Fred Neal

Fred Neal

Neal, Fred; Albino; Coarsegold, CA

Fred Neal, an albino child was born in these Coarsegold hills to Indian parents. His father, Dick Neal, better known as Chicago Dick lived into the mid 1930s although practically blind. This was the second albino baby born to this couple, the first, true to Indian belief and custom was promptly disposed of, evil spirits being held responsible for such a birth. The second child, Fred, might have suffered the same fate had it not been for the great Chicago Fair in 1893, where the Neals were persuaded to exhibit the strange little creature with it+s white hair and small pink eyes which seemed to contract in daylight. Those were marvelous days for these Indians, but, alas, when the Fair closed its doors, Chicago Dick and family were stranded, left to shift for themselves as best they could. The Indians of Coarsegold made up a purse to provide return transportation and they were welcomed home. The child grew in to young manhood, passing away about 1918.

1 photograph : b & w ; 15.24 x 10.16 cm.

San Joaquin Valley Library System

c. 1895

Madera County Library

This image is being made available for educational and research purposes only, under the 'fair use' clause of the U.S. Copyright Law (Title 17 § 107 U.S.C.) Further questions regarding the image or its use may be directed to the Madera County Library, 121 N. G St., Madera, CA 93537; Phn: 559-675-7871; Fax: 559-675-7998.

Madera County Library

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mal0066

c. 1895