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The Educated Mules at the Alhambra Palace, 1858. Creator: Unknown
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The Educated Mules at the Alhambra Palace, 1858. Creator: Unknown
The Educated Mules at the Alhambra Palace, 1858. American circus in London: Messrs. Howes and Cushing's "educated" mules, Barney and Pete who...must have had, if not a superior education, at any rate an excellent training...Barney goes in for the rough gymnastics, and is a perfect mule in his way, "unmuling" the best rider that dare venture upon his back, and chasing him out of the ring. Pete prides himself upon his low comedy talents, and performs in his own fashion as many ludicrous tricks and antics as the most artistic pantomimist upon two legs can boast of. In the course of the performance the master of the ring offers a sovereign to any man or boy who can ride Barney three times round the ring without falling off, he having himself first shown how easy it is. Generally two or three from among the audience try the experiment, but they are soon sent over Barney's head, if they succeed on getting in his back at all...Pete is challenged to jump over a pole higher than himself; but, instead of doing so, he very prudently runs under it...These mules have been taught to play at hide-and-seek, go on errands, and perform any number of comic feats at a more nod or look from their trainer'. From "Illustrated London News", 1858
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Media ID 36377188
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Animal Cruelty Audience Circus Clown Controversial Controversy Cruel Cruelty Cruelty To Animals Funny Mule Mules Ring Ringmaster Alhambra Palace Alhambra Theatre Playhouse
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EDITORS COMMENTS
The Educated Mules of Messrs. Howes and Cushing's Circus at the Alhambra Palace, 1858: A Captivating Display of Equine Agility and Wit This intriguing photograph captures the moment of excitement and wonderment at the Alhambra Palace in London during the performance of Messrs. Howes and Cushing's "educated" mules, Barney and Pete. The mules, renowned for their exceptional training, were a major attraction for audiences in the mid-19th century. Barney, the more robust of the two, was a master of gymnastics and displayed his strength and agility by performing daring stunts that left even the most skilled riders in awe. His playful antics, including bucking and evading riders, added an element of unpredictability to the act, making it all the more thrilling for the spectators. Pete, on the other hand, was a mule with a knack for low comedy. He entertained the crowd with a series of ludicrous tricks and antics, showcasing his unique charm and charisma. Pete's ability to mimic human behavior, from hiding and seeking to going on errands, left the audience in stitches. During the performance, the ringmaster would offer a sovereign to any man or boy who could ride Barney three times around the ring without falling off. The challenge often drew eager volunteers, but they were swiftly sent flying over Barney's head if they managed to mount him at all. Pete, meanwhile, would prudently avoid jumping over a pole higher than himself, much to the amusement of the crowd. These remarkable mules had been taught an impressive repertoire of tricks and feats, further solidifying their reputation as the stars of the show. Their ability to learn and perform complex tasks at a mere nod or look from their trainer was a testament to their intelligence and training. The photograph serves as a captivating reminder of the unique bond between man and animal during the golden age of the circus.
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