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George Pennell Collection of Circus Materials

Finding Aid & Inventory

George Pennell was a Wake Forest College alumnus (1914) and Board of Trustees member. This collection documents Pennell's personal and professional interests. Materials document a variety of circuses and include legal documents, photographs, clippings, periodicals, posters, and correspondence.

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Biographical and Historical Note

George Clingman Pennell was born May 12, 1893 and attended Wake Forest College (1914), graduating with a degree in law. He was a lawyer and author, as well as a College trustee; his gravestone records that his legal clients included the city of Asheville and circuses. Pennell was also a life-long Baptist and church deacon. The son of Thomas and Frances Pennell, he lived and practiced in Asheville, North Carolina, until his death on November 17, 1966.

George Pennell's life as an attorney working in the amusement industry had him juggling multiple vocations. Primarily, he was the attorney for owners and their shows. However, Pennell was also hired by circus and carnival companies to "procure some acts which they desire to contract and pay a flat rate." He organized big fairs with multiple circus companies, and had the "Power of Attorney for rental purposes on the Lot," which allowed the circus to rent land out for the duration of their performances from local owners.

About his unusual job, he wrote to a friend in a personal letter joking, "If I didn't enjoy being around show people I certainly would never accept employment." In 1965 Pennell received a certificate of appreciation from Jack Smith managing director) and Alex Irwin (chairman of the board) of Robbins Bros Circus for "your contribution and service in the furtherance of the outdoor circus industry."

His son Timothy Pennell was also a graduate of Wake Forest. At Wake Forest, Timothy graduated with a B.S. (1955) and M.D. (1960). After graduation, he went on to work as a surgeon at the Wake Forest University Bowman Gray School of Medicine.

Collection Overview

This collection includes correspondence, photographs, trade publications, subject files, ephemera, and a variety of other materials.

While the collection is primarily about Pennell's life as an attorney, it also sheds light on the amusement industry in the mid-20th century. The collection contains a multitude of pictures and circus books giving a well-rounded view of the industry. And, as can be expected with a collection about the circus, there are several entertaining photos of the so-called "assistant freaks," and a letter explaining "circus slang."

The collection also gives an inside look at some of the big-name circuses, such as Ringling Bros and Barnum and Bailey Circus. At the time their show, The Greatest Show on Earth, was the largest circus in the U.S. According to the corporate website, The Greatest Show on Earth consisted of "100 double-length railroad cars and 1,200 employees…[it] was arguably the largest traveling amusement enterprise up to that time." Pennell did work with the company for well over a decade. The collection sheds insight into Ringling Bros and Barnum and Bailey Circus through route books, management materials, and legal contracts. The documents show both the overwhelming success of their show The Greatest Show on Earth and the decline. Ringling Bros and Barnum and Bailey gave their last tented performance on July 16, 1956. The shut-down was prompted by the audience’s changing tastes but also by "labor troubles, bad weather, and rising costs," according to an article in the collection

This collection is arranged into five series: Subject Files, Photographs, Printed Materials and Clippings, Oversized Materials, and Related Materials. They are not in any particular order.

