Seven Sutherland Sisters

The Seven Sutherland Sisters were a group of American women known for their long hair and their performances in a family-owned and operated Vaudeville and circus act during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The sisters, Sarah, Victoria, Isabella, Grace, Naomi, Dora, and Mary Sutherland, hailed from Cambria, New York, and gained fame for their combined hair length of over 37 feet, a feature that was highly unusual and admired at the time. Their success not only came from their performances but also from the sale of a hair growth tonic, which they claimed was the secret behind their long hair.

Background

The Sutherland family consisted of Fletcher and Mary Sutherland, who had a total of eleven children, with the seven sisters being the most notable due to their long hair. The family capitalized on the sisters' unique feature by entering the entertainment industry, a move that was both innovative and necessary for their financial survival.

Career

The Seven Sutherland Sisters' act was a part of the larger Barnum & Bailey Circus, where they showcased their hair and performed musical numbers. Their act was a significant draw for the circus, attracting audiences from across the United States. The sisters' fame was not limited to their performances; they also became early pioneers in the marketing of beauty products, specifically their hair tonic, which they sold to the public with great success.

Hair Tonic Business

The hair tonic, marketed under the name "The Seven Sutherland Sisters' Hair Grower," was advertised as a miraculous solution for hair growth and health. The sisters claimed that their long hair was due to the regular use of this tonic, a marketing strategy that proved to be highly effective. The product became a household name, and its sales provided the family with substantial income.

Legacy

The legacy of the Seven Sutherland Sisters extends beyond their performances and entrepreneurial success. They are remembered as symbols of the Victorian era's fascination with beauty and femininity. The sisters challenged societal norms by turning their unique physical attributes into a source of income and fame, a testament to their ingenuity and business acumen.

Decline and Later Years

As fashion and societal norms evolved, the public's fascination with extremely long hair waned. The sisters' popularity declined, and with it, the sales of their hair tonic. The family faced financial difficulties, and their story faded from public memory. Today, the Seven Sutherland Sisters are often cited in discussions about the history of beauty standards and the entertainment industry.