Tom Thumb House (Middleborough, Massachusetts)

The Tom Thumb House is a historic house museum located in Middleborough, Massachusetts. It is believed to have been built around 1780, and its unusual name derives from its notably small size. While the precise reasons for its diminutive scale are uncertain, local lore suggests it may have been constructed as a practical joke or as a novelty dwelling.

The house's primary claim to fame is its association with Charles Sherwood Stratton, better known as General Tom Thumb, a celebrated performer under P.T. Barnum. Stratton visited Middleborough on multiple occasions, and legend claims he stayed at the house. However, evidence supporting this assertion is largely anecdotal. Despite the lack of definitive proof of Stratton's residence, the name "Tom Thumb House" has persisted, adding to the house's quirky appeal and attracting tourists.

Today, the Tom Thumb House is maintained as a museum by the Middleborough Historical Association. Exhibits focus on the history of the house itself, local Middleborough history, and the story of General Tom Thumb. Visitors can tour the small interior and learn about the possible origins and uses of the building. The house serves as a tangible link to local folklore and 19th-century entertainment. The Tom Thumb House is a contributing property to the Middleborough Center Historic District.