From Kimball Keller

Neon Out of Makeup, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. It is with great heartache and extreme sadness that I write to tell you that my mom, Mary “Neon” Oliver lost her battle with cancer. She was surrounded by family when she passed at Georgetown University Hospital on December 20. I know in my heart that she is in a much greater place, but my life will never be the same. One of her last words spoken were “I am going to heaven”. There is a clown in heaven looking over all of us. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, January 3, 2009, at 11 a.m. at Jesus the Divine Word Catholic Church, 885 Cox Road, Huntingtown, Maryland 20639; where friends may call one hour prior to the service. In lieu of flowers Memorial contributions may be made to the Kidney Cancer Association or the American Cancer Society. I am waiting to hear back from both organizations – more information will be forthcoming.

From Robert Perry

Hello Buckles And Merry Xmas to your Family. have just heard that David Knupp catcher with Del Graham on Wirth's From the U.S.A passed away on Dec 26 can you confirm this i am not sure but i think he may have married animal trainer Madam Kovar Daughter at one time. Regards Robert Perry Australia

Japan 1989 #1 (Program)

Scan11124, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. Yesterday myself, Dalilah and Ron Morris were treated to a great afternoon at the Crab Trap Restaurant hosted by Frank Curry. Followed by another outstanding evening at the Sarasota Showfolks Club.

Japan 1989 #2

Scan11126, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. Last night was Gibsonton Showfolks night at the club with many visitors from that great city to the North. In particular were Lee and Judy Stevens and during a conversation the subject of the two Ringling Japanese tours came up and Lee regaled us with stories of his experiences on the 1989 tour. An unexpected surprise was the appearance of the James Plunkett family who are in Florida visiting John and Mary Ruth. I must say James and Weiner have some fine looking kids, all named for heroes of the Old West, Jessie James, Cole Younger and Belle Starr.

Japan 1989 #3

Scan11128, originally uploaded by bucklesw1.

Japan 1989 #4

Scan11125, originally uploaded by bucklesw1.

From Henry Penndorf

Ursula Bottcher.21 - 1978 GDR Postage Stamp, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. Here is the Postage Stamp that I spoke of. The commentorative Postage Stamps were issued in 1978 by the East German Government. The one in the lower right hand corner honors Ursula Bottcher and the "Todekuss" or "Zuckerkuss" part of her act. Henry

The dreaded "Kiss of Death"

scan0065, originally uploaded by bucklesw1.

From Paul Gutheil #1

Christmas Card 2008, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. Late as usual. Certainly wanted to wish the Woodcock & Williams families a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Healthy New Year. Paul and Diane PS Thanks to Mike and Carolyn Rice for the loan of the camel.

From Paul Gutheil #2

Elephant Stepped on Pocket-Book, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. The Elephant Stepped-On Pocket Book.

From Casey Cainan

100_1695, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. Here is the elephant man group photo from the Hall/Burck wedding.

From Jim Zajicek

Jimmy_6794bw, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. "Does anyone wish to speak before I declare this couple husband and wife?"

From Jim Cole #1

HippodromeShow, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. A little research and I answer my own question! I also found "Hippodrome" as well as this 6 episode Super Circus DVD. I seem to recall a circus TV show that aired here in the USA in the late '60s. I remember seeing many acts on the show that I was familiar with, including the Albert Rix Bears and the Circus World Museum 12 pony act presented by John Herriott. Not sure if it is the same show that the DVD is from. "Hippodrome" claims to be acts from Europe" while the show I recall came out of the USA. The TV hosts listed all are well known American TV personalities from that era. Does any one else recall that show? It might have been called "Colosseum" ? Buckles, didn't you work on it? Has anyone seen this DVD yet? Both are available on Amazon.com. Jimmy Cole

From Jim Cole #2

Super Circus, originally uploaded by bucklesw1.

From Joey Ratliff

DSC_0118CHRISTMAS, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. "Jean", Gwynyn, "Panya", Alison, Joey

From Barry Miller

elephant 3, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. To all who love Buckles Blog as much as we do. We send you a trunk full greetings for this holiday season. Barry & Nancy Miller

From Adam Hill

Scan059,January02,2004, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. This picture was taken in Tampa Fl. at the State Fairgrounds on January 2000 just before I left Ringling for taking over the elephant on Clyde Beatty Cole Bros.

Old Americana #1

Scan11123, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. Ole Whitey will enjoy these, depicting the two most important people in town, the Blacksmith and the Mayor. Notice the Walter L. Main poster in the background, dated May 11.

Old Americana #2

Scan11122, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. A stand of 1900 Gentry paper (32 sheets).

Old Americana #3

Scan11120, originally uploaded by bucklesw1. These next two pictures are unidentified but bear the date 1910. As you can see they have started with the side wall on the round end.