WAYNE, Nebraska (KCAU) – Wayne was home to a traveling amusement company, a little-known part of Wayne’s early history.
The Walter Savidge Amusement Company was based in Wayne from 1906 to 1941. A 20-car Pullman train transported what was essentially a circus to performances primarily throughout Nebraska and South Dakota.
In its heyday, it had its own power plant. It employed more than 100 people and the large tent could accommodate 1,600 people. There were acrobats, sideshows, food stalls and other variety acts.
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“They traveled all over the place, not just here in Wayne. In all the surrounding towns and even out of state. But they had their winter quarters here and there were buildings downtown where they housed the animals,” said Loreta Tompkins.
“This was the entertainment company in its heyday. You can see the train there and the number of people that worked in the entertainment company at that time,” said Steve Gross.
The flying Baldwins were the main characters and were paid $300 a week. They included the fat lady and a miniature man, as well as Ferris wheels “that you could touch the clouds with.”
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