This State Journal editorial ran on July 29, 1875: Great crowds thronged to the monster tent of Howe’s Circus and Menagerie yesterday afternoon and evening. Such expressions as “a very superior show” and “the best that ever visited Madison” were frequently made by those who witnessed the performances, which came unusually near “filling the bill” of advertisements. A large collection of animals, some of which are rarely seen, seemed in excellent condition.