John Sherman came to California from his native Illinois in 1860 with his parents and 9 siblings, all surviving the migration. The family located in Contra Costa County. It was about 11 years prior to his death that he began training horses, Barney, Tommy and Jack being some of his first students. Later John had some issues with his eyes so serious that he was concerned he might lose his sight. At the time he decided to enter into a risky business venture, exhibiting his trick horses. John had sold Jack to Mr. Potwin (his sisters husband's family), but John bought him back. All three trick horses were well trained to do exactly as they were told but John decided to make a clown horse out of Jack. Jack was retrained to do exactly opposite of what John commanded him to do. All this done with secret signs and not a whip.
Twice the horses were sold and twice they were bought back by John because they would not obey anyone but John.
14 Apr 1876 Oakland Tribune
"John Sherman has a couple of trained colts. Yesterday he had one of them, a soorrell, four years old, going through a series of performances near the Eagle Hotel. It would lie down at his command, fetch his hat when bid, scrape the ground, bow and do similar tricks with the case of a dog. We understand the two, when together, perform most amazingly."
1880
The Wise Animals-New Season
"In response to a very general desire, the Sherman Educated Horses, Barney, Tommy and Jack The Clown will be exhibited here for a few evenings more, beginning this evening at the tent on K Street, between Eights and Ninth. As there are 117 tricks these horses do, Mr. Sherman is enabled to introduce something new every evening. Still, those who have seen Tommy "walk the plank", or Barney waltz, or Jack throw his rider, Tommy and Barney go to bed or Barney turn himself into a hat rack will hardly be content to have those feats omitted. The attendance at the Saturday matinee was excellent, and a more thoroughly satisfied audience sat beneath a canvas. The exhibition is entertainment in the highest sense that can be imagined of any exhibition of intelligence by dumb brutes."
Los Angeles Herald 26 Aug 1881
It has long been a standing objection to circus performances that they presented nothing new, and that to see one was to see them all. It has remained for a California farmer, Mr. Sherman, to produce a circus wholly original, and which, It is probably not too much to say, bas not its equal in arenic exhibitions anywhere in interest and wonder to the spectator. In fact, those who attended Mr. Sherman's exhibition of "educated horses and family circus" last evening, were not only interested and delighted with all they saw, hut they were more than surprised, they were amazed at the marvelous performances of his educated horses. When it is understood that these wonderful animals perform one hundred and forty-nine different feats without bridle, check or whip-simply by word of command—it will be evident that we cannot specifically describe them, but suffice it to say that all of them are almost incredible in their character, and speak volumes, not only for the native intelligence of these horses, but for the skill and perseverance or their trainer. All of our readers should see them without fall. They are all California raised animals and of large size. The tumbling, rope-walking and trapeze acts were all first class, and included many startling novelties, while the hurdle riding by Miss Cross, a California girl, was the best we have ever seen. It was far more difficult and dangerous than any standing-up gyratious In circus tights on horseback, where the rider is balanced and supported by a tight rein. The apparent design to give a show both captivating and original is au immense success, and the verdict of all who attended Sherman's circus last, evening, so far as we heard them express themselves, was that It is the best tent show that ever came to Los Angeles.
Mountain Democrat Placerville, CA 3 Jun 1882
(Advertisement)
Sherman's Circus and Wonderful Educated Horses
"Coming- Sherman's Circus, embracing a stud of the best trained horses in the world, and a number of first class performances, will exhibit in Placerville next Thursday and Friday June 8th and 9th."
Los Angeles Herald 25 Apr 1883
Railroad News
"The Sherman Circus Train arrived yesterday afternoon at 1:15 o'clock."
In Concord, March 21, 1886, at his residence, John Sherman, beloved husband of Minnie Sherman, a native of Hainesville, IL, aged 43 years, 10 months, 10 days.
His suffering ended with the day,
Yet lived he at the close,
And breathed the long, long day away
In statue like repose.
But when the sun, in all its state
Illumed the eastern skies
He passed through glory's morning gate
And walked in Paradise.
Contra Costa Gazette 1886
Death Of John Sherman
"It is our sad duty to chronicle in these columns, the demise of one of our most estimable citizens, whose cheerful face and plesent manners and sincere friendship was widely enjoyed. John Sherman, whose death occured Sunday evening, 21st inst., was born in Hainseville, Illinois, May 11, 1842, and, with his parents and their family, came to Ygnacio Valley, of this county in 1860 - several years before our town of Concord was laid out- of which a mother, five sisters and two brothers survive him, besides a beloved wife and affectionate son.
