Manuscript: P.T. Barnum's memo book from 1890 (first page)

P.T. Barnum kept a number of memo books in his middle years, and towards the end of his life. He was often photographed or otherwise depicted having one of his memo books in hand. This memo book is from 1890, and it has a medium brown cover with a round brass clasp. Upon opening this case, the inside reveals a top that gives Barnum's name and city that he is from which are stamped onto the cloth of the memo books's holder, the memo book itself, and a little envelope style pocket for holding papers. On the pages are to-do lists, scribbles from Barnum\u2019s grandchildren, and other notes that he made to himself. These notes show not only Barnum\u2019s record keeping, but how he organized his own activities later in life. Phineas Taylor (P.T.) Barnum (July 5, 1810-April 7, 1891) is primarily associated with the Barnum and Bailey Greatest Show on Earth. However, Barnum only began to focus on the circus in 1871. Prior to that he managed the American Museum in New York City from 1842-1868, was an elected official, mayor of Bridgeport, philanthropist, promoter, newspaper editor, and investor, among many, many other things. He promoted an image of himself along with his various ventures, which changed throughout the years, and was a celebrity in his own right. He often depicted himself with a pen and paper, or else sitting at a desk.