This list was developed between 2016 and 2017. We are happy to add to it – please contact us.
CIRCUS & PERFORMING SHOW FOLK
Details are focused on events between 1914 and early 1919. Jobs or events after this time fall outside the scope of this project. Some individuals have both legal identity and performance identities. These multiple personas, as well as the difficulty of cross referencing multiple incomplete sources, may have resulted in some duplication.
KEY
SURNAME, Forenames, Rank/Title
Aka: Other names known as
Nationality: If not British/Irish
Born: Date, location
Married: Date location
Died: Date location
Cause O.D.: Cause of Death
Buried: Location of Burial or Memorial
Related to: Mainly set in relation to others on this list or parent
Job: Before war if known
Act: Name of circus troupe or artistic partnership &c.
1914-1918 Notes: Brief notes. More information may be contained in the Newspaper section.
Military No.: (No. = Number) The number relates either to the service number or regimental number, often supplied with an address.
If #? info is from Imperial War Museum Lives of the First World War online site, and may relate to the individual. If there are more than 1 possibility for a match then no information is added to this note.)
Regiment: or Service. A full list of WW1 abbreviations can be found online www.nationalarchives.gov.uk Ref: References are annotated as see bibliography for source codes page 158 and 159.
B = Bibliography Ref (see codes page 158 and 159)
D = Page number from Dictionary of Circus Biography
F = Family source, name
N = Newspaper with Newspaper Name and Date (day/month/year). Dates relate to publication date. Note: some entries will correspond to dates to War Circus Newspapers.
O = Online source,
( Note: all data was collected by research team unfortunately as a result some references have been mislaid and remain blank.)
X = Other
LIST
AEROS
Job: 3x Aerialists
1914-1918 Notes: Called up
Ref: N. Hull Daily Mail 4/8/14
AFLANA, Basil
Nationality: Russian
Born: 18 July 1891
Job: Acrobat
Act: Alfana Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: Joined the White Russian army in 1917 but was injured and discharged in Shanghai. Joined the Bostock Circus (Royal Italian) and toured with them in Far East.
Ref: D. p2.
ALPINE, Charles
Job: Wire Walkers
Act: Alpine Troupe, x5 in troupe
1914-1918 Notes: With Sells-Floto Buffalo Bill for 1914/15 season.
Ref: O.
ANDERSON, Ernie
Job: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Working In America. Mentioned by Fred Bradna, in feud with German Bear Trainer, Emil Pallenberg.
Ref: B. (B F)
ANDERSON, Eugene
Related to: Son of Madame Gitana, English Strong Lady
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 serving on HMS Grafton, Formerly on HMS Ganges.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 4/9/15 (photo)
ANDREU, Jose
Nationality: Spanish
Born: 23 April 1895, Cubellas, Catalonia
Died: 1980
Job: Acrobat, Clown, Aerialist
1914-1918 Notes: in 1914 left France for Spain, joined Cortez Circus Then Valencia Circus. With his father started Circo Reina-Victoria and travelled throughout Spain, 1916 in Madrid. Started clowning as Charlie Rivels.
Ref: D.p246
“ANITA”
Aka: Anita The Living Doll
Nationality: Hungarian
Born: 1882
Act: Small Lady
1914-1918 Notes: Toured with British Showman Frank Bostock.
Ref: Multiple N. Hull Daily Mail, 10/10/14
ARLEY
Job: Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: performed in 1914 at the Blackpool Tower circus with a troup of acrobatic and footballing dogs.
Ref: D. p12
ARRO
Job: Aerial
Act: Arro Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with Hannefords 1914.
ASHBY,
Aka: Happy Ashby
Job: Juggler and Circus Artiste
1914-1918 Notes: Took 4 months to get back to Britain from Peking after extensive tour.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/12/14
“ATLAS”
See: Rokis
AUSTIN, Albert
Aka: Albert Bandbox Austin
Born: 1872
Related to: Son of Geo. & Emma
Act: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Ran Ginnett’s Circus until war started.
Ref: D. p16
AUSTIN, Alby
Born: 1903
Related to: Son of Albert Bandbox
Job: August (type of clown)
1914-1918 Notes: Debut 1916 in Frank Bostock’s Circus, 2 Seasons.
AUSTIN, (BROTHERS – Charles, George, Harry)
Aka: Austin Brothers
Born: (Harry 1872)
Died: ( Harry 1919)
Related to: Sons of Geo. & Emma
Act: Equestrian & Clowns
1914-1918 Notes: Circus closed 1915 due to war.
Ref: D. p16
BAILEY, Francis
Related to: Nephew of F.C Bostock and R Fosset Jnr
1914-1918 Notes: In Armed forces at Colchester in early 1915
Regiment: Royal Field Artillery
Ref: N. The World’s Fair 20/2/15 (photo), 28/8/15
BAILEY, Gordon
Related to: Brother of Francis Bailey
1914-1918 Notes: In Armed forces at Colchester in early 1915
Regiment: Royal Field Artillery
Ref: N. The World’s Fair 20/2/15 (photo) and 28/8/15
BALE, Arthur Percy
Aka: Young Tyko Menia
Born: 6th Dec 1895, Paddington
Died: 17 Oct 1916
Related to: Father Frank Bale, Clown at Bognor
1914-1918 Notes: C. 1913 he joined the 2/9th Cyclist Battalion. He volunteered on 27 Oct 1915 in Southampton aged 19 yrs. 10 months. Arthur was at Beaumont Hamel on 1 July; his regiment at St John’s Rd in reserve and then in Mary Redan Trench. On 27 July they were sent from Candas to the Ypres sector but brought back on 7 Oct to the Somme. By 11 Oct they were in trenches south of Gueudecourt and on 12 Oct they were in support during the attack on the Hilt Trench. On 18 Oct they attacked Grease Trench and their objective was taken and held. The conditions were terrible in the trenches and they were not relieved until 20 October.
Regiment: Private in the 2nd Battalion Hampshire, 88th Brigade, 29th Division. Regiment.
Ref: F. Karen Nesbitt
BALE, Edwin George
Born: 1876 in Blackburn,
Married: Florrie Gardiner 1914
Related to: Son of Edwin Bale Sr from Isle of Wight, cousin to Frank Bale.
Job: Trapeze & Cycling Act
Act: Yokohama Troupe
1914-1918 Notes: Performing
Ref: D. p22
BANVARD, Billy
Nationality: American
Born: b.1865 America
Married: 1914
Died: 1951
Related to: Billy Founder of Barnvards
Job: Aerialists
Act: Flying Banvards
1914-1918 Notes: Performed at Tower Circus
Ref: D. p25
BARLOW, Peter W
Died: age 48 1917
Job: Bareback rider, elephant man etc
1914-1918 Notes: Performing
Ref: N. NY Clipper, 23/6/17
BARNUM, Lce_Cpl.
1914-1918 Notes: Injured, Mule kick to face.
Regiment: 1915, 23rd Division Train, 191st Co. Army Service Corps.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 27/2/15 and 28/8/15
BARNUM, F Cpl.
1914-1918 Notes: Injured, France, 1915.
Regiment: A.S.C.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 16/10/15
BEAN, Arthur
Born: 22 Nov 1894, Kent
Died: 24 April 1961
Job: Circus Agent & Zoo Keeper
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 was in New Zealand, joined Army, was discharged due to bad eyesight, returned to Britain and worked at Remount Depot, Upminster.
Ref: D. p29
BEAUMONT, Henry, Pte.
1914-1918 Notes: Serving France,
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 27/10/17 (letter)
BECKETT, Charlie
Born: 1895
Job: Tumbler, Rider, etc
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 with Broncho Bills Circus in the Black Country
Ref: D. p29
BECKETT, Joe
Born: 4 May 1892
Died: 12 March 1965
Act: Boxer
1914-1918 Notes: During war he served in the Royal Flying Corps as an air mechanic, and boxed professionally throughout, re joined the circus after.
Ref: D. p30; O. NFCA
BELL BROTHERS CIRCUS
Related to: Amelia Bell – To Arthur Feely
1914-1918 Notes: The Bell family (19 members) were travelling to Europe having fled the Mexican revolution, to perform when the war broke out. They fled back to latin America via the Panama Canal
Ref: O. Obituary (ref lost)
BELL, Dickey
Married: Alice
Died: 7 Feb 1939
Job: Acrobat & all rounder
1914-1918 Notes: In 1914 he attempted to sign up but was rejected on account of his many broken bones. His wife had to step into the act to replace his partner who went to war.
Ref: D. p30
BELL, George
Nationality: African American
Job: Giant, 7’11”, 350 lbs
1914-1918 Notes: went to enlist, had to have 2 cots, enrolled as two men so could get double rations, rejected.
BELLINI, Jim
Born: Norway?
Job: All rounder
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 with Poole and Boscos Circus in Ireland
Ref: D. p31
BERNARD, Bert
Act: Karno’s “Mumming Birds”
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Germany, Interned in Rulheben Camp.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/2/1
BIDDALL, Benny
1914-1918 Notes: 1916-1918 Service,
Military No.: 36404
Regiment: 19th Lancashire Fusiliers, transport section, B.E.F.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 13/6/18 and 13/7/18
BIDDALL, H
1914-1918 Notes: Serving France in 1918
Military No.: 018191
Regiment: 109 S Co., Army Ordinance Corps, A.O.P., No. 4, B.E.F.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 13/7/18
BIDDALL, James Freeman
Born: 1860
Job: Circus Proprietor, Biddall’s Circus
1914-1918 Notes: Biddall’s Circus performing in St. Andrews in 1914
BIRCH, Charles, Pte.
Job: Midget Shows
1914-1918 Notes: Served.
Military No.: 179025
Regiment: 21st Platoon, “C” Co. 20 hut, “M” Lines, F., Machine Gun Corps.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 16/11/8
BLUMENFELD, Adolf
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: Serving with German Army.
Ref: B. (O,M)
BLUMENFELD, Alex
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: Killed while serving with German Army.
Ref: B. (O M)
BLUMENFELD, Arthur
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: Served in German Army, Awarded Iron Cross.
Ref: B. (O M)
BLUMENFELD, Eugen
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: Served in German Army, Awarded Iron Cross.
Ref: B. (O M)
BLUMENFELD, Leo
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: Serving with German Army.
Ref: B. (O M)
BLUMENFELD, Sophia Gottieben
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: long time British resident, In court for travelling without permit, Aliens Act.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 3/8/18
BONAVITA, Jack, Captain
Died: 23 March 1917, Polar Bear attack, America.
Ref: N. NY Clipper, 28/3/17
BOSTOCK, Alexander Gordon
Born: 22 Feb 1885
Married: Oct 1918 Elvyn Margaret (b. 1899) Tendring Essex
Died: 12 Jan 1919
Cause O.D.: Pneumonia in the Military Hospital in Dovercourt (3 days before de-mob.
Burried: Ipswich, Suffolk
Related to: 3rd son of E.H. Bostock ( 2nd son died in infancy)
Job: Manager Ipswich Hippodrome
1914-1918 Notes: 15 May 1915 enlisted as gunner, 7 Sept 1916 commissioned to Essex & Suffolk Regiment RGA, 1 Feb 1917 promoted to Lieutenant.
Regiment: Royal Garrison Artillery, A&S Highlanders, and Royal Scots
Ref: B. (B EH); D. p39; O. B
BOSTOCK, Arthur Douglas Fairgreave
Born: 13 August 1887
Married: Violet Selina (b. 1889)
Died: 17 July 1963
Related to: 4th son of E.H. Bostock
1914-1918 Notes: He was put in charge of his Father’s circus, Bostock’s Royal Italian Circus, in 1913. He took it to South Africa in November 1914, then on to Calcutta, Bombay, Madras, Java 1917 etc basing in Singapore. He could not return circus to Britain after the war, eventually returning in 1922.
Ref: B. (B EH); D. p40; O. B
BOSTOCK, Claude William
Born: 17 Jan 1891
Died: 29 Oct 1970
Related to: Son of J.W. Bostock
Job: Artiste
1914-1918 Notes: To New York on 10 Jan 1914 on Caronia, at outbreak of war, worked with brother Gordon as a Vaudeville Agent, registered for service 5 June 1917.
Ref: O. B
BOSTOCK. Edward Henry
Born: 19 Oct 1858
Married: Elizabeth Bostock, Cousin 1881
Died: 17 Sept 1940
Buried: Hillfooot Cemetery, Bearsden, Strathclyde
Related to: Son of James (1814) & Emma Bostock
Job: Circus & Menagerie Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Managed businesses in Bostock & Wombell’s Menagerie, Zoo buildings in Glasgow and various Hippodromes, while family served or were abroad, buildings requisitioned at times by military, Became J.P.
Ref: B. (B EH); O. B
BOSTOCK, Edward Henry Augustus “Gus”
Born: 4 June 1882, Le Mans
Married: 1927 Elizabeth Little (b.1891)
Died: 5 August 1943
Related to: 1st son of E.H. Bostock
1914-1918 Notes: Served, survived
Regiment: A.S.C.
Ref: B. (B EH); O. B
BOSTOCK, John Reginald “Jack”
Born: 22 Feb 1889
Married: 17 June 1915, Jean (b. 1 Aug 1894)
Died: 22 Dec 1920
Cause O.D.: Car Accident
Related to: 4th son of E.H. Bostock
Job: Menagerist & Manager Bostock & Wombwell’s, also champion cyclist & rollerskater
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 responsible for family menagerie, applied exemption Feb 1917, denied Joined March 1917, Motor Transport, De-mobbed 1919 reaching rank of lieutenant.
Regiment: R.A.S.C.
Ref: B. (B EH); N. The World’s Fair 3/2/17; O. B
BOSTOCK, Frank
Related to: Cousin to E.H. Bostock
Job: Big Cats & Circus Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: In France at outbeak of war with circus, had to escape to England, Continued touring with circus once all equipment arrived from France. Managed Bostock & Wombwell’s after Jack Bostock joined army. Invested £17,000 in War Loans.
