Buckles: William Adams "Bill" Griffith Jr., the doyenne of Wisconsin circus owners, will celebrate his next birthday on Saturday, October 16. Bill is the latest in a line that started with the Mabie brothers, Hiram Orton and were followed by many more. A brief biography of Bill is in the book Badger State Showmen and a longer account was authored by Jim Lackore for Bandwagon, Jan-Feb and March-April 1974. Bill's shows included: 1957 Holiday Circus Review, Grand International Cirque de Noel and Adams Bros. Famous Indoor Circus 1958 Adams Bros. Circus 1959 Adams Bros. and Seils Bros.' Combined Circus 1960 Adams and Sells Circus 1962-1963 Sells Bros.' 3 Ring Circus 1964-1965 Birnam Bros. Great 3 Ring Circus In more recent times Bill owned and operated a carnival and also served as proprietor of the American Calliope Center in Spring Green, which displayed the world's finest collection of air calliopes. Perhaps you have some suitable images for posting to "make his day." Bill and his wife, Dot, reside in Spring Green, WI. Best regards, Fred |
Saturday, October 02, 2010
From Fred Dahlinger
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3 comments:
Wayne Franzen was from Amherst Junction, I believe, and would have been a later addition to the list of Wisconsin showmen.
I don't know if Wayne would qualify as a doyenne.
I always felt Wayne Franzen was not given enough credit for what he accomplished in the circus world. Yes, there is a small article written from time to time but nearly not enough or giving enough credit due him. Also, photos seem to be in short supply.
Starting as a H.S. shop teacher to self taught circus animal trainer/owner is quite a featas you know. Dennis Younger
Happy upcoming birthday to Bill Griffith! A memorable showman equipped with a ton of moxie.
Bandwagon carried a two-part series on his career some years back. Well worth seeking out - both historical and highly entertaining.
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