General & Mrs Tom Thumb
The legendary Phineas T. Barnum was introduced to the diminutive Charles Stratton (1838 to 1883) in Bridgeport, Connecticut at the Franklin House, which his half-brother managed. From that point on Stratton was destined to become the toast of 19th century American as well as continental Europe. Stratton was granted audiences with Queen Victoria, more than one U.S. President and countless dignitaries. By mid-19th century he was truly the most sought after celebrity in the world. Barnum, alwasy the consummate promoter and showman, was quick to exploit the Tom Thumb phenomena and – with the help of his neighbor Matthew Brady – Tom Thumb’s face became readily recognized the world over. As a result of this celebrity, Stratton became a very wealthy man and contributed greatly to Barnum’s riches as well.
In 1862, Stratton was introduced to Mercy Lavinia Warren Bump, a 21 year old dwarf, at the home of P.T. Barnum. Charles instantly fell in love with Lavinia and the two were married in a media event the likes of which the world had never seen. The General and Mrs. Tom Thumb enjoyed celebrity status throughout their lives.
In addition to Stratton and Barnum, a legion of photographers profited greatly from the couple, making photographs, copies of photographs and thousands of cartes de visite for an insatiable public following the lives of this most unusual couple.