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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.
Union Circus Tents and Activities
Ferry Field near State Street was transformed into the main center of Union Circus activities. Several large tents stand around the field, one housing what appears to be a large arena. Crowds of people wrap around the interior of the arena, while others watch as people attempt a towering slide. A small sign reading "5¢ Tickets" sits near the base of the slide.