1903 Season: Difference between revisions
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{{Infobox season | {{Infobox season | ||
| year = 1903 | | year = 1903 | ||
| image = | | image = | ||
| management = The Olentangy Park Company<br />Joseph W. Dusenbury, president<br />William J. Dusenbury, secretary and treasurer<br />Frank Burt, circuit manager | |||
| management = Joseph W. Dusenbury<br /> | | season = May 17, 1903 - Sept. 20, 1903 | ||
| | | newattractions = [[Cave of the Winds]]<br />[[Ferris Wheel]]<br />[[House of Trouble]]<br />[[Laughing Gallery]]<br />[[Museum of Ornithology]]<br />Zoological Garden | ||
| newattractions = | |||
| stockcompany = Olentangy Park Stock Company | | stockcompany = Olentangy Park Stock Company | ||
| band = Herman Bellstedt's Famous Cincinnati Military and Concert Band<br />Wendell S. Powell's Olentangy Band | | band = Herman Bellstedt's Famous Cincinnati Military and Concert Band<br />Wendell S. Powell's Olentangy Band | ||
| size = | | size = 82-87 acres | ||
}} | }} | ||
Olentangy Park, Theater, and Zoological Garden opened for the 1903 season on Sunday, May 17, 1903.<ref>"Olentangy Park Opening." ''Saturday Columbus Dispatch.'' Feb. 28, 1903. Page 6.</ref> The opening saw an attendance of 15,000 patrons.<ref name="opening-attendance">"Beautiful Olentangy." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' May 18, 1903. Page 12.</ref> Herman Bellstedt's Famous Cincinnati Military and Concert Band played music for the park in the afternoons and evenings until July<ref name="opening">"Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' May 3, 1903. Pages 8-9.</ref><ref name="opening2">"Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' May 10, 1903. Page 6.</ref>, when Wendell S. Powell's Olentangy Band took over for the rest of the season.<ref name="bellstedtleaves">"Bellstedt Leaves Olentangy." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 8, 1903. Page 14.</ref><ref name="newband">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 13, 1903. Page 4.</ref> {{Tooltip |text = Five cents|tooltip = $1.83 in 2025 dollars}} gave patrons access to the band performances, attractions, rides, picnic areas, and zoo. Managers J. W. Dusenbury served as president, and Will J. Dusenbury served as secretary and treasurer of the Olentangy Park Co.<ref name="railwayreview1903">[https://archive.org/details/streetrailwayrev13amer/page/210/mode/2up "Columbus, O."] ''The Street Railway Review.'' April 20, 1903. Vol. 13. Issue 4. Page 112. Accessed through the Internet Archive.</ref> | |||
Most Sundays saw an attendance of 10,000 | Most Sundays saw an attendance of 10,000 to 12,000 visitors throughout the season.<ref name="closing">"Olentangy Closes." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' Sept. 21, 1903. Page 8.</ref> The park closed for the season on Sept. 20, 1903.<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''Saturday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 12, 1903. Page 4.</ref><ref name="weekofsept13">"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 13, 1903. Page 4.</ref>Over 16,000 parkgoers attended the closing day. Dusenbury planned to radically change the park and remodel the [[Olentangy Park Casino and Theater|casino]] for the next year.<ref name="closing" /> | ||
===Park Improvements=== | ===Park Improvements=== | ||
The Columbus Railway Company leased five acres south of the park, extending it as far south as Dodridge Street, affording new walks and picnic grounds.<ref name="preparing">"Olentangy Park." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch | The Columbus Railway Company leased five acres south of the park, extending it as far south as Dodridge Street, affording new walks and picnic grounds.<ref name="preparing">"Olentangy Park." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch.'' April 1, 1903. Page 9.</ref> As part of the remodeling of all the buildings, calcium light effects were added to the theater and 1,000 additional lights to the park this season.<ref name="opening-attendance" /> | ||
The [[Ball Grounds]] were improved, and the Modern Woodmen baseball team changed its name to the Olentangy Athletic Club.<ref>" | The [[Ball Grounds]] were improved, and the Modern Woodmen baseball team changed its name to the Olentangy Athletic Club.<ref>"Amateur Notes." ''Friday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 12, 1903. Page 11.</ref> | ||
Harry Crockett served as the park's electrician during the summer and spent the following winter in New York to join the Ben Hur Company before returning to Olentangy Park for the next season.<ref>"Brevities." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch | Harry Crockett served as the park's electrician during the summer and spent the following winter in New York to join the Ben Hur Company before returning to Olentangy Park for the next season.<ref>"Brevities." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 19, 1903. Page 6.</ref> | ||
''For ride and attraction changes, see the Rides and Attractions section.'' | ''For ride and attraction changes, see the Rides and Attractions section.'' | ||
| Line 29: | Line 26: | ||
==Injuries & Missing People== | ==Injuries & Missing People== | ||
Myrtle Comer, 8, fell 40 feet down the bank of the Olentangy River and broke her jaw on June 18 | Myrtle Comer, 8, fell 40 feet down the bank of the Olentangy River and broke her jaw on June 18.<ref>"Broke Her Jaw." ''Thursday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 18, 1903. Page 8.</ref> | ||
Bessie Egan, 16, went missing during a picnic at Olentangy Park on Wednesday, June 17.<ref>"Missing People." ''Thursday Columbus Dispatch | Bessie Egan, 16, went missing during a picnic at Olentangy Park on Wednesday, June 17.<ref>"Missing People." ''Thursday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 18, 1903. Page 9.</ref> | ||
==Lawsuits== | ==Lawsuits== | ||
| Line 38: | Line 35: | ||
''Main Article:'' [[Hays-Mackey v. The Olentangy Park Co.]] | ''Main Article:'' [[Hays-Mackey v. The Olentangy Park Co.]] | ||
In June, the Men's Association of North Columbus discussed opening North Street. Councilman Burr | In June, the Men's Association of North Columbus discussed opening North Street. Councilman Burr stated that J. W. Dusenbury had prepared a plat of the street, as well as a vacating ordinance for part of the street and an alley, claiming that North Street had never been a street and the alley had never been dedicated. The association members said there had been a road to the ford there for 80 years. Dusenbury built a fence on the line of an old road and would be willing to change it if necessary.<ref>"Gas, Water, and Weeds." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 24, 1903. Page 5.</ref> | ||
