CIRCUS HISTORY - Revision history

Randylyon at 23:01, 27 September 2017

2017-09-27T23:01:31Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:01, 27 September 2017
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	for such license for the use and benefit of		for such license for the use and benefit of
	the school fund.		the school fund.

			In 1900 Ringling Brothers passed through Dubuque, but did not perform. The show grounds was just outside of town and both the city and county demanded license fees--the city for the parade and the county for the show. Each cost $200. The circus officials claimed this was twice what they were normally charged. (6)

	In August of 1910 the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors took "a long run and jump at the traveling circus organization which may be compelled to show outside the limits of towns or cities for more than a day." (6) In addition to requiring a permit from the county auditor, the board determined: (7)		In August of 1910 the Dubuque County Board of Supervisors took "a long run and jump at the traveling circus organization which may be compelled to show outside the limits of towns or cities for more than a day." (7) In addition to requiring a permit from the county auditor, the board determined: (8)

	When the general and reserved seat admission fee charged		When the general and reserved seat admission fee charged
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	the continuance of such show, circus or exhibition.		the continuance of such show, circus or exhibition.

	The newspaper writers of 1910 must not have been aware of the history in Cedar Rapids. In 1885 the city was charging $300 for a circus permit with many in the community thinking it should be lowered to $250. (8)		The newspaper writers of 1910 must not have been aware of the history in Cedar Rapids. In 1885 the city was charging $300 for a circus permit with many in the community thinking it should be lowered to $250. (9)

	The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor in comparison to other expenses.. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the ''Dubuque Herald''. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local bill posters months ahead of the show. (9)		The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor in comparison to other expenses.. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the ''Dubuque Herald''. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local bill posters months ahead of the show. (10)

	The first knowledge the public had of the coming show was the arrival of the first of four advertising cars each equipped as a traveling hotel with dining and sleeping compartments. Each car had a manager, bill posting superintendent, and staff of from fifteen to twenty-five men. Lockers held twenty tons of printed paper which had to be renewed every two weeks. Under the cars were bins with a dozen barrels of flour for making paste. (10)		The first knowledge the public had of the coming show was the arrival of the first of four advertising cars each equipped as a traveling hotel with dining and sleeping compartments. Each car had a manager, bill posting superintendent, and staff of from fifteen to twenty-five men. Lockers held twenty tons of printed paper which had to be renewed every two weeks. Under the cars were bins with a dozen barrels of flour for making paste. (11)

	Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (11)		Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (12)

	The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (12)		The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (13)

	last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the		last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
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	and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your		and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your
	wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn		wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn
	and do all this fighting alone. (13)		and do all this fighting alone. (14)

	As the size of circuses grew, the space to hold them became an increasing problem. As early as 1886, an editorial in ''The Herald'' reminded readers that only twenty-five years before available space was everywhere. Circus tents could be posted at the rear of the [[KEY CITY HOUSE]], on lots that were now covered by Fischer's ice house or the Milwaukee and St. Paul passenger depot. By 1886 those attending the circus had to travel three miles from the center of town. (14) In 1952 an editorial in the Telegraph Herald bemoaned the situation that		As the size of circuses grew, the space to hold them became an increasing problem. As early as 1886, an editorial in ''The Herald'' reminded readers that only twenty-five years before available space was everywhere. Circus tents could be posted at the rear of the [[KEY CITY HOUSE]], on lots that were now covered by Fischer's ice house or the Milwaukee and St. Paul passenger depot. By 1886 those attending the circus had to travel three miles from the center of town. (15) In 1952 an editorial in the Telegraph Herald bemoaned the situation that

	With a single highway available, the Melody Mill		With a single highway available, the Melody Mill
	site is not ideal for a "big top." But where else		site is not ideal for a "big top." But where else
	around here could you stage such an event. (15)		around here could you stage such an event. (16)


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	5. Ibid.		5. Ibid.

	6. "~~Traveling Show License Raised~~," ''Dubuque ~~Telegraph-~~Herald'', ~~August 3~~, ~~1910~~, p. 3		6. "Ringlings Barred Out," ''The Dubuque Herald'', July 11, 1900, p. 5

	7. ~~Ibid~~.		7. "Traveling Show License Raised," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', August 3, 1910, p. 3

	8. ~~Untitled article~~. ~~''Dubuque Daily Herald'', May 12, 1885, p. 4~~		8. Ibid.

