Description:

Charles S. Stratton
New York, NY, ca. 1863
The Fairy Wedding of Genl. Tom Thumb & Lavinia Warren, Lot of 5 CDVs From Brady Negatives
Archive
A collection of 5 cartes-de-visite featuring the wedding of Charles Stratton (a.k.a. "General Tom Thumb") and Lavinia Warren. Each measuring approximately 2.5" x 4", New York, ca. 1863. The images show Charles and Lavinia in a variety of poses, with two also including bridesmaid Minnie Warren and groomsman George Washington "Commodore" Nutt. All examples have been published by Edward Anthony's studio on Broadway, taken from the original photographic negatives by Mathew Brady. Varying degrees of age toning, creasing, and scattered soiling throughout; featuring facsimile signatures to three, relaying "compliments" from the wedding party. Backstamps present to all. Very good overall. Please see accompanying images for further condition information.

Charles Sherwood Stratton (1838-1883), better known by his stage name "General Tom Thumb" was an American performer who's act was mainly attributed to pioneer showman P.T. Barnum. Born in Bridgeport, CT to parents of medium height, Charles would grow and develop at an average pace until the age of six months, when he suddenly stopped. While proportionate and healthy, he would eventually reach his tallest at around 3 feet. P.T. Barnum had heard of Stratton's small stature and scouted him out at the age of 5, teaching him dance, sing, and do impersonations. Later, while working at Barnum's American Museum in New York, Stratton would meet future wife Lavinia Warren (1841-1919) who began her career after hearing about his success as "Tom Thumb".

Their wedding, held on February 10, 1863, thus became one of the biggest events of nineteenth century New York. The event took place at Grace Episcopal Church, with a reception at the Metropolitan Hotel. The wedding party consisted of best man George Washington Morrison ("Commodore") Nutt, also in Barnum's employ, and maid of honor Minnie Warren, Lavinia's sister. At the reception, Stratton and Warren notably stood atop a grand piano to greet some 10,000 guests. Following the wedding, the couple was received by President Lincoln at the White House before leaving on a tour of Europe.

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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  • Dimensions: 2.5" x 4"
  • Medium: Archive

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September 18, 2024 10:00 AM EDT
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