Big Top Builder
This is an experimental program for creating round and round oblong canvas [circus] tents. The "Big Top" is the colloquialism for a round oblong (geometric name, Stadium) tent. The goal for this project was to learn more about how canvas tent makers made these curious structures. This is a work-in-progress.
Tent Image References (circa 1920s)
Exterior View
Interior View
These tents were used in the Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Combined Shows.
Both images credit: The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Tibbals Circus Collection (link)
Item numbers: ht0000044 and ht0001923
Constraints
More details coming soon.
Stadium Shape
The Stadium geometry is a rectangle with two semi-circles on opposite ends.
Sources
- Chandler, Ernest. Awnings and Tents. 1st ed. Ernest Chandler, 1914.
- Oral History transcripts from conversations with the previous owner of the United States Tent and Awning Co., and Tent Maker, Ray Hautamaki. Conversations: February 5th, 7th, and 22nd, 2023.
- The Hobson Journals. The John and Mable Ringling Museum of Art, Tibbals Circus Collection.
- United States Tent and Awning Co Catalogue: Tents and Canvas Products, Bleachers, Seats, Covers. 1929.