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Frank R. Clifton, the Great Raslus 1842 - 1904
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FRANK R. CLIFTON, real name Frank RILEY., born 1842, probably in Ireland., celebrated gymnast, acrobat, equestrian clown, circus performer, proprietor of the 'Raslus Troupe'. Professionally known as 'RASLUS' in the UK and Frank CLIFTON on the Continent and in the United States where he appeared frequently from the 1860's to 1890's. " The Prince of all Laugh Makers, acknowledged by all as the funniest clown in America, Happy Frank Clifton was the only clown of the present day adequate to wear the mantle of Grimaldi ". ref. New York Clipper, New York Library - King & Franklin Monster Shows consolidated with The Great American Museum & Trained Animal Exposition, Dayton, USA 14th August 1888.
Frank was a regular at The Oxford Gymnasium, Woodcock Street, Gosta Green, Birmingham where he resided for some years. Regarded as the King of the slack-rope, " The Great Raslus ", who made a sensation at The Oxford with his monkey sketch and the only man of his day able to work a somersault from a rocking rope to the ground level. Once he fell up to his chest through the stage floor breaking both an arm and a leg. It was a common sight to see him hobbling around on crutches convalescing from a circus accident and eager to try his luck again. ref: Joe Boganny, The Stage Newspaper, 29th April 1911.
Appeared with circuses in the UK, Ireland, Europe, USA, Central & Southern America, Mexico, Cuba, British Hondurus and India. On the Continent he played such shows as Renz & Schumann and toured with Mac & Alec Daniels, musical clowns, his brothers-in-law. First known appearance was in 1863 with Mc Collum's American Circus in India, later Frank Clifton, performed under John Henderson's management as a slack-rope performer at The London Agricultural Hall's Circus in 1865 then appears in 1870 as RASLUS, Roman Gyrist in both The Marylebone & Cambridge Music Halls in London. Noted at the Peele Park Gala, Bradford on 1876 on the rope in a stilt act with partners Alvarez & Tapolini. Toured in many circuses in the USA circa.1860's -90's including Adam Forepaugh, James T. Johnson's Circus,, The Imperial Brazillian Circus,, a horizontal bar act with Sam Ashton & Albert Garston,, Maybury, Pullman & Hamilton's Circus,, Orrin Bros Circus,, Burke & Co Circus, Cross & Leroy's Circus & teamed up with John McMahon on several occations. Last UK appearance unearthed was with F.Ginnett's Circus, Portsmouth with his Raslus Troupe of Hawkeye Indians as Raslus The Flying Man in Feb 1884. From the 1890's was based mainly in San Francisco becoming involved in other aspects of the entertainment world, was manager of The Orphium and People Palace Music Hall for some time.,circa.1895.
Frank married as Frank Clifton, a batchelor and an acrobat "son of Thomas Clifton, gentleman, deceased" at Whitechapel Register Office on 5th August 1869 to widow Sarah ALVAREZ formerly DANIELS otherwise TOLEDANO (of that illustrious Sephardic family, see Toledano History, and a descendant of the Earls of Egerton, sister of Joe Daniels the famous banjo player, composer, musician & professor of music, 1842-1915), Mac & Alec Daniels favourite musical clowns, reknowned on the Continent who were given courtesy titles of Counts .Adopted the surname LAZARUS circa. 1869. Became a citizen of the United States of America on 25th October 1870, re: Superior Court, New York County.
Father of Joe Boganny 1874-1943, Josh Clifton 1871-1948 & Mary Clifton (Polly Lloyd) 1872-?. Frank Lazarus died on 21st March 1904 aged 61, a retired Gymnast of Fern Cottage, Lincoln Road, Olton, Solihull, Nr. Birmingham. He was buried in a temporary common grave at Yardley Cemetery., the family plot being purchased by Mrs. Flora Adele Henberger (Flora Meers of The Meers Sisters and daughter of Hubert William Meers). Frank was reinterred a month later on the return of his touring family.
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Newspaper clippings and significant events up to 1904
*1842 August - Frank R. Clifton ( Frank Riley ) born. Probably the most accurate details regarding his birth and parentage are given on the USA 1900 Census which states that he was born in Canada (Eng) in August 1842 that his father was also born in Canada (Eng) and his mother having been born in Ireland. ref. 1900 USA Census, Ancestry.com.
