Here is the CWM Flatcar # 52 when it was still on the World of Mirth Shows. This is from the Dan McGinnis collection.Sunday, November 06, 2011
Flatcar # 52
Here is the CWM Flatcar # 52 when it was still on the World of Mirth Shows. This is from the Dan McGinnis collection.
Flatcar # 52
This is a Joe Back photo from 1992. This photo shows the truss type supports of the car frame.
Friday, November 04, 2011
America's Circus is under ATTACK!
CIRCUS ALERT: November 4, 2011
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Under Attack
– Congressman Moran attempts to outlaw circuses
As members of our Feld Entertainment family and friends, we wanted to update you on recent events in Congress. Congressman Jim Moran (D-VA) has introduced legislation that outlaws the transportation of animals and targets circuses. This legislation would make it impossible for Ringling Bros. or any other circus to continue to operate with such animals. As a result, this bill would jeopardize more than 750 Feld Entertainment jobs that are directly tied to Ringling Bros., including 250 located in Moran’s district.
The company issued a press statement that you can read by clicking here.
Ringling Bros. has been entertaining and creating special memories for over 140 years. We look forward to continuing to bring The Greatest Show On Earth to families throughout the United States, but we need your help to make sure this family tradition continues.
We need your help! Please click here to oppose this bill.
Feel free to forward this email to friends, family members, business associates, circus fans and others you think would be interested in supporting the circus.
Thank you,
Mike Shannon
President and COO
Feld Entertainment
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Under Attack
– Congressman Moran attempts to outlaw circuses
As members of our Feld Entertainment family and friends, we wanted to update you on recent events in Congress. Congressman Jim Moran (D-VA) has introduced legislation that outlaws the transportation of animals and targets circuses. This legislation would make it impossible for Ringling Bros. or any other circus to continue to operate with such animals. As a result, this bill would jeopardize more than 750 Feld Entertainment jobs that are directly tied to Ringling Bros., including 250 located in Moran’s district.
The company issued a press statement that you can read by clicking here.
Ringling Bros. has been entertaining and creating special memories for over 140 years. We look forward to continuing to bring The Greatest Show On Earth to families throughout the United States, but we need your help to make sure this family tradition continues.
We need your help! Please click here to oppose this bill.
Feel free to forward this email to friends, family members, business associates, circus fans and others you think would be interested in supporting the circus.
Thank you,
Mike Shannon
President and COO
Feld Entertainment
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
Flatcar # 53
The History of Flatcar # 53
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 57.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Greater Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth. Bernardi Greater Shows bought new 72’ Warrens in 1926/1927. World of Mirth then ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936. The Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell owned Cole Bros. Circus ordered six new Warrens in 1937. They also bought three from the Sam Gumpertz era of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Other shows that were known to have sold the train cars that eventully ended up on Cole Bros. Circus included S.W. Brundage Shows, Dodson Shows, and 101 Ranch which had their cars come from the defunct King Bros., Gentry Bros. and 1929 Cole Bros. World Toured Circus.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted Silver with Red letters and a White Outline. It was titled Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Circus and lettered the same on both sides.
In 1990, the car was repainted with a Silver base and an orange body inside the outer steel frame of the Gunwales with Silver lettering and a Blue Outline titled W.W. Cole’s Great New York & New Orleans Zoological Exposition. This paint scheme remained as such through 1996.
The car was then repainted again in 1997. It was a Chrome Aluminum car with Bright Red letters and a Emerald green shadow titled Cole Bros. Circus with Clyde Beatty & Ken Maynard. This paint scheme remained through the last Milwaukee parade in 2003.
It is stored outside the Train sheds of the Circus World Museum on a side track as of Sept. 2007.
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 57.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Greater Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth. Bernardi Greater Shows bought new 72’ Warrens in 1926/1927. World of Mirth then ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936. The Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell owned Cole Bros. Circus ordered six new Warrens in 1937. They also bought three from the Sam Gumpertz era of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Other shows that were known to have sold the train cars that eventully ended up on Cole Bros. Circus included S.W. Brundage Shows, Dodson Shows, and 101 Ranch which had their cars come from the defunct King Bros., Gentry Bros. and 1929 Cole Bros. World Toured Circus.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted Silver with Red letters and a White Outline. It was titled Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Circus and lettered the same on both sides.
