The Franzen Bros Circus was founded by former high school teacher Wayne Franzen, the show opened on June 24, 1974 in Rosholt, Wisconsin.
Wayne Frazen was not only the show's owner, he also was the feature attraction. Franzen presented the circus' animal acts, including performing in a caged arena with Bengal tigers.
On May 7, 1997, while performing his tiger act in Carrollton, PA., a 6 year old male tiger suddenly attacked Franzen. Wayne Franzen's son Brian, entered the cage and desperately tried to get the tiger off of his father, however Brian's best efforts failed and Wayne died from his injuries.
Although it can never be known with certainty why the animal attacked, it is believed that it was due to a new glittering costume Wayne was wearing the night of the performance.
Brian Franzen kept the show on the road for months after the lost of Wayne, but in late 1997 the circus closed.
Brian has carried on his father's tradition and continues to perform animal acts today.
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