In the 19th century, the world was a vastly different place. “Freak shows” were a common form of entertainment, and people with disabilities were often treated with disrespect. It was during this time that Mary Ann Bevan’s story began, a tale of love, loss, and resilience.
Born on December 20, 1874, in East London, Mary Ann grew up to become a respected nurse and a beautiful woman with a promising future. She met the love of her life, Thomas Bevan, and they had four children together. However, their happiness was short-lived, as Thomas passed away, leaving Mary heartbroken and alone to care for their children.
As she struggled to make ends meet, Mary began to experience strange symptoms. Her face started to change, and she suffered from a condition that would later be diagnosed as acromegaly, a hormonal disorder that causes excessive growth hormone production. This condition left her disfigured and unable to work as a nurse.
Desperate to provide for her children, Mary responded to an ad seeking the “ugliest woman” for a circus act. Despite her initial reservations, she saw this as an opportunity to earn a living and give her children a better life. Mary’s story soon spread, and she became a popular attraction at the Dreamland Circus in Coney Island, New York.
However, Mary’s life took a turn when a doctor named Harvey Cushing discovered her condition. He wrote about her story, highlighting the tragic circumstances that had led her to the circus. Despite the challenges she faced, Mary continued to work at the circus, earning a small fortune that enabled her to send her children to boarding school in England.
Mary Ann Bevan’s story is a testament to the unwavering love of a mother for her children. She endured immense hardship and sacrifice, but her determination to provide for her family never wavered. Mary passed away at the age of 59, but her legacy lives on as a reminder of the power of love and resilience.
