Struggles and Triumphs · Character

Sherwood E. Stratton

The Connecticut father of General Tom Thumb, dragged from Bridgeport into European sightseeing and reluctantly paying francs for dubious battlefield relics.

supporting

Also known as Mr. Stratton, Stratton, Sherwood, poor Stratton, Mr. Sherwood E. Stratton

First appearance: xi general tom thumb in england

As a supporting figure in Struggles and Triumphs, Sherwood E. Stratton is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

Mentioned as part of the dramatic company; Mr.

In the storyIX: The Road to RichesOpen this moment free

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Stratton is the plain-spoken parent who accompanies Barnum and his tiny son across Europe, grumbling at four-in-the-morning departures and "darned old fields of wheat." His wife's gentle prodding—"do try to be like somebody, once in your life"—exposes the domestic friction beneath the tour's glamour. His penny-wise suspicion of the Waterloo boot-sellers gives the early chapters their comic, skeptical counterweight to Barnum's own enthusiasm.

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Character Web

5 connections

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Diverse associates and performers
Barnum's inner circle
Editors and museum associates

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This is the dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak of Barnum’s redemption arc:…

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In the story

Sherwood E. Stratton appears across 7 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

IX: The Road to Riches
Mentioned as part of the dramatic company; Mr. Sothern, a character actor, was also a member.
X: Another Successful Speculation
Father of Charles S. Stratton; brings the child to meet Barnum at the Franklin Hotel.
In France
Accompanies the General as preceptor and translator; the General learns French quickly.
XIII: In Belgium
Father of General Tom Thumb; suffers through the Waterloo excursion, is swindled by a farmer, and falls asleep during a haircut.
XVI: At Home
Father of General Tom Thumb; settles in Bridgeport with a fortune, builds a mansion, and arranges marriages for his daughters.
Other Enterprises
Father of General Tom Thumb; admitted as a partner in the traveling menagerie venture.
Public Lecturing
Not directly mentioned in this chapter; excluded from active check-in.

Chapter companion notes

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See Sherwood E. Stratton in xi general tom thumb in england

See Sherwood E. Stratton in IX: The Road to Riches