Description
In April 1963, the circus came to Key West. This poster announced the Cristiani-Wallace Bros. “World’s Largest Circus,” set up on Roosevelt Boulevard next to the Howard Johnson’s and sponsored by the Fraternal Order of Police. There were afternoon and night shows on Saturday, April 6, and an afternoon-only show on Sunday, April 7.
The artwork is classic mid-century circus advertising, printed by the Globe Poster Corporation of Chicago. A grinning clown in a bowler hat, green plaid jacket, and big yellow bow tie has just lit a firecracker, while a wide-eyed clown below him yelps in alarm. A third little clown peeks over the first one’s shoulder. Bold red, white, and blue type spells out KEY WEST and the show dates.
Roosevelt Boulevard, Howard Johnson’s, and the local F.O.P. are details any longtime Conch will remember, which makes this a great conversation piece for anyone who loves old Key West.
The frame is made from recycled Key West lobster and stone crab trap wood. It is weathered silver-gray and still covered with real barnacles from its years in the water. A genuine Florida FWC spiny lobster trap tag from the 2023–2024 season is mounted at the bottom, adding a fitting touch of the working waterfront. The back is hand-lettered “Key West, FL,” “Cayo Hueso (Bone Key),” and “Conch Republic U.S.A.,” with the framer’s mark dated 2025.
Details:
- Circus poster: Cristiani-Wallace Bros. Circus, Key West, April 6–7, 1963
- Printed by Globe Poster Corp., Chicago
- Frame made from recycled Key West lobster/stone crab trap wood with natural barnacles
- Features an authentic Florida spiny lobster trap tag (2023–2024 season)
- Ready to hang, with a sawtooth hanger
- Winning bidder also pays shipping costs
All proceeds from this auction benefit the Sloppy Joe’s Foundation and its support for the Key West community.