Collection Inventory

  • Subject Files
    • Adam Forepaugh And Sells Brothers 1889 Box 1 Folder 1 (This folder contains a notice request to the editor of Grand Rapids Newspaper, signed by J E Broyle, press agent.)
    • Al C. Hansen Shows (1935-1936) Box 1 Folder 2
    • Al G. Kelly and Miller Bros. Circus
      • 1966 Box 1 Folder 4 (This folder contains legal documents, correspondence, notes. Correspondents include Art Miller, Asheville Central Labor Union, Joe McMahon, Mr. and Mrs. Robert Greenwood, Gladys Black, Weldon Weir, Ray Stepp, Mrs. Billie Plunkett, Charles Williams, Payne W. Bradley, Mrs. Donna McMahon, Daviso Cristiani.)
      • 1962 Official Route Book Box 1 Folder 3
      • Misc. Box 1 Folder 5 (This folder contains business card for Art Miller, business card for Season of 1964 (3 copies), Season of 1966 Official Route Card No. 17, 18, 26 (2 copies), 29, 30, notes, envelopes, circus advertisement brochure (5 copies), Chinese takeout menu for Peking Garden, blank stationary from the Asheville Area Central Labor Union AFL-CIO.)
    • American Cemetery, April 1960 Box 1 Folder 6
    • AMP Shows 1947-1948 Box 1 Folder 7 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence, legal documents and other materials regarding A.M.P. Shows. Correspondents include G.C. Mitchell, A.M. Podsobinski, Fred Burgin, Jr., Alice Baxter, Cortez Baxter, Ernest Gray, Theola Gray, C.V. DeVault, James E. O'Brien, Frank Watson, and Mark Curley Graham.)
    • Amusement Business, 1963 Jan 5 Box 1 Folder 8
    • Amusement Business, 1966 Dec 10: Pennell Death Notice Box 1 Folder 9
    • Arthur Brothers Circus 1945 Box 1 Folder 10 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence and other materials relating to Arther Brothers Circus. Correspondents include Charles P. Camp, W.S. Harrison, and P.M. Burdette.)
    • Art Lewis Shows, Inc., Art Lewis Attractions Box 1 Folder 11 (This folder contains 2 business cards, 2 official special courtesy guest passes, blank reciept for money received of Art Lewis Attractions.)
    • Bailey Bros. Circus 1945-1946 Box 1 Folder 12 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence, legal documents, and other materials regarding Bailey Bros Circus, 1945-46. Correspondents include James M. Beach, P.M. Burdette, E.W. Pearson, Wiley L. Morgan, Bob Stephens, Bruce Cox, Sherwood Upchurch, Harry Bordman, William Harrison, C.C. Smith, M.W. Krieger, Jr, H.H. Fitch, Edwin M. Clark, and Kimmell and Crowell.)
    • Bailey Bros. Circus 1946, Fall Box 1 Folder 13 (This folder contains contracts, corresondence, legal documents, Christmas cards, various tickets, and other materials relating to Bailey Bros. Circus. Correspondents include Bob Stevens, James M. Beach, Jack C. Grady, C.C. Smith, and Edwin M. Clark.)
    • H.L. Deese vs. Bailey Bros Circus 1945 Box 1 Folder 14 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence, legal documents and other materials relating to H.L. Deese vs. Bailey Bros. Circus. Correspondents include H.L. Deese, John Doe, Richard Roe, Bob Stevens, W. Duncan Matthews, Johnson J. Hayes, Johnny Wall, and C.W. Llewellyn.)
    • Bantly's All American Shows Box 1 Folder 15 (Speical Courtesy Passes)
    • Barker Brothers Circus Box 1 Folder 16 (Tiger sticker)
    • Biller Bros. Circus, Inc., L.D. "Doc" Hall, 1949-50 Box 1 Folder 17 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence, legal documents, complementary tickets, and other materials. Correspondents include L.D. "Doc" Hall, Hyman Stumak, Weldon Weir, Ken Drake, Robert Praytor, W.S. Harrison, William Cowan, and Slaymon Ali.)
    • Blue Ribbon Shows (Gibson's Blue Ribbon Shows) 1936 Box 1 Folder 18 (This folder contains correspondence related to Blue Ribbon Shows. Correspondents include Robert Kline, Eddie Roth.)
    • Bradley and Benson's Combined Circus Box 1 Folder 19 (This folder contains complimentary tickets.)
    • Bright Lights Exposition Shows Box 1 Folder 20 (This folder contains complimentary tickets.)
    • Buchanan, Tommy, personal file, 1958-60 Box 1 Folder 21 (Correspondents include Tommy Buchanan, Patricia Buchanan, Watts C. Johnson, Ben J. Layton, and Arnold Mahley.)
    • Buck Owens Circus and Wild West Box 1 Folder 22 (This folder contains two lincense contracts and reciepts.)
    • Buncombe County Fair, 1936, 1957 Box 1 Folder 23 (This folder contains correspondence (1936) and three season tickets for 1957. Correspondents include Mr. Blumenfeld, E. W. Pearson, R. W. Richards.)
    • Bunts Greater Shows 1935-1936 Box 1 Folder 24 (This folder contains correspondence and legal documents. Correspondents include W. J. Bunts, Mrs. W. J. Bunts.)
    • Campi Amusement Co., Inc. 1953-1954 Box 1 Folder 25 (This folder contains contracts, legal documents, correspondence and other materials relating to Campi Amusement Co., Inc, 1953-54. Correspondents include Thad Eure, Johnny Campi, J.C. Bethune, and W.C. Pickett, Jr.)
    • Carson, S.Tommy (Show) 1959-1961 Box 1 Folder 26 (This folder contains contracts, legal documents, correspondence and other materials relating to S. Tommy Carson. Corresponents include S.T. Carson, John E. Jervis, and Rhea Carson.)
    • Cetlin and Wilson Shows
      • H.O. Hoover vs Cetlin and Wilson Shows 1948 Box 1 Folder 27 (This photograph contains legal documents, correspondence, photographs and other materials related to H.O. Hoover vs. Cetlin and Wilson Shows. Correspondents include William J. Cocke, John W. Wilson, I. Cetlin, C.V. DeVault, E.Y. Webb, and J.L. Racionzer and Co.)
      • Price vs. Cetlin and Wilson Shows 1948 Box 1 Folder 28 (This folder contains legal documents, correspondence and other materials related to Henry T. Price vs. Cetlin and Wilson Shows. Correspondents include J.L. Racionzer and Co., and C.V. DeVault.)
      • 1948 Box 1 Folder 29 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence and other materials related to Cetlin and Wilson Shows, 1948. Correspondents include R.C. McCarter, Harry P. Mitchell, Albert N. Barnett, Edward K. Johnson, John W. Wilson, W.S. Harrison, George Golden, H.P. Mitchell, and C. V. DeVault.)
      • 1949-50 Box 1 Folder 30 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence and other materials related to Cetlin and Wilson Shows, 1949-50. Correspondents include R.C. McCarter, Jack Wilson, Izzy Cetlin, George Golden, W.S. Harrison, and Curtis L. Bockus.)
      • 1963 Box 1 Folder 31 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence and other materials related to Cetlin and Wilson Shows, 1963. Correspondents include Weldon Weir, Harry Swank, DeVere C. Lentz, Jr., Barney Corey, W. H. Hibbard, Robert L. Johnson, and Claude Sechrist.)
      • Cetlin and Wilson Box 1 Folder 32
    • Cherokee Indian Fair (1950-1952, 1962) Box 1 Folder 33 (This folder contains performer's passes for the Cherokee Indian Fair 1950, 1951, 1952, 1962.)
    • Cherokee Ranch Rodeo (1951-1956) Box 1 Folder 34 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence and other materials related to Cherokee Ranch Rodeo, Cherokee Hammons, Owner, A.J. Coffey, General Representative. Correspondents include Cherokee Hammons, Weldon Weir, W.S. Harrison, Paul Jones, Arnold J. Coffey, Robert J. Correll, and James Alfred Jones.)
