Sharing and quoting from FB friend Traces of Texas...
Traces of Texas reader Mariann Jones graciously sent in this wowser of a circa 1910 photo and included this wowser of a caption. Says Mariann:
"I wanted to share some information and a photo about a very interesting relative of mine, William H. “Billie” McMillan.
Billie lived from 1859-1926 mostly in Leon County, Texas. He was a traveling show/carnival/circus performer around Texas, and he was a one-man-band as well as a ventriloquist. It's said that he could play up to 7 instruments simultaneously! His parents were Neil McMillan Jr. (son of Neill McMillan Sr. and Agatha Ford McMillan) and Mary J. Finlay McMillan. Billie is my 1st cousin 3x removed.
An interesting fact about Billie: He was an albino! Note his long blond hair, mustache and eyebrows. It's hard to tell the color of his eyes, but typically albinos have light eyes as well.
Regarding this photo, taken circa 1910, it came with this caption: "Elderly American musician “Professor” W. H. McMillan, a one-man band, sits with his bow and fiddle at the ready next to his drum and cymbal kit in front of a circus tent in Oakwood, Texas, circa 1910." The term “Professor” is apparently a common term in the circus world and refers to someone who has been with the circus for some time and is now passing his experience on to others.
Billie had at least two children. One daughter was named Belva A. McMillan Mayor, and she settled in Oregon when she married. They had 3 children: Belva June, Edwin O. Jr. and Ela Belle Mayor, but I know little about them so far. Another daughter apparently traveled with him in the carnivals, but we don't know her first name. It appears that his wife died in childbirth while giving birth to their second daughter. He may have married someone named Lucy Horn a few years later. We have no contact at this time with anyone living who is a direct descendant and would love it if someone sees this and knows something about his family."
Sharing with Sepia Saturday: another unsmiling person seated.
...Billie looks like my kind of guy.
ReplyDeleteA real character!
DeleteBillie sounds like a fun person, great post. Take care, have a happy weekend.
ReplyDeleteAn interesting man.
DeleteWhat an arresting photo and all of that commentary too.
ReplyDeleteTraces of Texas is a great source for those of us who have the Lone Star State in our blood (I being born in Dallas.)
DeleteWhat a life!
ReplyDeletePretty unique!
DeleteBillie looks like Teddy Roosevelt. There are Horns in my family tree--I'll have a look for a Lucy.
ReplyDeleteAh ha, perhaps you can contact them. Yes, I noticed the TR resemblance.
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