Sheet Music for Tom Thumb's Polka composed by W. Mardon. During this time the polka was a very popular dance, having origins in Bohemia (the modern... Show moreSheet Music for Tom Thumb's Polka composed by W. Mardon. During this time the polka was a very popular dance, having origins in Bohemia (the modern Czech Republic). In the United States, the polka could be danced in two ways: in a style close to rustic origins, or in a style that had been refined in the ballrooms of Europe. The popularity of the polka caused all kinds of merchandise to be fabricated with the word "polka" on it. Charles S. Stratton (January 4, 1838- July 15, 1883), known as General Tom Thumb, was an entertainer and Bridgeport Conn. native who got his start with P.T. Barnum in 1842. Stratton's parents signed him with Barnum at age 4, as exhibiting those with dwarfism was lucrative at the time. Stratton took quickly to performing, and he entertained audiences worldwide, including nobility such as Queen Victoria. Stratton married fellow performer M. Lavinia Warren and the two had a happy marriage. Stratton's performances brought him renown as a celebrity, perhaps one of the biggest at the time, and he and Warren were able to live comfortably when not working. On July 15, 1883, Stratton suffered a stroke and passed away. He is buried at Mountain Grove Cemetery in Bridgeport, Connecticut, with his wife beside him. Published by G. P. Reed, 17 Tremont Row. One page. Show less