Posted: Sep 27, 2010 NORTH PORT - The Gulf Coast community will honor legendary circus performer and North Port resident Manuel "Junior" Ruffin with a public memorial service Tuesday.
Ruffin first started working in the circus industry at age 13. He became the first African American animal trainer in 1952.
Before his death, Ruffin was inducted in to the circus ring of honor, and broke yet another barrier by being the first African American to do that as well.
Ruffin lived in North Port for 30 years.
Tuesday's public memorial is at 5pm at the George Mullen Community Center next to North Port City Hall (4956 City Center Boulevard).
For more information about the memorial service call 941-628-2919.
Ruffin first started working in the circus industry at age 13. He became the first African American animal trainer in 1952.
Before his death, Ruffin was inducted in to the circus ring of honor, and broke yet another barrier by being the first African American to do that as well.
Ruffin lived in North Port for 30 years.
Tuesday's public memorial is at 5pm at the George Mullen Community Center next to North Port City Hall (4956 City Center Boulevard).
For more information about the memorial service call 941-628-2919.
No comments:
Post a Comment