6 Fascinating Facts About Real-Life Freak Shows of the Past

The history of freak shows can be dated through Victorian-era Europe filled with larger-than-life characters that basically created a whole story filled with drama to promote themselves — which is an art form in itself. Tragic life stories or overcoming enormous challenges created the tales that heightened the characters' followings, building hype for the shows and boosting excitement during shows.

During the late 1800s, just about everyone was mystified and amazed by unique oddities, which drew crowds. Obviously naturally curious, it was a time period that pushed freak shows into the public eye, enticing both interested observers and medical professionals to check out the unexplained. And it wasn't abnormal for performers of all ages to take the stage.

Traditional freak shows drew crowds of all kinds, and entry fees varied according to the type of act that was being featured. And everyone was allowed to come and see the entertainment, with some delicate shows left only for men. And in 19th-century France, there were shows that were banned from women for fear that the mere sight of performers could cause women to bear children with oddities.

It wasn't until the early 1900s that circuses started highlighting freaks alongside traditional shows. Barnum & Bailey Circus paved the way, promoting curiosities such as the Feejee mermaid (which was a hoax) and General Tom Thumb, a little person who gained a huge following.

Working as a team, the showmen and acts would split all the profits, but with the showmen being responsible for renting areas, heating, and lighting, all monies given to the performers went straight in their pockets. Surprisingly, most freaks were better off than many who came to see their shows.

The main player and biggest part of any freak show was the showman. Along with being the ringleader of the acts, he had to create a larger-than-life persona that enticed people without revealing too much about what was to come. The showman often also had a talent that was exciting, providing just enough of a thrill to get the crowd charged up for the rest of the show.