Peru, Indiana

This barn, built in 1945, is called the Terrell Jacobs Circus Barn. Peru is a town about 30 minutes south of me and, while famous for several things, prides itself on it's nickname, "Circus City".  The International Circus Hall of Fame is located here and the area was the winter home to many circuses through the years.

According to  Preservation magazine, Terrell Jacobs, one of the most recognized animal trainers in circus history, worked for 16 different circuses during his 40-year career. After headlining with Ringling Bros., Jacobs purchased this property and built a house and two barns. with the intent of wintering the animals here. The lion house is still adorned with hand-painted decorations by Art Johns, and old-time circus-wagon painter. The structures on this property were granted Historic Landmarks status in 2012 but, sadly, no money comes with the designation and funds in this area are scarce for things like preserving old circus monuments. The roof of this one caved in last summer. Alas, I'm afraid they are doomed.