Funster History

Since 1957 the Hadi Shrine Funsters have been entertaining the young and young at heart in Evansville and the Tri-State area.  Formed by Past Potentate Kilburn Rogers, the Funsters' mission is not only to spread their unique brand of cheer, but to also help children by supporting Shriners Hospitals and the Red Sneaker Fund. 

The Hadi Funsters are fortune to be able to follow in the footsteps of the early clowns and help preserve the history of the unity through the vast collection of early props and vehicles.  Many of these vehicles and props have been used in the circus and parades for many years.  One of the most well known possessions is the 1926 Chevrolet known as the "Bucking Car".  This car was donated to the Funsters by Past Potentate Ed Fritz and since it's transformation into a clown car in 1961 has entertained hundreds of thousands of spectators over the years.  Amongst the props and vehicles, there's the Famous Crosley Taxi Cab, the Crosley Boomer cannon, the Trolley, and a fleet of Model T mini-cars.  They even have a booth at the fall festival every year selling their famous Chocolate Covered Clown Noses.   

The Funsters can be seen around the community at hundreds of events each year.  These events include the Hadi Shrine Circus, Shrinersfest, parades, birthday parties, corporate events, and much much more.   

From a charter membership of 10 clowns, the Funsters have grown to be one of the largest and strongest clown units in North America.  With a roster of nearly 100 active, retired, and apprentice members they represent and support Hadi Temple well.  The Hadi Funsters have traveled across the United States and Canada representing the Hadi Shrine.  We are proud of our heritage that was started many years ago and look forward to carrying on that heritage for many years to come.  

If you would like to contact us to request an event, please fill click here Event Request, and our Events Director will be in touch.  You can also call the Funster Hotline at 812-480-9812.

Interesting Facts

  • The Hadi Funsters were formed in 1957.
  • The Hadi Funsters have won numerous awards for Makeup, Skits and Parades.
  • The Hadi Funsters have Paraded in Las Vegas, and Ontario Canada.
  • The Hadi Funsters have a booth at the West Side Nut Club Fall Festival.
  • Many Funsters support the Warrick County Klowns booth at the West Side Nut Club Fall Festival.
  • The Hadi Funsters signature item at the West Side Nut Club Fall Festival are the Chocolate Covered Clown Noses.

The Funsters are also members of the following:

Great Lakes Shrine Clown Units Association
www.glscua.net
International Shrine Clown Association
www.shrineclowns.com

The Bucking Car

  • The Bucking Car is a 1926 Chevrolet Sedan
  • The Engine and Transmission are still period correct and were rebuilt in 2006.
  • The car was transformed into the "Bucking Car" in 1961.
  • The car has cutter brakes that allow it to spin in circles and steer with the wheels in the air.
  • The front wheels are the original wood spoke wheels.
  • The rear wheels are custom made steel wheels to handle the load of the spins.

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