In 1990, the car was repainted with a Silver base and an orange body inside the outer steel frame of the Gunwales with Silver lettering and a Blue Outline titled W.W. Cole’s Great New York & New Orleans Zoological Exposition. This paint scheme remained as such through 1996.
The car was then repainted again in 1997. It was a Chrome Aluminum car with Bright Red letters and a Emerald green shadow titled Cole Bros. Circus with Clyde Beatty & Ken Maynard. This paint scheme remained through the last Milwaukee parade in 2003.
It is stored outside the Train sheds of the Circus World Museum on a side track as of Sept. 2007.
Flatcar # 53
Here in the center area of the photo is car #57 while on the World of Mirth Shows. This is from the Dan McGinnis collection.
Flatcar # 53
Here is an Earl Finger photo from 1990 showing one side of the car with this lettering scheme.
Flatcar # 53
This photo by Matthew Condron from 1998 shows a good clear view of the truss type re-inforcements under the car.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Flatcar # 54
The History of Flatcar # 54
This flatcar is a 70 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 39. The car is easily identifiable by a box in the center below the gunwale.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1920 and 1927, it has been documented that the Bernardi Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted White with Red letters and a Blue Shading. It was titled The Great Sells-Floto Shows Consolidated and lettered the same on both sides of the car through 1996.
In 1997, the car was repainted Lemon Yellow with Black letters and a Red Outline titled Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Circus and remained as such until the last Milwaukee parade in 2003.
It is stored outside the Train sheds of the Circus World Museum on a side track as of Sept. 2007.
This flatcar is a 70 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 39. The car is easily identifiable by a box in the center below the gunwale.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1920 and 1927, it has been documented that the Bernardi Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted White with Red letters and a Blue Shading. It was titled The Great Sells-Floto Shows Consolidated and lettered the same on both sides of the car through 1996.
In 1997, the car was repainted Lemon Yellow with Black letters and a Red Outline titled Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Circus and remained as such until the last Milwaukee parade in 2003.
It is stored outside the Train sheds of the Circus World Museum on a side track as of Sept. 2007.
Flatcar # 54
This is a Joe Back photo from 1992. This is one side of the car. The next photo shows the other side with the box below the main gunnel.
Flatcar # 54
This is a Matthew Condron photo from 1998. This was the second year for this new paint scheme.
Flatcar # 54
With the yellow slowing fading, the flatcar sits above the car barns. I took this photo in 2006.
Flatcar # 55
The History of Flatcar # 55
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from the World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 49.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Shows bought 72’ cars in 1927. They later changed the name to World of Mirth. World of Mirth ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936.
The Zack Terrell and Jess Adkins owned Cole Bros. Circus bought six new Warrens in 1937. Ringling, under Sam Gumpertz reign of control, sold three Warrens to World of Mirth in the winter of 1936 / 1937. S.W. Brundage sold a car to the Cole Bros. Circus in 1935 along with Dodson’s Shows. The 101 ranch Wild West Show bought the old King Brothers Circus, Gentry Bros. from 1927 / 1928 and the 1929 Cole Bros. Circus. This car has been identified as being on the Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell Cole Bros. Circus in 1949 being numbered # 7 and by 1951 the car was renumbered # 36. It is easily recognized by the steel re-enforcements under the gunwales of the car.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted a dark orange with White letters and a Blue Outline. It was titled John Robinson 10 Big Shows Combined and lettered the same on both sides of the car through 1996.
In 1997, the car was repainted Silver with Red letters and a Light Green Shadow titled Cole Bros. Circus and remained as such until the last Milwaukee parade in 2003.
This car is sitting outside on a spur track at the train buildings of the CWM as of Sept. 2007.
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from the World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 49.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Shows bought 72’ cars in 1927. They later changed the name to World of Mirth. World of Mirth ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936.
