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The bearded lady: Miss Annie Jones 1897
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The bearded lady: Miss Annie Jones 1897
Annie Jones Elliot (1865 - 1902), a " freak" and part of the " Greatest Show on Earth". The accompanying article describes her as " in every respect the best of the " freaks" in the show" as she was reportedly conventionally attractive asside from her facial hair. Miss Jones covered her beard with a black handkerchief to avoid unwanted attention and is photographed in a white dress and hat.
1897
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Media ID 23268750
© Illustrated London News Ltd/Mary Evans
1897 Annie Attraction Barnum Barnums Bearded Circus Curiosities Curiosity Earth Elliot Facial Females Freak Freaks Greatest Hairy Human Jones Moustache Oddities Showman Toured Miss Paranormal
EDITORS COMMENTS
Miss Annie Jones, born Annie Elliot in 1865, was a remarkable woman who defied societal norms and captivated audiences as a 'freak' in the renowned "Greatest Show on Earth" during the late 1800s. Despite being an extraordinary figure due to her facial hair, she was described as the "best of the freaks" in the show, showcasing her conventionally attractive features alongside her unique trait. To avoid unwanted attention, Miss Jones would cover her beard with a black handkerchief. In this striking photograph from 1897, Miss Jones is depicted in a white dress and hat, exuding an air of elegance and mystery. Her facial hair, though hidden, adds an intriguing layer to her appearance. The image captures the essence of the curiosity and fascination that surrounded human oddities during the 1890s. Showmen like P.T. Barnum and the various circuses played a significant role in popularizing these exhibitions of human oddities. The public's fascination with the paranormal and the unusual led to the rise of the 'freak' industry, where individuals like Miss Jones toured the country, showcasing their unique attributes to wide-eyed audiences. This photograph serves as a testament to the complexities of human nature and the enduring allure of the extraordinary. Miss Jones, with her hidden beard, challenges our perceptions of beauty and normality, inviting us to question the boundaries of what is considered 'normal' and 'acceptable.' Her story is a reminder that the human experience is rich and diverse, filled with intriguing characters and captivating stories.
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