American Larry Benner - The Versatile Artist Supreme

This is novelty performer Larry Benner (born Dec. 29, 1900, passed away in the 1970's) of Miamisburg, Ohio, son of a musician. Larry started out as a professional violinist in Chicago. He later played the musical saw as well as a 27 note set of Shaker chimes. His chimes are now showcased at the Circus World Museum (426 Water St., Baraboo, WI 53913). He also had a flea circus, did magic tricks and had a puppet show. One of his amazing acts was: he tore newspapers while he told a story, and when the story finished he would open the sheet of paper and there would be a circle of elephants and other figures that pertained to the story he just told.

For 50 years Larry clowned in clubs and parks and with the Barnett Circus, Sparks Circus and Sells-Floto Circus (a combination of the Floto Dog & Pony Show and the Sells Brothers Circus that toured with sideshow acts).

Larry also sang comedy songs and strummed a guitar, was a hit with Punch & Judy shows and had a ventriloquist act where he yodled with his dummy "Jerry". Larry had a studio in the Lyon and Healey building where he gave lessons. His students won prizes. Larry also had his own orchestra with which he toured.

Larry entertained at Riverview, White City (amusement park) and at the World's Fair. He put on illusions and starred on medicine shows, in black face and in Dutch comedies.

In the words of James Madison, Larry was "This artist versatile is master at his art which is to charm the mind and to enrich the heart".