The Zack Terrell and Jess Adkins owned Cole Bros. Circus bought six new Warrens in 1937. Ringling, under Sam Gumpertz reign of control, sold three Warrens to World of Mirth in the winter of 1936 / 1937. S.W. Brundage sold a car to the Cole Bros. Circus in 1935 along with Dodson’s Shows. The 101 ranch Wild West Show bought the old King Brothers Circus, Gentry Bros. from 1927 / 1928 and the 1929 Cole Bros. Circus. This car has been identified as being on the Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell Cole Bros. Circus in 1949 being numbered # 7 and by 1951 the car was renumbered # 36. It is easily recognized by the steel re-enforcements under the gunwales of the car.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted a dark orange with White letters and a Blue Outline. It was titled John Robinson 10 Big Shows Combined and lettered the same on both sides of the car through 1996.
In 1997, the car was repainted Silver with Red letters and a Light Green Shadow titled Cole Bros. Circus and remained as such until the last Milwaukee parade in 2003.
This car is sitting outside on a spur track at the train buildings of the CWM as of Sept. 2007.
Flatcar # 55
Here it is in use on the World of Mirth Carnival. This is from the Dan McGinnis collection.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Another Lawsuit thrown out.
Court dismisses lawsuit over treatment of circus elephants
By Bill Mears, CNN
updated 4:35 PM EST, Fri October 28, 2011
Washington (CNN) -- A lawsuit claiming systematic abuse and exploitation of elephants by the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus was dismissed Friday by a federal appeals court.
The three-judge panel concluded two animal protection groups and a former employee with Feld Entertainment Inc., owners of the circus, did not have "standing" -- or authority -- to bring the lawsuit, since they could not establish actual legal "injury" to themselves. The judges also questioned the credibility of the one-time circus worker, the main witness in the litigation.
The key question was whether the standard, open use of metal restraining and control devices improperly created the illusion, especially among children, they did no physical or psychological damage to the animals.
"Nothing in the record supports the key link in (the plaintiffs) argument, namely that Feld's use of bullhooks and chains fosters a public impression that these practices are harmless."
Vienna, Virginia-based Feld owns the country's largest collection of Asian elephants, an endangered species. They travel and perform as part of the multi-act circus. Most are kept at a Florida sanctuary in the off-season.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Animal Protection Institute (API) joined forces, alleging Ringling Brothers harms the animals in violation of the Endangered Species Act. They were assisted by a former trainer -- called a "barn helper" in court records -- who testified the world's largest land mammals were being mistreated through "inhumane" practices.
The bullhooks, two- to three-foot rods with a pointed end, are used to guide and control the animals, both in the ring and in their living quarters. The chains are placed on the animals' legs when they are not performing and when traveling by train.
The circus argues the elephants are not harmed by such treatment, and the practices are done for their protection and the safety of the animals, spectators and circus personnel.
"We are gratified with today's decision because it is a victory over those whose radical agenda, if adopted, could lead to banning animals from circuses, zoos and wildlife parks," said Kenneth Feld, chief executive of Feld Entertainment. "We will continue to focus on providing quality care to our elephants and delivering unique family entertainment options to the public."
John Sullivan, a Washington attorney representing the circus, said the claims by the animal rights groups have been thoroughly dismissed as "manufactured litigation." He cited the testimony of Tom Rider, the circus employee who helped bring the initial suit, which a federal judge had earlier concluded was "essentially a paid plaintiff and fact witness who lacked credibility."
Writing for the appeals court Friday, Judge David Tatel said Rider "complained publicly about the elephants' mistreatment only after he was paid by activists to do so." Rider had received $190,000 over eight years from the organizations suing the circus, noted the court.
API claimed its public education programs were hampered by the impression the elephants were content and unharmed by the control methods, causing them to expend valuable financial resources. The challenge for the plaintiffs was to show their advocacy efforts suffered injury. Their setback Friday in this important "gateway" issue means the case cannot proceed to trial. The animal protection groups have the option of asking the Supreme Court to review their case.
