The Humbugs of the World – P.T. Barnum – 1866 | Occult, Witchcraft, Vampires

P.T. Barnum’s The Humbugs of the World, published in 1866 by Carleton, collects hoaxes, frauds, impostors, and curiosities across centuries. Barnum names false prophets, witches in modern Europe, moon hoaxes, and demonology. One account pits Colt pistols against hobgoblins; another recounts spells, curses, and supposed vampire sightings. The material ranges from folklore to spiritualism, touching on haunted houses, diviners, and traveling mystics. The text reflects its era’s appetite for spectacle and skepticism. This is the first edition.

Bibliographic Details

• Title: The Humbugs of the World: An Account of Humbugs, Delusions, Impositions, Quackeries, Deceits and Deceivers, Generally, in All Ages
• Author(s): P.T. Barnum
• Publisher: New York, Carleton
• Edition: First Edition, 1866
• Format: Duodecimo (12mo), single volume
• Binding: Green textured cloth boards with gilt titling
• Size:  7.5 x 5.25 in (19 x 13.5 cm)
• Collation: x, 11-424, [8] pp
• Contents Include:
  • Stories of Haunted Houses
  • Colt’s Pistols Versus Hobgoblins
  • False Prophets & Moon Hoaxes
  • Magic, Sorcery Spells, and Demonology
  • Witches in Europe & Modern Witchcraft Accounts
  • Vampire Legends & Devil’s Curses
• Provenance: Handwritten signature of Chas. R. Sumner

Condition:

Good condition. Green cloth binding shows surface rubbing along edges and spine. Fabric of rear hinge is fraying through, though the joining is still secure and functional. Gilt title remains legible. Interior complete, with a secure and tight text block. Clean aside from ownership inscription.

Why Collect This?

• Reflects the public’s fascination with hoaxes and the occult

• Suitable for collectors of fringe Americana
• Written by famed circus master

Item Number: # 28810