	9. ~~"What It Costs to Bill a Circus,"~~ ''Dubuque ~~Telegraph-~~Herald'', ~~August 8~~, ~~1907~~, p. 21		9. Untitled article. ''Dubuque Daily Herald'', May 12, 1885, p. 4

	10. ~~Ibid~~.		10. "What It Costs to Bill a Circus," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', August 8, 1907, p. 21

	11. Ibid.		11. Ibid.

	12. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p. 12		12. Ibid.

			13. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p. 12

	13. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, p. 4		14. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, p. 4

	14. "Local News in Brief," ''The Herald'', September 8, 1886, p. 7		15. "Local News in Brief," ''The Herald'', September 8, 1886, p. 7

	15. "Circus Comes to Town," ''The Telegraph Herald'', September 5, 1952, p. 6		16. "Circus Comes to Town," ''The Telegraph Herald'', September 5, 1952, p. 6


	[[Category: Circus]]		[[Category: Circus]]

Randylyon at 19:18, 24 August 2017

2017-08-24T19:18:27Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:18, 24 August 2017
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	and do all this fighting alone. (13)		and do all this fighting alone. (13)

	As the size of circuses grew, the space to hold them became an increasing problem. As early as 1886, an editorial in ''The Herald'' reminded readers that only twenty-five years before available space was everywhere. Circus tents could be posted at the rear of the [[KEY CITY HOUSE]], on lots that were now covered by Fischer's ice house or the Milwaukee and St. Paul passenger depot. By 1886 those attending the circus had to travel three miles from the center of town. (14) ~~It must be assumed~~, ~~however, that~~ the ~~business interests of the community found each of these inconveniences another evidence of progress~~.		As the size of circuses grew, the space to hold them became an increasing problem. As early as 1886, an editorial in ''The Herald'' reminded readers that only twenty-five years before available space was everywhere. Circus tents could be posted at the rear of the [[KEY CITY HOUSE]], on lots that were now covered by Fischer's ice house or the Milwaukee and St. Paul passenger depot. By 1886 those attending the circus had to travel three miles from the center of town. (14) In 1952 an editorial in the Telegraph Herald bemoaned the situation that

			With a single highway available, the Melody Mill
			site is not ideal for a "big top." But where else
			around here could you stage such an event. (15)



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	14. "Local News in Brief," ''The Herald'', September 8, 1886, p. 7		14. "Local News in Brief," ''The Herald'', September 8, 1886, p. 7

			15. "Circus Comes to Town," ''The Telegraph Herald'', September 5, 1952, p. 6


	[[Category: Circus]]		[[Category: Circus]]

Randylyon at 04:15, 8 August 2017

2017-08-08T04:15:02Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:15, 8 August 2017
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	~~Being written~~		CIRCUS HISTORY. Newspaper accounts of "the circus coming to town" often mimic each other in the accounts of the twenty-plus car railroad trains bringing equipment, animals, and performers to town, the huge crowds eager to see the parade, and the marvelous acts. Equally worth remembering are the other facts that were not so often repeated over the years and therefore are prone to be forgotten.

	CIRCUS HISTORY. Newspaper accounts of "the circus coming to town" often mimic each other in the accounts of the twenty-plus car railroad trains bringing equipment, animals, and performers to town, the huge crowds eager to see the parade, and the marvelous acts. Equally worth remembering are the other facts that were not so often repeated over the years and therefore are prone to be forgotten. This will be the focus of this entry.		In the history of Dubuque, there has not been found to be an instance when two circuses were scheduled into town on one occasion. This meant that Dubuque did not suffer from "circus wars" that occurred when two shows were scheduled for the same day. The "war" was carried out at the advertising level. Post hangers for one circus found the next day that all their hard work was obscured by new posters hung by employees of the other circus overnight. In some instances, each circus would try to claim just part of town. This seldom worked. The "war" was not so much to ensure crowded audiences as to show strength to competitors. In 1902 a "circus war" was conducted by Ringling Brothers and the Wallace shows in Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Waterloo, and Oskaloosa. (1)

