One of the several reasons the museum is putting on a circus exhibit is because Indiana's heritage includes a rich circus history. In the past Indiana has served as the winter headquarters for more than 40 circus troupes. Entire circuses, including their animals, would encamp in or near towns throughout the state for the winter between their performance seasons. Peru had the greatest number. The nation's network of railroads had made Indiana into a crossroads and a convenient place to stay.
Most of the old circuses have long since disbanded, but they formed the historical basis for the modern American circus. One American circus innovation that became very popular was to have more than one ring under the big top, with performances and tricks going on in each of the rings simultaneously. The famous three-ring circus got its start here.
Circus life was often difficult. Performers faced dangers on the job and rarely could find insurance. Imagine going to your insurance agent and putting down "death-defying daredevil" or "lion tamer" as your line of work. The setup and taking down of a circus, especially the main circus tent, was hard and sometimes hazardous work. You knew the big top was heavy when you saw elephants being used to hoist it.
Exhibit Narrative