Ref: B. (B EH); O. B
BOSTOCK, James William
Born: 27 Aug 1855
Married: Susannah Julia ( b 1855)
Died: 18 Dec 1919
Buried: Abney Park Cemetery, Stoke Newington
Related to: Elder brother to E.H. Bostock
Job: Menagerist & Showman
1914-1918 Notes: discharged from his bankruptcy in 1914. Continued through war to present novelties,
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 23/12/16; O. B
BOSWELL, Claude
Related to: Boswell’s Circus, S.Africa
1914-1918 Notes: Joined up British Army 1914 in Pietermaritzberg.
Ref: B. (R C)
BOSWELL’S CIRCUS BAND
Nationality: German
Job: Musicians
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 Interned in South Africa at outset of war, allowed to play one more show.
Ref: B. (R C)
BRADNA, Ella
Nationality: Hungarian/Naturalised American
Married: Fred
1914-1918: Helped secure acts with Husband for Ringling. Performed throughout war in America.
Ref: B. (B F)
BRADNA, Fred
Nationality: Alsatian/German/Naturalised American
Married: Ella
1914-1918 Notes: 1913 seeing war on the horizon, went to Europe to scout for acts to bring to America. Performed as Equestrian Director for Ringling. See Biography.
Ref: B: (B F)
BRATBY, Richard “Dick”, RSM
Aka: Dick Sandow, The Young Sandow, note: Surname often spelled as Bratley
Married: Carrie Fossett 26 Sept 1917
Died: 1957, Northampton
Related to: Tom Sandow ( youngest son)
Job: Strongman, Acrobat, Equestrian
Act: American Swells
1914-1918 Notes: In British Armed Services, Gassed at Somme, after hospital return to Britain, was PT instructor Catterick, toured with wife in 1918 with Duffy’s Circus in Ireland, survived the war.
Military No.: L/31408
Regiment: 177 Brigade, R.F.A.
Ref: D. p.256; N. The World’s Fair, 7/8/15 and 29/9/17; F. Tom Sandow (son)
BRAUN, Emile Otto
Aka: Paul Cinquevalli
Nationality: Prussian/Naturalised British
Born: 1859, Possen, Poland
Died: Summer 1918, Brixton
1914-1918 Notes: Ostracised as alien resulting in “broken heart”, and death.
Act: Juggler
Ref: B. (W D); N. NY Clipper 17/7/18
‘BRICK”
See: GALANTE, Marius
BRUNNER, Fritz
Nationality: German
Job: Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: 1918 working in America, Not allowed to travel now that America at War. New regulations enemy workers have to put up $1000 bond, in order to travel.
Ref: N. NY Clipper, 24/4/18
BURNS, John
Job: Bostock’s Circus man.
1914-1918 Notes: Rifleman Burns, injured ( back & both legs) in a big push at Loos Sept 25,1915. In Military Hospital Hillsbrough Barracks, Sheffield.
Military Service #: 12147
Regiment: K.R.R.C.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 27/11/15
BURRAGE, Douglas
Aka: Butch Renyolds
Job: Circus after the war
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 joined, served 3 years in France, wounded and promoted to Lieutenant.
Regiment: Canadian Field Artillery
Ref: D. p241
“CAMILLO”
Nationality: Belgian
Born: 1896 Brussels
Job: Clown at Carré’s Circus
1914-1918 Notes: His German master Fernando went to war.
Ref: B. (F F)
CASHMORE, Martha
Born: 1870
Died: 1 Sept 1957
Related to: Daughter of Ike Cashmore
Job: Equestrienne
1914-1918 Notes: Performed throughout war with Frank Browns Circus in Copenhagen in 1914, Warington 1917, in Glasgow for winter 1916/17 with Henglers Circus performing with Joe Craston’s horse and dogs act. 1917 Birmingham Hippodrome, 1918 Tower Circus Blackpool.
Ref: D. p52
CASTANG, Reuben
Aka: The Ape Man
Born: 1870s
Job: Animal Man, especially Chimps
Act: Chimps: Max & Moritz
1914-1918 Notes: Caught up in Europe at start of War Interned Ruhleben Camp Berlin 1914-1918, was leader inside camp, released just before end of war, returned to work for friend Lorenz Hagenbeck at Stellingen
Ref: B. (T R); D. p52
CASTANINA, Joe
Aka: Fire King or Human Ostrich
Died: 1918 age 76
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 9/2/18
CHADWICK, Henry
Aka: Henry Hazenberg
Job: Circus Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Sued Francis Carvell who had taken one of his horses in 1914, at court in April 1915
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 3/4/15
CHAPLAIN, Charlie
Married: 1918
1914-1918 Notes: Lived in America, made many films throughout war, including “Soldier to Arms” about the trenches, the ‘Tommies’ liked it. 1917 registered for service in British Army, while in America. Helped sell War Bonds.
Ref: B. (C C) N. The World’s Fair, 4/8/17
CHARLTON, F, Driver
1914-1918 Notes: In India 1917
Military info: 231641, Royal Field Artillery Reinforcements, R.H., R.G.A. Base Depot, India
Ref; N. The World’s Fair, 10/11/17 (photo)
CHIPPERFIELD, Carrie
1914-1918 Notes: Injured 1915 fall at work.Run over by waggons both legs broken.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 16/10/15
CHIPPERFIELD, James
1914-1918 Notes: Injured 1914 fall at work. Fell off waggon.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 5/12/14
CHIPPERFIELD, William
1914-1918 Died age 68
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 13/1/17
“CHOCOLAT”
See: PADILLA, Rafael
CLARK, Captain
Died: 1914
CLARK, H.H
Job: With Bostock’s in America
1914-1918 Notes: Joined British Army 1917.
Ref: N. NY Clipper, 21/7/17
“CLICO”, Wild Dancing Bushman
See: TAIBOSH, Franz
CLOWES, George
Aka: Lord George Clowes
Job: Circus Proprietor, Brighton
1914-1918 Notes: 1916 exemption denied, Served, wounded in back & chest in Belgium August 2017.
Ref:. N. The World’s Fair, 7/10/16 and 21/8/17
COCHRAN, Charles Blake
Aka: “Cockie” Cochran
Born: 1872 Sussex
Married: Evelyn Dade
Died: Feb 1951
Job: Circus Manager
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 He presented Hagenbecks Zoo and Wonder Circus in England which was a great success but had to stop at outbreak of war.
Ref: D. p61
“COCO THE CLOWN”
See: POLIAKOFF, Nicholai
CODY, Samuel Franklin Leslie, 2nd Lt
Aka: ‘Frankie’
Born: 7 Sept.1895 Bazel
Married: Maude Helier, 1913 in secret
Died: 23 January 1917
Related to: Son of Col. Samuel Franklin Cody and Elizabeth King nee Davis.
Act Child performer in parents acts and onstage in fathers’ melodrama ‘Viva, a Woman of War.’
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 enlisted with Kings’ Own Rifle Corps, Oct 1914 to Royal Field Artillery, 19 June 1915 to Royal Flying Corps. Pilot licence no. 1797 issued 28 Sept 1915 at British Flying School, France. 10 Oct 1916 commissioned 2nd Lieut. P17479. Sept 1916 became a flying officer n Royal Flying Corps 41 Squadron. Jan 1917 he was shot down in his plane, FE8 7613, during a dogfight by Lnt W. von Bülow-Bothkamp of Jasta 18. His body was found at Houlthulst. German grave number 826A. This is possibly the first recorded instance where both a father and a son were killed in the air piloting a plane.
Ref: O. IWM & Wikipedia
COLEMAN, Charlie
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 with Frank Bostock and caught up at outbreak of war on continent. 2 trips to Canada with Harry Clark collecting horses for Army. France, contracted paralysis right arm and leg.
Regiment: Army Service Corps
Ref: The World’s Fair, 23/6/17
COLEMAN, George Sanger
Related to: Grandson of Geo.Sanger
1914-1918 Notes: Performing in America and South Africa.
Ref: D. p63
CONNOR, Douglas
Born: 1897 Isle of Man
Died: 5 Feb 1991
Related to: Son of Frederick J Connor
Job: Rider & Clown, Proprietor Connor’s Grand Circus
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 his father’s horses were requisitioned by the army, so family moved to Blackpool tower circus. Father became ring master while he and Mona rode there. 1918 worked for Sylvester’s Circus.
Ref: D. p65
CONNOR, Eileen
Born: 31 July 1906
Married: George Pinder 1942
Related to: Daughter of Fred Connor
1914-1918 Notes: At school in Dublin until taken away by her mother after the Easter rising of 1916. Then rodeo with the family at Blackpool tower circus 1916-18
Ref: D. p65
CONNOR, Frederick “Fred” J
Born: 1865, Dublin
Died: 7 Nov 1924, Blackpool
Job: Acrobat and proprietor 1914-1918 Notes: Pat Collin’s Circus reopened Douglas in 1914 travelled the kingdom with beautiful daughter Mona, 1914 horses were requisitioned by the army, had to close his circus in Feb 1915 and remained closed during war. Family moved to Blackpool Tower Circus, became ring master in absence of George Lockhear. Presented a circus programme at ‘Easter Week’ 1916 in Blackpool and family performed 1917-18
Ref: D. p65
CONNOR, Mona
Born: 1896
Died: 4 feb 1969
Related to: Daughter of Fred Connor
Act: One of best bareback riders of her generation, trained by Johnny Watson, performed tricks whilst standing on the horse backwards.
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with Brother Douglas and Connors Circus, Blackpool 1916
Ref: D. p65
COOK, JA Pte
Aka: The Colonel
Married: Madame Zaza
1914-1918 Notes: Joined up 1914, Served Dardenelles, Egypt, India, Killed in action 1916.
Military No.: 11376
Regiment: 10th Batt. “B” K.O.R.L.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 27/5/16
COOKE, Edgar
Married: Iona Ginnett
1914-1918 Notes: enlisted
Ref: D. p68
COOKE, Douglas
Born: 8 July 1897 Aberdeen
Related to: Brother of William
Job: Equestrian
1914-1918 Notes: Enlisted – served in Italy and France breaking in mules.
Ref: D. p69
COOKE, Hubert
1914-1918 Notes: Enlisted – Killed Odessa 1917
Ref: D. p69
COOKE, John Henry
Died: Edinburgh age 81 1917
Ref: The World’s Fair, 24/8/17
COOKE, J. William
Died: early 1915
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 10/4/15
COOKE, William Talbot
Born: c. 1874 Ireland
Died: 20 Sept 1948 Edinburgh
Job: Equestrian Jester
1914-1918 Notes: Exempted from War service – toured with Johnny “Broncho Bill” Swallow Circus
Ref: D. p69
CORDONA, Alfredo
Nationality: Mexican
Born: 7 Oct 1893 Hermosillo, Sonora Mexico
Married: Clara Curtain 1917
Related to: Son of Edward Cordona a Mexican circus proprietor
Job: Aerialist and equestrian events director.
1914-1918 Notes: Was with Wirth’s Circus, Australia, in 1913 and when war broke out, then several seasons with Barnum and Bailey. Joined a troupe of 14 aerialists in 1916 “Silbon Troupe”, had his own act in 1917 with brother Allow.
Ref: D. p62
COSTELLO, Jock
Born: 1886
Job: Acrobat Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Served in Navy During the War
Ref: D. p69
CRAGGS, (Brothers) Billy, J.W., E.T., J.A., J.H., A.E.,
Aka: THE FAMOUS CRAGGS
Act: Acrobatic Troupe
1914-1918 Notes: Act had to close in 1916 when all the sons x7 joined up. Act was decimated by war. (not sure how many killed). No act after war.
Ref: B. (S E); N. The World’s Fair;
CRASTON, Joe
Born: 15 May 1868
Died: 9 Oct 1948
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during the war, including at Birmingham Hippodrome
Ref: D. p71; N. The World’s Fair, 31/3/17
CRECRAFT, William
Job: Circus Follower
1914-1918 Notes: Rounded up at Broncho Bill’s showground 14 Aug 1917, in court & handed over to Millitary.
Ref: N. Reading Mercury, 25/8/17
CROSS, W Simpson
Born: 1872
Died: 1920
Job: Animal Man
1914-1918 Notes: Menagerie at Otterspool opened just before the war, 1916 his gardens opened for the season, with buffalo & llamas
Ref: D. p73
CULEEN, Thomas Henry
Born: 1871
Died: 25 July 1960
Job: Equestrian
1914-1918 Notes: Served in France
Regiment: Veterinary Corps,
Ref: D. p74
DALE, Albert
Aka: Albert Wamba
Born: 28 Feb 1873, Oldham
Married: 1897 Martha Blackmore, Gymnast, died 1912
Died: 1966
Related to: Son of Harry Dale, jester & musical clown
Job: Musician, Acrobat
Act: Les Wambas
1914-1918 Notes: Performing with daughter, Mercia.
1914 – 1916. Volunteered 18 April 1916 at Drill Hall Edinburgh, Royal Scots, played in Batallion’s Military band, discharged 28 July 1916, due to age. Returned to aerial act with Mercia performed across Britain.
Military No.: 4776
Regiment: 3/9 Battalion, Royal Scots,
Ref: B. (D C); F. Colin Dale
DALE, Harry
Aka: Harry Wamba
Born: 26 Jan 1875, Oldham
Married: 1899 Jane Levin
Died: 1957
Related to: Son of Harry Dale, jester & musical clown.
1914-1918 Notes: Volunteered 11 August 1915, Edinburgh ,3/9 Battalion, Royal Scots, promoted to Band Corporal Nov 1915, played in Battalion’s Military Band with Brother’s, discharged 28 July 1916, due to age.
