The Remarkable Life of Myrtle Corbin: The ‘Four-Legged Girl from Texas’

Myrtle Corbin, born on May 12, 1868, in Lincoln County, Tennessee, captivated the world with her extraordinary physical condition and remarkable life story. Known as the “Four-Legged Girl from Texas,” Myrtle’s unique anatomy and her journey through life serve as a testament to resilience and adaptability in the face of societal challenges.

Early Life and Unique Condition

Myrtle was born into a struggling farming family, and her birth was anything but ordinary. From the waist down, she had a rare condition known as dipygus, which resulted in two separate pelvises and four legs. While her upper body appeared typical, the lower half presented a striking anomaly that would define her life. Medical professionals were initially baffled, and local newspapers quickly picked up the story, drawing attention to the healthy infant with an unusual physical trait.

Her father, William H. Corbin, a former soldier, recognized the potential for financial gain from Myrtle’s condition. At just one month old, he began exhibiting her to curious neighbors, charging a dime for a glimpse. This early decision, while controversial by today’s standards, was framed by the Corbin family as a means to secure Myrtle’s future education and well-being.

Rise to Fame

As Myrtle grew, her story spread beyond the confines of Lincoln County. Her father capitalized on her uniqueness, promoting her through newspaper advertisements. The family eventually settled in Blount County, Tennessee, but Myrtle’s exhibitions took her across the country. Audiences were fascinated by her ability to move her inner legs, albeit weakly, and she often dressed them in matching stockings and shoes to create a sense of symmetry.

By the age of 14, Myrtle caught the attention of the famous showman P.T. Barnum, who was known for his controversial museum of curiosities. Barnum had previously showcased other oddities, including the infamous “Fiji mermaid.” Myrtle’s act quickly became a crowd favorite, earning her a substantial wage of $250 per week, a remarkable sum for a young performer in the late 19th century.

Personal Life and Challenges

Despite her success in the sideshow circuit, Myrtle’s life was not without its challenges. The constant scrutiny and objectification she faced as a performer took a toll on her mental well-being. However, her life took a significant turn when she fell in love with James C. Bicknell, a medical student. Their relationship blossomed, and they married on June 12, 1886, in Blount County.

Myrtle’s marriage marked a new chapter in her life, as she stepped back from the spotlight to focus on her family. Shortly after their wedding, she discovered she was pregnant, a revelation that surprised her given her unique anatomy. Doctors informed her that she could potentially conceive from both sides, a fact that would later prove true. However, her first pregnancy was fraught with complications, leading to a recommendation for an abortion to save her life.

Despite this traumatic experience, Myrtle and James went on to have eight children, although only four survived beyond infancy. The couple navigated the complexities of parenthood, with Myrtle’s unique condition adding an additional layer of challenge.

Return to the Stage

After raising her children in Johnson County, Texas, Myrtle returned to the world of entertainment when her children grew older. This time, she performed with the Ringling Brothers and at Coney Island, commanding a weekly wage of $450. Her return to the stage was marked by a newfound confidence, as she embraced her identity as both a performer and a mother.

Myrtle’s life was a blend of triumphs and tribulations, reflecting the societal attitudes of her time. While she faced discrimination and objectification, she also broke barriers, proving that a woman with a severe physical handicap could lead a successful career and a fulfilling family life.

Legacy and Death

Myrtle Corbin passed away on May 6, 1928, at the age of 59, due to a skin infection on one of her legs. Her obituary in The Southern Democrat highlighted her upbringing in the Royal community and noted that many locals remembered her as a polite girl who simply happened to have four legs.

Myrtle’s life story serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. She navigated the complexities of fame, motherhood, and societal expectations, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire. As noted by author Robin Sterling in Tales of Old Blount County, Myrtle Corbin was proof that even in the 19th century, a woman with a severe handicap could achieve success and happiness.

Conclusion

Myrtle Corbin’s extraordinary life challenges conventional narratives about disability and societal acceptance. Her journey from a small-town girl to a celebrated performer illustrates the complexities of identity and the human experience. Myrtle’s story remains a poignant reminder of the strength found in diversity and the importance of embracing one’s uniqueness.