*1863 January - The earliest record found - Foreign, Dramatic and Show News - Frank Clifton, Equestrian Clown, with Mc Collum's American Circus in India, is looked for in England soon., with a Company of native snake charmers and performing flying foxes. ref. New York Clipper, State Historical Newspaper Collection.
*1865 Dec - Frank Clifton performed under John Henderson's management on the slack-rope at the London Agricultural Hall's Circus. ref. John. M. Turner, Circus Friends Association.
*1869 Aug 5 - Marriage at Register Office, Whitechapel, London - Frank Clifton, age 27, batchelor, acrobat, father Thomas Clifton, deceased, a Gentleman and Sarah Alvarez a widow age 29, father Joshua Daniels, confectioner, both of 5, Bell Lane, Spitalfields, in the presence of William Bright and Ernest Augustus Coombes. ref. Marriage certificate.
*1870 Mar 6 - Raslus, Roman Gyrist - The Marylebone Music Hall, London. ref. University of London Archives.
*1870 Apr 3 - Raslus, Roman Gyrist - The Royal Cambridge Music Hall, London. ref. University of London Archives.
*1870 Apr 14 - Birth of Joshua Toledano at 17, Exmouth Court, Mile End, son of Abraham Toledano a general dealer and Sarah Toledano formerly Daniels. ref. Birth certificate.
*1870 Oct 25 - New York Petitions for Naturalization - Francis Reilly, former nationality 'Queen United Kingdon of Great Britain and Ireland, of 82nd Street, NYC, witnessed by Morgan Lewis of 232, West 22nd Street, NYC. ref. Ancestry.com
* 1871 Apr 2 - The Portland Arms, Portland Str, Kingston-upon-Hull, Yorks - Frank Raslus age 29 a Roman Gyrist born America* along with his wife Sarah Raslus age 31 born London* and son Joshua Raslus age 1 born London. ref. 1871 Census.
*1871 Jun 6 - Mr. Francis Clifton, aged 26, a Merchant, place of origin USA, travels from Brest & Le Havre, France to New York aboard the ss. Ville de Paris. ref. New York Passenger Lists, 1820 - 1957.
*1871 Jun 7 - Passenger Arrivals - Francois Clifton arrives in New York from Brest & Le Havre on board the ss. Ville de Paris. ref. New York Tribune, Fultonhistory.com.
*1872 Jan 7 - Birth of Mary Clifton at 1, Belle Vue Terrace, Clifton, Bristol daughter of Frank Clifton, Acrobat and Sarah Clifton formerly Toledano of the same address. ref. Birth certificate.
*1872 Fall - Frank Clifton, gymnast, acrobat - James T. Johnson's Circus, USA. ref. New York Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1872/3 Winter - Frank Clifton, gymnast, acrobat - Imperial Brazillian Circus, The Hippodrome, Philadelphia, USA. ref. New York Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1873 Jan 27 - Feb 9 - Messrs. Raslus & Alvarez - Celebrated gymnasts - Victoria Theatre Royal, West Hartlepool. ref. Bill Poster, Glasgow Archives.
*1873 Feb 16 - Messrs. Raslus & Alvarez - The Alhambra Music Hall, Sheffield. ref. The Era.
*1873 May 3 - Clifton Bros, a Horizontal bar act at Metropolitan Theatre, Indianapolis then to Cinncinnatti. ref. New York Clipper.
*1873 Sept 1 - Mr. Frank Clifton, aged 26, a Gent, place of origin USA travels from Liverpool England to New York aboard the ss. Calabria via Queenstown, Ireland. ref. New York Passenger Lists, 1820 - 1957.
*1874 Feb 7 - Birth of Joseph Toledano at 22, Christian Street, Birmingham son of Abraham Toledano, an acrobat and Sarah Toledano formerly Daniels of the same address.ref. Birth certificate.
*1874 July 18 - Frank R. Clifton, gymnast is commencing the season in California & Territory with Langrishe and Glenn's Blac Crook Company.........the only man that can accomplish this extra-ordinary feat,....with Frankie Etta. ref. New York Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1874 Aug 10 - Opened at Maguire's New Theatre, San Francisco - Langrishe and Glenn's Black Crook Co, principal attractions, Mlle. Jeanette Proscher and Ballet Troupe, the Runnels Family and F. R. Clifton, gymnasts. ref. New York Clipper, Veridian Digital Library.
*1874 Oct 26 - The Raslus Troupe, with Alvarey and Young Talodano - Dundee Music Hall. ref. Bill Poster, Dundee Local Studies Library.
