An extraordinary chapter of American entertainment history is now preserved at the nation’s most prestigious cultural institution.
The Library of Congress has received a landmark donation of archival materials from The Greatest Show On Earth®, spotlighting over 150 years of circus artistry and innovation from the iconic Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Circus.
Honoring a Century-Spanning Spectacle
Feld Entertainment, the global leader in live touring experiences, has donated historic materials from its personal collection to the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C.
The event, marked in March 2025 during the Library’s Live! at the Library series, commemorates the cultural importance and artistic evolution of the American circus.
The Collection: A Visual and Historical Journey
The donation offers an in-depth look into the vibrant history of circus performance, cultural shifts, and creative storytelling.
Items span the 19th to 21st centuries, including:
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The earliest known photograph of P.T. Barnum’s circus (1872)
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A 1968 souvenir program from Feld’s first season managing the circus
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A 1999 program celebrating Jonathan Lee Iverson, the first Black ringmaster of a major U.S. circus
Each artifact represents a milestone in diversity, innovation, or performance artistry. Together, they shape a narrative of continual reinvention under Feld Entertainment’s stewardship since 1967.
A Living Timeline of American Performance
The display of these artifacts at the Library of Congress doesn’t just preserve history—it brings it to life.
Visitors can explore costumes from the Bicentennial Spectacular and The Living Carousel, admire archival photos of the famed Ringling circus train, and view original printed programs that once captivated audiences across the nation.
Highlights from the Circus Archives
| Year | Artifact | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1872 | Photograph of P.T. Barnum’s Circus | Earliest visual record of the traveling circus |
| 1968 | Souvenir Program | Marks Feld Entertainment’s first season |
| 1972 | Circus Train Photo | Symbol of nationwide reach and mobility |
| 1976 | Bicentennial Costume | Celebrated U.S. history through live spectacle |
| 1999 | Ringmaster Program | Featured Jonathan Lee Iverson’s historic debut |
Above: A look at five artifacts capturing pivotal moments in circus history.
Feld Entertainment’s Role in Shaping the Modern Circus
Since acquiring Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® in 1967, Feld Entertainment has led the circus into the modern age.
Their innovations have included:
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Immersive audience experiences tailored for today’s family audiences
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Streamlined touring logistics, expanding accessibility across North America
By donating these items, Feld continues its commitment to preserving live performance as both a historical and evolving art form.
Cultural Significance and Public Access
The Library of Congress, as the world’s largest library, serves as a national repository of creative expression and this donation enhances public access to the rich heritage of circus performance.
Scholars, educators, and enthusiasts alike can explore the collection both on-site and through curated digital exhibitions.
Celebration at the Library
The official donation event featured a live showcase from the current Greatest Show On Earth® tour, adding a dynamic element to the celebration.
Performers interacted with guests, highlighting the living tradition of circus storytelling and its continuous reinvention.
Explore the Circus Legacy
This donation is more than a historical archive—it’s a celebration of a uniquely American spectacle that has entertained millions.
With materials now accessible to the public, a new generation can appreciate the artistry, ambition, and cultural significance of The Greatest Show On Earth®.
Learn More
Discover the full scope of the donation, upcoming exhibitions, and digital access to the Library’s collections by visiting loc.gov.
For more about Feld Entertainment and its global portfolio of live touring experiences, explore feldentertainment.com.
Sources: Library of the Congress.