The Dusenbury brothers returned to court on | The Dusenbury brothers returned to court on Oct. 22, over Hays and Mackey's claim that they enclosed a 30-foot and 50-foot roadway within the park. They were ordered to remove the fences but were slow to do so, so Hayes and Mackey wanted a punishment. Judge G.H. Stewart ordered them to remove the fences, the restaurant, and the [[Dancing Pavilion (First)|dancing pavilion]] on the east side of the park. Some electric light poles were also ordered to be removed. The Dusenburys said the Edison Company would need to remove the poles and wires due to their high voltage, but promised to comply.<ref>"Ten More Days In Which to Move the Park Fence and Buildings." ''Thursday Columbus Dispatch.'' Oct. 22, 1903. Page 6. </ref> | ||
The Dusenburys removed the fences and sawed the old dining hall in half as well as part of the Dancing Pavilion by | The Dusenburys removed the fences and sawed the old dining hall in half, as well as part of the Dancing Pavilion, by Nov. 2. A row of posts leading from High Street to the park grounds was removed, and the holes were filled in.<ref name="sawed">"Roadways Cleared Up." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' Nov. 2, 1903. Page 7.</ref> | ||
==Rides and Attractions== | ==Rides and Attractions== | ||
===New Cave of the Winds=== | === New Cave of the Winds === | ||
''Main Article:'' [[Cave of the Winds]] | ''Main Article:'' [[Cave of the Winds]] | ||
Opening in June,<ref name="weekof0614">"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | Opening in June,<ref name="weekof0614">"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 14, 1903. Page 5.</ref> the Cave of the Winds was an attraction at many parks at the time, and usually were spaces where large gusts of wind would blow the hats off the parkgoers.<ref>Stanton, Jeffrey. [https://www.westland.net/venicehistory/articles/Chutes&LunaPark-LA.html "Chutes & Luna Park - Los Angeles - 1900 - 1912."] ''Venice History Site.'' Feb. 4, 2013.</ref> | ||
===New Ferris Wheel=== | ===New Ferris Wheel=== | ||
''Main Article:'' [[Ferris Wheel ( | ''Main Article:'' [[Ferris Wheel (1)]] | ||
A Ferris Wheel was first mentioned as | A Ferris Wheel was first mentioned as a ride at the park in 1903.<ref name="opening2" /> It is unknown if this was a new Ferris Wheel or one brought from Minerva Park. | ||
===New House of Trouble=== | ===New House of Trouble=== | ||
''Main Article:'' [[House of Trouble]] | ''Main Article:'' [[House of Trouble]] | ||
Also opening in June,<ref name="weekof0614" /> the House of Trouble was an attraction made of intricate mazes throughout.<ref>"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Thursday Columbus Dispatch | Also opening in June,<ref name="weekof0614" /> the House of Trouble was an attraction made of intricate mazes throughout.<ref>"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Thursday Columbus Dispatch.'' Sept. 10, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
===New Laughing Gallery=== | === New Laughing Gallery === | ||
''Main Article:'' [[Laughing Gallery]] | ''Main Article:'' [[Laughing Gallery]] | ||
The "Laughing Gallery" opened in a new building.<ref name="opening" /><ref name="opening2" /> | The "Laughing Gallery," featuring large funhouse mirrors, opened in a new building.<ref name="opening" /><ref name="opening2" /> It was most likely built by J. M. Naughton, who had a Columbus-based amusement construction company.<ref name="billboard">Advertisement. ''The Billboard.'' May 13, 1915. Vol. 17. Issue 19. Page 20. Accessed through the Internet Archive.</ref> | ||
===New Zoo=== | === New Zoo === | ||
Park manager J. W. Dusenbury was purchasing animals for a new park zoo as early as January. He traveled to Cincinnati to purchase yaks, camels, foxes, badgers, bears, raccoons, eagles, and pheasants from their zoological garden.<ref name="zoo1">"Olentangy 'Zoo.'" ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' Jan. 24, 1903. Page 6.</ref> He also purchased animals from Philadelphia.<ref>"Animals for 'Zoo.'" ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' Jan. 25, 1903. Page 9.</ref> The animal garden and housing were initially planned to be located east of the bowling alleys, the boathouse, and just west of High Street. The "bear pits" were dug at another part of the grounds for the "bruin" part of the collection of animals. The Dusenbury Brothers also considered putting the animals on the new ground just south of the park grounds.<ref name="zoo1" /> Later, the brothers opened the zoo in the extreme southwestern part of the park when the Columbus Railway Company leased them five acres south of the park. Two carloads of animals were brought in from New York, including tigers (including a royal Bengal tiger), elephants, a lion, a sun bear from Borneo, and other exotic animals. | |||
Park manager J.W. Dusenbury was purchasing animals for a new park zoo as early as January | |||
The zoo was described in a 1903 publication as "an entirely new and important feature of Olentangy Park, and will attract the thousands who love to see and study animal life. The collection consists of buffalo, dromedaries, elk, deer, lions, leopards, bear, wild hogs, wild cats, foxes, fowls, and a large variety of other rare and interesting specimens of wild animals, together with the finest taxidermist collection of birds to be found in the country."<ref name="historian">Barret, Richard E. 1984. "Olentangy Park: Four Decades of Fun." ''Columbus and Central Ohio Historian No. 1.'' April 1984. Page 8.</ref> This taxidermist collection became part of the new [[Museum of Ornithology]]. The carnivores were displayed in cages while herbivores were allowed to roam the nearby hillsides.<ref name="opening-attendance" /> The zoological sheds extended as south as Dodridge Street.<ref name="preparing" /> The zoo was free to park patrons.<ref name="opening" /> | The zoo was described in a 1903 publication as "an entirely new and important feature of Olentangy Park, and will attract the thousands who love to see and study animal life. The collection consists of buffalo, dromedaries, elk, deer, lions, leopards, bear, wild hogs, wild cats, foxes, fowls, and a large variety of other rare and interesting specimens of wild animals, together with the finest taxidermist collection of birds to be found in the country."<ref name="historian">Barret, Richard E. 1984. "Olentangy Park: Four Decades of Fun." ''Columbus and Central Ohio Historian No. 1.'' April 1984. Page 8.</ref> This taxidermist collection became part of the new [[Museum of Ornithology]]. The carnivores were displayed in cages while herbivores were allowed to roam the nearby hillsides.<ref name="opening-attendance" /> The zoological sheds extended as south as Dodridge Street.<ref name="preparing" /> The zoo was free to park patrons.<ref name="opening" /> | ||
