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Trans Guy Glossary Ever seen a phrase or term online but had no way to search for what it meant? Have you just come out and are feeling a little overwhelmed by all the new words that you 'have' to learn? This page acts as a glossary/dictionary for all words and phrases related to trans guys and our shared experiences. Some of the terms on this page are not trans guy-specific, but serve as a good reference anyway. Please note; you may see a term and think "I don't fit 100% of the term. Am I still allowed to call myself [X]?" Yes, yes you can. These are simply the straightforward definitions, you may interpret your relationship with these words however you like. Have words and phrases to suggest? Head to the Contact page. A(G/S)AB (adj.) - Assigned (Gender/Sex) at Birth Used as shorthand. Catch-all term to describe how an individual was assigned at birth without specifics. EX: "Tommy? Yeah, I have no idea what their AGAB is, but I know for sure they're hot!" AFAB (adj.) - Assigned Female at Birth Used as shorthand. Some trans people use it as a noun (i.e. "I'm AFAB), though many people use it as a way to describe what genitalia they have -- totally negating those who have sought sex reassignment surgery. As its core, the term "AFAB" describes an individual's past state; present and future may vary. EX: "He was AFAB, but is now transitioning to male." AMAB (adj.) - Assigned Male at Birth Used as shorthand. Same definition as "AFAB", but used to identify those who were assigned male at birth but may be pursuing transitioning. EX: "She was AMAB, but is now transitioning to female." Aranu'tiq (adj./n.) Originating from the Chugach in the Americas, Aranu'tiq individuals were considered "male on one side, female on another". EX: "He is Aranu'tiq in his expression." Binary (Man/Male) (adj./n.) Anyone with the male gender. Can apply to trans* men and cis men as well. EX: "I told everyone I'm a binary man because I just identify as a dude." Boi (adj./n.) Broadly means an individual who is masculine, but not in a cisheteronormative way. EX: "He's a man, I'm a Boi." Bottom Growth (n.) Medical term describing the growth of the clitoris during testosterone hormone replacement therapy. Size is determined by dosage and genetics. Most people average 1-3 inches. EX: "Dude! My bottom growth itches so bad... but at least it's getting bigger!" Boyflux (adj.) Generally describes an individual whose masculine gender fluctuates in intensity. EX: "Sometimes I feel like a guy, other times I don't. I think I may be Boyflux." Brotherboy (adj./n.) Originating from Queensland Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, Brotherboys were individuals who were AFAB but who have a masculine spirit. Can be considered binary or non-binary. EX: "My friend is a Brotherboy, he's really cool." Burrnesha (n.) Also referred to as "Balkan sworn virgins", Burrnesha generally defines someone who was AFAB but lives as a celibate man to do the roles in society only given to men. The tradition goes back to the 1400s, but is still sparsely practiced today. EX: "I went to Albania and met a Burrnesha. He seemed pretty cool." Bussy (n.) Affectionate nickname to describe (A) the vulva/vaginal opening of a trans guy, (B) the anus of anyone. EX: "His bussy is exceptionally tight." Butch (adj./n.) Historically Butch has been used simply to describe the expression of an individual that was extremely masculine - oftentimes bordering on parody. Nowadays, it generally defines one's gender expression and can be applied to any gender identity, though it's most commonly in use within the Lesbian community. At it's core, Butch can be both a descriptor and an identity. EX: "Did you see? Mary has a new partner and he's totally butch. I saw him wearing all leather!" Chest Binder (n.) Binders are compression vests used to compress and conceal the breasts. They come in a wide variety of shapes and colors, though typically look like half or full tank tops. EX: "Dude, I think my binder is too tight. I knew I should've gotten the large!" Cisgender (adj.) Describes any individual who identifies with the sex/gender they were assigned at birth. EX: "Yeah, my dad is cis(gender). He's such a man's man." Demiboy (adj./n.) Describes an individual whose gender may be partially but not completely male. EX: "My friend told me he's a demiboy the other day." FTM - Female-to-Male (n.) FTM is an acronym to describe an individual's transition from Female to Male. Some FTM people medically transition, others do not. EX: "Max is FTM, so he's thinking about getting top surgery some day." Fa'atama/Faʻatane/Fafatama (adj./n.) Originating from Samoa, Fa'atama describes a second gender for those who were AFAB. Generally refers to someone who was AFAB but with a masculine spirit. EX: "There aren't many Fa'atamas left in the world." Front Hole (n.) Affectionate nickname to describe the vulva/vaginal opening. Used sometimes to avoid the medical term, as it may bring discomfort to some individuals. EX: "My front hole is *not* open for use." Gender Dysphoria (n.) Typically described as a sense of unease, anxiety, and/or depression about the misalignment between an individual's assigned sex/gender at birth and their current gender. Gender dysphoria takes on many different forms (typically regarding physical traits) and is never the same for everyone. Many trans* individuals experience gender dysphoria, others do not. Many who have gender dysphoria pursue medical transitioning to alleviate their dysphoria, other do not. All are equally valid. EX: "My gender dysphoria is so bad that sometimes I can't shower without crying. Have you felt the