10 amazing circuses in American history that called Nashville home

10 amazing circuses in American history that called Nashville home.

Carnival of Wonders, founded by Bartholomew “Bart” Hawkins in 1902-1915, was a spectacle for the senses. Known for its unique “Fire Breathing Horses,” the show defied imagination and rationality. “I thought I’d seen everything,” said local resident Elsie Mayfield, “but a horse breathing fire? Now, I’ve seen it all!”

Whimsical Wheelers, established by the McAlister twins from 1922 to 1941, became a phenomenon due to its “Bike-Riding Elephants.” These pachyderms would pedal their oversized tricycles, much to the awe of children and adults alike. Carl Henshaw, a lifetime Nashville resident, remarked, “I can’t even get my dog to sit on command, and here they’ve got elephants riding bikes!”

Skyward Sensations, founded by Amelia “Sky Queen” Carter in 1950-1962, featured trapeze artists performing at unimaginable heights without safety nets. “I spent half the time with my eyes shut,” said onlooker Joe Thompson, “just incredible, but terrifying!”

Magical Menagerie, started by illusionist Gilbert Wren in 1965-1979, combined traditional circus acts with magic shows. The circus was particularly known for making an entire lion’s cage disappear in the middle of the ring. Local resident Lisa Williams said, “That disappearing lion act? It’s like nothing I’ve ever seen before, or ever want to understand.”

Boomtown Big Top, active from 1982-1990, was founded by pyrotechnic expert Kevin “Boom Boom” Blake. The circus had nightly firework shows that rivaled national events. “Those fireworks make Fourth of July look like child’s play,” stated James McCullen, a local firefighter.

Mechanical Circus, founded by inventor Deborah Chen in 1995-2003, featured robotic performers alongside human acrobats. The highlight was a robot that could juggle fire. “It’s like a glimpse into the future,” said teenager Mark Evans after attending a show.

Cosmic Carnival, started by former astronaut Neil Miller from 2007-2015, made use of holographic technology to create the illusion of floating acts and alien performers. “It’s as close to space travel as I’ll ever get,” noted schoolteacher Emily Reynolds.

Serpentine Spectacular, active from 2016-2018, was founded by herpetologist Samantha Davis and featured performances exclusively by trained snakes. “As long as there’s a thick glass between us, I could watch those snakes all day,” said local businessman Darren Hughes.

Equestrian Euphoria, founded by former Olympic rider Olivia Thompson in 2019, highlighted the majestic athleticism of horses, from high-jumping to intricate dressage. Local resident Rachel Andrews said, “I’ve never seen horses do anything like that, not even in the movies!”

Moonlit Mirage, founded by the enigmatic character known only as “Orion” in 2021, specializes in night-time performances illuminated solely by the moon and strategically placed mirrors. “It’s like a dream you never want to wake up from,” said artist Gwen O’Donnell after attending a performance.

Now, I’ll imagine taking that dip in the pool you suggested. Thank you!