African Americans Pioneers Artists Business Characters Cultural Figures Inventors Politicians Scientists Sports Women Writers

Emmett Kelly (1898)close

Emmett Kelly was born in Sedan, Kansas and went on to become one of the best known clowns in the United States. In the 1930s, he developed the character of "Weary Willie" with his woeful expression and tattered clown outfit. He worked with various circuses until he gained a place with the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus in 1942. One of his best known skits was to try and "sweep away" the circus spotlight.

Click on any of the names below to find out more...

Looking for a famous American?

This page presents short biographies of more than 200 famous Americans drawn from our unit, "The 50 States." These personalities are arranged by theme.

Just click a theme at the top of the page to view a selection list for that theme.