BRIDGEPORT – Facing a critical funding gap, the Barnum Museum’s executive director recently put out the call for help and local philanthropists answered to tune of $4,500 in five days.
The nonprofit museum named after Bridgeport’s ultimate showman and America’s circus “tycoon” P.T. Barnum was in need of money to make up for a $7,000 funding gap, according to a letter sent on Friday, Feb. 13 by Kathy Maher, the museum’s executive director. The letter emailed to donors and friends of the museum read: “Right now, the team at the Museum is working to close a $7,000 funding gap to cover essential costs that keep the Museum cared for, active, and serving the community – funds that ensure stability, continuity and momentum.”
Then by Wednesday, Feb. 18 Maher sent out another email with much better news.
“Thanks to the generosity of our community, the Barnum Museum is building real momentum,” she wrote. “Together, we have raised $4,500 toward our $7,000 goal, and we are deeply grateful to everyone who has already stepped forward.
“Now, we have an exciting opportunity to carry this effort over the finish line. A generous donor has offered a $2,500 matching gift, meaning every contribution made now will be matched dollar for dollar, doubling its impact and helping us reach – and potentially exceed – our goal.”
The 133-year-old museum, which is on the National Register of Historic Landmarks, is in the middle of an on-again, off-again restoration that has faced such hurdles as an F-1 tornado, a super storm, boiler explosion and the belt-tightening of federal cultural agencies.
So far, the museum has raised more than $14 million for the first two phases of the restoration: historic preservation, East Wall and dome stabilization and exterior rehabilitation. The next two phases will address interior design and interior rehabilitation. The museum’s capital campaign goal is $26 million. Additionally, the museum has received a $2 million from the Community Investment Fund (CIF) 2030 – Round Six grant.
That would support critical infrastructure, safety, accessibility, and historic preservation improvements for the 1893 landmark. The project includes upgrades to fire suppression systems, climate control, plumbing, lighting, building repairs, and a new ADA-compliant elevator.
“The Barnum Museum is more than a building,” Maher said in the original letter to donors. “It exists because of our community’s belief in what we do, and it endures because people like you choose to invest in history, culture, and shared experiences that enrich our lives and help carry our mission of instructive entertainment forward.”
Maher listed three main reasons for donors to give during this campaign:
- The collection is protected and responsibly maintained.
- Educational programs continue without interruption.
- The museum remains a place for learning, discovery, and connection.
For information about giving to the Barnum Museum, go to the website.
