Myrtle Cobin led a remarkable life marked by obstacles but still managed to carve her own successful path as a wealthy professional and dedicated mother. Born on May 12, 1868, into a struggling farming family, Myrtle’s physical uniqueness surprised her parents and doctors. While her upper body looked typical, from the waist down, her body doubled in curious ways, boasting two pelvises and four legs, earning her the nickname ‘Four-Legged Girl from Texas.’
Prompting curiosity and speculation, doctors investigated the reason behind Myrtle’s unusual condition as her story captured local attention. Seizing the opportunity, Myrtle’s father, William H. Corbin, recognized the potential for profit in showcasing his daughter. He began exhibiting her at just one month old, charging neighbors to glimpse the extraordinary child.
Despite the controversial decision, William and Nancy, Myrtle’s parents, claimed the earnings would fund her education and future success. Myrtle’s uniqueness garnered widespread interest, leading to her nationwide exhibition at fairs and side shows during her childhood, captivating audiences with her extraordinary physical attributes.
Myrtle’s secondary pair of legs, with three toes on each foot, although less developed, remained functional. She concealed them with matching stockings and shoes, creating a visually striking symmetry. Growing older, her differences became more pronounced, including menstruating from both uteruses, hinting at the possibility of pregnancy from both sides.
At the age of 14, Myrtle joined P.T. Barnum’s museum as a popular attraction, earning a substantial weekly wage. However, the scrutiny and intrusion of circus life took a toll on her. Her life took a new turn when she fell in love with medical student James C. Bicknell, leading to their marriage and her retirement from the stage.
Despite initial concerns about suitors after her wealth, James proved genuine, and they started a family. Myrtle’s pregnancy on her left side was unexpected, leading to a complex situation requiring an abortion for her safety. Despite the ordeal, she and James welcomed more children, fulfilling predictions of pregnancies on both sides, although only four siblings survived infancy.
After a period of private family life, Myrtle returned to showbiz, commanding a significant wage for appearances. Eventually, she retired comfortably but tragically passed away at the age of 59 due to a skin infection on one of her legs. Remembered fondly in her community, Myrtle’s life serves as a testament to overcoming challenges and achieving success as a wife, mother, and career woman in the 19th century.