World-famous aerialist and drag performer Barbette has been honored with a new Texas Historical Marker in Round Rock Cemetery. The marker is one of a handful of historical markers in Texas recognizing LGBTQ+ history.

Barbette was the stage name of Vander Clyde Broadway, who was born in Round Rock and graduated from Round Rock High School in 1913. In the 1920s he became famous for tightrope and trapeze routines that he performed in drag. By 1923 he was touring Europe, where he came in contact with the Parisian avant-garde, inspiring an essay by Jean Cocteau on the nature and artifice of theater called Le Numero Barbette, which was illustrated with images of Barbette getting into costume taken by surrealist photographer Man Ray. In the 1930s and 1940s he became an aerial choreographer for the Ringling Brothers circus and several films. Barbette was named a Local Legend in 2015. CBS Austin reporter John-Carlos Estrada has recently completed a book about Barbette to be published in 2027 by UT Press.

Round Rock historical marker honors 1920s drag performer, aerialist Barbette | KXAN Austin
Texas city honors once-forgotten 20th century drag queen | Chron
Round Rock to unveil Texas historical marker honoring trailblazing performer Barbette | CBS Austin
UT Press & CBS Austin Anchor John-Carlos Estrada revive lost story of Texas icon Barbette | CBS Austin
most famous Texan you’ve never heard of gets heartfelt honor in Austin-area town | MYSA
Drag queen from Round Rock known for trapeze skills honored with plaque | Austin American Statesman