"It is a disappointing decision because I thought we had shown enough for organizational injury with respect to reallocation of resources and should have had a chance to prove that Feld's actions clearly violate the Endangered Species Act," said Carter Phillips, the attorney for the animal rights groups. "The court found our proof just a little short on causation."
Feld Entertainment has a pending civil racketeering lawsuit of its own, alleging the animal rights groups are engaged in bribery, money laundering and wire fraud.
The elephant appeal comes on the heels of a separate lawsuit filed this week against SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, operators of several marine animal theme parks and oceanariums.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has made a novel legal claim, alleging the constitutional rights of killer whales themselves are being violated by their captivity and performances. The group is suing on behalf of five individual sea mammals, claiming they are being held in slavery or involuntary servitude, in violation of the 13th Amendment.
The elephants case is ASPCA v. Feld Entertainment (10-7007).
By Bill Mears, CNN
updated 4:35 PM EST, Fri October 28, 2011
Washington (CNN) -- A lawsuit claiming systematic abuse and exploitation of elephants by the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus was dismissed Friday by a federal appeals court.
The three-judge panel concluded two animal protection groups and a former employee with Feld Entertainment Inc., owners of the circus, did not have "standing" -- or authority -- to bring the lawsuit, since they could not establish actual legal "injury" to themselves. The judges also questioned the credibility of the one-time circus worker, the main witness in the litigation.
The key question was whether the standard, open use of metal restraining and control devices improperly created the illusion, especially among children, they did no physical or psychological damage to the animals.
"Nothing in the record supports the key link in (the plaintiffs) argument, namely that Feld's use of bullhooks and chains fosters a public impression that these practices are harmless."
Vienna, Virginia-based Feld owns the country's largest collection of Asian elephants, an endangered species. They travel and perform as part of the multi-act circus. Most are kept at a Florida sanctuary in the off-season.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Animal Protection Institute (API) joined forces, alleging Ringling Brothers harms the animals in violation of the Endangered Species Act. They were assisted by a former trainer -- called a "barn helper" in court records -- who testified the world's largest land mammals were being mistreated through "inhumane" practices.
The bullhooks, two- to three-foot rods with a pointed end, are used to guide and control the animals, both in the ring and in their living quarters. The chains are placed on the animals' legs when they are not performing and when traveling by train.
The circus argues the elephants are not harmed by such treatment, and the practices are done for their protection and the safety of the animals, spectators and circus personnel.
"We are gratified with today's decision because it is a victory over those whose radical agenda, if adopted, could lead to banning animals from circuses, zoos and wildlife parks," said Kenneth Feld, chief executive of Feld Entertainment. "We will continue to focus on providing quality care to our elephants and delivering unique family entertainment options to the public."
John Sullivan, a Washington attorney representing the circus, said the claims by the animal rights groups have been thoroughly dismissed as "manufactured litigation." He cited the testimony of Tom Rider, the circus employee who helped bring the initial suit, which a federal judge had earlier concluded was "essentially a paid plaintiff and fact witness who lacked credibility."
Writing for the appeals court Friday, Judge David Tatel said Rider "complained publicly about the elephants' mistreatment only after he was paid by activists to do so." Rider had received $190,000 over eight years from the organizations suing the circus, noted the court.
API claimed its public education programs were hampered by the impression the elephants were content and unharmed by the control methods, causing them to expend valuable financial resources. The challenge for the plaintiffs was to show their advocacy efforts suffered injury. Their setback Friday in this important "gateway" issue means the case cannot proceed to trial. The animal protection groups have the option of asking the Supreme Court to review their case.
"It is a disappointing decision because I thought we had shown enough for organizational injury with respect to reallocation of resources and should have had a chance to prove that Feld's actions clearly violate the Endangered Species Act," said Carter Phillips, the attorney for the animal rights groups. "The court found our proof just a little short on causation."
Feld Entertainment has a pending civil racketeering lawsuit of its own, alleging the animal rights groups are engaged in bribery, money laundering and wire fraud.
