Sarasota in Sarasota County, Florida — The American South (South Atlantic)

Willie Edelston

Circus Ring of Fame

Photographed By Brandon D Cross

1. Willie Edelston Marker

Inscription. As the 1941 National YMCA Roman Kings Champion, Willie Edelston realized his love for performing. Following his service in the Army Air Corps he decided to follow his heart and in 1948 became a trapeze artist with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus. Continuing this discipline, as well as sway pole, on numerous shows into 1959. Upon retiring from big top life, Willie entered the U.S. Postal Service. The circus was still his first love and for over fifty years, he volunteered at Sarasota’s Sailor Circus, coaching thousands of students in flying trapeze, rings, tumbling and hand-balancing. Through his beloved demeanor and dedicated mentoring, he was able to inspire and encourage the young artists to excel at their chosen skills. His was an endearing circus career.
Gary, Vicky, Tom & Eric Edelston

Erected 2022 by Circus Ring of Fame Foundation.

Topics. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Entertainment • Industry & Commerce. A significant historical year for this entry is 1948.

Location. 27° 19.085′ N, 82° 34.649′ W. Marker is in Sarasota, Florida, in Sarasota County. Marker is at the intersection of St Armands Circle and John Ringling Boulevard, on the left when traveling south on St Armands

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Circle. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 1 St Armands Cir, Sarasota FL 34236, United States of America. Touch for directions.

Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Galaxy Girl Tina Winn (here, next to this marker); George Carden (here, next to this marker); Richter and Casselly Families (here, next to this marker); The Advance Professionals (here, next to this marker); Nik Wallenda (here, next to this marker); Peggy Williams (here, next to this marker); Los Quiros (here, next to this marker); Reverend Father George G. Hogan (a few steps from this marker). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Sarasota.

More about this marker. The "Circus Ring Of Fame" recognizes those persons who made a significant contribution to the art and culture of the circus. With dozens of inductees from around the world. The Ring Of Fame began in 1986 as a way to honor world famous circus performers and the rich circus heritage of the Sarasota, Florida area.

Also see . . .
1. Recollections of a life lived in the circus. (Submitted on April 7, 2024, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)
2. Circus Ring of Fame. (Submitted on April 7, 2024, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida.)

Willie Edelston Marker (right) image. Click for full size.

Photographed By Brandon D Cross

2. Willie Edelston Marker (right)

Credits. This page was last revised on April 11, 2024. It was originally submitted on April 7, 2024, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. This page has been viewed 47 times since then. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on April 7, 2024, by Brandon D Cross of Flagler Beach, Florida. • Bernard Fisher was the editor who published this page.