In June, a disgruntled fired employee allegedly poisoned two | In June, a disgruntled fired employee allegedly poisoned two elk with arsenic. On more significant days, the elk were closely picketed but were otherwise allowed to roam freely. The same month, a spotted fawn, as well as a lioness from New York, were added to the zoo.<ref>"On His Trail." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 22, 1903. Page 5.</ref> | ||
"Billy Wolf," the West Virginia wolf sent to Detective John Dorgan, was given to Olentangy Park Zoo in July. The wolf was described as being where the "police can not arrest him for running a game," "very tame," and would "make a hit with the children who go there."<ref>"Now in the Zoo. | "Billy Wolf," the West Virginia wolf sent to Detective John Dorgan, was given to the Olentangy Park Zoo in July. The wolf was described as being where the "police can not arrest him for running a game," "very tame," and would "make a hit with the children who go there."<ref>"Now in the Zoo." ''Tuesday Columbus Dispatch.'' July 21, 1903. Page 6.</ref> | ||
===New Museum of Ornithology=== | ===New Museum of Ornithology=== | ||
''Main Article:'' [[Museum of Ornithology]] | ''Main Article:'' [[Museum of Ornithology]] | ||
Naturalist Oliver Davie moved an extensive collection of mounted birds and animals from Minerva Park to Olentangy Park. It was thought that Olentangy Park would be more accessible to local university students. There were over 1,500 specimens brought from Minerva Park, bringing the total to | Naturalist Oliver Davie moved an extensive collection of mounted birds and animals from Minerva Park to Olentangy Park. It was thought that Olentangy Park would be more accessible to local university students. There were over 1,500 specimens brought from Minerva Park, bringing the total to more than 3,000 by the opening.<ref name="opening" /> An aquarium was built in the center of the building - the first of its kind in Columbus.<ref>"Birds and Fish." ''Saturday Columbus Dispatch.'' Feb. 28, 1903. Page 11.</ref> | ||
===Dancing Pavilion=== | ===Dancing Pavilion=== | ||
| Line 92: | Line 87: | ||
The Figure Eight was described as a "three-way figure eight toboggan slide." This described how the riders go around the loops three times.<ref name="opening2" /> | The Figure Eight was described as a "three-way figure eight toboggan slide." This described how the riders go around the loops three times.<ref name="opening2" /> | ||
===List of Rides and Attractions=== | === List of Rides and Attractions === | ||
* [[Bandstand ( | * [[Bandstand (1)|Bandstand]] | ||
* [[Bathing Pavilion]] | * [[Bathing Pavilion]] | ||
* [[Boathouse]] - with electric launches<ref name="opening2" /> | * [[Boathouse]] - with electric launches<ref name="opening2" /> | ||
* [[Bowling alleys]] | * [[Bowling alleys]] | ||
* Cafe | |||
* [[Cave of the Winds]] '''NEW''' | * [[Cave of the Winds]] '''NEW''' | ||
* [[Crystal Maze]] | * [[Crystal Maze]] | ||
* [[Dancing Pavilion ( | * [[Dancing Pavilion (1)|Dancing Pavilion]] | ||
* [[Ferris Wheel ( | * [[Ferris Wheel (1)|Ferris Wheel]] '''NEW''' | ||
* [[House of Trouble]] '''NEW''' | * [[House of Trouble]] '''NEW''' | ||
* [[Laughing Gallery]] '''NEW''' | * [[Laughing Gallery]] '''NEW''' | ||
| Line 110: | Line 106: | ||
* Swings | * Swings | ||
* [[Water Toboggan]] | * [[Water Toboggan]] | ||
* | * Zoological Garden '''NEW''' | ||
==Theater, Vaudeville, and Stunt Performances== | == Theater, Vaudeville, and Stunt Performances == | ||
===Olentangy Park Theater=== | === Olentangy Park Theater === | ||
''Main Article:'' [[Olentangy Park Casino and Theater]] | ''Main Article:'' [[Olentangy Park Casino and Theater]] | ||
===Olentangy Park Stock=== | === Olentangy Park Stock === | ||
====Members==== | ==== Members ==== | ||
The Olentangy stock company included: <ref name="stocknotes">"Notes." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | The Olentangy stock company included: <ref name="stocknotes">"Notes." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' May 10, 1903. Page 7.</ref> | ||
* William Allen | * William Allen | ||
* Kate Blancke | * Kate Blancke | ||
| Line 144: | Line 140: | ||
* Helen Wilton | * Helen Wilton | ||
In June, Vail De Vernon resigned after marrying Lawrence Grattan. Meta Maynard took over her in the stock company.<ref>"At the Theaters." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 21, 1903. Page 5.</ref> | In June, Vail De Vernon resigned after marrying Lawrence Grattan. Meta Maynard took over her position in the stock company.<ref>"At the Theaters." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 21, 1903. Page 5.</ref> | ||
Helen Wilton left the company in July to join the "Wizard of Oz" in New York City.<ref name="WiltonLeaving">"Notes." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | Helen Wilton left the company in July to join the "Wizard of Oz" in New York City.<ref name="WiltonLeaving">"Notes." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' July 5, 1903. Page 5.</ref> | ||
Harry Dunkinson left in August to become the stage manager of "At the Old Cross Roads" in New York City.<ref name="lotsofnotes">"Notes." ''Thursday Columbus Dispatch | Harry Dunkinson left in August to become the stage manager of "At the Old Cross Roads" in New York City.<ref name="lotsofnotes">"Notes." ''Thursday Columbus Dispatch.'' July 30, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
The stock season ended on | The stock season ended on Aug. 15, and Benjamin Horning and his wife, Virginia Howell, left to prepare for their winter's work<ref>"Notes." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch.'' July 29, 1903. Page 4.</ref> where they were with the Ferris Clock Company in Minneapolis.<ref>"Notes." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 23, 1903. Page 9.</ref> The stock company performed Frederic L. Power's "Miss Tennessee" for the closing week.<ref>''The Billboard,'' Sept. 5, 1903. Vol. 15. Issue 36. Page 2.</ref> The play had been originally performed in Omaha. After the close of the season, he left for New York City to work with Kathryn Osterman in "Miss Petticoats."<ref name="lotsofnotes" /> Vaudeville was performed from Aug. 16 until the park's closing.<ref name="weekofaugust10">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 9, 1903. Page 9.</ref> | ||
==== Stock Performances ==== | ==== Stock Performances ==== | ||
| Line 164: | Line 160: | ||
|"Nancy and Company" | |"Nancy and Company" | ||
|Augustin Daly | |Augustin Daly | ||
|<ref name="stocknotes" /><ref>"The Summer Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref name="stocknotes" /><ref>"The Summer Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' May 16, 1903. Page 6.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|May 17-23, 1903 | |May 17-23, 1903 | ||
|"The Open Gate" | |"The Open Gate" | ||
| | | | ||
