Rediscovering Ella Zoyara

The Myth and Reality of a 19th Century Circus Star

Born near Adams County, Illinois in 1839, Samuel Omar Kingsley’s life was anything but ordinary. From a young age Samuel began performing as the eloquent – and sought after – Mademoiselle Ella Zoyara. From St. Louis to New York, London to Sydney, Ella Zoyara delighted thousands across the globe.

How do you separate myth from reality when tracing a 19th century circus star? Join professional genealogist D. Joshua Taylor on the journey to uncover one of history’s lost treasurers as he pieces together the past and rediscovers Ella Zoyara.

Coming Fall 2015