After the Civil War jobs were scarce and a great depression swept the country. In order to earn a living, Edward Billings and his trained bear Ebeneezer traveled from town to town in the countryside of Kentucky. Edward wrestled with Ebneezer and the townspeople rewarded their entertainment by throwing money in a hat. Edward loved the bear and vice versa. On more than one occasion Edward and Ebeneezer shared a jug of whiskey as well as their meals. One day Ebeneezer squeezed Edward a bit too hard and broke Edward's ribs. One of the broken ribs punctured Edward's lung causing his death. Edward's last wish was that no harm come to the bear. Ebeneezer the bear was returned to the wilds of Kentucky.