    • Cherokee Ranch Rodeo Souvenir Program Box 1 Folder 35 (This folder contains a souvenir program for the Cherokee Ranch Rodeo (also see Printed Materials/Clippings))
    • Circus Foundation, Inc. (1956) Box 1 Folder 36 (This folder contains contracts, correspondence, souvenir program, business card, and other materials related to the Circus Foundation, Inc. Harry H. Kackley, General Manager. Correspondents include John P. Yancey, Jr., and Harry H. Kackley.)
    • Circus and Carnival
      • 1937 Box 1 Folder 37 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to miscellaneous clients of carnival and circus. Correspondents include Goodman Wonder Shows, Wallace Bros. Shows, Walter B. Fox, J. T. Tinsley, Tinsley Shows, Gentry and Raeburn Rodeo Productions, E.R. Gentry, Crystal River Shows, Warren Bunts, Doc Waddell, Majestic Exposition Shows, R.G. McHendrix, Bob Hallock, and Crescent Amusement Company.)
      • 1938 Box 1 Folder 38 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to clients of circus and carnival. Correspondents include Walter B. Fox, Bob Hallock, Al. G. Hodge Shows, Eric B. Hyde Shows, Harry Ramish, Model Shows, Tom Terrell, Robert Penny, Penny Amusement Co., Southern Attractions, Inc., T.D. Kemp, Jr., Burgin Pennell, Majestic Exposition Shows, R. G. McHendrix, Max Goodman, Goodman Wonder Show, Zack Terrell, Cole Bros. Circus, Franz Woska, Doc Waddell, Charlie Sparks, and Downie Bros. Circus.)
      • 1939 Box 1 Folder 39 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to clients of circus and carnival, 1939. Correspondents include Eric B. Hyde, Southern Attractions, T.D. Kemp, Jr., R.G. McHendrix, Haag Brothers Circus, Herbert Wiggins, Walter B. Fox, J.J. Page, Page Shows, H.L. Bush, William Moore, Downie Bros. Circus, E.R. (Doc) Guilford, Parker and Watts Circus, Bob Hallock, Zacchini Bros. Shows, Miller Bros. Shows, Morris Miller, Charles Sparks, Jess Adkins, Cole Bros. Circus, C.W. Cracraft, Doc Waddell, Joe Hayworth, Dolly Cooper, Mighty Mammoth Shows, Inc., H.L. Bryant, A.C. Bradley, Mrs. Bobby Lamar, Cetlin and Wilson Shows, Jack Wilson, A.C. Bradley, and T.D. Kemp, Jr..)
      • 1940 Box 1 Folder 40 (This folder contains materials and correspondence regarding circus and carnival clients, 1940. Correspondents include Al C. Bradley, George Hamid, J.W. Glover, Art Miller, Doc Waddell, Johnny J. Jones Exposition, E. Lawrence Phillips, Charlie Campbell, Jess Adkins, Cole Bros. Circus, Mrs. W.E. Logan, John H. Marks Shows, Franz Woske, Ringling Bros.-Barnum and Bailey Circus, M.B. Howard, Cetlin and Wilson Shows, Jack Wilson, Harry Ramish, J.J. Page Exposition Shows, W.J.(Bill) Conway, Captain John M. Sheesley, Sheesley's Mighty Midway, A.C. Bradley, Joe Haworth, R.G. McHendrix, Crystal Exposition Shows, W. J. Bunts, R.C. Lee, Haag Brothers Circus, Max Goodman, Herbert Wiggins, R.W. Wallace, Wallace Bros. Circus, J.B. Redmond, Funland Shows, Billie Clark, Parrott and Davis Shows, Walter B. Fox, Senator C.W. Cracraft, and John H. Marks.)
      • 1941 Box 1 Folder 41 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to circus and carnival clients, 1941. Correspondents include Walter B. Fox, Lion's Club Circus, Mrs. Jerry Ramish, Captain John M. Sheesley, Sheesley's Mighty Midway, E.R.(Doc) Guilford, Joe Hayworth, Billie Clark, R.G. McHendrix, Charles H. Sutton, M.B. Howard, Doc Waddell, Ira W. Watts, Cole Bros. Circus, Jerome T. Harriman, Ringling Bros.- Barnum and Bailey Circus, Harry Mack, Wallace Bros. Circus, J.B. Redmond, E. Camm, Heller Acme Shows, Ohio Display Fireworks Co, Tony Vitale, A.C. Bradley, Zack Terrell, Dodsons World Fair Shows, Pat M. Burdette, E.B. Braiden, Art Lewis Shows, Jack Dempsey, Weldon Weir, and Mel Dodson, Jr.)
      • 1942 Box 1 Folder 42 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to circus and carnival clients 1939-41. Correspondents include R.G. McHendrix, Haag Bros. Circus, Doc Waddell,) (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to circus and carnival clients, 1942. Correspondents include J.B. Redmon, R.F. McLendon, Walter B. Fox, Dolly Cooper, Bantley's All American Shows, L.C. Miller, Wm. (Bill) Kellogg, Blue Ribbon Shows, L.E. Roth, R.F. McLendon, City Rides, Joe and Fannie Haworth, Heth Shows, Floyd R. Heth, J.E. Stebler, World of Fun Shows, Ray Rpgers. E.C. May, and M.B. Howard.)
      • 1943-1945 Box 1 Folder 43 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to clients of circus and carnival, 1943-45. Correspondents include A.C. Bradley, Charles Sparks, Ralph J. Clawson, Sheesley Mighty Midway, Captain John M. Sheesley, J.J. Page, Page Exposition Shows, L.C. McHenry, C.D. Scott, Scott Bros. Shows, Herbert Duvall, Charles Campbell, Bill Tumbler, Wallace and Beatty Bros. Circus, Walter B. Fox, Joe Haworth, Blanche Blanche M. Scott, Bantley's All-American Shows, Henry Bantly, Wiley L. Morgan, L.C. McHenry, Crescent Amusement Co., Zack Terrell, Cole Bros Circus, Charlie Campbell, Herbert Duvall, H.M. Kilpatrick, Cooper Brothers Circus, and Ralph Clawson.)
      • 1946 through 1958 Box 1 Folder 44 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to clients of circus and carnival, 1946-47, with additional materials dated through 1958. Correspondents include J.J. Page Exposition Shows, Harry R. Logan, R.E. Savage, W.S. Harrison, Charlie Campbell, Calvacade of America Company, Tom Terrill, Hagen-Wallace Circus, James and Martha Steele, Daniel W. Steele, and Leonard A. Hampton.)
      • 1966 Box 1 Folder 45 (This folder contains correspondence and materials related to clients of circus and carnival, 1966. Contents include an order for interment, several sealed envelopes, a booklet on the laws governing the sanitation of restaurants for North Carolina. Correspondents include R. W. Brown, Mrs. J. E. Owen.)
      • Slang Terms and Phrases Box 2 (This folder contains correspondence from Walter B. Fox and a hand-written dictionary of phrases and definitions.)
    • Circus Historical Society Bandwagon (Folders contain Circus Historical Society Bandwagon. (also see Printed Materials/Clippings))
      • 1954 Vol. 1 Jan. Box 2
      • 1954 Vol. 2 Feb.
      • 1954 Vol. 5 June
      • 1954 July, Aug. Sept.
      • 1954 Vol. 7 Oct. Nov.
      • 1954 Christmas Issue
      • 1955 March 17
      • 1955 April
      • 1955 June
      • 1955 Sept. Oct.
      • 1955 Christmas Issue
      • 1958 Vol. 2 No. 2 March April
      • 1960 May June
      • 1960 Sept. Oct.
      • 1961 Vol. 5, No. 4 Jul. Aug.
      • 1961 Vol. 5, No. 5 Sept. Oct. Nov.
      • 1961 Vol. 5, No. 6 Dec. Box 2
    • Clyde Beatty Circus 1953 (1948) Box 2 Folder 64 (This folder contains materials (season pass, business cards) and correspondence related to Clyde Beatty Circus, 1953. Correspondents include Harry Galub, Weldon Weir, J.E. Owen, Frank Orman, Robert Harold Ashe, Ethel Ash, Walter M. Watts, M.D., Howard A. Levine, Wade Hall, and Frank McClosky. Complimentary ticket 1948.)
    • Clyde Beatty Circus 1956 (1959) Box 2 Folder 65 (This folder contains materials (annual pass) and correspondence related to Clyde Beatty Circus, 1956. Correspondents include Floyd King, W.S. Harrison, Frank McClosky, Weldon Weir, Henry Carlile, Frankie Ormon, Sarasota Circus Corporation, Acme Circus Operating Company, Neil Berk, and Frank Braden.)
