Step Right Up!

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Rice Brothers Minstrel, Vaudeville, and Dancing Girl Shows, c. 1915

 

Hi Guys!

If you ask me, the best part of any fair is the sideshow!  I mean, where else can you see the world's wonders for next-to-nothing?  It's education, entertainment, and excitement, all in one!

A century ago, sideshows were even better!  You could see all kinds of stuff:  exotic animals, magic acts, theatrical shows, silent movies, daredevil stunts, beauty pageants, and the usual assembly of special people!  To give you an idea, let's take a stroll down the midway of 100 or more years ago!



"Beautiful Nina," Theatrical Melodrama, c. 1910


"Maid of the Mist,"  Swimming Girl Show, c. 1910


"The Merry Widows" and "Hero of the Plains," Theatrical Melodramas, c. 1910


Boxing Show, c. 1910


"Buster Brown" and "Human Laundry," Funhouses at Woodside park, Philadelphia, c. 1910


"Katzenjammer Kastle,"  Funhouse, 1908



"Mamie," Theatrical Melodrama, 1908


Owens, the Armless Musician; and Romaine Hippodrome, Educated Dog Show, 1907



Spiral Ball Walker, c. 1905

Pretty cool, huh?  I'd say those are some dimes well spent!  See you next time!


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