Advertisement for a lecture to be given by P. T. Barnum at Grosvenor Square in London, on January 30, 1890. Barnum's lecture was composed of "sketches" of his life, but also included musical entertainment in the program. At the beginning of the program, and between Parts 1 and 2 of Barnum's lecture, an "American Lady Whistler" named Mrs. Shaw, and an "American Banjo Artist" named Mr. P. C. Shortis were to perform. Among the sketches of Barnum's life include topics drawn from his early life, as well as his meeting Queen Victoria with Charles S. Stratton (General Tom Thumb). The advertisement states that the entire proceeds from the lecture and performance would be given to the Irish Home Industries. Barnum was a supporter of Irish Home Rule. Along the bottom of the handbill someone handwrote in black ink, "Tickets 10/-- $2.50!" Presumably this note means that the tickets cost ten shillings each, which was equivalent to $2.50 in American dollars, and the writer's exclamation point implies this was a very high price. Phineas Taylor (P. T.) Barnum was born in Bethel, Connecticut on July 5, 1810. Although best known for his involvement in the circus, his endeavors in that area did not come about until he was in his early 60s. He had a multi-faceted career, first as a newspaperman, then as a showman and museum proprietor. His American Museum in New York City became famous for offering instructive amusements and displays of all kinds, attracting audiences from around the country and the world. The American Museum lasted from 1842 to 1868. Barnum was a prolific writer and for periods of time from the 1850s to 1890 he traveled around the country and in England giving lectures. He was a proponent of Temperance and gave many lectures on that subject, however this advertised lecture concerned amusing incidents and anecdotes about his life. The advertisement demonstrates his role as a pubilc figure, and one who could attract an audience to support a social cause he cared about. Barnum died in his beloved adopted home city of Bridgeport, Connecticut, just over a year later, on April 7, 1891.