|Played in conjunction with Nancy and Company<ref name="amusements2">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Saturday Columbus Dispatch,'' May 23, 1903. Page | |Played in conjunction with Nancy and Company<ref name="amusements2">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Saturday Columbus Dispatch.'' May 23, 1903. Page 4.</ref><ref>[ https://archive.org/details/sim_billboard_1903-05-23_15_21/page/10/mode/2up"Parks, Pleasure Resorts & Summer Gardens: Park Notes."] ''The Billboard,'' May 23, 1903. Vol. 15. Issue 21. Page 11. Accessed through the Internet Archive.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|May 24-30, 1903 | |May 24-30, 1903 | ||
| Line 179: | Line 175: | ||
|"Jim the Penman" | |"Jim the Penman" | ||
|Sir Charles Young | |Sir Charles Young | ||
|<ref>"The Summer Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref>"The Summer Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' May 30, 1903. Page 8.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|June 7-13, 1903 | |June 7-13, 1903 | ||
|"Saints and Sinners" | |"Saints and Sinners" | ||
|Henry Arthur Jones | |Henry Arthur Jones | ||
|<ref>"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''Sunday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref>"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 7, 1903. Page 8.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|June 14-21, 1903 | |June 14-21, 1903 | ||
| Line 194: | Line 190: | ||
|"The Senator" | |"The Senator" | ||
|Sydney Rosenfeld | |Sydney Rosenfeld | ||
|<ref>"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Saturday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref>"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Saturday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 20, 1903. Page 4.</ref><ref>"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 21, 1903. Page 5.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|June 28-July 4, 1903 | |June 28-July 4, 1903 | ||
|"Resurrection" | |"Resurrection" | ||
| | | | ||
|<ref>"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref>"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 29, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|July 7-11, 1903 | |July 7-11, 1903 | ||
|"Camille" | |"Camille" | ||
| | | | ||
|<ref>"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref>"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' July 5, 1903. Page 5.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|July 13-18, 1903 | |July 13-18, 1903 | ||
|"Niobe" | |"Niobe" | ||
| | | | ||
|<ref>"Notes." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref>"Notes." ''Wednesday Columbus Dispatch.'' July 8, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|July 20-25, 1903 | |July 20-25, 1903 | ||
|"The Jilt" | |"The Jilt" | ||
|Dion Boucicault | |Dion Boucicault | ||
|<ref>"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref>"At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' July 19, 1903. Page 2.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|July 27- | |July 27-Aug. 1, 1903 | ||
|"Baby" | |"Baby" | ||
|Translated by Hennequin and DeNarjac | |Translated by Hennequin and DeNarjac | ||
|<ref name="weekjuly27">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref name="weekjuly27">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' July 26, 1903. Page 9.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | |Aug. 3-8, 1903 | ||
|"The Silent System" | |"The Silent System" | ||
| | | | ||
|<ref name="weekaugust3">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch | |<ref name="weekaugust3">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 3, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | |Aug. 3-8, 1903 | ||
|"Truth" | |"Truth" | ||
|Bronson Howard | |Bronson Howard | ||
|Played in conjunction with The Silent System<ref name="weekaugust3" /> | |Played in conjunction with The Silent System<ref name="weekaugust3" /> | ||
|- | |- | ||
| | |Aug. 10-15, 1903 | ||
|"Miss Tennessee" | |"Miss Tennessee" | ||
|Frederic L. Power | |Frederic L. Power | ||
| Line 239: | Line 235: | ||
===Vaudeville=== | ===Vaudeville=== | ||
=====Week of | =====Week of Aug. 16===== | ||
Acts and performances:<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | Acts and performances:<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 16, 1903. Page 9.</ref><ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''Tuesday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 18, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
* Adele Purvis Onri, spherical serpentine dancing | * Adele Purvis Onri, spherical serpentine dancing | ||
* James W. Teed and Miss Mollie Lazell, German comedy, "A Scandalous Affair" | * James W. Teed and Miss Mollie Lazell, German comedy, "A Scandalous Affair" | ||
| Line 249: | Line 245: | ||
* Tsude Kitchi, balancing stunts | * Tsude Kitchi, balancing stunts | ||
=====Week of | =====Week of Aug. 23===== | ||
Acts and performances:<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch | Acts and performances:<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 24, 1903. Page 4.</ref><ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''Tuesday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 25, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
* Bimm, Bomm, Brrr Trio, a musical act involving xylophones and a revolving electric wheel | * Bimm, Bomm, Brrr Trio, a musical act involving xylophones and a revolving electric wheel | ||
* The Great Koster, acrobat | * The Great Koster, acrobat | ||
| Line 256: | Line 252: | ||
* The Four Bakers, Blackface sketch | * The Four Bakers, Blackface sketch | ||
* Mlle Clio, dancing, singing, and monologue | * Mlle Clio, dancing, singing, and monologue | ||
* Tim Healy and Ella Farnum, singing and dancing (starting | * Tim Healy and Ella Farnum, singing and dancing (starting Aug. 24) | ||
* Professor Fink, trained mules, "Little Julie" and "Slap Bang" | * Professor Fink, trained mules, "Little Julie" and "Slap Bang" | ||
* The Meiers Family, high divers | * The Meiers Family, high divers | ||
=====Week of | =====Week of Aug. 30===== | ||
Acts and performances:<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch | Acts and performances:<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 30, 1903. Page 4.</ref><ref>"Notes." ''The Sunday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 30, 1903. Page 4.</ref><ref>"Notice to the Public." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 31, 1903. Page 6.</ref><ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''Monday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 31, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
* Soto Sunetaro, "The Japanese Wonder Worker," paper tricks, musical tricks, juggling, and more | * Soto Sunetaro, "The Japanese Wonder Worker," paper tricks, musical tricks, juggling, and more | ||
* The O'Rourke and Burnette Trio, song and dance | * The O'Rourke and Burnette Trio, song and dance | ||
* Mayme Childress and John C. Robisch, presenting "A Night in Paradise" | * Mayme Childress and John C. Robisch, presenting "A Night in Paradise" | ||
