Let’s not get to offended. Times were different and if the majority of them didn’t have the sideshows they wouldn’t have had any other means to get by. And many were upset bc of that when they shut them down. Many were happy and well cared. Like I said it was a different time
I seen Schlitzie at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto in 1967 o r 1968.He had such a gentle vibe and seemed to be content.I was glad to hear that he was taken care of in his later years.And he always had a smile.The world would be a greater place if we followed his example...........RIP Schlitzie............and ty for posting this...................................PEACE
Dave smith I also saw him at the Ex. He was there a number of years along with other “Acts”. I am glad to know that he is still remembered. As a side note he had a penchant for spitting at people that made derogatory remarks about him, so who was the stupid one. LOL.
That was really great! I watched 'Freaks' when I was a kid and was fascinated by the actors and wondered what kind of lives they must have led. I like that you didn't judge Schlitzie's birth family, too, and were so balanced about how the freak show thing was a sort of double-edged sword. I'm glad that he seemed to live a full life with good people around him. I think you did this person justice. Thank you for this video!
Beautifully done. I especially liked that you did it in black and white. It is great that you told of his love for performing and how important it was to his well-being. Next time I'm in Los Angeles I will spruce up his headstone.
You got that right Snicker.The shell tower and exhibition stadium(where I seen every big group of the day for free are gone...I worked for CPI who staged the shows)and the hockey hall of fame is also gone.I also orked for Conklin when they ran just about everything during the ex.But on the bright side I did see Steppenwolf ther in 2017.John Kay(lead singer talked a bit about working at the ex as a youth.Peace Snick.@Snickersbite
Presumptuous but yes, happy for his happiness.. Just hhh even if someone wrote a documentary on one's life, you still couldn't know one's experience based on mere appearances.
It's true Franklin, but I think as the end was near his life was not as good as it was when he was younger. But he did have a better life than a lot of us that live today so that I am glad for. He deserved only the best for the condition he lived with and the type of work he did. I am glad people treated him with respect and were nice to him.
@@GryanCredreri-ic7kt Well shoot.. I am only 5'11.. I can wear basketball shoes and become 6'1 I guess? It's not a big deal to me anymore anyway. I don't find women my age (early 40s) attractive, and they all have kids so no thank you. I would rather be celibate than deal with anyone's kids.
Beautiful tribute to Schlitzie. As a clown I recognize the person in front of me, not as a freak, but as an individual. God bless you Wayne for a great tribute to a wonderful person who gladdened the hearts of many a generation. RIP Schlitzie God bless you.
I was born a siamese twin, attached at the legs, and my brother was still born. I went thru some very painful surgeries about 30 of them before I was 5. I was left with an artificial limb and a limp from having very little right hip. I only say this because I can understand to a small degree what these different people must have felt being stared at and laughed at sometimes. I sometimes wonder if Schlitzie's mental impairment was a blessing, he lived life just being himself and loving everyone he met. I would love to find out his history before show business, but it seems many have tried and failed. I guess the fact that several people were involved in giving me a great life, and that is all that really matters.
"I sometimes wonder if Schlitzie's mental impairment was a blessing" ...I can speak to this a little bit. I survived a brain injury a few years back. For the first 5 1/2 months I was not completely lucid. I went to doctors and therapies, the whole time in a dreamlike state, with no real concept of passing time. Like in a dream, I knew something was very wrong, but could not focus enough to be alarmed about it. I would say that it absolutely was a blessing. If I had to adjust to my new life, AND fully understand the meaning, it would have been far too overwhelming, hell, tying my shoes was overwhelming. It's years later, and things are way better, but if I had not recovered so much, I'd rather have stayed half-aware.
Steven Hair Thanks for sharing. I feel like a freak because I was raised a Jehovah's Witnesse. We stood out but not as much as you did I'm sure. I hope all is well for you and yours.
This videos demonstrates the importance of community and having a network of friends. These days people are too closed off from each other afraid the other person will say something or do something. We hardly talk to neighbors anymore or anyone really outside of work.
It is actually quite rare for someone with Microcephaly to live as long as Schlitzie did many do not live past 30.I think being in a side show was a positive experience not a life of exploitation as many would assume.Schlitzie was strange looking but had such a sweet nature that really came through in Freaks....he was remarkable! who entertained countless people in his day! So glad you honored him and his life by making this video!
@@rustneversleeps85 no different then people who are "differently abled"are treated in society! Schlitze had a sort of family of other freaks looking out for him!
@@rustneversleeps85 Hr probably had a better life with the circus than he would have had on the outside as he would have probably been put in some institution
I don't know why that video suddenly popped up in my recommendations, but I'm glad it did. I feared the worst, but you brought out the best. Respect and thanks.
Ordinosaurs & retro computers - Same here. It was a completely random recommendation, but I'm certainly glad I watched it. Mr. Keyser did an incredibly beautiful and touching tribute to Schlitzie.
I don't have even the slightest idea where the recommendation came from either but like the others have said, I'm glad that I was blessed to see this today. I once Pastored a country church where an individual much like Schlitzie would sometimes attend. He had parents who, though they loved him dearly , we're unable to get him the help he needed. Siblings or "friends" had taught him to curse, smoke and God only knows what else. One thing I suppose I'll always remember of this man was that regardless of who the pastor was, this man called him God!
I don't know how this video wound up in my recommended list. But it's just what I needed. With all the ugliness I see and hear day in and day out it's easy for me to point my finger at the world and think that I'm not contributing to the ugliness. Truth is, I'm not the most positive person alive and more often than not, I'm a selfish crybaby. Thank you for this video. I've been so numb to emotion and cynical about everything for longer than I can remember. I can't pinpoint the exact reason why, but this video hit a nerve and some of the beautiful comments brought tears to my eyes for the first time in years. Again, Thank you sir.
Your response seems to fit my sentiments exactly tonight. Somehow .....this....as crazy as it may sound was what my soul too needed. Carrying the same feelings you described above also made for proof positive something indeed brought me here. It somehow fed my soul. Greetings and love from NC!
