Levi Silas Pigeon 

(1858 - 1939)

Began his career in the show business working with his father transporting the famous Esparanzo Flea Circus in the 1870's.


Sometime around 1886, Levi left the family business and headed to Louisville, Kentucky where he joined Fitzhugh's Great Vaudeville Company assisting the Great Hoxley as he wowed audiences with his "Cabinet of Curiosities". 

After having a run in with a knife thrower in 1889, Pigeon decided to establish his own traveling show, and the following year started one in his home town of New York. 

Taking note of the popularity of the Vaudeville shows, Pigeon made sure to provide a variety of acts including a Freak Show, a Burlesque act, Strongmen & Acrobats. 

The success of the circus allowed him to build the 'Pigeon Circus ~Pigeoniere Theatre' in 1898, and this became the permanent home of the show.

The building of the theatre also allowed Pigeon to extend the list of attractions and stores.  Over the years many stalls and booths were built to accommodate the Pigeon Circus vision; stores built included a dime museum, apothecary, curiosity shop and jewellery stand. 

Above all, Levi wanted a place where the crowds could indulge in his 'Menagerie of Delight'.
roll up! roll up!

 ***Step Right Up and discover the wonders of  Pigeon Circus! ***

This grand old theatre has many secrets to discover.  You will find remnants from the circus's history, forgotten objects stashed in the back of shelves and shiny souvenirs to entice one's senses.... There is something for everyone in this 'Menagerie of Delight'.

                             Finery                             

Gather round the glittering stall run the Burlesque Beauties.  Here you will find pieces of their amazing handmade jewellery and finery for sale, as they clean out their cramped dressing rooms.

                             Apothecary                      

Tip Toe through Dr Appleton's Apothecary and discover vials and jars filled with curious beasts and elixirs.  Be careful not to start a conversation with the Doctor, or else you'll never get away as he recounts tales of his adventures collecting potions and medical marvels. 

                             Curiosa                             

 The door at the end of the very long and dark corridor will lead you to the room of curiosities.  If you dare to step in, you will be pleasantly surprised as Betty, the Bearded Beauty guides you round the many interesting pieces gathered from all corners of the globe.

                             Souvenirs                        

Be enticed by the noisy and bright Souvenir Stall.  Filled to the rafters with mementos, trinkets & prints of your favourite performers, it's the one stop shop for all things Pigeon Circus.

                         The Boiler Room             

Do you need to speak to the Manager?  Then head over to the Boiler Room.  Amongst the steam and grease you'll be sure to find an answer.  

                             Pigeon Hole                    

The Pigeon Hole is the official broadsheet of the circus, documenting the coming  and goings of the circus, as well as keeping the populous informed of extremely interesting facts.  
 
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