This portrait of Barnum late in his life is how many people would have known him. In the 1870s and 1880s he often gave lectures promoting temperance, and occasionally got involved in political issues. For instance, he promoted the development of his hometown of Bridgeport, Connecticut.
He built a lavish mansion in Connecticut, which was famous enough that postcards and stereoscopic cards were printed of it.
And perhaps the most surprising aspect of Barnum's astonishing career is that he was elected mayor of Bridgeport in 1875. During his one-year term as mayor he endeavored to bring water and gas service, which had been considered luxuries for the wealthy, to all city residents.