P.T. Barnum ALS to Black Preacher, Desiring To Obtain Missed Sermons

1p, measuring 5" x 6.75", [Bridgeport, Connecticut], undated [Ca. 1870s-1880s]. Signed "P.T. Barnum" and addressed to Reverend H.A. Davenport, a black preacher, regarding the publication of his popular sermons. With flattened mail folds and minor soiling. Mounting residue on verso. Boldly signed. The letter reads in full:

"I intended to have been at your sermon last Sunday night but ill health and cold weather prevented me. I am particularly desirous of handling the papers you have preached from, and therefore write to ask: 1st - whether you have printed it or whether it will be printed. 2nd - If you shall preach it again in this vicinity. 3rd - If neither, will you mind coming to dine or take tea with me on some day and reading it to me? Of the latter, we shall be glad to have you bring Mrs. Davenport, and if you have no horse I will send my carriage for you. Next Tuesday would suit me at 1 or 5 P.M."

The famed American entertainer Barnum had a mixed track record when it came to race relations. A former slave-owner, Barnum fully admitted that he had physically abused and exploited his slaves, vowing to make amends for his past actions in later life. His experiences would go on to inform his politics; he became an ardent abolitionist leading up to the Civil War and even switched political parties to join the Republican Party.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

WE PROVIDE IN-HOUSE SHIPPING WORLDWIDE!