Barnum and Bailey sign contract creating Barnum & Bailey Circus

Background. P. T. Barnum and James Anthony Bailey were established circus owners who agreed to combine their shows. Barnum, a showman and businessman, founded the circus with Bailey, who was known for working behind the scenes. The partnership was formalized through a contract signed in Bridgeport, Connecticut, in August 1880, creating the entity known as Barnum & Bailey's Circus.

Partnership Formation. The contract between Barnum and Bailey established Barnum and Bailey's Circus in 1880, with their combined show opening the following spring in Madison Square Garden. Bailey was instrumental in obtaining Jumbo the Elephant, which became the show's first primary attraction after Barnum purchased it in 1882 from the London Zoo. Barnum served as the face of the circus, while Bailey insisted on staying behind the scenes.

Early Operations. The combined show opened in Madison Square Garden in the spring following the 1880 contract. The partnership faced challenges, leading to a parting of ways in 1885, though they rejoined in 1888. The entity was later known as the Barnum & Bailey Greatest Show on Earth, which toured the world.