The elephant appeal comes on the heels of a separate lawsuit filed this week against SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, operators of several marine animal theme parks and oceanariums.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has made a novel legal claim, alleging the constitutional rights of killer whales themselves are being violated by their captivity and performances. The group is suing on behalf of five individual sea mammals, claiming they are being held in slavery or involuntary servitude, in violation of the 13th Amendment.
The elephants case is ASPCA v. Feld Entertainment (10-7007).
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Flatcar # 56
The History of Flatcar # 56
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 23.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Greater Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth. Bernardi Greater Shows bought new 72’ Warrens in 1926/1927. World of Mirth then ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936. The Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell owned Cole Bros. Circus ordered six new Warrens in 1937. They also bought three from the Sam Gumpertz era of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Other shows that were known to have sold the train cars that eventully ended up on Cole Bros. Circus included S.W. Brundage Shows, Dodson Shows, and 101 Ranch which had their cars come from the defunct King Bros., Gentry Bros. and 1929 Cole Bros. World Toured Circus.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted Yellow with Green letters on one side and titled. Gentry Bros. Famous Shows United. On the other side the car was Yellow with Silver Letters and a Maroon Outline titled W.C. Coup United Monster Shows.
This car was repainted and re-lettered in 1997. It was painted Silver with red Letters and titled Sparks Circus.
It is stored outside the Train sheds of the Circus World Museum on a side track as of Sept. 2007.
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 23.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Greater Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth. Bernardi Greater Shows bought new 72’ Warrens in 1926/1927. World of Mirth then ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936. The Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell owned Cole Bros. Circus ordered six new Warrens in 1937. They also bought three from the Sam Gumpertz era of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Other shows that were known to have sold the train cars that eventully ended up on Cole Bros. Circus included S.W. Brundage Shows, Dodson Shows, and 101 Ranch which had their cars come from the defunct King Bros., Gentry Bros. and 1929 Cole Bros. World Toured Circus.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted Yellow with Green letters on one side and titled. Gentry Bros. Famous Shows United. On the other side the car was Yellow with Silver Letters and a Maroon Outline titled W.C. Coup United Monster Shows.
This car was repainted and re-lettered in 1997. It was painted Silver with red Letters and titled Sparks Circus.
It is stored outside the Train sheds of the Circus World Museum on a side track as of Sept. 2007.
Flatcar # 56
This is a great Circus World Museum Postcard. According to the loading lists, this should have been photogrpahed in 1985. Flatcar # 56 is to the very left. This is the lettering on the other side of the car.
Flatcar # 56
I took this in 2006. Note the old re-created cottage cages they had birds in during the late 1960's in the background.
Flatcar # 57
The History of Flatcar # 57
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 24.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Greater Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth. Bernardi Greater Shows bought new 72’ Warrens in 1926/1927. World of Mirth then ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936. The Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell owned Cole Bros. Circus ordered six new Warrens in 1937. They also bought three from the Sam Gumpertz era of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Other shows that were known to have sold the train cars that eventully ended up on Cole Bros. Circus included S.W. Brundage Shows, Dodson Shows, and 101 Ranch which had their cars come from the defunct King Bros., Gentry Bros. and 1929 Cole Bros. World Toured Circus.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted Orange with Purple letters, a White Outline and Black Shading. It was titled 101 Ranch Real Wild West. The other side was Orange Body with Red Lettering and White Shading. It was lettered Robbins Bros. 3 Ring Circus with Hoot Gibson, the Screen’s Most Popular Star.
In 1990, the car was repainted with a Silver base and an orange body inside the outer steel frame of the Gunwales with Black lettering titled W.W. Cole’s Great New York & New Orleans Zoological Exposition. This paint scheme remained as such through 1996.
