Joseph H. Wyman papers

Collection — Box: 1-3

Identifier: 117.8000

Staff Only

The Joseph H. Wyman papers are a collection of research notes, presentations, photographs, slides, and audio recordings relating to the history of circuses. Wyman’s research notes include essays on topics such as circus companies, animals, performers, and basic circus operations during the 18th through 20th centuries. Slides and pictures include depictions of traditional or old-time circuses, as well as images from the Ringling Museum and the Circus Hall of Fame. Wyman’s presentations on circus history included slides, audio recordings, and notes. Reference materials maintained by Wyman are also part of this collection.

The Joseph H. Wyman collection is arranged into three series. The materials are housed in three archival document boxes.

Dates

1947 - 1978
Majority of material found within 1960 - 1970

Conditions Governing Access

At this time, audio recordings are inaccessible to researchers due to a lack of playback equipment.

Conditions Governing Use

This collection is open for research use by staff of The Strong and by users of its library and archives. Though the donor has not transferred intellectual property rights (including, but not limited to any copyright, trademark, and associated rights therein), The Strong has permission to make copies in all media for museum, educational, and research purposes.

Extent

1 Linear Feet (3 boxes)

Additional Description

Overview

The Joseph H. Wyman papers are a collection of research notes, presentations, photographs, slides, and audio recordings relating to the history of circuses.

Biographical Note

Joseph H. (“Joe”) Wyman (1900-1978) of Ohio was a longtime circus enthusiast. Throughout his lifetime, Wyman treasured circuses and spent years researching their history. Wyman collected information from newspaper articles, interviews, visiting circuses and related museums. Wyman developed presentations from his research, incorporating visual slides and audio recordings to accompany his public lectures. Wyman served as Mayor of Grandview Heights, Ohio from 1966-1971. In 1968, the former Grandview Woods park was renamed Wyman Woods in his honor.

System of Arrangement

Series I: Research and presentations, 1947-1978 and n.d.

Series II: Images, 1971-1975 and n.d.

Series III: Audio recordings, 1964 and n.d.

Custodial History

The Joseph H. Wyman papers were donated to The Strong in 1978 as a gift from the estate of Mayor Joseph H. Wyman through Jerry R. Betts. The papers were accessioned by The Strong under Object ID 117.8000 and were received from the estate of Mayor Joseph H. Wyman through Jerry R. Betts along with one book. Preferred citation for publication: Joseph H. Wyman papers, Brian Sutton-Smith Library and Archives of Play at The Strong.