Abomah the Giantess: The Untold Story of Ella Williams
Ella Williams, better known as “Abomah the Giantess”, was a woman who stood out—literally and figuratively. Born into slavery, she rose to fame as one of the most celebrated circus performers of her time. Her towering height, elegance, and talent made her a global sensation.
This article dives into her life, career, and lasting impact on entertainment history.
Who Was Ella Williams?
Ella Williams was an African American woman born in 1865 in South Carolina, just ten months after enslaved people in the U.S. were declared free. Though her early years were marked by hardship, her extraordinary height—over 7 feet tall—propelled her into a life of fame. She became a symbol of strength and beauty, breaking barriers for Black performers in the circus world.
Early Life of Ella Williams
Born Into Slavery
Ella entered the world during a turbulent time. Her family had endured slavery, and freedom was still new. Growing up, Ella’s height began to set her apart. By age 14, she survived a battle with malaria. Some believed the illness triggered her rapid growth, while others thought it was simply puberty. Either way, Ella soon towered over her siblings and neighbors.
A Giant in a World of Average-Sized People
In a family of average height, Ella’s size made her a local wonder. By her late teens, she stood over 7 feet tall. Back then, such height was rare and often seen as a spectacle. But Ella’s story wasn’t just about her size—it was about how she turned her uniqueness into opportunity.
Becoming “Abomah the Giantess”
From Ella to Abomah: A New Identity
To succeed in show business, Ella needed a stage name. Managers chose “Abomah”, inspired by a West African region (now Benin). They marketed her as a “warrior princess” from Africa, adding exotic flair to attract crowds. Though the backstory was fictional, Ella embraced the role with grace.
Why She Performed in Europe First
Racial discrimination in the U.S. made it hard for Black performers to gain respect. Ella’s manager, Bostock, sent her to Europe in the early 1900s, where audiences were more accepting. Plus, there was already a white “giantess” named Ella in America—a conflict that pushed her career overseas.
The Life of a Circus Star
A Global Sensation
Abomah toured North America, South America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand. She worked with big names like Ringling Bros. Circus and Reynold’s Exhibition. Audiences adored her elegance, often comparing her to royalty.
The Act: More Than Just Height
Ella wasn’t just tall—she was talented. She sang popular songs (even minstrel tunes, which had racist lyrics) and moved with surprising grace. Her performances mixed humor, music, and charm, challenging stereotypes about giantesses being clumsy or intimidating.
How Tall Was She Really?
Newspapers claimed she was 8 feet tall, but historians believe she stood between 7’0” and 7’6”. Either way, her height was jaw-dropping. Stories say she could lift adults with one arm!
Challenges and Triumphs
Fighting Stereotypes
As a Black woman in the 1900s, Ella faced racism daily. Sideshows often used racist tropes, but Ella’s dignity and talent shone through. She wore lavish gowns, spoke eloquently, and refused to be reduced to a “freak show.”
The Mystery of Her Later Years
After World War I, Ella returned to the U.S. and faded from the spotlight. By the 1920s, she was in her 60s and likely retired. Sadly, records of her final years are lost, but her legacy lives on.
Abomah’s Legacy
Breaking Barriers for Black Performers
Ella paved the way for future Black entertainers. At a time when circuses rarely featured people of color in dignified roles, she proved that talent and charisma could transcend prejudice.
Why We Remember Her Today
Abomah’s story reminds us of the resilience of marginalized communities. She turned her “difference” into power, inspiring generations to embrace their uniqueness.
Ella Williams, the woman behind “Abomah the Giantess,” was more than a circus act—she was a pioneer. Her journey from slavery to international fame shows the power of resilience and talent. Though much of her life remains a mystery, her impact on circus history is undeniable. By sharing her story, we honor a woman who stood tall in every sense of the word.
FAQs About Abomah the Giantess
1. How tall was Abomah the Giantess?
She was likely between 7’0” and 7’6”, though newspapers exaggerated her height to 8 feet.
2. Why was she called “Abomah”?
Her stage name came from a region in West Africa (now Benin) to create an exotic persona.
3. Did she really perform in minstrel shows?
Yes, but many Black performers had to sing minstrel songs to survive in the industry. Ella did so with grace and professionalism.
4. What happened to her after retirement?
Details are scarce, but she likely lived a quiet life away from the spotlight.
5. Why is her story important?
She challenged racial and gender stereotypes, proving that Black women could be celebrated entertainers in a prejudiced world.