Circa 1905
Saturday, February 12, 2011
Monday, February 07, 2011
Two Shows?
Which show are you going to go see?
This was taken in Marietta, Ohio on July 4, 1920.
There has to be a story behind this photo. Does anyone know the whats and whys?
Saturday, February 05, 2011
Circus Day
It's Circus Day here today. We are going to see the Royal Hanneford Circus this morning and then the Ringling Blue Unit this afternoon. Ringling Red is in Greenville, SC this week which places all of the Ringling train in South Carolina in the same week. According to yesterday's newspaper, there are 61 cars on the blue unit.
Friday, February 04, 2011
America's Elephants
It's been a while since I mentioned my book and thanks to a couple that have asked about it. It is an e-Book available on my website at http://www.thecircusworld.com/americas-elephants and on Amazon.com both.Monday, January 31, 2011
Family Fun Circus
Here are a few more pictures from Chris Grieder up in Minnesota that he took in July of 2008. Is this Nosey?
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Family Fun Circus
This picture is on their website. Is this a banner, a truck, main entrance? Any ideas?
Family Fun Circus
I received a phone call from the American Legion national headquarters in Indianapolis yesterday asking me how to get a hold of the Family Fun Circus. I found these two pictures on their website and an email address.
Has anyone seen the show? Any comments, recommendations or knowledge as to where they'll be at soon, who owns it etc.?
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Barton & Bailey
This photo was taken in 1915. The Barton & Bailey show folded in Montana and Wm. P. Hall paid the freight to get it back to his farm. Incidentally, John Barton continued to pay his debt to Wm. P. Hall and a couple years later a note is found in the Wm. P. Hall papers at CWM that says his debt was paid in full.That's not to say that other people didn't pay their debts, but Mr. Barton's note is the only one that still survives.
Barton & Bailey
This is the five act that came from the Wm. P. Hall farm. Comprised of Alice, Annie, Lizzie, Boo, and Diamond, as far as we know, it was the only five act ever put together and leased out from the Hall Farm. Alice, Annie and Lizzie had all came from the Campbell Bros. Great Consolidated Shows when they folded in 1912. Boo came from the Ringlings and Diamond later went on to be known as Black Diamond.Barton & Bailey
This is only identified as 1915 in Montana. This is from the Richard Conover collection.
Barton & Bailey
This photo was taken June 6, 1915 in Lima, Montana. It is from the Donald Carson collection.Barton & Bailey
This photo was taken June 6, 1915 in Lima, Montana. It is from the Donald Carson collection.Saturday, January 22, 2011
Model Builders Show at the Ringling Museums today
We were presented with a couple photos taken at the Circus Model Builders show held in the Ringling Circus museums today. I'll bet they had a great time. All photos are courtesy of Randy Peterson.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Cottage style rooflines
The John Robinson Ten Big Shows had the greatest assortment of Cottage cages of any show on the road. This is from the turn of the century. Richard Conover gave countless hours towards researching these various cages. This is one of them that has never been identified by a number. Does anyone have a photo of this cage where the cage number can be seen?Cottage style rooflines
Here it is from the back end in a 1907 photo taken on the John Robinson Circus.Cottage style rooflines
This is probably the best photo ever found of this cage. Note the "Bubble" roof over each section as it goes down to the "Awning." This photo was taken in 1925 on the Al G. Barnes Circus. It is part of the Pfening Archives.Cottage style rooflines
Here is what is left of the last existing cottage cage taken in the 1940's at Jimmy Woods compound in California.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
From Pete Adams
Just a reminder about the Windjammers and Sailor Circus joint performance on Sunday is at 1 p.m. No ticket is needed by any fan of the circus. Just come and enjoy.
Also the Concert Band of Windjammers will be performing at the Ringling Museum on Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m.
Likewise the local circus model builders will be exhibiting their models in the Original Circus Museum Backyard on Saturday from 10 to 4.
