TOASTMASTER PAUL ABRAMSON REMEMBERS HIS DAYS AT RINGLING BROTHERS’ "BARNUM'S KALEIDOSCAPE"

It was a nice winter day in Chicago at the turn of the century. Ringling Brothers had not done a tent show in over 40 years. I, Paul Abramson, can now add sloughing a tent to my curriculum vitae. Note the Sears Tower in the background. Below is a future performer in training.

When I told my friend I was going to work for a circus, he asked if I was going to wear a funny red hat. I told him no…

… It was a funny blue jacket.

This cart was on display during the premiere performances in Century City, California. It is over 100 years old and was originally used as a ticket booth for the Sells Floto circus.

I brought my circa 1950s Bell and Howell 16mm movie camera with me when I ran away with the circus. Before I lost the irreplaceable viewfinder, I was able to shoot some incredible behind-the-scenes footage which I plan to post soon.


Toastmaster Paul T. Abramson