, Pa., April 9. Officers: F. M. Kelsh, railroad agent; J. V. Strebig, advertising agent; Sam P. Cox, contracting agent; E. H. Davis, excursion agent; John Massey, master of transportation; Ernest Healy, master of canvas; Bob Abrams, master of horses, with J. Rumsberger, assistant; William Doris, assistant manager of privileges; William Henry, treasurer; Frank Morris, lecturer; James Woodville, manager of concert. The company includes Millie Christine, Zazel, William Showles, J. J. Showles, Ella Stokes and Sallie Marks, rider; the three Russian athletes, the three Siegrist Brothers, Mlle. Tournour, Rice Brothers, John Wingfield's troupe of performing dogs, Satauma, Francois Kenebel, George Drew, James Woodville, James Ward, the Franklin Brothers and Johnny Patterson, the Irish clown. The privileges will be run by the management. New York Clipper, March 24, 1883, p. 6.
John B. Doris' Interocean Show will be officered as followed: John B. Doris, proprietor; Wm. Henry, treasurer; Frank Kelsh, railroad agent; D. V. Strebig, general agent;Jos. A. Gobay, advertising agent; S. M. Charles, agent in charge of second car; R. H. Davis, excursion agent; Ed. Norris, boss billposter of first brigade; Jas. McKeag, do. of second brigade; Jas. Silverthorne, do., of third brigade; Samuel Gladstone, do., of fourth brigade, with thirty-five billposter. New York Clipper, April 1, 1883, p. 38.
John Wingfield's Dog Circus has joined John B. Doris' Circus. New York Clipper, April 14, 1883, p. 54.
John B. Doris' Interocean Show made a street parade in Philadelphia morning of April 9, and exhibited there to a well-filled canvas. The riding of Sm. Showles, Ella Stokes and Sallie Marks, Satsuma's Japanese Circus, Millie Tournour's trapeze performance, and other features. New York Clipper, April 14, 1883, p. 54.
John B. Doris' circus exhibited in Jersey City, Saturday night. Among its performers is a rider named Miss Ella Stokes. While she was doing the balloon act, her foot caught in one of the hoops, and the broken paper of the balloon becoming wound around her ankle, she could not throw it off. The horse becoming frightened, she lost her control of the animal and was thrown against the centre pole. It was understood that she was seriously injured. Huntingdon Journal (Huntingdon, PA), May 4, 1883, p. 1.
Sedalia, Mo., Sept. 28. At a point one mile south of Boonville, about daylight yesterday morning, the second section of a Kansas & Texas train, which was conveying to Sedalia sixteen cars of John B. Doris' Inter-Ocean circus, met with an accident on account of a guard rail turning. Three cars were ditched, one of which contained horses used in the ring and the other tow the chariot and band wagon. Both of these latter vehicles were demolished and two employes named Thomas, brothers, received internal injuries. The car containing the horses was turned completely over and had to be cut to pieces before the animals could be released. Doris places his losses at between $13,000 and $15,000, of which sum $10,000 is on the chariot and band wagon, valued at $5,000 each. Decatur Daily Republican (Decatur, IL), September 28, 1883, n.p.n.
J. B. Doris' Circus is reported having done big business in the West. Two rings were introduced Sept. 25, and are to be used the rest of the season. A portion of Doris' Interocean Circus was ditched Sept. 27 on the Missouri Pacific Railroad near Booneville, Mo. Two employes, brothers, named Thomas, were badly injured. The band wagon and chariot were demolished and two horses hurt. New York Clipper, October 6, 1883, p. 480.
J. B. Doris' Circus closed its season Dec. 4 in Newport, Ark., and went into Winter quarters on the fair grounds, Belleville, Ill. New York Clipper, December 15, 1883, p. 650.
• Information on the 1883 John B. Doris' Inter-Ocean is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 1, p. 40.
1884:
Colonel Joe Porter, ticket salesman with Forepaugh last season, will do the quick ticket shuffle for the J. B. Doris circus this season. Fort Wayne Daily Sentinel (Fort Wayne, IN), February 6, 1884, n.p.n.
Thomas Huff, who recently removed from Parkersburg, W. Va., to Orrville, will travel this season with John B. Doris' circus and menagerie, in the capacity of bill poster. Orrville Crescent (Orrville, OH), April 1, 1884, n.p.n.
The John B. Doris circus car which was in the city this morning contained sixteen advertisers, who are camping on W. W. Cole's trail. Atchison Globe (Atchison, KS), April 15, 1884, n.p.n.
The Salbini family of bicycle riders which appeared in Atchison with Leavitt's specialty company last week, have joined the John B. Doris' circus and will appear here again on May 8th. William Showles, champion bareback rider, is also with Doris. Showles is the only one who turns a double somersault while his horse is on a full gallop. Atchison Globe (Atchison, KS), April 18, 1884, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] John B. Doris' New Monster Show United with the Great Inter-Ocean. Will be in Lawrence Saturday, May 10th. 12 mammoth shows combined. Museum, menagerie, aquarium. 3 ring circus and elevated theatre stage. The sacred wonder, Theodorus, the white spotted sacred elephant. Katamorpa, queen of the reptile world. 10 opne dens of wild beasts exhibited free on the public streets.
Salbinis French troupe of bicycle riders. Moore family Siberian roller skaters. Riffia Bey, knife thrower. 3 Siegrist Brothers, acrobats. 4 Onofri Brothers, musical specialists. 3 German aerialists, Rudolph, Stubein, Franz. Mlle. De Granville, iron-jawed lady. The Great Eldora, Japanese wonder. Miss Antonio, gymnastic evolutions on the slack wire and instantaneous costume changes. William Showles, bareback rider. Ella Stokes, bareback equestrienne. Sallie Marks, petite premier of the arena. Champion Dog Circus. Dogs that talk, sing, laugh, dance, pray, read, play cards, hold school and smoke cigars. Tom Ward, leaper. Mlle. Lizette, flying rings and trapeze. 3 Macarte Brothers, classic posturing. Lawrence Journal (Lawrence, KS), May 1, 1884, n.p.n.
John B. Doris' Great Inter-Ocean Circus. Officers: John B. Doris, manager and proprietor; F. M. Kelsh, general director; William Henry, treasurer; G. V. Hunter and William Doris, assistant managers; E. H. Davis, general agent; Sam. P. Cox, contracting agent; John E. Boyle, press representative; O. Ensminger, agent car No. 1; George Kettler, agent car No. 2; J. W. McBride, agent car No. 3; Chas. W. Ellis and James Kelley, agents skirmishing brigades; Charles McClurg, agent progamme brigade. Company: William Showles, Sallie Marks, Ella Stokes, Salbini Troupe (bicyclists), Moore Family (skaters), Fisher Bros., Siegrist Bros., troupe of genuine Turks, Madame Katamorpa, Riffia Bey, Francois Kennebel, Miss Antoine, Mlle. Lizetta, Mlle. De Granville, Mlle. Le Favre, Fred Macarte, Master Macarte, Madame Josephine Macarte, Onifri Bros., J. Showles, Johnny Patterson, Drew and Woodville, Mullin and Mills, Mattie Bliss, Prof. Harry Armstrong's Silver Band.
Sideshow: John B. Doris, manager. The people are the Murray Midgets, Signor Etani, Eddie Rogers, Aggie Zulettie, Rose Leslie, Susie Conrad, John Jennings, Spaff Hyman, Rosie (Circassian), Camelie Burke (fire queen) and Ned Forbes. Concert attractions: Barry Stanwood, Pete Sexton, Mattie Bilss, Mullin and Mills, May Antonio, Johnny Patterson, Florence Sisters, James Woodville and George Drew. . . . Menagerie under two tents, circus under one hippodrome tent - three rings and a stage. Animal department under Nate Davis and 10 men; master of canvas, Earnest Healey; master of horse, Abe Abrams; master of transportation, J. W. Massey; master mechanic, James Dorn. New York Clipper, May 3, 1884, p. 105.
Germantown Items. Jacob Oldaker, who has been traveling with Doris' circus and menagerie through the South the past season, returned home last week. The show went into winter quarters at Indianapolis. Cambridge City Tribune (Cambridge City, IN), December 4, 1884, n.p.n.
• Information on the 1884 John B. Doris show is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1989, Vol. 33, No. 2, pp. 38-44.
1885:
The executive staff of John B. Doris' New Monster Show for the coming season will be Sameul P. Cox, contracting agent; E. H. Davis, general agent; Geo. Kittler, agent of second car; John E. Boyle, press agent. The above have been re-engaged from last season. J. R. Davis has succeeded F. M. Kelsh as railway contractor. Mr. Dois has added fifteen cages, making in all fifty cages of animals. The season opens in Indianapolis on or about April 20. New York Clipper, February 14, 1885, p. 765.
Doris' roster is as follows: Agents - Railroad-contracting agent, J. R. Davis; general-agent, E. H. Davis; contracting-agent, Samuel P. Cox; agent car No. 1, Geo. Pitsker; agent car No. 2, Geo. Kettler; agent skirmish-brigade, J. Callahan; agent bugle brigade, B. M. Drake; newspaper-representative, John E. Boyle. Corps of 75 billposters. Performers - Wm. Shoals, Sallie Marks, Ella Stokes, Moore Family, Fisher Bros., Three Milo Bros., the Russian Athletes, Onofri Bros., J. R. Adams, J. F. Quigley, Troupe of fourteen Turks, Mlle. De Granville, Mlle. Lizetta, Belle Celeste, James Woodville, J. J. Shoals, May Antonio, Marsh Adams and wife, McIntyre and Cummings, Mills and Warren, Riffa Bey Carter (American Jap0 and Eldora. All privileges are under the management of Wm. Doris. New York Clipper, March 21, 1885.
John B. Doris' New Monster Shows, united with the Great Inter-Ocean. Twelve mammoth shows combined - comprise triple circus in three big separate rings, megatherian museum, deep-sea aquarium, elevated theatre stage, and fifty cage menagerie will make its appearance at New Albany, Monday, April 20. The list of exclusive features is large, and only a few can be mentioned. First and foremost is the pioneer war elephant "Betts," the heroine of over one hundred and fifty battles, one hundred and forty-one years of age. The man-eating lion slayer; herd of performing elephants; blood-sweating hippopotamus; Egyptian bovalapus; human blood-sucking vampires; grave-robbing hyenas; roay Abyssinian lions; living marine monsters; performing rhinerceros; royal Bengal tigers; drove of Bactrian camels; dromedaries and other animals. Grand street parade at 10 a.m. Daily Evening News (Jeffersonville, IN), April 3, 1885, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] John B. Doris' New Mammoth Shows United with the Great Inter-Ocean. 3 ring circus. 50 cage menagerie. 12 complete mastodon shows combined. At New Albany, April 20. The great war elephant, "Betts." Genuine brawny Turks, in native costumes, presenting acrobatic feats, vaulting and leaping on high ladders and forming human pyramids. William Showles, bareback equestrian. M'lle Lizette, high wire trapeze. 3 German aerialists, Rudolph, Stubein, Franz. Mons. Duval, muscular man of Sampson's strength. Ella Stokes, equestrienne. Prince Yahmadas, Japanese Circus, with six equilibrists. M'lle Celeste, queen of aerial performers. 3 Panchett Brothers, gymnasts and acrobats. Redmond Brothers, posturing. French bicycle riders, six in all. Onofri Bros., French clowns and acrobats. 3 Milo Brothers, horizontal bar. Eldora and Carter, equilibrists. James Woodville, equestrian director. 10 comical clowns. 20 champion leapers, 14 bareback riders. J. R. Adams, known as "Pico," the English clown. Katamorpa, empress of the reptile world. Prof. Hamilton, Champion Canine Circus; dogs that talk, sing, laugh, dance, pray, read, hold school, smoke cigars, sham battles, etc. Fisher Brothers, flying trapeze. Moore Family, Siberian roller skaters, lady and gentleman. Riffia Bey, knife thrower. May Antonio, chage artiste in gymnastic evolutions on a high slack wire. Sallie Marks, bareback rider. J. F. Quigley, champion leaper. M'lle DeGranville, acts of balancing. Free street parade daily at 10 a.m. Four great bands, two miles of golden chariots, twenty open dens of animals, retinue of ladies and gentlemen, handsome horses, ponies, etc. . . . Public Press (New Albany, IN), April 8, 1885, n.p.n.
City News. Representatives of the Buffalo Courier Printing Co. were in the city yesterday and settled a claim of some $20,000 against J. B. Doris, the circus proprietor. At first it was thought that attachment proceedings would be commenced. Mr. Doris has had hard luck this season. Daily Gazette (Fort Wayne, IN), May 13, 1885, p. 6.
Doris' Dots. Despite several small shows which have recently visited Canada, the Interocean has been more than successful. Wm. Doris' new English drag leads the street parade and attraction attention. Charles Mitchell of the Ottawa Show printing House presented E. H. Davis with a carved meershaum pipe. Wm. Knowles has just purchased a Hambletonia colt, which he intends breaking for the arena. Wednesday, Aug. 26, is our last day in Canada, that being St. Catherine's. The latest acquisition tot he circus is the troupe of Arabs, late of the Forepaugh Show. One of Katamopha's (snake charmer) reptiles bit our big Zulu at Kingston recently, and the sufferer's condition is rather critical. When the show reaches the States Mr. Doris will have four advertising cars, instead of three, and also have two box brigades for opposition and excursion labor. New York Clipper, August 8, 1885, p. 328.
1886:
Incomplete roster of the Doris Inter-ocean Circus: Jno. B. Doris, proprietor; Wm. J. Doris, manager privileges; F. M. Kelsh, supreme agent; E. H. Davis, general agent; M. O'Neil, press agent . . . Geo. Goodhart, agent car No. 2; H. L. Ellis, agent car No. 3; corps of billposters, G. V. Hunter and J. H Trewalla, assistant managers. The performers are headed by Jas. Robinson, and the other riders are Clarence Robinson, Sallie Marks and Ella Stokes . . . clowns, Johnny Patterson, Geo. Drew, Mons. Fortune and F. Kennebal; Martell Family, bicyclists; Siegrist Bros., Fisher and Ahren, and troupe of thirteen Turks . . . Rice Bros., Walter Le Roy, J. C. Long, Frank Cummings, Minnie Kaye, H. McIntyre. In the concert it is probable that besides the first part, the opera "The Mikado" with chorus will be produced. In "The Mikado," Sallie Marks is said to be cast for one of the three little maids. The sideshow will have a Giant's Convention, headed by Rose Leslie and Susie Conrod, the English skeleton dude, Triplet Midgets, Family of White Moors, Maoria chief, Young Hercules, Indian knife throwers, Prof. Archer and Spoff Himan. New York Clipper, April 24, 1886, p. 85.
Information should be checked with additional sources Do you have more information on this show? Email your documented information for the show or persons.
Doris & Colvin - 1887
John B. Doris and E. D. Colvin made a partnership deal in this city Jan. 6. Mr. Colvin will add to the Doris outfit his ten cars and their contents, including Roman horses and chariots, bucking ponies, racing stuff, wardrobe, etc. The new show will travel as Doris’ Inter-Ocean Circus, combined with E. D. Colvin’s Colossal Hippodrome and Wild West. Mr. Doris went to Indianapolis, Ind., 10. Mr. Colvin remains here to work the preliminaries. . . . The show will open in Indianapolis. New York Clipper, January 15, 1887.
Wanted, for the John B. Doris Great Inter-Ocean Shows combined with Dr. Colvin's Colossal Hippodrome and New "Wild West," for season of '87, people in all branches of the business - circus, hippodrome, and wild west performers. Address for next ten days, Dr. E. D. Colvin, Indianapolis, Indiana. Also wanted, agents of all kinds and 30 billposters. Address John B. Doris, Indianapolis, Indiana. New York Clipper, January 22, 1887, p. 719.
. . . Doris & Colvin Shows. . . . The Colossal Roman Hippodrome employs over a hundred trained equestrians and jockeys, male and female, and the New Wild West counts in its vast organization Indians, scouts, hunters, Indian slayers, Rocky Mountain guides, trappers, Mexican vaqueres, bullfighters, . . . Captain Elmer E. Stubbs the "Restless Spirit of the Plains," will lead the Wild West Show, in shots surpassing the feats of any marksman in the world. In short, the Captain bears the title, Champion Combination Wing Shot of the World, with rifle, revolver and shotgun. Newark (OH) Daily Advocate, April 29, 1887.
Roster of Doris & Colvin's Circus: John B. Doris and E. D. Colvin, proprietors and managers; F. M. Kelsh, railroad department; W. C. Boyd, general agent; S. P. Cox, contracting agent; E. Madigan, first assistant general agent; M. J. O'Neil, press representative; C. W. Farrell, treasurer . . . James Alderwick, steward; Harry Regan, chief cook; William Kelly, boss canvasman; John Parent, master transportation; Pearl Souder, lion king; Walter Quite, chandelier man; Harry Hodges, master wardrobe; Felix McDonald, master hippodrome stock; Pete Sexton, chief porter; George Farrell, assistant boss canvasman; Dennis Sprout, private cook; James Anderson, elephant trainer.
Circus: F. B. McIntyre, equestrian director; Ella Stokes and Anna Carroll, principal riders; William Dutton, somersault rider; George Melville, jockey rider; Charley Lowry, hurdle rider; Sig. Marquise, Indian rider; William O'Dell, four horse rider; Don Leon, four horse rider; Mlle. Alma, aerial artist; Mlle. Lotta, aerial artist; Adell Purvis, high wire; Three Romallie Brothers, acrobats; Two Leon Brothers, acrobats; Lao and Rouge, contortionists; Fusher and Ahearn, aerial artists; Richard Lewis, flying man; Sat Sumas Japanese Troupe; Wood and Haley, tumblers; Leroy and West, leapers; Ashley and Hess(?), skaters. Hippodrome people: Mons. and Mme. McDonald, chariot drivers; Miss Cossilla . . . Mme. Rea, Mlle. Augusta, flat race riders; Richards, Johnson, Vorder and Romeo, jockey riders; Dutton, Lowrey and O'Dell, Roman standing races; Sig. Zanistowskies' equestrian gymnasium, drawn by four horses; the Human fly, Mlle. Lotina. Wild West people: Capt. Stubbs, Texas Harry, trick shot; California Frank, bucking steer and broncho rider; Wild Bill, Colorado Frank and Sig. Antonio and his troupe of Mexicans; a band of Pawnee and ___ Indians, led by their chief, White Eagle. The procession will have five kinds of music: Prof. De Perios' circus band of eighteen pieces, Montana Harry's cowboy band, O. W. ___ Indian Brass band, the Indianapolis fife-and-drum corps and the steam calliope, Prof. Bloss, player. All privileges owned and controlled by the management. New York Clipper, April 30, 1887, p. 100.
Doris & Colvin's Show. Mr. Doris took "Rub" Abrams, the only "Leon," and in three days had the thirty-horse act ready. It has been a great success. T. B. McIntyre, our general director, got up the Custer Massacre, and under his supervision it is well represented by a company of soldiers, tribe of Indians, etc. The battle of the Little Big Horn is acted at each performance. "Bill" Doris and wife joined after a week's vacation in Chicago. While there Bill got wind of a great freak, which will come on next week. Clarence Farrell, treasurer, never lost his even disposition last week when the rush was around his ticket wagon. Charley Lowery does a great hurdle act now. California Frank, the cowboy, has the best lot of bucking steers and horses. "Lucy" Ducheck, candy butcher, has the reputation of making the finest lemonade, so says the press. Capt. M. S. Bodkins, our chief detective, and three assistants have full charge of the inside and outside of the large tent. New York Clipper, August 6, 1887, p. 326.
Little Rock, Arkansas. Doris & Colvin's Circus, which was to show here Dec. 2, broke up in Texas and did not come. New York Clipper, December 10, 1887, p. .
St. Louis, Mo. Judge Lubke has ordered the receiver to pay Doris & Colvin's employes twenty per cent of their claims as a compromise. Many accepted it in order to get out of town. New York Clipper, December 17, 1887, p. 632.
