RPPC 1940s vintage, genuine, original and authentic, autographed.
Rare postcard.
Real photo postcard of Frances Belle O'Connor SIGNED by Ms. O'Connor.
3.5 x 5.5 inches with border. EKC postcard photo paper. It is signed on the reverse.
She autographed her publicity postcards, writing in beautiful penmanship holding the pen with her toes.
This RPPC is in good vintage condition. Light surface scuffs, some silvering in dark areas,
a 1/4 inch tear with some wrinkles. Little corner and edge wear, some discolorations on reverse.
Not postally used.
The last two photos show more detailed condition. No surprises!
Please inspect the photos carefully!
Thank you for your visit.
Please do your own research, although I have no doubt regarding the authenticity of this autographed card.
She worked firstly with AI G Circus and then from the mid-1920s to the mid-1940s with Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey travelling circuses.
O'Connor appeared in the 1932 pre-code cult film classic Freaks, opposite Martha Morris (1902-1937), (who was also born without arms, and shortened legs), directed and produced by Tod Browning. The film revolves around a group of individuals with physical deformities, predominantly played by real life freak show performers. In the film she would demonstrate how she used her feet to perform everyday buy activities, with an almost ballerina style grace. She also did knitting and sewing with her feet as a hobby.
Frances Belle O'Connor (September 8, 1914 - January 30, 1982) was born in Granite Falls, Minnesota.
She was born entirely without arms, and made her living by appearing in various circus sideshows
as the armless wonder or the living Venus de Milo.
She would perform various tricks, such as eating, drinking and smoking a cigarette, all using her feet in place of the missing hands.
She also appeared in the controversial 1932 film, Freaks, directed by Tod Browning, in which a number of real people with physical abnormalities played themselves or other characters.
O'Connor never married, although it was said that she was never short of admirers.
She died in relative obscurity in Long Beach, California in 1982.
Wikipedia references
Product code: Frances Belle O'Connor, circus performer, RPPC buy autographed 1940s vintage