Barnum's Aquarial Gardens facts for kids
| Date opened | June 1862 |
|---|---|
| Date closed | February 1863 |
| Location | Boston, Massachusetts, USA |
| Coordinates | 42°42′39″N 73°01′11″W / 42.7109°N 73.0198°W |
Barnum's Aquarial Gardens was a special place in Boston, Massachusetts, USA. It was a mix of an aquarium, a small zoo, and a theater all in one! It opened in June 1862 and closed just a few months later, in February 1863.
The famous showman P.T. Barnum bought the original Boston Aquarial and Zoological Gardens. He changed its name and made it a place more focused on exciting shows than on serious science. It became a popular spot for people to see amazing acts and unique exhibits.
What Was Barnum's Aquarial Gardens?
Barnum's Aquarial Gardens was located on Washington Street in Boston's Financial District. P.T. Barnum, known for his museums and circuses, bought the existing gardens in 1862. He quickly updated the space and reopened it to the public.
Barnum wanted to create a place full of wonder and entertainment. Instead of just looking at animals, visitors could enjoy all sorts of performances. It was a place where something new and exciting was always happening!
Fun Shows and Exhibits
Barnum's Aquarial Gardens was famous for its unique and sometimes strange attractions. People came to see all kinds of acts and exhibits.
Some of the popular shows included:
- Dog Show: In June 1862, visitors could see a show featuring talented dogs.
- Baby Show: In July 1862, there was a "baby show" that featured "fine and fancy specimens of infantile humanity."
- Madame Lanista: One of the most talked-about acts was "Madame Lanista," who would wrestle with snakes!
- Jonathan Harrington: A performer named Jonathan Harrington entertained audiences in August 1862.
- General Tom Thumb and Commodore Nutt: These two famous "little people" were a big draw in September 1862. They were known as "two rival pigmies."
- Miss Dora Dawron: She was a "double voiced singer" who wore a special costume. It made her look like half man and half woman.
- Miss Leone: Dressed as Venus, she would ride in a nautilus shell boat. She would even "drive" a whale around the big central tank!
- Albino Family: Visitors could also see an Albino Family on display.
Besides these unique acts, the Gardens also hosted dramatic performances. These plays and shows were held from December 16, 1862, until the venue closed.
The End of the Gardens
Barnum's Aquarial Gardens closed its doors on February 14, 1863. After it closed, many of its exhibits and animals were moved to Barnum's American Museum in New York City.
Sadly, most of these exhibits were later destroyed. This happened when Barnum's American Museum burned down in 1865.
