The Great Monohan – a legend of roller skating
Some personalities set a milestone in the history of skating. At the beginning of the 20th century, the American "The Great Monohan" became a roller skating legend due to his acrobatic performances.
Par Vernon SULLIVAN
Some elements of the biography of G.S. Monohan
G. S. Monohan left his marks on the world of skating in the 20th century thanks to his spectacular performances. He was known in the United States and in France. From 1909 to 1912 his shows were noted in the chronicles of Paris.
Parallel to his shows, the magazine “le Standard de Blackburn” reported on 10.04.1909 that G.S. Monohan has opened a roller skating rink, which was decorated with Swiss landscapes. Visitors were only allowed to enter the rink in eveningwear.
Monohan has written a user manual for the use of roller skates
In 1909 he wrote the book “Text-Book of Roller Skating – Roller Skating for Novice and Expert”. One understands very fast that he does not address the amateurs!
Skating on a barrel
He does not recommend trying out in public as it rarely works.
Steeple chasing
Athletics associate this discipline with jumps over bars. In this case, the bars have been replaced by chairs and it is neither comfortable nor easy to jump off and land.
He warned us to “practices step by step” and “to be prepared to crash from time to time”.
The predecessor of the slalom on wheels
He also suggests skating on tiptoes: expand your skills by moving through a maze of candles with a burning hat!
“It’s about normal roller skating that involves putting on a special helmet decorated with candles. The helmet turns in the opposite direction of its wearer, the candles develop a special effect.”
Exclusively for the future professionals!
This style of slalom is the predecessor of the modern freestyle slalom with just a few adjustments.
He concludes his book in the following humble words: hoping that this book will be able to “recruit some former roller skaters for recreational activity [and] motivate beginners”.
Reviews of the press
Le Sport Universel Illustré – 03.07.1910
“In the Hippodrome Skating Rink, the denizens were able to admire the fabulous Monohan, who showed for the first time in France his wonderful exercises daily at 16:45 and 22:45.”
Journal La Presse – 05.11.1910
“During the holidays the Hippodrome Skating Rink was filled with roller skaters. They organized various races and last night a thrilling football game took place in the skating ring. Tonight a hockey game will occur and next week “The Great Monohan” will impress the audience.”
Journal Gil Blas – 09.11.1910
“The amazing American roller skater will be performing for the first time in France at the Hippodrome Skating Rink. He will be showing his performances twice a day throughout the week. He is the only performer in his show and his specialty is the performance on the barrel. In this occasion we offer 10,000 francs as a challenge. “
Le Petit Journal – 02.02.1912
“This Sunday, the famous American skater Monohan, also called” The Magician”, will leave the Rink Saint-Didier, where he impressed spectators for a week. The performances of “The Magician” are truly breathtaking, proving a mixture of boldness and humor. For example his jump over 5 tables of 1m50 height is a real record. In Saint-Didier the best skaters will be showing special figures every afternoon. “
Le Journal – 06.02.1912
“Monohan! The stunning magician”, the incomparable skater, is currently at the Rink in Saint-Didier. The director of the Rink, M. Demers, was able to keep him until next Sunday. Don’t miss his performance on the barrel, his jump over 5 tables or his dances.