Regiment: Royal Scots,
Ref: B. (D C); F. Colin Dale
DALE, Stanley Henry
Born: 1880
Married: 19 Feb 1916 Eva Morrison
Related to: Son of Harry Dale, jester & musical clown
Job: Circus Musician
1914-1918 Notes: With Ohmy Circus band Dec 1914, joined up on 29th April 3/9 Battalion, Royal Scots, played in Battalion’s Military Band with brothers & never shot in anger, de-mobbed Feb 1919. Returned to wife stressed by looking after 3 sons, the 2 eldest sons Harry & Jack enlisted, his wife took to the bottle, He, left for London looking for work in 1818.
Regiment: Royal Scots,
Ref: B. (D C); F. Colin Dale
DALE, Dorothy Mercia Victoria
Aka: Mercia Wamba Dale
Born: 10 November 1889
Married: 1923
Died: 1960
Related to: Daughter of Albert Wamba Dale
Job: Acrobat & musical artiste
Act: Les Wambas
1914-1918 Notes: Performing with father 1throughout war except for 3 month period when her father was in the Army. After War soon stopped performing.
Ref: B. (D C); F. Colin Dale
DAPLYN, W.J
1914-1918 Notes: Armed Forces, 1915.
Regiment: Royal Engineers
Ref: N. Billboard, 10/7/15
DAVIES, Jim
Job: Clown & Actor
1914-1918 Notes: Audio file www.iwm.org.uk/collections/item/object/8009535
Content unknown
Ref: O. IWM
DAYTON
1914-1918 Notes: Dayton family fled to America
Ref: D. p79
DEER, Lewis, Chief,
Nationality: Cheyenne / American
1914-1918 Notes: Caught out in Europe at the start of the war.
Ref: N. El Passo Herald
DEITRICH, Emerson
Nationality: American
Died: 1914,
Cause O.D.: Mauled by fiancé, Adige Costello’s, lions in America.
Ref: X. Facebook, Chris Berry
DEMAGNETISE, Patrick
1914-1918 Notes: In British Armed Services
Regiment: 17th Lancers
Ref: D. p79
DELBOSQ, Alfred
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war in Germany
Ref: D. p79
DICK, F., Pte
Job: Circus proprietor
Relation: Son of Nathaniel Dick
1914-1918 Notes: Served France
Military No.: 6064,
No. 9 Platoon, “C” Co., 1/6 Black Watch, B.E.F., France
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 31/3/17 (photo)
DICK, Henry, Pte
Relation: Brother of F
Job: Circus proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Served
Regiment: “B” Co., 5th Platoon, Black Watch, B.E.F., France
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 15/9/17 (photo)
DOLBEAR, Thomas E
Job: Circus Follower
1914-1918 Notes: Rounded up at Broncho Bill’s show ground 14 Aug 1917, in court & handed over to Millitary.
Ref: N. Reading Mercury, 25/8/17
DOLMAN, William, Sgt.
Died: 1917
Job: Boxer
1914-1918 Notes: Killed by shell in France, serving with the Canadian Entrenching Battalions.
Ref: N. Belper News, 2/6/17
“DOODLES”
See: McALLISTER, W.L.
DOYLE, James
Aka: Frederick Lewis
Born: 1865 Wexford
Died: 4 June 1952
1914-1918 Notes: With Duffy’s Various Circuses – “The Highest Paid Man in the Business”
Ref: D. p169
DRAKE, Furno
Job: Circus business manager
1914-1918 Notes: Served 2 yrs 9 mths inc Ypres, and a 1918 Christmas pantomime, Cinderella. Returned to work with J Sanger. 1918
Regiment: 65th Brigade. RGA
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/3/18
DRESHER, Sylvia Genevre Bonita
Aka: Bonita Dash
Nationality: Australian? Anglo/Spanish Descent
Married: 1913 William Lee, Kennington
Act: Sharp Shooter
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Australia with husband. 1915-16 touring S Africa and India with Royal Italian Circus billed as “Bonita and Billy Lee”. 1917 returned to Australia
Ref: D. p75
DUFFY, John
Born: 1 Oct 1875
Married: Janie McCandish
1914-1918 Notes: Family remained together as Duffy Family Circus, performing in Ireland, 1917 the show split into three parts. John set off with his own circus, End of successful tour announced World’s Fair. 1918
Ref: D. p87 and p88; N. The World’s Fair, 26/10/18
DUFFY, James
Born: 1884
Died: 1971
1914-1918 Notes: Family remained together as Duffy Family Circus, performing in Ireland, 1917 the show split into three parts. James set off with his sister Elizabeth McClean, Duffy & McClean’s Circus.
Ref: D. p87 and p88
DUFFY, Elizabeth
Born: 1880 Stratford, London
Married: McClean
Related to: James Duffy brother
1914-1918 Notes: 1917 Set out with brother James Duffy as Duffy & McClean’s Circus.
Ref: D. p87 and p88
“DUNCAN” Patterson, John
Job: Animal Trainer
Act: Duncan’s Royal Scotch Collies
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with a famous dog act – 1915 at Tower Circus, Blackpool, 1917-18 Hengler’s Circus Glasgow.
Ref: D. p89
ELLIOT (family)
1914-1918 Notes: Cyclists During the War
Ref: D. p92
Van EMDEN, Max
Nationality: Dutch
1914-1918 Notes: c. June 1916 became performance parter for Grock.
Ref: B. (G)
ENOS, George & Mary
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 sailed from America to S America for 3 year contract.
Ref: N. Billboard, 6/11/15
ENOS, George & Mary
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 sailed from America to S America for 3 year contract.
Ref: N. Billboard, 6/11/15
ENOS, Rue
1914-1918 Notes: Joined Yankee Robinson Circus 1917
Ref: N. NY Clipper, 21/7/17
ESSANGEY, Joseph
Nationality: Parents Mexican
Job: Lion Tamer
1914-1918 Notes: Charged with being Absentee, handed over to authorities
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 23/9/16
“ETHARDO” HICKS, Thomas
Married: Edith Rouse, Yarmouth
Job: Flying gymnast
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 with George Sangar’s Circus at outbreak. working with Frank Foster and Jimmy Freeman. Arrested 11/12/1915, Living at 27 Cambridge Street Wellinbrough, Did anti-aircraft training.
Regiment: ? RGA 124955 or 38?
Ref: B. (F F) Ref: O. British-genealogy, ‘chat’ thread
EVANS, Frederick William
Aka: “Pimple” the Clown
Born: 1889
Died: 1951
Related to: Son of the original Pimple Fred Evans
Ref: D. p93
EVANS, John Richard
Aka: Riskit Jack
Born: Manchester
Died: 1955
Job: Wire Walker & Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Performed trapeze act with wife, 1916 joined up, served France, & entertained troops. Wife died just after war.
Regiment: Kings Regiment
Ref: D. p243
EVERS, J
Aka: Jungle Jack
Job: Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 on tour in South America with Chimps, returns to UK before April 1915
Ref: N. The World’s Fair,
FANQUE Darby, Edward “Ted”
See: PABLO, Edward
FEELY, Arthur
Married: Catherine
Died: 1955 Bromley
Cause O.D.: Cancer
Related to: Bell Family
Job: Animal man, elephants
1914-1918 Notes: Volunteered 25 November 1915, worked with horses, served in France, wounded in right leg, discharged 1917 with limited pension. Returned to Bostock & Wombwell’s Menagerie 26 May 1917
Military No.: 3653
Ref: F. Geoff Younger (G. Grandson)
FISHER, Alexander E
Job: Circus Staff
1914-1918 Notes: Rounded up at Broncho Bill’s show ground 14 Aug 1917. In court for failing to produce National Registration Cards as between 17 and 18 years.
Ref: N. Reading Mercury, 25/8/17
FLEXMORE, Albert
Born: Birmingham
Job: Ringmaster/Agent
1914-1918 Notes: Served, injured in Egypt, in hospital in Birmingham 1917, returned to circus
Military No.: 38094
Regiment: Royal Bucks Hussars
Ref: D. p98; N. The World’s Fair, 15/12/17
FOOTTIT, George,
Nationality:
Born: 1864
Died: 1921
Job: Clown
Act: Partner Chocolat
1914-1918 Notes: Worked for Théâtre aux Armées, the entertainment branch of the French military, performing for the troops ( made him cry). In 1916, he appeared in a revue by Rip (Georges-Gabriel Thenon, 1884-1941), L’école des civils, at the Théâtre de l’Athénée in Paris.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, O. CP
FORT, Alice
Married: George Sanger Coleman
1914-1918 Notes: Spent war touring with husband
Ref: D. p99
FOSSETT, Alf
1914-1918 Notes: Served France 1917 – 1918 survived.
Military No.: 76170
Regiment: No 4 Platoon, 126 Labour Corps,
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 13/10/17
FOSSETT, Anthony “Bim”
Related to: younger Brother to “Jack” John Fossett
1914-1918 Notes: Served France 1917 – 1918, was gassed and shell shocked, survived.
Ref: George Pinder
FOSSETT, Caroline “Carrie”
Aka: Miss Christine
Born: 1896
Married: 26 Sept 1917 Richard Bratby
Related to: Daughter of ‘Funny’ Harry Fossett
Job: Equestrienne
1914-1918 Notes: Performed for much of the war probably with her Father’s Circus after husband posted to Catterick family oral history suggests she was in married quarters and German POWs and the laundry. Later with her husband touring in Ireland c.1918 with Duffy’s in Ireland.
World’s Fair notice of wedding and performance singing war songs.
Ref: D. p99; N.The World’s Fair, 23/6/17 and 29/9/17; F. Tom Sandow (son)
FOSSETT, Claude Pte.
Military No.:40298
Regiment: Bedfordshire Regiment. Shot in leg
FOSSETT, Edward
Born: 1898, Rickmansworth
Married: 1924 Mona Powell
Related to: Second youngest son of Sir Robert Fossett and Mary nee Francis
Job: Equestrian Acrobat
1914-1918 Notes: Sent by his family to Ireland 1917 with Georgie Knight. In Ireland during war with Wilson and Duffy’s show and John Duffy’s show.
Ref: D. p101
FOSSETT, Harry
Aka: Funny Harry
Job: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Worked throughout war.
Ref: Multiple inc N. The World’s Fair 23/6/17
FOSSETT, John “Jack”
Born: c.1893
Died: 10 October 1917
Cause O.D.: Wounds
Related to: brothers Claude and Anthony Fossett, & John 10. Hope Place, Dawlish Rd, Selly Oak, Birmingham
1914-1918 Notes: Served in France, died at the Battle of Broodseinde. Remembered at Tyne Cot Memorial. He was a runner at the time. Eye Witness reported to George Pinder. “He said Jack was his mate and that Jack was running a message when a shell landed and hit him, what was left of him was buried there so he has no grave. The old boy said it could just as easily have been him who was killed.”
Military No.: 21710
Regiment: 11th Battalion, Royal Warwickshire Regiment
Ref: F. George Pinder
FOSSETT, Robert, Sir
1914-1918 Notes: Show Performed through the War, Napoleon, his intelligent horse drowned, when being taken for a wash in the sea in 1915.
Ref N. The World’s Fair, 5/6/15
FOSSETT, Robert
1914-1918 Notes: Aged 27 At Borne Police Court, Charged as absentee under Military Services Act, fined £2 handed over to Military escort to enlist, Officers rewarded 5s.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair,
FOSSETT, Thomas
Job: Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: In court 2 times 1917 re holding a Lottery and another time re Entertainment Tax law.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 8/9/17 and Western Times 16/11/17.
FOSSETT, Thomas
1914-1918 Notes: Aged 18 At Borne Police Court, Charged as absentee under Military Services Act, fined £2 handed over to Military escort to enlist, Officers rewarded 5s.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair,
FOSTER, Joe
Job: Lion Tamer
1914-1918 Notes: Applied for extension to exemption, told to join up 1 Nov 1916
Ref: N. Yorkshire Evening Post, 14/9/16
FOSTER, Frank
Born: 1892
Job: Equestrian, Juggler, Animal man (later Ring Master) With George Sanger Circus
1914-1918 Notes: After finishing14/15 winter season with George Sanger’s Circus, enlisted in Army at Preston early 1915, joined the 5th Dragoon Guards, Autumn 1915 crossed to France as cavalryman, Wounded at Vimmy Ridge also frost bite, hospital at Etaples, began entertaining troops in France. In Wally Bridge hospital in 1919, gained discharge, returned to Circus.
Regiment: 5th Dragoon Guards, then Royal Scots
Ref: B. (F F); F. Juliet Powell (Daughter) and Frank Foster (Grandson)
FRAMPTON, Walter
Job: Juggler
1914-1918 Notes: age 28, in court, sent to Army 1917
Ref; N. The World’s Fair, 3/11/17
FRANKLIN, Sgt.
1914-1918 Notes: Recruiting Officer in South Wales
Ref; N. The World’s Fair, 21/8/15
FREDERICK THE GREAT
See: KEMPSTER, Fred
FREEMAN, George
Related to: Brother to Jimmy Freeman
Job: Equestrian & Clown
1914-1918 Notes: With Bostock’s Royal Italian Circus – Tour S Africa and Far East for duration of war.
Ref: D. p111
FREEMAN, James “Jimmy”
Aka: “Pimpo” from 1920 after original “Pimpo” was injured
Born: 1888
Married: Secret marriage to Vicki Sanger 1917
Died: 22 Jan 1966
Related to: Brother of George Freeman
Job: Equestrian Acrobat
1914-1918 Notes: Rejected for military service in 1914, 1915 doing table acrobatics with Hannefords, years of hardship. Went to Bostock’s then Sanger’s.
Ref: B. (F F); D. p220
FRIEDMANN, Hayem
Job: Musical Clown, partner to Grock
1914-1918 Notes: Violinist, Performed with Grock 1916, then in May 1916 joined up.