    • Clyde Beatty, Cole Bros. Circus 1959 Box 2 Folder 66 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Clyde Beatty - Cole Bros. Circus, 1959. Correspondents include Frank McClosky, Floyd King, Weldon Weir, Neil Berk, J.E. Owen, Walter Kernan, Edna Antes, Clarence Foster Bell, and Walter D. Nealand.)
    • Clyde Beatty, Cole Bros. Circus 1960 Box 2 Folder 67 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus, 1960. Correspondents include Elmer Yates, King Brothers Circus, Neil Berk, Weldon Weir, Acme Circus Operating Co., Piney Mountain Properties, Inc, J.K. Buckner, Edna Antes, Floyd King, John E. Jervis, and Frank Ormond.)
    • Clyde Beatty, Cole Bros. Circus 1961 Box 2 Folder 68 (This folder contains materials (2 official circus route book, 2 official programs and daily magazines, tickets) and correspondence related to Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus, 1961. Correspondents include Neil Berk, Weldon Weir, Edna Antes, Henry Carlile, Frank McClosky, and Floyd King.)
    • Clyde Beatty, Cole Bros. Circus 1962 Box 2 Folder 69 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus, 1962. Correspondents include Floyd King.)
    • Clyde Beatty, Cole Bros. Circus 1963 Box 2 Folder 70 (This folder contains a route listing for 1963 for Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus, Christmas greeting card, and correspondence with Floyd King.)
    • Clyde Beatty, Cole Bros. Circus 1964 Box 2 Folder 71 (This folder contains materials (magazine and program, official route no. 1, tickets) and correspondence related to Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus, 1964. Correspondents include Charles Seldman, Weldon Weir, Acme Circus Operating Co., Inc, Edna Antes, Floyd King, DeVere C. Lentz, Jr., Neil Berk, International Hippodrome Circus, Tim Pennell, Joseph Galasso, Frankie Ormond, Clyde Beatty, and Frank McClosky.)
    • Clyde Beatty, Cole Bros. Circus 1965 Box 2 Folder 72 (This folder contains materials (three Christmas greeting cards) and correspondence related to Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus, 1965. Correspondents include Clinton Bonde, Acme Circus Operating Co., Inc, Robert Greenwood, Clyde Beatty and Arnold Maley. This folder also contains various undated materials, specifically, two Christmas greeting cards, pink and tan 1/2 price tickets, business card, and official program.)
    • Clyde Beatty, Cole Bros. Circus 1966 Box 2 Folder 73 (This folder contains materials (2 business cards, clipping from Amusement Business, official route cards No. 9 and 11, 3 magazines and programs), legal documents and correspondence related to the Clyde Beatty-Cole Brothers Circus 1966. Correspondents include)
    • Cole Bros. Circus 1935, 1941 Box 2 Folder 74 (This folder contains a complimentary ticket for Cole Bros. Circus with Clyde Beatty, 1935. It also contains two complimentary tickets for Cole Bros. Circus, 1941.)
    • Cole Bros. Circus 1947-1948 Box 2 Folder 75 (This folder contains materials (circus magazine, 1947, a 1947 route card no. 7, 1947 complimentary tickets, lot contract, business card) and correspondence related to Cole Bros. Circus, 1947-48. Correspondents include Karl Knudson, W.S. Harrison, Joe and Fannie Haworth, and Zack Terrell.)
    • Cole Bros. Circus photograph, Circus Elephant Box 2 Folder 76 (This folder contains two pictures of a Cole Brothers circus elephant exiting a railway car.)
    • Col. Pete Conklin's Great Shows, 1899 Box 2 Folder 77 (This folder contains two complimentary tickets for Col. Pete Conklin's Great Shows, 1899.)
    • Crescent Amusement Company 1944-1945 Box 2 Folder 78 (This folder contains materials (multiple tickets n. d.) and correspondence related to Crescent Amusement Company, 1944-45. Correspondents include L.C. McHenry, Al Bartels, W.S. Harrison, Ray Rogers, and Charles D. Dermid.)
    • Crescent Amusement Company 1946 Box 2 Folder 79 (This folder contains materials (photograph of the Doll family), legal documents, and correspondence related to Crescent Amusement Company, 1946. Correspondents include L.C. McHenry, P.M. Burdette, George Smith, Monroe M. Redden, Sam Pickard, W.S. Harrison, and Joseph B. Palmer.)
    • Crescent Amusement Company 1947 Box 2 Folder 80 (This folder contains materials (multiple tickets in envelope), legal documents, and correspondence related to Crescent Amusement Co., 1947. Correspondents include L.C. McHenry, Marie McHenry, P.M. Burdette, W.S. Harrison, and Frank D. Long.)
    • Cristiani Bros. Circus 1957 Box 2 Folder 81 (This folder contains materials (official route card no. 17, 22, 23, two business cards, financial documents) and correspondence related to Cristiani Bros. Circus, 1957. Correspondents include Arnold Maley, Ed Hiler, W.S. Harrison, Lucio Cristiani, and Weldon Weir.)
    • Cristiani, Paul, National Producing Company 1964 Box 2 Folder 85 (This folder contains materials (legal documents) and correspondence regarding Paul M. Cristiani and the National Producing Co., 1964. Correspondents include Paul M. Cristiani, R. A. Pinner.)
    • Cristiani-Wallace Bros. Circus 1962 Box 2 Folder 82 (This folder contains materials (legal documents) and correspondence related to Cristiani-Wallace Bros. Circus, 1962. Correspondents include Neil Berk.)
    • Cristiani-Wallace Bros. Circus 1963 Box 2 Folder 83 (This folder contains materials (legal documents, plans) and correspondence related to Cristiani-Wallace Bros. Circus, 1963. Correspondents include Paul Cristiani, Bill Fulkerson, Pete Cristiani.)
    • Cristiani-Wallace Bros. Circus 1965 Box 2 Folder 84 (This folder contains materials (complimentary tickets, two complimentary tickets and an official route card no. 5 for Robbins Bros. Circus, legal document, circus advertisement) and correspondence related to Cristiani-Wallace Bros. Circus, 1965. Correspondents include Charlie Campbell.)
    • Crystal Exposition Shows 1936 Box 2 Folder 86 (This folder contains legal documents and correspondence related to Crystal Expositon Shows, 1936. Correspondents include W. J. Bunts.)
    • Dailey Bros. Circus, 1947 Box 2 Folder 87 (This folder contains materials (tickets, legal documents) and correspondence relating to the Dailey Bros. Circus, 1947. Correspondents include Butch Cohen, Charlie White, and Peter Lindeman. Also includes envelope from Walter B. Fox containing a photograph to Daily Bros. Circus rail cars post marked Jan. 9, 1948 Alabama.)
    • Dailey Bros. Circus, 1964 Box 2 Folder 88 (This folder contains a contract dated 15 April, 1964 for The Dailey Bros. Circus and Worlds Fair Exposition and W.N.C. Shopping Center Assn., Black Mountain, NC, and a business card for Edward L. Young.)
    • Dales Brothers Circus 1948 Box 2 Folder 89 (This folder contains materials (legal documents, financial documents, business card, complimentary tickets, season route and souvenir program) and correspondence relating to Dales Brothers Circus, 1948. Correspondents include James M. (Jim) Salter, Jimmie DeForest, Mickey Dales, Robert E. Miller, and Charles M. Fortune.)
