About

The Full Story

​Since 1957, the Hadi Shrine Funsters have been entertaining the young—and the young at heart—throughout Evansville and the Tri-State area. Formed by Past Potentate Kilburn Rogers, the Funsters were created with a mission that goes beyond laughter: to spread joy while helping children through support of Shriners Hospitals for Children and the Red Sneaker Fund.
The Funsters are proud to follow in the footsteps of the early clowns who built this unit. We actively preserve our rich history through a vast collection of original props and vehicles, many of which have been featured in circuses and parades for decades. Among our most famous pieces is the legendary 1926 Chevrolet “Bucking Car.” Donated by Past Potentate Ed Fritz, the Bucking Car was transformed into a clown car in 1961 and has since entertained hundreds of thousands of spectators.
Our collection also includes the famous Crosley Taxi Cab (with a supply of clowns), the Crosley Boomer Cannon, the Trolley, and a fleet of Model T mini-cars. Each year, the Funsters are also a staple at the Fall Festival, where we proudly sell our well-known Chocolate Covered Clown Noses.
The Hadi Shrine Funsters are deeply rooted in the community and can be seen at hundreds of events each year. These include the Hadi Shrine Circus, Shrinersfest, parades, picnics, birthday parties, corporate events, Evansville Otters baseball games, reptile shows, and much more.
From a charter group of just 10 clowns, the Funsters have grown into one of the largest and strongest clown units in North America. Today, with nearly 90 active, retired, and apprentice members, we proudly represent and support Hadi Temple. Our clowns have traveled across the United States and Canada, sharing laughter and representing the Hadi Shrine wherever we go.
We are proud of the heritage that began so many years ago—and we look forward to carrying that legacy of laughter, service, and community engagement for generations to come.