Wherever his talents laid within, he excelled. From early boyhood he was distinguished for his love and kindness to dumb animals, always petting and teaching them some new trick or playful manuvere. Enterprising disposition above the average, he became noted as the most skillful horse trainer on the Pacific Coast. His horses Tom, Barney and Jack, became famous and thousands of people learned to watch for John Sherman wherever he pitched his tent with his faithful animals. For over a year his ill health detained him from his work. His case was of that complex nature, as to induce the best medical consultation, which did not defer from the treatment he was receiving from Dr. E. Bragdon. It was his respect that, in the event of death, in the interest of science and the good that might follow, an inquest should be held. Dr. Bragdon assisted by Drs. Leller and Carothers, made the examination, and discovered - as it was feared - that death was caused by an aneurism of the aorta, incurable in its advanced periodand almost so if treated in its early stage. It is remembered that orior to his sickness, while exhibiting his horses in Oregon, one of them misunderstanding his order to prance backward, pranced forward, and before he could step aside, received the uplifted feet of the horse on his breast, which knocked him senseless. From that time on his general health became troublesome, and his eyes affected, and the blow, though slightly painful at first, was neglected, owing to his absence from home. An affectionate husband, indulgent father, considerate friend, loving son, and estimable brother, he has gone to his rest with the knowledge that he was beloved in the home circle that his memory will forever bless.
After receiving the rites of the Christian Church and an impressive prayer by Elder J. D. Wilmot, at the residence of the deceased, the remains were borne to their final resting place by Pascheco Lodge, No 117, I.O.O.F. of which deceased was an honored member. The trained horses were in the funeral cortege, and with their bent heads seemed to understand they were conducting the remains of their master to the grave. Over one hundred carriages were in line, and the ceremonies at Pacheco Cemetery, under the auspices of the I.O.O.F affecting. The floral tributes were chaste and beautiful. The heartfelt sympathy of the community is extended to the bereaved widow and only child."
At John's request his favorite trick horses Barney and Tommy were in the funeral procession, being led in front of the hearse, Tommy by Joe Galindo and Barney by Robert Hunt. John's ring whip was buried with him.
An impressive incident occurred during the ceremony at the grave. At the commencement of the prayer, Barney was observed by those near him to lower his head, and he kept it in that position until the prayer was concluded. It was accidental some would say, but to many it seemed as if the horse recognized the solemnity of the occasion and knew that his master was being laid away forever.
Barney, Tommy and Jack, the three renowned trick horses trained and owned by the late John Sherman, of Concord, were sold Tuesday to Mr. F. Frost, a circus man, who we understand has an outfit at present located at Fresno. Two hundred dollars were paid to bind the bargain and the horses with their trappings delivered to the D. J. Bennett stables Thursday. Mr. Frost, who had agreed to take them on that day, telegraphed that he could not come up, but would be here the following day. Mr. George Sherman, John's brother, will accompany the horses and work them.
The Tomb
"In Concord, March 11, 1886, at his residence, John Sherman, beloved husband of Minnie Sherman, a native of Hainesville, IL, aged 43 years, 10 months and 10 days.
His suffering ended with this day;
Yet lived he at its close,
And breathed the long, long, long day away
In statue-like repose.
But when the sun, in all its state,
Illumed the eastern skies,
He passed through glory's morning gate,
And he walked in Paradise!"
Twice the horses were sold and twice they were bought back by John because they would not obey anyone but John.
14 Apr 1876 Oakland Tribune
"John Sherman has a couple of trained colts. Yesterday he had one of them, a soorrell, four years old, going through a series of performances near the Eagle Hotel. It would lie down at his command, fetch his hat when bid, scrape the ground, bow and do similar tricks with the case of a dog. We understand the two, when together, perform most amazingly."
1880
The Wise Animals-New Season
"In response to a very general desire, the Sherman Educated Horses, Barney, Tommy and Jack The Clown will be exhibited here for a few evenings more, beginning this evening at the tent on K Street, between Eights and Ninth. As there are 117 tricks these horses do, Mr. Sherman is enabled to introduce something new every evening. Still, those who have seen Tommy "walk the plank", or Barney waltz, or Jack throw his rider, Tommy and Barney go to bed or Barney turn himself into a hat rack will hardly be content to have those feats omitted. The attendance at the Saturday matinee was excellent, and a more thoroughly satisfied audience sat beneath a canvas. The exhibition is entertainment in the highest sense that can be imagined of any exhibition of intelligence by dumb brutes."