	In the history of Dubuque, there has not been found to be an instance when two circuses were scheduled into town on one occasion. This meant that Dubuque did not suffer from "circus wars" that occurred when two shows were scheduled for the same day. The "war" was carried out at the advertising level. Post hangers for one circus ~~would find~~ the next day that all their hard work was obscured by new posters hung by employees of the other circus overnight. In some instances, each circus would try to claim just part of town. This seldom worked. The "war" was not so much to ensure crowded audiences as to show strength to competitors. In 1902 a "circus" ~~was~~ was conducted by Ringling Brothers and the Wallace shows in Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Waterloo, and Oskaloosa. (1)

	The growth of the [[RINGLING BROTHERS' CIRCUS]] might never had occurred without the help of Dubuque's neighbors to the southeast in Cascade. In 1879 the Ringling circus was small, owned by the five Ringling brothers, and was financially broke in Onslow, Iowa. Making matters worse, a tornado had ripped the circus tent to shreds. Mustering all its resources, the crew moved fifteen miles in horse-drawn wagons to Monticello hoping for a good crowd. The fee required by the town was more than the show could afford. Going ahead alone, Al Ringling headed for Cascade, a town known for being 'a good show town.'(2)		The growth of the [[RINGLING BROTHERS' CIRCUS]] might never had occurred without the help of Dubuque's neighbors to the southeast in Cascade. In 1879 the Ringling circus was small, owned by the five Ringling brothers, and was financially broke in Onslow, Iowa. Making matters worse, a tornado had ripped the circus tent to shreds. Mustering all its resources, the crew moved fifteen miles in horse-drawn wagons to Monticello hoping for a good crowd. The fee required by the town was more than the show could afford. Going ahead alone, Al Ringling headed for Cascade, a town known for being 'a good show town.'(2)
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	Isaac Baldwin, the mayor and publisher of the newspapers, and R. J. McVay, a private banker, came to the rescue. Baldwin printed advertising handbills on credit and waived the show permit required. McVay loaned Ringling the money to move the show to Casacde--a project that took several days. (3)		Isaac Baldwin, the mayor and publisher of the newspapers, and R. J. McVay, a private banker, came to the rescue. Baldwin printed advertising handbills on credit and waived the show permit required. McVay loaned Ringling the money to move the show to Casacde--a project that took several days. (3)

	With a patched tent, the Ringling circus played to packed houses making the show financially sound. Moving on and adding talent, the Ringling Circus was soon traveling the nation by rail car. Since Cascade, however, was only linked to the outside world by narrow-gauge track the circus was never able to return to the scene of its resurrection. (4)		With a patched tent, the Ringling circus played to packed houses making the show financially sound. Moving on and adding talent, the Ringling Circus was soon traveling the nation by rail car. Since Cascade, however, was only linked to the outside world by narrow-gauge track, the circus was never able to return to the scene of its resurrection. (4)

	Some time later, the Ringling Circus was booked into Monticello and three Cascade residents traveled to see it. Al Ringling, remembering the great help Cascade had given his crew, allowed the three to enter free-of-charge. During the performance, Ringling told the crowd of the history in Cascade and vowed that anyone able to prove they were from Cascade would be admitted free 'wherever we are.' (5)		Some time later, the Ringling Circus was booked into Monticello and three Cascade residents traveled to see it. Al Ringling, remembering the great help Cascade had given his crew, allowed the three to enter free-of-charge. During the performance, Ringling told the crowd of the history in Cascade and vowed that anyone able to prove they were from Cascade would be admitted free 'wherever we are.' (5)

	The idea of requiring a permit for an exhibition could be traced to at least 1863. In that year, it appeared the amount of the fee could be set by the mayor. In May of that year, [[CASTELLO'S AND VAN VLECK'S MAMMOTH CIRCUS]] appeared in Dubuque. On May 5, ''Dubuque Herald'' writers commented on the fine condition of the horses and wagons, the crowded pavilion during the show, and quality of the acts. In a separate article, entitled "Unfair," the writers noted that the circus in its two days in Dubuque probably spent one thousand dollars on supplies. It was then questioned why the circus had to pay $75 for a permit when similar events were usually charged $25. The writers suggested that if the mayor could not be convinced to waive the fee, the charge should be no more than that charged similar businesses.		The idea of requiring a permit for an exhibition could be traced to at least 1863. In that year, it appeared the amount of the fee could be set by the mayor. In May of that year, [[CASTELLO'S AND VAN VLECK'S MAMMOTH CIRCUS]] appeared in Dubuque. On May 5, ''Dubuque Herald'' writers commented on the fine condition of the horses and wagons, the crowded pavilion during the show, and quality of the acts. In a separate article, entitled "Unfair," the writers noted that the circus in its two days in Dubuque had probably spent one thousand dollars on supplies. It was then questioned why the circus had to pay $75 for a permit when similar events were usually charged $25. The writers suggested that if the mayor could not be convinced to waive the fee, the charge should be no more than that charged similar businesses.