* The Three Troubadours, made of Casper Zarnes, Charles H. Van, and Hi Briggs, singing and comedy called "A Mix-Up" | * The Three Troubadours, made of Casper Zarnes, Charles H. Van, and Hi Briggs, singing and comedy called "A Mix-Up" | ||
* The Sisters Millar, banjos, song and dance | * The Sisters Millar, banjos, song, and dance | ||
* Tom Hardle, comedy acrobatic tramp act | * Tom Hardle, comedy acrobatic tramp act | ||
* The Marvelous Orton, high wire act | * The Marvelous Orton, high wire act | ||
* Al Lawson and Frances Namon, comedy cycling and artistic bag punching | * Al Lawson and Frances Namon, comedy cycling and artistic bag punching | ||
* Charles C. Kraft, high wire act | * Charles C. Kraft, high wire act | ||
* C.C. Doughty, entertainer (starting | * C.C. Doughty, entertainer (starting Aug. 31) | ||
* Bimm, Bomm, Brrr Trio, a musical act involving xylophones and a revolving electric wheel | * Bimm, Bomm, Brrr Trio, a musical act involving xylophones and a revolving electric wheel | ||
* Tim Healy and Ella Farnum, singing and dancing | * Tim Healy and Ella Farnum, singing and dancing | ||
=====Week of | =====Week of Sept. 6===== | ||
Acts and performances:<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''Tuesday Columbus Dispatch | Acts and performances:<ref>"Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." ''Tuesday Columbus Dispatch.'' Aug. 8, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
* Frannie Donivan, song and monologue | * Frannie Donivan, song and monologue | ||
* Weston Raymond Company, "Heart of Maryland" satirical sketch | * Weston Raymond Company, "Heart of Maryland" satirical sketch | ||
* Rinaldo, hoops and juggling act - from Columbus and employed with the David C. Boggs Company<ref>"Ability." ''The Newark Advocate.'' 15 | * Rinaldo, hoops and juggling act - from Columbus and employed with the David C. Boggs Company<ref>"Ability." ''The Newark Advocate.'' Sept. 15, 1903. Page 7.</ref> | ||
* Earl Taylor, baritone singer | * Earl Taylor, baritone singer | ||
* Renzetta and sister, acrobatic act | * Renzetta and her sister, an acrobatic act | ||
* Albert C. Waltz, unicycle and skates | * Albert C. Waltz, unicycle and skates | ||
* Misses Delmore [or Delmont], a musical act | * Misses Delmore [or Delmont], a musical act | ||
| Line 288: | Line 284: | ||
* Dicton, juggling | * Dicton, juggling | ||
=====Week of | =====Week of Sept. 13===== | ||
Acts and performances:<ref name="weekofsept13" /> | Acts and performances:<ref name="weekofsept13" /> | ||
* Jennie Calef and Andy Waldron, "Harriet's German Husband" | * Jennie Calef and Andy Waldron, "Harriet's German Husband" | ||
| Line 299: | Line 295: | ||
===Outdoor Performances and Stunts=== | ===Outdoor Performances and Stunts=== | ||
On June 17, Professor Fred Rapp, of Springfield, Ohio, performed a parachute jump from a balloon at the Columbus Retail Grocers' Association picnic.<ref>"Grocers' Picnic." ''Friday Columbus Dispatch | On June 17, Professor Fred Rapp, of Springfield, Ohio, performed a parachute jump from a balloon at the Columbus Retail Grocers' Association picnic.<ref>"Grocers' Picnic." ''Friday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 12, 1903. Page 13.</ref> | ||
==Music== | ==Music== | ||
Thirty musicians played in Herman Bellstedt's Famous Cincinnati Military and Concert Band during the afternoons and evenings.<ref name="opening" /> The public normally would have to pay $1 to $2 | Thirty musicians played in Herman Bellstedt's Famous Cincinnati Military and Concert Band during the afternoons and evenings.<ref name="opening" /> The public normally would have to pay {{Tooltip |text = $1 to $2|tooltip = $36.53 to $73.06 in 2025 dollars}} to listen to the band, but the park performances were included in admission.<ref>"Olentangy Park." ''Tuesday Columbus Dispatch.'' May 5, 1903. Page 4.</ref> Wendell S. Powell's Olentangy Band took over on July 12 and performed for the rest of the season<ref name="bellstedtleaves" /><ref name="newband" /> with George W. Bope as the general manager.<ref name="weekjuly27" /> | ||
For the Fourth of July, a special concert called "Dewey at | For the Fourth of July, a special concert called "Dewey at Manila" was performed.<ref name="july0401">"Amusements: Olentangy Park." ''Friday Columbus Dispatch.'' June 3, 1903. Page 4.</ref> | ||
==Activities== | ==Activities== | ||
| Line 324: | Line 320: | ||
* [[Canoe Club Boathouse|Boating]] | * [[Canoe Club Boathouse|Boating]] | ||
* [[Bowling alleys|Bowling]] - All year activity | * [[Bowling alleys|Bowling]] - All year activity | ||
* [[Dancing Pavilion ( | * [[Dancing Pavilion (1)|Dancing]] | ||
* Dining and Refreshments | * Dining and Refreshments | ||
* [[Ball Grounds|Football]] | * [[Ball Grounds|Football]] | ||
Latest revision as of 03:22, 3 October 2025
1903 Season
| Leadership | The Olentangy Park Company Joseph W. Dusenbury, president William J. Dusenbury, secretary and treasurer Frank Burt, circuit manager |
|---|---|
| Season | May 17, 1903 - Sept. 20, 1903 |
| New Attractions | Cave of the Winds Ferris Wheel House of Trouble Laughing Gallery Museum of Ornithology Zoological Garden |
| Stock Company | Olentangy Park Stock Company |
| Band(s) | Herman Bellstedt's Famous Cincinnati Military and Concert Band Wendell S. Powell's Olentangy Band |
| Park Size | 82-87 acres |
Olentangy Park, Theater, and Zoological Garden opened for the 1903 season on Sunday, May 17, 1903.[1] The opening saw an attendance of 15,000 patrons.[2] Herman Bellstedt's Famous Cincinnati Military and Concert Band played music for the park in the afternoons and evenings until July[3][4], when Wendell S. Powell's Olentangy Band took over for the rest of the season.[5][6] Five cents$1.83 in 2025 dollars gave patrons access to the band performances, attractions, rides, picnic areas, and zoo. Managers J. W. Dusenbury served as president, and Will J. Dusenbury served as secretary and treasurer of the Olentangy Park Co.[7]
Most Sundays saw an attendance of 10,000 to 12,000 visitors throughout the season.[8] The park closed for the season on Sept. 20, 1903.[9][10]Over 16,000 parkgoers attended the closing day. Dusenbury planned to radically change the park and remodel the casino for the next year.[8]
Park Improvements
The Columbus Railway Company leased five acres south of the park, extending it as far south as Dodridge Street, affording new walks and picnic grounds.[11] As part of the remodeling of all the buildings, calcium light effects were added to the theater and 1,000 additional lights to the park this season.[2]
The Ball Grounds were improved, and the Modern Woodmen baseball team changed its name to the Olentangy Athletic Club.[12]
Harry Crockett served as the park's electrician during the summer and spent the following winter in New York to join the Ben Hur Company before returning to Olentangy Park for the next season.[13]
For ride and attraction changes, see the Rides and Attractions section.