Circus Sarasota is also giving some shows during the day.
That evening at 7 p.m. will be the Celebrity Night for the Circus in the Asolo Theatre.
No ticket is needed for the Circus Celebrity Night and regular tickets are all that is need at the Ringing during the day.
Much to do this weekend. Not enough time. Also the BBQ Fund Raiser for the Amish and Mennonite Community is at the Fairgrounds Friday Night at 5 p.m. Great Food Option.
Also the Concert Band of Windjammers will be performing at the Ringling Museum on Saturday afternoon at 2 p.m.
Likewise the local circus model builders will be exhibiting their models in the Original Circus Museum Backyard on Saturday from 10 to 4.
Circus Sarasota is also giving some shows during the day.
That evening at 7 p.m. will be the Celebrity Night for the Circus in the Asolo Theatre.
No ticket is needed for the Circus Celebrity Night and regular tickets are all that is need at the Ringing during the day.
Much to do this weekend. Not enough time. Also the BBQ Fund Raiser for the Amish and Mennonite Community is at the Fairgrounds Friday Night at 5 p.m. Great Food Option.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Circus Celebraties
I just got this from Pete Adams who had Jackie LeClaire send it to him. Double click this to make it bigger.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Al G. Barnes Circus
I finally finished the Al G. Barnes Circus and the Al G. Barnes and Sells-Floto Circus Photo Album today. There are 315 black and white photos from over the years. These were collected from a variety of individuals and now create a terrific look into circus history from long ago.They are now on sale on my website at http://www.thecircusworld.com along with about 10 other photo albums I have digitized to share with everyone.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Snow Day!
We have had a winter storm come through the Carolinas, Georgia and other parts of the South. It's a snow day here with at least five inches of snow and its still falling. Needless to say everything is closed. No work today either. However, this afternoon it is supposed to turn to sleet and freezing rain with a good freeze tonight making tomorrow much more treacherous that today.At least, I'm getting lots of circus research done at home today. Alrighty then, it might be time for some more coffee.
Sunday, January 09, 2011
Kay Rosaire's Big Cat Habitat
I received this from Pete Adams today:
The schedule for Kay Rosaire's Animal Extravaganza for 2011 have been received:
Feb 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27
Fridays at 6 p.m.
Saturday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Sunday at 2 p.m.
These will be performed under the Alain Zerbini Tent on the grounds of the Big Cat Habitat.
Gates open one hour earlier for each performance. Camel Rides, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo
Feb 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27
Fridays at 6 p.m.
Saturday at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.
Sunday at 2 p.m.
These will be performed under the Alain Zerbini Tent on the grounds of the Big Cat Habitat.
Gates open one hour earlier for each performance. Camel Rides, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo
To find out more about the Habitat go to http://bigcathabitat.org/
Friday, January 07, 2011
Cottage style roofs
I have been compiling some research into the different cottage style rooflines used on circus vehilces over the years. The grandest creations appear to have all come out of the George Schmidt wagon works in Cincinnati, Ohio who manufacturered most if not all of the elaborately designed Cottage Cages for the John Robinson 10 Big Shows from 1896 to around 1904.I've added a few other rooflines in the following photos. Richard Conover described a cottage cage as anything that didn't have the flat roof structure in his book "Give 'em a John Robinson."
Would anyone have any other rooflines to share with me that are unusual and not the typical flat roof? If you do, please email me at fivetiger@shtc.net I would be delighted to see them.
Cottage style roofs
This is a John Robinson's 10 Big Shows cottage cage with the sides in place during a parade.
Cottage style roofs
This is a John Robinson's 10 Big Shows cottage cage taken before 1906 - John C. Artor collection
Cottage style roofs
Here's one of the old John Robinson Cottage cages at Peru before it was set on fire in 1941.
