It's a Circus out there !

Started our day, first at the Ringling Circus Museum, where we viewed this incredible scale circus model. Created by Howard Tibbals over a 40 year span, there are over 15,000 characters including people, animals, and all of the circus "trimmings".  Yes, these photos are of a model!

Need to mention that John Ringling and his brothers who grew up in Iowa, got into the circus business and eventually it became               "The Greatest Show on Earth".  From this and other dealings, Ringling became one of the wealthiest men of his era.  Had five homes plus his beloved custom built Pullman train car for when he traveled.

Next, we toured the rest of the circus museum where the 200+ year history is depicted, some of the great performers and performances, and the physical structures and vehicles.  Set up for a one day show, a circus tent larger than 3 football fields, support tents for staff and animals,  and the logistics to make this all happen so that the 15,000 attendees can enjoy the SHOW!

Then we took a 45 minute lead docent tour of the Ringling Art Museum, featuring John Ringling's private collection which he donated to the State of Florida.  The Baroque art from the 17th century fills the galleries in a beautiful building designed for his collection.

And finally, a tour of Ringling's Sarasota residence, Ca'D'Zan; a very gilded home built in the 1920s.  Used both as his winter retreat, but also the sales office for him selling land along the bay and Long Boat Key.



After today's adventure  Morey (being a rocket scientist) is considering being shot out of a canon. Should he?