Wildlife Safari imports 1979

Wildlife Safari's Spring Newsletter discusses the arrival of African elephants to the Oregon drive-through in the 1970s.

With gratitude to Jesse Golden for sharing, "Wild Times," the newsletter for members of the Wildlife Safari, discusses the beginnings of said park thanks to naturalist and businessman Frank Hart.

In 1972 Frank was able to convince his employer, Walker and Lee, to develop 600 acres in Winston, Oregon. The site was ideal for a large reserve that could display animals from around the world in a natural setting. With rolling hills abundant in foliage and water resources closely resembling African and Asian terrain, a large variety of animal life could be supported. Wildlife Safari opened the next year.
http://www.wildlifesafari.net/cur/documents/Spring2012final4-6-12.pdf

Courtesy of Wild Times, Spring 2013

Circus Report Elephant Census 1985

A February 1986 issue of Circus Report documented performing elephants across the United States. Elephant listings such as these provide an invaluable resource, not only to help track transfers and sales to new owners, but also to give an overall view of a show's herd at a given time. The recording for the 1985 season lists several elephants, both African and Asian, for which no further information can be found at this time. More information is sought regarding these animals and their history.

R. Olsen - African female "Alecki"

D. McAuliffe - African female "Daisy"

Grover Callahan - African female "Eatewa"

Marty Dennis - Asian female "Gypsy"

Steve Martin - Asian female "Jenny"

Pat Guthrie - Asian female "Lisa"

Ringling show 1955

These images were shared for publication on ShowMe Elephants by a circus fan last year. They appear to show the Ringling show circa 1955.

Smokey Jones & "Louie"
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus 1955