	The determination of permit fee amount ~~which caused so much problem for the Ringling circus~~ came about through a state law passed in 1876. It stated:		The determination of permit fee amount came about through a state law passed in 1876. It stated:

	An Act to regulate circuses and other public shows.		An Act to regulate circuses and other public shows.
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	The newspaper writers of 1910 must not have been aware of the history in Cedar Rapids. In 1885 the city was charging $300 for a circus permit with many in the community thinking it should be lowered to $250. (8)		The newspaper writers of 1910 must not have been aware of the history in Cedar Rapids. In 1885 the city was charging $300 for a circus permit with many in the community thinking it should be lowered to $250. (8)

	As the size of circuses grew, the space to hold them became an increasing problem. As early as 1886, an editorial in ''The Herald'' reminded readers that only twenty-five years before available space was everywhere. Circus tents could be posted at the rear of the [[KEY CITY HOUSE]], on lots that were now covered by Fischer's ice house or the Milwaukee and St. Paul passenger depot. By 1886 those attending the circus had to travel three miles from the center of town. (9) It must be assumed, however, that the business interests of the community found each of these inconveniences another evidence of progress.

	The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor to ~~a large company~~. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the ''Dubuque Herald''. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local ~~billposters~~ months ahead of the show. (10)		The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor in comparison to other expenses.. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the ''Dubuque Herald''. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local bill posters months ahead of the show. (9)

	The first knowledge the public had of the coming show was the arrival of the first of four advertising cars each equipped as a traveling hotel with dining and sleeping compartments. Each car had a manager, bill posting superintendent, and staff of from fifteen to twenty-five men. Lockers held twenty tons of printed paper which had to be renewed every two weeks. Under the cars were bins with a dozen barrels of flour for making paste. (11)		The first knowledge the public had of the coming show was the arrival of the first of four advertising cars each equipped as a traveling hotel with dining and sleeping compartments. Each car had a manager, bill posting superintendent, and staff of from fifteen to twenty-five men. Lockers held twenty tons of printed paper which had to be renewed every two weeks. Under the cars were bins with a dozen barrels of flour for making paste. (10)

	Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (12)		Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (11)

	The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (13)		The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (12)

	last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the		last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
Line 89:		Line 85:
	and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your		and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your
	wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn		wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn
	and do all this fighting alone. (14)		and do all this fighting alone. (13)

			As the size of circuses grew, the space to hold them became an increasing problem. As early as 1886, an editorial in ''The Herald'' reminded readers that only twenty-five years before available space was everywhere. Circus tents could be posted at the rear of the [[KEY CITY HOUSE]], on lots that were now covered by Fischer's ice house or the Milwaukee and St. Paul passenger depot. By 1886 those attending the circus had to travel three miles from the center of town. (14) It must be assumed, however, that the business interests of the community found each of these inconveniences another evidence of progress.



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	8. Untitled article. ''Dubuque Daily Herald'', May 12, 1885, p. 4		8. Untitled article. ''Dubuque Daily Herald'', May 12, 1885, p. 4

	9. "~~Local News in Brief~~," ''~~The~~ Herald'', ~~September~~ 8, ~~1886~~, p. 7		9. "What It Costs to Bill a Circus," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', August 8, 1907, p. 21

	10. ~~"What It Costs to Bill a Circus," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', August 8, 1907, p~~. 21		10. Ibid.