Ref; N. The World’s Fair, 21/8/15
GALANTE, Marius
Aka: Brick
Nationality: ?
Died: 1938
Job: Clown
Act: Brick & Grock
1914-1918 Notes: Fought Salonika, wounded, shot in the lung.
Ref: B. (G)
GALPA, Anatoly
Nationality: Russian
Job: Circus Boy
1914-1918 Notes: Youngest soldier, Mascot to Siberian Artillery
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/12/14
GARDINER, Florrie
Married: 1914 Edwin George Bale
Job: Equestrienne
1914-1918 Notes: Returned from Germany just before war, died shortly after. See George Bale entry.
Ref: D. p115
GEORGETTI
Nationality: French
Job: Hand balancer
1914-1918 Notes: Working In America. Mentioned by Fred Bradna
Ref: B. (B F)
GERBOLA (Brothers: Leopold, Michelle, Rodolpho “Toni”)
Aka: Gerbola Trio
Died: Michelle d. 1918
Ref: D. p117
GIBSON, Henry
Aka: Zakaree Ermakov, Rusian Expert at Arms
1914-1918 Notes: In court for accidentally shooting audience member.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 1/7/16
GILBERT, George
Died: 1915
Cause O. D. Illness
Job: Proprietor Yarmouth & Lowestoft Hippodromes
1914-1918 Notes: Business effected by Zeppelin attacks on Great Yarmouth.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 7/4/15
GILLENO, Paul Pte.
Job: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Killed in Action
Ref N. The World’s Fair,
GINNETT, Adelaide
Born: 17 Dec 1877
Related to: Daughter of Funny Dickey Ginnett and Ellen nee Jones.
1914-1918 Notes: Ran William Ginnett’s Circus up until 1914.
Ref: D. p119
GINNETT, Charles
1914-1918 Notes: Toured with his bother in Law, Harry Lucas “Ginnet and Luko’s Empire Circus” at Yardley 1915, Still tenting in 1917 difficult without men, soon closed.
Ref: D. p119
GINNETT, Fred
1914-1918 Notes: Presenting an act with children performing as soldiers, Inventing potential useful things for the army. Bought Straberry Vale Farm East Finchley, early 1915. Present various shows, inc ‘Wild Australia’. March 1916 gave the Army tents to house horses.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/12/14, 6/3/15, 18/9/15 and 11/3/16
GINNETT, Gene
Married: Florence Joyce 1915
1914-1918 Notes: Married 1915
Ref: D. p120
GODFREY, Goff
Job: Circus Artist
1914-1918 Notes: Rounded up at Broncho Bill’s show ground 14 Aug 1917, In court & handed over to Millitary.
Ref: N. Reading Mercury, 25/8/17
GREY, Edward Walter
Aka: Smith, Edward Walter
Nationality: Canadian
Born: 1899 Deal, Kent
Job: Leader of The Manitos
Act: Western
1914-1918 Notes: Returned to England as a soldier in Canadian Army, wounded 3 times, discharged 1919
Ref: D. p182
GREY, ?
Aka: La Belle Herculine
Married: Joe
Related to: daughter of Frederick Grey
Job: Hirsute athlete, boxing, wrestling & weightlifting
1914-1918 Notes: with Thomas Fossett’s in 1914, with John Duffy & Sons 1915, exhibited by James Bostock in 1916, then joined Tom Fossett’s 1917, very successful season.
Ref: D. p133; N. The World’s Fair, 15/12/17
GREY, Fred Baxter
Related to: Son of ‘Herculine’
1914-1918 Notes: Served in 97th (C.P.) Field Ambulance, France
Regiment: Royal Army Medical Corps,
Ref: D. p133; N. The World’s Fair, 11/1/19 (photo)
GRIDNEFF FAMILY
Aka: Amazing Gridneffs
Nationality: Russian
Act: Ladder Act
1914-1918 Notes: The Amazing Gridneffs Flee Russian revolution 1918 and travel world wide inc. China,
Ref: F. Yuri Gridneff
GRIFFITHS, John Albert
Aka: September
Died: June 1915 age 38.
Related to: Son of Le Quip, Clown
Job: Clown
1914-1918 Note: Performer at Tower Circus until March 1915.
GRIMMER, Daniel
Job: Equestrian with Sanger’s
1914-1918 Notes: Joined up 1915, Royal Veterinary Corps, in Turkey at the time of the landing at the Dardanelles, April 1915, Also served Salonica, Turkey, Egypt and other countries.and was invalided home with malaria in July 1916, receiving his discharge in March, 1919.
Military No.: SE 15107
Regiment: Royal Veterinary Corps
Ref: N. Nottingham Evening Post, 1/3/1935
GROCK
See: Wettach, Charles Adrian.
GROVES, Frank
Job: Circus Artist
1914-1918 Notes: Rounded up at Broncho Bill’s show ground 14 Aug 1917, In court & handed over to Millitary.
Ref: N. Reading Mercury, 25/8/17
HACKENSHMIDT
Nationality: Russian
Job: Wrestler
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Germany, Interned in Rulheben Camp, but allowed out on parole.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/2/16
HAGENBECK, Henrich
Nationality: German
Related to: Elder son Carl Hagenbeck
Job: Menagerist
1914-1918 Notes: Enlisted German Army Survived. Mistakenly reported in American Press as killed
Ref: B. (H L)
HAGENBECK, John
Nationality: German
Born: 1866
Died: 1940
Related to: Half brother to Carl Hagenbeck
Job: Animal exporter & Ethngraphic act agent, based in Ceylon
1914-1918 Notes: Briefly detained by British in Celyon – escaped via Java, returned to Germany
Ref: B. (H L)
HAGENBECK, Lorenz
Nationality: German
Related to: Son of Carl Hagenbeck
1914-1918 Notes: Worked in Circus for duration of war, performing in Sweden, showing in Poland, Germany & Netherlands. Falsely reported in America as killed at the front.
Ref: B. (H L)
HALL, Thomas A
1914-1918 Notes: Charged with absence from the reserves, age 26, handed over to Army
Ref: N. Liverpool Daily Post, 17/6/16
HALL, Tommy
Relation: Son-in-law to proprietor of Bilddal’s Circus, son of Thomas Hall
Died 1916
1914-1918 Notes: Killed in action
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 28/10/16
HALL, W.P.
Aka: The Sage of Lancashire
Job: Circus Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 closed circus. started shipping horses to warring powers.
HANNAH, Robert
Aka: “Bob Swift” also “Griffiths” of, Griffiths & Bigleton
Married: Emma Lawrence
Died: 1918
1914-1918 Notes: Served, Killed 1918
Ref: N. The World’s Fair
HANNEFORD, Edwin
Aka: Poodles
Born: 1891 Barnsley?
Died: 1967
Related to: Parents Elizabeth & Ned Hanneford
Job: Trick rider
Act: Family equestrian comedy & acrobatic act
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 toured Britain & Ireland, 1915 Spain. Sailed to America with family 13 November 1915 to join Ringling also performed in Cuban seasons 1916 & 1917, Famous family act by 1918
Ref: B, (P N); D. p129; N. The World’s Fair,
HANNEFORD, Elizabeth
Born: 10 March 1870
Married: Edwin “Ned” Hanneford
Job: Equestrienne, Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Matriarch of the Hanneford’s Royal Canadian Circus. 1914 toured Britain & Ireland, 1915 Spain. Sailed to America with family 13 November 1915 to join Ringling also performed in Cuban seasons 1916 & 1917, Became very famous by 1918
Ref: D p129; N. Multiple The World’s Fair; O. PRONI
HANNEFORD, George
Married: Kathleen Breen
Related to: Son of Elizabeth Hanneford
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with family throughout war. see above.
Ref: D. p129
HANNEFORD, Lizzie
Related to: Daughter of Elizabeth Hanneford.
Job: Rope spinner, wire walker, tumbler, & singer.
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with family throughout war. see above. By 1915 she was fêted and recieved 10 proposals of marriage.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 1/5/15
HARMSTON, Jennie
1914-1918 Notes: Performing early 1915, Calcutta with Harmston’s Circus.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 6/2/15
HARMSTON, Willie
1914-1918 Notes: Performing early 1915, Calcutta with Harmston’s Circus.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 6/2/15
HATTON, R.J. Pte.
Job: With Biddal’s Circus
1914-1918 Notes: Served, still in Army in May 1919 awaiting release.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 5/4/19
HAZENBURG, Henry
See: CHADWICK, Henry
HAYEM,
Job: Grock’s Partner
1914-1918 Notes: Called up 15/16 Ref: B. (G)
HEDLEY, Jack Jnr.
Job: Life Exhibitor
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 set off to tour France and Italy exhibiting Frederick the Great, with Otto Heinman.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 20/3/15
HEINEMAN
Job: Life Exhibitor
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 working with Frederick the Great. In Germany at outbreak of war, they were detained and then returned to Britiain. 1915 they set off to tour France and Italy.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 20/3/15
HENGLER, Albert,
Job: Circus Director, Hengler’s Circus
1914-1918 Notes: Hengler’s Circus Glasgow continued to present large, scale entertainments with Water features.
Ref: B. (F F); N. The World’s Fair, 11/12/15,
HENGLEUR, Madame
Born: 17 August 1862
Married: George Steadman
Related to: daughter of John Griffiths, Clown
Job: Animal trainer
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with dogs 1915 at Wednesbury Hippodrome
Ref: D. p132
HEPSTON, MAURICE “Paddy”
Aka: Captain Epstein
Nationality: Irish
Born: 1877
Job: Managed indentured “ethnographic” performer, Franz Taibosh, aka “Cliko, The Wild Dancing Bushman”
1914-1918 Notes: Presented Franz Taibish for duration of War. 1914 in England, Ireland, possibly Spain and Jamaica, 1917 in Cuba, and USA, 1918. Lost act in 1918.
Ref: B. (P N)
HICKS, Tom
See ETHARDO, Tom
“HERCULINE”
See: GREY, ?
HODGINI, Joe
Born: 1895
Married: Etta Davis 1915
Job: Trick rider, juggler
1914-1918 Notes: Performed in USA with Ringling until 1916,
Ref: D. p135
HODGINS, Edward
Job: circus performer
1914-1918 Notes: in court for assault
Ref: N, The World’s Fair, 3/8/18
HOLLOWAY, George
Relation: Son of George Holloway
ob: Acrobatic wire walkers, originated perpendicular ladder act 1885
Act: The Four Holloways
1914-1918 Notes: Performed at Nottingham Empire 1915.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 18/12/15
HOLLOWAY, William
Relation: Son of George Holloway
ob: Acrobatic wire walkers, originated perpendicular ladder act 1885
Act: The Four Holloways
1914-1918 Notes: Performed at Nottingham Empire 1915.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 18/12/15
HOLLOWAY, Frederick Pte
Relation to: Son of Empire Theatre owners
1914-1918 Notes: Killed in Action
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 12/10/18
HOLLOWAY, William Pte
Relation to: Brother of Frederick Holloway
1914-1918 Notes: Served, Prisoner of War.
Regiment: Royal Warwickshire
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 12/10/18
HOLMES, Harry
Job: Bandmaster Bostock & Wombwell’s
1914-1918 Notes: Accident at Leeds Station.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 17/2/17
HUDSON, William Turner
Died: 13 Sept 1917
Job: Circus Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Toured with his circus, Turners in Ireland until his death, leaving his family to carry on.
Ref: D. p138
HUMMEL, James
1914-1918 Notes: Performed throughout war.
Ref: D. p139
HUMMEL, Florrie
Job: Equestrienne
1914-1918 Notes: Performed, at Tower Blackpool in 1915, Hengler’s Circus Glasgow 1917-18 season
Ref: D. p139
HUNTER, James
Died. Sept 1915, Age 30
Cause O.D.: Fire in Caravan
Job: Circus labourer at Tiffield.
Ref: N. Northampton Mercury
HUNTER, Richard H. Dr
Born: 1886 British Guiana
Job: Became Circus Doctor after war.
1914-1918 Notes: Served as orderly in French hospital
Ref: D. p139
JACKSON, Alf
Act: Grecian Maids
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Germany, Interned in Rulheben Camp.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/2/16
JAMESON, F. M. Corporal
Aka: Known as “Gilbert the Strong Man
Job: Strongman and Cowboy Performer
1914-1918 Notes: Killed in action
Military No.: 12760,
Machine Gun Corps
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 19/8/16 (photo)
JAMRACH, Albert
Died: Jan 1917
Job: Animal trader
1914-1918 Notes: Business hard hit.
Ref: N. Daily Mail 24/1/17
JAY, Eddie
Job: Character Comedian
1914-1918 Notes: Met up with friend of Frank Foster, at Cayaeux-sur-Mer, convalescent camp 1917.
Ref: B. (F F)
JENNINGS, Albert E
Job: Circus Groom to Fossett’s at Tiffield
1914-1918 Notes: Age 33 In breach of reserve Forces Act. Military escort from court to barracks, Northampton
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 22/4/16
JESERICH, Albert
Nationality: German
Born: Magdeburg
Job: Jocky, Joined Circus after War
1914-1918 Notes: Served in German Army
Regiment: Death’s Head Hussars, German light infantry unit
Ref: D. p145
“JINGO”
Nationality: Belgian
1914-1918 Notes: He and his wife were caught up in the German invasion at outbreak and escaped to Britain from Belgium in April 1915. Appointed resident manager The Palace Nairn.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 21/11/14
JOEL, Arthur
Job: Acrobat
1914-1918 Notes: Worked in Circus until 1915. Became an agent, producing and running pantomimes.
