Strates Shows

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Strates Shows is America's only railroad carnival. It travels the United States during a seven-month season, transporting personnel and equipment with 61 rail cars and 34 trucks. Traveling with the show are some 400 employees and families who operate the many rides, games and concessions.

[edit] History

Strates Shows has a history dating back to 1923 when James E. Strates, a Greek immigrant, began his first show. Mr.Strates came to America in 1909 and, like many immigrants, worked at a number of odd jobs. In 1919, he joined a carnival athletic show as a wrestler taking on all challengers. In 1923, David Strates acquired Southern Tier Shows and in 1932 changed its name to James E. Strates Shows, after his son. Mr. Strates continued to build and manage the carnival until his death in 1959. At that time his son, E. James Strates, assumed responsibility for the carnival and still operates it today. The crew that is on the train can unload all of the equipment cars totaling more than a miles worth in about 18 hours.

One of the oldest stops on the circuit is America's Fair, more commonly called the Erie County Fair in Hamburg, NY, which started its relationship with the Strates in 1924.