1888:
The motion of the Strobridge Lithographing Co. and others to dismiss the receiver of the Doris & Colvin Circus was set aside. Judge Lubke regrets that no statute clothes him with authority for ordering payment of the employes in full, but in winding up a partnership estate it is required that all creditors should be treated alike. After the motion to remove had been entered, 8, Booth & Co., T. Hollowy and other creditors moved to recind the order for payment of 20 per cent to employes on account, but the court over-rules this motion with the provision that the execution of the order shall be stayed until further order. The condition of the estate is such that a sale of the circus and menagerie assets at this time would realize very little for the creditors, while a postponement until Spring would operate to their advantage. The receiver will therefore not be in a position to discharge further indebtedness for the present. The claims of the employees aggregated $___, and the receiver, after payment of the 25 per cent in full, found himself with a very small balance in hand for meeting the claims, for perserving the estate, insurance, storage, supplies, watchman, car rent, etc. The claims of other creditors aggregate $30,000. New York Clipper, January 7, 1888, p. 689.
John B. Doris was a Clipper caller Jan. 7. In speaking of the Southern trip of Doris & Colvin's Circus, he said that if managers would look over past histories of circuses they would never go as far as Texas. As for him, he vows he will hereafter stay North of the Ohio River. Mr. Doris thinks that if his show had stayed North, it would never have been put into the hands of a receiver. "Please say for me," added Mr. Doris, "that we intend to pay every penny of indebtedness against us." New York Clipper, January 14, 1888, p. 702.
The Doris & Colvin Circus will be sold in St. Louis, Mo., Feb. 23. New York Clipper, February 4, 1888, p. 759.
• Information on the 1887 Doris & Colvin show is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1990, Vol. 34, No. 5, pp. 30-38.
• Rufus J. Delano, attorney in the Doris & Colvin receivership, has been directed by Judge Lubke, of St. Louis, Mo., to par a final dividend of three per cent to creditors, with the further order that the estate be closed. New York Clipper, June 9, 1888, p. 203.
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Doris & Sullivan - 1888 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888
Sullivan in the Circus Business. Boston, May 21. - John L. Sullivan has bought a one-third interest in John B. Doris' circus, and will make a tour of the United States, beginning on or about June 1. Sullivan has dropped his former manager, Harry Philips, and, having secured the services of a secretary, will manage his own affairs in the future. Fitchburg (MA) Sentinel, May 21, 1888.
John B. Doris has completed his negotiations with John L. Sullivan, and with the latter as a partner (owning a third interest), will start a tent show on the road about June 1. The New England and New York circuits principally will be visited, it being Mr. Doris' intention, we believe, to proceed no farther West than Buffalo. John B. Doris informs us that it is settled that he and his old associate, George H. Batcheller, will reunite for the tenting season of 1889 and thereafter. New York Clipper, May 26, 1888, p. 169.
St. Louis, Missouri. John B. Doris was here last week buying up what he could find of his old circus outfit. He repurchased the rolling stock, the band chariot and the ticket wagon. New York Clipper, June 9, 1888, p. 199.
The John B. Doris-John L. Sullivan Show opens its tour June 23 at Mt. Vernon, N.Y. Mr. Doris will have Robert Stickney, Ella Stokes (Mrs. Doris), the Mauvels, Dunbar and Vernon, Francois Knebel (French clown), Dashway and Moulton, Eldora . . . the Three Milos and Prof. H. M. Parker and his dog circus. John L. Sullivan and Jack Ashton will wind up the show. New York Clipper, June 16, 1888, p. 219.
Bluffed By Sullivan. The Way in Which He Got the Best of a Norwich Sheriff. Norwich, Conn., July 7 - At the conclusion of the evening performance of John B. Doris' and John L. Sullivan's circus here there was a great rush of the athletes and employees over a greater portion of the city in search of a sheriff to served an attachment on Sullivan and Doris' property, claiming arrears in salaries. . . . Deputy Sheriff Storey, who was finally secured and accompanied the party to the circus lot, where Sheriff Joab Rogers and a large crowd had preceded them. Sheriff Rogers from the top of a wagon warned John L. not to move the property. After parleying for a time Sullivan reached for the sheriff, who weights about 180 pounds, caught him by the collar with one hand, and gently set him upon the grass. Rogers call for the arrest of the pugilits, but no one present dared to make the attempt. The proprietors effected an arrangement with the employes, and the show left the city at an early hour the next morning. Daily Northwestern (Oshkosh, WI), July 7, 1888.
Trouble is said to be brewing in the Doris-Sullivan Show on account of salaries. A dispatch states that a sheriff attempted to serve an attachment on the property at Norwich, Ct., July 4. The sheriff mounted a wagon and ordered John L. not to remove any of the property, but Mr. Sullivan did not like the idea of being ordered, and jumped on the wagon. The sheriff is said to have landed on the ground. The officer called for the arrest of John L., but no one attempted to interfere. An agreement was effected with the employes, and the show started on its tour morning of 5. New York Clipper, July 10, 1888, p. 281.
Not a Paying Circus. Boston, July 21. - Sullivan, Doris & Gray have dissolved their circus partnership. It is said that the enterprise was not a paying one. Newark (OH) Daily Advocate, July 21, 1888.
Sullivan Has the Circus. Boston, Mass., July 23. - The Doris-Sullivan circus combination has been broken up, and John L. will not compete with Barnum and Forepaugh under his own name. Says the champion: "I like the business and shall stick to it. Doris and I part friends, but I intend to push the business. I propose making the circus a two ring one before many weeks are over, and will in time, I hope, get up to the level of any show in the business. I am down to work now, and when I have settled some of the would-be champions I will turn my full attention to the circus, which will be my whole aim hereafter. Daily Northwestern (Oshkosh, WI), July 23, 1888.
Boston, Mass., July 20. The circus firm of John L. Sullivan, Gray & John B. Doris was dissolved yesterday by mutual consent. Boston, Mass., July 24. John B. Doris and John L. Sullivan have quit. The bills now read "John L. Sullivan's Gigantic Circus." New York Clipper, July 28, 1888, p. 310.
E. H. Davis, of the Doris-Sullivan Circus, denies the published statement that the show owes salaries. He says that during the first half of this month the attendance was light, but since that time the circus has made money. New York Clipper, July 28, 1888, p. 315.
John B. Doris was a Clipper caller July 23, having retired from the circus firm of Sullivan & Doris. He will now devote his energies in preparing for the 1889 tour of the new Batcheller & Doris Inter Ocean Show. New York Clipper, July 28, 1888, p. 315.
A letter signed by James H. Benton says that the musicians who were discharged from the Doris & Sullivan Show were paid in full to date. New York Clipper, August 4, 1888, p. 327.
During a conversation with our Providence, R. I., correspondent, July 23, Geo. H. Batcheller informed him that the statement that he is to engage in business with John B. Doris was premature. He says that it is true that they have mapped out an enterprise, and Mr. Batcheller thinks there is money in it, but he says that circumstances will guide him altogether in the matter. New York Clipper, August 4, 1888, p. 327.
Boston, Massachusestts. John L. Sullivan's Circus. For just one week did this organization travel under the above name. Business was simply wretched all the while they were here. The beginning came when Mr. Doris retired. The climax occured July 28, when Mr. Holmes, of the Standard Museum, Brooklyn, N.Y., came over and wanted the show "done up" at once. He claimed to have leased all the stock, etc., to Mr. Doris. His Boston lawyers wired Mr. Holmes to come to the Hub and protect his property. He came and found the show in a sadly demoralized condition. No one connected with the management was around, both Messrs. Sullivan & Gray, who was thought to have put up the coin to run the show, being scarcer than hen's teeth. Finally Robert W. Stickney, the bareback rider, clapped an attachment on the property through Constable Flint for back pay, and a second attachment was served by somebody else. A number of employes who were looking for back pay were appointed keepers, and they packed up things ready to go to the next town billed, which nobody knew at all. It was the windup show of the Sullivan Circus. New York Clipper, August 4, 1888, p. 330.
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Dorsey Bros. - 1927-29
1927:
George Dorsey and Fred Pitkin of New York are revamping the old Sig Sautelle Circus, and will assemble in Watertown, where the season will be opened early next month. It is said three hundred persons will comprise the show, which will travel by motor truck. DeRuyter Gleaner (DeRuyter, NY), April 28, 1927, p. 1.
Dorsey Bros. Circus will exhibit at Weedsport, August 13. Aside from the smallest baby elephant in America, "Little Nemo," are the trained ponies, dogs, monkeys and other novelty acts. Acrobats, gymnasts, aerial artists, tumblers and a coterie of clowns. The Coralli family are a feature. Vernon Coralli, in his slide for life, walks up a steep cable suspended from the highets pitch of the big tent and slides down standing on the top of his head. Cayuga Chief (Weedsport, NY), August 12, 1927, p. 3.
1928: Dorsey Bros. Circus played Boliva, New York, with its "smallest educated elephant, "Nemo." Vern Coriell did his slide for life act. The program was given in two rings, with the Dorsey Bros. circus band. Bolivar Breeze (Bolivar, NY), August 9, 1928, n.p.n.
• Dorsey Bros. Circus was touring in 1929. Bandwagon, May-June, 1984, p. 10.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, George P. Dorsey, proprietor, 1927-28; and in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1927-29.
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Dorward's Great London - 1909 Dorward & Wertz Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909-1912
1909:
Dorward's Great London Shows. Dorward & Wertz, proprietors; John A. Dorward, manager; John F. Wertz, equestrian director; Bill Sands, advance; E. White, boss canvasman; Will Fisher and F. Mack, property men; Will Ellwoods, boss hostler; Joe McGlyn, cook; J. Blahl, blacksmith. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
Performers engaged for the Dorward and Wertz Great London Shows are Reckles Rontue, Roman rings, balancing trapeze, slack wire; the Wertz troupe of acrobats, three in number; Wm. Foust and Lilly Lutz, double trapeze, revolving ladder; Pearson Dorward, hand balancing, swinging perch; John Bauchman, juggling; John F. Wertz's troupe of dogs, monkeys and goats; Dorward's ponies, wolves, and Tim, the talking horse; Little Mary, child acrobat on single trapeze and Roman rings. The clowns are John Bauchman, P. Dorward, McGlynn and Chas. O'Brien. A band of twelve pieces will be under the direction of S. Capece. The show will open at Reading, Pennsylvania, on May 1. Billboard, May 1, 1909, p. 17.
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Downie & Austin's Parlor Circus - 1884, 1886 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1886
• 1884: Clarence Austin and Andrew Downie, owners. Bandwagon, Jan-Feb, 1963.
• Consolidated with Sig Sautelle's Pavilion Shows. Opens at Ft. Edward, New York, May 12. New York Clipper, May 8, 1886, p. 123.
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Downie & Gallagher's - 1891-92 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1891-92
1891:
Buffalo, New York. Andrew Downie has sold a half interest in his circus to J. F. Gallagher, of Medina, N. Y. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 758.
Downie and Gallagher is one of the many new firm names for the coming season. The headquarters are in Greenville, Mich., where many are busy getting things in readiness. New York Dramatic News, February 7, 1891, p. 12.
Second season. Downie & Gallagher (successors to Rich & Downie) Big Railroad Shows. Wanted to rent, two more 60 ft. flat cars and one sleeper. Wanted, performers in all branches of the business. Trained animals of all kinds. All must do more than one act in big show or concert. Musicians for two bands. Those with me last season, write. Good boss canvasman, who can handle his men. An agent not afraid to work, one who is a close contractor, who understands railroad contracting and is strictly sober. Candy stand and sideshow to let to responsible party. For sale a number of baggage wagons, two advance, one band and one passenger wagon. Will buy good second had 60(?)ft. middle piece for 110 ft. top. Also good 12ft. side wall. Address Andrew Downie, manager. Austin & Stone's Museum, Boston, Mass, till Feb. 6(?). Westminster, Mass, Providence, R. I., Feb 9 to 16(?). Permanent address: Downie & Gallagher, proprietors, Medina, N. Y. New York Clipper, February 7, 1891, p. 764.
Downie & Gallagher's Show is undergoing a complete overhauling at quarters, Greenville, Mich. Four(?) large new baggage wagons, two flat cars, one box car and one(?) sleeper have been added. All the wagons and cars are painted in white and gold(?). The show will carry two bands, and travel touring Michigan, Indiana and Illinois. . . . Edward Carr and Wm. Ingram have signed for the season. New York Clipper, February 28, 1891, p. 811.
Notes from the Downie & Gallagher headquarters. Prof. John White(?), with his trained dogs, goats, ponies and monkey, has signed with the show, making his second season. Howard and Doyle have been engaged for the concert. The show travels by rail on our own cars, making one and two day stands through Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Ohio and New York. Four new baggage wagons, one tableau band wagon and one stock car have been added to the outfit. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 59.
Second season, Downie & Gallagher's (successors to Rich & Downie) Big United Railroad Shows. Wanted, performers in all branches who do two or mroe turns. Good talking clown and double drummer who can work in concert. Musicians who can double in band or orchestra. Good leader for brass and orchestra. Boss canvasman who can handle his men. Will buy eight or ten band helmets with plumes; good second hand horse tent, and any good 10(?)ft. side wall canvas; five or six lenths of folding back reserved seats. Show opens May 9(?) at Greenville, Mich. Downie & Gallagher, proprieters. Will rent sideshow and candy stands to responsible parties. Two weeks' deposit required. Address Andrew Downie, manager, Hotel Phelps, Greenville, Mich. New York Clipper, April 4, 1891, p. 70.
Wanted for Downie & Gallagher's Big Railroad Shows. A good dog circus, trained goats, ponies, monkeys or donkeys. Can use a few more good ground acts and concert people. Also musicians. Downie & Gallagher, proprietors. Candy stand and side show to rent. Address Andrew Downie, Hotel Phelps, Greenville, Mich. New York Clipper, April 18, 1891, p. 104.
Call. All performers, musicians and employes engaged for Downie & Gallagher's Big Railroad Shows report for rehearsal at Greenville, Mich., not later than May 6(?). Show opens May 9(?). Downie & Gallagher, Hotel Phelps, Greenville, Mich. Advance call, April 29(?). Can use a good contortionist and outside ascensionist; must do two turns. New York Clipper, April 25, 1891, p. 124.
Roster of Downie & Gallagher's United R. R. Shows: Downie & Gallagher, proprietors; Andrew Downie, manager; J. P. Gallagher, treasurer; Dock Downie, assistant treasurer; Ed. Carr, Sherman Downie and wife, three Monroes . . . Mlle. La Tena, Wm. Ingram, Bessie Doyle, Carrie Monroe, Geo. Howard, Lucie(?) Monroe, Prof. Sherman with his herd of performing goats and school of educated dogs, Howard and Doyle, Monroe Sisters, Dock Downie, Miss Sherman and Dock Filley(?). Hank Englehardt, boss canvasman, with twelve assistants; Wm. Browne, boss property man, with four assistants . . . A. B. Butler, contractor; Wm. Stevenson, boss billposter, with four assistants; Fred Monroe, steward, and four assistants. They opened the season at Greenville, Mich., May 9(?). New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 182.
Grand Rapids, Michigan. Rich & Downie's Circus exhibited on the Island the past week, attracting fair audiences. New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 183.
On the road, circuses: Donnelly [sic] & Gallagher's, Cortland, Mich May __, Ionie 21, Stanton 22 . . . New York Clipper, May 23, 1891, p. 187.
Lansing, Michigan. Downey [sic] & Gallagher's Circus . . . New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 202.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, Cedar Springs, Mich. May 27, Rockford 28, Newaygo 29, White Cloud 30. New York Clipper, May 30, 1891, p. 203.
J. P. Gallagher, of the circus firm of Downie & Gallagher, is in the East for a few days. He was a pleasant caller on the Clipper June 30, and had an encouraging report to make of the season thus far with his show. New York Clipper, June 27, 1891, p. 268.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, Lima, O. July 1, Kenton 2, Marion 3, Galion(?) 4. New York Clipper, July 4, 1891, p. 281.
Notes from Downie & Gallagher's Shows. We are now in the ninth week of our season, and business from the start has been very satisfactor. . . . Prof. Hillard, John A. Drayer and the Redall(?) Sisters joined at Mansfield, O. At Marson(?), O., July 3, as the afternoon performance was going on a cyclone hit the show. The big tops stood the gale in fine shape, but the dressing room tent, the cook tent and the horse tent were blown down, but with very little damage. . . . New York Clipper, July 18, 1891, p. 312.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, Cleveland, O. July 2?-2?. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 332.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's Big R. R. Shows, musicians, good tuba and cornet players that can double in orchestra. Also performers in all branches of the circus and concert business. All must do more than one turn, and any good burlesque, clown or comic acts. Can use good riding dogs, goats or monkey acts. Show makes long season. Play three day and week stands. Downie & Gallagher, proprietors. Address Andrew Downie, manager, for two weeks, Cleveland, O., then as per route. New York Clipper, July 25, 1891, p. 341.
Notes from Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows. Business continues good. At Akron, July 9, 10, 11, we were compelled to turn people away, and we will play a return engagement of three days. The mayor of Crestaline, O. invites us to visit that city, offering to furnish grounds, license, and newspaper advertising free. Among the many visitors to the show during the past week were Mrs. Fred Kling, who will stay for two weeks . . . Manager Miller, of the Whitney Show, and Judge Ewing, of the Cleveland Consolidated Shows. We have now decided to put on a stronger attraction the coming theatre season. The very best talent has been secured, and no expense will be spared to make it one of the strongest attractions on th road. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
Notes from Downie & Gallagher's United Shows. We are now in our third week at Cleveland, and have played to the fullest capacity of our canvas at each performance. Downie(?) and Hall, in their flying return act are meeting with much success. We are constantly adding many special features and novel acts. Among the visitors to the show during the past week were . . . Judge Ewing of the Cleveland Consolidated Shows, and Manager Gallagher's wife, who will spend her summer vacation with the show. Managers Downie and Gallagher are very busy booking valuable time for their hall show for the season of 1891-92, which will open at a New York theatre about the middle of October. They have secured some exceptional people. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 346.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, Cleveland, O. July 27-Aug 1. New York Clipper, August 1, 1891, p. 347.
Notes from Downie & Gallagher's United Shows. We are now in our fifth(?) week of success at Cleveland, O., despite strong opposition. We now open our show with eleven(?) tumbling clowns, an act that is meeting with much success. Mr. Downie is quite busy looking after the whole show during the absence of Mr. Gallagher, who accompanied his wife home from her visit to the show. He will remain away some time, looking after the business interests ahead. All members of the show are well, and regret that so prosperous a season is closing. We will close Oct. 3(?) at Medina(?), N.Y., where we will go into winter quarters. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 382.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, . . . Akron OH 17-19, Ravenna 20, Warren 21, Niles 22. New York Clipper, August 15, 1891, p. 386.
Doings of Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows. We have finished our five weeks of continued success at Cleveland, O. We are at Akron for week of Aug. 16, and return to Cleveland 23 to play another long engagement at Forest City Park. We then start on our Eastern tour. On the lucky list(?) the past week first comes the management, having played to their usual large business at each performance. Manager Downie figured ___ on the list. On his birthday, the members of the company presented him with an elegant solid gold chain and charm. Ed. Carr was also one of the fortunate ones. He received a handsome initial ring as a birthday token form the management and company. Gillette, contortionist, met with a very painful accident while doing his difficult act. He strained himself, and when he reached the dressing room he was totally blind. Physicians were immediatley summoned, and pronounced it hemorrhage of the brain. Mr. Gillett is slowly recovering, and has the sympathy of the entire company. All the other members of the company are well. Hi Henry was among the visitors to the show during the week. New York Clipper, August 22, 1891, p. 398.
Prof. Sherman, of Downie & Gallagher's Circus, was recently presesnted with a solitaire diamond stud, by his wife, as a birthday token. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
Doings of the Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows. At Newburg(?), Aug. 14, a heavy wind and rain storm completely demolished things. We lost both shows on that day, but with hard work on all sides we had everything in readiness for the afternoon of 15(?). We immediately ordered a new 120(?)ft. top and a __ft. center, which are daily expected. Business is something tremendous, and all are well and contented. New York Clipper, August 29, 1891, p. 416.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Buffalo NY Sept 1-19. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 467.
Downie & Gallagher's United Shows. We are now in the nineteenth(?) week of a season of continuous success, and business is still up to our standard. We have made very little change in the roster since our opening last Spring . . . Mr. Gallagher is still looking after business in advance, while Mr. Downie is very busy with business matters back with the show. . . . All the company are well and happy. New York Clipper, September 19, 1891, p. 469.
Doings of the Downie & Gallagher United Shows. The weather the past week was all that could be desired, and the business was fully up to the weather. The show will close its prosperous season at Medina(?), N.Y., Monday, Sept. 28(?), when it will go into winter quarters. During the winter the show will receive a complete overhauling and be enlarged to double its present size. Sixty more head of stock, a Wild West hippodrome and menagerie will be added, making the Downie & Gallagher Shows one of the largest and most complete circus in America. All the old favorites of the show are under contract for next season, and many foreign features are under consideration. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 484.