Ref: D. p145
JOYCE, Jack
1914-1918 Notes: Closed Wild West show in Denmark at outbreak of war, Opened up a show in Sweden Dec 1914.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 2/1/15
KAYES, Elizabeth “Lizzie”, Nee Baker
Born: 1878 Penzance
Married: William Kayes, 1899 Hamilton
Died: 23 Nov 1933
Related to: daughter of Thomas Baker
Job: Circus Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Due to all her Lion Tamer sons going to War, She had to take on the act and entered the Lion’s Cage. Had her last son, James born 14 June 1918, in a travelling waggon under a cherry tree at Lidbrook, Monmouthshire.
Ref: D. p152 and p155; N. (various) Yorkshire Eve Post 20/10/16, 21/10/16; O. NFCA
KAYES, Richard
Married: 24 Jan1916 Married Rose Sedgewick “Lion Queen” at Sheffield Cathedral,
Died: 1960
Related to: son of William Kayes and Harriet
Job: Equestrian
1914-1918 Notes: Wounded in active Service British Army.
Ref: D. p152
KAYES, TIMOTHY Pte
Married: Nancy Buckley
Job: Lion Tamer
1914-1918 Notes: 1916 arrested twice on showground, to Leeds court. Served with distinction, injured in May 1918 & lost left leg. Treated in 2 Napier Ward, East Leeds War Hospital, Harchills Road, Leeds. ( He returned to the cage with a crutch.
Military No.: 3779 15th West Yorks. He may also be linked to these numbers found in LFW: 76284 Royal Defense Corps or 3779; West Yorkshire Regiment.
Ref: D. p153; N. The World’s Fair, 20/10/16 and 18/5/18 and Leeds Mercury 3/10/16; O. NFCA
KAYES, Tommy
Aka: Captain Tommy Kayes
Born: 27 July 1901
Related to: Son of William Kayes and Elizabeth
Job: Lion Tamer
1914-1918 Notes: Lion Tamer – and Served in Army.
Ref: D. p153
KAYES, William
Aka: Buff Bill
Born: 1856 Peebles
Married: (1) Harriet Reader, (2) Elizabeth Baker
Died: 23 Nov 1933
Related to: Brother Richard Kayes
Job: Sharp Shooter, Proprietor Buff Bills A Wild West Show. Most of the animals & men and 3 sons to the Army.
1914-1918 Notes: Old Man during war, relied heavily on wife Elizabeth to manage business.
Ref: D. p152 ; N. Leeds Mercury, 3/10/16; O. NFCA
KAYES, William Jnr. “Billy”
Aka: Young Maccomo
Born: 1891
Died: 1960
Related to: Son of William Kayes and Harriet
Job: Lion Tamer
1914-1918 Notes: Worked with lions until 1916 when arrested with brother Tommy for failing to register for Army. 1917 Active service.
Ref: D. 153; N. The World’s Fair, 20/10/16
KELLY, Emmett
1914-1918 Notes: Lived in America during war. He has an autobiography ‘Clown’ which may be of interest.
Ref: D. p154
KEMPSTER, Frederick John
Aka: The English Giant
Born: 13 April 1889
Died: 15 April 1918 Blackburn
Cause O.D.: Influenza/Pneumonia
Job: Giant 7feet 9.3 inches
1914-1918 Notes: In Germany at outbreak of war – Under house arrest for 1 month, returned to U.K
Ref: O. D. The World’s Fair, 20/4/18
KIDSON, J.H. Lce-Cpl
1914-1918 Notes: Died of pneumonia at A.V.C. No. 11, Veterinary Hospital, Salonica Forces.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 2/11/18
KIRK, George
Aka: Spud
Born: 14 Oct 1884
Married: Rosie Silbon
Job: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 with Bostock’s Royal Italian Circus for tour S Africa – Far East for duration
Ref: D. p275
KLEINSCHMIDT, Otto Paul
Aka: Paul Otto
Nationality: German
Married: Mary Fossett
Died: 1942
Job: Mixed skills with Fossett’s
1914-1918 Notes: Interned P.O.W, Douglas, Isle of Man. Wife witness to tragic death by fore of co-worker
Ref: D. p208 N. Northampton Mercury 17/9/15
KLUDSKY, CIRZUS
Nationality: Czech
1914-1918 Notes: The war stopped Kludsky’s one of the biggest circuses in Europe. People were dispersed, animals requistioned or starved.
Ref: O. CP
KLUIKOYSKE, August
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: Age 52, Working with Bostock & Wombwell’s, In court for failing to check in with a local police station as a registered alien citizen. Allowed to continue working and returned to Menagerie and care of it’s manager.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 12/2/14
KNIGHT, George
Born: 1894
Job: Equestrian & female impersonator
1914-1918 Notes: 1914-15 at Worlds Fair Islington, Went to Ireland with Edward Fossett in 1917 dressed as a woman. He had no taste for soldiering.
Ref: D. p158
KNIGHT, Albert Edward, Pte
1914-1918 Notes: Served
Military Service #: 38094
Regiment: Royal Berkshire Regiment
KŌNYÖT (Alexander) & FAMILY
Nationality: Hungarian
Related to: Alexander, Son of Leopold Konyot and Henrietta Blumenfeld
Act: Various
1914-1918 Notes: Family were scouted by Fred & Edna Bradna in Budapest in 1913 and brought to America, performing throughout war.
Ref: B. (B F); D. p160
“KOKO”
See: SLAVONA
“LA BELLE ZOE”
1914-1918 Notes: Adorned her body with tattoos depicting the Great War and by Dec 1916, was exhibiting them with narratives. Managed by Mr. Staley.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 23/16/1916
LEATHERHEAD, Frank William
Job: Manager R Fossett Farm Tiffield
1914-1918 Notes: 1916 aged 26, Fossett applies for his continued exemption from Enlistment.
Ref: N. Northampton Mercury, 23/3/16
LEITZEL, Lillian
Nationality: Hungarian/Czech
Born: 2 Jan 1892, Breslau, Germany
Married: x 3
Died: 1931
Job: Aerialist
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 Starred as “Queen of the Circus” with Barnum & Bailey
LEMY, Carl
Nationality: American
Act: Lemy Troupe Aerialists
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 In Australia
Ref: N. (New York Clipper) 21/11/14
LESTER, John
Nationality: American
Born: New York, USA
Job: Aerialist in Family Act
Act: Four Lesters – with his wife and 2 children.
1914-1918 Notes: Arrived England 1915 with Four Lesters
Ref: D. p168
LEWIS, Jack Cpl.
Job: with Bostock’s Circus
1914-1918 Notes: Enlisted June 1915, Letter to World’s Fair
Military No.: 8447
Regiment: 10th Warwicks, 19th Division
Ref: D. O. N. The World’s Fair, 12/1/18
LINSLEY, Jack
Born: 1896 Durham
Job: Musical Director later with Barnum
1914-1918 Notes: Served as signaller.
Regiment: Irish Guards
Ref: N. A F
LISTER, Carl Lisando
1914-1918 Notes: Age 33, In court for failing to enlist, handed over to Army.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 5/10/18
“LITTLE LADY”, Madamoiselle
Nationality: French
Job: 25” tall side show performer
1914-1918 Notes: Sold ( not yet adult?) by French Parents to Sam Gumpertz, Dream Land Coney Island, for $4,000 arrived New York Sept 1916, for L Harvre.
Ref: B. (P N)
LLOYD, Cyril
Aka: Brothers Lloyd
Born: c. 1894
Died: 1918 age 24
Job: Tight Rope walker
1914-1918 Notes: Served,
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 23/2/18
LOCKHART, George
Born: 1883 Deptford, London
Died: 8 Oct 1978
Job: Ringmaster
1914-1918 Notes: British Army
Ref: D. p172
LOLÉ
Nationality: French?
Relation: Brother-in-law to Grock
Act: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Left act with Grock 1914 to serve in the Army.
Ref: B. (G)
LORCH, Family
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: In Britain at outbreak of War, arrested as hostile foreigners
Ref: B. (O M)
LORENZO, Fred
1914-1918 Notes: Changed his name during the war
Ref: D. p174
LOYAL, Alfred & Leris
1914-1918 Notes: Performed through war.
Ref: D. p175
LUALE, Jack?
Aka: Jack Luck, Chief Luale
Nationality: South African
Born: 1899
Died: 30 April 1935 Louth
Cause O.D.: Pneumonia:
Job: Performer in ethnographic act in with African Village Exhibit.
1914-1918 Notes: African, soldier served in war, was gassed and badly wounded, returned to show business
Regiment: Middlesex Regiment
Ref: D. p176
LUCAS, Harry
Aka: Little Luko
Died: 4 August 1923
Job: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 with Ginnett and Luco’s Empire Circus. Miniature Circus.
Ref: D. p176
MACCOMA, Albert
See: WILLIAMS, Albert
MANDERS, Albert
Aka: Captain Lamberetti
Married: c. 1905 Annie
Died: 1940 Solihull
Job: Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: Worked during war, eldest daughter, Edna died in 1916 aged 10, youngest daughter Dolly born 1917
Ref: D. p181
MANDERS, George
1914-1918 Notes: Married during war.
Ref: D. p181
MANDERS, William
Job: With Mander’s Menagerie
1914-1918 Notes: Served in No. 6 Veterinary Hospital, Pitt Camp Corner, Winchester
Regiment: Royal Army Veterinary Corps
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 21/7/17, 29/7/16 (photo)
“MANITOS”
See: GREY, E.S.
MARCELLA, Mrs
Married: Captain Clark
Act: Welsh Giantess
1914-1918 Notes: Widow, performed during war. In Derby 1915,
Ref: D. p184
MARCHARDE de MARCH, Yvonne
Born c. 1905
Job: run into lions cage to help father in show.
1914-1918 Notes: June 1915 Subject of court case in Clerkenwell, father being prosecuted for putting child in dangerous act. Act banned.
MARINICOVIKE, Stevean
Nationality: Serbian
Job: Showwoman
1914-1918 Notes: Age 37 she was in court for causing obstruction in a street, while performing with a bear, girl and monkey.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 6/1/17
MARTELLONI SISTERS
Job: Acrobats
1914-1918 Notes: 1915-16 at Waverley Market, Edinburgh,
Ref: D. p185
MATTHIES, Rudolf
Nationality: German
Job: Assistant to Richard Sawade
Ref: D. p186,
McALLISTER, William Lauder
Aka: Doodles/Espana
Born: 1977 Glasgow
Job: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Raised money for the Cigarettes for Soldiers Fund during war by selling postcards of himself. Performed with Bobby “August” Elliot from 1915
Ref: D. p85
McCormick, James
Married: Susan Hudson, c. Nov 1914
Job: Both worked for Turner Hudson’s Circus.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 2/12/14
McDONALD, Walter
Nationality: Canadian/British
Born: c. 1897
Related to: Mother was a Canadian Native American,
Job: Wild West Performer
1914-1918 Notes: Age 17, with a circus in Paris when war broke out, travelled to Scotland, beaten up at Armadale, enroute to join Fossett’s. People thought he was a German spy, wearing full american Indian costume.
Ref: N. Linlithgow Gazette, 4/9/14
MERK, Clemens
Nationality: German
Born: 29 August 1900
Died: 21 April 1994
Job: Lion Tamer after war
1914-1918 Notes: German Armed Forces.
Ref: D. p190
“MEXICANS, THREE”
Act: Wild West Act
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war, inc. at Agricultural Hall, Islington 1915-16
Ref: D. p191
MIER, Carlos
1914-1918 Notes: Trained horses for the War.
Ref: D. p192
MILLS, Bertram Wagstaff
Born: 1872
Died: 16 April 1938
Job: Harness maker & carriage builder, formed Circus immediately after the war.
1914-1918 Notes: Commissioned as a Captain, R.A.S.C, Forage Department other notes suggest Royal Army Medical Corps.
Regiment: R.A.S.C
Ref: Multiple
MIZUNO ( lead by Shiro Wattabikki)
Aka: Mizuno Troupe
Nationality: Japanese
Job: Acrobats
1914-1918 Notes: Came to England 1913 – on continent at outbreak of war, returned to England during War, 1916-17 season at Hengler;s Circus Glasgow.
Ref: D. p194
MONGADORS
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during the war.
Ref: D. p195
MONTANA BILL
Nationality: Okalala American Indian/French Canadian
Job: Sharp Shooter
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war, became known as William Montana Bailey in 1917
Ref: D. p195
MONTANA, Frank
Nationality: Canadian
Job: rope spinner, whip cracking, genuine cowboy
1914-1918 Notes: Served Canadian Army severely wounded.
Regiment: 93rd Canadian Infantry
Ref: D. p195
MOONEY, Mat, Pte
1914-1918 Notes: Served
Military No.: 51310,
Regiment: 86th Labour Co, 3rd Plat BEF
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/10/18, Letter
MORAS
1914-1918 Notes: Performed war Ref: D. p195
MORIARTY, John
Aka: Irish Hercules
Job: Strongman & Musician
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with Duffy and Son’s Big Circus 1917-18
Ref: D. p196
MORRIS, Bros.
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Germany, Interned in Rulheben Camp.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/2/16
NEWSOME, R., Pte
1914-1918 Notes: wounded, hit in the
back with shrapnel
Military No.: 175073,
Regiment: Advance Siege Park, 5th
Army Service Corps, B.E.F., France
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 18/11/16
(photo)
NIKITIN, Nickolai Akimevich
Nationality: Russian
Born: 1887
Died: 1963
Related to: Son of Akin Nikitin
Job: Juggler on horseback
1914-1918 Notes: on death of father in 1917 became manager of Nikitin Circus. 1917 Bolshevick revolution, circuses nationalised, Nikitin Circus became Moscow’s 2nd State Circus. 1919 in Italy to be a juggler on horseback,
Ref: O. CP
NOVELLO, Armando
Aka: Toto
Nationality: Italian/German
Married: Hannah Frick
Job: Mixed Skills/Clown
1914-1918 Notes: Moved from London to USA to perform.