Injuries & Missing People
Myrtle Comer, 8, fell 40 feet down the bank of the Olentangy River and broke her jaw on June 18.[14]
Bessie Egan, 16, went missing during a picnic at Olentangy Park on Wednesday, June 17.[15]
Lawsuits
Hays-Mackey Fence Dispute Continues
Main Article: Hays-Mackey v. The Olentangy Park Co.
In June, the Men's Association of North Columbus discussed opening North Street. Councilman Burr stated that J. W. Dusenbury had prepared a plat of the street, as well as a vacating ordinance for part of the street and an alley, claiming that North Street had never been a street and the alley had never been dedicated. The association members said there had been a road to the ford there for 80 years. Dusenbury built a fence on the line of an old road and would be willing to change it if necessary.[16]
The Dusenbury brothers returned to court on Oct. 22, over Hays and Mackey's claim that they enclosed a 30-foot and 50-foot roadway within the park. They were ordered to remove the fences but were slow to do so, so Hayes and Mackey wanted a punishment. Judge G.H. Stewart ordered them to remove the fences, the restaurant, and the dancing pavilion on the east side of the park. Some electric light poles were also ordered to be removed. The Dusenburys said the Edison Company would need to remove the poles and wires due to their high voltage, but promised to comply.[17]
The Dusenburys removed the fences and sawed the old dining hall in half, as well as part of the Dancing Pavilion, by Nov. 2. A row of posts leading from High Street to the park grounds was removed, and the holes were filled in.[18]
Rides and Attractions
New Cave of the Winds
Main Article: Cave of the Winds
Opening in June,[19] the Cave of the Winds was an attraction at many parks at the time, and usually were spaces where large gusts of wind would blow the hats off the parkgoers.[20]
New Ferris Wheel
Main Article: Ferris Wheel (1)
A Ferris Wheel was first mentioned as a ride at the park in 1903.[4] It is unknown if this was a new Ferris Wheel or one brought from Minerva Park.
New House of Trouble
Main Article: House of Trouble
Also opening in June,[19] the House of Trouble was an attraction made of intricate mazes throughout.[21]
New Laughing Gallery
Main Article: Laughing Gallery
The "Laughing Gallery," featuring large funhouse mirrors, opened in a new building.[3][4] It was most likely built by J. M. Naughton, who had a Columbus-based amusement construction company.[22]
New Zoo
Park manager J. W. Dusenbury was purchasing animals for a new park zoo as early as January. He traveled to Cincinnati to purchase yaks, camels, foxes, badgers, bears, raccoons, eagles, and pheasants from their zoological garden.[23] He also purchased animals from Philadelphia.[24] The animal garden and housing were initially planned to be located east of the bowling alleys, the boathouse, and just west of High Street. The "bear pits" were dug at another part of the grounds for the "bruin" part of the collection of animals. The Dusenbury Brothers also considered putting the animals on the new ground just south of the park grounds.[23] Later, the brothers opened the zoo in the extreme southwestern part of the park when the Columbus Railway Company leased them five acres south of the park. Two carloads of animals were brought in from New York, including tigers (including a royal Bengal tiger), elephants, a lion, a sun bear from Borneo, and other exotic animals.
The zoo was described in a 1903 publication as "an entirely new and important feature of Olentangy Park, and will attract the thousands who love to see and study animal life. The collection consists of buffalo, dromedaries, elk, deer, lions, leopards, bear, wild hogs, wild cats, foxes, fowls, and a large variety of other rare and interesting specimens of wild animals, together with the finest taxidermist collection of birds to be found in the country."[25] This taxidermist collection became part of the new Museum of Ornithology. The carnivores were displayed in cages while herbivores were allowed to roam the nearby hillsides.[2] The zoological sheds extended as south as Dodridge Street.[11] The zoo was free to park patrons.[3]
In June, a disgruntled fired employee allegedly poisoned two elk with arsenic. On more significant days, the elk were closely picketed but were otherwise allowed to roam freely. The same month, a spotted fawn, as well as a lioness from New York, were added to the zoo.[26]
"Billy Wolf," the West Virginia wolf sent to Detective John Dorgan, was given to the Olentangy Park Zoo in July. The wolf was described as being where the "police can not arrest him for running a game," "very tame," and would "make a hit with the children who go there."[27]
New Museum of Ornithology
Main Article: Museum of Ornithology
Naturalist Oliver Davie moved an extensive collection of mounted birds and animals from Minerva Park to Olentangy Park. It was thought that Olentangy Park would be more accessible to local university students. There were over 1,500 specimens brought from Minerva Park, bringing the total to more than 3,000 by the opening.[3] An aquarium was built in the center of the building - the first of its kind in Columbus.[28]
Dancing Pavilion
Main Article: Dancing Pavilion
In October, the Dusenburys sawed off part of the Dancing Pavilion to comply with a court order.[18]
Figure Eight Toboggan
Main Article: Figure Eight Toboggan
The Figure Eight was described as a "three-way figure eight toboggan slide." This described how the riders go around the loops three times.[4]
List of Rides and Attractions
- Bandstand
- Bathing Pavilion
- Boathouse - with electric launches[4]
- Bowling alleys
- Cafe
- Cave of the Winds NEW
- Crystal Maze
- Dancing Pavilion
- Ferris Wheel NEW
- House of Trouble NEW
- Laughing Gallery NEW
- Merry-Go-Round
- Miniature Railway
- Museum of Ornithology NEW
- Shooting Gallery
- Swings
- Water Toboggan
- Zoological Garden NEW
Theater, Vaudeville, and Stunt Performances
Olentangy Park Theater
Main Article: Olentangy Park Casino and Theater
Olentangy Park Stock
Members
The Olentangy stock company included: [29]
- William Allen
- Kate Blancke
- Harry L. Dunkinson
- Charles Flemming
- Lawrence Grattan
- Mildred Hale
- Clarice Hall
- Benjamin Horning
- Virginia Howell
- Meta Maynard
