As an Ambassador working with the Connecticut Office of Tourism, I had the opportunity not long ago to visit a number of Connecticut’s landmarks. While you can read about all of them in my recently published article, below is an excerpt about the statue in the feature photo of this post.
P.T. Barnum’s statue enjoys an ocean view at Seaside Park in Bridgeport, CT.
“With the incredible popularity of the recent film “The Greatest Showman”, I have become mildly obsessed with the fascinating history of P.T. Barnum, the man behind the Greatest Show on Earth. The film contains numerous historical inaccuracies, and sadly it fails to recognize that Connecticut, and Bridgeport specifically, were Barnum’s home for most of his life.
Like all of us, Barnum had his admirable and less admirable qualities. Though he is deemed by some to be a huckster that took advantage of both the public and those that worked for him, he had a generous side that benefited the people of Bridgeport tremendously.
Barnum was elected Mayor of Bridgeport in 1875, and symbols of his long life there are scattered about the city. Perhaps the most meaningful is the bronze likeness of him that faces Long Island Sound in Seaside Park, a 325-acre gem that exists because Barnum donated a large portion of his own land to the cause. Over the years he also built housing, helped
Barnum called Bridgeport home, and over the years he did much to help the city and its residents.
On a Saturday morning drive to White Plains, NY via Bridgeport, I found myself speechless traveling down Soundview Drive at the park, delighted by the stunning early morning skies, the squawking of the seagulls, and the peaceful stillness of the place. I could imagine the real P.T. Barnum standing where his statue is today, overlooking the same view.”
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Hope you enjoyed learning a bit about P.T. Barnum – such an interesting character! Here are a few things that have been on my radar lately:
- Every time I put on one of these T-shirts I think “I have to tell people about these!” They are THE softest T-shirt I have ever owned and I reach for them almost daily. I’m getting ready to stock up on some short-sleeved T’s for warmer weather. I can’t recommend them enough, and you won’t believe the price.
- I’m about to watch the Academy Awards, and I sincerely hope that “Bohemian Rhapsody” is a clean sweep across all categories, including Best Actor Rami Malek. Have you seen the film?
- One of my all-time favorite movies is Jaws, and I love that it was filmed on Martha’s Vineyard which is our annual family vacation spot. I recently came across this article about a few other movies filmed in New England. Do you know of others?
- I have spring on my mind as we head into March, and I pulled together a selection of spring wreaths in case you are getting spring fever, too.
- Speaking of home decor, I have started a new Facebook Group called “Create Great Curb Appeal”. It is a private group, and members will be able to ask their own decor questions or provide input to others looking for advice. Plus I’ll be sharing some of my own ideas. Please join us!
- A recent high school graduate from my town of West Hartford was pulled out of a concert audience last week to sing for none other than Michael Bublé. The video gave me chills! Mr. Bublé was blown away, and the video went viral on Today, People, and more.
- Aside from the above, I have always enjoyed Michael Buble’s music. James Corden recently hosted him on one of his famous “Carpool Karaoke”, and in addition to some great music, you will hear Michael talk about his young son’s struggle with cancer.
- Did you know that you can purchase some of my images as prints, wall art, iPhone cases, magnets, and more? My gallery currently includes images from Boston and Martha’s Vineyard primarily, but I will be adding new ones periodically.
- I wrote an article for Discover Newport not too long ago about The Point, a well-known neighborhood in Newport with incredible historic architecture. It has some interesting history.
That’s it for now! What’s on your radar this week?
[x_author title=”About the Author”]
My name is Deb Cohen, and I am a lifelong resident of Connecticut, a lover of all things historic and New England, and a realtor who helps buyers and sellers achieve their real estate goals and dreams. When I’m not working, I enjoy life with my husband, our two adult children, and our two rescue pups. Renovating and decorating our historic home, dating to 1800, is another favorite pastime.