    • Dan "Pappy" Kerr photographs Box 2 Folder 90 (This folder contains photographs and reproductions of Geo. M. Kelly ink drawing, The Great London Circus advertisement, three picture of a blonde woman, Clyde and Harriet 1938, Dan "Pappy" Kerr to Pennell 1962, envelope, three see Dan Pappy Kerr at the Imperial Theatre, two of Dan "Pappy" Kerr to Pennell 1959.)
    • Dan "Pappy" Kerr, 1962 Box 2 Folder 91 (This folder contains the Prayer of a Clown, a partial envelope, and correspdence related to Dan "Pappy" Kerr. Correspondents include Luther Coble, Dan "Pappy" Kerr.)
    • Davis and Parrott Shows Box 2 Folder 92 (This folder contains complimentary passes.)
    • Deggeller Amusement Company 1965-1966 Box 2 Folder 93 (This folder contains correspondence related to the Deggeller Amusement Company, 1965-66. Correspondents include R. C. McArtor, Weldon Weir, Greenwood Enterprises, John Leedy, Robert Greenwood, Fayne W. Bradley.)
    • Dodson's World's Fair Shows, Inc. Box 2 Folder 94 (This folder contains four photographs of train cars for Dodson's World's Fair Shows, a blank receipt form, courtesy pass, correspondence from M. G. Dodson dated Jan. 21, 1937.)
    • Downie Bro's Big 3 Ring Circus 1938 Box 2 Folder 95 (This folder contains an official route card no. 21 and correspondence from Charles Sparks (dated Nov. 12) related to Downie Bro's Big 3 Ring Circus, 1938.)
    • Duke of Paducah Show 1956-1957 Box 2 Folder 96 (This folder contains materials (legal document) and correspondence regarding Duke of Paducah Show, 1956-57, Joe Haworth, Agent. Correspondents include Joe Haworth, Whitey Ford, W.R. (Bill) Garvey, Captain Irvin Monk, and Earl Francis.)
    • DuVal, Herbert Box 2 Folder 97 (This folder contains an envelope addressed to George Pennell from Herbert DuVal, Hotel Paramount, New York, NY, dated September 16, 1952.)
    • Florida Amusement Company 1946-1947 Box 2 Folder 98 (This folder contains materials (legal documents, tickets) and correspondence related to Florida Amusement Company, 1946-47. Correspondents include Howard Ingram, Russell Watson, William C.B. (Billy) Watson, R.E. Keefer, Charles T. Zimmerman, Wade E. Brown, and Charlie Campbell.)
    • Fox, Walter B.
      • Circus and Carnival Slang 1959 Box 2 Folder 103 (This folder contains George Pennell's indexed memo book, note from Walter B. Fox, including "A Glossary of Circus and Carnival Slang Terms and Phrases for my friend Geo. C. Pennell's new book on that subject")
      • "Down Memory Lane" 1954 Sept. Box 2 Folder 101 (This folder contains three copies reprinted from Sept. 1954 issue of the "Greater Show World" "Down Memory Lane" with Walter B. Fox.)
      • "Down Memory Lane" 1956 Sept. Box 2 Folder 102 (This folder contains one page copied from Sept. 1956 issue of Greater Show World "Down Memory Lane" with Walter B. Fox.)
      • Memorabilia Box 2 Folder 99 (This folder contains newpaper clippings, United American Shows route cards no. 1 and 2 for 1940, Wallace Bros.' Shows route cards no. 2 and 3 for 1941, partial list of circus pictures, ad (hot dog story), ad ("More Truth than Poetry"), ad (Random Shots).)
      • Photographs Box 2 Folder 100 (This folder contains envelope, photographs of circus ads, Hagenbeck Wallace Circus 57 railway car, engine 595, Col. Tim McCoy's Real Wild West train car, Hagenbeck and Great Wallace Shows Combined railway car 1914.)
    • Free Eating in the Wild Box 2 Folder 104 (This folder contains handwritten notes regarding edible food found in the wild.)
    • Galveston's Fabulous Pleasure Pier Box 2 Folder 105 (This folder contains a pamphlet advertising Galveston's Fabulous Pleasure Pier opening May 2nd.)
    • Gem City Shows Box 2 Folder 106 (This folder contains a business card for Don Greco, mgr. of Gem City Shows and a lifetime pass to Gem City Shows.)
    • George A. Hamid, Inc. General Amusements 1935 Box 2 Folder 107 (This folder contains correspondence related to George A. Hamid, Inc. General Amusements, 1935 (36). Correspondents include M. B. Howard, George A. Hamid, Herman Blumenfeld.)
    • George's Bingo Box 2 Folder 108 (This folder contains two coupons good for merchandise only at George's Bingo.)
    • George Pennell Personal Box 5 Folder 239
    • Gibson's Blue Ribbon Shows, Inc. Box 2 Folder 109
    • Gold Medal Shows Box 2 Folder 112
    • Gold Medal Shows, 1951-1953 Box 2 Folder 110 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Gold Medal Shows, 1951/53. Correspondents include Weldon Weir, David E. Fineman, Johnny J. Denton, and Sylvester J. Moore.)
    • Gold Medal Shows, 1955-1956 Box 2 Folder 111 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Gold Medal Shows, 1955-56. Correspondents include Graves H. Perry, Johnny J. Denton, Irene Denton, Weldon Weir, W.S. Harrison, Irwin Monk, and W.C. Cowan.)
    • Gold Medal Shows, 1966, Johnny Denton, Owner Box 2 Folder 113
    • Grand Ole Opry Show 1955 Box 2 Folder 114 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to the Grand Ole Opry Show, 1955. Correspondents include R.E. (Elmer) Yates, Nashville Talent, Inc., Sam H. Hunt, and John E. Jervis.)
    • Hunt's Circus Box 3 Folder 115
    • Illinois Fireworks Company Box 3 Folder 116
    • International Attractions Box 3 Folder 117
    • James E. Strates Shows Box 3 Folder 120 Box 3 Folder 118 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to James E. Strates Shows, 1952. Correspondents include Curtis L. Bockus, James E. Strates, Art Lewis, Tim Pennell, Terrell Jacobs, W.S. Harrison, Starr DeBelle, Zack Terrell, Orville F.Stewart, and Walter Lumpkin.)
    • James H. Drew Shows, 1959 Box 3 Folder 121 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to James H. Drew Shows, 1959. Correspondents include James H. Drew, Jr.)
    • James H. Drew Shows, 1962 Box 3 Folder 122 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to James H. Drew Shows, 1962. Correspondents include James H. (Jimmy) Drew.)
    • Jewelry and Silver Appraisals Box 3 Folder 123 (This folder contains an appraisal of property (jewelry) of Wallace Jewelers, Statesville, NC from Arnold R. Schiffman of Schiffman's Jewelers, Greensboro, NC, October 20, 1955; and appraisal of property (silver) of Nancy Ellen Stonerpumphrey from Julius Aronson of Wallace Jewelers, Statesville, NC, October 24, 1955.)
    • J.J. Page Exposition Shows Box 3 Folder 124
    • Page's Combined Shows 1958 Box 3 Folder 125
    • Johnny J. Denton Shows Box 3 Folder 126
    • Johnny J. Jones Exposition Box 3 Folder 128
    • Johnny T. Tinsley Shows 1957 Box 3 Folder 129 Box 3 Folder 130 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Johnny T. Tinsley Shows, 1957. Correspondents include Harry Schreiber.)
    • Jungle Wonders Free Circus Box 3 Folder 131
    • Karston Productions 1954 Box 3 Folder 132 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Karston Productions, 1954, including contracts by SI Rubens and Joe Karston, Tom Huftle, J.E. Jervis, and others.)
    • Kelly and Miller Bros. Circus, 1963-1964 Box 3 Folder 133 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Kelly and Miller Bros. Circus, 1963-64. Correspondents include Charlie Campbell, Al G. Kelly and Miller Bros. Circus, and John E. Jervis.)
    • Kelly and Miller Bros. Circus, 1966 Box 3 Folder 134 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Kelly Miller Circus, 1966, including copy of Show Guide and Fun Book and Coloring Book and Program.)