- George T. Neiswender
- Frederic L. Power, stage director
- Elmer Sprague, scenic artist
- Edwin Tanner
- Algernon Tassin
- Guy Van Tress
- Vail De Vernon
- Beulah Watson
- William Webb
- Loretta Wells
- Helen Wilton
In June, Vail De Vernon resigned after marrying Lawrence Grattan. Meta Maynard took over her position in the stock company.[30]
Helen Wilton left the company in July to join the "Wizard of Oz" in New York City.[31]
Harry Dunkinson left in August to become the stage manager of "At the Old Cross Roads" in New York City.[32]
The stock season ended on Aug. 15, and Benjamin Horning and his wife, Virginia Howell, left to prepare for their winter's work[33] where they were with the Ferris Clock Company in Minneapolis.[34] The stock company performed Frederic L. Power's "Miss Tennessee" for the closing week.[35] The play had been originally performed in Omaha. After the close of the season, he left for New York City to work with Kathryn Osterman in "Miss Petticoats."[32] Vaudeville was performed from Aug. 16 until the park's closing.[36]
Stock Performances
| Dates | Performance | Writer | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| May 17-23, 1903 | "Nancy and Company" | Augustin Daly | [29][37] |
| May 17-23, 1903 | "The Open Gate" | Played in conjunction with Nancy and Company[38][39] | |
| May 24-30, 1903 | "The Silver King" | [38] | |
| May 31-June 6, 1903 | "Jim the Penman" | Sir Charles Young | [40] |
| June 7-13, 1903 | "Saints and Sinners" | Henry Arthur Jones | [41] |
| June 14-21, 1903 | "Christopher Jr." | Madeline Lucette Ryley | [19] |
| June 22-27, 1903 | "The Senator" | Sydney Rosenfeld | [42][43] |
| June 28-July 4, 1903 | "Resurrection" | [44] | |
| July 7-11, 1903 | "Camille" | [45] | |
| July 13-18, 1903 | "Niobe" | [46] | |
| July 20-25, 1903 | "The Jilt" | Dion Boucicault | [47] |
| July 27-Aug. 1, 1903 | "Baby" | Translated by Hennequin and DeNarjac | [48] |
| Aug. 3-8, 1903 | "The Silent System" | [49] | |
| Aug. 3-8, 1903 | "Truth" | Bronson Howard | Played in conjunction with The Silent System[49] |
| Aug. 10-15, 1903 | "Miss Tennessee" | Frederic L. Power | [36] |
Vaudeville
Week of Aug. 16
Acts and performances:[50][51]
- Adele Purvis Onri, spherical serpentine dancing
- James W. Teed and Miss Mollie Lazell, German comedy, "A Scandalous Affair"
- Nancy Rice, from Kentucky, a musical act involving the harp, mandolin, guitar, and songs
- The Gilbert Sisters, known as the American Nightingales
- The O'Rourke and Burnette Trio, eccentric dancers
- The Apollo Quartet
- Tsude Kitchi, balancing stunts
Week of Aug. 23
Acts and performances:[52][53]
- Bimm, Bomm, Brrr Trio, a musical act involving xylophones and a revolving electric wheel
- The Great Koster, acrobat
- Dick and Effie Guis, Blackface sketch
- The Four Bakers, Blackface sketch
- Mlle Clio, dancing, singing, and monologue
- Tim Healy and Ella Farnum, singing and dancing (starting Aug. 24)
- Professor Fink, trained mules, "Little Julie" and "Slap Bang"
- The Meiers Family, high divers
Week of Aug. 30
Acts and performances:[54][55][56][57]
- Soto Sunetaro, "The Japanese Wonder Worker," paper tricks, musical tricks, juggling, and more
- The O'Rourke and Burnette Trio, song and dance
- Mayme Childress and John C. Robisch, presenting "A Night in Paradise"
- The Three Troubadours, made of Casper Zarnes, Charles H. Van, and Hi Briggs, singing and comedy called "A Mix-Up"
- The Sisters Millar, banjos, song, and dance
- Tom Hardle, comedy acrobatic tramp act
- The Marvelous Orton, high wire act
- Al Lawson and Frances Namon, comedy cycling and artistic bag punching
- Charles C. Kraft, high wire act
- C.C. Doughty, entertainer (starting Aug. 31)
- Bimm, Bomm, Brrr Trio, a musical act involving xylophones and a revolving electric wheel
- Tim Healy and Ella Farnum, singing and dancing
Week of Sept. 6
Acts and performances:[58]
- Frannie Donivan, song and monologue
- Weston Raymond Company, "Heart of Maryland" satirical sketch
- Rinaldo, hoops and juggling act - from Columbus and employed with the David C. Boggs Company[59]
- Earl Taylor, baritone singer
- Renzetta and her sister, an acrobatic act
- Albert C. Waltz, unicycle and skates
- Misses Delmore [or Delmont], a musical act
- Al Lawson and Frances Namon, comedy cycling and artistic bag punching
- Tim Healy and Ella Farnum, singing and dancing
- Dicton, juggling
Week of Sept. 13
Acts and performances:[10]
- Jennie Calef and Andy Waldron, "Harriet's German Husband"
- Maude Beale Price, monologue
- The Buckeye Trio, comedy grotesque acrobats and contortionists, performing "A Tramp's Dream"
- Ethel H. Carter, pianist, singer, and storyteller
- The Freeze Brothers, tambourine spinners, spun 32 tambourines at one time
- The Howard Sisters, entertainers
- The Zamora Family, Mexican acrobats, performing their "Trapezio Trio Alquitner"
Outdoor Performances and Stunts
On June 17, Professor Fred Rapp, of Springfield, Ohio, performed a parachute jump from a balloon at the Columbus Retail Grocers' Association picnic.[60]
Music
Thirty musicians played in Herman Bellstedt's Famous Cincinnati Military and Concert Band during the afternoons and evenings.[3] The public normally would have to pay $1 to $2$36.53 to $73.06 in 2025 dollars to listen to the band, but the park performances were included in admission.[61] Wendell S. Powell's Olentangy Band took over on July 12 and performed for the rest of the season[5][6] with George W. Bope as the general manager.[48]
For the Fourth of July, a special concert called "Dewey at Manila" was performed.[62]
Activities
New Billiard Parlor
Main Article: Billiards
A billiard parlor was added to the park in 1903.[4]
Changes to Old Dining Hall
The Dusenburys sawed the old dining hall in half in October to comply with a court order.[18]
List of Activities
- Baseball
- Billiards
- Boating
- Bowling - All year activity
- Dancing
- Dining and Refreshments
- Football
- General Games
- Picnics
- Swimming
References
- ↑ "Olentangy Park Opening." Saturday Columbus Dispatch. Feb. 28, 1903. Page 6.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "Beautiful Olentangy." Monday Columbus Dispatch. May 18, 1903. Page 12.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 "Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. May 3, 1903. Pages 8-9.