*1875 - Frank Clifton - gymnast, acrobat - Horizontal bar act with Sam Ashton & Albert Gaston, Montomery Queens Circus, USA. ref. New York Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1875 May 13-15 - Frank Clifton with Montgomery Queen's Circus & Minagerie at Sacramento, California. Then Petaluma 24th and all cities Central and U.P.H.D. - is doing a Triple bar act with the show instead of Fred Levantine as hitherto stated. ref. New York Clipper.
*1876 Jun - Raslus & partners Alvarez & Tapolini - on the rope and in a stilt act - The Peele Park Gala, Bradford, Yorks. Whitsuntide. ref. The Era.
*1877 Mar 24 - The International Music Hall, Philladelphia - on 21st inst. F. R. Clifton and Forepaugh were new arrivals, a very clever horizontal bar act by Curry, Fox, Clifton & Forepaugh. ref. New York Clipper, Veridian Digital Library.
*1878 Apr 18 - Frank Clifton, artiste, on board the ss. City of Vera Cruz from Havana, Cuba, arrived New York on 24 April. ref. New York Passenger Lists, Ancestry.com.
*1878 Jul 20 - Chicargo Variety News - Clifton & Fox join Tony Denier's Co which begins its season about Sept. ref. New York Clipper.
*1878 Aug 3 - Clifton & Fox, the gymnasts par excellence on the triple horizontal bars. Performing somersaults from bar to bar. And their snap ~~~ feat of turning a double somersault from the bar to the stage, are engaged to travel the coming season with Tony Denier's 'Humpty-Dumpty' Tour and his standard Company. ref. New York Clipper.
*1878 Oct 13 - Clifton & Fox excellent gymnasts with Tony Denier's Company, a pantomime favourite. ref. Sunday Times, Syracuse, NY, State Newspapers.
*1879 Apr 1 - Clifton & Fox, astonish by excercise on horizontal bar, with Tony Denier's 'Humpty-Dumpty' Company - Whatling Opera House, ~ ~~~~. ref. Daily Courier, Syracuse, NY. State Historical Newspapers.
*1879 Nov 1 - A Car in which Nick Roberta, "Humpty Dumpty Troupe" were travelling was thrown from the track, a few miles from Mankato, Minnesota, in which they narrowly escaped from going down a steep embankment. Frank Clifton who received several severe injuries to his face was the only one injured. ref. NewYork Clipper, Veridian Digital Library.
*1879/80 - The New Chicargo - Gymnastic excercises by Clifton and Fox, bar performers with Tony Denier's Pantomime Troupe. ref. New York Clipper.
*1881 Apr 3 - Frank Raslus age 38, a gymnast born Middlesex, London* at 22, Christian Str, St. Annes, Liverpool along with his wife Sarah Raslus age 42 born Hull, Yorkshire, son Joseph* Raslus age 11 born Middlesex, London, daughter Mary Raslus age 9 born Gloucestershire, Bristol & son ____Raslus age 7 born Lancashire, Liverpool, all scholars. ref. 1881 England Census
*1881/2 - Frank Clifton alongside Grimaldi performing with Humpty Dumpty's Troupe at Tony Pastors New Fortmouth Street Theatre. ref. New York Clipper.
*1882 - Frank Clifton with Cole's Circus on the triple bar, 1 week. ref. New York Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1882 Sep 29 - Jottings from New Orleans - Frank R. Clifton recently closed a successful season of nine nights with a very strong Variety Company in Gorman's Pavillion. ref. New York Clipper, State Historical Newspapers.
*1882 Oct - Frank Clifton, gymnast arrived in this city 29th Sept from Columbria, SC with Ellen Cooke, equestrian. They had been with Mayberry, Pullman and Hamilton's Circus which is to be sold by the Sherrif Oct 5 in Columbria SC. ref. New York Clippr, State Historical Archives.
*1882/3 Winter - Frank Clifton, gymnast, acrobat, left Oct 18 for Mexico to join Orrin Bros & Co's Circus. ref. New York Clipper.
*1884 - Frank Clifton, gymnast, acrobat - Burke & Co Circus, USA. ref. New York Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1884 Winter - Frank Clifton, performing as talking Clown & Equestrian Director of Cross & LeRoy's Transatlantic Circus, Aviary & Wonders, USA. ref. New York Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1884 Feb 9 - The Raslus Troupe as the Hawkeye Indians and Raslus as the Flying Man, terrific and unbounded success. Complimented by F. Ginnett, Esq./ Vacant Monday next. Wire to Raslus, F. Ginnett's Circus, Portsmouth. Big novelty, Fetes, Circuses, Halls. &c. ref. The Era.
