P.T. Barnum papers 1843-1890

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P.T. Barnum papers 1843-1890

http://archives.nypl.org/mss/215

Phineas Taylor Barnum (1810-1891) was an American showman. He originated the traveling circus, and in 1881 with his leading rival, James Bailey, formed the Barnum and Bailey Circus. Barnum also was active in Connecticut politics and served as mayor of Bridgeport from 1867 to 1869. Collection consists of letters written by P.T. Barnum to Moses Kimball, Gordon Lester Ford and others, 1846-1890; press clippings and newspapers containing references to Barnum's "Fiji Mermaid" exhibit in the southern United States, 1843; and autograph passes, a calling card and other miscellaneous items.

.3 linear foot (1 box)

New York Public Library. Manuscripts and Archives Division

Information

SNAC Resource ID: 6312361

New York Public Library. Manuscripts and Archives Division

Related Entities

There are 3 Entities related to this resource.

Barnum, P. T. (Phineas Taylor), 1810-1891

http://n2t.net/ark:/99166/w6524q6z (person)

Phineas Taylor Barnum was an American showman, businessman and politician remembered for promoting celebrated hoaxes and founding the Barnum & Bailey Circus (1871–2017) with James Anthony Bailey. He was also an author, publisher and philanthropist. Barnum became a small-business owner in his early twenties and founded a weekly newspaper before moving to New York City in 1834. He embarked on an entertainment career, first with a variety troupe called "Barnum's Grand Scientific and Musical The...

Ford, Gordon Lester, 1823-1891

http://n2t.net/ark:/99166/w6h13cn1 (person)

Gordon Lester Ford (1823-1891) was a businessman, lawyer and collector of Americana. He practiced law for much of his life but his main interests were business and real estate investment. He was president of the New London, Willimantic & Palmer Railroad from 1852 to 1856 and director or investor in several other railroads. He also served as U.S. Marshall in southern New York, collector of internal revenue for the third collection district, commissioner of deeds, and business manager of the N...

Kimball, M. (Moses), 1799-1868

http://n2t.net/ark:/99166/w67q3mnb (person)