From The Conversation · Jack Daly · · 1m
Feejee Mermaid's Evolutionary Myth
A Feejee Mermaid exhibit in Colorado reveals how a 19th-century hoax sparked 19th-century debates about evolution.
In brief
A Feejee Mermaid exhibit in Colorado reveals how a 19th-century hoax sparked 19th-century debates about evolution. A Feejee Mermaid replica at Denver Museum shows how a 19th-century American hoax inspired scientific and mythological discussions. Originally reported by The Conversation.
Feejee Mermaid Exhibit
A Feejee Mermaid replica is displayed at Denver Museum of Nature and Science.
Historical Origins
Feejee Mermaids originated in Japan and the East Indies over 400 years ago.
P.T. Barnum's Hoax
P.T. Barnum displayed a Feejee Mermaid as a hoax in New York City in 1842.
Barnum's Scheme
Barnum used fake letters and pamphlets to create a myth about a mermaid skeleton.
Public Reaction
Visitors found Barnum's mermaid grotesque and described it as a dried-up, dying creature.
Evolutionary Debate
The Feejee Mermaid sparked debates about whether it was a missing link in evolution.
Modern Significance
The Feejee Mermaid remains a symbol of how folklore and science intersected in 19th-century America.
What to remember
A Feejee Mermaid replica at Denver Museum shows how a 19th-century American hoax inspired scientific and mythological discussions.
