Richard Reynolds #5

* * * * Next to Jumbo, the largest African male Chicagoans could have seen before 1909 was Mike of the Sells Bros Circus and, after 1895, with the Adam Forepaugh and Sells Bros Circus. He was not as big as Jumbo but was still impressive - -and he had nice tusks, like so - - This shows him on city streets in the Adam Forepaugh-Sells Bros. circus parade. As you see, he is festooned with chains designed to keep him under control, including martingales from tusks to feet. Try that nowadays! Today, aside from the howls by the animals rights sorority, no circus would run the financial liability risk of putting such a male monster in the streets. Anyway Mike was in Chicago for all to see on August 26-31, 1901 and perhaps earlier than that with Sells Bros. Mike was a runt compared to many African bulls. He stood only 10' 4" while Jumbo was right at 11 ft. And, there are some now in captivity who are over 11'. * * * * Of course, before 1909 Chicago was played by many circuses exhibiting elephants, making the Elephantidae a familiar sight to Chicagoans. But there were few Africans among them and none as impressive as Jumbo and Mike. Now that's about all I can offer. I've enjoyed this exercise. Having spent no small amount of time ferreting out the info, I will send it others who may have an interest. Yours in loxodonta africana, I am, Richard