Cottage style roofs
This unidentified Dog and Pony show had this really neat little cage with a sweeping roof line from front to back. Notice the barred opening at the top that shows the roofline going over it. Does anyone recognize this show?Cottage style roofs
This is a Beggs Wagon Works photo. The roof is very detailed. The center mirror is on a Bay like in a hippo den.Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Winter Mixer
Celebrating 50 Years!
WINTER CIRCUS “MIXER”
SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2011
In
Beautiful BARABOO, WISCONSIN @ “The Farm Kitchen” Restauran (Farm Kitchen is located near the North entrance to Devil’s Lake State Park @ S5718 Highway 123)
With permission/blessings of Gordon & Dorothy Yadon, we wish to continue this traditional mid-winter gathering of circus fans, friends, enthusiasts and professionals to rid ourselves of the winter time blas and circus news withdrawals which seem to plague most people, who are interested, this time of year!
EVERYONE IS INVITED!
Circus Fans, Enthusiasts, Professionals, Interested By-Standers!
ALL ARE WELCOME!!!
“This event is conducted for the purpose of fostering a gathering of individuals with a mutual interest in the
Circus – CFA, CHS, CMB, Clown Alley, etc”.
PROGRAM
12:00 Noon – Room opens for anyone that wishes to display, sell, or exhibit circus related items! Tables are
$10.00 each! “Bull Room” will be one in the same, and space is limited!
5:00 PM – Informative Lecture presented by noted local circus historian!
“Worth the Price of Admission Alone!!!”
5:30-6:30 PM – “Circus Social” (cash bar, a short walk away!) Wear your “boots”, as it may get pretty “deep” around this time!
6:30 PM – “Pitch ‘Til You Win” Buffet in the meeting room! 3 Meats, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Dressing, Salad Bar and Desert! Always a good meal!
Following the Buffet: “Fast moving program with reports on 2011 circus activities!” (A 10 minute time limit, per person, please!)
COST - $20.00 PER PERSON! (Advance!) $25.00 (Day Of!)
Please make reservations no later than January 8, 2011. List names as you want them to appear on badges. Reservations will not be acknowledged! Pick up badges upon arrival at entrance way to “Circus Lot”!
SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2011
In
Beautiful BARABOO, WISCONSIN @ “The Farm Kitchen” Restauran (Farm Kitchen is located near the North entrance to Devil’s Lake State Park @ S5718 Highway 123)
With permission/blessings of Gordon & Dorothy Yadon, we wish to continue this traditional mid-winter gathering of circus fans, friends, enthusiasts and professionals to rid ourselves of the winter time blas and circus news withdrawals which seem to plague most people, who are interested, this time of year!
EVERYONE IS INVITED!
Circus Fans, Enthusiasts, Professionals, Interested By-Standers!
ALL ARE WELCOME!!!
“This event is conducted for the purpose of fostering a gathering of individuals with a mutual interest in the
Circus – CFA, CHS, CMB, Clown Alley, etc”.
PROGRAM
12:00 Noon – Room opens for anyone that wishes to display, sell, or exhibit circus related items! Tables are
$10.00 each! “Bull Room” will be one in the same, and space is limited!
5:00 PM – Informative Lecture presented by noted local circus historian!
“Worth the Price of Admission Alone!!!”
5:30-6:30 PM – “Circus Social” (cash bar, a short walk away!) Wear your “boots”, as it may get pretty “deep” around this time!
6:30 PM – “Pitch ‘Til You Win” Buffet in the meeting room! 3 Meats, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Dressing, Salad Bar and Desert! Always a good meal!
Following the Buffet: “Fast moving program with reports on 2011 circus activities!” (A 10 minute time limit, per person, please!)
COST - $20.00 PER PERSON! (Advance!) $25.00 (Day Of!)
Please make reservations no later than January 8, 2011. List names as you want them to appear on badges. Reservations will not be acknowledged! Pick up badges upon arrival at entrance way to “Circus Lot”!