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 "Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. May 10, 1903. Page 6.
- ↑ 5.0 5.1 "Bellstedt Leaves Olentangy." Wednesday Columbus Dispatch. June 8, 1903. Page 14.
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 "Amusements: Olentangy Park." Monday Columbus Dispatch. June 13, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Columbus, O." The Street Railway Review. April 20, 1903. Vol. 13. Issue 4. Page 112. Accessed through the Internet Archive.
- ↑ 8.0 8.1 "Olentangy Closes." Monday Columbus Dispatch. Sept. 21, 1903. Page 8.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." Saturday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 12, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 13, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 "Olentangy Park." Wednesday Columbus Dispatch. April 1, 1903. Page 9.
- ↑ "Amateur Notes." Friday Columbus Dispatch. June 12, 1903. Page 11.
- ↑ "Brevities." Wednesday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 19, 1903. Page 6.
- ↑ "Broke Her Jaw." Thursday Columbus Dispatch. June 18, 1903. Page 8.
- ↑ "Missing People." Thursday Columbus Dispatch. June 18, 1903. Page 9.
- ↑ "Gas, Water, and Weeds." Wednesday Columbus Dispatch. June 24, 1903. Page 5.
- ↑ "Ten More Days In Which to Move the Park Fence and Buildings." Thursday Columbus Dispatch. Oct. 22, 1903. Page 6.
- ↑ 18.0 18.1 18.2 "Roadways Cleared Up." Monday Columbus Dispatch. Nov. 2, 1903. Page 7.
- ↑ 19.0 19.1 19.2 "At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. June 14, 1903. Page 5.
- ↑ Stanton, Jeffrey. "Chutes & Luna Park - Los Angeles - 1900 - 1912." Venice History Site. Feb. 4, 2013.
- ↑ "Amusements: Olentangy Park." Thursday Columbus Dispatch. Sept. 10, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ Advertisement. The Billboard. May 13, 1915. Vol. 17. Issue 19. Page 20. Accessed through the Internet Archive.
- ↑ 23.0 23.1 "Olentangy 'Zoo.'" The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. Jan. 24, 1903. Page 6.
- ↑ "Animals for 'Zoo.'" The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. Jan. 25, 1903. Page 9.
- ↑ Barret, Richard E. 1984. "Olentangy Park: Four Decades of Fun." Columbus and Central Ohio Historian No. 1. April 1984. Page 8.
- ↑ "On His Trail." Monday Columbus Dispatch. June 22, 1903. Page 5.
- ↑ "Now in the Zoo." Tuesday Columbus Dispatch. July 21, 1903. Page 6.
- ↑ "Birds and Fish." Saturday Columbus Dispatch. Feb. 28, 1903. Page 11.
- ↑ 29.0 29.1 "Notes." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. May 10, 1903. Page 7.
- ↑ "At the Theaters." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. June 21, 1903. Page 5.
- ↑ "Notes." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. July 5, 1903. Page 5.
- ↑ 32.0 32.1 "Notes." Thursday Columbus Dispatch. July 30, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Notes." Wednesday Columbus Dispatch. July 29, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Notes." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 23, 1903. Page 9.
- ↑ The Billboard, Sept. 5, 1903. Vol. 15. Issue 36. Page 2.
- ↑ 36.0 36.1 "Amusements: Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 9, 1903. Page 9.
- ↑ "The Summer Theaters: Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. May 16, 1903. Page 6.
- ↑ 38.0 38.1 "Amusements: Olentangy Park." Saturday Columbus Dispatch. May 23, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ [ https://archive.org/details/sim_billboard_1903-05-23_15_21/page/10/mode/2up"Parks, Pleasure Resorts & Summer Gardens: Park Notes."] The Billboard, May 23, 1903. Vol. 15. Issue 21. Page 11. Accessed through the Internet Archive.
- ↑ "The Summer Theaters: Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. May 30, 1903. Page 8.
- ↑ "At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." Sunday Columbus Dispatch. June 7, 1903. Page 8.
- ↑ "Amusements: Olentangy Park." Saturday Columbus Dispatch. June 20, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. June 21, 1903. Page 5.
- ↑ "Amusements: Olentangy Park." Monday Columbus Dispatch. June 29, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. July 5, 1903. Page 5.
- ↑ "Notes." Wednesday Columbus Dispatch. July 8, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "At the Theaters: Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. July 19, 1903. Page 2.
- ↑ 48.0 48.1 "Amusements: Olentangy Park." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. July 26, 1903. Page 9.
- ↑ 49.0 49.1 "Amusements: Olentangy Park." Monday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 3, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 16, 1903. Page 9.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." Tuesday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 18, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." Monday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 24, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." Tuesday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 25, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 30, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Notes." The Sunday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 30, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Notice to the Public." Monday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 31, 1903. Page 6.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." Monday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 31, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park: Vaudeville." Tuesday Columbus Dispatch. Aug. 8, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Ability." The Newark Advocate. Sept. 15, 1903. Page 7.
- ↑ "Grocers' Picnic." Friday Columbus Dispatch. June 12, 1903. Page 13.
- ↑ "Olentangy Park." Tuesday Columbus Dispatch. May 5, 1903. Page 4.
- ↑ "Amusements: Olentangy Park." Friday Columbus Dispatch. June 3, 1903. Page 4.