same?" Intersex (adj.) An individual who does not have sex characteristics that would be considered "normal" for Males and Females. This comes in a *wide* variety of forms. Being intersex is not the same as being trans*, though some identify as such. EX: "The doctor told me I was intersex, which I guess explains a lot." Metoidioplasty (n.) One option for bottom surgery. The mons pubis may be pulled back so the enlarged clitoris may be used as a phallus. May include optional scrotum implants, urethral lengthening, and vaginectomy. Check out this page for more info. Ex: "I wanted a metoidioplasty because I don't care that much about penetration." Mutarajjulat/Mustarjil (adj./n.) Literally, "women who wish to resemble men". Originating from Islamic cultures between the 9th - 11th cent. CE, Mutarajjulat/Mustarjil individuals were AFAB but dress and live as men. They may have fought in battles. EX: "He was born female but is now a Mustarjil living as a man." Non-Binary (adj.) Descriptor of any individual(s) who don't identify with Male or Female. May be used as an umbrella term to include genderqueer, bi-gender, etc. EX: "Arson told me they're Non-Binary the other day. Should we celebrate?" Phalloplasty (n.) One option for bottom surgery. The phallus (penis) is constructed from skin either on the forearm or inner thigh. There can be optional urethral lengthening and/or scrotum insertion and/or a vaginectomy. Check out this page for more info. EX: "When I went in for phallo(plasty), my doctor asked me how big I wanted my new penis." Stud (adj/n.) A descriptor for masculine Black lesbians, though recent scholarship has questioned the term's connection between Blackness and a "stud" as a breeding animal. EX: "My girlfriend is such a stud." T-Dick (n.) Affectionate nickname describing the growth of the clitoris while taking testosterone hormone replacement therapy. EX: "My T-dick is bigger than yours!" Testosterone/T (n.) Synthetic testosterone many trans guys take to alter their body to a more masculine state. Can come in shots, gel, and pellets. Do not take pills. EX: "I take my T shots every other week." Top Surgery (n.) Nickname for a double mastectomy, aka the total removal of the breast tissue. There are multiple different kinds of top surgery, depending on body type and breast size. Check out this page for more info. EX: "I got top surgery a few years ago and my scars have healed really well!" Trans Man/Male (n.) Typically describes an individual who is trans* and identifies as a binary man. Gender expression may vary. EX: "Aidrian identifies as a trans man. He's very macho." Trans Masc(uline) (adj./n.) Refers to individuals whose identity is along the masculine spectrum, but may not necessarily identify as Male. EX: "Yeah man, I'm transmasc. Sometimes I kinda feel like a guy but other days I dunno." Transgender (adj.) Used as an umbrella term and encompasses other terms (i.e. Non-Binary, Transsexual, etc.). An individual whose gender does not align with their A(G/S)AB. They may choose to pursue social and/or medical transition. Transgender individuals generally prioritize the non-medical aspects of their transition, but mileage varies. EX: "Transgender people use the bathroom just like everyone else does." Transsexual (adj.) Generally defines a trans* person who prioritizes their medical transition as opposed to some non-transsexuals. Transsexual predates Transgender as an umbrella term; used primarily when it was believed the only way a trans* person could be "legit" was to medically transition. In some contexts, transsexual is a slur; in other contexts, trans* people have reclaimed it for themselves. EX: "Jack is transsexual. I heard he's getting bottom surgery next week." Bibliography Ajam Media Collective. “Recovering Arab Trans History: Masoud El Amaratly, the Folk Music Icon from Iraq’s Marshes.” Ajam Media Collective, June 26, 2023. https://ajammc.com/2023/06/26/iraq-trans-history-masoud-amaratly/. genderkoolaid. “Oh Yeah.” Tumblr, August 8, 2023. https://genderkoolaid.tumblr.com/post/725139055619276800/recovering-arab-trans-history-masoud-el-amaratly. Fandom.com. “Gender Wiki,” 2023. https://gender.fandom.com/wiki/Gender_Wiki. McLean, Tui. “The Last of Albania’s ‘Sworn Virgins.’” BBC.com. BBC News, December 10, 2022. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-63904744 Nonbinary.wiki. “Gender-Variant Identities Worldwide - Nonbinary Wiki,” 2022. https://nonbinary.wiki/wiki/Gender-variant_identities_worldwide Nonbinary.wiki. “Man - Nonbinary Wiki,” 2019. https://nonbinary.wiki/wiki/Man. Trans Male Resources. “Terminology | Trans Male Resources,” 2016. https://www.transmaleresources.com/terminology.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT, for short) is a method many trans guys undertake to alleviate gender dysphoria. Typically, HRT is comprised of taking synthetic testosterone (colloquially known as "T") in either injections or a topical gel. There are many effects that happen to the body when taking synthetic testosterone, though medical research about T is still in its infancy. There is no one or "correct" way to take T. The dosage and application method are entirely up to the individual and their care provider. Below is information consolidated from medical professionals and real trans guys on their experiences taking testosterone. No one at the Trans Guy Archive is a medical professional and nothing on this page should be interpreted as explicit medical advice. If you have serious medical questions, contact your doctor or care provider. A short history of HRT Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT, for short) has not been widely available for most of human history. Only