	11. Ibid.		11. Ibid.

	12. ~~Ibid~~.		12. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p. 12

			13. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, p. 4

	13. "~~Alas the Circus Banner~~," ''~~Dubuque Telegraph-~~Herald'', ~~May 19~~, ~~1911~~, p. 12		14. "Local News in Brief," ''The Herald'', September 8, 1886, p. 7

	~~14. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, p. 4~~

	[[Category: Circus]]		[[Category: Circus]]

Randylyon at 04:04, 8 August 2017

2017-08-08T04:04:44Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:04, 8 August 2017
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	The newspaper writers of 1910 must not have been aware of the history in Cedar Rapids. In 1885 the city was charging $300 for a circus permit with many in the community thinking it should be lowered to $250. (8)		The newspaper writers of 1910 must not have been aware of the history in Cedar Rapids. In 1885 the city was charging $300 for a circus permit with many in the community thinking it should be lowered to $250. (8)

			As the size of circuses grew, the space to hold them became an increasing problem. As early as 1886, an editorial in ''The Herald'' reminded readers that only twenty-five years before available space was everywhere. Circus tents could be posted at the rear of the [[KEY CITY HOUSE]], on lots that were now covered by Fischer's ice house or the Milwaukee and St. Paul passenger depot. By 1886 those attending the circus had to travel three miles from the center of town. (9) It must be assumed, however, that the business interests of the community found each of these inconveniences another evidence of progress.

	The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor to a large company. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the Dubuque Herald. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local billposters months ahead of the show. (9)		The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor to a large company. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the ''Dubuque Herald''. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local billposters months ahead of the show. (10)

	The first knowledge the public had of the coming show was the arrival of the first of four advertising cars each equipped as a traveling hotel with dining and sleeping compartments. Each car had a manager, ~~billposting~~ superintendent, and staff of from fifteen to twenty-five men. Lockers held twenty tons of printed paper which had to be renewed every two weeks. Under the cars were bins with a dozen barrels of flour for making paste. (10)		The first knowledge the public had of the coming show was the arrival of the first of four advertising cars each equipped as a traveling hotel with dining and sleeping compartments. Each car had a manager, bill posting superintendent, and staff of from fifteen to twenty-five men. Lockers held twenty tons of printed paper which had to be renewed every two weeks. Under the cars were bins with a dozen barrels of flour for making paste. (11)

	Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (11)		Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (12)

	The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (12)		The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (13)

	last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the		last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
Line 87:		Line 89:
	and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your		and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your
	wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn		wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn
	and do all this fighting alone. (13)		and do all this fighting alone. (14)


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	8. Untitled article. ''Dubuque Daily Herald'', May 12, 1885, p. 4		8. Untitled article. ''Dubuque Daily Herald'', May 12, 1885, p. 4

	9. "~~What It Costs to Bill a Circus~~," ''~~Dubuque Telegraph-~~Herald'', ~~August~~ 8, ~~1907~~, p. 21		9. "Local News in Brief," ''The Herald'', September 8, 1886, p. 7

	10. ~~Ibid~~.		10. "What It Costs to Bill a Circus," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', August 8, 1907, p. 21

	11. Ibid.		11. Ibid.

	12. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p. 12		12. Ibid.

			13. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p. 12

			14. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, p. 4

	~~13. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, 4~~		[[Category: Circus]]

Randylyon at 01:06, 7 August 2017

2017-08-07T01:06:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 01:06, 7 August 2017
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	Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (11)		Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (11)

	The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (11)		The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (12)

	last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the		last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
Line 87:		Line 87:
	and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your		and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your
	wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn		wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn
	and do all this fighting alone. (12)		and do all this fighting alone. (13)


Line 120:		Line 120:
	11. Ibid.		11. Ibid.

	12. "~~Alas12~~ the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p.		12. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p. 12

	13. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, 4		13. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, 4

Randylyon at 01:03, 7 August 2017

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	Being written		Being written

	CIRCUS HISTORY. Newspaper accounts of "the circus coming to town" often mimic each other in the accounts of the twenty-plus car railroad trains bringing equipment, animals, and performers to town, the huge crowds eager to see the parade, and the marvelous acts. Equally worth remembering are the other facts that were not so often repeated over the years and therefore are prone to be forgotten. This will be the focus of this entry. (1)		CIRCUS HISTORY. Newspaper accounts of "the circus coming to town" often mimic each other in the accounts of the twenty-plus car railroad trains bringing equipment, animals, and performers to town, the huge crowds eager to see the parade, and the marvelous acts. Equally worth remembering are the other facts that were not so often repeated over the years and therefore are prone to be forgotten. This will be the focus of this entry.

