Al. Ringling
Time period/Baraboo: 1860 -1915
Submitted by: Frederick D. Pfening III
Though he was born in McGregor, Iowa, Al Ringling moved to Baraboo with his family at a young age and it was here that he and his four brothers built a circus empire from scratch. Today the name Ringling is synonymous with circus and showmanship. Yet Ringling was also a tireless promoter of Baraboo and is responsible for several of the city’s most enduring landmarks including his mansion, the Ringling Brothers Circus winter quarters known locally as Ringlingville (now Circus World), and the theatre that bears his name. The Al. Ringling theatre in particular, built as a gift to Baraboo, stands as a testimony to his affection to his adopted home town. The name of Ringling will always remain a cornerstone of the cultural heritage of this unique Midwestern City.