One of the famed Ringling brothers (1866-1936) who merged the Barnum & Bailey Circus with their own Ringling Bros. World's Greatest Shows to create a virtual monopoly of traveling circuses. DS, one page both sides, 8.5 x 14, January 11, 1919. Artist's contract and release between Barnum & Bailey/Ringling Bros and the acrobatic "Four Melillo Sisters," hiring them for the season of 1919. The contract notes that it is for "a second act performed by four ladies, assisted by Mr. Melillo." Signed at the conclusion in fountain pen by John Ringling and Salvador Melillo. In very good to fine condition, with overall rippling. The Ringling Brothers bought Barnum & Bailey Circus in 1907, operating it separately from their own until 1919—the year of this performance contract.
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