The National Fairground Archive at the University of Sheffield has uncovered the little known history of the Sheffield Jungle - a menagerie of exotic animals and unusual circus acts.
Frank C Bostock had put on shows in America, Europe and elsewhere in Britain before bringing the Jungle to Sheffield in November 1910.
The Jungle was based on Hawley Street which had been cleared of its slums. It is now the site of HSBC's administrative offices.
People flocked to see the show over the seven months it spent in Sheffield. In those days few were concerned about animal welfare in circuses. This new born chimp was not expected to survive in the cold conditions.
Bostock came up with stories about the history of his animals to promote the show, including this one about an army mascot drummed out of the regiment.
A hung parliament in January 1910 meant another general election was called for December. Bostock allowed politicians to campaign in the lion's cage and then had the results displayed there.
The Jungle became part of the local community, donating to charities like the Slum Children's Orphan Fund and providing presents for local people at Christmas.
After seven months in Sheffield the show moved on, transported by horse-drawn vans. You can read more about The Jungle at www.nfa.dept.shef.ac.uk
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