    • Kelly-Morris Shows 1953-1958 Box 3 Folder 135 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Kelly-Morris Shows, 1953/1958. Correspondents include Charles Seldman, Weldon Weir, J.E. Owen, Cal Townsend, William (Bill) Morris, W.S. Jackson, Mildred Jackson, and Hoyle B. Adams.)
    • Kelly and Morris Circus Box 3 Folder 136
    • King Brothers Circus Box 3 Folder 142
    • King Brothers Circus, 1947-1953 Box 3 Folder 137 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to King Brothers Circus, 1947-1953. Correspondents include Floyd King, James M. Beach, F.L. Anders, Karl Knudson, W.S. Harrison, James M. Salter, Daviso Christiani, Arnold Maley, David Fineman, Ralph Clawson, R. Elmer Yates, Lucio Cristiani, Colonel Harry Thomas, Earl DeGlopper, Harry Kackley, J.E. Owen, Weldon Weir, and Elmer Yates.)
    • King Brothers Circus, 1954 Box 3 Folder 138 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to King Brothers Circus, 1954. Correspondents include Elmer Yates, Arnold Maley, Floyd King, Harry Klackley, Weldon Weir, W.S. Harrison, and A. Lee Hinckley.)
    • King Brothers Circus, Peeke vs. (1955-1956) Box 3 Folder 140-141 (This folder contains materials and correspondence regarding William J. Peeke, Jr. vs. King Brothers Circus and Cole Brothers World Toured Shows Combined, 1955. Correspondents include Floyd King, Arnold Maley, Malcolm M. Fleming, Walter Nealand, and Paul M. Conaway.)
    • King Brothers-Cole Brothers Circus 1955 Box 3 Folder 139 (This folder contains materials and correspondence regarding King Brothers-Cole Brothers Circus, Show Date 8-29-1955. Correspondents include Floyd King, Charles Seldman, W.S. Harrison, Weldon Weir, Juanita Dixon, Walter D. Nealand, and Ben Thomas.)
    • Kirkwood Shows, 1948 Box 3 Folder 143 (This folder contains materials and correspondence relating to Kirkwood Shows, 1948. Correspondents include William M. (Bill) Breese, Ralph Decker, Louis Glasser, and Al C. Beck.)
    • Krause, Bennie (Krause Greater Shows) Box 3 Folder 144
    • L.C McHenry's Road Show Attractions Box 3 Folder 145
    • Masons Box 3 Folder 148 (This folder contains materials regarding Mt. Hermon Lodge No. 118, of which Mr. Pennell was a member and officer.)
    • Maley, Arnold 1956-1957 Box 3 Folder 146 (This folder contains correspondence with Arnold Maley, 1956-57.)
    • Marks Shows, Inc. Box 3 Folder 147
    • Maude Adams in Quality Street: A Comedy in Four Acts by J.M. Barrie 1901 Box 3 Folder 149
    • Memorabilia - Walter B. Fox (Photos and text from Life Magazine; Wallace Bros. Shows, 1941 Official Route Card No. 2, No. 3; United American shows, 1940 Official route Card No. 2, No. 1.)
    • Mighty Sheesley Midway Box 3 Folder 151
    • Miller Bros. Show Box 3 Folder 155
    • Mills Bros. Circus 1950-1953 Box 3 Folder 152 (This folder contains materials and correspondence regarding Mills Bros. Circus, 1950-53. Correspondents include Doc Waddell and Jack Mills.)
    • Misc. Box 5 Folder 234 Box 5 Folder 235 Box 5 Folder 241
    • Misc. Circus Related Box 5 Folder 237
    • Murphy Brothers Fraternal Shows Box 3 Folder 157
    • National Circus Museum Box 3 Folder 158
    • October Fair Inc. 1953 Box 3 Folder 159 (This folder contains correspondence with October Fair, Incorporated, Dr. and Mrs. J.E. Owen, Joseph McKennon, and Captain R.C. Lee.)
    • Paul Miller Circus Box 3 Folder 160 (This folder contains materials and correspondence regarding Miller Brothers Circus, 1964. Correspondents include Paul Miller, Meryl A. Snyder, Lionel Miller, Weldon Weir, Perry, Mike and Marcia Crouch, Danny Crouch and James Miller.)
    • Personal
      • Records I Want 1946 Box 3 Folder 163 (This folder contains a handwritten, unsigned list of twelve record titles, written on a calendar sheet for December 6, 1946.)
      • 1950-1955 Box 3 Folder 161 (This folder contains materials and correspondence from Mr. Pennell's personal and family life, 1950-55.)
      • 1959 Box 5 Folder 239
      • 1960-1966 Box 3 Folder 162 (This folder contains miscellaneous materials and correspondence, including a death notice for Mr. Pennell by Madeline Pennell, attached to a list of circus and carnival clients and friends. Correspondents include Arnold Maley, Neil Berk, James H. Drew, Dolly Young, Ed Hiler, and Bill Elbirn.)
    • Production Enterprises, Si Rubens, General Agent 1961 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Production Enterprises, Si Rubens, General Agent, 1961. Correspondents include Si Rubens.)
    • Research Box 5 Folder 236
    • Robbins Bros. Circus - Certificate of Appreciation 1965-66 Box 4 Folder 178 (This folder contains certificate of appreciation to Mr. George Pennell from the Robbins Bros. Circus, 1965-66, signed by Jack S. Smith and Alex J. Irwin.)
    • Robbins Bros. Circus Box 4 Folder 179
    • Rogers Bros. Circus 1950 Box 4 Folder 180 (This folder contains correspondence related to Rogers Bros. Circus, 1950. Correspondents include Paul Forrester, Si Rubins, and W.S. Harrison.)
    • Ross Manning Shows, Inc. 1957 Box 4 Folder 181 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Ross Manning Shows, Inc., 1957. Correspondents include Tommy Carson, Ross Manning, Weldon Weir, Tony A. Stevens, and Charles G. O'Moore.)
    • Ross Manning Shows Box 4 Folder 182
    • Roster, Circus and Carnival 1959 Box 4 Folder 183
    • Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus Box 4 Folder 177
    • Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, 1947-1954 Box 4 Folder 172 (This folder contains materials and correspondence relating to Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, 1947-1954. Correspondents include C.H. Shepherd, Herbert DuVal, L.W. Pickett, Noyelles Burkhart, Westbrook and Olive Murphy, Art Concello, Paul Miller, Frank McCloskey, Colonel Curley Stewart, L.D. (Doc) Hall, Lavenia DuVal, Walter Reardon, Curtis L. Bockus, and Weldon Weir.)
    • Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, 1954 Box 4 Folder 174 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey Circus, 1954. Correspondents include Herbert DuVal, Noyelles D. Burkhart, Lavenia DuVal, L.W. Pickett, Paul Miller, J.E. Owen, Walt D. Nealand, Weldon Weir, Frank Braden, Frank McCloskey, J.Y. Henderson, Beverly Kelly, Scott Hall, Curtis L. Bockus, and Herbert DuVal.)
    • Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, 1955-1956 Box 4 Folder 175 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to the Ringling Brothers, Barnum and Bailey Circus, 1955-56. Correspondents include Burgin Pennell, Noyelles D. Burkhart, Beverly Kelly, Paul Miller, Herbert DuVal, Arthur M. Concello, Joe Haworth, Doc Hall, Roland Butler, and Terrell Jacobs.)
    • Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, 1956-1960 Box 4 Folder 176 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Combined Shows (opened December 1956), 1956-60. Correspondents include Arthur M. Concelllo and Herbert and Lavenia DeVal.)
    • Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus Route Books, 1950, 1952 Box 4 Folder 173 (This folder contains 1950 and 1952 Route Books.)
    • Rubens, Si (show) 1961 Box 4 Folder 184
