Besides the obvious weather elements [blazing sun, rain downpours, etc.] and savings on labor, what were the pros and cons of a sidewall versus a regular menagerie under a top? At one time George Christy used a Wild West canopy design for a menagerie tent, with the center space open to the sky.
A tight lot was the most common reason to sidewall a menagerie, the next being a late arrival in which case all menagerie canvas hands helped with the big top.
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Besides the obvious weather elements [blazing sun, rain downpours, etc.] and savings on labor, what were the pros and cons of a sidewall versus a regular menagerie under a top? At one time George Christy used a Wild West canopy design for a menagerie tent, with the center space open to the sky.
A tight lot was the most common reason to sidewall a menagerie, the next being a late arrival in which case all menagerie canvas hands helped with the big top.
During and right after WWII, RBB&B generally sidewalled the menagerie, on one day stands
due to help shortage.
Bob Kitto
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