How P.T. Barnum Started the Circus
Barnum established his traveling circus at age 60. Before becoming an entertainer, he held various jobs, including at his family’s farm. There he met his wife Charity, marrying her for 44 years. In 1870 Barnum and William Cameron Coup created "P. T. Barnum’s Grand Traveling Museum" in Wisconsin. It was a traveling circus, menagerie, and museum of "freaks". Its first major attraction was Jumbo the African elephant. After Barnum died, James Bailey bought his share from his widow. By 1902, when Bailey returned from Europe, the Ringling brothers from Wisconsin were an established circus on the east coast. The Barnum and Bailey Circus contained similar acts to Barnum’s Traveling Menagerie like acrobats and freak shows. Barnum relished what he publicly called "profitable philanthropy". He was made a trustee.
P.T. Barnum’s Age When Entering The Circus Business
Barnum did not enter the circus business until he was 60 years old. In 1870, he established "P. T. Barnum’s Grand Traveling Museum" in Delavan, Wisconsin with William Cameron Coup. It was a traveling circus, menagerie, and museum of "freaks".
Succession of Ownership in Barnum’s Circus
After Barnum’s death, James Bailey purchased P. T.’s share of the circus from his widow. The five Ringling brothers of Baraboo, Wisconsin, had started a small circus. By the time Bailey returned from Europe in 1902, the Ringlings were well established on the east coast.