A Glimpse into the Past
In many ways, we’ve come a long way as a society by 2022. While some aspects of the past hold a nostalgic charm, other elements, like 19th-century “freak shows,” remind us of darker times. These shows were a common form of entertainment, showcasing people with unusual physical traits, such as bearded women and conjoined twins.
The Life of Mary Ann Bevan
Mary Ann Bevan was one of these individuals. Her life, marked by struggle and resilience, earned her the title of “Ugliest Woman in the World.” Her story is a poignant reminder of the importance of compassion and respect for all people.
Born Mary Ann Webster on December 20, 1874, in Plaistow, East London, she grew up as one of eight children in a working-class family. Her early years were typical for the time, filled with the hustle and bustle of a large family. Unlike her brothers, who were sent to work to support the family, Mary Ann pursued an education. She graduated from medical school and began working as a nurse in 1894.
Love and Loss
Mary Ann was a beautiful young woman with delicate features. In 1902, she married Thomas Bevan, and together they had four children. Life seemed promising, but tragedy struck when Thomas died of a stroke after 14 years of marriage. Left to raise her children alone, Mary Ann faced another challenge—her health began to deteriorate.
The Onset of Acromegaly
Shortly after her marriage, Mary Ann started experiencing symptoms of acromegaly, a condition caused by the overproduction of growth hormone. This rare disease led to the enlargement of her bones and tissues, drastically altering her appearance. Her face became broader and more masculine, a transformation that made it difficult for her to find work.
A Desperate Choice
Struggling to support her children, Mary Ann came across an advertisement seeking the “Ugliest Woman.” Desperate, she applied. Claude Bartram, an agent for Barnum and Bailey Circus, recognized something special in Mary Ann. Despite her reluctance, she accepted the job to provide for her family.
Life as a Circus Attraction
In 1920, Mary Ann traveled to New York and quickly became a sensation at Coney Island Circus. Despite being subjected to ridicule and exploitation, she earned a significant income—enough to send her children to boarding school in England. Though she faced immense hardship, Mary Ann’s love for her children kept her going.
Legacy and Final Days
Mary Ann’s story is a testament to her strength and selflessness. She worked tirelessly to ensure a better future for her children, sacrificing her own comfort and dignity. She returned to Europe briefly but spent most of her remaining years in New York. Mary Ann passed away in 1933 at the age of 59. Her children honored her wish to be buried in her native England, and she rests in Ladywell and Brockley Cemetery in South London.
Conclusion
Mary Ann Bevan’s life reminds us of the importance of empathy and respect. Her determination to care for her family, despite the cruel circumstances, shows the true meaning of love and sacrifice. Rest in peace, Mary Ann—you truly deserve it.