			In the history of Dubuque, there has not been found to be an instance when two circuses were scheduled into town on one occasion. This meant that Dubuque did not suffer from "circus wars" that occurred when two shows were scheduled for the same day. The "war" was carried out at the advertising level. Post hangers for one circus would find the next day that all their hard work was obscured by new posters hung by employees of the other circus overnight. In some instances, each circus would try to claim just part of town. This seldom worked. The "war" was not so much to ensure crowded audiences as to show strength to competitors. In 1902 a "circus" was was conducted by Ringling Brothers and the Wallace shows in Cedar Rapids, Des Moines, Waterloo, and Oskaloosa. (1)

	The growth of the [[RINGLING BROTHERS' CIRCUS]] might never had occurred without the help of Dubuque's neighbors to the southeast in Cascade. In 1879 the Ringling circus was small, owned by the five Ringling brothers, and was financially broke in Onslow, Iowa. Making matters worse, a tornado had ripped the circus tent to shreds. Mustering all its resources, the crew moved fifteen miles in horse-drawn wagons to Monticello hoping for a good crowd. The fee required by the town was more than the show could afford. Going ahead alone, Al Ringling headed for Cascade, a town known for being 'a good show town.'(2)		The growth of the [[RINGLING BROTHERS' CIRCUS]] might never had occurred without the help of Dubuque's neighbors to the southeast in Cascade. In 1879 the Ringling circus was small, owned by the five Ringling brothers, and was financially broke in Onslow, Iowa. Making matters worse, a tornado had ripped the circus tent to shreds. Mustering all its resources, the crew moved fifteen miles in horse-drawn wagons to Monticello hoping for a good crowd. The fee required by the town was more than the show could afford. Going ahead alone, Al Ringling headed for Cascade, a town known for being 'a good show town.'(2)
Line 67:		Line 69:
	Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (11)		Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (11)

	The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (12)		The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (11)

	last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the		last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
Line 85:		Line 87:
	and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your		and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your
	wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn		wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn
	and do all this fighting alone. (13)		and do all this fighting alone. (12)


Line 96:		Line 98:
	Source:		Source:

	1. "~~Recall Ringling's Free Invitation to Cascaders~~," ~~''The~~ Telegraph-Herald'', ~~July 18~~, ~~1956~~, p. 1		1. "Circus War Waging Warm," Dubuque Telegraph-Herald, June 29, 1902, p. 2

	2. ~~Ibid~~.		2. "Recall Ringling's Free Invitation to Cascaders," ''The Telegraph-Herald'', July 18, 1956, p. 1

	3. Ibid.		3. Ibid.
Line 118:		Line 120:
	11. Ibid.		11. Ibid.

	12. "~~Alas~~ the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p.		12. "Alas12 the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p.

	13. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, 4		13. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, 4

Randylyon at 02:13, 3 August 2017

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	the the first day and $10.00 for each succeeding day during		the the first day and $10.00 for each succeeding day during
	the continuance of such show, circus or exhibition.		the continuance of such show, circus or exhibition.

			The newspaper writers of 1910 must not have been aware of the history in Cedar Rapids. In 1885 the city was charging $300 for a circus permit with many in the community thinking it should be lowered to $250. (8)

	The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor to a large company. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the Dubuque Herald. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local billposters months ahead of the show. (8)		The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor to a large company. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the Dubuque Herald. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local billposters months ahead of the show. (9)

	The first knowledge the public had of the coming show was the arrival of the first of four advertising cars each equipped as a traveling hotel with dining and sleeping compartments. Each car had a manager, billposting superintendent, and staff of from fifteen to twenty-five men. Lockers held twenty tons of printed paper which had to be renewed every two weeks. Under the cars were bins with a dozen barrels of flour for making paste. (9)		The first knowledge the public had of the coming show was the arrival of the first of four advertising cars each equipped as a traveling hotel with dining and sleeping compartments. Each car had a manager, billposting superintendent, and staff of from fifteen to twenty-five men. Lockers held twenty tons of printed paper which had to be renewed every two weeks. Under the cars were bins with a dozen barrels of flour for making paste. (10)

	Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (10)		Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (11)

	The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (11)		The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (12)

	last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the		last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
Line 83:		Line 85:
	and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your		and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your
	wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn		wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn
	and do all this fighting alone. (12)		and do all this fighting alone. (13)


Line 108:		Line 110:
	7. Ibid.		7. Ibid.