What a nicely presented little documentary. Modern attitudes might make people recoil at the idea of sideshow circuses but those circuses provided a decent income and life to people who would otherwise be locked away and forgotten all about. Despite his severe disabilities, Schlitzie managed to live a full and fun life and he deserves to be remembered for it.
If you go to other countries, they still have freak shows. There are no social programs to take care of people with disabilities in those countries, and they depend on family members to take care of them. If they have no family or are abandoned by their family. They have to survive somehow, and these freak shows provide at least a little income or at least a place to stay.
Yeah oddly enough it wasn't a bad life for a lot of them, there was decent money to be made and they formed tight little communities who were very loyal and took care of each other, the movie Freaks does a pretty good job portraying that although I think it gets a tad exploitative at times.
I thought the same thing. He seemed happy and was making money and had lots of friends. If he didn't have the circus, he would certainly have had a much worse life experience.
Agreed. Joseph Merrick in the 19th century chose to go in a side show as he had no other way of earning money and the other alternative was the workhouse.
Hannibal, some were good and some were bad. Schlitzie enjoyed life, as a "freak" on display, more than he would have hidden away in an institution, forgotten and neglected.
@@DHW256 - very good point, I was about to say the same. In this way this video was an eye-opener. The sideshow world provided a family to Schlitzie, and a loving one at that. The "care" provided at an institution could have been a nightmare in comparison. This is certainly an invitation to re-assess sideshows, which may be too easily condemned by the smug, impulsive, and ultimately judgemental "political correctness" of today.
The regular injustices of the disabled and their families are due to choices made by others. I appreciate your comment as its very true. I also see the perpetual sickness of the majority toward the disabled. A few hold onto compassion even still. Thankful for those who refuse to follow the pack.
I was friends with a gentleman named Verne Langdon. He used to speak to me about Schlitzie. He was so proud that he got to participate in helping get him the grave marker. Thank you very much for this. It always warms my heart when someone like this is remembered with the reverence that his life deserved. I think Schlitzie was the one teaching us and not the other way around. God bless all of you involved.
Yes, it was nice to get to know Schlitzie. His life was such a positive story, seems that if you met him, you loved him.. Thankyou so much for telling his story Wayne that was really well done, my friend.
This is *BY FAR* the best you tube video I have ever seen, and I have seen a lot of you tube videos, including my own mother's memorial video. These freak shows are often criticized as you said, but they gave these people a community in which they could form relationships. A few were abusive, but the abusive ones didn't last long, because there were so many, these people could demand good pay and good working conditions. The fact Schlitzie lived for 70 years says a great deal about how he was cared for. You don't live 70 years if you have a poor diet and poor care. Many people with Schlitzie issues don't live 70 minutes, let alone 70 years. Hell he had a longer than average life for someone born in his generation.
Correct , While, there are some who die within first year of their birth, others even live till 35 or even longer. Care is the key , but there is no proper life expectancy to microcephaly
I won't argue that care isn't important. This disorder comes with other health problems that can greatly shorten life. No matter how well you care for someone like this, they can still die young.
That was absolutely wonderful. I am always fascinated by his story and the stories of other sideshow act. I really appreciate your video. I am a mother of 3 handicapped children who passed away many years ago in their toddler ages. It was not a difficult decision to keep them, but I have a cousin who was not so lucky. If they could not have afforded the round the clock nursing for her daughter, she would have been institutionalized, a choice she agonized over. We judge to quickly, in almost every situation of life. People always say, "I'm sorry." But I don't regret anything about keeping, caring for, loving, and losing our kids. They are my world. I have 4 healthy children now. I wanted to thank you. What a beautiful tribute to tell someone's story, teach with that story, and keep their memory alive. Thank you. 🦋
That is a beautiful tribute to a wonderful entertainer. Your end remarks about sideshows often offering the only chance for earning a living for many disabled folks in those days is so true and very important.
I have been a major fan of Schlitze for many years, after seeing Tod Browning's film. One of my favourites. I found your video very interesting indeed. I have always considered "freaks" to be very special people. Worthy of compassion and respect. You have presented his story with the same. Thank you. Teresa from Ireland
Very moving story. With the carnival, Schlitzie was given the opportunity to celebrate a life of happiness and excitement few of us would know. There he had a family who revered him and protected him and gave him some human affection. That is evident on the smiles and happy demeanor he showed in his pictures. He lived til 70 years of age. That's incredible. Thanks for sharing this wonderful heart warming story.
Wayne, thank you for such a nice portrait of Schlitzie. It was a warm, understanding and compassionate vignette of a very deserving soul. He is in the arms of God now, with all the joy one could ever want for an eternity. You are such a wonderful man for exuding the sensibilities behind the story of Schlitzie who himself was the source of joy and happiness for the many people of his day. We need more stories like this because there is such a widespread famine of the joy and happiness found in the simplest things. Schlitzie was a child of virtue, a virtue that is so uncommon today. Many of his peers who suffered misfortune were also children of virtue and of joy and of happiness. No one should abandon others the way Shlitzie endured and his friends as well. Thank you for such a remarkable video and thank you for demonstrating compassion in a way others should learn from. It all helps for a better world. God bless you !
Schlitzie will always hold a place in my heart. I was so happy to learn Sam Alexander got him and cared for him. I was adopted as well so I know what it feel like to be sad. Thank you Wayne Keyser for posting this beautiful video. You narrating makes it all so special. I will visit from time to time. Thanks again, Imagine ♥
I never had the honor of seeing Schlitzie in person, I have only seen him in the 1932 film. The first time I seen the film 55 years ago it left a lasting impression on me to this day. I am so glad you have made this information available to all. If I am near Roland Heights I will make sure the grave site is kept up, least I can do.
70 years old. Amen. He had a long full life im sure he understood his situation by 70 years old and.....I'm glad to have seen this video. Life is good.
@S C We all have the DNC and Debbie Wasserman Schulz to thank for the rise of the Trump Monster. Thanks for rigging the primary and putting perhaps the only person in America who could actually lose to DONALD MOTHERFUCKING TRUMP at the top of your ticket. lolololololol. Worst. Candidate. EVAR!!!!!1!!!!!