during the 20th century were scientists and doctors able to synthesize the hormones to create artificial (but still effective) hormone replacements. Initially, drugs such as Premarin were made from pregnant horse urine, though Premarin is typically prescribed to cisgender women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Many forms of synthetic hormones are derived from natural origins, though many are are entirely lab-created. With testosterone in particular, the first recorded instance of it being synthesized was in 1935 by Adolf Butenandt in Germany (2). Previously, synthetic masculinization had been observed in experiments where animal testes were transplanted onto other animals. While he may have not been the very first, Dr. Michael Dillon was among early candidates for masculinizing HRT, obtaining a prescription in 1939. Dr. Dillon is also notable for being the first ever recorded trans man to undergo gender confirmation surgery (aka 'bottom surgery'). Currently, synthetic testosterone is usually widely available. Many high-performing athletes and movie stars take forms of synthetic testosterone (which typically have a host of names: "test", "gear", "roids", etc.). For the average trans guy, testosterone is available via prescription from a doctor/endocrinologist. Sources: Rostom, Mary, Ranjith Ramasamy, and Taylor P. Kohn. “History of Testosterone Therapy through the Ages.” International journal of impotence research, November 2023. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35075296/. Salvo, Victor. “Dr. Michael Dillon - Nominee.” Legacy Project Chicago. Accessed September 4, 2025. https://legacyprojectchicago.org/person/michael-dillon. Vance, Dwight A. “Premarin: The Intriguing History of a Controverisal Drug.” International journal of pharmaceutical compounding, July 2007. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23974785/. Effects of masculinizing HRT The Physical Your skin will become thicker and more oily as your pores largen and oil production increases The smell of your sweat and urine may change. Typically your sweat becomes 'muskier' smelling. Fat deposits in certain parts of your body will begin to redistribute. Typically, fat in your thighs and butt will shift toward your abdomen (stomach). This can help you look less curvy, though your bone structure will not change, with some rare exceptions. Your breasts may shrink a little and become a bit saggy. This is due to the lower amount of estrogen in the area. Gaining muscle will become easier! With the right diet and exercise, many trans guys taking testosterone find their legs and arms have more muscle definition, often with more prominent veins and a slightly rougher appearance. Your eyes and face may begin to change shape as fat redistributes. Many trans guys taking testosterone experience "tom cat-ification" where their cheeks become very round for a while as their body adapts to the initial changes. Your vocal chords will begin to thicken and your voice will begin to drop, akin to how cisgender boys' voices drop during puberty. Your voice early on testosterone may sound squeaky or similar to a vocal fry, but voice training can slowly fix this. Issues of vocal fry may resolve itself on its own after taking testosterone for many years. Your voice will begin to drop within a few weeks of starting testosterone and will not reach full maturity for at least 5 years. Body hair will become more prominent. Hair on your chest, back, and arms will increase in thickness and will become darker. It will also grow at a quicker rate than before. You MAY develop male pattern baldness if other cisgender men in your family also have the condition. Unfortunately, male pattern baldness is not curable, but can be treated with topical medications such as finasteride, minoxidil, etc. Even if you do not experience male pattern baldness, hair thinning on the front of your scalp is relatively common. You may begin growing facial hair. This result varies heavily from person to person and each person's facial hair will have different degrees of thickness and coverage. Starting testosterone later in life (40 and above) may result in less overall facial hair growth than those who start at younger ages. Using hair growth treatments like minoxidil may promote the growth of facial hair, though be warned that minoxidil is extremely toxic to household pets! There may be vaginal dryness and partial atrophy of the vaginal walls. Not everyone experiences dryness to the same degree. It can be temporarily treated with a water-based lubricant, or treated long-term with a topical estrogen cream - don't worry, the cream isn't strong enough to 'undo' the effects of testosterone. Eventually, you may see menstruation slow and/or eventually totally cease. If you experience spotting/bleeding randomly after not experiencing it for a while, talk to your doctor. Some trans guys taking testosterone may not experience a cessation of menses at all. Ironically, an excess of testosterone may return your periods, so it is important to keep to your prescribed dosage. After a short time, your clitoris will begin to lengthen and widen. It will also increase in sensitivity. Many people experience uncomfortable chafing against their underwear as the clitoris grows (often referred to as "bottom growth"). Most trans guys taking testosterone will average 1 to 2 inches of erection after growth slows. The size of your growing clitoris depends on genetics. Some 'pump' their clitorises in an effort to increase their size, though it is not confirmed that will make a long-term difference. The Mental You will begin to experience emotions differently. Many trans guys taking