Felix Adler

Frank Bartlet Adler (better known by his stage name Felix Adler; June 17, 1895 – February 1, 1960), was an American circus performer and entertainer. Known as "The King of Clowns", he performed for Ringling Bros. Barnum & Bailey for 20 years. He was inducted into the International Clown Hall of Fame in 1989.

Life

Felix Adler was born in Clinton, Iowa on June 17, 1895. He became interested in performing at age 9, when a circus visited his hometown.

Adler and his wife, Amelia, ran the first American husband-and-wife independent circus, and he was the first clown to appear on television.

Amelia Adler appeared, in costume and makeup, as a guest on April 10, 1955 episode of the American television quiz program, What's My Line? Adler also appears as a clown in the 1952 film The Greatest Show on Earth.

Recognition

Adler was once photographed by American designer Charles Eames for the latter's visual slide presentation accompanied by circus music, a photograph which today retains fame in the form of a cover for the compact disc Circus Clown Calliope! Vols. 1&2.

He was inducted into the International Clown Hall of Fame in 1989.

Felix Adler is also honored by Clinton's Children Museum, it being named after him. The museum is one of only 5 in Iowa and is a staple in the Clinton & Fulton communities.