For sale at a bargain. One 110ft. round top with 40ft. middle piece, 12ft. side walls complete, ropes, centre and side poles, blocks, etc., elegant double door markee [sic] entrance, one ___ push pole top, 12(?)ft. walls complete with poles, etc., one 30x45ft. oblong dressing room, 10ft. walls now being used by Downie & Gallagher's Big R. R. Shows. Can be seen at any time. Will sell the canvas separate for cash. Address Downie & Gallagher's Big Railroad Shows till Sept. 26, Buffalo, N.Y., after that Medina, NY. Will buy or trade for a 120 ft. top, with middle piece. New York Clipper, September 26, 1891, p. 496.
Doings of the Downie & Gallagher Show. We closed our season at Medina, N.Y., Sept. 28, and the outfit is stored in our winter quarters. Our most disatrous accident of the season occurred when we were only two miles from our last stand, and while we were congratulating ourselves on our good luck in having escaped from railroad accidents. The alarm of fire was sounded though [sic] the train. When the proprietors reached the train they found the canvas wagon wrapped in flames. The engineer tried hard to make the station, but the train was too heavy for fast time, and the burning car, which was next the engine, had to be detached from the rest of the train, and a lively run for Medina was made, one and a half miles distant. On reaching there the water was turned on. By hard work all day Sunday, Sunday night and Monday morning we finally roped the top together sufficient to hoist what was left of the peaks, and by subsituting the cook tent side walls we got up one of the hardest(?) looking canvases that ever covered a ring. But it had no effect on the performance or audience, for we played to one of the largest days of the season. The wagon was mostly destroyed. We lost all our reserve seat carpet, nets, tumbling ticks, ropes, etc. The loss is heavy. Thomas Murray, one of our employes, when returning home after finishing his season, was run over at Sanborn, N.Y., and lost a foot. He was taken to the hospital at Buffalo, where he is being well cared for. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 518.
At liberty for good combinations, specialty or burlesque. The Downies, Andrew, Mille La Tena, a first class novelty act, full of good comedy and burlesque work. Address Andrew Downie, Downie & Gallagher's Winter Quarters, Medina, N.Y. P.S. Have a few open dates. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 532.
[Ad] Downie went McGinty and Gallagher let her go, and we don't owe a dollar. This is to certify(?) that we, the undersigned performers, musicians and employes, have received our salary in full from Downie & Gallagher for season 1891, beginning May 9 and ending Sept. 28(?). Signed: Ed Carr, Wm. Ingram . . . Prof. Sherman, Miss Lizzie Sherman, Fred Kling, Harry Kling, Dock Downie, Frank Bacon, Howard and Doyle(?), Monroe Sisters . . . W. A. Gillette, Prof. Clark, B. F. Mitchell . . . Frank Polak, Fred Monroe, Theo. Saddler, F. Seymore, A. G.(?) Flynn, Millie La Tena, Wm. Stevenson. Wanted, sleeper, combination stock and flat car, chariots, cages . . . Parties having any good circus property for sale, sent list. Will pay cash. Address Downie & Gallagher, Record Show Print, Medina, N.Y. New York Clipper, October 10, 1891, p. 532.
Dock Downie, ventriloquist, and Ella J. Davis, a non-professional, were married at Monticello, Ind., Oct. 5(?), and left immediately on an extended tour of the Eastern cities. They will be at home at Buffalo, N.Y., 2?. New York Clipper, October 17, 1891, p. 535.
Doings at Downie & Gallagher's winter quarters. Mr. Downie, accompanied by his wife, has left for a trip through Canada, Manitoba and British Columbia. On his trip Mr. Downie will purchase heavy draught stock and secure the Wild West features for 1892. They will make a special effort in this department of their shows. At the closing performance of the show, at Medina, which was the first appearance of the Downies there, they were presented with many beautiful floral greetings. Mr. Downie will make his future home at Medina [NY], having already fitted up his new residence in a beautiful manner. ___ have already commenced to build our new wagons and band chariots, and the Record Show Printing Co. are getting up some pretty designs for us. Everything will be new for our opening, and no expense will be spared in making the Downie & Gallagher Show one of the most complete on the road. New York Clipper, October 24, 1891, p. 552.
Doings at Downie & Gallagher's winter quarters. Mr. Gallagher has returned from his trip, bringing with him Don Juan, the educated burro. Downie & Gallagher are proud of their prize, and it will be one of the many features of the show next season. Bob Cunningham is busy breaking more riding monkeys and dogs. The dogs with monky riders, on the hippodrome track, will be among the delightful racers. Mr. and Mrs. Downie report a pleasant time on their trip through the Northwest. They will remain on the road until about March. New York Clipper, November 7, 1891, p. 593.
Among the features of the Downie & Gallagher Shows next season will be Prof. Mathews with his pack of trained Russian wolves, a flock of educated sheep, a troupe of learned Rocky Mountain goats and trick donkeys. New York Clipper, December 5, 1891, p. 649.
1892:
The winter quarters of Downie & Gallagher's Show were completely destroyed by fire on Dec. __. The building was __x100ft., with basement, first and second floors, and loft in which the canvas was stored. In the basement were horses, harnesses and a cow. On the first and second floors were wagons and other show properties, together with fifty tons of hay. The fire was caused by the explosion of a lantern during the feeding of the stock. Mr. Mead(?), who was attending to that duty, had a narrow escape, within barely five minutes of the time of the explosion entirely surrounded by flames. He fortunately escaped with some bad burns. New York Clipper, January 9, 1892, p. 731.
Downie & Gallagher's doings. The burning of our winter quarters will in no way delay or affect the opening of the show. The regular season will commence on May ?, at Medina, N.Y. The show will be brand new throughout. All property lost in the fire is being replaced as fast as possible. New wagons are now well under way, and property has been purchased in the western part of the town, bordering on the N.Y. C.R.R., where new quarters will be will be commenced as soon a the weather permits. Mr. Downie was away at the time of the fire, and is still absent securing needed equipment. New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 745.
Third season, 1892, Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows, Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. Wanted, performers and musicians in all branches - cowboys, Mexicans and Indians, with their own stock; trained animals of all kinds, any good burlesque or colown acts, singing and talking clowns, and good double drummer, must work in concert; all must do more than one act; want six sober billposters, good contracting agent, not afraid to use the brush; boss canvasman, for and six horse drivers, chandelier and property men. Candy stands and sideshow for rent. Show opens at Medina, N.Y., May ?, 1892. Downie & Gallagher, proprietors. Permanent address: "Record" Show Prints, Medina, N.Y. Address Andrew Downie, manager, week of Jan. 11, Keith's Bijou Theatre, Boston, Mass; week of Jan 18, One Hundred and Fifteenth street and Third Avenue, New York City; week of Jan. __, Middleton & Davis' Musee, Scranton, Pa. For sale, or will exchange for any good show property, two __ft. circus flat cars, new, never yet turned a wheel, with all necessary equipments, of will pay cash for good cages, reserve seats, folding backs big top, with middle pieces or lights. Address J. P. Gallagher, Medina, N.Y. New York Clipper, January 16, 1892, p. 754.
C. E. Chamberlain, of Elmira, N.Y., will have charge of the sideshow with Downie & Gallagher's Circus. Leonard and Tracy have secured the refreshment privileges. New York Clipper, January 30, 1892, p. 776.
Wild Burt and Little Sure Shot have been engaged for the Wild West with Downie & Gallagher's Shows. New York Clipper, February 6, 1892, p. 792.
Wanted, for the third season of Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows, Circus, Museum, Hippodrome and Realistic Wild West, performers in all branches. Good outside ascension. Any good burlesque or clown acts for big show. Man to do the catching for return act. Concert people; all must do more than one act. Cornet, alto, baritone and slide trombone to double in band and orchestra. Good double drummer, must do turn in concert. Boss canvasman, three more bill posters, chandelier and property men. Advance agent. Programe privilege for rent. Address Andrew Downie, manager. Permanent address Downie & Gallagher, proprietors, Medina, N.Y. For sale, two brand new flat cars, never yet turned a wheel . . . J. P. Gallagher, Medina, N.Y. New York Clipper, February 20, 1892, p. 838.
Recent additions to Downie & Gallagher's Circus: Mead M. Werntz and wife, Levardo and Fay, Geo. Howard, Bessie Doyle, Wyoming Dick, Wm. Gillette, Ed. Carr, Arthur Matthews, J. C. Hall, Dock Filley, A?? Land and Brockey Burns. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
Mamie Clatton, albino and snake charmer, will be one of the features of the sideshow with the Downie & Gallagher Circus. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 18.
Wanted, for the sideshow with the Downie & Gallahger's Circus, Museum, Hippodrome and Wild West, boss canvasman and a few more freaks. Will pay cash for good hand organ. Address, weeks of March 14, 21, and 28. ___ Chamberlain, Kohn & Middleton's Museum, Chicago, Ill. New York Clipper, March 19, 1892, p. 31.
Prof. ___, with his trained animals, including sheep, goats, donkeys and a pack of Russian wolves, joins Downey [sic] & Gallagher's Railroad Show. New York Clipper, March 26, 1892, p. 34.
Myron R.(?) Johnson, known as Latona, the fire king, has been engaged for the Downie & Gallagher Circus. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
Downie & Gallagher's Doings. Things around our new quarters are humming in every department. All the property lost in the fire on Dec. ?? has been fully replaced. The new top is 130ft.(?) round top with two 30ft.(?) centres. Additions of fourteen head of heavy draught horses, one team of show horses, and four head of ring stock. A feature will be made of the parade, everything being new, wardrobes, chariots, wagons, etc. Prof. Matthews has been engaged for the Downie & Gallagher Show with his troupe of trained animals. He will disposes of his performing goats. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
Prof. Matthews has been engaged for the Downie & Gallagher Show with his troupe of trained animals. He will dispose of his performing goats. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 50.
Third season of Downie & Gallagher's circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. Wanted, performers and musicians, cornet for brass and orchestra, drummer to work in concert, two billposters. Also folding back reserved seats, cages, and any good 12(?)ft. side wall. For sale or exchange for show property, two new __ft. flat cars, fully equipped, and fifteen lengths of eight tier seats. Address: Downie & Gallagher, Medina, N.Y. New York Clipper, April 2, 1892, p. 62.
Wild Burt(?) and Little Sure Shot go to Reading next week, then to Wilkesbarre, and open with Downey [sic] & Gallagher's Circus May 2, for the summer. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 83.
Downie & Gallagher's Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. Call. Report at Medina, N.Y., for rehearsal May 2. Show opens May 5(?). Advance report April 22. Can use a few good single concert people who can play snare drum. For sale, 15 lengths of 8 tier seats and two 50ft. flat cars. Downie & Gallagher, Medina, N.Y. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 92.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. Two high brother act and others, single concert people. Must play snare drum in band; all to do more than one turn. Show opens May ?. Call May 2(?). Downie & Gallagher, Medina, N.Y. New York Clipper, April 23, 1892, p. 108.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows, Circus and Wild West. Singing and talking clown to work in concert, brother and aerial acts. For sale or exchange for horse tent, a dressing room, top and walls in good condition. . . . Address Downie & Gallagher, Buffalo, May _ to __. New York Clipper, May 15, 1892, p. 159.
Doings of Downie & Gallagher's Shows. Business is good and everybody is well and happy. Mrs. Gallagher made the show a brief visit last week. The roster is: Andrew Downie, manager; J. P. Gallagher, treasurer; Ed. Carr, equestrian director; Wm. Ingram, Wm. Gillette, Madden(?) and Lowry, Dock Filley, George Howard, Bessie Doyle, Miller La Tena, Wild Burt and wife, Simco and ___, James Casey . . . J. Edwards, Wyoming Dick, Prof. Mathews, W. C. Manning, Burt Mitchell, Sid. Davis and son . . . Joe Polack . . . Prof. Chamberlain, Mamie Clayton . . . Mrs. Andrew Downie, Mrs. Howard, Mrs. Williams, Shorty McNay . . . C. H. Grinnell, Wm. Stevenson and Ed. Jameson. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
Wanted, for side show with Downie & Gallagher's Circus, a few more freaks, a glass dancer, tattooed people. Address C. E.(?) Chamberlain, care of Downie & Gallagher's Circus, Buffalo, N.Y. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 173.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. Trained dogs, goats, monkeys and donkeys, trick ponies or mules, and riding dog, jugglers and performers. Must join at once. For sale, two 50ft. flat cars, new. Address Downie & Gallagher, Medina, N.Y. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 175.
Doings of the Downie & Gallagher's United Shows. Rain is still with us, and we have yet to pack up a dry top on the wagon. We lost both shows at Buffalo May 19 on account of rain. The ___ including the ring, would have done very well for Paul Boyton's water show, but for a circus performance, never. Despite the weather, however, the boys are enjoying themselves fishing in Lake Erie. Business is far in advance of the weather. Everybody is well and contented. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 178.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Albion NY May 25, Holly 26. New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 183.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows, Circus and Wild West. Twelve canvas men and boss canvas man, also brother act. . . . Downie & Gallagher, Rochester, N.Y. May 30(?) to June 4(?). New York Clipper, May 28, 1892, p. 190.
E.(B.?) K. Franklin, manager of Geary's World Museum and Theatre, has closed his engagement and signed with Downie & Gallagher's Circus for the summer. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 194.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Rochester NY May 30-June 4, Pittsford 6, Fairport 7, Macedon 8, Palmyra 9, Newark 10, Lyons 11. New York Clipper, June 4, 1892, p. 195.
Notes from Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows, Circus and Hippodrome. After 21 days' continued rain, Dr. Casey decided that Mr. Gallagher's yellow dog was a Jonah. Mr. Gallagher visited his home and left the dog there, and when he joined the show the next day, it did not rain - it poured, and continued to pour up to the next day. The boys gave the doctor the laugh for his superstition, and have sentenced him to sleep thirteen nights in No. 13 stateroom. He fears he will never come out alive. He now confesses that as a Jonah discoverer he's a failure. Business has been large and all the people are well. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 210.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Macedon NY June _, Palmyra 9, Newark 10, Lyons 11, Clyde 13, Revennah 14 . . . Seneca Falls 16, 17, Waterloo 18. New York Clipper, June 11, 1892, p. 214.
Notes from Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows. Fine weather has appeared after three weeks of continued rain. A terrific storm struck us at Rochester, N.Y., June 1, when the big top was filled with people. The big top snapped with the strong wind, and the dressing room top came down upon performers and horses, giving no one a chance to change their tights. The lady performers were taken to a place of safety, where they were provided with dresses and sent home. Everything in the lot was floating, the sideshow and paintings being the first to go down. . . . Everything is now, however, running smoothly. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
Wanted, for sideshow, with Downie & Gallagher's Circus, a few more freaks, glass dancer, or Zulus, tattoed people. Address as per route, ?. E. Chamberlain, manager care Downie & Gallagher's Circus. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 241.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. Alto to double second violin, cornet to double in orchestra, other musicians. And several big show acts. Candy privileges to rent. . . . New York Clipper, June 25, 1892, p. 257.
Doings of Downie & Gallagher's Show. We have just finished our eighth week of continued success. We have had many blow downs and storms, and other accidents, but the first to cast gloom was the drowning of J. Sullivan near Geneva, on the morning of July 22(?). Every effort was made to save the young man, but without avail. We showed Dresden 2?. It is one of the oldest towns in the state, and ours was the first circus that ever pitched a tent there. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 261.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Itaca NY June 29, 30, Aurora July 1 . . . Farmer Village 4, Union Springs 5, Weedsport 6, Jordan 7 . . . Syracuse 9-15. New York Clipper, July 2, 1892, p. 265.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Weedsport NY July 6, Jordan 7, Memphis 8 . . . Syracuse 11-16. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 281.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's Circus and Wild West, alto to double second violin, cornet for band and orchestra, other musicians, a few acts for big show. Wire or write as per route. For sale, two new 50(?)ft. flat cars at a sacrifice. Will buy good 110ft. top with two 50ft. centres. Address Downie & Gallagher, Syracuse, N.Y., July 11 to 16. New York Clipper, July 9, 1892, p. 290.
Doings of Downie & Gallagher's Circus. On July 7(?) we purchased Harry(?) Montford's Floating Palace of Wonders, which we are having converted into a horse palace. We now have a full and complete fleet. Many of the boys are happy since we left the stormy Seneca. It would not do to mention names for criticism, but we have a great number of men that make far better musician [sic] and performers than sailors. . . . New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 292.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, Syracuse NY July 11-16. New York Clipper, July 16, 1892, p. 296.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, . . . Baldwinsville, NY 22, Liverpool 23, East Syracuse 25, Fayetteville 26, Manlin? 27, Kirksville 28 . . . New York Clipper, July 23, 1892, p. 300.
At Phoenix, N.Y., Deputy Sheriff Vickery and two officers attemped to attach the property of Downie & Gallagher's Circus for damages to a canal ___. The circus men opened fire on the officers, and a riot followed, in which one of the officers, Daniel(?) McGa?er, and one of the circus men were dangerously wounded. The officers were driven off, but the affair attracted a large number of villagers to the scene, who vowed vengeance on the circus men. Lynchings(?) were threatened, but wise counsels prevailed. The villagers . . . overpowered the circus men, and dragged twelve of them to the village lockup. Then, for fear they would escape, the crowd stood guard until morning. It is thought the two injured men will die. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 324.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. Boss canvas man, two cornet players to double in orchestra, alto and second violin, trombone player. Will buy good 100ft. or 100ft. top with two middle pieces, or any good show property. For sale, two __ft. flat cars. Address Downie & Gallagher, Kirkville, N.Y. July 28 . . . Canastota, N.Y. 30, Oneida N.Y. Aug 1, New London, N.Y. 2, Rome, N.Y. 3, Oriskany, N.Y. 4, Whitesboro, N.Y. 5, Utica, N.Y. 6 and 8. New York Clipper, July 30, 1892, p. 337.
Doings of the Downie & Gallagher Shows. The affair at Phoenix, in which this show has suffered severe criticism, deserves explanation, in justice to us. When we reached Phoenix, morning of July 21, a boatman named Merritt called on Downie & Gallagher and said that he was told that their flat boat, which stands only two feet above the water, had damanged a boat belonging to him. The steersman on our boat informed the manager that he had not touched Merritt's boat, and investigation proved that it would be impossible, as the slight damage that was done was between four and five feet above the water, and the boat that he claimed did it only stands two feet above the water. He then said it was hard times and he could not affort to stand any damage, and some one should settle for it. That was all that was heard of it until eight o'clock in the evening, when Deputy Sheriff McVicky called at the ticket wagon and informed Mr. Gallagher that he had two bills against the show, one for damage to a boat and another for posting bills on a shed without a privilege. Mr. Gallagher showed a contract for the use of the shed, and said they had done no damage to the boat. The deputy tried to bluff Mr. Gallagher by saying he would issue a warrant for his arrest, at which Mr. Gallagher laughed and replied: "It is but a civil(?) action; you can't get a warrant on that. However, go ahead. I will be here when you want me." The officer threatened to hold up the show, when Mr. Gallagher replied: "We will deposit any amount of money with any good, responsible citizen as a guarantee, and then we will stand suit in both cases," at which the deputy replied: "We are going to have it settled now," trying to make his bluff work. He then left the lot, and that was all that was heard until ten o'clock, when Washington Wilson, steersman of the flat boat, came to the lot and informed Mr. Galagher that the officers has taken possession of the boat. A number of new men and wagons had already gone to the boat to load it. Downie & Gallagher, knowing the state laws, were aware that the officers were trespassers on their property. Officer McGahn(?) stood on the boat with revolver and club, trying to scare our proprietors into settling. Mr. Gallagher went on the boat, where McGahn(?) stood, and asked him who cast off the boat's ropes. The officer replied that he did. Mr. Gallagher said: "You have violated the marine laws, and we will make you suffer for it." Mr. Gallagher asked his name. He said: "It is Hiram McGahn(?)." "Now(?)," Mr. Gallagher said, "we have come here to load(?) our boats. You have no right on here, and we don't want to have any trouble with you, so get off the boat." At which McGahn(?) replied, drawing his revolver: "I will shoot the first ____ that attempts to put on or take anything off this boat," pointing his revolver at Mr. Gallagher, when one of the showmen, named Harrison, ??? up. McGahn(?) fired, and the ball hit him. Then McGahn fired two or three shots each taking effect ?? Harrison, when the other men rushed up and the officer was pushed into the canal. There were other officers stationed around the boat, who commenced firing, but when some of the showmen turned on them they ran. Not one of the circus men had a revolver. The affair attracted a large crowd of citizens, who at first thought the show people to blame, and thought best to lock them up. The men made no resistance. There was no violence, and if they cared to get out it would have been no trouble, as they were all in one room in the engine house, and the officer that they put on guard got so drunk before morning that he was not able to walk. Downie & Gallagher ___ that the entire preceeding was illegal, and gave the officials all the rope they wanted. Mr. Gallagher went to Medina, their home, to consult their lawyers, and when he got back to Phoenix they had discharged all but Mr. Downie. Later they saw their error, and tried to square matters, but without avail. We have sued(?) McGahn, his ___ and the Corporation of Phoenix for $___ damages, and have also sued McGahn for assault with intent to kill. The affair created a great deal of excitement, and we feared it might affect our business, but, to our surprise, we find it has been the best advertising medium we have had, as people come in thousands for miles to see the show. We lost but one stand, Baldwinville, July 2?. There was no damage to any of the show property, and everybody with the show is happy. We are having fair weather, and intend enlarging our show Aug. 1. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 340.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, Whitesboro NY Aug 4, Utica 5, 6, Frankfort 8, Ilion 9, Mohawk 10, Herkimer 11, Little Falls 12, 13. New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 341.
