# XLIII: The New Museum explained — Struggles and Triumphs

> Chapter companion for Struggles and Triumphs by P. T. Barnum.

## What happens

Barnum describes the formation of the Barnum and Van Amburgh Museum and Menagerie Company, the acquisition of the Gordon Cummings African collection, and the sensational arrival of a gorilla. He also recounts his leisure time at the White Mountains, including a footrace trick and his own 'sliver trick' retaliation. The chapter concludes with his agreement to assist Mr. George Wood in opening Wood's Museum in New York.

## Themes in this chapter

### Showmanship and Humbug

Barnum's 'sliver trick' at the White Mountains exemplifies his playful showmanship and ability to turn a prank on his would-be tricksters.

### Resilience in Adversity

After the destruction of his second museum by fire, Barnum adapts by forming a new company and continuing his work in amusement.

### Public Perception and Reputation

Barnum leverages his name and reputation as General Manager of the new company, and the press sensationalizes the arrival of the gorilla.

## Character check-ins

### P. T. Barnum

Narrates the chapter; forms the Barnum and Van Amburgh Company, acquires the Gordon Cummings collection, visits the White Mountains, and opens Wood's Museum.

### Mr. George A. Wells

Purchased the Gordon Cummings collection for Barnum while traveling in Great Britain with General Tom Thumb.

### General Tom Thumb

Traveled with Mr. George A. Wells in Great Britain during the acquisition of the Gordon Cummings collection.

### Mr. Greeley

Mentioned as one of the notable figures who favored Barnum's plan for a free national institution.

### Mr. George Wood

Engaged in enlarging Banvard's building for a Museum and theater; proposed an arrangement with Barnum and requested his presence at the opening.

### Mr. James Gordon Bennett

Referenced indirectly through the Tribune's famous report of the burning of the American Museum.

## Key lines

> I should not rust out; and, moreover, the new museum would afford me a pleasant place to drop into when I felt inclined to do so.

Barnum saw the arrangement with Wood's Museum as a way to stay active and enjoy a familiar environment without full responsibility.

_Reflects Barnum's desire for meaningful leisure._

> It was acknowledged by all that Barnum gave them a world of fun, and that he and his friends left the Profile House with flying colors.

Barnum's sliver trick was a hit, and he departed the Profile House triumphantly.

_Highlights Barnum's skill at turning a prank to his advantage._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/struggles_and_triumphs_se/chapters/xliii-the-new-museum
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/struggles_and_triumphs_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/struggles_and_triumphs_se/chapters