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 24.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Greater Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth. Bernardi Greater Shows bought new 72’ Warrens in 1926/1927. World of Mirth then ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936. The Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell owned Cole Bros. Circus ordered six new Warrens in 1937. They also bought three from the Sam Gumpertz era of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Other shows that were known to have sold the train cars that eventully ended up on Cole Bros. Circus included S.W. Brundage Shows, Dodson Shows, and 101 Ranch which had their cars come from the defunct King Bros., Gentry Bros. and 1929 Cole Bros. World Toured Circus.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted Orange with Purple letters, a White Outline and Black Shading. It was titled 101 Ranch Real Wild West. The other side was Orange Body with Red Lettering and White Shading. It was lettered Robbins Bros. 3 Ring Circus with Hoot Gibson, the Screen’s Most Popular Star.
In 1990, the car was repainted with a Silver base and an orange body inside the outer steel frame of the Gunwales with Black lettering titled W.W. Cole’s Great New York & New Orleans Zoological Exposition. This paint scheme remained as such through 1996.
Note: I don't have a picture of this paint scheme. If anyone has one and would like to share it with me please email me. Bob Cline - fivetiger@shtc.net
The car was then repainted again in 1997. It was a Blue car with White letters and a Bright Red Outline titled Col. Tim McCoy’s Wild West. An Indian Headdress in red and Blue was in a White circle at each end of the car also. This paint scheme remained through the last Milwaukee parade in 2003. It is stored inside the Train sheds of the Circus World Mu
Flatcar # 57
Here is the car while making its tour on the World of Mirth shows. The photo is part of the Dan McGinnis collection.
Flatcar # 57
This is a Bill Myer photo from 1971 when there was a small accident in switching cars around in Baraboo.
Flatcar # 57
This picture clearly shows the truss type support used on the car. The photo was taken by Carter Seigling in 1988.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Flatcar # 58
The History of Flatcar # 58
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 18.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Greater Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth. Bernardi Greater Shows bought new 72’ Warrens in 1926/1927. World of Mirth then ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936. The Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell owned Cole Bros. Circus ordered six new Warrens in 1937. They also bought three from the Sam Gumpertz era of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Other shows that were known to have sold the train cars that eventully ended up on Cole Bros. Circus included S.W. Brundage Shows, Dodson Shows, and 101 Ranch which had their cars come from the defunct King Bros., Gentry Bros. and 1929 Cole Bros. World Toured Circus.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted Red with White letters and a Light Blue Shadow on one side titled Burr Robbins New Consolidated Railroad Shows. The other side was Red with White lettering titled Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Shows. This color scheme remained intact through 1995.
In 1996 the car was repainted Orange with White letters and a Burgandy Outline titled Sells Floto Circus.
This flatcar was used in every time a Parade train was assembled from the first time in 1965 to the last time in 2003.
As of Sept. 2007, it resided on a spur track at the Train sheds west of the CWM.
This flatcar is a 72 ft. Warren design flat. It was purchased from World of Mirth Shows on September 21, 1964 by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. While on the World of Mirth Shows it was numbered # 18.
The actual origin of the car is only speculation. Built by the Warren Tank Car Co. sometime between 1928 and 1937, it has been documented that the Bernardi Greater Shows later changed the name to World of Mirth. Bernardi Greater Shows bought new 72’ Warrens in 1926/1927. World of Mirth then ordered five new 72’ Warrens in 1936. The Jess Adkins and Zack Terrell owned Cole Bros. Circus ordered six new Warrens in 1937. They also bought three from the Sam Gumpertz era of the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Other shows that were known to have sold the train cars that eventully ended up on Cole Bros. Circus included S.W. Brundage Shows, Dodson Shows, and 101 Ranch which had their cars come from the defunct King Bros., Gentry Bros. and 1929 Cole Bros. World Toured Circus.
Upon it’s acquisition for the Circus Train, the car was refurbished and repainted Red with White letters and a Light Blue Shadow on one side titled Burr Robbins New Consolidated Railroad Shows. The other side was Red with White lettering titled Ringling Bros. World’s Greatest Shows. This color scheme remained intact through 1995.
In 1996 the car was repainted Orange with White letters and a Burgandy Outline titled Sells Floto Circus.
This flatcar was used in every time a Parade train was assembled from the first time in 1965 to the last time in 2003.
As of Sept. 2007, it resided on a spur track at the Train sheds west of the CWM.
