Coney Island Sideshow, Surf Avenue, ca. 1915

Glass negative. From about 1915, this view of the front of what may be Brill's Circus Sideshow is incredibly detailed. According to The New York Clipper's July 29, 1916 issue Brill's Coney Island Circus Sideshow was "Opposite the Culver Line Station" putting the show across from the current Stillwell Avenue station, on Surf Avenue, near West 16th Street (see below). On the Bally stage is the outside talker and a broom suspension with a floating girl. The ticket taker puts his arm out to indicate the suspended girl is not supported.