I wonder what happened to shlitzies sister and how her life ended. I assume they were eventualy seperated. But i wonder what became of her..oh and by the way sir this video was well done. With class.
@@watchgoose Iodine deficiency in mother during pregnancy can cause microcephaly. If the mother was deficient in iodine with one, no doubt she was with another.
Very well done and presented. Thank you, Mr. Keyser. I'm glad Schlitzie received such respectful and thorough reporting to let us see an aspect of entertainment most of us only know through hearsay. I remember one or two traveling shows coming into my grandmother's rural area in the late 50's, but of course, my parents wouldn't let a child see such things. (The "Human Oddities" were always out of sight, priced at 25 or 50 cents admission - but my parents always steered away from this part of shows - I think they believed it was not 'nice' to stare at another's misfortunes. In a very strange way, I think there is one regret to the fact that these exhibitions are now prohibited in the US - the shows, even though they made use of disabled people in what seems now to be a humiliating way, DID provide legitimate employment for people like Schlitzie. He, according to your telling, was not overly aware of his disability - but did like interacting with people. Just as predicted by a doctor, when institutionalized and deprived of the diverse interactions with the public made possible side shows, Schlitizie did become more depressed, which led to failing health.
Thank you this was very well done and interesting to find this tribute to him. I remember Schlitzie in his wheelchair with his caretaker. They used to sit outside of the Weird Museum on Hollywood Boulevard where I worked on weekend nights. He would sell his postcards. This was back in 1970. He didn't talk much, but was part of the street scene in those days. May he rest in peace.
Respectful, kind and really very sweet. Thank you for sharing his life with us and thank you for your kindness. The world could use more like you Mr Keyser.
Wonderful narration. The freak show was still a staple of the carnival circuit when I was a boy. The last one I remember seeing was at the Calgary Stampede, my first year of college. I knew about Schlitze growing up, but I learned a great deal from your video. Thank you.
You did a great job at giving a wonderful human being kindness and respect...it is what Schlitzie gave to all! he was great in Freaks...it was a bit sad but it was also heartwarming as well! Miss you Schlitzie!!!!!💖
Thank you for taking the time and interest in presenting these facts and events on the life of someone I have always gotten a warm feeling from whenever I had the opportunity to see him. Whether as a side-show act or even being portrayed as him by others, I have always wondered about how life was for him, and others like him. It makes me happy to know that he, at least, was loved and, as far as I now know, treat kindly. Again, I thank you! This was presented with warmth, humanity and well deserved dignity!! BRAVO. Sir, I commend you!
What a well composed and narrated history. The depth of your analysis regarding his life, and the sociological impact of disability is book worthy. Well done Wayne.
Your video is by far the most in-depth video about Schlitze I’ve yet to find on the internet. Thank you for posting! I think you’re a talented author as well. You were quite entertaining to listen to you.
This was an interesting and informative essay, and considering the scarcity of information about Schlitzie's life, it was a well done narrative. I also appreciated the great care you put into telling Schlitzie's story, you told his story with the kind of sincerity as if he were once your personal friend. Thank you.
Very well spoken Mr. Keyer, both about Schlitzie, his life, medicine, and society. You are wise, insightful, and admirable for speaking to an unfortunate situation.
This was absolutely amazing and I enjoyed the commentary. Thank you for your hard work and dedication, Mr. Keyser! Your video was so well-made and informative.
Just like the caenival were intrigued as they passed a canvas likeness of Shlitzie, I too was drawn in by the sepia photo I first saw as I perused the TH-cam videos. As the story continued, tears rolled down my cheek as I began to realize this man, considered by some to be the strangest of the strange, had a life that was markedly better than mine. A financially secure life of constant medical and hygienic care, surrounded by love from a family of individuals that learned early in life that in order to survive, they must look out for each other. Beautifully presented. Thank you, Thank you!!
Finished watching Freaks (1932) a few hours ago and I came across this video. Thank you so much pal! It's a wonderful tribute to Schlitzie! You honored him quite beautifully. May he rest in peace.
Thank you SO much for your report .. I'm and old guy and I worked in the carnival as teen .... I only did 3 jumps a year ... but loved my carnival family .. Again Thanks for your even and realistic report of his life! :) ... I gotta say I love you!! :)
I see infectious smiles... eyes that are filled with kindness.. I see a Beautiful Soul.. We are all unique.. There is much that makes us up... making this world... a colorful place to be... Xo
One little correction: written on the photo of Sam Alexander, says that his facial injuries are “War injuries”, which is incorrect. Sam was working in the theatre and his face was burned in a “gas explosion”. A talented prostheticist made Sam’s beautiful facial prosthesis. He began working as a side show exhibit, became wealthy and opened his own side show. It is Sam Alexander who is credited for “rescuing” Schlitzie from the LA mental hosp. I don’t know if there’s much published or video on Sam Alexander, but his story is pretty amazing. He had over-seventy facial reconstructive surgeries. The result was less-than optimal, but he did not wear his prosthesis at all for the last decade (at least) of his life.
Thank you for making this video. I came across Schlitzie accidentally. His story and pictures haunted me, because it all seemed so familiar, but I'd never heard of Schlitzie. I finally remembered Zippy, the cartoon character. At that point I felt bad that this disabled person had been used as an object of ridicule. I enjoyed your video, and I am cheered by the thought that Schlitzie had a loving family.
Great video!! Would love for you to do many more of these type of video documentaries. It was very well informed and well done! I just found your channel and am subscribing, not for just the videos you already have on this channel, but for the hope that you produce many more documentary type videos on subjects like this one!! Keep up the great work and can’t wait to see what you do next! 🤖🤓
A very moving and dignified treatment of this story about a unique and much loved, and loving individual. Thank you so much for posting it. I am glad he found a home in his later years.