Los Angeles Herald 26 Aug 1881
It has long been a standing objection to circus performances that they presented nothing new, and that to see one was to see them all. It has remained for a California farmer, Mr. Sherman, to produce a circus wholly original, and which, It is probably not too much to say, bas not its equal in arenic exhibitions anywhere in interest and wonder to the spectator. In fact, those who attended Mr. Sherman's exhibition of "educated horses and family circus" last evening, were not only interested and delighted with all they saw, hut they were more than surprised, they were amazed at the marvelous performances of his educated horses. When it is understood that these wonderful animals perform one hundred and forty-nine different feats without bridle, check or whip-simply by word of command—it will be evident that we cannot specifically describe them, but suffice it to say that all of them are almost incredible in their character, and speak volumes, not only for the native intelligence of these horses, but for the skill and perseverance or their trainer. All of our readers should see them without fall. They are all California raised animals and of large size. The tumbling, rope-walking and trapeze acts were all first class, and included many startling novelties, while the hurdle riding by Miss Cross, a California girl, was the best we have ever seen. It was far more difficult and dangerous than any standing-up gyratious In circus tights on horseback, where the rider is balanced and supported by a tight rein. The apparent design to give a show both captivating and original is au immense success, and the verdict of all who attended Sherman's circus last, evening, so far as we heard them express themselves, was that It is the best tent show that ever came to Los Angeles.
Mountain Democrat Placerville, CA 3 Jun 1882
(Advertisement)
Sherman's Circus and Wonderful Educated Horses
"Coming- Sherman's Circus, embracing a stud of the best trained horses in the world, and a number of first class performances, will exhibit in Placerville next Thursday and Friday June 8th and 9th."
Los Angeles Herald 25 Apr 1883
Railroad News
"The Sherman Circus Train arrived yesterday afternoon at 1:15 o'clock."
In Concord, March 21, 1886, at his residence, John Sherman, beloved husband of Minnie Sherman, a native of Hainesville, IL, aged 43 years, 10 months, 10 days.
His suffering ended with the day,
Yet lived he at the close,
And breathed the long, long day away
In statue like repose.
But when the sun, in all its state
Illumed the eastern skies
He passed through glory's morning gate
And walked in Paradise.
Contra Costa Gazette 1886
Death Of John Sherman
"It is our sad duty to chronicle in these columns, the demise of one of our most estimable citizens, whose cheerful face and plesent manners and sincere friendship was widely enjoyed. John Sherman, whose death occured Sunday evening, 21st inst., was born in Hainseville, Illinois, May 11, 1842, and, with his parents and their family, came to Ygnacio Valley, of this county in 1860 - several years before our town of Concord was laid out- of which a mother, five sisters and two brothers survive him, besides a beloved wife and affectionate son.
Wherever his talents laid within, he excelled. From early boyhood he was distinguished for his love and kindness to dumb animals, always petting and teaching them some new trick or playful manuvere. Enterprising disposition above the average, he became noted as the most skillful horse trainer on the Pacific Coast. His horses Tom, Barney and Jack, became famous and thousands of people learned to watch for John Sherman wherever he pitched his tent with his faithful animals. For over a year his ill health detained him from his work. His case was of that complex nature, as to induce the best medical consultation, which did not defer from the treatment he was receiving from Dr. E. Bragdon. It was his respect that, in the event of death, in the interest of science and the good that might follow, an inquest should be held. Dr. Bragdon assisted by Drs. Leller and Carothers, made the examination, and discovered - as it was feared - that death was caused by an aneurism of the aorta, incurable in its advanced periodand almost so if treated in its early stage. It is remembered that orior to his sickness, while exhibiting his horses in Oregon, one of them misunderstanding his order to prance backward, pranced forward, and before he could step aside, received the uplifted feet of the horse on his breast, which knocked him senseless. From that time on his general health became troublesome, and his eyes affected, and the blow, though slightly painful at first, was neglected, owing to his absence from home. An affectionate husband, indulgent father, considerate friend, loving son, and estimable brother, he has gone to his rest with the knowledge that he was beloved in the home circle that his memory will forever bless.