Wanted, for Downie & Gallagher's Operatic Minstrels, season 1892-3 . . . New York Clipper, August 6, 1892, p. 350.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher's, Mohawk NY Aug 10, Herkimer, 11, Little Falls 12, 13, St. Johnsville 15, Fort Plain 16 . . . Fonda 18 . . . Amsterdam 20. New York Clipper, August 13, 1892, p. 360.
On the road, circuses: Downing & Gallagher's, Canajoharie NY Aug 17, Fonda 18, Fort Hunter 19, Amsterdam 20. New York Clipper, August 20, 1892, p. 376.
Doings of the Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows. We have had excellent circus weather for the past week, and business has been the largest of any week this season. Our advance lost a great deal of time ___ the railroad strike at Buffalo, and the show lost ___ of paper in the cars burned(?), but our hustling agent, F.(?) K. Franklin, is now doing some very clever and attractive advertising in blanketing the large stands and with the use of a paint brush, his ___ work is attracting a great deal of attention. New York Clipper, August 27, 1892, p. 389.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, West Troy NY Aug 26, 27 . . . New York Clipper, August 27, 1892, p. 393.
Doings of Downie & Gallagher's New United Shows, Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. At Schenectady, Aug. 22, we played with the Forepaugh Show, and, despite the strong opposition, business was good. Both shows arrived there 21, and, as they were near each other, a general visiting was kept up until late Sunday evening. Among the many callers from the Forepaugh Show were Phil Gibbons, the Ducros, Jim Irwin and wife, the Wentworths, Ashton and wife, and Mr. Cooper, and an enjoyable evening was passed. This was the second time this season that we palyed with the Forepaugh Show, and we hope to play a third, as it is a pleasure to meet in friendly opposition. Carmen Alvarez and Rio Grand Bill, late of the Buffalo Bill Wild West, joined at Cohoes 24, and both are doing clever riding and roping. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 422.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Crown Point NY Sep 7, West Point 8, Hillsboro 9 . . . Port Henry 14, Moriah(?) 15, Ticonderoga 16, Fort Ann 17. New York Clipper, September 10, 1892, p. 427.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Port Henry N.Y. Sep 17 . . . Ticonderoga 16, Fort Ann 17. New York Clipper, September 17, 1892, p. 443.
Doings of the Downie & Gallagher Shows. This is the nineteenth week of the season, and a week that every member of the company will remember, as the banner one, not for business, but for amusement, for it was impossible to make a stand until Sept. 16(?). We showed Plattsburg, N.Y., Sept. 10, and were billed for Keensville(?) 12, but the seas was [sic] so heavy 17, that is was not safe to pull out. It continued to roll all Saturday night, Sunday and Sunday night, and at five a.m. Monday morning 1?, we decided to brave the storm, so started out. At seven o'clock we were obliged to go to Valcour(?) Island for shelter, and there our amusement continued. It was a regular "day off with the circus." New York Clipper, September 24, 1892, p. 456.
C. E. Chamberlain has closed with Downie & Gallagher's Circus, and is playing fairs in partnership with F. M. Vernelo. They will shortly put out a traveling museum. New York Clipper, October 1, 1892, p. 472.
Downie & Gallagher's doings. We closed our third circus season at Medina, N.Y., Oct. 8. Our fourth season will open at Medina next May. Everything is hustle and bustle about winter quarters, painting the special scenery and arranging the spectacular effects for the opening of our operatic minstrels Nov. 21. . . . Mr. and Mrs. Downie are visiting Mrs. Downie's parents at Manitoba. . . . New York Clipper, October 29, 1892, p. 538.
Wm. Ingham, of Carr and Ingram, is having a new rigging for his act patented which he will introduce with the Downie & Gallagher's Operatic Minstrels. Downie & Gallagher will carry all special setting and scenery for their spectacle, "The Landing of Columbus." Mr. Downie will go with the minstrels. Mr. Gallagher will stay at Medina, and look after the fitting out of the circus for 1893, which will be entirely rebuilt and enlarged in every department to twice its former size. New York Clipper, November 5, 1892, p. 557.
___, leader, and the musicians of Downie & Gallagher's Circus complain of their treatment by the management of that show. New York Clipper, November 19, 1892, p. 586.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Medina N.Y. Nov. 21, Holly 22, Brocksport 23, Palmyra 24. New York Clipper, November 19, 1892, p. 587.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Brocksport NY Nov 23, Palmyra 24, Tonawanda 2?, Akron 29, Dundee Dec 1. New York Clipper, November 26, 1892, p. 603.
On the road, circuses: Downie & Gallagher, Akron NY Nov 30, Dundee Dec 1. New York Clipper, December 3, 1892, p. 621.
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Andrew Downie's - 1893, 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1905, 1909-1911, 1924
1893:
Notes from Andrew Downie's New United Shows. Our season opened at Cleveland, O., May 18(?). The tents were crowded at the opening performances, and business has continued the same right along. The show is running smoothly and gives great satisfaction. May 2? as ??? struck us, completely [unreadable text] A large section of our middle piece was ___ from the South to the East side of the city, . . . Andrew Downie is sole owner . . . Geo. Le Grande, lithographer. New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
On the road, circuses: Andrew Downie, Cleveland OH May 29-June 10(?). New York Clipper, June 3, 1893, p. 198.
Am I in it? Well, I guess yes. Andrew Downie's Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. Wanted, concert team to sell concert and reserve seat tickets, two candy butchers, or will rent candy privilege. Wanted to rent, sleeping car and flat cars for six months, with the privilege of buying the same. Address Andrew Downie, sole owner, till June _, Cleveland, O., June ___, Akron, O. New York Clipper, June 10, 1893, p. 227.
On the road, circuses: Downie's, Columbus OH July ?-8, Springfield 10, 11, Dayton 12, 13, Hamilton(?) 14, 15. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 281.
The Andrew Downie Shows is reported to have gone to the wall July _ at Cleveland, O. There is the old tale to tell of unpaid salaries, delinquent board bills, etc. Buckskin(?) Bill saved his ___ in a measure by attaching the trunks for money due him for his five(?) cars. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
On the road, circuses: Downie's, Dayton, OH July 12, 13, Hamilton 14, 15, Cincinnati 17-__. New York Clipper, July 15, 1893, p. 296.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. We are now in our tenth week of success, notwithstanding all rumors to the contrary. The show has been doing a good business from our opening, playing to only one losing week. Jockey Ed. Carr, who was hurt at Canton, has resumed work. We are now playing a return date at Akron, O. Business is satisfactory. A new __ft. sideshow and six new sideshow paintings have arrived and everything is progressing finely. The thief who robbed our sleeping car has been caught and most of the goods returned. Manager Downie is preparing for his Winter show. New York Clipper, July 29, 1893, p. 328.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Circus. We are playing return engagements, and business is far above expectations. While at Akron, O., recently, manager Downie, while doing his flying return act, had the misfortune to dislocate his ankle, which will lay him up for a few days. . . . New York Clipper, August 12, 1893, p. 362.
Notes from Andrew Downie's Circus, Hippodrome and Wild West. We have had splendid circus weather for the past two weeks and business has been excellent. The show closes about Oct. _, at Hamilton, O. The stock will be shipped to Cincinnati and sold by public auction, as Manager Downie will winter only four trick horses and two donkeys. He has already booked a large number of first class houses for his winter show, and will travel in his special dining and sleeping car. Carr and Ingram(?) leave to join a company for the winter Sept. 22. Mr. Downie will build a fine ring barn and winter quarters at his home, Median, N.Y., having purchased the land last week. New York Clipper, September 23, 1893, p. 463.
1894: Sixth season, Andrew Downie's Grand Double Mammoth Spectacular "Uncle Tom's Cabin," and "Ten Nights in a Bar Room," traveling in our own vestibule palace cars. . . . Address Andrew Downie, sole owner and proprietor, permanent address, Medina, N.Y. P.S. Regards to circus m'g'rs for kind offers for tenting season. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 828.
• In 1905 Andrew Downie framed a wagon circus, Downie Bros. World's Greatest Dog, Pony and Trained Animal Show. In 1906 he put this show on rails. Bandwagon, July-August, 1977, p. 4.
1909: Andrew Downie's Show: A. D. McPhee, proprietor; Andrew Downie, manager; Robt. Taylor, general agent and R. R. contractor; E. C. Whitney, special agent; Wm. Smith, excursion agent; J. H. Jones, press agent; H. Mothersill, manager side show; Mrs. A. D. McPhee, treasurer; Dock Downie, manager commissary dept.; Robert Gilbert, equestrian director; Gibb Writt, supt. of canvas; Al Jones, supt. of animals and elephants; Fred Forrester, supt. of privileges; Billy Hibbard, supt. of stock; J. P. Harrison, supt. of props.; Till Bridle, leader of band. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
1910: Roster of car No. 1 of the Andrew Downie Dog and Pony Show: F. E. Davis, general agent; W. L. Davis, contracting agent; C. T. Klugherz, special agent; R. C. Hagerman, lithographer; French Pierrault, boss billposter; F. C. Carpenter, Arthur Baum, Tommy Ross, Harry Rose, Tom Flynn, Max McDonal, Harry Klein, Ed. Green, Jack McCormick, billposters; Frenchy Robbellio, paste maker. Billboard, October 22, 1910.
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Downie & Wheeler - 1911-13 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1911-13
• Brief information on the 1911 Downie & Wheeler show is online in Bandwagon, Mar-Apr 1963 (scroll down or use find).
1912:
Downie and Wheeler Show - Andrew Downie and Al. F. Wheeler, props.; John F. Stowe, mgr.; J. R. Bullock, treas.; Fred Forrester, auditor; F. J. Frink, general agent and railroad contractor; George Roberts, local contractor; Guy Wescott and John Hays, special agents; Frank Estes, contracting press agent; Al. F. Wheeler, Jr., press agent back with show; W. P. Wachtel, excursion agent; Wm. Greiner, mgr. side show; Bernard Dooley, equestrian director; D. Q. Miller, general supt.; C. Downie, supt. privileges; J. S. Phillips, musical director; Murray Thatcher, supt. reserved seat tickets; George Coy, supt. canvas; Will E. Chambers, train-master; Frank Corey, boss hostler; Gus Berry, supt. commissary dept.; F. M. Koen, supt. lights; James Ma?k, supt. properties; Bud. Gage, supt. ring stock; Frank Corey, supt. stock; Elmer Myers, twenty-four hour agent; Chas. Cole, supt. elephants; Gibby George, boss carpenter; Capt. H. Snider, supt. animals; Peter Ja?ques, blacksmith; Frank Estes, mgr. advertising car No. 1; Wm. Jack, mgr. advertising car No. 2; Fred E. Wheeler, checker-up; J. R. Foster, legal adjuster; W. F. Greiner, announcer. Show opened at Valdosta, Ga., March 9. Billboard, March 23, 1912.
Privileges with the Downie & Wheeler Shows include photos, J. K. Milford and two assistants; William Sullivan's 3-in-1 show, Doc Hastings' pit show with six-legged cow and baby rhino, and Harry Pilkinton, badge board. Billboard, April 6, 1912, p. 27.
1913: Downie and Wheeler Show - Andrew Downie and Al. F. Wheeler, proprietors and managers; Ed. M. Jackson, assistant manager; Ernest H. Albright, treasurer; Fred C. Marshal, secretary; Chas. E. Cramer, auditor; F. J. Frink, general agent and railroad contractor; Parson Miller, local contractor; W. H. Selvage and Geo. Caron, special agents; Harry C. Curtis, contracting press agent; Harry W. Harkness, advance press agent; Al. F. Wheeler Jr., press agent back with show; Ed. C. Welch, excursion agent; E. J. Kelly, sideshow manager; Orrin Hollis, equestrian director; C. E. McPhee, superintendent privileges; Eugene A. Welker, musical director; Al. F. Wheeler Jr., superintendent reserved seat tickets; Geo. Coy, superintendent canvas; Clint A. Graham, trainmaster; Chas. Evans, boss hostler; Frank W. Green, superintendent commissary department; F. M. Koen, superintendent lights; Chancy Jacobs, superintendent props; Harry Rodney, superintendent ring stock; Chas. Evans, superintendent stock; Geo. Coy, superintendent working crew; Chas. R. Dickey, 24-hour agent; Walter Allen, superintendent elephants; Luce Henry, boss carpenter; Capt. H. Snider, superintendent animals; John Foley, blacksmith; Harry C. Curtis, manager advertising car No. 1; Fred E. Wheeler, checker-up; J. H. Huntley, legal adjuster; Frank E. Belmont, announcer. Show opens at Oxford, Pa., April 19. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
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• In 1911 Downie had entered into partnership with Al F. Wheeler to form the Downie & Wheeler Circus. At the close of the 1913 season this partnership was dissolved and Downie launched his La Tena's Big 3 Ring Wild Animal Circus in 1914. Bandwagon, July-August, 1977, p. 4.
• See LaTena's show.
Downie Bros. - 1926-29 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1926-1929
• Article on 1926 Downie Bros. Wild Animal Circus is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1963 (scroll down or use find).
• Andrew Downie came out of retirement in the winter of 1926-27 to launch the Downie Bros. Circus. He joined with Clarence Austin in 1884 in a one-ring show titled Downie & Austin Parlor Circus. For several years he piloted the Rich & Downie Circus, Andrew Downie's Dog & Pony Circus, Downie & Gallagher, and Downie and Wheeler. The 1926 show was the first large circus fully motorized circus that lasted an entire season. Bandwagon, November-December, 1975, Vol. 19, No. 6, pp. 5.
• An article on the 1926-1929 Downie Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, November-December, 1975, Vol. 19, No. 6, pp. 4-19.
Downie Bros. - 1930-31, 1935 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1930-1938, 1939
1930:
Chas. Sparks purchased from Andrew Downie, the Downie Bros. Circus (largest motorized) March 13, 1930 at Havre de Grace, Md. "Circus Changes of the Past," C. E. Duble, Note Sheet No. 5 (Circus Historical Society), November 16, 1942.
• Article on the 1930-31 Downie Bros. show is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1976
• Article on the 1932-33 Downie Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, March-April, 1976, Vol. 20, No. 2, pp. 3-14.
1935: Show covered 17 states, making 173 stops, with six in Alabama, one in Connecticut, ten in Florida, nineteen in Georgia, four in Kent, sixteen in Maine, fourteen in Massachusetts, six in New Hampshire, thirteen in New York, nineteen in North Carolina, thirteen in Ohio, twenty-two in Pennsylvania, one in Rhode Island, twelve in South Carolina, eight in Tennessee, four in Vermont, and five in West Virginia. Bandwagon, August 15, 1945, Vol. 4, No. 4, p. 6.
• Article on the 1934-35 Downie Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1976, Vol. 20, No. 3, pp. 15-26.
• Article on the 1936-37 Downie Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, July-August, 1976, Vol. 20, No. 4, pp. 16-29.
• An article on the 1938-1939 Downie Bros. Circus is in Bandwagon, September-October, 1976, Vol. 20, No. 5, pp. 11-25.
Downie Bros. Circus - 1994
The Downie Bros. title returned for the first time since 1939 when in 1994 when Bradd and Jeanette Tompkins used the title on their December dates in Connecticut. Bandwagon, March-April, 1995, p. 17.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1994, James Ladini, owner.
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Drake & Falkner - 1905
1905: F. W. Falkner writes: "The Drake & Faulkner New United R. R. Shows recently purchased the bulk of the McFarland & Holder Shows at the sale in Philadelphia. . . . " New York Clipper, February 18, 1905, p. 1229.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1905.
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Drake Bros. Circus - 1929 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1929
Bolivar, June 19, Drake Bros. Circus, big one ring performance. Trained animals, horses, dogs, ponies, monkeys, bears, et. Acrobats, gymnasts, aerial artists, Toto Family of Japanese arenic celebrities, clowns. Bolivar Breeze (Bolivar, NY), June 13, 1929, n.p.n.
• Quarters at Charleston, West Virginia, twenty trucks. Bannerline, February 1, 1953, p. 1.
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, James Davidson, proprietor, 1929.
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Dream Circus - 1991
Armando Farfan's show, Dream Circus, debuted in Tokyo in late December and remained in Japan through Spring. It reopened under canvas in San Diego June 28. The show played California until at least mid-November. Bandwagon, January-February, 1992, p. 9.
• Dream Clown Circus is listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1991, Armando Farfan, owner.
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Herr Driesbach & Co.'s - 1856-57 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1856-57
1856:
[Advertisement] Herr Driesbach & Co.'s Great Colossal Consolidated Circus and Menagerie! The most extensive travelling exhibition of the age, with a double troupe1 of equestrians, acrobats & voltigeurs, and a collection of rare and beautiful animals, selected by special agents in Europe, Asia, Africa and America, among which may be found the only living giraffe in America. Will exhibit at Milwaukee on Thursday and Friday, July 10 and 11, at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2 p.m. Admittance to the whole exhibiton under one mammoth canvass, Boxes 50 cents; children 25 cents; Pit 25 cents.
Among the artists of the equestrian and gymnastic departments are the following array of the first of their profession: M'lle Zamesou, late premier equestrienne from Paris. Eaton Stone, the great champion bare back rider. W. H. Stout, the brilliant four and six horse equestrian. B. Stevens, the daring and classic principal horseman. Arthur Branes, the great English vaulter and 100 somerset man. The Jamieson Family, whose antipodean and Grecian feats have never been approached by any other artists. C. Walters, the daring gymnast and dashing equestrian. W. Davis, the extraordinary Perche performer and American acrobat. The Juvenile Graces, Irene, Sophia and Jennie, three beautiful disciples of the Goddess Terpsichore. Mr. W. Worrell, emphatically the clown of the age, the most original wit and humorist in the country. T. Burgess, the famous Western jester. And a compete troupe of voltigeurs, dramatists & pantomimists.
The brilliant cortage will parade town upon the morning of the day of exhibition, preceded by Herr Niebur's Military Band. The world renowned lion tamer Herr Driesbach, will close each performance by entering the cages and performing with his trained lions, tigers and leopards. During the month the company will exhibit in most of the principal places of Wisconsin. Milwaukee Dailey Sentinel (WI), June 21, 1856, n.p.n.
A correspondent of the Chicago Tribune sends that paper the following warning: You will confer a favor by informing the public through your columns that there are a number of blacklegs travelling through the country with Driesbach & Co.'s Circus, passing a large quantity of counterfeit money. It is supposed that $100 were circulated in this small vilage on the day of the performance. It would be well for country people to be on their guard. The denomination are chiefly $10's on the Commercial Bank, Kingston, C. W. Shelton, Thornton Station, June 21, 1856. Milwaukee Dailey Sentinel (WI), June 25, 1856, n.p.n.
1857:
[Advertisement] Herr Driesbach & Co.'s Menagerie and Circus! One consolidated exhibition. The largest in America. 250 men and horses. Only one price to the whole. Manager, C. L. Wheeler. Clown, Sam Lathrop. Will exhibit at Burlington, Friday, June 19th. For one day only. Doors open at 2 and 7 o'clock p.m. Admission 50 cents. Children 25 cents.
