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The Trained Horses
"THE TRAINED HORSES", as the inscription reads, are two students dressed as both horse and rider. This performers were two of many people costumed as animals in the Union Circus.
Tessie, Our Pet
In lieu of real exotic animals, students crafted replicas for actors to wear during the parade. A giraffe, named "Tessie" according to the image's description, was a highlight of the event. One image shows the costumed students being driven downtown in a caged wagon, while the other shows the students stationed somewhere, possibly Ferry Field, with another student.
Men in Costume Pose for Photo
Students participating in the Union Circus dress in various costumes for a photograph. This photo was found in the scrapbook of former University of Michigan student, Stowell Stebbins. Some are knights and cavemen, while the most notable are animals (bear, rabbit, giraffe, monkey, and large cats). The image was inscribed "The Wild Beasts" which a caption below reading "GR-R-R-R-R-OWL", perhaps in reference to the large animals often found in other circuses of the day. No exotic animals made an actual appearance at the Union Circus, so students themselves filled that particular role. They pose for a group photo outside of the Ferry Field tents.
Michigan Union Circus Parade
A photograph inscribed "Michigan Union Circus Parade , Thompson Photo, 1909, No.131". Clowns, knights, horses, wagons, and a cage move down State Street. Families sit amongst the trees along one side of the old Ann Arbor trolly track. Toward the back of the image, children appear to be in conversation with members of a band.
Follow the Big "Peerade"
A lengthy article describing the upcoming "Mammoth Circus" put on by University of Michigan students for the purposes of fundraising. The Union Circus was organized by Director Bert St. John of Detroit. Various acts, including dance routines, horse back competitions, a western stage show with "Michigamua Indians"(white men in brownface), a slide down the big tent's top, and a variety of unspecified children's activities. Students and people beyond Ann Arbor's city limits are encouraged to visit.