After receiving the rites of the Christian Church and an impressive prayer by Elder J. D. Wilmot, at the residence of the deceased, the remains were borne to their final resting place by Pascheco Lodge, No 117, I.O.O.F. of which deceased was an honored member. The trained horses were in the funeral cortege, and with their bent heads seemed to understand they were conducting the remains of their master to the grave. Over one hundred carriages were in line, and the ceremonies at Pacheco Cemetery, under the auspices of the I.O.O.F affecting. The floral tributes were chaste and beautiful. The heartfelt sympathy of the community is extended to the bereaved widow and only child."
At John's request his favorite trick horses Barney and Tommy were in the funeral procession, being led in front of the hearse, Tommy by Joe Galindo and Barney by Robert Hunt. John's ring whip was buried with him.
An impressive incident occurred during the ceremony at the grave. At the commencement of the prayer, Barney was observed by those near him to lower his head, and he kept it in that position until the prayer was concluded. It was accidental some would say, but to many it seemed as if the horse recognized the solemnity of the occasion and knew that his master was being laid away forever.
Barney, Tommy and Jack, the three renowned trick horses trained and owned by the late John Sherman, of Concord, were sold Tuesday to Mr. F. Frost, a circus man, who we understand has an outfit at present located at Fresno. Two hundred dollars were paid to bind the bargain and the horses with their trappings delivered to the D. J. Bennett stables Thursday. Mr. Frost, who had agreed to take them on that day, telegraphed that he could not come up, but would be here the following day. Mr. George Sherman, John's brother, will accompany the horses and work them.
The Tomb
"In Concord, March 11, 1886, at his residence, John Sherman, beloved husband of Minnie Sherman, a native of Hainesville, IL, aged 43 years, 10 months and 10 days.
His suffering ended with this day;
Yet lived he at its close,
And breathed the long, long, long day away
In statue-like repose.
But when the sun, in all its state,
Illumed the eastern skies,
He passed through glory's morning gate,
And he walked in Paradise!"
John Sherman came to California from his native Illinois in 1860 with his parents and 9 siblings, all surviving the migration. The family located in Contra Costa County. It was about 11 years prior to his death that he began training horses, Barney, Tommy and Jack being some of his first students. Later John had some issues with his eyes so serious that he was concerned he might lose his sight. At the time he decided to enter into a risky business venture, exhibiting his trick horses. John had sold Jack to Mr. Potwin (his sisters husband's family), but John bought him back. All three trick horses were well trained to do exactly as they were told but John decided to make a clown horse out of Jack. Jack was retrained to do exactly opposite of what John commanded him to do. All this done with secret signs and not a whip.
Twice the horses were sold and twice they were bought back by John because they would not obey anyone but John.
14 Apr 1876 Oakland Tribune
"John Sherman has a couple of trained colts. Yesterday he had one of them, a soorrell, four years old, going through a series of performances near the Eagle Hotel. It would lie down at his command, fetch his hat when bid, scrape the ground, bow and do similar tricks with the case of a dog. We understand the two, when together, perform most amazingly."
1880
The Wise Animals-New Season
"In response to a very general desire, the Sherman Educated Horses, Barney, Tommy and Jack The Clown will be exhibited here for a few evenings more, beginning this evening at the tent on K Street, between Eights and Ninth. As there are 117 tricks these horses do, Mr. Sherman is enabled to introduce something new every evening. Still, those who have seen Tommy "walk the plank", or Barney waltz, or Jack throw his rider, Tommy and Barney go to bed or Barney turn himself into a hat rack will hardly be content to have those feats omitted. The attendance at the Saturday matinee was excellent, and a more thoroughly satisfied audience sat beneath a canvas. The exhibition is entertainment in the highest sense that can be imagined of any exhibition of intelligence by dumb brutes."