A full menagerie embracing all that is rare and instructive in the animal world. The Giraffe! the greatest natural curiosity ever with a travelling exhibition now attached to this mammoth enterprise, and is the only one living in America, and may be seen without extra charge. Hannibal, the mammoth elephant! weighing 15,000 lbs. The largest pair of Asiatic lions ever exhibited in any country. Daring and indrepid courage of an Arab entering the dens of the lions, tigers, &c.
In conjunction with the above extensive zoological department, the managers have added a chaste and elegant circus. Consisting of S. P. Stickney & Family! M'lle Sallie, La Petite Lalla, Master Robert, and Little Sam, yclept "Young American." M'lle E. M. Dickenson, E. D. Slowman, Herr Shiel, Leslie May, and Messrs. Edwards, Dooly, Napoleon, Rentz, Filkins, &c. A freshly trained stud of pure Arabian and English blooded horses. The celebrated trick ponies, Black Jack, Dorn, and Lightning. Nieuber's Military Band will delight all lovers of music. A magnificent procession on entering town. For minute description, see large pictorials, &c. O. J. Ferguson, agent.
Particular announcement. Persons living a distance from town are notified that about 1 o'clock in the afternoon, wind and weather permitting (a young and beautiful lady), M'lle Fredericks will walk a single wire from the ground to the top of the highest flag staff of Driesbach & Co.'s Mammoth Pavilion, a distance of 800 feet and 48 feet from the ground. This grand and terrific ascension will take place outside of the pavillion, and of course is free to all. [Note: Nixon & Kemp's was advertised on the same page to be in Burlington June 13.] Daily Hawk-Eye and Telegraph (Burlington, IA), June 6, 1857, n.p.n.
• 1857: information is online at Clipper, May 30, Clipper, July 18 (scroll down)
• Herr Driesbach & Co.'s Menagerie and Circus played Kansas in May. The show claimed 250 men and horses and said that the menagerie had a giraffe, the elephant Hannibal, and lions. The performance featured the Stickney family. More on this show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1987, Vol. 31, No. 3, p. 5.
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Herr Driesbach & Co. & Mabie & Co.'s - 1853 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1853
• This show, P. A. Older, manager, went up the Missouri River as far as St. Joseph, Missouri, where the show played August 5, 1853. Their advertisement listed exhibitions in Missouri towns: Barry, August 1; Platte City, 2; Weston, 3; DeKalb, 4; St. Joseph, 5; Savanna, 6. Bandwagon, November-December, 1996, Vol. 40, No. 6, p. 68.
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DuBois Circus (Canada)
• This was a new circus in 1976. Bandwagon, January-February, 1977, p. 21.
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Dubsky Bros. & Jordan Circus
• This show was out in 1977. Bandwagon, March-April, 1978, p. 28.
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Dan Ducello's - 1874, 1877, 1879, 1880 (formerly Consolidated Circus)
1874: Dan Ducello's Texas Show, with Maud Gibb's Menagerie, exhibits at Halifax, N.S. New York Clipper, August 8, 1874, p. 151.
1877: Stanley's Museum opens in Portland, Me., this week, in a building erected by the manager for the purpose. This is the menagerie portion of the Dan Ducello Show, that traveled through the eastern section of that State and the provinces during the Summer season. Dan Ducello is the animal trainer. New York Clipper, November 24, 1877, p. 279.
1879:
Dan Ducello's United Exhibitions were in Mansfield, Mass., July 10 . . . The show includes the Rodney Brothers, acrobats and gymnasts; Mr. Gardiner, song-and-dance; Myles O. Gorman in a lightning zouave drill and Irish specialites; Charles Reickwood(?), banjoist and comedian; Mons. Lerous, cloud swing; Mr. Peel, clog-dancer; Mons. Tierney, contortionist; Dan Ducello and his performing lions, a baby elephant and a trick mule. J. J. Baker leads the brass band, and Mr. Glassford the string orchestra. New York Clipper, July 19, 1879, p. 135.
Dan Ducello's United Exhibition closed a season of six months' duration at Freeport, Me.(?), Oct. 17. Mr. and Mrs. Ducello, Fred Costello and W. H. Miller(?) went to Portland; Mons. Leroux to Waterbury, Ct.; . . . and H. H. Kingman to Boston. New York Clipper, October 25, 1879, p. 243.
1880: Dan Ducello's New United Exhibitions showed in Schago Lake, Me., Sept. 23, Raymond 24, and closed their season in North Windham 25, driving thence to Winter quarters in Freeport. The destinations of the company: Mr. and Mrs. Ducello, to Portland, Me.; Arthur Wentworth, Camden, N.J.; J. S. Lord, West Gloucester, Mass.; F. H. Morse, New Gloucester, Me.; Charles Brickwood, Haverhill, Mass.; Bryant and Leahy, Newburyport; and Frank Hartell, Manchester, N.H. New York Clipper, October 2, 1880, p. 219.
• 1881: Dan Ducello, a showman, while an attempt was being made to arrest him in a civil action in North Troy, Vt., July 22, drew a revolver and made an effort to shoot Officer Hammond and his assistant. He was disarmed, and is to be criminally proceeded against. New York Clipper, July 30, 1881, p. 306.
• 1881: Dan Ducello writes the Clipper concerning the shooting affair reported in our issue of July 30: "In Newport Centre, Vt., at midnight, July 23, Officer Hammond and a number of persons, including a lawyer, came to my room in a hotel, and, without stating their business, broke open the door and entered my apartment. They broke down the bed and injured my wife so that she was unable to perform for several days afterwards. They were all under the influence of liquor. I fired into the crowd, and they left the room very quickly. Officer Hammond did have a writ for me, but he was not in a fit condition to do his duty, and he did not attempt to arrest me. I was arrested four days later for firing into the crowd, and at the trial I was honorably acquitted. I have commenced suits for damages against all the parties concerned." New York Clipper, August 13, 1881, p. 327.
• 1885: Dan Ducello, proprietor of Ducello's United Exhibitions (formerly Consolidated Circus), was married at Davenport, N.Y., July 9, to a young lady of his company. She is his third wife. They are now traveling South, and he reports good business. New York Clipper, January 17, 1885, p. 693.
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Duchack’s - 1888-89
• Duchack's Great New London Consolidated Railroad Shows; Duchack's New London Circus; Duchack's Ten Cent Shows; L. J. Duchack's New London Railroad Circus; L. J. Duchack Ten & Twenty-Five Cent Circus
1888:
Wanted for coming season, circus people in all branches except riders for Duchack's New London Circus. Also troupe of performing dogs. Candy privileges for sale. L. J. Duchack, prop., Sparta, Wis. New York Clipper, March 17, 1888, p. 18.
Call. All people engaged for Duchack Great New London Consolidated Railroad Shows, except musicians, report at Sparta, May 2, for rehearsal. Frank Ritman, leader of band, will notify musicians by mail. Wanted, 2 lady aerial acts. Show opens May 5. L. J. Duchack, Sparta, Wis. New York Clipper, April 28, 1888, p. 112.
Roster of Duchack's New London Circus. Business staff: L. J. Duchack, proprietor; C. S. McCoy, business manager; Archie Lloyd, treasurer; Harry moore, general agent. Department chiefs: John Herbert, A. Hovey, Frank Putnam. Performers: L. P. Stone, L. I. Harper . . . Sig. Zano, Frank Howard, W. McPherson, Rodell Bros., Stanley and Howard, Zara Le Mars, Fannie McGlasson and Mrs. Georgie Carter. The troupe opens its season early in May, at Portland, Ore., traveling through the Northwest. [Note: the show probably did not open in Portland or travel in the Northwest.] New York Clipper, April 28, 1888, p. 114.
L. J. Duchack, manager, wants personnel. Call advertisement for all engaged personnel except musicians - Sparta, Wisconsin on May 2. At LaCrosse, Wisconsin May 31 for three days, big business. Wm. Miaco and family joined here. Lew Duchack is from La Crosse, Wisconsin. At Nebraska City, Nebraska, July 19-21, immense crowds. New York Clipper, June 9, 1888, p. 201; June 16, 1888, p. 215; July 28, 1888, p. 310.
1889:
Wanted for L. J. Duchack's New London R. R. Circus, artists in all branches of circus business. Also concert specialty, band leader, boss canvasman, boss hostler. Would like to buy Pullman sleeper. L. J. Duchack, Sparta, Wis. New York Clipper, March 16, 1889, p. 15.
Call. All people engaged for L. J. Duchack's New London Railroad Circus report at Kansas City, April 27. Wanted, performer to do brother act and horizontal bars. L. J. Duchack, Kansas City, Mo. New York Clipper, April 13, 1889, p. 85.
Duchack's New London Circus opens its season at Kansas City, Mo., April 29. The outfit consists of four cars, 100ft. round top tent with three 30ft. middle pieces, eight head of ring stock and fifty people. S. J. Duchack [sic L. J.] is proprietor and manager . . . M. E. Ashton, general agent with ten assistants. The show will make one day stands after leaving Kansas City. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889, p. 107.
Roster of L. J. Duchack's New London Railroad Shows: L. J. Duchack, proprietor and manager; Wm. Gore, assistant manager . . . Col. Walter Southgate, general director; Archie L. Loyd, treasurer; Harry Gray, general agent with five assistants. Performers: Dyke Englemann, Wm. De Lacy, John Vanang and Lee, Adolph Enlow, Thos. McGovern . . . Mons. Zero, Wm. Odell, Chas. Cass, Fields and Bruddell, Perry Cutler, Lizzie Taylor. The canvas is a 100ft. round top with a 50ft. middle piece. New York Clipper, May 25, 1889, p. 175.
Good business is the report from L. J. Duchack's New London Show. Eight horses and two trick mules have recently been added to the stock. The show is touring Iowa and making one day stands. New York Clipper, June 8, 1889, p. 207.
Duchack’s New London Circus opens its season at Kansas City, Mo., April 29. The outfit consists of four cars, 100 ft. round top tent, with three 30 ft. middle pieces, eight head of ring stock and fifty people. S. J. Ducheck is proprietor and managers, . . . and M. E. Ashton general agent with ten assistants. The show will make one days stands after leaving Kansas. New York Clipper, April 27, 1889. L. J. Duchack's New London Old Time one-Ring Circus will exhibit in Humeston, May 28 . . . This is their 6th year on the road . . . New Era (Humeston, IA), May 22, 1889. Duchack's circus . . . admission 10 and 20 cents. Davenport (IA) Morning Tribune, June 20, 1889.
Harry Gray from Howe's London Shows is now general agent of this show in place of M. E. Ashton. Atchinson, Kansas - tenting season opened here on May 18 at ten cents. Announced the opening for May 17, but heavy rain prevented it. Toured Iowa, one day stands, has 8 horses and two trick mules. Wm. DeLacey, knockabout clown, is now with the show. Fair crowd at Fairfield, Iowa; Wm. DeLacy seriously injured in double somersault over 5 horses and three men. New York Clipper, May 11, 1889, p. 141; June 1, 1889, p. 188; June 8, 1889, p. 207; June 15, 1889, p. 225; June 22, 1889, p. 247.
At Burlington, Iowa, June 18-20, light business. At Ottumwa, Iowa on June 14, good business. Opposition to Robinson's Floating Palace at Burlington. Wm. Gore left the show at Burlington, Iowa. M. E. Ashton, late manager, now on Lottie May Burlesque Co. Went to pieces at Fulton, Illinois. The remains of the show came to Burlington, Iowa by steamer Park Bluff. Had bad business since the start. Will attempt to reorganize. The entire outfit at Burlington in charge of Col. Hunt who says the show will reorganized this Fall and go South. New York Clipper, June 29, 1889, p. 255, 257; July 6, 1889, p. 273; July 13, p. 289; August 17, 1889, p. 372.
• Information on the 1889 L. J. Duchack's New London show is in Bandwagon, May-June, 1991, Vol. 35, No. 3, p. 40.
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Ducrow & Ashton - 1894 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1894
Notes from Ducrow & Ashton's Big Consolidated Shows. The shows are nearly ready for the road, and open at Orange, N.J., May 17(?), where the greatest activity prevails, redecorating the new animal cages, seven performers carriages and eleven wagons, and caring for the seventy head of horses and ring stock - mules, donkeys, ponies, monkeys and snakes. The recently arrived pet elephant "O'Donnell(?)," is a little under the weather, in consequence of a long sea voyage. This company will be one of the best equipped on the road, and will surpass all of the ordinary road shows, their ethnological groups reaching from every quarter of the globe. All of the company organized, so far, have reported for duty . . . Flora Aida . . . Eugene Manning, Florence Kent, Addie Gilman(?), besides the National Trio Acrobats, three in number. Wm.(?) North, the great bareback rider of Europe; Wooda Cooke, America's challenge rider; Mr. Watson's(?) troupe of trained dogs, riding goat and school of ponies; Prof. Goethe's(?) Brass Band. This big ten cent show will be under the direction of Jesse W. Foster . . . Wm. Ducrow will be manager, Frank Ashton in charge of tent in general. . . . New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 151.
Ducrow & Ashton's New Shows, open at Orange, N.J., Thursday, May 17. Wanted at once, circus performers, specially lady for menage act (amateur preferred, we furnish horse), lady for flying rings, etc., horizontal bar and brother act. Address Wm. Ducrow, manager, 107 4th Ave., N.Y. City. For sale, candy stand and side show (we have side show tent). New York Clipper, May 12, 1894, p. 157.
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Duke of Paducah - 1960 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1960
• In 1960, Whitey Ford, the Duke of Paducah, bought the Lewis Bros. circus and toured a tented circus for one season. Bandwagon, March-April, 1993, Vol. 37, No. 2, p. 36.
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Duggan Bros. - 1897
Notes from Duggan Bros.' World's Columbian Shows. We opened April 17 at Chicago, Illinois. Prof. Sidwell is our band master. Mlle. De Mae plays the mandolin in the concert . . . Newton Mack is in charge of the advance, Frank Mahony the canvas, Chas. Dodd the cookhouse, Jim White the sotck, Frenchy the lights, and Harry Taylor is ring master. Performers: the Jeromes, brother act; Harry Lampkin, principal and jockey rider; Louis Palamondo, slack wire . . . McPhesall and his trained dogs; Miss Scott, flying rings; Miss Rosedal, lady principal. The clowns are Miss Collins, Jim Smith, Charley Clark, Jim Ruthford and Albert Cook. The concert has the marions, Lulu Nickelson, Miss Clark, the Murray Sisters, Geo. White. The show goes out on the road May 31. New York Clipper, June 5, 1897, p. 219.
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Duggan Bros. - 1934 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1895-97, 1934
Duggan Bros. circus coming to Hammond, with trained animals, dancing and prancing horses and ponies, a bear that wrestles all comers, Milvo and Marceline, internationally famous funsters, and Mena, world's largest elephant. This is the newest of a string of Indiana circuses, offered in three rings and two stages. Headline acts are the Riding Loyals with Robert and her white steed, Romeo; Stout's Hollywood pony actors; Barnhold's bears; Davenport's lions; the Westlakes, aerialists, who perform without safety nets; the Terrance Troupe, aerial ballet; Les Bruntons, European comiques. Hammod Times (Hammond, IN), July 19, 1934, p. 8.
Duggan Brothers' three-ring circus will visit Ardmore [Texas] September 24. The circus comes here from Ada, and after will move to Waurika. The show is enroute to Texas cities and a tour of the South. It will terminate the 1934 season at Mr. Doroa, Florida, after showing the principal cities of the Sunshine state. The Duggan Bros.' circus will have covered 26 states with stops at more than a hundred big cities during the 1934 tour. The circus is owned and operated by William F. Duggan, well known oil man of Eldorado, Kansas.
Featured are the great Correil troupe of acrobats from the Argentine; the brothers Machedon, human catapaults of Spain; the London Loveland girls and Terrace sisters' flying ballet; Alexis, upside down man; Tarzana, flying trapeze; Jack Moore troupe, high wire; Mlle. Vera Vortex, tight wire; the Indian Westlakes, balancers and jugglers; the Walton troupe of gymnasts; the Flying Fanchons, the Riding Rosellis, Lees and Dales. The clown contingent his headed by Tom Hibbert, assisted by Danny Sullivan, Leo Byrnes, Ad Collyer, Bardo brothers, Don Adair, Schuyler Kent, Harry Silverlake and Les Boutons, who present the extravaganza, "The Land of Oz." Daily Ardmoreite (Ardmore, OK), September 17, 1934, p. 3; September 18, p. 3.
• W. F. Duggan, owner of the Duggan Bros. Circus and the Pan-American Animal Exhibit, died in January, 1951 at Moultrie, Georgia. Southern Sawdust, No. 83, May, 1975, p. 8.
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D. F. Dunham's - 1875
D. F. Dunham's company (not yet named), so far as engaged, includes John L. Davenport and family, clowns and equestrians; the Leopold Bros., gymnasts; Minnie Clifton, equestrienne; D. B. Gillam, scene rider; G. W. Chaffe, ascensionist; Stephens and Cardello, acrobats; A. M. Dildine, general agent; Thos Hodges, assistant manager; C. D. Clark has the sideshow and dollar store privileges. The candy privilege is not disposed of. Mr. Dunham will retain the concert, and will use sixteen wagons, about seventy people and sixty horses. New York Clipper, March 13, 1875, p. 399.
D. F. Dunham's Imperial European Circus. Proprietor and manager, D. F. Dunham; assistant manager, Thomas Hodges; press agent, Chas. Morton; programme agent, Wm. Hughes; treasurer, C. Fritcher; leader of band, Chas. Schawrtz, number of musicians 13; equestrian director, D. B. Gillam. John L. Davenport, clown. Riders: Miss Minnie Leopole, Orrin M. Hollis, D. B. Gillam. Leopold Brothers (John and Ed). [many names unreadable] New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, Supplement, p. 1.
The Leopold Brothers, aerial gymnasts and acrobats, who recently returned from St. Petersburg, Russia, have been engaged by D. F. Dunham for the coming tenting season. Miss Minnie Clifton has also been engaged. The Leopolds and Miss Clifton will return to St. Petersburg early in December next, to rejoin Ciniselli & Co.'s Circus. New York Clipper, April 3, 1875, p. 7.
D. F. Dunham's Imperial European Circus, the Sensation of 1875. Proprietor and manager, D. F. Dunham; assistant manager, Thomas Hodges; press agent, Chas. Morton; programme agent, Wm. Hughes; treasurer, C. Fritcher . . . Clowns, John L. Davenport and ___. Riders, Miss Ella Davenport, Miss Minnie Leopole, Millie, Caroline and Little Jennie(?), Orrin M. Hollis, D. Gillam, H. Brady. Gymnasts, acrobats, leapers and tumblers, Leopold Brothers (John and Ed) . . . Proprietor of concert, D. F. Dunham. Proprietor of sideshow, C. B. Clark. Winter quarters, Fostoria, O., at which place the first exhibition is to be given May 1. In the procession, Schwartz's Silver Cornet Band in golden chariot, followed by sixty ladies and gentlemen on horseback, dressed in costumes representing the four quarters of the globe (Europe, Asia, Africa and America). Balloon ascension daily at 1 o'clock p.m. Wire ascension to top of pavilion at 7 o'clock p.m. Will use four passenger wagons and ticket wagon; sideshow will have six wagons, making a total of twenty-four wagons and about one hundred horses, including those used by privilege men. About one hundred an twelve men all told, with big show and privileges. Sideshow uses two tents, one up-town and one on lot. Will give concerts in outside tent. New York Clipper, April 17, 1875, supplement, n.p.n.
John Leopold, the youngest of the Leopold Brothers, gymnasts and acrobats, who fell from the iron cradle to the arena while performing with the Imperial European Circus at Tiffin, Ohio, is so seriously injured that he has been compelled to retire from the business. Edward Leopold, who is now doing single acts, will take a partner, and in the fall they will go to St. Petersburg, Russia, to joine Ciniselli's Italian Circus for the winter. Titusville Herald (PA), June 28, 1875, n.p.n.
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Dutton's Circus - 1927, 1945 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1925-1933
1927: James Dutton and his wife, Nellie Jordan Dutton, proprietors of Dutton's Circus, will make its permanent quarters in Sarasota. . . . Sarasota Herald-Tribune (Sarasota, FL), April 5, 1927, p. 6.
