[2] In 1865, Daniel Witter bought 160 acres southwest of Denver, the first in a series of land deals in the development and promotion of Villa Park.

Envisioned as a vast development with unique features such as curving streets, Witter's dream of a home for Denver's wealthy was never realized.

Barnum's involvement with his namesake's development has become part of Denver folklore, especially in the durable legend of the showman's plan to establish a winter home for his circus in the city.

In fact, Barnum never wintered his animals anywhere other than Connecticut or Florida, and the entertainment entrepreneur made just four documented trips to Colorado.

[3] The Barnum, Colorado, post office operated from February 5, 1892, until June 30, 1901.