testosterone report increased anger, depression, and anxiety. Thankfully, these are all manageable symptoms. Taking testosterone will NOT make you permanently angry, depressed, etc. Many report these feelings lessening the longer they've been on HRT and with external help (e.g. medication/therapy). Your libido will skyrocket, especially for those on higher doses. You will frequently become aroused, even by small things. You may find that different things arouse you than prior to starting testosterone. Your kinks and tastes in people may also change. Many trans guys taking testosterone report feeling a stronger romantic/sexual attraction to men/masculinity while taking HRT. Orgasms will feel different. Rather than a pleasant, whole-body rush, the pleasant feeling may feel entirely consolidated in your clitoris, lending to the feeling of being "shot" with pleasure. Your appetite will increase. You may often feel ravenous, or that you're hungrier more frequently than you were prior to taking the medication. There is not a specific reasoning why this is, though take caution with overeating. It's very easy to eat with your eyes first. Potential Risks No medication comes without potential risks. Weigh the risks with your doctor or care provider before starting testosterone. Take note that these are POTENTIAL risks. There is a chance you will not experience any of these, but it doesn't hurt to stay vigilant. Testosterone HRT is not birth control. It may lessen your ability to become pregnant, but as long as you have your uterus and ovaries (and were not completely sterile to begin with), there is a chance of conceiving if you have sex with a person capable of producing sperm. If you are looking to conceive a child, your doctor will instruct you to stop taking testosterone, as the medication is fatal to the fetus. You are still able to take birth control, including non-hormonal kinds. You are also still able to take "day-after" types of birth control like Plan-B (though as an external precaution, medications like Plan-B have a weight limit). It is unclear if testosterone HRT contributes to an increased risk of high cholesterol and heart disease. Unfortunately, long-term studies are lacking. If you and/or your family has a risk of these conditions, talk to your doctor about ways to mitigate risks. Testosterone may make your blood thicker, otherwise known as a high hematocrit count. This can potentially lead to a stroke, heart attack, or other conditions relating to the heart. If you and/or your family has a risk of these conditions, talk to your doctor about ways to mitigate risks. It does not appear that testosterone HRT increases the risk of cancer to the uterus, ovaries, or breasts. However, data is still limited and caution should still be considered. During top surgery, they do not remove 100% of the breast tissue, so there is still a theoretical risk of breast cancer. Cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (aka HPV). HPV is transmitted sexually, though some may contract it via other methods. It is important to screen for cervical cancer, though the HPV vaccine can greatly reduct your risk. While you do not have a prostate (to the extent someone AMAB does), there is emerging research surrounding a sort of "pseudo-prostate" that trans guys taking testosterone begin to grow while on testosterone HRT. It is currently unclear if trans guys who have been on HRT for an extended time have to screen for prostate cancer. If you have had one or both of your ovaries removed, it is critical to remain on at least a low dosage of hormones until the age of 50. This will help your bones to remain strong and avoid osteoporosis. Some autoimmune conditions can improve or worsen, as well as migraines. The science behind this is currently unclear. Talk to your doctor or care provider with any overlapping concerns. SOME EFFECTS OF TESTOSTERONE ARE IRREVERSIBLE. These include: hair loss on your scalp, voice deepening, facial and body hair growth, and clitoral enlargement. Otherwise, every other effect is reversible (though results may vary). YOU CANNOT PICK AND CHOOSE WHAT EFFECTS YOU GET. As annoying as this may be, taking testosterone is similar to a regular genetic lottery. For example, if you don't like having facial hair you can shave/laser it off, but it won't stop growing. MICRODOSING TESTOSTERONE WILL NOT PREVENT SPECIFIC EFFECTS FROM HAPPENING. Microdosing HRT is not "I'm only going to get [X]% of effects". It is more like "I'm going to get 100% of my intended effects, but at a rate of [X]%". For example, if you are genetically predisposed to male pattern baldness, microdosing testosterone will not 100% prevent it, but it will slow the rate at which it inevitably happens to you. Timeline of masculinizing effects Below is a table showing the expected onset of mental and physical effects from taking testosterone HRT. Remember these are expected timelines. Some people see changes early, others see them much later. This is a general guide to when you should expect to see changes. You also may not experience every change on this list. What dosage is right for me? Unfortunately, there is no "one dosage fits all" criteria. Those wishing for a more binary transition may have a higher/more frequent dosing schedule than those who only wish to change things subtly. You can typically choose between injectable testosterone or have it in a topical gel form. Dosing is entirely up to you and what you wish to get out of HRT. Consult the chart below regarding what "level" of dosing you may prefer when speaking to your doctor. They may recommend a different dose to start you out on. Injections vs. Gel !!SECTION WIP!! !!SECTION WIP!!

