Tom Thumb's Carriage, circa 1875

Summary

This miniature carriage was custom built for entertainer Charles Stratton, better known by his stage name Tom Thumb. Discovered by P.T. Barnum, the diminutive Thumb (3 feet, 4 inches tall when fully grown) sang and danced to the delight of 19th century audiences. Thumb advertised his show by riding in this carriage, behind a team of ponies, through cities where he performed.

This miniature carriage was custom built for entertainer Charles Stratton, better known by his stage name Tom Thumb. Discovered by P.T. Barnum, the diminutive Thumb (3 feet, 4 inches tall when fully grown) sang and danced to the delight of 19th century audiences. Thumb advertised his show by riding in this carriage, behind a team of ponies, through cities where he performed.

Artifact

Brougham (Carriage)

Date Made

circa 1875

Creators

Unknown

Place of Creation

United Kingdom, England 

Creator Notes

Attributed to an English maker.

Location

Not on exhibit to the public.

Object ID

35.687.1

Credit

From the Collections of The Henry Ford. Gift of the University of New Hampshire.

Material

Wood (Plant material)
Glass (Material)
Leather
Corduroy
Steel (Alloy)
Rubber (Material)

Color

Black (Color)
Red

Dimensions

Height: 53.75 in

Width: 42.625 in

Length: 83 in

Wheelbase: 51.5 in

Diameter: 26.25 in  (Wheel Diameter)

Diameter: 30.25 in  (Wheel Diameter)

Inscriptions

Imprinted on tires on proper right side: UNION E.P. SANDERSON CO. BOSTON

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