Eveleth Clown Band
The Eveleth Clown Band has been playing at events in Iron Range communities since 1945. Founded by veterans returning from World War II they were originally sponsored by Mesaba Range VFW Post 1172. Although they are no longer sponsored by the post their original bass drum has VFW post painted on it.
I met and first photographed Paul (Tucky) at the Gilbert, Minnesota, July 4th parade in 1986. Here was a striking figure in a Playboy bunny outfit complete with fishnet stockings and six-inch heels. I have been photographing the band ever since. Just like most Rangers, I smile, laugh and sway to familiar tunes such as, “In Heaven There Is No Beer”, or “The Key’s In The Mailbox”. The effect of the band at community parades is both electric and dependable.
Although personnel have changed, the good time spirit persists. The vigor, humor and sense of tradition in the making of these photographs mirror those same characteristics in the Eveleth Clown Band. I’m pleased to be designated as the band’s “official” photographer.
