John Lester (showman)

John Lester
1920 passport photo
Born(1867-10-08)October 8, 1867
DiedOctober 27, 1950(1950-10-27) (aged 83)
London, England
OccupationsShowman, impresario
Years active1880s–1940s

John Lester (October 8, 1867 – October 27, 1950) was an American traveling carnival showman and variety show impresario. He headed a family of entertainers who often performed together, and in later life worked mainly in Britain. His sons Harry (born Harrold Worth Lester; July 9, 1895 – July 4, 1993) and Burton Lester (born Burton Conklin Lester; September 27, 1897 – January 10, 1955) were also prominent variety show entertainers. The family performed a wide variety of acts, but were most notable for their midget shows, and for Harry Lester's comedy hillbilly music performances.