1945: There is a little circus at the state fair park giving two shows a day absolutely free. The owner, manager, general director and star of the circus is Nellie Jordan Dutton. . . . Nellie and Jimmy were married and in 1914 decided they wanted to own their own circus. They started with a wagon show and played the South under the name "The Duttons' All-Star Attractions." Nellie had learned almost every act. She had become a rider, wire walker and acrobat, as well as a flier. Their circus played on, making two long world tours. In 1928 Jimmy Dutton died of a ruptured appendix. Nellie carried on with their show ever since. In 1933 Nellie took her circus to South Africa. Her acts were joined to the Pagel circus in Africa, and her circus played with Pagel's for nine years, in Africa, Australia and New Zealand. . . . Milwaukee Journal (Milwaukee, WI), August 10, 1945, n.p.n.
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Silas Dutton's - 1879, 1880
1879:
Wanted, attractions for show and concert. Also tumblers, leapers, male and female gymnasts, and a troupe of performing dogs. Candy stand and sideshow privileges for sale. John H. Trewolla, St. Louis, Mo. [Advertisement] New York Clipper, May 3, 1879, p. 48.
S. Dutton's Southern Circus, which started from Chicago, Ill., in May, 1879, and has been performing in the South during the past Winter, is expected to reach Marshall, Texas, May 1. The organization includes G. W. De Haven, manager; J. H. Trewolla, general agent; C. H. Lowry, equestrian director; J. McCarty, boss hostler; and J. Bradick, boss canvasman. Performers: Charles Orvill, P. H. Seamon, W. Sparks, W. Walcot, C. H. Lee, W. Ward, C. Dever, Dr. Newton, Miss Mayo, Mrs. Seamon, Mrs. Sparks, and Mrs. Dever. They have about ninety horses. New York Clipper, May 1, 1880, p. 43.
1880:
Owing to a change of weather, George W. DeHaven writes: "Dutton's Circus did not close their season and go into Winter quarters, as intended. They expect to be in Helena, Ark. about Jan. 24." The Rice Brothers, Clarence and Edmund, gymnasts and acrobats, now with Dutton's Southern Circus, can be engaged for the coming season. A brother act in which they do somersaults on shoulder, from back to shoulders, from pedestal to shoulders, and double somersault from the back to the ground, horizontal bar, tumbling, leaping and double somersaulting in leaps. New York Clipper, January 24, 1880, pp. 347, 351.
S. Dutton's Circus continues to travel in Mississippi, and is reported doing good business. New York Clipper, January 31, 1880, p. 355.
Billy Ward, trick clown and juggler, joined Dutton's Circus in Mississippi, recently. New York Clipper, February 28, 1880, p. 387.
The Silas Dutton Southern Circus, under the management of George W. De Haven, is now on a tour through the Southern States, playing in New Orleans this week; thence into Texas for the Summer circuit. They travel by wagon . . . P. H. Seamon is the clown, C. H. Lowry the hurdle rider is also with them. . . . New York Clipper, March 6, 1880.
Silas Dutton's Great Southern Circus, George W. De Haven, manager, is to be in Mobile, Ala., about March 18, and from there they intend going to Texas, where they are to exhibit most of the Summer. John Trewolla is in the advance. New York Clipper, March 20, 1880, p. 411.
Henderson, May 10. Dutton's circus gave two performances here. Two of the attaches became involved in a serious difficulty in which knives and shillelahs were freely used. Each of the combatants was hurt, one was arrested, the other made his escape. Galveston Daily News (Galveston, TX), May 11, 1880, p. 1.
S. Dutton's Great Southern Circus, G. W. DeHaven, manager, exhibits at Hope, Ark., June 10, Hot Springs 20. The show started out one year ago, and has been traveling through the South recently. P. H. Seamon is the clown. New York Clipper, June 12, 1880, p. 91.
S. Dutton's Southern Circus, now in Winter quarters in Aberdeen, Miss., is to start on a tour on or about March 1, 1881. New York Clipper, December 25, 1880, p. 315.
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Eagle Circus - 1848 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1848
• Organized in Cincinnati in September, 1848, by Sol J. Lipman, clown, and Burnell Runnells, rider. Show had James Buckley, rider, and John Harpier, clown. Disbanded January 14, 1849. Thayer's Annals of the American Circus.
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Eagles' Indoor Circus - 1923
At East Liverpool, Ohio. Billboard, May 5, 1923.
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Earl's - 1920-21
1920:
Earl Johnson, who retired from the show business in 1915 [1916?], will take out a first-class wagon show in the spring. The show will be known as Earl's Greater European Shows and will open either in Virginia or North Carolina. It is the intention of Mr. Johnson to have one of the finest and best equipped wagon shows on the road. The big top will be a 70, with two 30-foot middles; the side-show a 40, with two 30-foot middles. Nine wagons are to be used, with two in advance. Billboard, January 17, 1920, p. 58.
Wanted quick for overland circus. Wagon show people in all branches, ground act, comedy acts, clown that can sing, sketch team for concert, man and wife that can put on side show. Musicians, trap drummer, trombone, cornet and baritone. Boss canvasman, boss hostler, cook. Candy butchers. Eat and sleep on lot. Earl R. Johnson, Greater Overland Circus, Morgantown, West Virginia. [Advertisement] Billboard, June 12, 1920, p. 89.
Wanted quick for small overland circus. Agent that will post. Useful wagon show people. Performers, musicians, camp cook. Working men in all departments. Earl R. Johnson, Hooverville, Pa. [Advertisement] Billboard, July 31, 1920, p. 117.
1921: Wanted useful circus people. Performers doing 2 or more acts and doubling in concert preferred. Slack wire, sing and double trapeze, swinging ladder, juggling, contortionists, talking clowns and other act. Band leader. Musicians on all instruments. Boss canvasman. Agent that can contract and who can post. 1 billposter. Sleep in hotles, eat on lot. Opens Saturday, May 28, Clay City, Ky. Address Earl R. Johnson, 107 Church St., Lexington, Ky. [Advertisement] Billboard, May 14, 1921, p. 109.
• Note: This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Early American Circus
• Show was out in 1973-77, Jerry Booker, owner.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, circa 1977, Jerry Booker, owner.
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Eckhart & Williams - 1890
Fred Lyman, cornetist, writes the following, dated at Nevada, Ia., Sept. 4: "Clarence G. Eckhart, formerly a performer with one of the Kickapoo Indian Medicine Cos., in partnership with C. R. Williams, organized a small circus early last August. Business at first was rather discouraging, but the last two weeks it had been good, playing to packed houses at almost every stand. All the people who remained with the show had not received a cent of salary from the time of opening, and on Thursday, Sept. 4, the day when everybody expected to be paid, and all financial affairs were to be balanced up, manager Eckhart decreed otherwise, and left for parts unknown, taking with him all the earnings of the show, a hundred dollars or more. He was accompanied by H. E. Mitchell, a song and dance performer, and Mead Satterlee, an amateur. Manager Eckhart left a not to the effect that it would be no use to look for him, as by the time they read it both himself and the boys would be many miles away. The tent and fixtures were left at Nevada, but he had placed a mortgage upon it, and we could not help ourselves that way. Mr. Williams, his partner, is in as bad a fix as the rest of us - he is to day, penniless and destitute." New York Clipper, October 4, 1890, 468.
Clarence G. Eckhart denies that any ___ was due his people when the Eckhart & Williams Circus closed at Nevada, Ia. Mr. Eckhart writes: "I have receipts in full from all the people engaged with the show." New York Clipper, October 18, 1890, 503.
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Eddy Bros. - 1894
Notes from the Eddy Bros.' Show. The company are working under an 80(?)ft. round top. Roster: Harry McDonald and Charles Ogden, proprietors and managers; Robert Roper, master of transportation; Harry Bell, John Teets, Mrs. Rachel McDonald, the Teets Brothers, Prof. Wombold and his troupe of educated dogs and ponies; Prof. Rosselli's(?) band of eight pieces; Jim Boyd, boss canvas man with five assistants . . . and Pete France, in charge of cook tent. New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 817.
Wanted, people in all lines of circus business, doing two or more acts, except riders. . . . Long season. Side show privilege to let, wages or percentage. Address Eddy Bros.' show . . . New York Clipper, February 24, 1894, p. 825.
Wanted, for Eddy Bros.' New Inter-Ocean Shows, musicians and performers in all lines of circus business except riders. Show ??? North this summer. Side show and other privileges to let. . . . Eddy Bros. Show. New York Clipper, April 28, 1894, p. 124.
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Eddy Bros. Three Ring Circus - 1937-38 (title for Hunt Bros. 1936-1939); show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1936-39
1937: Show had an air-conditioned tent. Billboard, June 19, 1937, p. 38. Show played New Hampshire. Billboard, August 28, 1937, p. 76.
1938: Kingston friends of Charles T. Hunt, will be pleased to meet this veteran showman, native Kingstonian, when he appears here with Eddy Bros. Circus on August 1. They will remember him as the proprietor of Hunt's Circus, which according to Mr. Hunt was "born at the corner of North Front street and Washington avenue," and which started out as a dog and pony show. Last year the Hunt circus was taken over and the old name disappeared from the headlines. Eddy Bros., by the way, are Mr. Hunt's three sons Charles, Harry and Eddy Hunt, so it's still "all in the family." The show recently spent some weeks in the Adirondack country and the Plattsburgh Daily Press in an editorial said that Mr. Hunt is probably the oldest manager to be in continuous control of a circus organisation for more than 40 years. Mr. Hunt says that his show is a "pocket edition of the Rlngling show." The advertising stresses the air-conditioning apparatus carried and three rings full of attractions. They will show at the Athletic Field. Kingston Daily Freeman (Kingston, NY), July 29, 1938, p. 3.
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Edmond's Windsor Castle Menagerie - 1886
Louis Bastow, advance agent, announcement of his death. New York Clipper, May 8, 1886, p. 123.
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Prof. Edmond's Pavilion Shows - 1889 Prof. Edmond's 2 Big Fair Ground Shows
Advertisement - wanted, freaks, illusions or mechanical wonders. Closed a successful season at Barre, Canada on August 21. New York Clipper, August 31, 1889, p. 415; September 7, 1889, p. 427.
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Edmonds & Shaw's Pavilion - 1885, 1888 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1885-88
Harry Stanwood and Bertie McFadden joined Edmonds & Shaw's Pavilion Show last week. New York Clipper, August 8, 1885, p. 328.
Engaged steamer "Fairy" for a tour of the Northern lakes. Harry Woods joined. New York Clipper, August 8, 1885, p. 328; August 11, 1888, p. 427.
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Edmond, Hammer & McDonald's Co. - 1888 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888
Mentioned in New York Clipper, October 27, 1888, p. 524.
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G. N. Eldred's - 1857-59
• Sometimes mis-spelled Eldridge.
1857:
Thirty of the cadets of the Georgia Military Insitute have been expelled for going into G. N. Eldred's circus show. Baraboo Republic (WI), July 2, 1857, n.p.n.
1858:
The London (Ohio) Democrat gives the following description of the blowning down of the tent of Eldredge's Circus and Menagerie at that place on Friday night last: The performance commenced as usual, but had not proceeded far when a sudden gust of wind ripped on side of the canvas; this was quickly followed by another, which lifted the pavilion, tearing it from its stays, when it suddenly settled down on the heads of the devoted few like the broad wings of a huge bird while the centre-pole fell with a crash to the ground. The crowd tumbled headlong off the seats and rushed pell mell out into "The pitiless pelting of the storm" - the women shrieked, the men swore, the clowns chattered, while at ever occasional boom of the thunder, the lightning would reveal a glimpse of the wreck - hatless heads, inverted umbrellas, crushed crinoline, dragled skirts and muddied coats, &c., all jumbled together in one heterogenuous mass. To add to the already "confusion worse confounded," the cry was raised that one of the wagons was upset and the lions had broken loose! This, however, proved a false alarm, as all the animals remained secure, save the elephant, who, with the accustomed good sense for which that animal is noted, broke from his moorings and sought shelter nearby. Aside from damaged clothing, lost hats, broken umbrellas, ruffled tempers, nothing serious occurred. A demonstration toward upsetting the ticket wagon was made by certain persons present, but the timely interference of the proprietor prevented the accomplishing of what might have resulted in a serious disturbance. Kenosha Times (WI), June 3, 1858, n.p.n.
• 1858: online at:
Clipper, April 10, Clipper, June 26, Clipper, July 31 (scroll down)
Clipper, December 4 (scroll down)
1859:
We have been requested by Mr. Pell, the advertising agent of Eldred's Circus and Managerie, to state that in consequence of his inability to procure a steamboat to convey his troupe to this city, that the company will not exhibit in Galveston until tomorrow. Civilian and Gazette Weekly (Galveston, TX), February 22, 1859, n.p.n.
• 1859: online at:
Clipper, May 14, Clipper, May 21, Clipper, June 11 (scroll down)
Clipper, July 2, Clipper, July 30, Clipper, September 24 (scroll down)
Clipper, October 22 (scroll down)
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Eldridge & Barton
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America and Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1927. Parkinson lists Art Eldridge, proprietor.
Eldridge & Bentum
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America and Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1928. Parkinson lists Art Eldridge, proprietor.
Eldridge & Condon One Ring Circus - 1920 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses and Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, 1920. Parkinson lists Art Eldridge, proprietor.
• Eldridge & Condon is mentioned in Billboard, July 10, 1920, p. 54.
Eldridge & Embree
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America and Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1915. Parkinson lists Art Eldridge, proprietor.
Eldridge & Engle
• Show listed in Chindahl's History of the Circus in America and Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1921. Parkinson lists Art Eldridge, proprietor.
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Ellet Bros. - 1896
Roster of Ellet Bros.' Show. Ellet Bros., owners and managers; Wm. Edwards, boss canvasman with six assistants; Henry Gormley, cook tent . . . Ellet and Rickson, Chas. Pike, Ed Snyder, Chas. Ellet, Capt. Jack Osborn and family. We travel by rail. We have been showing the past four weeks in Southern Michigan, but ship to Memphis, Tennessee, September 20(?). Chas. Ellet has recovered from his fall from the bar. . . . New York Clipper, September 19, 1895, p. 457.
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Elliott's Pavilion Show - 1888-89 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1888
1888: Earl Family (Hazel, Maud, Zetta, Baby Earl), trapeze, contortion, triple song and dance. 1889: Poor business at Little Rock, Arkansas. New York Clipper, October 13, 1888, p. 500; April 6, 1889, p. 53.
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Elliott & Silbon Co. - 1884 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1884
Prof. E. Abt, former stereoptican agent of Forepaugh, will join this show. New York Clipper, October 18, 1884, p. 486.
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Ellis Bros.' Shows - 1923 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1923
Owners J. W. Ellis and James J. Lamb planning show for 1923. Opened at Lima, Ohio (J. W. Ellis). Billboard, October 21, 1922, p. 72; February 24, 1923, p. 84.
J. W. Ellis informs that he has entered into a partnership with James J. Lamb, old-time circus performer, to put out Ellis Bros.' Shows, a twelve-to-fifteen wagon organization, horse drawn, season of 1923. Three of the wagons are completed, and ten head of stock are in winter quarters at Foraker, O. The big show top will be a fifty with a thirty foot middle piece. No sideshow will be carried, but there will be on up-town wagonin which "Billy," the live sheep with two complete separate bodies and six legs fully formed. Artist Stover of Lima, O., has completed a pictorial banner front for same. Advance work will be done by auto. A special dining car will be carried and all people, including working men, will have living quarters in wagons. Prior to opening next April the management will put on some indoor circuses. Jim Lamb will be in charge of winter quarters. Billboard, October 21, 1922, p. 72.
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Cirque Eloize - 1997
In 1997 the show played college campuses and other venues at least in the East and Midwest. Bandwagon, March-April, 1998, p. 15.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1995-.
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Elroy & Drake - 1904 Great Eastern Circus
Elizabeth, New Jersey. The Great Eastern Circus, (Edwin Elroy & W. Drake, owners, and James Duchemin, general director). May 18-21, came to excellent business. The tent was filled at each performance. The side shows were well patronized, and the concerts witnessed by nearly half of the audiences present at each performance. The circus was organized in Elizabeth by Messrs Elroy, Drake and Duchemin. Its programme was made longer by the introduction of amateur talent for the benefit of a new hospital to be conducted by the Sisters. The professional talent was: George Barnard, acrobat; "Jack" Elmo, English clown; Ernest Dale and Charles Hopper, clowns, with Frank Wilson, the Two Carriers, Charles Valentine, on the bounding rope; T. Carman and trained stallions, Sig. Gonzales' riding mule, the Three Frasers, acrobats; Ray Kanayman(?), slack wire; Lulu and traine dhorse, "Topsy." A uniformed band of ten pieces renders a concert in front of the tents at each performance. The aggregation carries sixty-five people, and three cars are used. Peter Walker is head chandelier man. Thre new horse acts are being rehearsed, and a child wonder, in trapeze work, is being prepared. New York Clipper, June 4, 1904, p. 345(?).
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Elstun Bros.' - 1905-06, 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1904-1910
1905: Our correspondent from Emporia, Kan., writes: A little trained animal exhibition that has recently opened in the central part of the country is the Elstun Bros. Dog and Pony Show. The show is owned and entirely managed by C. W. Elstun and his sons, Frank, Gene and C. W. Elstun, jr. The show opened in Kansas City, Kan., and is now in Kansas. A feature is the disrobing horse, Senator, who disrobes, says his prayers and retires in a bed, placing the covers, etc., all alone. Prof. Brown and his goats also get applause. Billboard, June 17, 1905, p. 17.
1906: The Elstun Brothers' United Shows open at Kansas City, Kan., April 18, exhibiting there three days at Union Place in the heart of the city, under the auspices of the Children's Home. The Elstun Brothers are residents of Kansas City and the show winters at Midland Park. The organisation consists of trained animals, dogs, ponies, goats and monkeys, gymnastic and aerial acts and a select concert band under the direction of Prof. Howard. Senator, the disrobing horse featured by the Barnum & Bailey Show upon its European tour, will be featured with this show. The organisation will travel by wagons. General Agent Miles Berry is busy looking after the interests of the show. Billboard, April 14, 1906, p. 32.
1909: Elstun Bros.' United Shows: Elstun Bros., proprietors; C. D. Elstun, manager; C. W. Elstun, general agent; F. R. Elstun, local contractor; B. S. Benson, press agent; D. A. Reed, manager side show; F. R. Elstun, treasurer; C. D. Elstun, equestrian director; E. W. Elstun, supt. of transportation; Claude Ware, supt. of canvas; M. Brennan, supt. of animals; F. R. Elstun Jr., supt. of privileges; Dady Doyle, supt. of stock. Billboard, March 20, 1909, p. 78.
• The Elstun Bros. show was owned by C. W. Elstun and his sons C. W. Jr., Gene and Frank. It was framed in the winter of 1904 and was out every year until 1909. It did go out in 1909 and 1910 under different ownership. Bandwagon, May-June, 2004, Vol. 48, No. 3, pp. 11-12.
• According to Chindahl's History of the Circus in America, the show was sold to S. M. Beggs during the 1908 season. In 1910 it was renamed the Great Eastern and sold to J. H. Eschman.
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Elton Bros.' Circus - 1900 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1900
Opened at Smithfield, Pennsylvania, May 1. Billboard, May 1, 1900, p. 6.
Elton Bros. 20c Shows. Advance: Wagon No. 1: H. O. Cunningham, agent; Callen, bill poster; Moore, lithographer. Wagon No. 2: Joe McCleary and Chas. Mitchell, bill posters, programmers and heralds. Billboard, May 1, 1900.
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Ely's - 1900, 1905-07, 1913-14 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1900-1914
1900: We opened our season at Metropolis City, Ill., April 7, and have been playing to packed houses, with the exception of May 25, when we had a blow-down at Momcake, Ill. We had to close the doors at 7:30, every available foot of space having been taken. Our roster is as follows: G. S. Ely, sole proprietor and manager; Mrs. K. D. Ely, treasurer; performers in big show, Mrs. Effie Ely, Geo. Loranzo, J. Sauer, Mrs. Bessie Scott, Marreta Sisters and Frank Myers. Our band consists of eight pieces with Walter Scott, leader. W. Mitchell, J. Sauer, T. Robbins, F. Gilius(?), Bessie Scott, J. Barnes, W. Jones. Red Turner has carge of canvas with six assistants. Chas Fuller, hostler, with two assistants. . . . Billboard, June 30, 1900, p. 5.