Los Angeles Herald 26 Aug 1881
It has long been a standing objection to circus performances that they presented nothing new, and that to see one was to see them all. It has remained for a California farmer, Mr. Sherman, to produce a circus wholly original, and which, It is probably not too much to say, bas not its equal in arenic exhibitions anywhere in interest and wonder to the spectator. In fact, those who attended Mr. Sherman's exhibition of "educated horses and family circus" last evening, were not only interested and delighted with all they saw, hut they were more than surprised, they were amazed at the marvelous performances of his educated horses. When it is understood that these wonderful animals perform one hundred and forty-nine different feats without bridle, check or whip-simply by word of command—it will be evident that we cannot specifically describe them, but suffice it to say that all of them are almost incredible in their character, and speak volumes, not only for the native intelligence of these horses, but for the skill and perseverance or their trainer. All of our readers should see them without fall. They are all California raised animals and of large size. The tumbling, rope-walking and trapeze acts were all first class, and included many startling novelties, while the hurdle riding by Miss Cross, a California girl, was the best we have ever seen. It was far more difficult and dangerous than any standing-up gyratious In circus tights on horseback, where the rider is balanced and supported by a tight rein. The apparent design to give a show both captivating and original is au immense success, and the verdict of all who attended Sherman's circus last, evening, so far as we heard them express themselves, was that It is the best tent show that ever came to Los Angeles.
Mountain Democrat Placerville, CA 3 Jun 1882
(Advertisement)
Sherman's Circus and Wonderful Educated Horses
"Coming- Sherman's Circus, embracing a stud of the best trained horses in the world, and a number of first class performances, will exhibit in Placerville next Thursday and Friday June 8th and 9th."
Los Angeles Herald 25 Apr 1883
Railroad News
"The Sherman Circus Train arrived yesterday afternoon at 1:15 o'clock."
In Concord, March 21, 1886, at his residence, John Sherman, beloved husband of Minnie Sherman, a native of Hainesville, IL, aged 43 years, 10 months, 10 days.
His suffering ended with the day,
Yet lived he at the close,
And breathed the long, long day away
In statue like repose.
But when the sun, in all its state
Illumed the eastern skies
He passed through glory's morning gate
And walked in Paradise.
Contra Costa Gazette 1886
Death Of John Sherman
"It is our sad duty to chronicle in these columns, the demise of one of our most estimable citizens, whose cheerful face and plesent manners and sincere friendship was widely enjoyed. John Sherman, whose death occured Sunday evening, 21st inst., was born in Hainseville, Illinois, May 11, 1842, and, with his parents and their family, came to Ygnacio Valley, of this county in 1860 - several years before our town of Concord was laid out- of which a mother, five sisters and two brothers survive him, besides a beloved wife and affectionate son.
Wherever his talents laid within, he excelled. From early boyhood he was distinguished for his love and kindness to dumb animals, always petting and teaching them some new trick or playful manuvere. Enterprising disposition above the average, he became noted as the most skillful horse trainer on the Pacific Coast. His horses Tom, Barney and Jack, became famous and thousands of people learned to watch for John Sherman wherever he pitched his tent with his faithful animals. For over a year his ill health detained him from his work. His case was of that complex nature, as to induce the best medical consultation, which did not defer from the treatment he was receiving from Dr. E. Bragdon. It was his respect that, in the event of death, in the interest of science and the good that might follow, an inquest should be held. Dr. Bragdon assisted by Drs. Leller and Carothers, made the examination, and discovered - as it was feared - that death was caused by an aneurism of the aorta, incurable in its advanced periodand almost so if treated in its early stage. It is remembered that orior to his sickness, while exhibiting his horses in Oregon, one of them misunderstanding his order to prance backward, pranced forward, and before he could step aside, received the uplifted feet of the horse on his breast, which knocked him senseless. From that time on his general health became troublesome, and his eyes affected, and the blow, though slightly painful at first, was neglected, owing to his absence from home. An affectionate husband, indulgent father, considerate friend, loving son, and estimable brother, he has gone to his rest with the knowledge that he was beloved in the home circle that his memory will forever bless.
After receiving the rites of the Christian Church and an impressive prayer by Elder J. D. Wilmot, at the residence of the deceased, the remains were borne to their final resting place by Pascheco Lodge, No 117, I.O.O.F. of which deceased was an honored member. The trained horses were in the funeral cortege, and with their bent heads seemed to understand they were conducting the remains of their master to the grave. Over one hundred carriages were in line, and the ceremonies at Pacheco Cemetery, under the auspices of the I.O.O.F affecting. The floral tributes were chaste and beautiful. The heartfelt sympathy of the community is extended to the bereaved widow and only child."
At John's request his favorite trick horses Barney and Tommy were in the funeral procession, being led in front of the hearse, Tommy by Joe Galindo and Barney by Robert Hunt. John's ring whip was buried with him.
