Please note that the content of this book primarily consists of articles available from Wikipedia or other free sources online. The Royal Hanneford Circus is an American-based touring family circus. With origins dating back to 1690, it has been called the oldest circus in the world. The family first performed as a traveling troupe in 1807. In 1903, the family began its own circus as the Hanneford Royal Canadian Circus and toured the British Isles. The family performed separately throughout much of the early 20th century in the United States. The modern Royal Hanneford Circus was formed in 1965, when Tommy Hanneford began producing shows featuring the family. The family's first major production was in September 1966 in Saginaw, Michigan. Tommy's brother George, Jr. was featured in a bareback riding act. The performance is considered the first of the Royal Hanneford Circus.