Annie Jones

Annie Jones

Name	Annie Jones
Birth name
Birth date	July 14, 1865
Birth place	Marion, Virginia, United States
Death date	October 22, 1902
Death place	Brooklyn, New York, United States
Alma mater
Occupation
Years active
Organization
Known for	Being a famous "Bearded Lady" in P.T. Barnum's circus
Notable works
Spouse(s)
Website

Annie Jones (July 14, 1865 – October 22, 1902) was a renowned American sideshow performer, known for her role as the "Bearded Lady" in P.T. Barnum's circus. Her life and career were emblematic of the 19th-century fascination with physical anomalies and the burgeoning entertainment industry.

Early Life

Annie Jones was born in Marion, Virginia, to parents who were reportedly of normal appearance. From a young age, Annie exhibited a condition known as hirsutism, characterized by excessive hair growth. By the time she was nine months old, she had a full beard, which led to her being exhibited as a curiosity.

Career

Annie's career began when she was just a child. Her parents took her to P.T. Barnum, who was known for his "freak shows" and exhibitions of human curiosities. Barnum was impressed by Annie's unique appearance and offered her parents a contract. She became one of the star attractions of Barnum's circus, billed as the "Infant Esau" and later as the "Bearded Lady."

Throughout her career, Annie was known not only for her beard but also for her poise and intelligence. She was a talented musician and often played the mandolin during her performances. Annie traveled extensively with Barnum's circus, gaining fame and notoriety across the United States and Europe.

Personal Life

Annie Jones married twice during her lifetime. Her first marriage was to Richard Elliot, a sideshow "barker" or announcer, but the marriage ended in divorce. She later married William Donovan, who was also involved in the circus industry.

Despite her fame, Annie faced challenges due to her appearance. She was often subjected to public scrutiny and had to navigate the complexities of being a woman with a visible difference in a society that valued conventional beauty standards.

Death and Legacy

Annie Jones passed away on October 22, 1902, in Brooklyn, New York, at the age of 37. Her life and career left a lasting impact on the world of entertainment and the perception of physical differences. She is remembered as a pioneer among sideshow performers and as a symbol of resilience and individuality.

Also see

• P.T. Barnum
• Freak show
• Hirsutism
• Circus
• Bearded Lady