THE BALLOON MAN

Robert Cline on

facebookMay 19 , 2011

The Circus Historical Society is greatly saddened at the loss of Mr. John McConnell, who passed away May 16, 2011. He had been a member since 1971, and Board of Trustees member since 1998. He owned and produced Circus Royale from 1986 through 2005. He wrote many books including several on circus topics, including the Hanneford family and the Shrine circus that originated in Detroit, and authored articles on circus history. John is survived by his wife and three sons, two of whom were with him in the circus business, his daughters-in-law and four grandchildren. ( Photo is courtesy of Paul Guthiel )
Bill and I first met John on the Royal Hanneford Circus
way back in the early 70's when they played Salisbury, MD
I beleive that he was the man who put Tommy's show in arenas.
He was a real gentleman and showman!