Daisy and Violet Hilton, English conjoined twins (d. 1969)

Daisy and Violet Hilton: The Extraordinary Lives of Conjoined Twin Entertainers

Daisy and Violet Hilton, born on 5 February 1908, were remarkable English-born conjoined twins whose lives unfolded as captivating entertainers across the globe. From their unusual birth to their eventual legal emancipation and careers in film, their story offers a unique window into the social and medical understanding of conjoined twins in the early 20th century, as well as the world of performance arts.

Early Life and Unique Physiology

The twins entered the world at 18 Riley Road, Brighton, England, on 5 February 1908. Their mother, Kate Skinner, was an unmarried barmaid. Medically classified as ischiopagus conjoined twins, Daisy and Violet were physically joined by their hips and buttocks. While they shared a common blood circulation and were fused at the pelvis, a crucial distinction was that they did not share any major organs. This specific type of conjoining meant they could function largely independently in many aspects, despite their physical connection. Such a birth was, and remains, exceedingly rare, immediately thrusting them into the public eye.

A Life on Stage: From Sideshows to Stardom

Their distinctive physical bond inevitably led them into the world of entertainment, a common, albeit often exploitative, path for individuals with unique physical characteristics during that era. As children, they were first exhibited in Europe, a practice that, while controversial by today's standards, was a prevalent form of public spectacle. Their talent and unique presentation soon propelled them across the Atlantic, where they became prominent figures on the American entertainment circuits throughout the 1920s and 1930s.

Their extensive touring schedule allowed them to share stages with some of the most iconic figures of their time, including the legendary comedian and actor Charlie Chaplin and the renowned entertainer Bob Hope, a testament to their widespread appeal and showmanship.

Film Careers and Cultural Impact

Beyond the stage, Daisy and Violet Hilton left an indelible mark on cinematic history, most notably through their appearances in two significant films:

The Fight for Freedom: Emancipation and Legal Battles

For many years, the twins endured exploitation under the management of their legal guardians, first their initial "owner" Mary Hilton (the midwife who essentially purchased them from their mother) and later the Myers family. This period saw them deprived of much of their earnings and personal freedom. However, a turning point came in the early 1930s. Influenced by advice reportedly given by the famed escape artist and advocate Harry Houdini (who passed away in 1926, meaning his counsel predated their legal action), the twins embarked on a landmark legal battle.

This pursuit for independence culminated in their successful legal emancipation in the early 1930s. This victory granted them control over their own lives and finances, a significant achievement for individuals in their unique circumstances, allowing them to manage their careers and personal affairs independently for the first time.

Public Identity and Nicknames

Throughout their careers, Daisy and Violet were known by a variety of names that reflected their identity, profession, and geographical associations:

Frequently Asked Questions About Daisy and Violet Hilton

What made Daisy and Violet Hilton unique as conjoined twins?
They were ischiopagus conjoined twins, meaning they were joined at the hips and buttocks, sharing blood circulation and a fused pelvis but crucially, no major internal organs. This allowed for more individual movement and function compared to some other types of conjoining.
What were their most famous film appearances?
Daisy and Violet Hilton are best known for starring as themselves in Tod Browning's controversial 1932 film "Freaks" and their semi-autobiographical 1951 feature, "Chained for Life."
How did they gain legal emancipation?
After years of exploitation by their managers, and reportedly influenced by advice from Harry Houdini, Daisy and Violet pursued legal action in the early 1930s. They successfully won their legal emancipation, gaining control over their careers and personal finances.
Where were Daisy and Violet Hilton born?
They were born at 18 Riley Road, Brighton, England, on 5 February 1908.
What types of entertainment did they perform in?
They performed extensively across various entertainment circuits, including European exhibitions as children, and later American sideshows, vaudeville, and burlesque shows, showcasing their singing and dancing talents alongside their unique physical presentation.