*1884 Apr 11 - Frank Clifton, gymnast with Andy Showers and their monkies to King Burke & Co Circus.ref. New York Clipper.
*1885 Apr 24 - Mr. F. Clifton & Mr. J. McMahon travel as United States citizens aboard the Steamer Principia of the New York, Havana & Mexican Mail Steamship Line from Vera Cruz to New York. ref. Ellis Island Passenger Records.
*1885 May 2 - John S. Mc Mahon and Frank R. Clifton proprietors of McMahon & Clifton Circus arrived Apr. 24 on the Pricipia from Mexico. They closed season there, Clifton joins King, Burke & Co second season and McMahon goes to ~~~~~ref. New York Clipper.
*1885 May 2 - July 25 - John S. Mc Mahon and Frank R. Clifton proprietors of Mc Mahon and Cliftons Circus. ref. New York Clipper.
*1885 Nov 21 - Frank R. Clifton and David B. Lewis have formed a circus company for a tour through Central and Southern America. Their first stand will be at Belize, British Hondurus, Dec 1st. (ref: New York Clipper, NY Library)
*1885 Boxing Day - The Raslus Troupe, and Alvez Bros in Pantomime, The Forty Thieves at The Rotunda Theatre, Liverpool. ref. The Stage Newspaper
*1886 Feb 26 - The Rotunda, Liverpool, The Raslus Troupe. ref. The Stage Archives.
*1886 Oct 6 - The Raslus Troupe - Day's Concert Hall, Liverpool.ref. The Stage.
*1886 - Frank Clifton, leased a Refreshment Saloon from Sig. Farinia and will not now be leave with King, Burke & Co Circis. ref. New York Clipper.
*1886 - Frank Clifton and Oscar Lowanda form circus for touring USA. ref. New York Clipper.
*1887 Jan 22 - Wanted , People in All Branches of the business. Dutch and Irish Teams, etc. Long engagement. Salaries must be low. Address Lowanda & Clifton's Specialty Co., Somerset, Pa, USA. ref. New York Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1887 Aug 20 - Lowanda & Clifton Circus. ref: Promotional advert New York Clipper, NY Public Library.
*1887 Mar 12 - Frank R. Clifton, late of Cole's Circus, and formerly Clifton & Fox, with Tony Denier's Humpty Dumpty Co., is at present in the employ of the Southern Pacific Railroad as a bill-clerk, with headquarters in San Fransisco. He is an Ottowa, Can., boy, and a brother-in-law of our correspondent. ref: Article, New York Clipper, NY Public Library.
*1888 Aug 14 - " Happy Frank Clifton, the acknowledged Prince of all Laugh Makers & the funniest clown of the present day adequate to wear the mantle of Grimaldi " - King & Franklin's Monster Shows, Dayton, Chicargo, USA. ref: Clipping, NY Clipper, New York Public Library.
*1890 Apr 24 - Frankie Clifton at the Fountain Theatre, Minnesota. ref. NY Clipper.
*1890 - Frankie Clifton at the Theatre Comique, Minnesota, wk. comm. 16th May. ref. NY Clipper.
*1890 Nov 26 - Marriage at the Register Office, Birmingham of Mary Clifton, spinster age 18, Equestrian, dau. of Frank Clifton Gymnast & William Molesworth Lloyd age 21 a batchelor and Equestrian, son of James Lloyd, Circus Proprietor, both of 7, Blucher Street, Birmingham in the presence of Sarah Ann Pullinger & Frank Clifton. ref. Marriage certifiacte.
*1891 Mar 28 - New York, Dramatic News - Frank R. Clifton, press agent for Mc Mahon International Hippodrome Circus & Menagerie. ref. New York Clipper, State Historical Newspaper Collection.
*1891 Apr 5 - Frank Raslus a visitor age 49 and a Gymnast at 39, Westburn, Cambuslang, Lanarkshire, Scotland. ref. 1891 Scotland Census.
*1891 Apr 5 - Sarah Raslus, Head age 47, Housekeeper born Hull, Yorkshire, Clara Raslus age 8 scolar born Ipswich, Suffolk and Alfred Bedini, Lodger age 31, a Juggler born Wolverhampton, at 7, Blucher Str, Birmingham. ref. 1891 England census.
