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[–] someguyfromcanada [S] 0 points 3 points (+3|-0) ago 

Emmett Kelly (1898 – 1979) was an American circus performer who created the memorable clown figure "Weary Willie", based on the hobos of the Depression era. From 1942–1956 Kelly performed with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, where he was a major attraction.

The Hartford Circus Fire occurred on July 6, 1944, in Hartford, Connecticut, was one of the worst fire disasters in the history of the United States. The fire occurred during an afternoon performance of the Circus that was attended by 6,000 to 8,000 people. 167 people died and more than 700 were injured.

The fire began as a small flame while the Great Wallendas were performing. The Circus bandleader was said to have been the first to spot the flames, and immediately directed the band to play "The Stars and Stripes Forever", the tune that traditionally signaled distress to all circus personnel. The Ringmaster urged the audience not to panic and to leave in an orderly fashion, but the power failed and he could not be heard.

Because of the paraffin wax waterproofing of the tent, the flames spread rapidly. Many people were badly burned by the melting paraffin which rained down from the roof. The fiery tent collapsed trapping hundreds of spectators beneath it. The cause of the fire remains unproven.