The youngest of the five Ringling brothers, he was the last surviving brother and in 1929 purchased the Circus Corporation of America, which gave him control of eleven circuses. ALS in pencil, one page, 8 x 11, extremely elaborate, colorful Barnum and Bailey Greatest Show on Earth, General Offices and Winterquarters, Bridgeport, Conn. letterhead, Thursday. In full: “Jack, Whenever you are ready cut into the job. Just go ahead as if you had not been away. I have advised Worrell that you are coming back. I want you to be with it as I am sure you would not be satisfied to stay home all summer.” Accompanied by the equally ornate, original mailing envelope addressed to “Mr. John Snellen” in Ringling’s hand. In very good condition, with folds, edge toning, a vertical fold touching one letter of the signature. The consignor dates this letter between 1909 and 1919 as the letterhead is for Barnum & Bailey alone, as opposed to B&B/Ringling Brothers. The recipient of the letter was “Happy” Jack Snellen and he was the “Boss Canvas Man” who, at times, had approximately a thousand people under his supervision. Evidently, this letter was welcoming him back from some absence. R&R COA.
