The Story of the "Pony Man" by Robert Huddleston

Just a hundred years ago, it was incredibly difficult for a person with physical disabilities to find themselves in life. Disabled people could rely either on their loved ones, who were not always ready to feed, water and clothe them, or on work in the circus. Very often their lives ended early and tragically. But there were also exceptions. "Pony Man" Robert Huddleston lived a long and, according to him, a happy life.

Robert Huddleston was born in Missouri in 1895 to a family of farmers. He had a congenital defect of the knee and elbow joints - they were turned outward. In addition, Robert's legs were very short. Because of his illness, he could only walk on all fours. Despite this, Huddleston tried to lead a normal life - he played with children, learned to swim and helped his parents with hard farm work.

At first, Robert performed simple household chores. But when he grew up, he got involved in serious work. He milked cows, helped his father at the sawmill, and in winter he harnessed himself to a sleigh and transported tree trunks from the forest to the farm. These loads made him incredibly strong and hardy. Neighbors called Huddleston "pony man", but he was not offended. Robert was generally a positive and very friendly person.

Once, when Robert and his father were on their farm business at the fair, an unusual guy was noticed by Tom Mix, the owner of the tent circus. He had a troupe typical of that time, which, in addition to trainers, clowns and acrobats, included people with all kinds of physical anomalies. Mix suggested that Robert try himself as an artist, and he agreed.

For the first time Huddleston performed before the public at the carnival in Texas. He demonstrated miracles of strength, flexibility and endurance, flavored with a wonderful sense of humor. The audience was fascinated by the "pony man" and called him for an encore. Thus began Robert's long and fruitful career in the circus. With the actors of Tom Mix, he traveled all over the United States, went on tour in Canada and Mexico.

In his speeches, Huddleston tried to be original. He did not want to be perceived simply as a curiosity. The artist came up with new tricks, performed in complex numbers with other artists and constantly joked with the audience. His signature number was throwing his legs over his shoulder, which greatly amused the audience. Robert worked in the circus for 36 years and during this time he made good savings.

Robert Huddleston loved people and they loved him back. He was an optimist and did not complex at all because of his shortcomings. He never had a family, but there were always friends around, and his favorite work did not let him get bored. In an interview, the American always said that he was completely happy and satisfied with life. Robert Huddleston died at the age of 75, shortly after ending his circus career.

But the stories of freak show artists rarely have happy endings. An example is the tragic story of the "fairy sister" Lucia Zarate.