Letter: To Knowlton from P.T. Barnum, March 21, 1889

Letter to Knowlton from P.T. Barnum, March 21, 1889 This letter informs Knowlton that Barnum made a new codicil the other day naming him executor in case either of the two named should decline. He goes on to write "but considering you are to have the cares of the Post Office, I want to appoint an executor in your case who has a thorough knowledge of my affairs. Judge of Probate Beardsley recommends that two executors only shall be appointed. I shall gladly be one of your something as Post Master, and you have all my respect and confidence." P.T. Barnum wrote a large number of letters in his time, and as a public figure, received many in return. These manuscripts offer insight into his personal life via correspondence with friends and family, his business interests including the American Museum and the circus, and his personality. The various correspondents demonstrate how vast his social circle was, and the space he occupied as a public figure during his own lifetime.