	8. ~~"What It Costs to Bill a Circus,"~~ ''Dubuque ~~Telegraph-~~Herald'', ~~August 8~~, ~~1907~~, p. 21		8. Untitled article. ''Dubuque Daily Herald'', May 12, 1885, p. 4

	9. ~~Ibid~~.		9. "What It Costs to Bill a Circus," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', August 8, 1907, p. 21

	10. Ibid.		10. Ibid.

	11. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p.		11. Ibid.

			12. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p.

	12. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, 4		13. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, 4

Randylyon at 01:31, 3 August 2017

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	last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the		last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
	appearance of a street in a jay town run to seed, so		appearance of a street in a jay town run to seed,
	promiscuous were these circus banners...the ~~average~~		so promiscuous were these circus banners...the
	man looking at a building covered with circus banners		average man looking at a building covered with
	concludes that it can't have much use for rental		circus banners concludes that it can't have much
	purposes and that the man who owns it hasn't very high		use for rental purposes and that the man who owns
	opinion of it or very much respect for appearances.		it hasn't very high opinion of it or very much
			respect for appearances.

			The posting of banners was one concern. Another concern, unexpected due to the eagerness to see the circus, was the increased threat of crime.

			The circus is in town. Look out for house breakers,
			burglars and thieves. Watch well your premises to
			night. Stand guard with a gun, pistol, a bull-dog
			and a broom stock, the latter in the hands of your
			wife or the hired girl. Man was not made to mourn
			and do all this fighting alone. (12)






Line 100:		Line 114:
	10. Ibid.		10. Ibid.

	11. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p. 7		11. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p.

			12. "Caught on the Fly," ''The Daily Herald'', May 31, 1882, 4

Randylyon at 02:24, 1 August 2017

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← Older revision		Revision as of 02:24, 1 August 2017
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	the the first day and $10.00 for each succeeding day during		the the first day and $10.00 for each succeeding day during
	the continuance of such show, circus or exhibition.		the continuance of such show, circus or exhibition.

	The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor to a large company. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the Dubuque Herald. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local billposters months ahead of the show. (8)		The fee could pose a severe problem to a small circus, but was minor to a large company. In 1907 representatives of [[BARNUM AND BAILEY CIRCUS]] spoke with representatives of the Dubuque Herald. At that meeting, the circus representatives reported that it cost their circus $250,000 annually to advertise. This paid for the pictorial displays for billboards and the flyers which were distributed by the millions during the circus season. Posting the pictorial displays required special arrangements with the local billposters months ahead of the show. (8)

Line 67:		Line 67:
	The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (11)		The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (11)

	last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the		last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
	appearance of a street in a jay town run to seed, so		appearance of a street in a jay town run to seed, so
	promiscuous were these circus banners...the average		promiscuous were these circus banners...the average
	man looking at a building covered with circus banners		man looking at a building covered with circus banners
	concludes that it can't have much use for rental		concludes that it can't have much use for rental
	purposes and that the man who owns it hasn't very high		purposes and that the man who owns it hasn't very high
	opinion of it or very much respect for appearances.		opinion of it or very much respect for appearances.

Randylyon at 02:22, 1 August 2017

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	Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (10)		Arriving in town during the evening ensured that work could begin by 6:00 a.m. Wagons supplied by local liverymen received their allotment of pictorial paper and flyers. Each car supplied between five and ten teams supplied to fix circus announcements to every fence and billboard within miles. Aided by newspaper advertisements, the show was then properly announced. (10)

			The posting of "circus banners" was to be done with the consent of the property owners, and those posting the banners often carried tickets to convince the fence owner. The number of banners, however, became an issue with the writers of the ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'' in 1911. While acknowledging that it was the right of a property owners to allow his property to be a scene for advertisements, the writers commented: (11)

			last summer the Main Street of Dubuque had the
			appearance of a street in a jay town run to seed, so
			promiscuous were these circus banners...the average
			man looking at a building covered with circus banners
			concludes that it can't have much use for rental
			purposes and that the man who owns it hasn't very high
			opinion of it or very much respect for appearances.


	---		---
Line 83:		Line 94:
	7. Ibid.		7. Ibid.

	8. "What It Costs to Bill a Circus," Dubuque Telegraph-Herald, August 8, 1907, p. 21		8. "What It Costs to Bill a Circus," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', August 8, 1907, p. 21

	9. Ibid.		9. Ibid.

	10. Ibid.		10. Ibid.

			11. "Alas the Circus Banner," ''Dubuque Telegraph-Herald'', May 19, 1911, p. 7