“FOLLOW THE ARROWS”
Please make reservations, by remitting to: Peter Sturgis, 541 Fourth Avenue, Baraboo, WI 53913-2034, or call 608/356-6890. Leave a message if we don’t answer! Preferably mail in advance! “”Day Of” reservations will be $5.00 more!!! Please put in notation area: “CIRCUS MIXER – 2011”
PLEASE NOTE – THERE IS NO RAIN (SNOW) DATE FOR THIS EVENT! THIS EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE REGARDLESS OF WEATHER! IF YOU CANNOT MAKE “IT” BECAUSE OF UNSAFE ROADS, OR INCLIMATE WEATHER, YOUR MONEY WILL BE REFUNDED! YOU WILL HAVE TO CALL TO CANCEL, THOUGH!
IF YOU PLAN TO STAY OVER THERE ARE QUITE A FEW NICE, NOT SO NICE, AND VERY NICE, MOTELS IN THE AREA. Here’s a link, for those who have a computer: http://travel.yahoo.com/p-hotel-480383-baraboo_hotels-i
“HOPE YOU CAN ATTEND AND FEEL FREE TO INVITE ANY INTERESTED FRIEND(S) WHO
MAY NOT BE ON THE MAILING LIST!”
(Please note this is NOT a money making venture! All extra monies donated, from raffles, or just handed over are for the continuation of this event! This is not for profit! It is strictly for the propagation of the circus, and all surrounding activities! Postage, transportation to find a suitable location, and phone calls do COST $$$!)
“BEST WISHES FOR A HEALTHFUL 2011!”
Please make reservations, by remitting to: Peter Sturgis, 541 Fourth Avenue, Baraboo, WI 53913-2034, or call 608/356-6890. Leave a message if we don’t answer! Preferably mail in advance! “”Day Of” reservations will be $5.00 more!!! Please put in notation area: “CIRCUS MIXER – 2011”
PLEASE NOTE – THERE IS NO RAIN (SNOW) DATE FOR THIS EVENT! THIS EVENT WILL TAKE PLACE REGARDLESS OF WEATHER! IF YOU CANNOT MAKE “IT” BECAUSE OF UNSAFE ROADS, OR INCLIMATE WEATHER, YOUR MONEY WILL BE REFUNDED! YOU WILL HAVE TO CALL TO CANCEL, THOUGH!
IF YOU PLAN TO STAY OVER THERE ARE QUITE A FEW NICE, NOT SO NICE, AND VERY NICE, MOTELS IN THE AREA. Here’s a link, for those who have a computer: http://travel.yahoo.com/p-hotel-480383-baraboo_hotels-i
“HOPE YOU CAN ATTEND AND FEEL FREE TO INVITE ANY INTERESTED FRIEND(S) WHO
MAY NOT BE ON THE MAILING LIST!”
(Please note this is NOT a money making venture! All extra monies donated, from raffles, or just handed over are for the continuation of this event! This is not for profit! It is strictly for the propagation of the circus, and all surrounding activities! Postage, transportation to find a suitable location, and phone calls do COST $$$!)
“BEST WISHES FOR A HEALTHFUL 2011!”
Monday, January 03, 2011
Mary Jane Price
One of Circus History's all time good guys, Mr. Dave "Ol Whitey" Price lost his beloved wife yesterday to Alzheimer's Disease. My heart goes out to you Dave.
Price, Mary Jane departed this life Sunday January 2, 2011 at age 76 after suffering the cruel effects of Alzheimer's Disease for several years.
Mary Jane was the older daughter of the late Henry and Alice Elliott Klatt; she was born in the tiny coal-mining village of Oswald, West Virginia. Her father Henry fell in the service of his Country in December 1944; her mother Alice remarried in 1948 and the family lived in Corpus Christi, Guam and San Diego, where Mary Jane graduated from San Diego High School. She worked for doctors and in hospitals most of her life and was an Accredited (Medical) Records Technician. She retired as Administrative Assistant of the Division of Surgical Research, Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
Mary Jane was a faithful member of Johnson's Chapel United Methodist Church. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of forty-one years Dave Price, son John Price, sister Freeda (Ted) Svendsen, nephew Rob (Diane) Svendsen, niece Kelly (Jimmy) Riccio, all of the San Diego area, aunt Sue (Dennis) Carney-Kulig of Duck Key, Florida, several great and great-great nephews and nieces, and many dear friends.