Thanks for sharing. Looking at the issues of consent and vulnerability expressed in the letter you received, I must take a more utilitarian approach to the situation. While Schlitzie and other "freaks" may have been treated like property and were essentially commodified, many were as happy and safe. As the narrator in this video mentioned, Schlitzie was always happy and lovable in the side-show business, his co-workers and caretakers gave him "love." And when Schlitzie ended up in the hospital alone he was depressed. No matter the intention of side-show owners, the end result was that Schlitzie was happy and economically secure. If Schlitzie wasn't "discovered" at a young age, who knows what his fate would have been. His parents could have institutionalized him and his life would have been horrible. Furthermore, every single person in the world commodifies themselves or sells themselves in some fashion in order to make money. Pop stars sell sex through sexualized images of their own bodies. Many "normal" people use their bodies, or "god given" physical assets in order to progress their career or status in life. I think handicapped individuals should have that freedom as well. If Schlitzie really did have the mind of a 2 or 3 year old child then he really wasn't able to give consent to joining the sideshow business --he was kind of thrust into this position. However, I think he was lucky that he met people along the way that cared for him. Vulnerable people and children all over the world do not end up so lucky as they end up in sex-traffic rings living a life of abuse and horror. But I do not think Schlitzie was abused and taken advantage of. Anyway, I'll just stop there. Thanks again.
I agree. It was also a different time. There were no real social services. Had his parents put him in an institution, it would have been absolute min care until he died. People can complain that he was treated like property but that resulted in a better life than would have been possible otherwise. No doubt, some people working as side show attractions were terribly abused but most weren't. Like you say, he really didn't have the mental ability to control his own life but he was an asset to those that were taking care of him. If Schlitzie was healthy and happy, everyone made more money. We kind of revolt at the thought of that kind of arrangement today but, back then, that was the best option for him and many others.
Morals and values were the "great norms" of yesteryear. Not like today. I'm glad I was born in the early 50s, before the Communists took over this country. If I were 20 years older, I'd be spared seeing what's about to unfold upon all I love.
This is a very sympathetic look at Schlitzie's life, and well worth a watch for anyone interested in the subject. Thanks for the putting together, and uploading this fascinating video!
He wasn't a freak..He was a beautiful sweet soul....Thank goodness he had people who did really care and love he and his sister...
Amen
Oh how much I agree with you. I would love to have met him and spend time with him.
him
They are the sweetest people you'll ever meet. Zika has brought Microcephaly back into the mainstream.
Let’s not get to offended. Times were different and if the majority of them didn’t have the sideshows they wouldn’t have had any other means to get by. And many were upset bc of that when they shut them down. Many were happy and well cared. Like I said it was a different time
You did such a great job in being respectful and informative. Thanks.
I'm glad that you treat Schlitzie with such respect
why wouldn't he?
because 90% of the human population are complete assholes
cherie andersen, I don't believe that for a minute. I'd say less than 5% are complete assholes. You might be hanging out with the wrong people.
James Celts schlitzie is my cousin
Exactly my thoughts Star.And as I commented up above somewhere^^^^^ that I was glad he was taken care of in his later years.
I seen Schlitzie at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto in 1967 o r 1968.He had such a gentle vibe and seemed to be content.I was glad to hear that he was taken care of in his later years.And he always had a smile.The world would be a greater place if we followed his example...........RIP Schlitzie............and ty for posting this...................................PEACE
Dave smith I also saw him at the Ex. He was there a number of years along with other “Acts”. I am glad to know that he is still remembered. As a side note he had a penchant for spitting at people that made derogatory remarks about him, so who was the stupid one. LOL.
@@uncledooley Good for Schlitzie!
He absolutely did!
*saw
Danny Marks .
That was really great! I watched 'Freaks' when I was a kid and was fascinated by the actors and wondered what kind of lives they must have led. I like that you didn't judge Schlitzie's birth family, too, and were so balanced about how the freak show thing was a sort of double-edged sword. I'm glad that he seemed to live a full life with good people around him. I think you did this person justice. Thank you for this video!
Beautifully done. I especially liked that you did it in black and white. It is great that you told of his love for performing and how important it was to his well-being. Next time I'm in Los Angeles I will spruce up his headstone.
Black-and-white because FREAKS was in b/w, and the background is a frame grab from FREAKS
A like for your caretaking.Good on you John.Very respectable.
I used to live in Rowland Heights. I will go there, too, to keep his resting place nice.
Thank you for your respect and concern. ❤️
Right on .Theres some good people responding and all so positive too.A good Testament to Schlitz.Heartwarming y'all.@Snickersbite
You got that right Snicker.The shell tower and exhibition stadium(where I seen every big group of the day for free are gone...I worked for CPI who staged the shows)and the hockey hall of fame is also gone.I also orked for Conklin when they ran just about everything during the ex.But on the bright side I did see Steppenwolf ther in 2017.John Kay(lead singer talked a bit about working at the ex as a youth.Peace Snick.@Snickersbite
At the end of the day, Schiltzie had a better life than many. I'm glad he was able to be happy.
Better than he would have on any other continent, in any other country, in the world.
Presumptuous but yes, happy for his happiness.. Just hhh even if someone wrote a documentary on one's life, you still couldn't know one's experience based on mere appearances.
but yes I'd like to believe he had a happy life as well
It's true Franklin, but I think as the end was near his life was not as good as it was when he was younger. But he did have a better life than a lot of us that live today so that I am glad for. He deserved only the best for the condition he lived with and the type of work he did. I am glad people treated him with respect and were nice to him.
@@GryanCredreri-ic7kt Well shoot.. I am only 5'11.. I can wear basketball shoes and become 6'1 I guess? It's not a big deal to me anymore anyway. I don't find women my age (early 40s) attractive, and they all have kids so no thank you. I would rather be celibate than deal with anyone's kids.
Schlitzie’s name may be lost to history, but he is known to God for eternity!
@JimmyJames You’re right, as they both have Microcephaly.
@JimmyJames I don’t know, I don’t really pay much attention to him.
Amen R.I.P Schlitzie's
@AngryBlack beets chillin rn, from what i know hes okay but i had no clue they had the same condition !
Wonderful comment!
