Figure 162 represents a most curious case of a dwarf named Carrie Akers, who, though only 34 inches tall, weighed 309 pounds.
In recent years several dwarfs have commanded the popular attention, but none so much as "General Tom Thumb," the celebrated dwarf of Barnum's Circus.

Charles Stratton, surnamed "Tom Thumb," was born at Bridgeport, Conn., on January 11, 1832; he was above the normal weight of the new-born.

He ceased growing at about five months, when his height was less than 21 inches.

Barnum, hearing of this phenomenon in his city, engaged him, and he was shown all over the world under his assumed name.

He was presented to Queen Victoria in 1844, and in the following year he was received by the Royal Family in France.