Charles Ringling portrait

Regarded as the most musical of the seven brothers, Charles Ringling (1864-1926) performed as a soloist with the show early on. During the show’s 1884 season, he also directed the orchestra. Later, when the circus was well established, he was in charge of the Ringling Bros.’ poster advertisements. After Al’s death in 1916, Charles took over the organization of the show’s gala opening spectacles. From: Alfred Ringling, Life Story of the Ringling Brothers. Chicago, IL: R.R. Donnelley & Sons, Co., 1900, p. 17.