Beautiful tribute to Schlitzie. As a clown I recognize the person in front of me, not as a freak, but as an individual. God bless you Wayne for a great tribute to a wonderful person who gladdened the hearts of many a generation. RIP Schlitzie God bless you.
No the story is not about her at all
Thanks for giving him honor and dignity as deserved.
I was born a siamese twin, attached at the legs, and my brother was still born. I went thru some very painful surgeries about 30 of them before I was 5. I was left with an artificial limb and a limp from having very little right hip. I only say this because I can understand to a small degree what these different people must have felt being stared at and laughed at sometimes. I sometimes wonder if Schlitzie's mental impairment was a blessing, he lived life just being himself and loving everyone he met. I would love to find out his history before show business, but it seems many have tried and failed. I guess the fact that several people were involved in giving me a great life, and that is all that really matters.
"I sometimes wonder if Schlitzie's mental impairment was a blessing" ...I can speak to this a little bit. I survived a brain injury a few years back. For the first 5 1/2 months I was not completely lucid. I went to doctors and therapies, the whole time in a dreamlike state, with no real concept of passing time. Like in a dream, I knew something was very wrong, but could not focus enough to be alarmed about it. I would say that it absolutely was a blessing. If I had to adjust to my new life, AND fully understand the meaning, it would have been far too overwhelming, hell, tying my shoes was overwhelming. It's years later, and things are way better, but if I had not recovered so much, I'd rather have stayed half-aware.
Steven Hair Thanks for sharing. I feel like a freak because I was raised a Jehovah's Witnesse. We stood out but not as much as you did I'm sure. I hope all is well for you and yours.
Hello Steve and thank you for sharing.
Hope you are well friend.
This videos demonstrates the importance of community and having a network of friends. These days people are too closed off from each other afraid the other person will say something or do something. We hardly talk to neighbors anymore or anyone really outside of work.
You are very lucky you were born in the West.
It is actually quite rare for someone with Microcephaly to live as long as Schlitzie did many do not live past
30.I think being in a side show was a positive experience not a life of exploitation as many would assume.Schlitzie was strange looking but had such a sweet nature that really came through in Freaks....he was remarkable! who entertained countless people in his day! So glad you honored him and his life by making this video!
Your definition of entertainment is basically bullying. You really think the audiences were respectful back then when these sideshows took place?
@rustneversleeps85 go home bot
@@rustneversleeps85 no different then people who are "differently abled"are treated in society! Schlitze had a sort of family of other freaks looking out for him!
@@rustneversleeps85 Hr probably had a better life with the circus than he would have had on the outside as he would have probably been put in some institution
I don't know why that video suddenly popped up in my recommendations, but I'm glad it did. I feared the worst, but you brought out the best. Respect and thanks.
Ordinosaurs & retro computers - Same here. It was a completely random recommendation, but I'm certainly glad I watched it. Mr. Keyser did an incredibly beautiful and touching tribute to Schlitzie.
same here internet friend ..
I don't have even the slightest idea where the recommendation came from either but like the others have said, I'm glad that I was blessed to see this today. I once Pastored a country church where an individual much like Schlitzie would sometimes attend. He had parents who, though they loved him dearly , we're unable to get him the help he needed. Siblings or "friends" had taught him to curse, smoke and God only knows what else. One thing I suppose I'll always remember of this man was that regardless of who the pastor was, this man called him God!
The same here. Thank you for treating this person with dignity.
I don't know how this video wound up in my recommended list.
But it's just what I needed. With all the ugliness I see and hear day in and day out it's easy for me to point my finger at the world and think that I'm not contributing to the ugliness.
Truth is, I'm not the most positive person alive and more often than not, I'm a selfish crybaby.
Thank you for this video.
I've been so numb to emotion and cynical about everything for longer than I can remember.
I can't pinpoint the exact reason why, but this video hit a nerve and some of the beautiful comments brought tears to my eyes for the first time in years.
Again, Thank you sir.
Beautiful sentiments, White! Your open honesty, I respect, sir! Peace
We all had hard times like that. I'm glad things are better now, I hope they stay good.
Your response seems to fit my sentiments exactly tonight. Somehow .....this....as crazy as it may sound was what my soul too needed. Carrying the same feelings you described above also made for proof positive something indeed brought me here. It somehow fed my soul. Greetings and love from NC!
What a nicely presented little documentary. Modern attitudes might make people recoil at the idea of sideshow circuses but those circuses provided a decent income and life to people who would otherwise be locked away and forgotten all about.
Despite his severe disabilities, Schlitzie managed to live a full and fun life and he deserves to be remembered for it.
If you go to other countries, they still have freak shows. There are no social programs to take care of people with disabilities in those countries, and they depend on family members to take care of them. If they have no family or are abandoned by their family. They have to survive somehow, and these freak shows provide at least a little income or at least a place to stay.
Yeah oddly enough it wasn't a bad life for a lot of them, there was decent money to be made and they formed tight little communities who were very loyal and took care of each other, the movie Freaks does a pretty good job portraying that although I think it gets a tad exploitative at times.
I thought the same thing. He seemed happy and was making money and had lots of friends. If he didn't have the circus, he would certainly have had a much worse life experience.
Agreed. Joseph Merrick in the 19th century chose to go in a side show as he had no other way of earning money and the other alternative was the workhouse.
Our humanity is tested on how we care for those challenged by development.
Hannibal, some were good and some were bad. Schlitzie enjoyed life, as a "freak" on display, more than he would have hidden away in an institution, forgotten and neglected.
@@DHW256 - very good point, I was about to say the same.
In this way this video was an eye-opener. The sideshow world provided a family to Schlitzie, and a loving one at that. The "care" provided at an institution could have been a nightmare in comparison.
This is certainly an invitation to re-assess sideshows, which may be too easily condemned by the smug, impulsive, and ultimately judgemental "political correctness" of today.
The regular injustices of the disabled and their families are due to choices made by others. I appreciate your comment as its very true. I also see the perpetual sickness of the majority toward the disabled. A few hold onto compassion even still. Thankful for those who refuse to follow the pack.