The family is grateful to India (Mrs Bob) Watterson, who was always there when Mary Jane needed her through the many months of her final illness, to old and valued friend Scott Hendrick for going far above and beyond throughout this struggle and to Dr William Maynard, a caring and patient guide through the many twists and turns of this dreaded disease. Her various Caregivers have been so much help and support and we especially thank Melissa Wellington and Princess Sanders for their long and tireless service. We greatly appreciate the encouragement of the Alzheimer's Support Group and Sunny Day class at Brentwood UMC. Special thanks to our devoted preacher Daly Thompson and dear friend Sue Ann Brown. Visitation Tuesday evening January 4, 2011 from 5;00 pm to 7:00 pm. Services will be conducted Wednesday January 5, 2011 at ______ (1:00 pm if available) ____________ by Dr Daly Thompson, Jr. at Brentwood Funeral Home
Price, Mary Jane departed this life Sunday January 2, 2011 at age 76 after suffering the cruel effects of Alzheimer's Disease for several years.
Mary Jane was the older daughter of the late Henry and Alice Elliott Klatt; she was born in the tiny coal-mining village of Oswald, West Virginia. Her father Henry fell in the service of his Country in December 1944; her mother Alice remarried in 1948 and the family lived in Corpus Christi, Guam and San Diego, where Mary Jane graduated from San Diego High School. She worked for doctors and in hospitals most of her life and was an Accredited (Medical) Records Technician. She retired as Administrative Assistant of the Division of Surgical Research, Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine.
Mary Jane was a faithful member of Johnson's Chapel United Methodist Church. She leaves to cherish her memory her husband of forty-one years Dave Price, son John Price, sister Freeda (Ted) Svendsen, nephew Rob (Diane) Svendsen, niece Kelly (Jimmy) Riccio, all of the San Diego area, aunt Sue (Dennis) Carney-Kulig of Duck Key, Florida, several great and great-great nephews and nieces, and many dear friends.
The family is grateful to India (Mrs Bob) Watterson, who was always there when Mary Jane needed her through the many months of her final illness, to old and valued friend Scott Hendrick for going far above and beyond throughout this struggle and to Dr William Maynard, a caring and patient guide through the many twists and turns of this dreaded disease. Her various Caregivers have been so much help and support and we especially thank Melissa Wellington and Princess Sanders for their long and tireless service. We greatly appreciate the encouragement of the Alzheimer's Support Group and Sunny Day class at Brentwood UMC. Special thanks to our devoted preacher Daly Thompson and dear friend Sue Ann Brown. Visitation Tuesday evening January 4, 2011 from 5;00 pm to 7:00 pm. Services will be conducted Wednesday January 5, 2011 at ______ (1:00 pm if available) ____________ by Dr Daly Thompson, Jr. at Brentwood Funeral Home
Mary Jane Price
The upper picture is from 1977. The lower picture was taken in 2003.Rest in Peace Mary Jane!
Saturday, January 01, 2011
Happy New Year!
Happy New Year One and All! The Rose Bowl Parade has honored the circus many times over the years. this photo is by Brent Fultz from 2008. You can find more of his photos at http://www.its.caltech.edu/~matsci/btf/Rose_Parade.html
Winter Quarters
This was the entrance to the Al G. Barnes Circus Winter Quarters in California. The beginning of a New Year meant opening day wasn't far away. I suspect that most if not all of these photos are from Charlie Puck but they aren't marked. These are all in the Al G. Barnes Photo Album I am digitizing right now.
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