1905:
Roster of George S. Ely United Shows and Trained Animal Exhibition: Geo. S. Ely, sole proprietor and manager; Mrs. K. S. Ely, treasurer in charge of ticket wagon; Lee Howard, equestrian director; Howard Family; Gertie DeMent, flying trapeze; Sophia Howard, flying rings; Wilbur Brothers, horizontal bar; Miss Mae Wealty in Roman standing races and menage act; Prof. Grace and his school of dogs, ponies and goats; the Hamburg Brothers, acrobats and gymnasts, and Professor Zadell and his four performing steers. Blacky Jones is boss canvasman with twelve assistants; Ben Swift is boss hostler with eighteen assistants; and Prof. Rau has chage of the band with eight pieces. Billboard, April 15, 1905, p. 20.
Notes from the Geo. S. Ely Circus. Since our opening, April 22, we have toured Kentucky, Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Indian Territory. We are now in Texas, where we will remain all winter. We carry fourteen wagons and forty head of stock. "Blacky" Grace has charge of the canvas with ten assistants. Roster: Ely's educated bulls, goats, horses and mules. Vic Priplte, principal singer and talking clown; Mme. Triplet, contortion and slack wire; Wm. Mitchell, comedian; Scott Ruth, clown and trapeze; Wm. Hurly, bandmaster. Billboard, December 30, 1905, p. 16.
1906:
Geo. E. Ely Circus has gone into winter quarters at Meridan, Texas. Billboard, February 10, 1906, p. 21.
1907: Roster of Geo. S. Ely Circus: Geo. S. Ely, proprietor and manager; Madam Ely, magic; Herbert L. Harris and Mons. Hugo, aerialists; William Mitchell, singing and talking clown; the Weider Family, Wheeler and Shapsteen, concert feature; C. F. (Doc) Zeigler, sideshow manager, and Prof. James Loveridge and his band of nine pieces. The show has been out all winter. Billboard, May 18, 1906, p. 39.
1913: George S. Ely's Circus is in its twenty-second week. The show will remain out all winter. The show carries thirty head of stock, ten wagons, 80 foot round top, fourteen lengths of seats and twenty-eight people. Richard Honzelka's cornet band of seven solo musicians is the big feature. Roster: George S. Ely, manager; K. S. Ely, treasurer; Joseph Jackson, in charge of canvas with six assistants; Carl, in charge of stock with four assistants; Luther, props; Charley Ban, cook; Steve Jet, in charge of lights. Performers: Madam Rosa, magician; Lulu Fregi, snake enchantress; Nellie Spencer, soubret; Mons Higo, wire and traps; Thomas J. Connelly, producing clown; William Mitchell, monolog and concert, and George S. Ely's January act and trained horses. Billboard, November 29, 1913, p. 122.
1914:
Geo. S. Ely's Circus. K. S. Ely, proprietor and treasurer; Geo. S. Ely, manager & supt. ring stock; Albert Gaston, asst. manager; A. G. Courtney, general agent & press agent; T. J. Connelly, equestrian director; Julio Hinojoss(?), musical director; Chas. Cummins, supt. canvas; E. M. Scarborough, boss hostler & supt. stock; Henry Low, Supt. commissary dept. Billboard, March 28, 1914, p. 48.
Geo. S. Ely Show has been out for eighteen months. The show will remain out all winter, but close for six weeks in February and March to paint up. Arkansas and Missouri will be invaded in 1915. Prof. Julo Hinojosa, with his Spanish band is a feature. Harold Dean is a late arrival. W. T. Daniels has charge of the top with four assistants. The show has ten wagons, thirty head of stock, and an eighty foot round top. Billboard, December 5, 1914, p. 22.
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Fred Elzor Circus - 1912-13, 1916 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1912-16
1912:
The Fred Elzor Show is still touring Georgia. Among the late arrivals on the show are Arthur Benson and Frazer Clark. Walter Allen has a ten-piece band with the following musicians: Walter Allen, Lee Hall, Fred Spencer, C. E. Tuttle, Harry Chapman, Walter Holback, Jact Settrick, Howard Ramsdall, George Porter and Ribble Linkons. The show will stay out all winter in Florida. Lee Smith is handling the mail and billboards. A shipment of twelve head of draft horses, with a new cage for the menagerie arrived recently. The show is in its thirty-second week, and has only lost four days.
1916:
Fred Elzor Combination (Wagon) Show. Fred Elzor, manager; Rube Miller, general agent; H. A. Taylor, manager sideshow; H. L. Ramsdell, equestrian director; Carl Rosen, general supt.; R. H. LaVern, musical director; Clyde Rhoades, boss hostler; Del Reno, blacksmith. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
The Elzor Show is now in the 17th week of its summer tour. The first six weeks was a struggle through muddy roads, and much rain, but the season has been profitable. Two teams of mules and three teams of horses has been added to the show, in addition to several ponies and two donkeys. With the show are Howard Ramsdell, traps and rolling globe; Percy Rhoades, hand balancing and slide for life; Miss June, contortionist; Lavern and Roberts, acrobats; Al Mondsello, wire and juggling; Marie Lotta, rings and perch; Capt. Snider's dogs; Bogart's ponies. Walter Miller has charge of the stock and Herman Eagler the canvas. Billboard, August 26, 1916, p. 22.
. . . Fred Elzor, our showman, just in from a successful season with his circus, opened yesterday morning the first mule and jackass auction ever held in Garland. . . . Warren Evening Times (Warren, PA), September 20, 1916, 4.
• Fred Carter Bogart, 76, resident of Warren-Jamestown Road, who gained fame in the amusement world as a vaudeville performer and owner of "The Fred Elzor Circus," died Tuesday after a long illness. Billed under the name of Fred Elzor, Mr. Bogart launched his career in the amusement world as a contortionist and balancer. At one time he played 31 straight weeks in a New York theater. Over forty years ago when the present Columbia theater was erected by the late J. D. Woodard, and featured vaudeville acts along with silent movies and illustrated songs, Mr. Bogart was one of the
early managers of what was then called The Woodard theater. Later he embarked into the amusement business as owner of The Fred Elzor Shows which became known as the leading wagon circus on the road, playing from one end of the country to the other. For 25 years, until his retirement, he had been a valued employe of Warren State Hospital as an attendant. Mr. Bogart was born in Wilkes-Barre, October 24, 1875, but had resided in Warren county for the past 47 years. He is survived by his wife, Winifred R.; a son Robert L., and daughter Mrs. June Wedlock, all residents of Warren-Jamestown road; three grandchildren and a sister, Mrs. Lettle McCann, Breingsville. Interment in Pine Grove cemetery. Warren Times-Mirror (Warren, PA), April 23, 1952, p. 1.
• See Bannerline, February 15, 1961, pp. 2-7.
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Engford Family Show Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, circa 1921-1935
• The Engford Family Show, out of Plover, Wisconsin, was a motorized circus, owned by Robert Engford. The show toured from 1920-26. Bandwagon, January-February, 1988, Vol. 32, No. 1, pp. 20.
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Engle Bros.
There will be no Engle Bros.' Overland Circus on the road this year; in fact, not until the war has ended. L. W. Smith, one of the owners of the show, enlisted in the army last July. Manager R. R. Engle finished the season at Terre Haute, Ind., and as soon as the show was in winter quarters at Bridgeton, Ind., all the stock was sold. Last January Mr. Engle enlisted in the Coast Artillery. Al told, eight troupers from this little show are now in the service and everyone enlisted. C. W. Wortsbaugh, band leader, who has been with the Engle outfit since 1907, is spending the summer in Indianapolis. The Cole Sisters, one of the acts carried, will not go out until fall. Billboard, June 15, 1918, p. 26.
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Engles & Eldridge Circus - 1921
• 1921: see Billboard, March 14, 1921, p. 65; June 11, 1921, p. 128; June 25, 1921, p. 66.
• 1925: Al Porter and Lew Engles, late of this show, plan a ten car carnival. New York Clipper, January 21, 1925, p. 89.
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Enos & Parker - 1918
The Enos & Parker Show is the title of a new troupe recently organized by Rue Enos and Mr. Parker, both of whom were with the Cole Bros.' Circus last season. The show inaugurated its tour at Mansfield, La., January 10, and has lost only two days since. It is transported by an automobile truck, and is headed for California, where another truck will be added. The show plays anything from town halls up. On account of bad roads, Leesville, La., was cancelled. The troupe eats and sleeps in hotels, but as soon as the weather moderates, will carry a cookhouse. The show left Louisiana January 23 and entered Texas. Billboard, February 2, 1918, p. 30.
Enos & Parker Show played a two days' engagement at Goose Creek, Tex., and the oil town proved the best stand the show has made thus far. Rue Enos and his partner, Parker, were in Houston, Tex., and bought a motorcycle for the advance. The show continues on its tour thru Texas, playing town halls and school houses and is managing to get a little jack here and there. The show played day and date with Miller Bros.' Wild West Amusement Company at Orange, Tex., and did very good. At Sourlake it played day and date with John G. Miller's Show. The show travels on an auto truck. In the Spring the show will be placed under canvas. Billboard, February 23, 1918, p. 29.
The Enos & Parker Show continues on its tour in Texas. The show laid off in San Antonio, Tex., March 2 and 3, during which a trailer was built for the truck for sleeping quarters. Route: Enos & Parker Shows: Eden, Tex. 13; Vigo 14; Eola 15; San Angelo 16; Water Valley 17; Broome 18; Sterling 19; Iolanthe 20; Big Springs 21. Billboard, March 16, 1918, pp. 28, 50.
Rue Enos and his partner, Mr. Parker, organizers of the Enos & Parker Show, have canceled all of their dates until is is found out if Mr. Parker, who is in Class A1, is drafted. They have been in San Antonio, Tex., since March 2, playing their show the week of March 4 in conjunction with Don Carlos' Dog and Monkey Show at Camp Kelly Aviation Field, and the week of March 11 at the Happy Hour Theater at Camp Travis. Last week they were booked at the Travis Theater at Camp Travis in conjuction with Mr. Lewis' tab show. In case Mr. Parker is drafted Enos says he doesn't know what his plans will be, but more than likely he will be back with some white top in clown alley. Billboard, March 30, 1918, p. 28.
Rue Enos, performer, and Laura Schaak, performer, both late of the Frisco Exposition Shows, were married recently at Weatherford, Tex. The show which Rue and his partner, Parker, had been operating is now a thing of the past. Rue failed to pass the draft examination on account of a broken foot, but Parker went thru all right. Billboard, April 20, 1918, pp. 26, 29.
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Circo Ecuestre - 1889 (Spain)
Circo Ecuestre De Barcelona, Spain, opened for their eleventh annual season May 4. The roster: G. Y. Alegria, proprietor and manager; H. W. Cottreliy(?), ring master; Mr. Allen and wife, Miss Rochez, Mr. Rochez, Miss Whitely, Mlle Zulmer and Mr. Whitely, riders; the Paul Pierre and Bugnetta Troupe; the Borgheity Bros., Cides Achmed, Hady Larby and Housein (Arabs), acrobats; Flexmore, Mendoza, Sapmpani, clowns; Miss Karmar and the Guietteo Sisters, aerial acts; and Miss Dora, Japanese act. J. H. Ligon, well known in New York, is in Barcelona. New York Clipper, June 8, 1889, p. 207.
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Erb's - 1892
1891 Wanted, for Erb's New Sensation Wagon Show, circus people of all kinds, except riders. Sideshow and other privileges for sale. Show opens May 1, 1892. Would like to hear from a reliable advance agent. Address R.(?) T.(?) Gilham(?), assistant manager, Philipsburg(?), Centre County, Pa. New York Clipper, December 12, 1891, p. 674.
1892:
Notes from Erb's New Sensation. The show will open at Phillipsburg, Pa., April 2?, and will go on the road with an entire new outfit - new wagons, tents and all other paraphernalia. A number of people who have signed have already reported, and preparations are going on all the time. Everything will be in readiness for rehearsal in short time. The following people signed: Prof. Wm. Andre, aeronaut . . . Charles Richter, balancing trapeze . . . Erghardt Bros., slack wire and perch pole; and Prof. Gilham's Juvenile brass band, ten in number. T. W. Vinson and W. S. Erb will have charge of the side show. John Erb is sole proprietor and manager. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 82.
Call. People engaged for Erb's New Sensation Shows report at Philipsburg, Centre County, Pa., April ??. Would like to hear from people who can double in concert, male and female; also a Punch man who does magic. Address John Erb, Philipsburg, Centre County, Pa. New York Clipper, April 16, 1892, p. 95.
Wanted, for Erb's New Sensation Show, circus people in all branches, except riding. Would like to hear from a lady that does turn in big show and doubles in concert show. Travel by wagon, stop in hotel, Address John Erb, Madora(?), Pa., May 4 . . . Ansonville 6 . . . New York Clipper, May 7, 1892, p. 143.
Erbs' New Sensation Shows has been on the road since April ??, and, despite lots of rain, business has been good. The roster: John Erbs, sole proprietor and manager; Frank Leopold, director of amusements; J. F. Showers, announcer; Zoliers, Litz and Ceno, Grant Williams, Charley Hunter, Fred Slaughter, Vini(?) Komiskey and Prof. Dick Gilham's Juvenile Band. New York Clipper, May 21, 1892, p. 162.
Scribner & Smith's report. The Erb Show stranded within six miles of us June 4(?). Our superintendent, Jack Kent, went on to see them, and came back with ten horses, four wagons, several sets of harness, etc. New York Clipper, June 18, 1892, p. 228.
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Eroni Bros. Circus and Menagerie (Australia) - 1900
Eroni Bros. Circus and Menagerie in Australia has 180 head of horses and twelve cages of animals. J. O. Donnell, manager of the Chicago Jewelry Company, has acquired a half interest in the organization, and intends to use American printing, agents and bill posters if he can get them. His address is 50 Queen Victoria Martkets, Sydney, N. S. W., Australia. Billboard, Aaugust 11, 1900, p. 5.
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Erwood's - 1892-93
1892: Erwood's New Consolidated Shows report good business. The ring is under the direction of Walter Romalo(?), and everything runs smoothly. Five musicians have been added to the band. Following is a list of the company: R. J. Erwood, sole proprietor and manager; Geo. L. Bowers in advance, with four assistants; Walter Romalo(?), ringmaster; the Galena Family, the Romalo Bros., William La Crawford . . . Mons. Gorman . . . and a band of ten pieces. The show will travel entirely by wagons for the remainder of the season. New York Clipper, September 17, 1892, p. 438.
1893:
From R. J. Erwood's United Shows. Our season opened at New Philadelphia, O., May 30. The roster: R. J. Erwood, proprietor and manager; G. L. Bowers, treasurer; Sig. Cannon and Mme. Maude, Chris. Meyer, Chas. A. Blanchell(?) . . . Mons. Geller . . . Mattie King, W. Crawford . . . Warde and Erwood, Little Baby Erwood . . . Red Martin, Prof. Martin and wife's troupe of trained ponies and dogs, Prof. Kellman's band of twelve pieces, Dr. McKinzie, candy privilege, and Albert Kirkam(?), boss canvas man. New York Clipper, June 17, 1893, p. 230.
Wanted, quick, 1 band leader, 1 orchestra leader. Must both have music. 1 boss canvas man and men to work on canvas and seats and properties. Write or wire, Ulrichsville, Ohio, July 4, New Cumberland, Ohio July ?, Del Roy, Ohio, July 6. Address R. J. Erwood, Erwood's Circus. Can use alto player and other musicians. New York Clipper, June 24, 1893, p. 260.
C. S. Carleton has resigned as general agent of Erwood's Circus to take charge of the tour of Prof. Martin's troupe of educated dogs and ponies. New York Clipper, July 8, 1893, p. 280.
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Escalante Bros. - 1918, 1919, 1920-21 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1903-1938, 1943-45
1918:
Winter quarters, Escalante Bros. Show, Marino Escalante, manager; Santa Ana, Cal. Billboard, November 2, 1918, p. 45.
Escalante Bros.' one-ring circus closed the season at Santa Anna, Cal., October 25. The show will winter in that city. Billboard, November 9, 1918, p. 32.
1919:
The Escalante Bros. Show (Mexican circus). In Brawley, Cal., the show turned people away two days. In Calexico, Cal., packed houses for three days. The show is now in Mexicali, Mexico, having passports for two weeks. The roster: Mariano, Pedro and Marcus Escalante, owners and directors; Senor Oliva, horizontal bars, tumbling, jumping and pantomimes; Pedro Escalante, rings, bars, trained horses, bears, etc.; Senorita Aurora Escalante, trapeze, tumbling, juggling, singing, dancing; Marcus Escalante, producing clown and dancer; Senor and Senora Lorenzo Azcone, singers, dancers,sketches, delineators; the Escalante Juveniles (Filomeno, Eduardo, Angelita, Ampaio, Manual, Charlotta, Francisco), trapeze, bars, rings, hand balancing, tumblers, contorionists, singers and dancers, casting acts, double traps, etc.; Senor Alezandro Acevedo, tight and slack wire, trapeze balancing, etc; Senor and Senora Marcias, wire artists, jumpers, tumblers, jugglers, etc.; Senor Andres ___, heavyweight balancing, strong act and fire king; Senorita Charlotta Garcia, contortionist, tumbler, singking, balancing trapeze; Senora Rita Oliva, trapeze balancing, singing and dancing; Senor ___, band leader with band and orchestra of twenty pieces; Senora Luce Escalante, tickets; Alezandro Acevedo, lunitor; Jose Garcia, blues; Mrs. May Escalante, concessions; Senora Catalina Escalante, ticket taker; Lee Teller (magic, escapes, hypnotism), doing advance. The show travels in four cars and carries forty-eight people. Billboard, April 19, 1919, p. 34.
The Escalante Bros. Mexican Circus is playing Los Angeles lots for three weeks. They have just installed a new 100 foot round top with a forty foot middle piece. The show is framed with one ring and an elevated stage in one end. Two rows of reserved chairs surround the ring, while one side of the top is occupied by star back reserves and the other with "blues" for general admission. There are about seventy people carried by the show. Billboard, May 24, 1919, p. 84.
Business with the Escalante Bros. Shows in California has been good. We are glad to have return to the fold Charles Cordena, our chef. July 26 we celebrated Mr. Mariana Escalante's birthday, who will be thirty-nine on his next birthday. He is the senior member of the firm. - Lee Teller. Billboard, August 16, 1919, p. 46.
• More on the 1919 Escalante show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
• Show was in California in 1919. Spent Fall of 1920 in Mexico.
1921:
Lee Teller, of Escalante Bros.' Show, writes from Colton, Cal., that he has returned from Mexico and Arizona, and that business across the line as far as Mazattan was just fair. Conditions are none too good for shows, he says. Money is scarce and the national currency only one-half value of this country. In Nogales the advance men of the Howe show were welcome visitors. The Escalante troupers visited the Howe show at Yuma. In Coachella, the Escalante show ran into a wind storm, with a ninety-mile gale and the sun invisible for three days on account of the sand. Teller says that he met "Doc" Cole, better known to oldtimers as King Cole, minstrel man, banjoist, lecturer, etc., and the show played in his theaters at Coachella and Indio, Cal. Doc also has interests in other theaters and books all good acts, companies, etc. that may pass that way. Mesa, Ariz., according to Teller, has put a ban on all kinds of tented shows. The authorities tell one frankly that the town is on a hard times basis and that no licenses are issued. Billboard, April 30, 1921, p. 51.
• 1919-1921: See Billboard, October 25, 1919, p. 48; February 7, 1920, p. 60; October 23, 1920, pp. 60, 61; January 1, 1921, p. 56; January 8, 1921, p. 56.
• Article on the history of the Escalante circus is online in Bandwagon, Jan-Feb 1961 (scroll down or use find).
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Escalante Son's One Ring Mexican Circus - 1926
In the Los Angeles area in 1936. White Tops, Jan-Feb, 1972, p. 17.