@@1erinjames you are correct compassion is key
A wonderful report on Schlitzie. A man who deserved nothing but love and luckily got it from most people around him.
Bless you Schlitzie. I consider you to have been a finer person than about 99 percent of the rest of humanity. Well done video.
People like Schlitzie are special. The world is not worthy of them.
He was charming and adorable. He was just sweet and you could see why everyone would love him! :'( rip schlitze.
What a lovely and sensitively handled video. Thank you so much for making it, and for giving Schlitzie the respect he deserves.
Loved the way you presented Schlitzie's story. Thank you and God bless.
Rest in Peace Schlitie.
This is a beautiful and heartfelt tribute to Schlitzie. You’re clearly an empathetic person-thank you for your insight.
I was friends with a gentleman named Verne Langdon. He used to speak to me about Schlitzie. He was so proud that he got to participate in helping get him the grave marker.
Thank you very much for this. It always warms my heart when someone like this is remembered with the reverence that his life deserved.
I think Schlitzie was the one teaching us and not the other way around.
God bless all of you involved.
Your friend Verne was an interesting fellow.
Yes, it was nice to get to know Schlitzie. His life was such a positive story, seems that if you met him, you loved him.. Thankyou so much for telling his story Wayne that was really well done, my friend.
This is *BY FAR* the best you tube video I have ever seen, and I have seen a lot of you tube videos, including my own mother's memorial video.
These freak shows are often criticized as you said, but they gave these people a community in which they could form relationships. A few were abusive, but the abusive ones didn't last long, because there were so many, these people could demand good pay and good working conditions.
The fact Schlitzie lived for 70 years says a great deal about how he was cared for. You don't live 70 years if you have a poor diet and poor care. Many people with Schlitzie issues don't live 70 minutes, let alone 70 years.
Hell he had a longer than average life for someone born in his generation.
Correct , While, there are some who die within first year of their birth, others even live till 35 or even longer. Care is the key , but there is no proper life expectancy to microcephaly
I won't argue that care isn't important. This disorder comes with other health problems that can greatly shorten life. No matter how well you care for someone like this, they can still die young.
Eric Taylor of course the nature of that disorder and genetics play a role
I didn't say they were non-factors. I just said that care is not necessarily the key. No amount of medical care can keep a person alive forever.
Eric Taylor really ? I didn’t knew that 🤔
You write beautifully, it’s lovely to see schlitzie’s life remembered in this way. A lovely tribute. 💕
This documentary/commentary is masterful. The voice reminds me a bit of Burl Ives from the old Rudolph animated movies, so wonderful.
Thank you Mr keyser,that was extremely interesting and fascinating.
That was absolutely wonderful. I am always fascinated by his story and the stories of other sideshow act. I really appreciate your video. I am a mother of 3 handicapped children who passed away many years ago in their toddler ages. It was not a difficult decision to keep them, but I have a cousin who was not so lucky. If they could not have afforded the round the clock nursing for her daughter, she would have been institutionalized, a choice she agonized over. We judge to quickly, in almost every situation of life. People always say, "I'm sorry." But I don't regret anything about keeping, caring for, loving, and losing our kids. They are my world. I have 4 healthy children now. I wanted to thank you. What a beautiful tribute to tell someone's story, teach with that story, and keep their memory alive. Thank you. 🦋
A delightful video. Well done. Very glad you were so respectful, and took the trouble to really get everything right.
That is a beautiful tribute to a wonderful entertainer.
Your end remarks about sideshows often offering the only chance for earning a living for many disabled folks in those days is so true and very important.
I have been a major fan of Schlitze for many years, after seeing Tod Browning's film. One of my favourites. I found your video very interesting indeed. I have always considered "freaks" to be very special people. Worthy of compassion and respect. You have presented his story with the same. Thank you. Teresa from Ireland
no, thank you for your obvious and collective conclusion. Alfred from Scotland.
Very moving story. With the carnival, Schlitzie was given the opportunity to celebrate a life of happiness and excitement few of us would know. There he had a family who revered him and protected him and gave him some human affection. That is evident on the smiles and happy demeanor he showed in his pictures. He lived til 70 years of age. That's incredible. Thanks for sharing this wonderful heart warming story.
Thank you for such a wonderful presentation about a very special man.
Wayne, thank you for such a nice portrait of Schlitzie. It was a warm, understanding and compassionate vignette of a very deserving soul. He is in the arms of God now, with all the joy one could ever want for an eternity. You are such a wonderful man for exuding the sensibilities behind the story of Schlitzie who himself was the source of joy and happiness for the many people of his day. We need more stories like this because there is such a widespread famine of the joy and happiness found in the simplest things. Schlitzie was a child of virtue, a virtue that is so uncommon today. Many of his peers who suffered misfortune were also children of virtue and of joy and of happiness. No one should abandon others the way Shlitzie endured and his friends as well. Thank you for such a remarkable video and thank you for demonstrating compassion in a way others should learn from. It all helps for a better world. God bless you !
Schlitzie will always hold a place in my heart. I was so happy to learn Sam Alexander got him and cared for him. I was adopted as well so I know what it feel like to be sad. Thank you Wayne Keyser for posting this beautiful video. You narrating makes it all so special. I will visit from time to time. Thanks again, Imagine ♥
I never had the honor of seeing Schlitzie in person, I have only seen him in the 1932 film. The first time I seen the film 55 years ago it left a lasting impression on me to this day. I am so glad you have made this information available to all. If I am near Roland Heights I will make sure the grave site is kept up, least I can do.
Wonderfully written and produced with obvious respect, admiration and compassion... well done, sir.
Life can be so cruel, but I'm thankful for the caring people in it.
70 years old. Amen. He had a long full life im sure he understood his situation by 70 years old and.....I'm glad to have seen this video. Life is good.
Wow. This is very touching. Thank you for doing this. 😊
In some ways Schlitzie was a better human being than all of us, RIP mate
for sure better than doanld trump
@@azrael_III Wow the TDS (Trump Derangement Syndrome) is real... dude, keep your politics out of where they don't belong.
Orange man bad!
