Edward HARTLEY - Family Rumor - Clown Entertainer in England?? (1840-1872)

[rbell35]

Seeing any information to support the validity of a family rumour that my ancestor Edward HARTLEY left a career as a chemist in London (Lambeth/Southwark areas) to become an entertainer as a Clown performer.

Edward born in Gosport, Hampshire in 1805 & lived in Portsea as a chemist with his wife Susanna Fanny & family unil around 1842-43, after which he lived in London in the Lambeth/Southwark area. I believe he worked there as a chemist for some years after which he may have turned to show business as a clown performer. I would love to see evidence of this story if anything survives of this second career/occupation. Any help is much appreciated.

Thanks,
Rob

[Annette7]

Census up to 1861 shows him as a chemist.    In 1871 - the year before he died - shown as retired chemist.

Annette

[rbell35]

Thanks Annette looks like if he was a clown it may have been a part time/sessional occupation?? Is there a website of clown or even circus performers I could check??
Cheers, Rob

[Mowsehowse]

There is a Clowns museum in London, where you might get info?

"The London Clowns’ Gallery – Museum, archive and reference library are housed at Holy Trinity Church and is open on the first Friday of the month –12 to 5pm.or by appointment. For more information about the Museums contact:     Museum Director, Mattie Faint on 020 7608 0312 "

[rbell35]

Thanks mowsehouse..will check out chrs Rob