"Basic" information anyone interested in a FTM-style transition should know. Trans Resources; The Basics "The Basics" is a page for resources that the majority of trans guys will need at some point in their transition journey. Feel free to take whatever information you deem relevant to yourself. Remember - there is no one single way to transition! These resources are being constantly updated! If you have new information to contribute, please head to the Contact page and reach out! Most of these pages are works-in-progress! Fashion & Makeup Some say clothes make the man. In some cases, it's more literal. Learning how to dress is hard for anyone, regardless of gender -- so is learning how to make the face up to appear more masculine. Below are different ways to help build a more masculine look. Usually, clothes, makeup, hair, etc, are the first steps in every trans person's journey, so it's a good idea to start here. This page includes information/resources on binders, stand-to-pee devices, packers, and so on. Click here for more... Legal Paperwork Okay, you've overhauled your wardrobe and cut your hair. What's next? Many trans guys opt to have their name, gender marker, and birth certificate changed to more accurately represent their identity. Navigating legal paperwork can be a hassle and a half. Depending on where you live, it can be as easy as finding the right forms and attaching a couple stamps. If you have resources for your state/country, let us know! Click here for more... Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) While obviously not mandatory nor a "requirement", many trans guys take testosterone hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to physically align their body to their identity. There is no right or wrong way to take "T" (testosterone). Click here for more... WIP Surgery For some, surgery is the last step in their transition. Others never pursue it. Surgery is an intimate decision that should always be given a heavy amount of consideration. Navigating the ups and downs of surgery can be scary for many people. A lot of misinformation about FTM (female-to-male) surgery exists on the internet, spread by TERFs and other bigots alike. It remains the duty of this page to alleviate those fears through education. Click here for more... WIP

Transcription: A YOUNG WOMAN was arrested a day or two ago in New York City charged with the offense of being dressed in male attire. She had worn her disguise for fifteen months, during which time she had been clerk in a large and popular restaurant and in a dry goods store. There is no accusation that she had behaved improp-erly or that she was immodest or incom-petent. She had dressed in male costume in order to secure better pay than she could as a woman. By her disguise she was enabled to earn nine dollars per week, which was about double what she could have hoped to secure as a woman. For this offense she was arraigned as a cul-prit in a police court, and the papers speak of it as "startling" that she could have so long concealed her sex. It is a striking commentary upon the relative status of men and women, that a woman can only secure the same pay which would be given a man for similar work, by concealing her identity in pantaloons. The moment her sex is discovered, no matter how sati[s]factory her services have heretofore been, she is immediately ta-booed--and her pay greatly reduced, if allowed to retain her situation at all. Is it any wonder so many young women deliberately sell their souls to the devil? It is about the only fair and square mar-ket which is offered them. From the St. Paul Daily Globe , February 20th, 1882. Courtesy of the Digital Transgender Archive. Last updated: January 12th, 2026.

Transcription: Note: During the 18th century, it was common for newspapers to replace the "s" with a "f". The transcription below has replaced the original instances of "f" with the modern "s" for easier reading. NEWPORT, July 30. His Honor the Governor has been plea[s]ed to i[ss]ue a Warrant for convening the General A[ss]embly ; which, in P[?]r[s]uance thereof, is to meet here this Day, We hear from the Vineyard, that one Deborah Lewis, of that Place, about 32 Years of Age, who, 'til a few Days [s]ince, con[flnnily?] appeared in the Female Dre[s]s, and was always [s]uppo[s]ed to be one of the Sex, [s]uddenly threw off that Garb, and a[ss]umed the Habit of a Man ; and, [s]ufficiently to demon[s]trate the Reality of this la[s]t Appearance, is on the Point of marrying a Widow Woman. A Cutter, in the King's Service, arrived here la[s]t Sa-turday from New-York. Capt. Willet Carpenter, bound to the Coa[s]t of Africa, [s]ailed la[s]t Friday ; but having [s]prung his Ma[s]t, and the Ve[ss]el proving leaky, he was obliged to put back, and arrived Ye[s]terday. From the Newport Mercury, July 30th, 1764. Courtesy of the Digital Transgender Archive. Last updated: January 7th, 2026.

