The Stories Behind These Iconic Photos

During the 1930s, Martin Joe Laurello was known around the country as The Human Owl. As his name suggests, Laurello was known for his incredible ability to rotate his head 180 degrees. No one knew the secrets to his ability, but word has it he practiced it for years before accomplishing this trick, and he was born with a slightly bent spine, which made this trick possible.

Laurello performed in circuses around the country under the names Bobby the Boy with the Revolving Head and The Human Owl. Sometimes he’d include trained dogs or cats in his tricks, and during his performances, he’d rotate his head and wow the crowds.