1926 Portrait of Chas. Ringling and His Wife

This glass negative photograph captures Chas. Ringling and his wife on January 30, 1926. Chas. Ringling was a prominent member of the famous Ringling Brothers, known for founding the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. The circus was a beacon of entertainment in America, combining a variety of performances that delighted audiences for generations. By the 1920s, Ringling Brothers had solidified their place in history, and this image reflects a moment in the life of one of its key figures during a time when the circus was at the peak of its popularity.

Taken by Bain News Service, this photograph not only highlights an individual but also serves as a snapshot of an era characterized by significant cultural shifts. The 1920s marked a time of prosperity and change in the United States, where entertainment and leisure took on new forms. Ringling’s legacy in the circus world is monumental, and this photograph offers a glimpse into his life beyond the spotlight, reminding us of the human stories behind the larger-than-life performances that captivated countless fans across the nation.