An impressive incident occurred during the ceremony at the grave. At the commencement of the prayer, Barney was observed by those near him to lower his head, and he kept it in that position until the prayer was concluded. It was accidental some would say, but to many it seemed as if the horse recognized the solemnity of the occasion and knew that his master was being laid away forever.
Barney, Tommy and Jack, the three renowned trick horses trained and owned by the late John Sherman, of Concord, were sold Tuesday to Mr. F. Frost, a circus man, who we understand has an outfit at present located at Fresno. Two hundred dollars were paid to bind the bargain and the horses with their trappings delivered to the D. J. Bennett stables Thursday. Mr. Frost, who had agreed to take them on that day, telegraphed that he could not come up, but would be here the following day. Mr. George Sherman, John's brother, will accompany the horses and work them.
The Tomb
"In Concord, March 11, 1886, at his residence, John Sherman, beloved husband of Minnie Sherman, a native of Hainesville, IL, aged 43 years, 10 months and 10 days.
His suffering ended with this day;
Yet lived he at its close,
And breathed the long, long, long day away
In statue-like repose.
But when the sun, in all its state,
Illumed the eastern skies,
He passed through glory's morning gate,
And he walked in Paradise!"
Twice the horses were sold and twice they were bought back by John because they would not obey anyone but John.
14 Apr 1876 Oakland Tribune
"John Sherman has a couple of trained colts. Yesterday he had one of them, a soorrell, four years old, going through a series of performances near the Eagle Hotel. It would lie down at his command, fetch his hat when bid, scrape the ground, bow and do similar tricks with the case of a dog. We understand the two, when together, perform most amazingly."
1880
The Wise Animals-New Season
"In response to a very general desire, the Sherman Educated Horses, Barney, Tommy and Jack The Clown will be exhibited here for a few evenings more, beginning this evening at the tent on K Street, between Eights and Ninth. As there are 117 tricks these horses do, Mr. Sherman is enabled to introduce something new every evening. Still, those who have seen Tommy "walk the plank", or Barney waltz, or Jack throw his rider, Tommy and Barney go to bed or Barney turn himself into a hat rack will hardly be content to have those feats omitted. The attendance at the Saturday matinee was excellent, and a more thoroughly satisfied audience sat beneath a canvas. The exhibition is entertainment in the highest sense that can be imagined of any exhibition of intelligence by dumb brutes."
Los Angeles Herald 26 Aug 1881
It has long been a standing objection to circus performances that they presented nothing new, and that to see one was to see them all. It has remained for a California farmer, Mr. Sherman, to produce a circus wholly original, and which, It is probably not too much to say, bas not its equal in arenic exhibitions anywhere in interest and wonder to the spectator. In fact, those who attended Mr. Sherman's exhibition of "educated horses and family circus" last evening, were not only interested and delighted with all they saw, hut they were more than surprised, they were amazed at the marvelous performances of his educated horses. When it is understood that these wonderful animals perform one hundred and forty-nine different feats without bridle, check or whip-simply by word of command—it will be evident that we cannot specifically describe them, but suffice it to say that all of them are almost incredible in their character, and speak volumes, not only for the native intelligence of these horses, but for the skill and perseverance or their trainer. All of our readers should see them without fall. They are all California raised animals and of large size. The tumbling, rope-walking and trapeze acts were all first class, and included many startling novelties, while the hurdle riding by Miss Cross, a California girl, was the best we have ever seen. It was far more difficult and dangerous than any standing-up gyratious In circus tights on horseback, where the rider is balanced and supported by a tight rein. The apparent design to give a show both captivating and original is au immense success, and the verdict of all who attended Sherman's circus last, evening, so far as we heard them express themselves, was that It is the best tent show that ever came to Los Angeles.
Mountain Democrat Placerville, CA 3 Jun 1882
(Advertisement)
Sherman's Circus and Wonderful Educated Horses
"Coming- Sherman's Circus, embracing a stud of the best trained horses in the world, and a number of first class performances, will exhibit in Placerville next Thursday and Friday June 8th and 9th."
Los Angeles Herald 25 Apr 1883
Railroad News
"The Sherman Circus Train arrived yesterday afternoon at 1:15 o'clock."
In Concord, March 21, 1886, at his residence, John Sherman, beloved husband of Minnie Sherman, a native of Hainesville, IL, aged 43 years, 10 months, 10 days.
