Two components of a pony harness from the mid-1800s, the collar and hames, believed to have been used with the miniature horses or ponies who drew... Show moreTwo components of a pony harness from the mid-1800s, the collar and hames, believed to have been used with the miniature horses or ponies who drew the miniature show carriage of Charles S. Stratton, better known by his stage name, General Tom Thumb. General Tom Thumb's miniature "equipage" (turnout of carriage, coachman, and ponies) is featured in many of the souvenirs and advertisements promoting his celebrity. Queen Victoria famously presented Stratton with a custom-made miniature coach and ponies, though her gift was not the only such carriage made for him. The purpose of the collar is to allow the pony to more easily and efficiently draw weight, in this case, a miniature carriage, by enabling the animal to use the strength of its rear legs to push forward, rather than pulling from the shoulders. The thickly padded collar is black leather, made in the typical elongated oval form with the ends pulled to a point. The surface of the collar is completely rounded so that the animal's skin is not chafed or cut when wearing the collar. The metal hames fits snugly around the collar and with its straps and connectors, attaches it to the harness traces. Stratton's miniature carriages were most likely pulled by Shetland ponies, which are very small, ranging in height at the withers (shoulders) between 28 and 46 inches. They are a hardy breed known for strength and intelligence, and were traditionally bred to pull carts and small wagons, and as pack animals. Charles S. Stratton (January 4, 1838 - July 15, 1883) was an entertainer who got his start with P. T. Barnum in the 1840s. Stratton's parents signed him with Barnum when the boy was barely five years old. The family went to live in New York City where Stratton performed at Barnum's American Museum, located on Broadway at Ann Street. The little boy took quickly to performing, and on tours he entertained audiences worldwide, including royalty. Stratton's performances brought him renown, becoming one of the biggest celebrities at the time, and considerable wealth. In 1863, Stratton married fellow performer and little person M. Lavinia Warren; the two had a happy marriage and continued touring and performing. On July 15,1883, Stratton suffered a stroke and passed away. He is buried at Mountain Grove Cemetery in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Show less