Ref: D. p292
OHMY (SMITH), Joseph
Aka: King Ohmy, real name Smith
Related to: Father of Claude and Ada Ohmy
Job: Circus Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: With Carré’s Circus when war broke out. Property seized by Germans and interned in Doeberitz, Berlin for short time with family. Secured release, returned to Britain with 2 adult daughters oct 1914. Continued to work.
Ref: D. p204; N. Multiple inc Hull Daily Mail 28/10/14
Note: Ohmy/Smith Family archive at National Fairground Archive, not yet available to researchers.
OHMY (SMITH), Ada
Born: 1881
Died: 1918
Cause O.D.: Post Traumatic Stress, Internment
Related to: daughter of King Ohmy, John Smith
Job: Equestrienne, Sharp Shooter
1914-1918 Notes: Interned with Family in Doeberitz, Berlin, for about 1 month. Returned,to Britain. Performed Feb 1916, bridesmaid to sister Lilly, March 1916. Never recovered from experience in Berlin. Death was put down to this trauma.
Ref: D. p204; N. multiple inc. The World’s Fair, The Era, Derby Daily Telg., 26/2/1916
OHMY (SMITH), Claude
Born: 1897 Southport
Married: No
Cause O.D.:
Related to: Son of King Ohmy, John Smith
Job: Equestrian
1914-1918 Notes: Interned with Family in Doeberitz, Berlin. Family were relased. Moved to Ruhleben Internment Camp November 1914. Released 1918 after war, returned to Blackpool. Reported story to World’s Fair of experiences including ‘mental decontamination’ process on return.
Ref: D. p204; N. The World’s Fair, 2/12/18
OHMY (SMITH), Lilly
Married: John Sanger, March 1916
Related to: daughter of King Ohmy, John Smith
1914-1918 Notes: Interned with Family in Doeberitz, Berlin. returned to Britain Oct 1914.
Ref: D. p204; N. The World’s Fair, 11/3/16 and 2/12/18
OHMY (SMITH), Minnie
Married: Herbert Sanger
Died: 1941
Related to: daughter of King Ohmy, John Smith
Ref: D. p204
OMA, Madame
Nationality: Russian
Job: Trapeze artist
1914-1918 Notes: World tour 1914/. Performed with Ginnett’s Royal Circus, June 1915 at Perth
Ref: N. Perthshire Advertiser, 12/6/15
“OMI”
See: RIDDLER
OLSON, Hugo Olaf
1914-1918 Notes: 1917 started the Partree Acrobatic Act
Ref: D. p206
OSBORNE, J, “Ginger” Pte.
1914-1918 Notes: 1918 wounded after 3 yrs 7 mths in France.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 27/4/18
PABLO, Edward Charles, Pte
Aka: Edward “Ted” Fanque
Married: Alexandra Howard, Oct 1915
Related to: Father William Darby aka Pablo Fanque
1914-1918 Notes: Lobbied Kitchener so fit over 45 year olds could enlist, until early on in 1915 tried to join up as part of the “45 and over” Battalion organised by E. S. Day, Esq., of Rowlands Castle, Hants. Succeeded to enlist in July 1915. Lightning marriage, in October in 3 day leave, based at Aldershot. with Mechanical Transport. Badly injured in France, to 3rd Canadian Hospital Bologne – to hospital in Chatham. Discharged.
Military No.: 124391,
Regiment: 32nd Co, 2nd ”1” Section A.S.C
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 15/5/15, 16/10/15, 1/2/16, 1/4/16
PANDILLA, Rafael
Aka: Chocolat
Nationality: Cuban ( initially a Slave, sold to Spain)
Born: 1865/68
Died: 4 November 1917
Job: Clown
Act: Foottit et Chocolat
1914-1918 Notes: Died Bordeaux, with out any means, paupers grave.
Ref: O. CP
PALLENBERG, Emil
Nationality: German
Job: Bear Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: Working In America. Mentioned by Fred Bradna in feud with English clown Ernie Anderson
Ref: B. (B F)
PAULO (BUTCHER), Frank
Aka: Frisco Frank
Married: Clara (b. 6 March 1885)
Died: 1927
Job: Small Circus Owner
1914-1918 Notes: Struggled through Ireland during troubles, returned to Britain, Enlisted. Family struggled at home.
Ref: B. (C-C R); D. p215
PAULHAN
Nationality: French
Job: Circus Performer
1914-1918 Notes: Pilot in French Air Force. one of the first famous flying men.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair,
PEARSON, Archie
Job: Horse rider
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Germany, Interned in Rulheben Camp.
Ref: N. Sheffield Independent 19/12/19 (in relates to c. October 1916 event)
PEARSON, Alf
Job: Horse rider
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Germany, Interned in Rulheben Camp.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/2/16
PEDERSON, Anders
Nationality: Danish
Born: Copenhagen
Job: Sea lion trainer
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with sea lions at Worlds Fair, islington in 1915-16 season,
Ref: D. p218
PERMAINE, William Vincent
Job: Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: in court for feeding bears bread.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 16/2/18
PESTER, John
Nationality: American
1914-1918 Notes: American performed during war
Ref: D. p168
PESTERSON, Anderson
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war
Ref: D. p217
PETERS, Willy
Nationality: German
Died: 1959
Job: Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: Worked big cats with Hagenbeck, filling the gap with polar bears when circus in Sweden.
Ref: B. (H L); p218
PEREZOFF
Aka:Seven Pezeroffs
Nationality: French
Job: Comedy Jugglers
1914-1918 Notes: N Pezeroff at Tower Circus in 1915. June 1918 a Perezoff in court for alleged infringement of Grock’s music hall sketch, with a sketch known as “Noni & Partner.”
Ref: D. p217; N. The World’s Fair 15/6/18
PHILLIPS, Charlie Sergeant
Born: 3 October 1889
Related to: Brother of Jack
1914-1918 Notes: Dardanelles
Regiment: Australian Corps, promoted for bravery to Sergeant in Dardanelles on 26th Birthday.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 16/10/15
PHILLIPS, Jack
Related to: Brother of Charlie
Job: Ring King
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with Headley’s Franco-British
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 16/10/15
PICKERING, J. Russell, Captain
Aka: Pick Pickering
Died: 1947
Job: Later General Manager Bertram Mills
1914-1918 Notes: Served
Regiment: Royal Army Signal Corps
Ref: D. p219
PILATES, Joseph Hubertus
Nationality: German
Job: Circus Trainer, Boxer, gymnast
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 circus was caught out travelling in Blackpool. Arrested in Sept 1914 as an enemy alien. Registered index number 1400. He was interned at jersey , Lancaster in derelict waggons and then finally in Knockaloe, Isle of Man. He occupied himself and others with physical exercise to combat ill health.
Ref: O. knockaloe.im
“PIMPLE”
See: EVANS, Frederick William
“PIMPO”
See: FREEMAN, Jimmy
PINDER, Susan
Born: 13 July 1877
Married: remarried Spud Kirk
1914-1918 Notes: Toured with Bostock’s Royal Italian Circus 1914-1923 with Husband and Children inc. Leslie and George Ord Pinder.
Ref: D. p224
PINDER, Thomas Ord
Born: 30 July 1989
Died: 5 July 1988
Job: Aerialist
1914-1918 Notes: War put a stop to circus He toured many halls and theatres with his act.
Ref: D. p224
PINDER, William
Born: 1828
Died: 1916
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 22/1/16
POLIAKOFF, Nikolai
Aka: Coco the Clown
Nationality:
Born: 1900 Dvinsk, Russia
Married: 1918
Job: Clown, acrobat
1914-1918 Notes: Enlisted, child soldier – was in 5 different Armies including Ukranian, Russian, Red & White, between 1915 and 1920, some voluntarily because he was hungary.
Ref: B. (Coco) Also BBC Desert Island Disks Archive
POTTERS FAMILY
Aka: Six Peerless Potters
1914-1918 Notes: 1914-15 and 1915-16 seasons with Fossett’s at Agricultural Hall, Islington.
Ref: D. p227
POWELL, Claude
Born: 1880 Rochdale
Job: Circus Proprietor
Married: Dora Letsche ( German)
1914-1918 Notes: Exemption denied in court Birmingham mid 1917, In British Armed Services
Ref: D. p227; N. Birmingham Mail 20/1/17
PRENTICE, ALbert, Cpl
Aka: Tiddles
Job: Clown
Act: Les Zeimars
1914-1918 Notes: Joined up April 1915, Winchester
Military No.: 32594
Regiment: 19th Welsh Pioneer Regiment
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 18/9/15
PRINCE-COX, Albert James
Born: 8 Aug 1880 Southsea
Job: Circus & variety promotor
1914-1918 Notes: 1913 – 1918 Royal Navy
Ref: D. p228
PROCTOR, George James
Born: 1857
Died: 1926
Act: Gymnast and Rope walker
1914-1918 Notes: 1914/15 season at Stadium Barrow in Furness,
Ref: D. p229
PROSKE, Roman
Nationality: Austrian
Born: 1898
Job: Lion Tamer
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Africa working as a lion tamer, age 16, smuggled himself back to Austria, joined Austrian Infantry in September 1916, fought Russians in Poland. Wounded in 1918, discharged. Returned to Circus. Account in his biography.
Ref: B. (P R)
PUGH, Wally
Aka: “Digger”
Nationality: Australian?
Born: Northampton
Job: Acrobat aerialist
1914-1918 Notes: 1916 selling newspapers then sailed to Australia, joined Australian Services, served in France.
Ref: D. p231
PURCHASE, John
Born: 1892 Cranbrook, Kent
Job: Menagerist Manager
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 went to South Africa with Bostock’s Royal Italian Circus for 3 1/2 years. In India 1917, At Singapore joined HM Forces, invalided out with malaria.
Ref: D. p231; N. The World’s Fair, 19/5/17
PURCHASE, William
Aka: Captain Purchase
Born: 1883
Died: 1951
Job: Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: 1916 went to America, to join Barnum Bailey Show
Ref: D. p232
QUINN, D, Pte
1914-1918 Notes: Served & injured in 1915 stationed to Soldier’s Home Caterham Surrey. See letter to World’s Fair about his experiences, 1/1/16.
Military No.: 15230
Regiment: No 4 Co, 3rd Battalion Coldstream Guards. B.E.F.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 29/5/15, 1/1/16,
QUINN, Johnny, Drummer
Born: 1873
Died: 1951
Job: singing clown & impromptu artist
1914-1918 Notes: Enlisted 8 Aug 1914, Landed and served 18 months in Dardenelles & injured before Feb 1916. No 28 General Hospital ( probably in Salonika). Returned to Tipperary, Dec16/Jan17. Performed with daughter Annie, March 1917 at Hospital.
Regiment: Muster Fusiliers.
Ref: D. p233; N. The World’s Fair, 3/1/17 and 10/3/17
RABBITT, Drummer
May also be: SCHOLES, Jack
1914-1918 Notes: Served
Regiment: 2/4th Northants
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 28/8/15
RASTELLE, Enrico
Born: Samara, Russia
Married: Stella Price 1917
Job: Juggler
1914-1918 Notes: 1915 joined Circus Truzzi for first job as solo juggler, Married 1917, Fled to Italy result of War and Russian Revolution
Ref: D. p236
RAYNOR, James
Aka: Royal Raynor Troupe
1914-1918 Notes: Joined up 1914 training at Scarborough, discharged in 1919.
Regiment: 18th Royal Hussars
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 28/8/15
RENYOLDS, Butch
See: BURRAGE
RIDDLER, Horace Leonard
Aka: Omi the Great
1914-1918 Notes: Acting Major British Army
Regiment: Machine Gun Squadron
Ref: D. p206
RITCHER, Rosa M.
Aka: Zazel the Human Canonball, ( Mrs George Star)
1914-1918 Notes: Arrived USA July 1916 from Europe on the Liner Philidelphia
Ref: B. (P N)
ROSSAIRE (ROSS), Fred
Aka: Count Rossaire, Ross Combination
Born: 1877
Married: Florence Arnold
Died: 1949
1914-1918 Notes: In Ireland with tent-less circus, packed up, returning through burnt out Dublin, Easter Rising. Became a miner.
Ref: B. (B N); D. p250
ROSSAIRE, Florence
Aka: Countess Rossaire
Born: 5 June 1877
Married: Fred Ross
Died: 1972
1914-1918 Notes: As above
Ref: B. (B,N); D. p250
ROSSI, Alfred, Signor
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war. RSPCA took him to court due to death of elephant.
Ref: The World’s Fair, 15/12/17
ROLAND, Florence
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war
Ref: D. p252
ROXBROUGH, Tom
1914-1918 Notes: 4 November 1914 Interned at Ruhleben. He had been touring with Frederick the Great at the start of the War.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 3/7/15
SACCOMANI, Dennis Peters, Pte
Related to: Brother to John and Walter (below)
1914-1918 Notes: 1916 in Redhill Camp., Colchester, Severely Gassed, Hospital in France
Military No.: 37688
Regiment: 2nd 10th Manchester’s BEF
Ref: D. p254; N. The World’s Fair, 3/6/16 (photo)
SACCOMANI, John Peters, Pte
1914-1918 Notes: 1916 in Cavalry Depot, Canterbury
Military No.: 2163,
Regiment: 6th Dragoon Guards, “D” Squadron
Ref: D. p254; N. The World’s Fair, 3/6/16 (photo)
SACCOMANI, Walter Peters, Pte
1914-1918 Notes: 1916 serving
Military Service #: 2810
Regiment: His Majesty’s Transport,
Ref: D. p254; N. The World’s Fair, 3/6/16 (photo)
SADLER, G.T.
Job: Bear man with Tyrwitt-Drake.
