Step back in time to revisit an era when the greatest shows on earth reigned supreme. Roll up to a Ten-in-One gallery of exhibits from days gone by. You'll hear stories from the pens of P.T. Barnum and Harry Houdini. You'll read news clips from the turn of the 20th century containing eyewitness accounts of the carnivals and circuses that entertained America before the age of television. From Barnum to Forepaugh to Buffalo Bill, meet the pioneers who made the circus great. There'll be clowns, oddities, geeks, and daredevils to inspire you. Come see the first woman to be shot out of a cannon. Read the story of Annie Oakley. Step on up to witness the marvels of Doc Carver's diving horses, General Tom Thumb, Jumbo the Elephant, and lion tamer extraordinaire Clyde Beatty. It's the era of snake oil salesmen, grifters, and gaffed games on the midway. It's the age of Barnum's American Museum, Luna Park at Coney Island, and the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago. Feast your eyes on more than 250 colorful posters and vintage photographs that bring those days to life. New from the co-author of Carnivale Darke comes this companion volume of tales, trivia, and hundreds of illustrations. From fairy floss to the high striker, from Freaks to The Greatest Show on Earth , this is the story of Carnivalia in its heyday. Note to readers: This book includes accounts of real-life fatal tragedies involving humans and animals. It also includes stories of sideshow performers with rare or unique physiques and/or skills. Some contemporary accounts reflect societal norms of their time and of carnival life. They in no way reflect the views of the author.