Legends of the Broadsword: Stage Gladiators in America

The customs of the stage gladiators and wandering prize-fighters actually made their way to America, as evidenced by this advertisement from the Essex Register of Massachusetts:

General Fencing Exhibition. MESSRS. TROMELLE & GIRARD, Fencing-Masters of the Military School of Col. de la Croix, respectfully inform the Gentlemen of Salem and its vicinity that they propose a FENCING EXHIBITION, at which several amateurs will be present, and during which they will play the Small-Sword, Cut-and-Thrust, Broad-Sword, and Cudgel or Cane Fighting; to close with a Duel between Messrs. T. & G., who will at first fight with Sabres, and afterwards with Small-Swords, until one of the parties falls weltering in blood. The Exhibition will be on FRIDAY, the 3Oth inft., at 7 o'clock P. M., at the Military School, Washington Hall, Court street. Terms of admission, One Dollar. Tickets to be had at Mr. Crombie's Salem Hotel, and at Mr. Tucker's Sun-Tavern. June 23.

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