P.T. BARNUM - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 06/23/1856 - HFSID 2163

P. T. BARNUM
Barnum handwrote and signed this letter, expressing worry about his finances, from New York in 1856. This letter was written one year after he retired from show business and one year before resuming his career because of his debts; it offers a glimpse into a rare year when Barnum wasn't the most famous huckster and showman in the world.
Autograph Letter signed: "P. T. Barnum", 1 page, 5x7. New York, 1856 June 23. To an unnamed recipient, in full: "I have just heard from E. T. Nichols (through his brother) that the $1800 mortgage in favor of Brayton is valid & good. I write this therefore to apprise you of the fact. My affairs move slowly & the prospect of getting out does not look as bright as it has done. Truly yours". In 1835, Phineas Taylor Barnum (1810-1891) began his career as a showman with his purchase and exploitation of a Black woman, Joyce Heth, reputed to have been the nurse of George Washington and to be over 160 years old. He purchased Scudder's American Museum in New York in 1841, adding to it to make his museum one of the most popular shows in the U.S. Barnum retired in 1855 but, because of creditors, resumed his career as showman and museum proprietor in 1857. In 1869, Barnum organized "The Greatest Show on Earth" which opened in Brooklyn, N.Y. in 1871. In 1881, he became partners with James A. Bailey of Cooper, Bailey and Company's Circus, forming "Barnum and Bailey's Greatest Show on Earth". In 1907, his circus was sold to Ringling Brothers. Horizontal and vertical folds. Slightly soiled. Otherwise, fine condition.