His suffering ended with the day,
Yet lived he at the close,
And breathed the long, long day away
In statue like repose.
But when the sun, in all its state
Illumed the eastern skies
He passed through glory's morning gate
And walked in Paradise.
Contra Costa Gazette 1886
Death Of John Sherman
"It is our sad duty to chronicle in these columns, the demise of one of our most estimable citizens, whose cheerful face and plesent manners and sincere friendship was widely enjoyed. John Sherman, whose death occured Sunday evening, 21st inst., was born in Hainseville, Illinois, May 11, 1842, and, with his parents and their family, came to Ygnacio Valley, of this county in 1860 - several years before our town of Concord was laid out- of which a mother, five sisters and two brothers survive him, besides a beloved wife and affectionate son.
Wherever his talents laid within, he excelled. From early boyhood he was distinguished for his love and kindness to dumb animals, always petting and teaching them some new trick or playful manuvere. Enterprising disposition above the average, he became noted as the most skillful horse trainer on the Pacific Coast. His horses Tom, Barney and Jack, became famous and thousands of people learned to watch for John Sherman wherever he pitched his tent with his faithful animals. For over a year his ill health detained him from his work. His case was of that complex nature, as to induce the best medical consultation, which did not defer from the treatment he was receiving from Dr. E. Bragdon. It was his respect that, in the event of death, in the interest of science and the good that might follow, an inquest should be held. Dr. Bragdon assisted by Drs. Leller and Carothers, made the examination, and discovered - as it was feared - that death was caused by an aneurism of the aorta, incurable in its advanced periodand almost so if treated in its early stage. It is remembered that orior to his sickness, while exhibiting his horses in Oregon, one of them misunderstanding his order to prance backward, pranced forward, and before he could step aside, received the uplifted feet of the horse on his breast, which knocked him senseless. From that time on his general health became troublesome, and his eyes affected, and the blow, though slightly painful at first, was neglected, owing to his absence from home. An affectionate husband, indulgent father, considerate friend, loving son, and estimable brother, he has gone to his rest with the knowledge that he was beloved in the home circle that his memory will forever bless.
After receiving the rites of the Christian Church and an impressive prayer by Elder J. D. Wilmot, at the residence of the deceased, the remains were borne to their final resting place by Pascheco Lodge, No 117, I.O.O.F. of which deceased was an honored member. The trained horses were in the funeral cortege, and with their bent heads seemed to understand they were conducting the remains of their master to the grave. Over one hundred carriages were in line, and the ceremonies at Pacheco Cemetery, under the auspices of the I.O.O.F affecting. The floral tributes were chaste and beautiful. The heartfelt sympathy of the community is extended to the bereaved widow and only child."
At John's request his favorite trick horses Barney and Tommy were in the funeral procession, being led in front of the hearse, Tommy by Joe Galindo and Barney by Robert Hunt. John's ring whip was buried with him.
An impressive incident occurred during the ceremony at the grave. At the commencement of the prayer, Barney was observed by those near him to lower his head, and he kept it in that position until the prayer was concluded. It was accidental some would say, but to many it seemed as if the horse recognized the solemnity of the occasion and knew that his master was being laid away forever.
Barney, Tommy and Jack, the three renowned trick horses trained and owned by the late John Sherman, of Concord, were sold Tuesday to Mr. F. Frost, a circus man, who we understand has an outfit at present located at Fresno. Two hundred dollars were paid to bind the bargain and the horses with their trappings delivered to the D. J. Bennett stables Thursday. Mr. Frost, who had agreed to take them on that day, telegraphed that he could not come up, but would be here the following day. Mr. George Sherman, John's brother, will accompany the horses and work them.
The Tomb
"In Concord, March 11, 1886, at his residence, John Sherman, beloved husband of Minnie Sherman, a native of Hainesville, IL, aged 43 years, 10 months and 10 days.
His suffering ended with this day;
Yet lived he at its close,
And breathed the long, long, long day away
In statue-like repose.
But when the sun, in all its state,
Illumed the eastern skies,
He passed through glory's morning gate,
And he walked in Paradise!"
Inscription
JOHN SHERMAN
DIED
MAR. 21, 1886.
AGED
43 YRS. 9 MOS.
& 10 DAYS.
Family Members
Advertisement
Explore more
Sponsored by Ancestry
Advertisement