*1891 Apr 5 - William Lloyd age 20, Boarder, Professional Equestrian born Birmingham, and his wife Pauline (Mary Clifton) Lloyd age 19 a Professional Equestrian, born Bristol living at 18, Brook Str, Wakefield, Yorks. ref. 1891 England Census.
*1892 Sep 20 - Bros. Clifton (Josh & Joe) Marvellous Staircase Performers, for one week, Edwin Croueste's Grand Modern Circus, Scarborough, Yorkshire, UK. ref. The Era.
*1893 May 25 - Provincial Variety News - Cheltenham Winter Gardens, twice daily, Raslus in an excellent performance on the high wire. ref. The Stage Archives.
*1893 Apr 1 - Raslus, Champion Flying Wonder, vacant May & Easter, Circus, Galas, Gardens & Halls - Wire Raslus, 63, Wrentham Street, Birmingham. ref: The Era.
*1893 Apr 27 - Marriage at the Register Office, Birmingham between Joseph Clifton age 22 a batchelor and an Acrobat son of Frank Clifton an Acrobat and Betsy Yellowitz age 21 a spinster dau. of Isaac Yellowitz a Tailor, both of 63, Wrentham Street, Birmingham. In the presence of Matilda Genge & Charles Pippard Genge. ref. Marriage certificate.
*1893 May 7 - Marriage at the Register Office, Birmingham of Joshua Lazarus age 23 a batchelor and Acrobat son of Frank Clifton an Acrobat and Rachel Lyons age 23 a spinster dau. of Mark Lyons deceased a Commercial Traveller, both of 63, Wrentham Street, Birmingham. In the presence of Betsy Yellowitz & Joseph Lazarus. ref. Marriage certificate.
*1893 May 28 - Marriage at the Synagogue, Birmingham of Joseph Lazarus age 19 a batchelor and Acrobat son of Frank Lazarus a Gymnast and Betsy Yellowitz age 19 a spinster dau. of Isaac Yellowitz a Tailor of 63 & 62, Wrentham Street, Birmingham. In the presence of B. Woolf & J. Fink. ref. Marriage certificate.
*1893 May 23 - Raslus, in an excellent performance on the high-wire - Variety entertainment at The Winter Gardens, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire. ref. The Stage Newspaper.
*1893 Jun 5 - Frank. L. Clifton, aged 40, an Artist, on board the ss. Berlin travelling from Southapton to New York. ref. New York Passenger Lists.
*1893 Jul 28 - Alhambra Palace Theatre, Missouri - The Carrolls, Valvo (the Jap), Grace Moore, Harry Klink (pedestrian), Higgins & Milligan, Tommy Wallace, John Williams, Lillie Mason, Lottie Horne, Frank Clifton and Eva Howard. A walk has been constructed around the entire garden for Harry Klink to show his speed. ref. Library of Congress, Washington.
*1893 Aug 11 - Theatrical Notes - ..........It is one intention of Frank R. Clifton, manager of the Peoples Palace Varieties ~~~~~~controlled by Cliff Phillips to organize and send on the road, once a month, the best foreign variety talent procurable, as an advertisment for the city show. These companies, under the name of the Ideal Vauderville Company, will give performances in all of the large towns in California......ref. New York Clipper, Library of Congress.
*1893 Nov/Jan 1894 - The Great Clifton Troupe - 10 weeks with Cooke's Circus, Edinburgh, Scotlandref. The Era.
*1894 Apr 18 - Birth of Samuel Lazarus at 62, Wrentham Str, Birmingham. Father Joseph Lazarus an Acrobat and Betsy Lazarus formerly Yellowitz. ref. Birth certificate.
*1894 Apr 27 - The Grove Street Theater, in conjunction with San Francisco's great music-hall, the Orpheum, will be opened to the public as a first class place of family amusement on Monday, April 30. It is proposed to give a refined vaudeville entertainment, introducing new features every week. Mr. F. R. Clifton, a very competent man, will have full charge of the Grove. ref: The Theaters, San Francisco Call, California Digital Collection.
*1894 Jun 7 - People's Palace Music Hall has now added to its active management Mr Frank R. Clifton, formerly of the Orpheum. ref: The Morning Call, San Francisco, University of California, Riverside.
