Barnum Sends A Note From My Principal Wild Animal Keeper By Which You Will See That The Tiger Has Two Single And Two Double Teeth Between The Tusks In Its Upper Jaw

PHINEAS T. BARNUM (1810-1891). Barnum was the most famous showman of his time. He presented attractions which were enormously popular in their time, such as General Tom Thumb Jenny Linds concert tour of America, the Feejee mermaid and Jumbo the elephant. He co-founded Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus. ALS. 1pg. 4 x 7. October 18, 1886. Bridgeport, Connecticut. An autograph letter signed P.T. Barnum on the letterhead of his mansion Waldemere in Bridgeport. He wrote to the Editor of the Albany Evening Journal: Dear Sir, In reply to yours of the 6th inst, I enclose a note from my principal Wild Animal Keeper by which you will see that (truncated) the Tiger has two single and two double teeth between the tusks in its upper jaw. Truly yours P.T. Barnum. It is accompanied by a letter from Hyatt Frost, who was one of Barnums employees and worked as an animal importer: Savannah Ga Oct 16/86 P.T. Barnum Esq Dear Sir Yours of the 8th received to day and in reply will say that a Tiger has 2 single and 2 double teeth between the tusks up on its upper jaw. Yours truly F. Hyatt. Both letters have mounting remnants but are in fine condition. Most unusual Barnum content! (Inventory #: 4362)