Description:

Barnum Phineas

P.T. Barnum ALS Dated After Jenny Lind Tour & During Short-Lived Publication of Illustrated News

 

1p autograph letter signed by American entertainer Phineas T. Barnum (1810-1891) as "P T Barnum" at lower right, and fully engrossed with 25+ words in his hand. Written in Bridgeport, Connecticut on October 10, 1853. The letter is hinged at top verso to a green beveled mat measuring 9.5" x 6.5". Expected folds and a few extra wrinkles, including a light vertical fold that runs through the "P" of "PT". A minor stain is concealed under the bottom edge of the mat. Else near fine. Sight size of letter: 6.75" x 3.75". Just waiting for the glass and frame to be hung on the wall!

 

Barnum wrote this letter to an autograph seeker about a year after wrapping up his sensational Jenny Lind tour. The Swedish soprano had signed a 2-year contract with the showman in 1849. Barnum's intense marketing campaign preceded Lind's arrival in the United States in 1850, arousing such public excitement that the press coined the term "Lindmania." This incredibly popular and profitable enterprise contrasted with Barnum's abysmal foray into newspaper publishing in 1853. Barnum & Beach Brothers had launched a new profusely illustrated rag called Illustrated News on January 1, 1853; it didn’t even last a year.

 

In full:

 

"Bridgeport Conn Oct 10th 1853

 

Mr Isaac Waldren

 

Dear Sir

 

Pursuant to your request I send my autograph, I am my dear sir

 

Truly yours

 

P T Barnum".

 

A lovely P.T. Barnum autograph!

 

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

 

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February 26, 2020 10:30 AM EST
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