Mountain Grove Cemetery, Bridgeport

Charles Stratton P. T. Barnum discovered Charles Stratton in 1842 at the age of four. Soon after, Barnum transformed Stratton into General Tom Thumb, one of the most significant freak show performers of all time. At an early age Stratton was trained to sing, dance, and imitate famous celebrities worldwide. As discussed in the lecture, under the guidance of Barnum, Tom Thumb performed around the world as well as at the American Museum, becoming the most famous dwarf of all time. P. T. Barnum was known for The American Museum and eventually exhibiting a number of “human curiosities” in the “What is It Exhibit.” Is this when Barnum crossed the line with turning entertainer to exploiter or during their three-year travels across Europe? In 1863, Barnum’s exploitation gets exponentially worse when he arranges Stratton to marry Lavinia Warren, another dwarf in Barnum’s collection. It was one of the most anticipated weddings in New York City. It was also said that Abraham Lincoln hosted their honeymoon party. This wedding made the public crave for more. Barnum had to think of something quick, a little baby for the little couple. It was never clear if the Stratton’s truly had a child of their own or if Barnum had rented the babies for appearances. When that idea had run its course, Barnum simply said the child had died. Per class discussion it has recently been revealed that John Gannon has discovered this may not have been the case and revealed paper evidence in a documentary that…

Phineas Taylor Barnum, or better known as "P. T." Barnum, described as a “jack of all trades” is an understatement. As a self-made businessman (or scammer), showman (or humbug), newspaper editor (or libeler), he lived a life of exhausted passion and success. He tells his own story in his autobiography, The Life of P.T. Barnum of living in 19th century America. P.T. Barnum’s optimistic and exuberant charisma certainly helped him make a profit, yet that alone did not gain him the title of a…