1914-1918 Notes: served in same unit as Tyrwitt-Drake
Regiment: Royal Veterinary Corps
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 21/7/17
SALDECK Troupe
Act: Cyclists
1914-1918 Notes: Performing early 1915, Calcutta with Harmston’s Circus.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 6/2/15
SANCHEZ, Foster
Job: Circus Artist & Musician
1914-1918 Notes: age 31 in court, for abusing/neglecting family.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair,
SANDOW, Eugen
Nationality: Naturalised British
Died: 1925
Job: Strongman and Physical Fitness trainer Business man
1914-1918 Notes: Business suffered as a result of German heritage. Series of court cases. Wrongly reported in Jan 1916 as German Spy executed at the The Tower of London.
Ref: B. (W D)
SANDOW, The Young
See: BRATBY, Richard
SANGER, Edward
Related to: Son of James Sanger
1914-1918 Notes: Lieut. Edward Sanger, won MC at Delville Wood, returned to circus 1919
Ref: D. p259
SANGER, John
Aka: Lord John
Born: 1854
Married: Rebecca Pinder
Died: 1927
Job: Circus Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Sanger’s Circus was one of the largest in Britain it stopped touring in Jan/feb1917, having lost 170 horses, 47 luggage wagons to the Army and the war reducing staff from 150 to 5. In Dec 1918 he restarted circus without the wagon. The waggon’s gold was stripped off and were left to rot. This was the end of the great circus parades in Britain.
Ref: D. p258; N. The World’s Fair, 17/2/17
SANGER, John
Married: Lilly Ohmy, March 1916
Relation: Son of Lord John Sanger
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 11/316
SANGER, George, Mr.
1914-1918 Notes: At outbreak of war returned to Farm at Horley, toured for much of the war.
Ref: Multiple B. (F F)
SANGER, Victoria Florence”Vicki”
Born: 28 Sept 1895
Married: 1917 James Freeman, Clown
Died: 1991
Related to: Daughter of George Sanger
Job: Bareback rider
1914-1918 Notes: Performed and eloped.
Ref: D. p259
SANGER, George Jnr.
Married: Poppet Ginnett 18 Jan 1928
Related to: Son of George Sanger
Job: All rounder
1914-1918 Notes: School boy at Forrest Hill House until 1916, joined Suffolk Regiment, served France, de-mobed 1919
Ref: D. p258
SANGER, Herbert
1914-1918 Notes: With George Sanger 1914
Ref: B. (F F)
SARARSANI, Hans Stosch
Nationality: German
Job: Circus Propretor
1914-1918 Notes: Sarrasani Circus stopped enroute to Holland Performers from foreign countries were forced to leave if not deported. Circus stranded in Essen, returned to Dresden. Produced shows, toured to Denmark in 1915, animals used in films 1915-17. Made patriotic pantomimes.
Ref: O. CP
SARGENT, Frederick, Cpt
Nationality: American
1914-1918 Notes: Proposed to set up a contingent of more than 1000 Big Top Showmen, in US Army, France Aug 1917. He recruited most of the men in Chicago at the outdoor show conventions, mainly from 3 circuses. He then managed the contingent.
Ref: N. NY Clipper, 12/9/17
SARONG, Madame
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during War
Ref: D. p259
“SARRAQUA” Blackfoot
Job: Weightlifting feats with teeth
1914-1918 Notes:
Wrongly Arrested as spy at Inverkeithing Theatre – released.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair,
SAWADE, Richard
Nationality: German
Born: 1867 Drossen
Job: Wild Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: At outbreak of war left South America for Berlin and safety of Hagenbeck’s. Worked for duration of war, including in Sweden with Tigers, retired in 1919
Ref: B. (H L)
SCHERRA, Emil
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: Served in German Army.
Ref: B. (O M)
SCHNEIDER, Captain
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war
Ref: D. p261
SCHOENE, Paul
Nationality: American
1914-1918 Notes: Joined American Navy 1917
Ref: N. NY Clipper, 16/6/17
SCHOLES, Jack
Aka: Rabbitt, Clown
Cause O.D.:
Related to:
Job: Rider
1914-1918 Notes: Aged 17 joined up, wounded at Ypres. Injury prevented him from riding, became clown
Regiment: Royal Welsh Fusiliers,
Ref: D. p234; N. The World’s Fair, 28/7/1917
SCHUMANN, Herr
1914-1918 Notes: Used P.O.Ws in his show in Berlin to enact battle scene.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair 12/11/1915
SCOTT, George
Job: Comic Juggler
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Germany, Interned in Ruhleben Camp.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/2/16
SCRIBER, Baptista
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war
Ref: D. p261
SEDGEWICK, Arthur
Born: 1880
Married: Harriet Clark
Died: 1961
Job: Menagerie Keeper
1914-1918 Notes: He retired his beasts to Belle Vue Zoo, Manchester
Ref: D. p265
SEDGEWICK, Rose
Married: Richard Kayes 24 Jan 1916
Job: Equestrienne
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war. Two Children Norah, 1916 and Billy 1918.
Ref: D. p152
SELBINI, Tom
1914-1918 Notes: Performed war.
Ref: D. p265
SERANO & JUNE
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war.
Ref: D. p265
SHOVELTON
Aka: “Pimple”
Died: 1918
SHUFFLEBOTTOM, John Potter
Aka: Texas Jack
Born: c.1899
Married: Polly Sheldon
Relation: Son of Wm. Shufflebottom
Job: Rider ‘Rifle Bill’s Wild West’
1914-1918 Notes: Performer with father’s Wild West show. Took on show in 1916. Frequently reported to military boards as evading service, but was released as he was responsible for large family of young siblings, as well as the family business. Later c.1917 with the show ponies/horses doing war work in the Hampshire forest, taking wood to the mill, for pit heads and coffins.
Ref: D. p288; F. Margaret Wilby (Niece)
SHUFFLEBOTTOM, Margaret
Born: c.1898
Married: 1 – John Willie Waddington, 2 – Arthur Baird
Relation: Daughter of Wm. Shufflebottom
Job: “ Red Indian” in ‘Rifle Bill’s Wild West’ show.
1914-1918 Notes: child performer being shot at by sibling “cowgirl” performers in father’s Wild West show. At age 17, in western hat, with horse and cart (Margaret says there is a film in IWM of this scene) taking hot meal to her elder brother John, c.1918, who was working in the Hampshire forrest. She was told the wood was for sea plane floats. Later realised wood also was for coffins. Said very hard work for the families circus ponies as they were “stars” not suited to the war work.
Ref: F. Margaret Wilby (Daughter)
SHUFFLEBOTTOM, Rosina
Married: Bill Shufflebottom
Died: 1937
1914-1918 Notes: Upon William’s death Rosina stopped performing and turned her endeavours to managing the family business with her eldest son, John aka ‘Texas Jack’. They continued travelling the ‘Shufflebottom’s Wild West Show’, with 5 sons and 5 daughters, in Surrey and Sussex, until the great snowfall of 1917 wrecked their tent.
Ref: D. ? O. NFCA
SHUFFLEBOTTOM, William “Bill”
Aka: “Texas Bill”
Born: 1850s
Married: Rosina Jane Bishop
Died: 1915
Cause O.D.: Cerebral hemorrhage
Buried: Milford Cemetery,
Job: Rider, Proprietor ‘Rifle Bill’s Wild West’
1914-1918 Notes: Performer until died shortly after falling from horse in the ring, Milford, Surrey. Coroner’s verdict “open” as to cause of hemorrhage (natural or accidental)
Ref: D. p288; N. The World’s Fair, & Surrey Advertiser 30/10/15; O. NFCA
SLAVONA, Harry
Born: 1904 Alloa
1914-1918 Notes: Debut in 1915 in Kirkcaldy Links. With Robert Fossett in 1916 at Agricultural Hall, Islington.
Ref: D. p159
SLAVONA, William
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war
Ref: D. p254
SLOAN, Harry
Aka: Harry Yelding
Job: Stilt-walking clowns
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war.
Ref: D. p270
SMART, Billy
Born: 25 April 1894
Married: Dolly
Related to: Son of Charles Smart
1914-1918 Notes:Set up as a fairground Proprietor
Ref: D. p270
SMITH, Charles Wilfred, Sapper
Married: Daughter of Captain Payne
Died: 31 July 1917
Act: Ex of Lomas Troupe
1914-1918 Notes: Killed in action age 30.
Regiment: Royal Engineers
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 18/8/17
SMITH Jackie
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war
Ref: D. p273
SMITH, S Cpl.
Job: Pier Diver
1914-1918 Notes: Head of Bombing party at Hooge.
Ref: N. 3/7/15
SOSMAN, Jean
Nationality: Belgian
1914-1918 Notes: Refugee Circus family, fled to Britain. In court Dec 1915 for abuse of his horse. Performing at Hengler’s 1916.
Ref: N. Coventry Eve. Telg. 6/12/15
SOWLER, Arthur, Major
Born: c. 1876
Died: 1952
Job: Became Equestrian & horse trainer, Bertram Mills after war.
1914-1918 Notes: In British Armed Services then joined Mills circus after the war
Ref: D. p274
SPADONI, Paul
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war
Ref: D. p274
“SPUD”
See: KIRK, George
STAFFORD, Bros.
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 in Germany, Interned in Ruhleben Camp.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/2/16
STANEY, Leo
Job: Lion Tamer
1914-1918 Notes: Jan 1917 age 19, arrested in full military uniform, charged as absentee, fined £2, handed over to military.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 13/1/17
STEBBING, Edwin
Born: 1882
Died: 1932
Act: Stebbing Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: Possibly Warrant Officer Class 1 Edwin A Stebbing
Military No.: 1908
Regiment: Royal Warwickshire
Ref: D. p278; O. LFW
STEBBING, George
Born: 1880
Died: 1945
Related to: Son of Francis John
Job: Acrobat
Act: Stebbing Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: No Information
Ref: D. p278
STEBBING, James Edward
Aka: Master Jackie Stebbing
Born: 1882
Died: 1932
Related to: Son of Edwin Francis
Job: Rider
Ref: D. p278
STEBBING, Percy W
Born: 25 Oct 1885
Married: Twice
Died: 11 May 1948
Job: Acrobat
Act: Stebbing Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: Joined 1915,
British Armed Services, injured in France and unable to take up his old profession.
Ref: D p278
STECKLES, John
Nationality: Danish
Born: c.1875
Ref: D. p279
STECKLES, Frederick
Nationality: Danish
Born: 1900
Job: Acrobat
Act: Steckles Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: Started with Circus Schmidt in 1917
Ref: D. p279
STEPHENSON, Frank
Job: Clown – Continental August, Rider & acrobat
1914-1918 Notes: 19 April 1915 on the way to Margate with tents etc, a lighted fire lamp set fire to hay and burned the whole lot.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 24/4/15
STOREY, Alice
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war.
Ref: D. p282
STRASBURGER, Family
Nationality: German
1914-1918 Notes: In Sweden at outbreak of war, lost staff who all joined various armies, returned to Magdeburg.
Ref: B. (O M)
STYLO & Amelia SWALLOW
Act: Duo
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war.
Ref: D. p283
SUTCLIFFE, Alf
1914-1918 Notes: Sutcliffe Family, doing their bit encouraging others to join up. Not sure when they will return to America.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 9/1/15
Ref: D. p282
SWALLOW, Johnny
Aka: Broncho Bill
Born: 1873
Died: 1945
Job: Equestrian, Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Wanted to hire out 50 coloured ponies for light work 1914. Trained military riders. Exempted from service as doing work of national importance – entertaining the public. Reduced size of circus during the war, then became a government horse buyer.
Ref: B. M-S R and T-W 3; D. p284
SWEENY, James
1914-1918 Notes: In Army. Cent chatty letters to World’s Fair listing all the people he would like to hear from.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 8/9/17, 27/10/17
SWIFT, William
Job: Elephant man at Tiffield (Fossett’s Farm)
1914-1918 Notes: Age 40 In breach of reserve Forces Act. Military escort from court to barracks, Northampton
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 22/4/16
SYDENHAM, Capt
Job: Acrobat
1914-1918 Notes: age 38 request for renewal of exemption.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 6/7/18
SYLVESTER, Otto
Aka: “Texas Harry”
Died: 28 Nov 1918
1914-1918 Notes: Enlisted 1914, Fought at Armentieres, badly wounded at La Bassée Returned to shows driving a tractor. Died at home, Military funeral.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 14/12/18
TAIBOSH, Franz
Aka: “CLIKO”
Nationality: South African British, Korana
Job: Ethnographic
Act: Wild Dancing Bushman
1914-1918 Notes: Sideshow performer and indentured worker, Manager Hepston. Worked in Britain, Ireland Cuba and America, Possibly also Spain and Jamaica, was rescued/stolen/released in 1918 to work with RBBB.
Ref: B. (P N)
TAYLOR, ?
Aka: Zeedah, the Mysterious Indian Talking Head
1914-1918 Notes: In British Armed Services
Ref: B. (V T)
TAYLOR, Captain
1914-1918 Notes: presented Lockhart’s Elephants at Blackpool Tower Circus April 1916.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 29/4/16
TAYLOR, David
Act: David Taylor’s Mexican Circus
1914-1918 Notes: His Circus closed down due to the war 1914.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair,
TAYLOR, D. J. Bombardier
Died: 1 Aug 1917
Related to: Son of David Taylor.
1914-1918 Notes: Killed, Letter to parents from C.O. published in World’s Fair.
Regiment: Shrops RHA
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 18/8/17
TAYLOR, Victor Edward White
Aka: Vic Taylor
Born: 1900
Related to: Son of Zeedah
Job: Showman
1914-1918 Notes: In British Armed Services
Military No.: Royal Navy F48654, RAF 248654
Ref: B. (V T)
TESTO, Henry
1914-1918 Notes: Underage when he joined the Army in 1915. Fought & returned to Britain 1918 shell shocked & suffering the effects of poison gas.
