History of the Jamestown Clowns
One April evening the Jamestown Shrine Club was meeting when two characters dropped in. It was Burr Cline and Bill Spotts, made up as Clowns, an idea was born and several Nobles pledged to form a Clown unit for the El Zagal Temple. A charter was given by El Zagal Temple and the Jamestown Clown unit was bonded together to give Jamestown representation in the El Zagal Temple uniformed bodies, add color to the Shrine Ceremonials and parades. But most of all to promote true benevolence and charitable purposes, especially to the Shrine Hospitals for Crippled Children, and good will for all.
The first official meeting was held June 14, 1948 with 16 Shriners present. Burr Cline was elected President, Bill Spotts as secretary and Louis McLaflin as treasurer.
Each Clown was responsible for his own make-up and props for the character he was to portray. The Clowns are supported in each parade by a fire truck with teeter-toter and swings. The fire truck is surrounded by several motorized vehicles adding merriment to parade processions. In 2000 the Clowns purchased an 18 wheeler to transport Clowns and vehicles to parades and shrine functions.
In 1958 the Clowns started the Clown for a Night Party as a way to raise money. The first party being held at the Memorial building with 150 guests. After a few years they moved to the Elks Club with approximately 300 guests. In 1999 they started to cater to business Christmas parties and moved to the Civic Center where they can entertain up to 944 guests.
The Clowns traveled to Fargo to help with the Shrine Circus. In 1977 the Shrine Circus was brought to Jamestown and supported by all area Shriners.
The Clowns have had many honors in their years of service. But none can compare to the thrill and enjoyment received when one sees the smile and feels the loving hand clasp of a handicapped child, or when a visit is made to a Shrine Hospital or other hospitals for the handicapped. This gratification is beyond belief, and no one can experience this warm and grand feeling but a Clown in makeup. These are the heartfelt joys of being a Clown.
No man stands so straight as when he stoops to help a handicapped child. So as we continue on our journey as Clowns, we not only want to help them walk, but walk with a smile.
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This site was created and is maintained by Mark J. Boatman. Last site update was on Nov. 29, 2004.