Miniature Circus

Hello to all,
This is more an informational post than a question to be answered. I will preface the main reason for the post with a brief story so you know how I got to the present point. Some years ago while on vacation in southern Wisconsin, we went to a place called House on the Rock. It contains a wide assortment of all kinds of things. It really is a museum of sorts. In one area there was an incredible display of a miniature scale model circus that actually existed called the Hagenbeck Wallace Circus. The time period represented was the late 1920's -early 1930's. It truly was a sight to behold. I was captivated by it. It instantly brought back memories of sitting on my grandparents' front porch watching the entire circus troop to the lot. Then it was down to watch the tops (tents) go up. I couldn't wait for Dad to get off work so we could go to the big top for the performance that night.
While on vacation I had seen a flyer for Circus World Museum in Baraboo, Wisconsin which houses the largest collection of circus memorabilia in the world. I called to inquire if they could help in any way. That call lead me to join the Circus Model Builders International (CMB). This is a group that endeavors to build and own miniature circus equipment, whether it be a single unit or a complete outfit. We have a publication called the Little Circus Wagon that comes out every 2 months. The scales most commonly built are HO, O, 1/2', 3/4' and 1'. The latter means that for every 12' in full scale the model is 1'. I decided on 1/2'. The last 3 scales are the larger ones and there are not many commercially available figures and animals for purchase. How was I going to make the horses, clowns, performers, etc? A woodcarver, who was also a circus model builder, told me about the NWCA and kindled my interest in woodcarving. That was 13 years ago. I did not know about either organization initially. I truly have enjoyed this journey. The circus model building is very challenging and involves a very diverse set of skills from carving the people, animals, and ornate sides on the parade wagons to making tops, wagons and equipment from plans. If this sounds of interest, you can contact me for more information. To obtain an application for membership to our club contact the secretary treasurer:
Nancy McIntyre
P.O. Box 936
Mars, Pennsylvania 16046-0936

n338clay@nauticom.net

That I is how I got started in wood carving. I did not know that the CMB ever existed and that is why I am sharing this with you so you will know. It is a terrific hobby.
Thanks for taking the time to read this.

Tony