*1894 Jun 10 - Peolpe's Palace Music Hall - Gus Phillips, manager of this popular place of amusement has called to his aid Frank R. Clifton , formerly connected with the Alcazar. The team had given new life to the Palace, about the arrangement of which there is quite a foreign air. ref: University of California, Morning Call, San Francisco.
*1894 Jul 1 - A Free Show - The People's Palace Music Hall, under the management of the proprietor, Cliff Phillips, assisted by Frank R. Clifton as musical director, corner of Eddy and Mason Streets, is now giving a programme of vaudeville, opera and comedy, without money and without price. The auditorium is a vast one and will seat thousands. ref: The Morning Call, San Francisco, Library of Congress.
*1894 Jul 19 - Tiverton, Drill Hall - Mr. Henry Poole opened with his Myriorama and Variety entertainment, including The Clifton Brothers, cause roars of laughter. ref. The Stage Archive.
*1894 Nov 4 - The Eden Musee Syndicates - A syndicate has leased the Eden Musee on Market Street, San Fransisco in conjunction with a 'Wonderland' and conducted along the same lines as 'Keith' in New York, Boston & Philadelphia - business manager, Frank R. Clifton. ref: San Fransisco Call, California Digital Collection.
*1894 Nov 4 - 'Wonderland' - A Continuous Performance Show. A new departure in the amusement world of San Fransisco at 729, Market Street. Managers Frank R. Clifton and A. F. Turpin. Promoted by the Wonderland Amusement Company. Market Street, opposite Examiners Office. The home of mystery and mirth. The greatest novelty. Most gigantic enterprise upon the Pacific Coast. Opens Saturday afternoon, November 17th. You will see - Our superb stage shows, The Enchanted Princess, The Electric, Scenic Theatorium, and 100,000 other wonders. Continuous Amusement. Every Afternoon & Evening from 1pm to 10.30pm. Going on all the time. Just think of it. ALL FOR ONE DIME. The Only Real New Thing In Town. Managers Frank R. Clifton & A. F. Turpin. ref: San Fransisco Call - San Francisco Call, California Digital Library.
*1894 Nov 18 - 'Wonderland'. A Continuous Performance Show. A new departure in the amusement world of San Fransisco - opened yesterday in the four storey brick building, 729, Market Str. The whole edifice being devoted to it, to a large and much satisfied attendance of the public. The show includes a circus hall, an electric scenic theatorium, a lecture hall, and a theatre in its departments, & the entertainment embraces mirth, music, and novelty of the vauderville class, as well as effects illusive, scientific & apparently supernatural in their nature.This enterprise is promoted by the Wonderland Amusement Co, but its immediate management is in the hands of A. F. Turpin and assisted by Frank R. Clifton, both competent men in this time. Only 10 cents is charged for admission and by payment of a dime the visitor may spend four or five hours taking in all that is novel and curious in the shows of today. ref: San Fransisco Call, The Theatres Article - CDNC.
*1895 Feb 15 - 'Louisa Matson's - Double Sued - Frank R. Clifton, the proprietor of a dime museum, has filed a suit against Albert Van der Naillen, H. J. Huber, John Doe and Jane Doe, asking for an injunction to prevent them for exhibiting a women as the "only genuine Miss Matson in male attire", The complaint recites that the plaintiff has engaged the only original Louisa E. R. Matson at great expense and that his business is being injured by the defendants, who falsely and fraudulently represent Jane Doe to be the male impersonator. He askes for $25,000 in addition to an injunction. ref: The Morning Call, San Francisco, The Library of Congress.
*1895 Feb 21 - Frank R. Clifton had dismissed his action against A. Van der Naillen, as the latter had nothing to do with the matter out of which the litigation arose. ref: The Morning Call, San Francisco, Library of Congress.
*1895 Jul 13 - The Clifton's - Grand Floral Fete, Wolverhampton. ref. The Era.
*1895 Jun 8 - ....On account of the dangerous condition of his wife's health Frank R. Clifton, the manager of the Santa Cruz Circus Royal and Venetian Water Carnival has resigned his position and has gone to a sanitorium to await his wife's convalescence.........ref. Morning Call, San Francisco, Library of Congress.
*1895 Oct 3 - Ohing's Circus - Mr. Ohing after a successful season at Douglas, returns with a good Co., including The Clifton Troupe.ref. The Stage Archives.