Table of Contents Primary sources IN MAN'S ATTIRE TENANTS AN ARK STORY OF A MODERN ROSALIND Babe Bean's life in [his/their] own words A Lucky Disaster Babe Bean: The Lady who Wears Male Attire Recovers her Speech Miss Babe Bean Baby Bean A Bonny Boy All newspaper clippings come from California, unless otherwise stated. Transcription: IN MAN'S ATTIRE TENANTS AN ARK "Babe" Bean of Stock-ton Proves to Be a Woman. --- Has For Weeks Inhabited a Small Craft on Mc-Leods Lake. --- Substituted Male Garb for Skirts In Order to Obtain Work Readily. --- STOCKTON, Cal., Aug 23. -- One of the strangest cases that have come under the eyes of the local police is that of a pretty, dark-haired girl who is mas-querading as a boy, and whose life his-tory would give the novelist a plot for one of the most readable books of the age. "Babe" Bean is the name she has gone by, but what her real name is she alone knows, and she is not likely to divulge is, as she claims to come from one of the best families in the land. Born in the South, "Babe" Bean has the dark hair and full mouth that tell of love and music, adventure and pleasure. She is passionately fond of music and was on her way to church in boy's attire just to hear the music when Detectives Carroll and Klench told her that they would like to have some explanation of her strange freak, and took Miss Bean with them to see Chief of Police Gall. The girl in men's clothes came off best in her encounter with the officers, as she was posted on the law governing such cases. To the officers Miss Bean said that she reached this city on July 17, and that she had lived ever since in an ark on the banks of McLeods Lake. She disclaimed any intention of violating any law, and said that she preferred to travel in male attire, as her chances for procuring work were made better. All this she said on paper, for the girl-boy cannot talk. The police though that Miss Bean was shamming when she drew out her little notebook and answered with her pencil the question put to her. They found out, however, that she has not spoken to a soul since she has been in Stockton, and that she always makes her wants known be means of her pencil. This she uses with a rapidity that would be the envy of any shorthand reporter. What she says on paper, too, is always written in the best of English, and it is evident that Miss Bean has generally traveled in the better walks of life. From The San Francisco Call newspaper, August 24th, 1897. Courtesy of the Digital Transgender Archive. Back to Top Transcription: STORY OF A MODERN ROSALIND Strange Adventures of a Girl Who Roams in Male Attire. --- MISS BEAN WRITES OF HER LIFE --- Her Experiences of the Pas[t] Few Years Portrayed in Her Own Words --- CAMPED ON MOUNTAIN HEIGHTS ALONE --- Two-Sided Lives of Some Men She Has Met in Metropolitan Clubrooms. --- STOCKTON, Cal., Aug 26 -- For a month past one of the arks on McLeods Lake in this city has been the abiding place of one of the strangest characters that the local authorities have ever had to deal with. For some time it was known to them that there was a woman living in Stockton in the garb of a man, but try as they would to locate her their efforts were without avail until Sunday night, when, as has been heretofore described in THE CALL Police Detectives Carroll and Klech overtook Miss Ban masquerading in make attire while on her way to church to listen to the music. Music this modern Rosa-lind is passionately fond of, and she will go miles to hear anything in the musical line. The story of her experience with the officers has already been related. To them she told very little of her past, but to THE CALL correspondent last night Miss Bean chatted on paper for hours. She has not the power of speech, but her hearing is keen. The police were of the opinion that she was shamming dumbness, but they are now convinced that the erratic young woman cannot talk. When the in-terviewer intimated that he believed she could talk if she wanted to Miss Bean burst into tears and declared on paper that her loss of speech was an affliction so keenly felt by her that it wrenched her heart whenever touched upon. "Babe" Bean, as she calls herself, said that she was nearly 20 years old and that when but 15 she married a man who did not treat her as he should, and after a few months of married life she was sep-arated from him, to drift about the world in the garb of a man. Last night she wrote the following for THE CALL, and while writing the tears welled up in the eyes of the pretty girl and the deep red lips trembled when the writing of some portions of her history recalled incidents of her early life. This is her remarkable story: Has love had anything to do with my pres-sent mode of living? Such a question to ask! Listen and judge for yourself: My first recollections of loving anyone is of a dark, handsome and noble face, with honor stamped upon every feature--a soldier; to me a hero. Who call chide me for living such a one? 'Twas my father. Mingie with this the sunny smiles of one of the fairest, sweetest and purest of God's women (my mother) and you have what is to me the dearest picture that ever graced a piece of canvas or "hunh on memory's walls." This, sir, has been the only love I knew which has been the doing or undoing of a lifetime. I was always a happy child, but seldom so now. My mother I can only remember as a lady of elegance and refinement--gentle always, but proud and firm. I loved her with all my heart; but to me she was like an idol, and I feared even to talk to her at times lest my rough manner might offend her. Strange way for a child to think, you will say, but none the less it was so. Consequently this forced me to lean more toward my father. Though whenever was partial he seemed to understand me better, and with his death my spirit died too. From a tomboy full of am-bitions I was made into a sad and thoughtful woman. From that time I grew heartless. I