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J. H. Eschman's - 1911, 1913, 1917-18 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1910-17
1911: The J. H. Eschman European Circus opened its second season near its present winterquarters at Minneapolis, Minn., May 12, and after a season of twenty-three weeks is again tucked away in its permanent home for the winter. John Kelley, veteran showman, will again be in charge of the winterquarters. The following officers, performers and acts that opened with the show were with it when the band played Home, Sweet Home: J. H. Eschman, owner and manager; Bert E. Hale, assistant manager; Colonel W. B. York, general superintendent; Saul Brody, supt. of privileges; Harry White, advertising banner man; Jerome Brooks, steward; John Kelley, chef; J. W. Andrews, legal adjuster; George M. Smith, director of band. In the big show were J. W. Driscoll, equestrian director; Hite Bros., Clarence and George, gymnasts and clowns; Skerbeck Sisters, Pearl and Amanda, contortionists; the Hatsus, Japanese jugglers and equilibrists; the Aerial Widts, double trapeze and Roman ring; Matt R. Schreiner, singing and knock about clown; the J. H. Eschman troupe of twelve high-school Arabian ponies, and a second troupe of eight jet black performing Shetlands; a troupe of performing dogs and monks, troupe of goats and Little Nemo, one of the smallest and smartest performing elephants. In the annex were John Groat, manager and lecturer; Orke & Elisco(?), troupe of talking dogs, performing birds and monks, black art and illusions; Miss Vivian Groat, vocalist and mental telepathist; Emery Smith, the original Foxy Grandpa, musical act; Madame Hale, sword swallower and impalement act; Miss Josie Fisher, snake enchantress and Oriental dancer; Miss Alvina Fisher, Oriental dancer. Many of the above performers, as well as Little Nemo, elephant act, have secured engagements in vaudeville for the winter.
1913: J. H. Eschman's European Circus - J. H. Eschman, proprietor and manager; O. E. Fowler, assistant manager; E. H. Smith, treasurer and secretary; Harry E. Crandell, general agent and railroad contractor; W. B. Elliot, local contractor; F. H. Parks, special agent; Wm. Johnston, contracting press agent; Harry Dickerson, sideshow manager; W. B. York, equestrian director; L. LeDoux, superintendent privileges; J. J. Sanders, musical director; F. H. Steel, superintendent reserved seat tickets; Wm. Witt, superintendent canvas; Jack Piltcher, boss hostler; Chas. Beeley, superintendent props; Walter Colgard, superintendent elephants; Harry Eschman, legal adjuster; D. H. Decreo, announcer. Billboard, March 22, 1913.
1918:
The J. H. Eschman 10-Car Circus will be sold under the hammer, in parcels, about January 30 at the winter quarters in Kansas City, Mo., provided it isn't sold intact before that date. Billboard, January 5, 1918, p. 62.
Circus for sale at public auction, January 30, at winter quarters, 1600 Guinotte Ave., Kansas City, Mo. Owing to the great demands on my time by other business interests, I have reluctantly decided to dispose of to the highest bidders the J. H. Eschman Circus in its entirety, in parcels to suit purchasers. 10 circus length cars, 20 gray baggage horses and harness, 3 ring horses, 4 saddle horses, 2 eight pony drills, 2 January ponies, 12 other Shetlands, January donkey, 2 spotted trick mules, 2 zebras, trained llamas, troupe of performing goats, educated elephants, cage animals, baggage wagons, 2 band tableaus, 1 ticket and band wagon, eight cages, 5 new tents, complete annex equipment, lights, seats, tools. Address J. H. Eschman Circus, Kansas City, Missouri. [Advertisement] Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 31.
Kansas City, Mo., Jan. 5. Governor J. H. Eschman, who recently returned from Minneapolis, was met here by Frank A. Robbins, and they went to Paola, Kan., on business. The Eschman Circus furnished the animal acts for the municipal show at Convention Hall on Christmas Day. This was the third time the show has furnished the acts at this annual event. The elephants, dogs, ponies, goats and trained llamas were worked by Colonel W. B. York, Frank Leonard, Charlie Williams and V. A. Watkins. The big gray teams of the show are all at work in the city as usual. Eight former employees of this show are putting in the winter holding down positions in the Beggs Wagon Works near the winter quarters. Ray Dick and wife, managers of the side show, motored to Kokomo, Ind., following the close of the show. Mr. and Mrs. Lee Hall, Cliner Rose, the Three Flying Fowlers, Mike Rosey, Earl Rosberg, Frank Wannetta and Fred Coleman are wintering in Kansas City. Colonel York and wife have been filling vaudeville engagement here with the performing dogs. A complete catalog of the show property is being compiled for the big sale, January 30. Billboard, January 12, 1918, p. 62.
Kansas City, Mo., Feb. 2. The sale of the J. H. Eschman Railway Circus, Wednesday . . . The sale was in charge of Frank A. Robbins. Mr. and Mrs. Robbins are connected with the Parker Shows. The feature of the day was the sale of Little Nemo, Indian elephant, which was sold to Charles LaMont, of the LaMont Bros.' Show, for $2,750. Mr. LaMont also bought the trained lions for $175. There were twenty baggage horses, four ring horses, groups of eight and six trained Shetland ponies with trappings, two dwarf sacred zebus, goats, lions, leopards, etc., all sold at low prices. . . . Billboard, February 9, 1918, pp. 30, 63.
J. H. Eschman, who recently disposed of his Eschman World Toured Shows in Kansas City, writes that his future plans have not fully matured. "In the spring of 1919 I landed on the Pacific Coast after a tour around the world. I purchased a small circus, and for five yers thereafter ran continuously (never closing). During the eight years of my career as manager we crossed the continent in Canada three times, visited Prince Edward Island on the East and Vancouver's Island on the West. Twice we were in the West Indies, once in Old Mexico, and we have pitched our tents in every State in the Union." Billboard, March 2, 1918, p. 28.
• This was a seven car show in 1915, and a ten car show by 1916-17. Bandwagon, May-June, 1973, Vol. 17, No. 3, p. 13.
• John Harry Eschman operated his J. H. Eschman circus from 1910 through 1917. In 1909 he toured with Cole & Cooper circus. In took out the J. H. Eschman's European Shows from 1912 to 1914. In 1915-1917 he had the J. H. Eschman's World's United Railway Shows. Bandwagon, May-June, 2004, Vol. 48, No. 3, pp. 12-14.
• This show or people might be found on other pages on this website. Check out Billboard, Clipper, and/or do a Search
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Jim Eskew's Wild West - 1919
Jim Eskew's Wild West opened the season at Glendale Park, Nashville, Tenn., with the following people: Jim Eskew, owner and manager; Clyde Widener, chief cowboy; Bob Hawkins, Dixie Montoro(?), "Shorty" Suttle and Mexican Joe, cowboys; Dolly Eskew, Francis Widener and May Suttle, cowgirls. Ten head of stock is used, including two buckers and one menage horse. Billboard, June 14, 1919, p. 46.
Jim Eskew's Wild West played to packed houses for the last seven weeks through Kentucky, the fair season opening the current week at Ewing, Ky. People with the show include Clyde Widener, Dixie Montoro, Rube Gilbert, Dolly Eskew, Jimmie Edkew, Jr., Francis Widener and Jim Eskew. Seven head of horses are also carried. Billboard, August 23, 1919, p. 46.
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Esqueda Brothers' Show - 1920-21 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1920-24
• See Billboard, May 8, 1920, p. 58; September 10, 1921, p. 65; October 15, 1921, p. 66.
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Essig & Synder - 1909 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1909
Roster of Essig and Synder Shows: Geo. Essig, general manager; W. H. Snyder, treasurer; C. G. Johnson, advertising agent; G. P. Sutton, press agent; Jeff Long and Bert Hill, billpostesr. Performers: Avitt Trio, horizontal bars Harry Martin, contortion and flying trapeze; the Renzos, slack wire and Roman rings; Joe Franklin, comedy juggler; Martin and ___, double traps; the Three Stewarts, acrobats. Geo. W. Harper and Val Hewitt are the clowns. The musicians include Don Essig, E. Stewart, J. Ryan, W. H. Snyder, Wm. Flake, Geo. W. Harper, W. Todd, Chas. Edwards, R. Raymond, Roy Essig and L. Friebe. The trained stock comprises Beauty, the pony that does everything but talk; Bluch and Jim, educated baboons; Dynamite and Dimps, kicking mules; W. H. Snyder's trained dogs, featuring Earl, the dog that does back and forward somersaults. Lewis Watkins is chandelier man; Bud Jenkins and Will Hercules, properties; Jake Harris, canvas with seven assistants; Joe Wells, chef, and Will Harwood, boss hostler. In the concert are the Harpes, George, Minnie and Lefa. Billboard, August 7, 1909, p. 20.
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Circus Europa - 1980, 1984, 1991, 1997
1980: Circus Europa, owned by Alberto Zoppe, played indoor stands. Bandwagon, January-February, 1981, p. 15.
1984: Alberto and Sandra Zoppe had their Circus Europa out in 1984. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 13.
1991: The show exhibited in Hawaii in October. Bandwagon, January-February, 1992, p. 17.
1997: Circo Zoppe Europa played in the East in the last part of 1997, Albert Zoppe, owner.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1982-1992
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Circus Europorama - 1974-75, 1984-85, 1990
• Show was out in 1974-75, John Winn, owner. Circus Report, October 14, 1974, p. 2.
• Brief information on Winn's Europorama 1981 show is in Bandwagon, January-February, 1982, p. 15.
1984: Karl and Shelia Winn's Circus Europorama played the West coast in June and July. Bandwagon, January-February, 1985, p. 15.
1985: The show exhibited in ball parks and grandstands in California, Oregon and Washington in 1985. Bandwagon, January-February, 1986, p. 14.
1990: John Winn's Europorama celebrated its 25th season in 1990. The show played the Pacific Northwest in Spring and early Summer. Bandwagon, January-February, 1991, p. 17.
• Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1977-1988.
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European Circus - 1849 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1849
The European Circus will exhibit here on Monday, the 18th of June, inst. The principal attraction of the company is the performances of the celebrated Antonio Family, Chinese jugglers, &c. The papers in different places where the company has performed, speak flatteringly of the entertainment. Fort Wayne Times (IN), June 7, 1849, n.p.n.
[Advertisement] European Circus, Wm. Hubbel, manager. Will exhibit at Fort Wayne, on Monday and Tuesday, the 18th and 19th of June. Doors open at 2 and 7, performance at 2 1/2 and 7 1/2 o'clock. Admission, Boxes 50 cents. Pit, 25 cents. The proprietors of this extensive establishment, feel a pride and satisfaction in announcing the expected arrival of this, the best company both for variety and talent ever seen west of the mountains. The celebreated "Antonio Family," (now attached to this company) are fully competent, to give an exhibiton woth the price of admission. In addition to them are Mons. Orieland and Lovett the celebrated clowns; Tippo Saib, the Chinese juggler; Signor Slobiski on the slack wire; Signor and Signoretta Antonio; Mr. and Mrs. Sherwood; M'dle Antoinette Duval, from Paris, and a number of other of the most talented artistes in the country. The performances will consist (in part) of equestrianism by ladies and gentlemen; slack rope; slack wire; groung and lofty tumbling; double leaping, coming singing and dancing; a grand entree and comic afterpiece, Negro concerts and breakdowns, &c., &c. The company will perform at Huntington on the 20, at Lagro on the 21, and at Wabashtown on the 22 inst. J. P. Clement, agent. Fort Wayne Times (IN), June 14, 1849, n.p.n.
• William Hubbell managed the European Circus in 1849. the show opened in Cincinnati in April, 1849 and spent most of the year in Indiana. The Antonio Family (Antonio, Lorezo, Augustus and Alphonso) was featured. The show presented equestrian feats, slack rope, slack wire, tumbling, a grand entree and comic afterpiece. The circus only lasted one year. Kotal, S. L., Gessler, J. E., The Rise of the American Circus, 1716-1899, North Carolina: McFarland & Co., 2011, p. 157.
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European Circus - 1882
Carroll & Rose were managers when it stranded at Lexington, Missouri in September 1882. Retlaw & Alton have recently recovered their salary from it. New York Clipper, November 6, 1886, p. 539.
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Evans' Big Ten Cent Show - 1889
Wanted, for Evans' Big Ten Cent Show, people in all branches of the circus business, except riders; advance agent. Show going South. Mons. La Delle, Cairo, Ill., until Nov. 9. New York Clipper, November 2, 1889, p. 578.
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Evans' One-Ring Circus - 1916, 1918-19 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1914-1935
1916: Wanted, for the Evans One-Ring Circus. Young lady to work props; must be good looking and weigh about 140 lbs., and have fine costumes, such as rosin back riders use; prefer one that is accustomed to horses, but have no riding to do. Also a bucking mule rider, young man, weighing about 150-160 lbs., a man that understands the bucking mule acts. I draw no line on color for this act, but must be a gentleman. Have no use for rowdies. J. J. Evans' One-Ring Circus, Massillon, Ohio. Billboard, March 18, 1916, p. 114.
1918: Wanted for Evans' One-Ring Circus. Young girl to ride high school horse and work in the ring. Prefer experience, but if you have none I can teach you the act. J. J. Evans, Massillon, O. [Advertisement] Billboard, March 23, 1918, p. 159.
• Information on the 1919 Evans Bros. show, see Billboard, 1919 - scroll down or use find.
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Everest's Indoor Circus - 1915, 1917
1915:
Edward F. Everest's Indoor Society Circus opened at Tiffin, O., September 10. This was Mr. Everest's first appearance with a show in Tiffin, which is his home town, in six years. The Cowboy Band, undr the direction of Dow Roberts, is a feature of the show (six men and three girls). Marguerite and her lions make up the star act. She has five lions and handles them well. The program for the show: Mlle. Irene, Serpentine Wonder; Col. J. M. Straub, troupe of performing dogs; Walter Harter, aerial gymnast, assisted by his dog, Queenie; Dawson and Booth, novelty talking, roller skating and singing act; Jake Rice, troupe of comedy pigs; Wiley, the menage pony; clowns; McElroy and Lanardo, comedy acrobats. The Kobers, aerialists, two women and a man. The show went to Sandusky, O., from Tiffin. Billboard, September 25, 1915, p. 22.
Marguerite and her four trained and performing lions. Engaged as an extra added attraction for the Everest's All Feature Indoor Circus, now playing for and under the auspices of lodges, bands, etc. Address Everest's All Feature Indoor Circus, care Billboard, Cincinnati, Ohio. [Advertisement] Billboard, December 18, 1915, p. 115.
1917: Wanted for the Everest's All Feature Shows. Circus acts, animal acts, elephant, seals, monkey circus, circus band leader. Opens Nov. 28. Lady musicians for musical tab. Opens Nov. 8. Address H. Winters, Canton, Ohio. [Advertisement] Billboard, October 27, 1917, p. 2.
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Ewing Bros. - 1897
The La Von Brothers, aerialists, have signed with the Ewing Brothers' Circus, with which they open in April. Owing to Alvin La Von's fall, they have been idle this Winter. New York Clipper, January 23, 1897, p. 749.
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Excel Animal Circus - 1926-27, 1932-33 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1923-26
1926: Excel Circus at Lorain County Fair, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday. Wm. Schulz presents wild and domestic animal acts. 1 ring, 1 steel arena, 1 stage. Three bears, 1 lion, one dog, three horses. Educated horses, ponies, mules, monkeys and dogs. Funny clowns. Schultz Family of athletes in feats of strength. Watch for the parade, band, calliope. [Advertisement] Chronicle-Telegram (Elyria, OH), September 3, 1926, p. 12.
1927:
Ellicottville's Old Home Week. Among the first of the week's features were the free attractions by William Schultz, who performed feats of strength and skill and Samson, the strong boy who allowed an automobile to run over him, had a rock smashed on his chest, bent iron bars double and swallowed fire. Schultz lifted two men weighing better than 225 pounds each, a small boy and Mrs. Schultz, all at the same time. He also lifted hugh weights above his head, twelve billiard cues with two fingers and other "stunts>' The Excel Animal Circus included free acts showing sheep and a goat in a trained act. In the parade Professor William Schultz rode a bay horse, and behind were dozens of little circus ponies, five horse back riders including men and women, the lion cubs, monkeys and the calliope. Weddings in the lion's arena at the Excel Animal circus capped the climax of Saturday night's entertainment. . . . The Post (Ellicottville, NY), August 24, 1927, p. 1.
William Schultz, owner and proprietor of the Excel Animal Circus the show which played here Old Home Week, has sold his interests in the circus to Jacob (Jake) Jackle, of Olean, the latter realizing a lifelong ambition of owning his own circus. The Excel Circus is now in winter quarters on the farm of Dr. Cortwright in Randolph. Mr. Schultz, the former owner, has signed to take complete charge of the affairs of the show when the start is made on the road in the Spring. The Excel Circus consists of a herd of 22 ponies, trained horses, mules, bears, trained dogs, monkeys, pigeons, sheep, goat, bear, lions etc. The Post (Ellicottville, NY), October 19, 1927, p. 1.
1932:
A breach of contract action, brought by the United States Circus corporation of which Major Robert Kent, Jr., proprietor of the Bedford Inn, in Olenham, is the chief representative, against Willaim Schultz and the Excel Circus exposition, inc., is slated to go to trial in the United States district court at New York. The complaint charges that Schultz entered in agreement with Major Kent on April 3, 1930, to furnish animals for Kent's circus and to train them. The circus subsequently went on the rocks and Major Kent brought the action, alleging that Schultz failed to live up to his end of the contract. Poughkeepsie Eagle-News (Poughkeepsie,NY), April 30, 1932, p. 2.
Ken and Verba were the petitioning creditors in a bankruptcy proceeding against Capt. William Schultz, who operated the Excel Circus at Luna Park, Coney Island, and who is at present operating as the Olympic Circus Corporation at Philadelphia. . . . Brooklyn Daily Eagle (Brooklyn,NY), July 26, 1932, p. 4.
1933: In Brooklyn Federal Court, a motion for retrail of an unsuccessful suit of last July, which sought to have William Schultz and his Excel Circus adjudged bankrupt. The circus, now in Pittsburgh, was then at Coney Island. . . . Brooklyn Daily Eagle (Brooklyn,NY), January 27, 1933, p. 2.
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Excello Circus - 1932 Show listed in Parkinson's Directory of American Circuses, 1921-28
The Excello Circus, which recently completed an engagement at a Bronx armory for the benefit of Catholic charity, has moved into winter quarters at
Roosevelt Field. It will occupy two hangers. One occupant of a hanger in which the north pole plane of Commander Richard E. Byrd was once kept, and which also has been used by Clarence Chamberlin and Rene Fonck, is a large elephant named Lindy. New York Sun (New York, NY), January 4, 1932, p. 24.
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Roster: Fred Elzor, manager; John Wright, assistant manager; H. C. Fay, big show ticket seller; John Washburn, superintendent of canvas with ten men; Arthur Banson, outside attraction; Frazer Clark, upside down ladder and ground rings; the Courtneys, double traps and Roman rings; Smith and Ramsdell, novelty acrobats; Jack Ray Dee, slack wire, traps and juggling; Edgar E?gers, singing and talking clown; Mrs. Elzor, contortionist; Howard Ramsdell, rolling glove and clown; John Schremmer, hand balancing and clown, and Lee Smith, mule rider and clown. Billboard, December 14, 1912, p. 72.
At Owens, Wis., the first week out, the show encountered a terrific storm, which tore the big show top in two while the afternoon show was in progress. No one was hurt. At Prentice, Wis., the next day, only the stake and chain wagon was loaded and did not proceed half a length away from the cars when it sank to the hubs in the mud. The Governor ordered the paraphernalia loaded back on to the cars and blew that stand. In Northern Minnesota storms were of almost daily occurrence. At Quill Lake, Saskatchewan, J. W. Driscoll, equestrian director, and Miss Mandy Skerbeck were married. At the evening performance numerous presents that had been purchased by the attches of the show were brought into the ring and presented to the newly-married couple. At Lloyd Minister, Saskatchewan, Mr. Eschman spent the day with the Howe's Great London Circus. At Yorkton he autoed thirty miles across the prairies and spent the day with the Al G. Barnes Shows.
On July 29 the show was at Fort Saskatchewan, the most northern point ever reached by a circus on the Western hemisphere, and, in spite of the cold weather there, business was fairly satisfactory. During the latter part of the summer, and before the crops were harvested, in Central Alberta and Saskatchewan, Canada, many mornings the ground would be covered with a white, killing frost, which did untold damage and will doubtless make sledding rougher than ever for the tent shows in that section next season. At Portland, Ore., an entire new spread of canvas, flags and pennants, for both the big show and annex was received. The show traveled 7,321 miles and visited the following states and provinces: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, Nebraska and Iowa. This show did not "make a million" this season, neither has it missed a single payday for the past two seasons. Next spring will find it out again before the public and it will undoubtedly remain in the United States altogether. Billboard, November 25, 1911, p. 27.
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