*1895/6 Christmas - The Three Clifton Brothers - F. Ginnett's Circus, Belfast, Ireland. ref. The Era Archives.
*1896 Jan - The Two Cliftons - Walford Bradie's Show - Theatre Royal, Hereford. ref. The Era Archives.
*1896 Jan - The Three Clifton Brothers - Croueste's Circus, Preston, Lancs. ref. The Era Archives.
*1897 January 31 - 'Sailed Away', The 'Australia' Carries Well-Known Passengers to the Islands. Among those sailing on the steamship Australia for Honolulu on Tuesday, Jan 26th was Frank R. Clifton. ref. San Fransisco Call, CDL.
*1897 Jan - Leicester Floral Hall - Gilberts Circus, including The Three Cliftons, are champion acrobats.ref. The Stage Archives.
*1897 February 13 - Theatrical - Latest by telegraph, Frank Clifton has gone to Honolulu to introduce the 'Vitascope' there. ref. New York Clipper.
*1897 Sept 5 - Theatrical, latest by telegraph - Frank Clifton, formerly manager of the Orpheum and Peoples Palace Music Hall has just returned from a visit to New York. He has made arrangments to act as the Pacific Coast representative of ( ' Stu**?) ( the manager of the Corbett and Fitzsimmons fight in Mexico ) who has a big scheme of the 'Vitascope', plans to introduce it to the large cities of the Coast. ref. NYC.
*1897 Nov 4 - Bideford, Clifton Bros, essentric Dutch Knockabouts, well meant the applause they receive. ref. The Stage Archive.
*1897 Nov 11 - Weston-Super-Mare, Victoria Hall - Messrs. H. & F. Poole's Myriorama opened on Monday, The Clifton Brothers in "The Dutchman's Carnival of Fun" which is executed in a clever manner.ref. The Stage Archives.
*1898 Feb 17 - Liverpool, Paddington - the turns include Clifton Brothers. ref. The Stage Archive.
*1898 Nov 24 - Llanelly, The Royalty - Messrs. Harry & Fred. Poole with their new & updated Myriorama, Variety Co. including The Clifton Bros. ref. The Stage Archives.
*1899 Jan 19 - Tonypandi, The Royal - Poole's Myriorama, acts most noteworthy being those of The Clifton Brothers, knockabouts. ref. The Stage Archives.
*1899 Mar 9 - The Grand, Bolton - The Clifton Brothers. ref. The Stage Archive.
*1899 Mar 19 - Announcements - Deaths - CLIFTON - In this city, Millie E. beloved wife of Frank R. Clifton, a native of Boston, aged 48 years and 6 months. ref: The San Francisco Call, Veridian Digital Library.
*1899 Jul 6 - Huddersfield, Royal - The Northern Theatre Co. Ltd. Harry H. Hamilton's Panorama & Variety Co., are here., including The Clifton Brothers. ref. The Stage Archive.
*1899 Jul 7 - Chester Music Hall - Messrs. F. & H. Poole opened here on Monday for 12 nights. A first class Variety Co., including The Clifton Brothers. ref. The Stage Archive.
*1899 Aug 12 - The Three Clifton Brothers at Cooke's Circus, Edinburgh with their knockabout Railway Porter Act & Comic Acrobatic Hercules. Smash Hit !! ref. The Era Archives.
*1899 w/c Sep 2 - The Three Clifton Bros - Manchester Free Trade Hall. ref. The Era Archives.
*1899 Sep 9 - The Clifton Brothers at Henglers Circus, Glasgow. ref. The Era Archives.
*1899 Nov 4 - The Royal Clifton Brothers - Risley Act etc., Transfield Circus, Lincoln. ref. The Era Archives.
*1899 Nov 11- The Clifton Brothers at the funeral of Mrs. Transfield, Canwick Road Cemetery, Lincoln. ref. The Era Archives.
*1899 Nov 11 - Advert - The Three Clifton Brothers - The Old Firm at Liberty for our Eccentric Porter; also Acrobats, two distinct acts; Wire - 27, Vaughton Street, Birmingham. ref. The Era Archives.
*1899 Nov 11 - Advert - The Royal Clifton Brothers - Acrobatic Knockabout Dutch Act, also Knockabout Risley Act. Two Comic Numbers. Big Success at Transfield Circus, Lincoln - at liberty Monday next - for terms and dates, 30, Lower Essex Street, Birmingham. ref. The Era Archives.