wanted to be out in the air always. A desire for liberty and freedom took such a hold upon me that at night, when we were all asleep, I would get up and wander about in our imme-diate grounds as if in search of something I could not tell what. Shortly after this I commenced to grow re-bellion--took interest in nothing save in lis-tening to some caller telling of the wonders of the world. Oh, if I were but a boy! Just to be able to see all these beautiful things! What would I not have given? Mother and father had traveled extensively, and in narrating their experiences little did they dream that they were laying the first stones upon which my strange like was to be built. My mother feared for my future. I must here say we had become and had been for some time reduced in circumstances, and only in late years have I realized the sacrifices that must have been made in order to keep me at school. Nothing but a conven[t?]: could save me, thought my mother, and there I re-mained. How I yearned for the freedom I had dreamed of and how often I wished I could enjoy the liberty that the world sees fit to allow a boy! I was left in the entire charge of the good sisters, who did much to make me happy under the circumstances, and sad, too, I can tell you. My brother visited me every vacation, and I am glad to say he loved me so that he often made vacations in order to see me. What would I not give for one of our old-time romps! I dressed in his clothes (for punish-ment, mind you) and he in mine. With wry faces we were inwardly tickled to death. Nothing ever pleased me better than to get this sort of punishment. Poor boy! With a tender, generous and loving disposition he was easily led, and with growing manhood he commenced to evince extravagant tastes, to-gether with a desire, like myself, to roam. I mention him as it has much to do with my life. His visits to the convent grew less frequent, which caused me much pain, until he came only occasionally, and then always accompanied by one of his schoolmates, a rather quiet, unassuming sort of chap. The day came when the latter would call alone, not-withstanding the objections raised by the sisters. It was about Christmas vacation and I was given permission to spend the holi-days with friends. What joy, to again be away from all study and work and no play. What plans I had mapped out for seeing my brother and his friend. The day came when I was the false friend without the brother. He--the friend--was about to go abroad. The dream of my life awakened with a vim worthy of a better cause. Was I doomed to always hear of people would could travel and go about the world? Was I never to have my great wish gratified? "No," came the answer always, "how can you? Remember circum-stances will not permit it." Well, then, how could our friend do so, he had no more than we? Oh, yes; he was to work part of the time. Well, I could not see what should prevent me from doing the same. Well, sir, from that moment it was my sole thought. I told no one of the good people with whom I was stopping, but went and con-fided to my brother's chum. He thought it would be capital fun to get me to do such a foolish thing; and (I blush to say it) he suc-ceeded very well. In two weeks we were married. Suffice it to say that it was the cause of sep-arating me from my family and friends. We traveled some six or eight months, and then separated. What I have suffered for that act no one can ever know. Shortly afterward my brother was taken ill and he, too, died. I had seen him but once. With this last blow mother retired, to lead as quiet a life as could be offered, in a place away from former scenes of both bright and dark days. She made some provision for me, and I was then quiet alone. From that moment I have been like driftwood, tossed upon the sea of life. But in no other way I could have been contented. My greatest misfortune then befell me, and when able to go about again I always did so, when I could in the guise of a boy. I had always loved horses and rode frequently, al-ways astride, as I found it the most convenient and comfortable by far. I observed that I was always taken for a boy while in my "rather boyish riding habit," though to make up as one had never struck me any more than to go about on my horse at whatever hour I wished without attracting much attention. I com-menced then to go about in search of adven-ture, always assuming my natural dress when in cities or when I made any long stays at places. My first was of so strange a nature that I think it worth the while to relate. I had gone from San Jose to Alma--a place consisting of a handful of houses--and then footed it, camping all the way, twenty miles into the Santa Cruz Mountains. The scenery I can hardly describe, but it seemed to me like some grand painting. The night before I reached my destination, Bights Way, I remained in a deserted woodchopper's cabin over night. With my inseparable companion, a revolver, I laid down to rest, with the only thought of being able to reach some brook or streamlet in some sheltered spot that I might indulge in the luxury of a bath. To these thoughts I at-tribute a dream that seemed like a prophecy. I thought I was standing on the brink of some dark abyss, when I beheld on the other side the most inviting and pretty miniature waterfalls with a stream some seven or ten feet below, but how was I to reach this? I certainly could not cross this awful black space. While musing thus I seemed by some unknown power to be taken to the spot oppo-site. For a moment I was almost blinded by the sudden change from darkness into light, but soon recovered sufficiently to notice that I had yet another stream to cross. On looking closer I was it was the same one I had noticed a few feet below the falls. Now my dilemma was, how could I reach the falls? What was that I noticed! It looked like a gold bracelet--such as we see encircling the wrists of women in pictures