African-descent animal trainers were far from rare in late 19th century Britain (see page 084 of this site). Some had exotic-sounding show names and were said to be from Africa when they were born in the U.S.A. or the Caribbean. As part of the world of entertainment in fairs and circuses they were seen by many thousands, … Continue reading 140 : ‘Eph’ Thompson the elephant trainer, 1859-1909