*1900 May 31 - "The Royal Clifton's" - The Great Breakaway Ladder and Shoulder Perch, also Risley Artists, One Big Number, the Act of Modern Times, will be at Liberty shortly for Home or Abraod. Now on Tour. Address - 30, Lower Essex Street, Birmingham. ref. The Stage Archive.
*1900 Jun 1 - Frank Clifton age 57, white, married, birth 1842 Aug, naturalised in1870, born Canada, Father born Canada, Mother born Ireland,US citizen 1870 - 30 years, occupation Circus Foreman, lodging at 1117 Market Street, San Fransisco, California, USA. ref. USA Federal Census.
*1900 Oct 18 - The Three Boganny's - Hamilton's Excursions, Public Hall, Preston, Lancs. ref.The Stage Newspaper.
*1901 Mar 31 - Frank Clifton, Head, 58, Circus Gymnastic Artiste, own account, born America, Bangor Maine, Sarah Clifton, wife, 61, Yorkshire, Hull, and grandchildren Nellie Clifton 9, William Clifton 8 & Harold Clifton 7 all born Birmingham, living at 27, Vaughton Str, Birmingham.( these youngsters were William Lloyd & Mary (Pauline) Clifton's children) ref. 1901 England census.
*1901 Mar 31 - Joseph Boganny, Married age 30, Acrobat, Exhibition, worker, born Birmingham, along with Charles Boganny*, boarder age 14, a Music Hall Artist & acrobat born Birmingham,and Jack Boganny*, boarder age 15, Music Hall Artist & acrobat, born Birmingham (*unclear who these two boys were), boarding at 89, Caroline Str, Wigan, Lancs. ref. 1901 England Census.
*1901 Mar 31 - Boganny's wife and children found at 30, Lower Essex Street, Birmingham along with the Yellowitz family - Betsy Clifton, married age 27 born Birmingham, Samuel Clifton age 4 and Annie Clifton age 3 both born Birmingham. ref. 1901 England Census.
*1901 UK Census - Joshua Clifton's wife and two children found visiting Joseph Levsin & family at 28, Clevedon Street, Birmingham - Ray* Clifton (Rachel) married age 30, Doris M. Clifton age 6 & Gladys E. Clifton age 2 months all born Birmingham (ref: RG 13/2812/22)
*1901 Jul 6 - The Three Boganny's - The Originators of Comedy Risley and the talk of Barrow - The Empire, Bristol,. nb. only 15th July freeref. Era Archives.
* 1901 Aug 24 - The Three Boganny's - under Mr. E. H. Bostock - Scottish Zoo, Glasgow. ref. Era Archives.
* 1902 Summer - The Three Boganny's - Voluntary performance for the Coronation Celebrations, King Edward V1 & Queen Alexandra. ref. Era Archives.
* 1902 Oct 4 - Death of Sarah Lazarus, aged 63yrs wife of Frank Lazarus, gymnast at 27, Vaughton Street, Birmingham, informant Joshua Lazarus son in attendance of 143, Spring Hill, Birmingham. ref. Death certificate.
* 1902 Oct 6 - Burial of Sarah Lazarus at Witton Jewish Cemetery, Birmingham. ref. Birmingham Hebrew Congregation Archivist, Judith Joseph.
*1903 Jan 29 - London Theatre & Variety, Clapham - Clifton Bros. ref. The Stage Archive.
*1904 Mar 21 - Death of Frank Lazarus aged 61, retired gymnast at Fern Cottage, Lincoln Road, Olton, Solihull, Warwick & Worcester, Joshua Lazarus, son in attendance of Spring Hill, Birmingham. ref. Birmingham City Council, death certificate.
*1904 May 23 - After temporary interment Frank Lazarus was buried at Yardley Cemetery, South Yardley, Birmingham, Warwickshire. ref: The Hon. Archivist, Birmingham Hewbrew Congregation, Mrs. Judith Joseph.
*1904 May 27 - Joe Boganny's Lunatic Bakers - The Hippodrome, Tonypandy, Wales. ref. The Era Archives.
*1904 Oct 8 - The Three Bogannis* - The Alhambra, London. ref. The Era archives.
*1904 Oct 13 - The Five Boganny's - The Middlesex Music Hall, Drury Lane, London. ref. The Era Archives.
last updated Dec 2009.
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Please contact me with any information regarding Frank Clifton, The Great Raslus - Thank you - jrb@raslus.co.uk