Flatcar # 58
Here is the side that was apparently the most photographed. This is a Bill Myer photo from 1971.Flatcar # 58
This is hard to see I know. This is a Bill Myer photo from 1971. This shows the lettering on the other side.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Flatcar # 59
The History of Flatcar # 59
This flatcar is of a Warren design. Upon it’s acquisition by the Circus World Museum on September 21, 1964 by way of a purchase from World of Mirth Shows by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. this flatcar was used in most parades over the years.
While its origin is unclear, it was numbered 66 while on the World of Mirth Shows. World of Mirth Shows bought some of the Sparks Circus flatcars through Sam Gumpertz in February of 1937.
This is documented in the Joseph Bradbury article about the Downie Bros. Circus under the ownership of Charlie Sparks in the Bandwagon, page 22 of the July / August 1976 issue.
The Bob Goldsack book about the World of Mirth claims that World of Mirth bought additional rail equipment from the Clyde Beatty Circus and the Sells-Floto Circus in 1938 as well as two stock cars from the defunct Tim McCoy Show.
Once restored for the Circus World Museum train, this car was painted silver. On one side in Green letters was the show title “Buffalo Bill’s Wild West and Pawnee Bill’s Great Far East Show”. On the other side was the show title of “The Great Adam Forepaugh and Sells Bros. United Shows” painted in Blue letters with a White shadow and a light blue outline. This paint scheme existed from 1965 until at least 1986.
At some point in time, that I have not been able to document yet, this car was repainted a silver color with a red band inside the steel structural framework and lettered in Yellow, “Adam Forepaugh and Sells Bros. Circus” on both sides of the car. This color scheme was used from a questioned year of 1987 (???) to definitely 1996.
In 1997 the car was repainted again. This time the car was painted an off orange color. It was lettered in Red Letters with a Green shadow with the show title “Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Circus”. This color scheme was used through 2003, the last Great Circus Parade to Milwaukee.
This flatcar is of a Warren design. Upon it’s acquisition by the Circus World Museum on September 21, 1964 by way of a purchase from World of Mirth Shows by the Joseph Schlitz Brewing Co. this flatcar was used in most parades over the years.
While its origin is unclear, it was numbered 66 while on the World of Mirth Shows. World of Mirth Shows bought some of the Sparks Circus flatcars through Sam Gumpertz in February of 1937.
This is documented in the Joseph Bradbury article about the Downie Bros. Circus under the ownership of Charlie Sparks in the Bandwagon, page 22 of the July / August 1976 issue.
The Bob Goldsack book about the World of Mirth claims that World of Mirth bought additional rail equipment from the Clyde Beatty Circus and the Sells-Floto Circus in 1938 as well as two stock cars from the defunct Tim McCoy Show.
Once restored for the Circus World Museum train, this car was painted silver. On one side in Green letters was the show title “Buffalo Bill’s Wild West and Pawnee Bill’s Great Far East Show”. On the other side was the show title of “The Great Adam Forepaugh and Sells Bros. United Shows” painted in Blue letters with a White shadow and a light blue outline. This paint scheme existed from 1965 until at least 1986.
At some point in time, that I have not been able to document yet, this car was repainted a silver color with a red band inside the steel structural framework and lettered in Yellow, “Adam Forepaugh and Sells Bros. Circus” on both sides of the car. This color scheme was used from a questioned year of 1987 (???) to definitely 1996.
In 1997 the car was repainted again. This time the car was painted an off orange color. It was lettered in Red Letters with a Green shadow with the show title “Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Combined Circus”. This color scheme was used through 2003, the last Great Circus Parade to Milwaukee.
The car now rests on a track near the CWM car barns.
Flatcar # 59
This is the flatcar while on World of Mirth that later became known as # 59 on the CWM train. This photo is from the Dan McGinnis collection.Flatcar # 59
Here was #59 in the early days. This photo was taken by Bill Myers in 1969.
Does anyone have a color photo of this lettering they could share with me?
Bob Cline fivetiger@shtc.net
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