The Extraordinary Life of the Siamese Twins: Chang and Eng Bunker [S6.E22]

We dive back into history with the remarkable story of Chang and Eng Bunker, more famously known as the Siamese Twins.

Born and raised in Samut Songkhram province just south of Bangkok, they had a fateful encounter with a Scottish trader by the name of Robert Hunter - himself an interesting fellow - and their lives were never the same. Siam at the time was little more than a vague backwater “somewhere in Asia” and because of their unique condition, the twins agreed to follow Hunter to the US and go on tour. It was not an easy life, as they fought against racial stereotypes and the fear that people of the time had against anyone with such an unusual condition, but they persevered, learning English and eventually striking out on their own to control their own destinies. This was just the beginning of a remarkable adventure that saw them get into bar brawls, argue with doctors, travel the world, and find fame, fortune and love.

Check out the episode of Mobituaries here, which visits one of the Bunker family reunions, as well as this trailer for a TV show called Extraordinary Siamese Story: Chang and Eng.

Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Become a member!