@S C We all have the DNC and Debbie Wasserman Schulz to thank for the rise of the Trump Monster. Thanks for rigging the primary and putting perhaps the only person in America who could actually lose to DONALD MOTHERFUCKING TRUMP at the top of your ticket. lolololololol.
Worst. Candidate. EVAR!!!!!1!!!!!
@User 01 ow dat edge!
What a nice tribute. What is said in the last few minutes is very well thought out and delivered.
I wonder what happened to shlitzies sister and how her life ended. I assume they were eventualy seperated. But i wonder what became of her..oh and by the way sir this video was well done. With class.
and what are the odds of producing two microcephalic children?
@@watchgoose I don't know the odds, but they believe it has more than one cause and some of them can be genetic.
When two genetically similar people pair, even if it is unintentional , things like that happen.
@@watchgoose Iodine deficiency in mother during pregnancy can cause microcephaly. If the mother was deficient in iodine with one, no doubt she was with another.
@Paper St. Not necessarily
Thank you sir. This doc umentary was lovely. Beautiful job. Bless you and thank you.
What a fascinating story. Thank you for taking the time to research and share this with us!
Wow. Can find no words.
Very well done and presented. Thank you, Mr. Keyser. I'm glad Schlitzie received such respectful and thorough reporting to let us see an aspect of entertainment most of us only know through hearsay. I remember one or two traveling shows coming into my grandmother's rural area in the late 50's, but of course, my parents wouldn't let a child see such things. (The "Human Oddities" were always out of sight, priced at 25 or 50 cents admission - but my parents always steered away from this part of shows - I think they believed it was not 'nice' to stare at another's misfortunes.
In a very strange way, I think there is one regret to the fact that these exhibitions are now prohibited in the US - the shows, even though they made use of disabled people in what seems now to be a humiliating way, DID provide legitimate employment for people like Schlitzie. He, according to your telling, was not overly aware of his disability - but did like interacting with people. Just as predicted by a doctor, when institutionalized and deprived of the diverse interactions with the public made possible side shows, Schlitizie did become more depressed, which led to failing health.
Thank you this was very well done and interesting to find this tribute to him. I remember Schlitzie in his wheelchair with his caretaker. They used to sit outside of the Weird Museum on Hollywood Boulevard where I worked on weekend nights. He would sell his postcards. This was back in 1970. He didn't talk much, but was part of the street scene in those days. May he rest in peace.
Respectful, kind and really very sweet. Thank you for sharing his life with us and thank you for your kindness. The world could use more like you Mr Keyser.
Sir you did a superb presentation. Thankfully he found folks that would love him.
Wonderful narration. The freak show was still a staple of the carnival circuit when I was a boy. The last one I remember seeing was at the Calgary Stampede, my first year of college. I knew about Schlitze growing up, but I learned a great deal from your video. Thank you.
You did a great job at giving a wonderful human being kindness and respect...it is what Schlitzie gave to all! he was great in Freaks...it was a bit sad but it was also heartwarming as well! Miss you Schlitzie!!!!!💖
Thank you so much for showing so much respect for this sweet innocent human being. What a gentleman you are.
Nicely written, nicely treated, nicely delivered. I thoroughly enjoyed your video on this man. Well done!
Thank you for taking the time and interest in presenting these facts and events on the life of someone I have always gotten a warm feeling from whenever I had the opportunity to see him. Whether as a side-show act or even being portrayed as him by others, I have always wondered about how life was for him, and others like him. It makes me happy to know that he, at least, was loved and, as far as I now know, treat kindly. Again, I thank you! This was presented with warmth, humanity and well deserved dignity!! BRAVO. Sir, I commend you!
Thank you for that beautiful explanation of such an apparently sweet soul. Kudos to you for not making him a freak still.
What a well composed and narrated history. The depth of your analysis regarding his life, and the sociological impact of disability is book worthy. Well done Wayne.
Thank You Sir. this is so beautifully done. Much respect to you for the respect given to Schlitzie
Thank you for doing this! As a disabled person it touched home. You did an excellent job trying to get his true story out and am grateful.
Thank you enormously for this compassionate, informed video. Extremely nice.
Your video is by far the most in-depth video about Schlitze I’ve yet to find on the internet. Thank you for posting!
I think you’re a talented author as well. You were quite entertaining to listen to you.
I've always loved Schlitzie and found this a wonderful tribute!
Bravo. Compassionate, respectful, seemingly well researched. I thoroughly enjoyed this.
Good job Wayne. That was very insightful. It's impossible for me not to smile when I see Schlitzie's cheeky grin. :)
This was wonderful. The final section was beautifully written and your delivery was terrific.
That my friend was really well done. Bravo!
This was an interesting and informative essay, and considering the scarcity of information about Schlitzie's life, it was a well done narrative. I also appreciated the great care you put into telling Schlitzie's story, you told his story with the kind of sincerity as if he were once your personal friend. Thank you.
Good job. Informative and just plain cool, particularly with "being on the set". Gives a great tone and context.
Thanks for all the research you did on Schlitzie. You shined a light on a story I didn't know, and it was certainly an interesting one.
Nice commentary on an interesting life. Thanks for posting.
crunchyfrog0001 omg I love your profile picture Monty python the holy grail 👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
Very well spoken Mr. Keyer, both about Schlitzie, his life, medicine, and society. You are wise, insightful, and admirable for speaking to an unfortunate situation.
Wayne, a Fabulous overview of this fascinating person. Bravo.
This was absolutely amazing and I enjoyed the commentary. Thank you for your hard work and dedication, Mr. Keyser! Your video was so well-made and informative.
I like how you treated Schlitzie with respect.
Just like the caenival were intrigued as they passed a canvas likeness of Shlitzie, I too was drawn in by the sepia photo I first saw as I perused the TH-cam videos. As the story continued, tears rolled down my cheek as I began to realize this man, considered by some to be the strangest of the strange, had a life that was markedly better than mine. A financially secure life of constant medical and hygienic care, surrounded by love from a family of individuals that learned early in life that in order to survive, they must look out for each other. Beautifully presented. Thank you, Thank you!!
"Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth"...…. Matt 5:5
"Eat the meek" - Fat Mike -
Rush 2112..... and the meek shall inherit the earth
John Booker's Full spectrum
‼️‼️
ady nails
When Jesus returns ❗️
@ady nails Never fails!! the RACIST MAGGOTS!!
Finished watching Freaks (1932) a few hours ago and I came across this video. Thank you so much pal! It's a wonderful tribute to Schlitzie! You honored him quite beautifully. May he rest in peace.
That was beautiful.
Well done.
A deep and respectful research piece with an equally compassionate yet balanced overview and conclusion. Thank you for your effort and upload.
i teared up at the end. thank you for this.
Angela Hayes omg me too 😢😭
A life worth lived and remembered. Thank you for taking the time to record and retell his life. He was affectionate, and he was happy.
Thank you SO much for your report .. I'm and old guy and I worked in the carnival as teen .... I only did 3 jumps a year ... but loved my carnival family .. Again Thanks for your even and realistic report of his life! :) ... I gotta say I love you!! :)
A lovely tribute to a vulnerable human.. you presented the facts so very well... thank you.
Boy this so well done, interesting, and informative . Thanks so much
Wonderful documentary! It's nice to see that there are still presenters relying on dignity and fact.
I see infectious smiles... eyes that are filled with kindness.. I see a Beautiful Soul.. We are all unique.. There is much that makes us up... making this world... a colorful place to be... Xo
What a wonderful short film. Compassion and empathy are the highest and most incorruptable form of human currency.
One little correction: written on the photo of Sam Alexander, says that his facial injuries are “War injuries”, which is incorrect.
Sam was working in the theatre and his face was burned in a “gas explosion”. A talented prostheticist made Sam’s beautiful facial prosthesis. He began working as a side show exhibit, became wealthy and opened his own side show. It is Sam Alexander who is credited for “rescuing” Schlitzie from the LA mental hosp.
I don’t know if there’s much published or video on Sam Alexander, but his story is pretty amazing.
He had over-seventy facial reconstructive surgeries. The result was less-than optimal, but he did not wear his prosthesis at all for the last decade (at least) of his life.
there was a character on Boardwalk Empire like that, i wonder if Sam was the inspiration for that
God bless him for the rescue. He literally saved a life.
A respectful nod to you Wayne for the dignity and respect you have given Schlitzie. Thank you.
Thank you for this presentation about Schlitzie. I always wondered about him.
Thank you for making this video.
I came across Schlitzie accidentally. His story and pictures haunted me, because it all seemed so familiar, but I'd never heard of Schlitzie. I finally remembered Zippy, the cartoon character. At that point I felt bad that this disabled person had been used as an object of ridicule.
I enjoyed your video, and I am cheered by the thought that Schlitzie had a loving family.
I always wondered about his life. Thank you for the lovely telling of it...⚘
Thank you so much for this wonderful tribute. It is rather amazing that Schlitzie had such a fulfilling life.
Great video!!
Would love for you to do many more of these type of video documentaries. It was very well informed and well done! I just found your channel and am subscribing, not for just the videos you already have on this channel, but for the hope that you produce many more documentary type videos on subjects like this one!! Keep up the great work and can’t wait to see what you do next!
🤖🤓
A very moving and dignified treatment of this story about a unique and much loved, and loving individual. Thank you so much for posting it.
I am glad he found a home in his later years.
May the Lord richly bless Schlitzie and others like him with a new life more abundant than the life he never had.
Space Cadet Joseph Merrik was a great man , architect, philosopher...
Wonderful story. You really amaze me how your heart went out to this man and all the research you did. A very touching story. Thank you.
Thanks for sharing. Looking at the issues of consent and vulnerability expressed in the letter you received, I must take a more utilitarian approach to the situation. While Schlitzie and other "freaks" may have been treated like property and were essentially commodified, many were as happy and safe. As the narrator in this video mentioned, Schlitzie was always happy and lovable in the side-show business, his co-workers and caretakers gave him "love." And when Schlitzie ended up in the hospital alone he was depressed. No matter the intention of side-show owners, the end result was that Schlitzie was happy and economically secure. If Schlitzie wasn't "discovered" at a young age, who knows what his fate would have been. His parents could have institutionalized him and his life would have been horrible. Furthermore, every single person in the world commodifies themselves or sells themselves in some fashion in order to make money. Pop stars sell sex through sexualized images of their own bodies. Many "normal" people use their bodies, or "god given" physical assets in order to progress their career or status in life. I think handicapped individuals should have that freedom as well. If Schlitzie really did have the mind of a 2 or 3 year old child then he really wasn't able to give consent to joining the sideshow business --he was kind of thrust into this position. However, I think he was lucky that he met people along the way that cared for him. Vulnerable people and children all over the world do not end up so lucky as they end up in sex-traffic rings living a life of abuse and horror. But I do not think Schlitzie was abused and taken advantage of. Anyway, I'll just stop there. Thanks again.
You expressed something very similar to what I was thinking/feeling.
I agree. It was also a different time. There were no real social services. Had his parents put him in an institution, it would have been absolute min care until he died.
People can complain that he was treated like property but that resulted in a better life than would have been possible otherwise. No doubt, some people working as side show attractions were terribly abused but most weren't.
Like you say, he really didn't have the mental ability to control his own life but he was an asset to those that were taking care of him. If Schlitzie was healthy and happy, everyone made more money. We kind of revolt at the thought of that kind of arrangement today but, back then, that was the best option for him and many others.
Morals and values were the "great norms" of yesteryear. Not like today. I'm glad I was born in the early 50s, before the Communists took over this country. If I were 20 years older, I'd be spared seeing what's about to unfold upon all I love.
Planned Parenthood would have more lethal plans for Schlitsie!
This is a very sympathetic look at Schlitzie's life, and well worth a watch for anyone interested in the subject. Thanks for the putting together, and uploading this fascinating video!
Thanks for this. Much appreciated.
Sir, this is one of the best videos I have ever watched on YT . Well researched , well written and your voice is perfect as a narrator .