Ref: O. NFCA
TESTO, William
Related to: Son of Kate & Billy Testo
1914-1918 Notes: Injured in France.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 1/9/17 (photo)
“TEXAS BILL”
See: Shufflebottom, William
“TEXAS JACK”
See: Shufflebottom, John
THORA, Mr
Job: Ladder Act
1914-1918 Notes: 1914 was working with Julius Seeth, and with Circus Schumann when war broke out. Interned in Ruhleben. Released after 13 months as over military age.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/2/16
TRAYLEN, Mary
Married: 1902 Frederick Wombwell
Died: 27 February 1952
1914-1918 Notes: Toured with Bostock & Wombell’s
Ref: D. p293
TREHERNE, WIlliam
1914-1918 Notes: Toured with EH Bostock’s Royal Italian Circus Overseas for duration of war, S. Africa and Far East.
Ref: D. p293
TRUFELLI, Francesco “Frank”
Nationality: Italian?
Married: Evelyn Chipperfrield
1914-1918 Notes: Toured with EH Bostock’s Royal Italian Circus Overseas for duration of war, S. Africa and Far East.
Ref: D. p294
TRUFELLI, Guiseppe
Nationality: Italian?
Died: 1937
1914-1918 Notes: Toured with EH Bostock’s Royal Italian Circus Overseas for duration of war, S. Africa and Far East.
Ref: D. p294
TRUZZI Family
1914-1918 Notes: Fled Russian Revolution to Constantinople
Ref: O. J
TYRWITT-DRAKE, Garrard
Born: 22 May 1881
Married: Edna Vine
Died: 24 October 1964
Job: Private zoo owner, Business man, Showman, Mayor Maidstone 12 times, JP, Knighted 1936
1914-1918 Notes: Started and closed Zoos, Took animals to USA 1915. Showed animals at showed at Worlds Fair Islington 1915. Joined Army in 1916. 21 March 1917 was a temporary captain. Given the French ‘War Lion’, Poliu, in 1918 by 17th Division. Was de-mobed after Armistice, became ill over night, spent next 3 months in hospital with the flu. Took out his 1st circus in March 1919.
Regiment: Labour Corps & Royal Veterinary Corps
Ref: B. (T-D G), N. The World’s Fair,
TUDOR, Harry
1914-1918 Notes: In British Armed Forces.
Regiment: British Flying Corps
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 21/10/16
URE, William
1914-1918 Notes: In British Armed Forces
Ref: D. p297
URMA SISTERS
1914-1918 Notes: Performing, 1915-16 Robert Fossett’s Circus Islington
Ref: D. p297
VALANCE, Fred
Job: Ventriloquist & conjurer
1914-1918 Notes: Entertaining troops in Malta 1916
Ref: ? 28/10/16
VALDO (CHADWICK), Harry
Related to: Son of Little Valdo – Clown
Job: Founded Heckenberg’s Circus in 1913
Act: Valdo Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: Hackenberg’s Circus in Waterford to start their tour on Easter Monday 1913. But at the outbreak of war they changed their name to ‘Chadwick’s circus’. Closed at the end of 1916 season in Ireland. Started tented variety show Chadwick’s Hippodrome in 1917 until 1921.
Ref: D. p57
VALDO, James
Related to: Son of Little Valdo – Clown
Job: Musical Clowns
Act: Valdo Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: See Valdo, Harry
Ref: D. p297-p278
VINCENT, Sam
Aka: Vincent the Great
Job: Balancer & gymnast
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war, was with Chadwicks in 1916 in Ireland
Ref: D. p301
WALLACE, Albert George
Job: Circus Staff
1914-1918 Notes: Rounded up at Broncho Bill’s show ground 14 Aug 1917. In court for failing to produce National Registration Cards as between 17 and 18 years.
Ref: N. Reading Mercury, 25/8/17
WALLSER
Related to: Son of Wallser family owners of Wonderland.
Died: April 1915
1914-1918 Notes: Served France, Died at Neuve Chapelle. Was reported by World’s Fair as the first Showman Soldier to be killed.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 17/4/15
WALTER, Matthias
Nationality: German
Act: Animal Keeper
1914-1918 Notes: At outbreak of war on Red Sea shipping 11 elephants for Hagenbeck. Got them back to Berlin. A reservist, was called up in 1914, spent 5 months in Navy. 1915-1918 worked with Jenny the Hagenbeck’s War Elephant in German Army, Invalided out, in 1918. to return to look after sick elephants, Survived. So did Jenny.
Ref: B. (H L)
WARD, Joe, Pte
Job: Boxer
1914-1918 Notes: Awarded, D.C.M., Croix de Guerre, Russian military Cross.
Regiment: Manchester
Ref: B. (F F)
WATSON, Johnny
1914-1918 Notes: In British Armed Forces
Ref: B. (F F)
WETTACH, Charles Adrien
Aka: Grock
Nationality: Swiss
Born: 10 Jan 1880, Bern
Married: Louise (1), Ines (2) 1912
Died: 14 July 1959
Job: Clown, composer & musician
1914-1918 Notes: In Russia performing with Lolé his brother in law at outbreak of war, 1914 medically unfit to serve with Swiss Army, some trouble crossing continent. Was in Paris at the time of first aerial bomb. Performed in Britain and elsewhere. Successful, with a succession of partners. In 1918 took Perezoff to court for infringement of his act.
Ref: B (G); N. The World’s Fair, 15/6/18
WHITELEY, Ben
Born: 1901
Related to: Son of Henry A A Whiteley
1914-1918 Notes: 1914-18 Notes: Child living in Boscombe, while parents touring Britain. As soon as old enough, joined family act c.1916. For a while was presented as girl acrobat with younger brother Harold when he joined act in 1917. Performed to end of war.
Ref: B. (W HAA)
WHITELEY, Benjamin Albert
Aka: Five Whiteleys
Born: 2 Dec 1902
Died: 26 April 1976
Related to: 2nd son of James Whiteley
1914-1918 Notes: Debut at George Gilbert’s Hippodrome 25 Jan 1915, 1st date in London 1917
Ref: B. (W HAA) D. p308 (some confusion as this is a big family D. says son of AA Whiteley)
WHITELEY, Harold Alexander
Born: 1903
Related to: Son of Henry Whiteley
1914-1918 Notes:Child living in Boscombe, while parents touring Britain. Joined family act c.1917 replacing brother who went to the Army. For a while was presented as girl acrobat with younger brother Ben. Performed to end of war.
Ref: B. (W HAA)
WHITELEY, Henry Allen Alexander
Born: 1872, Italy
Related to: Son of John Allen Whiteley
Job: Acrobat with various family troupes
Act: the Whiteley Five, Henry Whiteley Trio,
Census: 1911 41 Norton St Liverpool:
Leonora C (Wife), Paul age 4 and Harold age 7, Leonora Flor., age 2.
1914-1918 Notes: Playing at the Pavilion Ashington, as the Henry Whiteley Trio, when war broke out. In 1916 performed as the Henry Whiteley Four with wife and 2 sons, Harry and Ben (b. 1901) now old enough to perform without a licence. In 1917 replaced son, ‘Harry’, who joined up in 1917, with a younger son, Harold (b. 1903). In the new act, Ben & Harold were both dressed as girls and had to have their own long hair curled each night, eventually rebelled and then performed as boys. In early 1918 aged 46, was passed fit for military service. Did some labour in a foundry London, applied for deferment, appeal heard in Aug 1918, given 3 months exemption to 10 Nov.
Ref: B. (W HAA), Note: There was a Henry and a Harry.
WHITELEY, Henry Emilio “Harry”
Born: 16 Aug 1899,
Died: 1971 Colchester
Related to: Son of Henry Whiteley
Job: Acrobat
Act: Henry Whiteley Trio,
1914-1918 Notes: Performed with family, left the troupe at Grimsby to join up in 1917. Survived war
? Military Service #: S/45873
? Regiment: Rifle Brigade, Rifleman
Ref: B. (W HAA), #? LFW
WHITELEY, J Pte
1914-1918 Notes: served ( a J Whiteley was killed France 1 July, age 17.)
Military Service #: 10958
Regiment: 15th Batt., D.C., Lancs. F.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 28/8/15
WHITELEY, Leonora Catalina
nee Gregory.
Born: 1875, Argentina
Married: Henry A A Whiteley
Related to: Daughter of Lorina Matthews and Arthur Gregory
Job: Acrobat,
Act: Henry Whiteley Trio
1914-1918 Notes: August 1914, returned to family act following operation. 13 August 1915 gave birth to Raymond (last son) at 8 Wynne Road, during a Zeppelin raid, with a bomb landing in nearby Brixton Road. Rejoined the act as soon as possible, performing until the end of the war. 1918, while husband working as labourer, performed with 2 sons.
Ref: B. (W HAA)
WHITELEY, T. Pte
1914-1918 Notes: Served
Military Service #: 13174
Regiment: 1st Salford Battalion of the Lancashire Fusiliers
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 1/5/15 (photo)
WHITELEY, W., Pte
1914-1918 Notes: Killed in action age 17.
Regiment: 15th Batt., D.C., Lancs. F.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 29/7/16 (photo)
“WILLIAMS”
Job: Clown
1914-1918 Notes: French soldier, awarded cross of the Legion of Honour for bravery. c. 1914
Ref: N. Standard and The World’s Fair 28/11/14
WILLIAMS, Albert
Born Antonio, Jamaica
Aka: Albert Maccoma
Realtion: Grandson of William Maccomo
Job: With Buff Bill’s Circus.
1914-1918 Notes: In court in Macroom, N. Ireland, charged with disorderly behaviour in 1916 working Mrs Collin’s lion show.
Ref: D. 179; N. The World’s Fair, 1916
WILSON, Arthur
Born: 1879
Married: 1901 Phyllis Duffy
Job: Animal Trainer, Proprietor
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war with John Duffy and Son’s Circus in Ireland, 1917 started circus with wife.
Ref: D. p312
WILSON, F, Pte
Job: Various Circuses.
1914-1918 Notes: At front to fight then to Home Defense 1915
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 6/11/15
WILSON, William
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during War
Ref: D. p313
WIRTH, May
Nationality: Australian
Married: Frank White, 1919
Job: Equestrienne
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during war in Australia ‘Royal Worth Family’ , with Worth Bros. 1915-16. 1917 in America, with John Ringling Bros. as a star act.
Ref: B. (B F); D. p312
WOMBWELL, Frederick Captain
Born: 29 August 1877
Died: 4 May 1942
Job: Animal Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: Worked with Bostock & Wombell’s Menagerie for duration of war
Ref: B. (B EH)
WOOD, George, Pte
Job: T. Essam
1914-1918 Notes: Friend of “Rabbitt” Served. Killed.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 28/7/17
WOOD, John, Pte
Related to: Brother to George Wood
Job: with T. Essam
1914-1918 Notes: Served.
Military No.: 7768,
Regiment: B.C., 27 Tent, 927 Reserves
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 26/5/17 (photo)
WOODWARD, Fred & Joseph, Both Captains
Job: Sea Lion Trainer
1914-1918 Notes: Dec 1916 – May 1917 trained sea lions for the Admiralty to aid submarine detection. Animals were: Barker age 3, Jumbo age 9, Toby (blind), Queenie from London Zoological Soc. and Hengler’s sea lions, Billikan, Joffrey and Derando. Otherwise presented animals throughout war.
Ref: O. (IWM, 13417) and BBC
WRIGLEY, H.C. Pte.
Aka: Algar
1914-1918 Notes: Killed in Action
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 9/11/18
YELDING, Elizabeth
Married: Tom Fossett, 1915
1914-1918 Notes: Married
Ref: D. p318
YELDING, Harry
Nationality:
Born: 1868
Married: Kate Hanneford
Died: 1918
Related to: Son of Thomas
Job: Equestrian, Ex Gymnast
1914-1918 Notes: Committed suicide immediately after receiving his call up papers in 1918 age 50.
Ref: Multiple D. p318
YELDING, John
Aka: Speedy
1914-1918 Notes: Hanneford’s circus touring West Country in 1914. With Sylvester’s Circus in the Black Country 1919.
Ref: D. p318
YELDING, Thomas
1914-1918 Notes: Child Performer with Fossett’s
Ref: N. The World’s Fair,
YELDING, W
1914-1918 Notes: In British Army, Salonica?
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 2/11/18
YETTA, Mlle
1914-1918 Notes: Performed during the war.
Ref: D. p320
YOUNG, Leslie
Job: Lion Tamer
1914-1918 Notes: Chased by police, exciting trying to avoid call up.
Ref: N. The World’s Fair, 9/9/1916
ZAMBA, Madame
Job: Gymnast
1914-1918 Notes: 1914/15 Performed at World’s Fair.
Ref: D. p321
ZASS, Alexander
Aka: Amazing Sampson
Nationality: Polish
Born: Vida, Poland
Job: Strongman
1914-1918 Notes: Served in Russian Cavalry. Taken prisoner in one campaign but escaped. Joined Schmidt’s Circus in Budapest, under an assumed name.
Ref: D. p255
ZAZEL
See: RITCHER
ZOLA, Babs
Born: 13 August 1888
Job: Acrobat
Act: Zola Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: Joined Army Veterinary Corps, was a shoeing smith, released in 1919
Regiment: Army Veterinary Corps
Ref: D. p322 and p323
ZOLA, Claude
Job: Acrobat
Act: Zola Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: No Information
Ref: D. p322 and p323
ZOLA, Jim
Born: (Eldest Brother)
Job: Acrobat
Act: Zola Brothers
1914-1918 Notes: Quickly joined up with Dick Bratby, went to France, injured. Jaw broken, requiring several operations. Was also gassed returned to England in 1918
Regiment: Kings Own Lancashire Regiment,
Ref: D. p322,323; F. Tom Sandow son of D Bratby.