Chautauqua Movement's Mount Horeb Connection
Many are familiar with Big Top Chautauqua near Bayfield, Wisconsin. During the summer months, under an enormous tent, live theatre and musical events engage thousands of tourists to the area.
It should be noted that the "Big Top" carries on a tradition of entertainment which began in 1874 in Chautauqua New York. There, an assembly to train Sunday School teachers was opened to the public. The scope of the education was increased and soon included lectures, classes and music. The idea of a camp where one could be exposed to education and entertainment caught on nationally and by 1900 at least 200 chautauqua pavilions had been established.
In 1917, the Travers - Wick Chautauqua troupe brought their talents to the sleepy village of Mount Horeb. A large tent was erected in Boek's Park and from July 31 - August 6 residents were treated to a host of lectures and concerts. Such headliners as the "Spica's Royal Venetian Band", "The Stockholm Concert Company", "the Metropolitan Sextet", and a theatre presentation of the "The Bohemian Girl" must have thrilled audience members.
In 1917 the spector of world war loomed as well, which prompted the troupe's promoters to print in their program: "Keep cool; keep conditions as nearly normal as possible. Go right along with your regular routine of life. Attend your church; take part in your social activities; purchase your chautauqua season ticket and be present at each program. LEAD YOUR USUAL AND ORDINARY LIFE. That is what both England and France have asked of their citizens. No greater calamity could befall the Nation now than for us to become unduly frightened, and thus demoralize business and social conditions."
In 1918 the Chautauqua returned to Mt. Horeb as did the theme of patriotism. President Wilson is quoted on the cover of the program: "The work that the Chautauqua is doing has not lost importance because of war, but rather has gained new opportunities for service."
Editors note: The Bayfield Big Top Chautauqua has historically based theatre as well as wonderful musical events throughout the summer. If in the area, I recommend the Big Top for an evening's destination. Information can be found at: http://www.bigtop.org/