Wardrobe Trunk of Dale Longmire
Artist
Oshkosh Trunk Company
(American, 1900 - 1949, later became Chief Trunk)
Datelate 20th-early 21st Century
MediumWood, metal, leather
Dimensions43 x 28 x 23 in. (109.2 x 71.1 x 58.4 cm)
ClassificationsTools and Equipment
Credit LineGift of the family of Dale Longmire, 2012
Object numberSN11387.14
In his career, Dale Longmire was a consummate white-faced clown, wardrobe designer, artist and manager. He grew up in Parkersburg, West Virginia, and fell in love with the circus at the age of five. In 1974, he was selected out of a field of thousands to attend Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey’s famed Clown College. He and only eleven others were signed on for the the 1975 Ringling show. Dale said of the circus, “It’s a complete lifestyle. It’s a job and it’s a life. It becomes a part of you.” Longmire was recognized in the circus world as a talented professional, who also excelled as an artist and designer.
Later in his career, Longmire designed elaborate and flashy costumes for not only himself, but also for circuses. After working with Ringling, he performed with Circus Vargas, Bentley Bros. and worked for Walker Bros. Circus. Longmire was president of Showfolks Sarasota.
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