Lot 204

Ventriloquist Charles Roark and Tattooed Lady Betty Broadbent, Photo and Paper Archive [Circus - Punch and Judy - Magician] (America, 1940-1980)

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Ventriloquist Charles Roark and Tattooed Lady Betty Broadbent, Photo and Paper Archive [Circus - Punch and Judy - Magician] (America, 1940-1980)

Estimate: $250 - $450

Current Bid: $125

(2 Bids)

by Bray & Co. Auctions
July 26, 2026 10:00 AM EDT
Live Auction
33 Jewell Court
Portsmouth, NH, US 03801

Ventriloquist Charles Roark and Tattooed Lady Betty Broadbent, Photo and Paper Archive [Circus - Punch and Judy - Magician]
(America, 1940-1980)
Group of photographs and personal ephemera belonging to circus ventriloquist Charles Roark (1907-1963), including a photograph of Roark with his first wife, tattooed lady Betty Broadbent (1909-1983); two postcards written by Charles and Betty, 1940–1941; approximately 29 additional photographs and photo postcards depicting Roark throughout his career in show business, including a 1984 snapshot of him with tattooed lady Lorett Fulkerson; newspaper clippings; two business cards; and related personal material. Together with Roark's Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey elephant tie pin.

Charles Roark was a popular ventriloquist, magician, and sideshow performer active during the mid-twentieth century. His first wife, Betty Broadbent, remains among the most celebrated tattooed women in American history, appearing with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey and at numerous fairs, carnivals, and sideshows throughout her long career. The present group offers a personal glimpse into the interconnected world of traveling entertainers during the golden age of the American circus and sideshow.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000