A One-Name Study for the BARNUM/BARNHAM Surname
From the Bridgeport Evening Farmer, Bridgeport, Connecticut, March 11, 1915: David W. Thompson, Last of Famous Brothers; Dead. Succumbs to Illness at Age of 84, Son-in-Law of Phineas T. Barnum. David W. Thompson, the last of three famous brothers, all of whom had taken an active interest in the business life and the growth and development of Bridgeport, died at 10:30 o'clock today at his home, 446 Waldemere avenue. He was 84 years of age and the illness which preceded his death was the "first serious sickness he had ever experienced". Mr. Thompson was born in Bridgeport, the son of Eli and Frances S. Thompson. His father was engaged in the wood and coal business in this city and after leaving school, Mr. Thompson himself engaged in the coal business for a short time. He afterward went to New York where for 24 years he held a most important position in the New York custom house. In 1853 Mr. Thompson married Caroline, eldest daughter of the late P. T. Barnum. Their marriage was a happy union, which lasted 59 years. Mrs. Thompson died about three years ago. Mr. Thompson is survived by'one daughter, Mrs. William B. Leigh of Waldemere avenue. Since his return to Bridgeport, Mr. Thompson had devoted his attention to his real estate interests which were extensive. Although Mr. Thompson never had any connection with the circus which bears Barnum's name. He took a deep interest in all municipal affairs. He was a devout communicant of the Protestant Episcopal church and was a member of St. John's of this city and a member and warden of the Church of the Heavenly Rest in New York city. He was a member of St. John's Lodge, F. and A. M. of this city and of Hamilton Commandery, Knights Templar. For many years Mr. Thompson had resided in the handsome mansion facing Seaside Park where he died. He was of commanding, appearance and fond of horses and preferred to ride behind them rather than in an automobile. He was at his office in the Park theater building almost every day where the Barnum offices have been located for more than half a century. The illness which caused his death came on last October - following a severe cold. The infirmities of his advanced years caused death. Mr. Thompson's, brothers, both deceased, were Eli, who for many years was at the head of what is now the Frank Miller Lumber Co., and Dwight who was a city sheriff and prominent in politics here for many years. Mr. Thompson never held public office. His funeral arrangements , have not been completed.Â
His brother, City Sheriff Dwight Thompson, died at 10:30 am March 6, 1915, suddenly at the Wilson house where he had been stopping the last few days. The evening before he appeared to be in good health. He was the 2nd son of Eli Thompson. Born in Bridgeport. He was athletic and opened up a sporting resort on Houston St. near Broadway. He married Hattie Mallory, whose father was prominent in New Milford. They were married for 10 years until her death. He then married Annie Ludford. He was elected Constable on the Democratic ticket. No children. Age 58.
THOMPSON.-At Bridgeport, Conn. March 11, 1915, DAVID W. THOMPSON aged 84 years and 11 days. Funeral services will be held at his late residence, 416 Waldemere Ave., Bridgeport, on Monday, March 15, at three o’clock pm. Burial in Mountain Grove Cemetery.
A Research Guide to the Genealogy of the Barnum/Barnam/Barnham Family Worldwide
AncientFaces - Family History Photos
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