Hence, for the most part, they were of Chinese blood, which probably accounted for their dark color and Chinese features.

Their mother was about thirty-five years old at the time of their birth and had borne 4 female children prior to Chang and Eng.

She afterward had twins several times, having eventually 14 children in all.

She gave no history of special significance of the pregnancy, although she averred that the head of one and the feet of the other were born at the same time.

The twins were both feeble at birth, and Eng continued delicate, while Chang thrived.