    • Rubin and Cherry Model Shows, Inc. Box 4 Folder 186
    • Seils-Sterling Circus, Season of 1936 Route Book Box 4 Folder 187
    • Sells and Gray Circus, 1962 Box 4 Folder 189 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to Sells and Gray Circus, 1962. Correspondents include Weldon Weir, J.C. Rosenheim, Art Miller, Jack Cloutman, and William Reynolds.)
    • Sells and Gray Circus, 1965-1966 Box 4 Folder 188 (This folder contains materials and correspondence related to the Sells and Gray Circus, 1966. Correspondents include Glenn Parkins, The Kit Circus Operating Company, Inc., Robert Greenwood, Weldon Weir, Bill English, John Cloutman, and James Nordmark.)
    • Shrine Circus Produced by Clyde Bros. Circus Box 4 Folder 192
    • Southern Cemetery Association 1960 Box 4 Folder 193 (This folder contains correspondence with C.R. Hunter and Paul Silverstein.)
    • Sparks Circus Box 4 Folder 194
    • Superior Shows Box 4 Folder 195
    • T.A. Wolfe Shows, Pettus us. 1925 Box 3 Folder 164
    • Tex Ranger Show Box 4 Folder 197
    • United Nations Circus Box 4 Folder 200
    • W.C. Kaus Shows 1948-1949 Box 4 Folder 202 Box 4 Folder 201 (This folder contains materials and correspondence relating to W.C. Kaus Shows, 1948-49. Correspondents include Graves H. Perry, W.S. Harrison, Walter Lewis, and Russ Owens.)
    • Wake Forest College Box 5 Folder 233
    • World's Exposition Shows Box 4 Folder 210
    • World's Fair Attractions Box 4 Folder 211
    • Zeidman and Pollie Shows Box 4 Folder 212
  • Photographs
    • A. Eddy Box 4 Folder 215 (This folder contains two black and white photographs by A. Eddy, Claremont, N.H., no date - one of six women dressed in white on six white horses; one of a circus unloading with many onlookers.)
    • Asst. Freaks (Set No. 10) July 17, 1958 Box 4 Folder 216 (This folder contains miscellaneous picutres, mostly unlabeled. Labeled pictures are of Frank Lentini, Susie: Elephant skinned girl, Mr. and Mrs. Tom Thumb, Lou Shean, stand of paper by Guy W. Hart, 1902, Hilton Sisters, Maude Adams and Flora Walsh, and Maude Adams visiting her mother, Ann Adams, 1910.)
    • One Thousand Circus Photographs Box 4 Folder 217 (This folder contains a catalogue listing more than one thousand choice cirucs photographs available from Bernard L. Kobel, no date.)
    • Circus Hall of Fame Postcard, "Two Hemisphere Band Chariet" Box 5 Folder 218 (This folder contains a picture postcard of the "Two Hemisphere" Band Chariet, advertising The Greatest Circus Bandwagon on Earth in parade in Sarasota, addressed to Walter Fox, Mobile, AL, Nov 7, 195(9).)
    • Circus, Odds and Ends (This folder contains miscellaneous pictures and negatives, including Betty Broadbent, Minnie Ha Ha, Mildred Hurley, Half man-half woman, Phineas T. Barnum, Charles Porter, Buffalo Bill's Grave, Lou Shean, and a poster of Adam Forepaugh Shows. Also included is three photographs of listing of human oddity photos from Bernard L. Kobel, March 1, 1951, and an advertisement for pictures of "Circus Freaks" from Walter B. Fox.)
    • Circus Set, 1959 Box 5 Folder 220 (This folder contains fifteen 5x7 black and white photographs, with numbers on back, no labels. Pictures include John Robinson Circus - 1920, Kadeli-Kritch..., and Gangler Brothers Circus and Side Show.)
    • Cole Bros. Circus - Elephant (This folder contains two 3x5 black and white photographs of an elephant deboarding a train car.)
    • Dan "Pappy" Kerr (This folder contains three 3x5 black and white photographs of Dan Pappy Kerr in clown costume, two of which have attached a card advertising The Big Circus at the Imperial Theatre; and an 8x10 black and white of clown in costume, signed "To George 'Mr. Circus' Pennell- See you at 'The Big Circus' - Dan Pappy Kerr, 1959".)
    • Dan "Pappy" Kerr - 1962 (This folder contains a letter from "Pappy" to George Pennell, August, 1962, with explanation of enclosed photographs, including Linda Jeal, 1882; Geo. M. Kelly, 1867, Clyde and Harriet Beatty with cubs, 1938; autographed photo of self (Pappy) applying make-up; and three 4x5 black and white photographs of woman, unidentified, whose story is told in the letter. Also included is a letter from Geo. W. Lilly to Luther Coble, undated)
    • Dodson Shows (This folder contains four 3x5 black and white photographs of Dodson's Shows train.)
    • The Doll Family Box 5 Folder 219 (This folder contains a 3x6 black and white photograph, with negative, of the Doll Family, Grace, Tiny, Harry and Daisy.)
    • Freak photographs, Odds and Ends (This folder contains miscellaneous black and white photographs, including Susie the Elephant Skinned Girl, Zib and Izit, The Doll Family, Grace mcDaniels, Lion Faced Man, The Four Legged Woman, Edward Kissell, Francis O'Conner, Original Wild Men, Whiskered Woman, and Toney. Also included is a flyer from Walter B. Fox featuring photographs of the 1940 premiere of the Buckeye State Shows at Laurel, Miss.)
    • Hotel Belmont, Asheville, undated Box 5 Folder 221
    • Johnny Jones Expedition Box 3 Folder 127 (This folder contains nine 3x5 black and white photographs of Johnny Jones Expedition in transit.)
    • from Lee G. Warren (?) Box 5 Folder 222 (This folder contains miscellaneous circus pictures, including a 4x4 of Adam Forepaugh Shows, 1893; 5x7s of Downie Bros Circus, 1931, Cole-Beatty, 1936, Hagenbeck-Wallace, 1914, John Robinson, 1920; and four 8x10s from The National Circus Museum, autographed by Harry Kackley, 1956.)
    • Mighty Haag Circus - 1914 Box 3 Folder 150 (This folder contains one 8x10 photograph in red matt of Helen Haag, Harry James, Fay James, and Harry Haag, about 1914.)
    • Miscellaneous Box 5 Folder 243 Box 4 Folder 214 (This folder contains miscellaneous photographs from Pennell's collection, mostly unlabeled.)
    • Model Shows of America Box 3 Folder 156 (This folder contains two 3x5 black and white photographs of Model Shows of America "flats" being unloaded at Shelby, NC, 1931.)
    • The Old Texas Ranger Box 4 Folder 196 (This folder contains two 8x10 photographs of The Old Texas Ranger, autographed by Ed Hiler, 1957.)
    • Rubin and Cherry Box 4 Folder 185 (This folder contains 3x5 black and white photographs of Ruben and Cherry Exposition, many on the rails or unloading. Also included are pictures of Johnny J. Jones Exposition, Dodson's Shows, and Hagenbeck-Wallace Circus in transport.)
    • Sheesley Box 4 Folder 190 (This folder contains 3x5 black and white photographs of Greater Sheesley Shows and Mighty Sheesley Midway, Inc., undated)
    • from Walter B. Fox (This folder contains five black and white photographs in mailer from Walter B. Fox. Included are Hagenbeck Wallace Shows Combined, 1914, and Col. Tim McCoy's Real Wild West.)
    • Circus People Box 4 Folder 213
  • Printed Materials and Clippings
    • American Cemetery 1960, April
    • Amusement Business
      • 1963 January 5 issue
      • 1966 December 10 issue Pennell Death Notice (This issue of Amusement Business contains the death notice for George Pennell, p. 30, Final Curtain section.)
    • "Amusement Equipment is Auctioned" Box 5 Folder 223 (Article by Sid Bost from unnamed newspaper, Winston-Salem, NC, Wednesday Evening, September 2, 1964, with handwritten note.)
