The fascinating and tragic story of Mary Ann Bevan
Mary Ann Bevan, born on December 20, 1874, in East London, became known as “the ugliest woman in the world” due to a severe case of acromegaly, a hormonal disorder that caused her facial features to change drastically. Initially a respected nurse and mother of four, her life took a tragic turn when her husband, Thomas, died after 14 years of marriage. Struggling to provide for her children, Mary responded to an ad seeking the “ugliest woman” for a circus show, seeing it as her only option to support her family.
Despite her initial reluctance, she earned £10 a week and became a popular attraction at the Dreamland Circus in Coney Island, where her story garnered attention from medical professionals. Neurosurgeon Harvey Cushing recognized her condition and advocated for her, revealing the tragic reality behind her appearance.
Mary Ann spent years in the circus, earning enough to send her children to boarding school in England. She passed away at 59, with her children honoring her wish to be buried in South London. Her story is a poignant testament to a mother’s love and resilience in the face of adversity.