    • "The Big Top" book jacket Box 5 Folder 224 (Front flap of book jacket for The Big Top: The Story of Fred Bradna, Famous Equestrian Director of the World's Largest Circus.)
    • Birds in the Garden and how to attract them by Margaret McKenny, book jacket Box 5 Folder 225
    • Cherokee Ranch Rodeo souvenir program (Souvenir program (undated) for Cherokee Ranch Wild West Rodea, autographed by Arnold "Cap" Coffey, General Representative.)
    • C.H.S. Bandwagon (Publication of the Circus Historcial Society)
      • 1954, Vol. 1 - January Box 2 Folder 46
      • 1954, Vol. 2 - February Box 2 Folder 47
      • 1954, Vol. 5 - June Box 2 Folder 48
      • 1954 - July, August, September Box 2 Folder 49
      • 1954, Vol. 7 - October, November Box 2 Folder 50
      • 1954, Christmas Issue Box 1 Folder 51
      • 1955, March 17 Box 2 Folder 52
      • 1955, April Box 2 Folder 53
      • 1955, June Box 2 Folder 54
      • 1955, September-October Box 2 Folder 55
      • 1955, Christmas Issue Box 2 Folder 56
      • 1958, Volume 2, Number 2 March-April Box 2 Folder 57
      • 1960, Volume 4, Number 3 May-June Box 2 Folder 58
      • 1960, Vol. 4, No. 5 Sept.-Oct. Box 2 Folder 59
      • 1961, Volume 5, Number 4 July-August Box 2 Folder 60
      • 1961, Vol. 5, No. 5 Sept. Oct. Nov. Box 2 Folder 61
      • 1961, Vol. 5, No.6 December Box 2 Folder 62
      • 1964, September/October Box 2 Folder 63
    • "The Circus Parson" by Harry Ainsworth Dawson Box 5 Folder 226 (This poem is dedicated to Doc Waddell, Show Chaplain. undated)
    • Clyde Beatty-Cole Bros. Circus
      • Official Program and Daily Magazine 1960
      • Official Circus Route Book 1961
      • Official Program and Daily Magazine 1961 (Two copies.)
      • Magazine and Program 1964
      • Magazine and Program, 1966 (Two copies.)
    • Cole Bros. Circus Circus Magazine 1947
    • Crusades and Crinolines by Ishbel Ross - Book Jacket Box 5 Folder 227
    • "Down Memory Lane" by Walter B. Fox: August, September 1954; September 1956 (1954-1956) Box 5 Folder 228
    • Elf Khurafeh Temple, 18th Annual Shrine Circus Souvenir Program 1962 Box 4 Folder 191
    • Freddie Daw's Three-Ring Letter Box 5 Folder 229 (This folder contains a letter from Bettie and Freddie advertising the opening of the F.D. Circus Hobby Hall, Coral Gables, FL. and other articles for sale. undated. Included is a flyer picutring a small showing of Circusania on display at Miami Beach Ocean Front Auditorium.)
    • Galveston's Pleasure Pier brochure
    • James E. Strates Shows, 1948 26th Annual Tour Program Box 3 Folder 119
    • "The Language of the Circus Lot" by John W. Swann Box 5 Folder 230 (This folder contains a pamphlet of circus terms and definitions. undated)
    • Mills Bros. 3-Ring Circus Official 1952 Season Route Book Box 3 Folder 154 Box 3 Folder 153 (Includes handwritten note from Doc Waddell to George, undated, taped to inside cover of route book.)
    • Misc Box 5 Folder 244
    • "Pennell Doubts Public Will Let Circus Vanish" by Karl Fleming Box 5 Folder 231 (This folder contains a newspaper clipping from the Citizen Times, no date, with photo of George Pennell and interview material.)
    • Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus
      • Magazine and Program 1950 Box 3 Folder 165 (This program from 1950 contains autographs on the front cover, including W.H. Lamb, Noyelles Burkhart, Arthur Hoffman, O.F. Curley Stewart, Herbert DuVal and Lavenia DuVal.)
      • Circus Magazine and Program 1952 Box 3 Folder 166 (Two copies.)
      • Circus Magazine and Program 1954 Box 3 Folder 167
      • Route Book (1949, 1951, 1954-1955) Box 3 Folder 168-171
    • Terrell M. Jacobs, Biography of by Clarence E. Pfeffer Box 5 Folder 232 (This folder contains the biography of Terrell M. Jacobs, inscribed by Clarence E. Pfeffer, and two photographs: a b&w of a plaque in memory of Jacobs, and a b&w of Jacobs taken 1941, Hamid's Pier, Atlantic, New Jersey.)
    • Under the Big Top by Dixie Willson: Original articles from Good Housekeeping and photocopies (1931 June-October) Box 4 Folder 198-199
    • The White Tops (This publication is published bi-monthly by the Circus Fans Association of America, Rochelle, Illinois.)
      • 1962 January-February. Volume 35, Number 1. Box 4 Folder 203
      • 1962 March-April Volume 35, Number 2. Box 4 Folder 204
      • 1962 July-August Volume 35, Number 4. Box 4 Folder 205
      • 1962 November-December Volume 35, Number 6. Box 4 Folder 206
      • 1963 January-February Volume 36, Number 1. Box 4 Folder 207
      • 1963 November-December Volume 36, Number 6 Box 4 Folder 208
      • 1964 November-December Volume 37, Number 6. Box 4 Folder 209
  • Oversized Materials (This box contains miscellaneous oversized materials from the collection.)
    • American Circus Posters in Full Color, edited by Charles Philip Fox Box 6
    • Belle's Baby - 225 Pounds and All Elephant by Shana Alexander Box 6 (Article from unnamed publication on birth of an elephant in captivity.)
    • The Billboard: The World's Foremost Amusement Weekly June 17, 1950. Box 6
    • The Circus Review: The Only Exclusive Circus Newspaper Published in the United States, John Swann, owner and publisher
      • Vol. 6, No. 2 Spring, 1959 Box 6
      • Vol. 6, No 4 Fall, 1959 Box 6
      • Vol. VIII, No. 1 Winter, 1960 Box 6
      • Volume VII, No. 2 Spring, 1960 Box 6
      • Volume VII, No. 4 Fall, 1960 Box 6
      • Volume VIII, No. 2 Spring, 1961 Box 6
      • Volume VIII, No. 3 Summer 1961 Box 6
      • Volume IX, No. 2 Spring, 1962 Box 6
      • Volume X, No. 3 Fall, 1963 Box 6
    • Greater Show World - June, 1954-July/August, 1957. Box 6 (Miscellaneous pages from Greater Show World, with articles by Walter B. Fox, including "Down Memory Lane" and "Notes From Down on Mobile Bay.")
    • The Dignity of the Law and the Power of the Press poster Box 6 (Autographed by Starr DeBelle.)
    • Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus Souvenir Program and Magazine Box 6 (Spectacular Bicentennial Edition, 1975.)
    • Circus Tent watercolor Box 6 (Framed painting, 11X17, of circus landscape.)
  • Related Materials
    • Christmas Cards and Greetings Box 5 Folder 238
    • Correspondence Box 5 Folder 240 Box 5 Folder 242
    • Correspondence: Grigg, Charles Box 5 Folder 245
    • Ephemeral Materials Box 5 Folder 234-235

Summary Information

Repository
Z. Smith Reynolds Library Special Collections and Archives
Creator - Creator
Pennell, George Clingman
Title
George Pennell Collection of Circus Materials
ID
MS585
Date [inclusive]
1901-1966
Extent
9.0 linear feet  5 banker's boxes, 1 oversized flat box

Administrative Information

Publication Information
Z. Smith Reynolds Library Special Collections and Archives 2013
Revision Description
 Revised by Stephanie Bennett 2019
Conditions Governing Access
Collection is open to researchers. 
Preferred Citation
George Pennell Collection of Circus Materials (MS585), Z. Smith Reynolds Library Special Collections and Archives, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC, USA. 

Controlled Access Headings

Corporate Name(s)

Personal Name(s)

Subject(s)

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