belonging to the middle ages. Well, this must have been the favorite spot of some fair bather. I will try to reach it, and perchance I might meet with the one who lost the band; and how glad she must be, I thought to myself, upon having it restored to her. I could not get it though, as I could not cross to where the water seemed shallow, and I could have waded in. With one mor effort I managed to just move it, and then I awoke. The morning was beautiful and all should have made one happy in the thought of being in such gorgeous surroundings, but I felt depressed as though something was going to happen. I could not shake this feeling off, and after making a breakfast of fruit and milk, that I had packed with me, I wended my way fur-ther up the mountain. One reaching the sum-mit I stood as one transfixed, for behold! there was the very stream I had been unable to cross in my dream! I stood looking down with awe into its depths as I beheld the very bracelet I had dreamed of. Who can say that the hand of fate was not in this? I threw my baggage across to the other side, intending to jump over. But I was spell-bound, as I seemed to know for the first time in my life what fear was. Surely I could not yet be awake, but all showed me plainly that I was very much that way. A hurried glance through my dressing-case brought out a look-ing-glass. Well, wi[ll?] I ever forget the expres-sion upon my face. I was trembling like a leaf, scare[l?]y daring to move. With a superhuman effort I determined to gain the bracelet at all hazards. I used my fishing-pole, which I had kept with me, as a staff and touched the golden circlet. It seemed even more beautiful in reality than it did in my dreams. I caught it in such a way that it seemed safe to draw up the pole. I did so and to my utter amazement and horror I found it to be a snake ni the mouth of a water dog. Try to imagine, if you can stretch your imagination so far, what I must have expe-rienced upon seeing this. Wasn't this too awful? This spot was well known to all lovers of sport in or about the vicinity of San Jose. This was the most terrible of all my experi-ences. As many equally pleasant ones I have had and some doubly interesting. One of about the same time occurred between Colfax and Auburn. I had camped out for seven weeks--one of my most pleasant trips--and was close to a place I thought occupied by good law-abiding woodchoppers. We could always pass each other with a salute, for one of the two men who lived here was accustomed to driving livestock back and forth, and I had many an occasion to pass him on the road. I soon discovered a striking resemblance and came to the conclusion that they were broth-ers. The smaller of the two was always kind. He showed me his kindness by offering me a horse to ride. I used to take the liberty of riding it while he was away, but not when he would make the offer. Then came a day when I thought it wise to leave, and a few days after I saw an account in one of the Auburn papers of an attempt to wreck or derail a train at Colfax. Who but my late neighbors were the culprits! The crowbar they used I had often seen. I have wondered if, should I have remained, I too might not have been arrested as an accom-plice. There is no place of interest scarcely from Blue Lakes to Los Angeles that I have not seen in a shorter time than it takes to tell it. While in the City of San Francisco I visited every place of any note, even to Chinatown. I saw and played lottery on several occasions, as I went the second time because I won in the first--something like the story of the moth. I found the people like semi-barbarians, but of a most interesting type. As a natural outcome of my roaming I have been thrown much in the company of men in all walks of life. I once attended some "jinks" where men who were accustomed to flatter and pay pretty tribute to their lady acquaintances took advantage of their exclu-sion to make fun of the ladies and in the most ungentlemanly manner criticize some one of their failings. These society bellies were undergoing the most humiliating crit-cisms and still were not aware of it. I wet with one Mr. Myer formerly of Myers & Co., tobacco importers of St. Louis, Mo. I venture to give his name though as he has since passed away, thinking some one of those pres-ent may recall the affair, which took place on Christmas eve in 1892. I must confess that, no matter where I have been, I have met with good and noble men--the kind you read about. The world is full of them, as it is with pure and noble women; but while the world goes on we shall hear more of evil than good. So it will be in the case of good men and women; they will not be mentioned while a morsel of tempting scandal is left to serve the ever eager throng of people we call mankind. Were the good deeds of our true men and women more freely discussed, both around the family circle and by the press, the appetite and craving for what is vulgar, course and sensational would soon die out, or at least become diminished. In a few days Miss Bean will be speed-ing across the continent in search of other scenes, for she much dislikes the notoriety her discovery has brought about. From The San Francisco Call newspaper, August 27th, 1897. Covers dates from 1892 to 1897. Courtesy of the Digital Transgender Archive. Back to Top Transcription: A Lucky Disaster STOCKTON, May 10. --The Mall this evening has an account of an accident which happened to Babe Bean, the mys-terious lady who wears male attire. A runaway team ran into her buggy two miles from Sonora. The tongue of the wagon struck her and she was thrown from her buggy Miss Bean sent a dispatch today to a friend of hers in Stockton stating that she is overjoyed at the accident, because it re-sulted in the complete restoration of her power of speech. The lady in question says that she lost her voice over five years ago during a fit of anger. From The Herald newspaper, May 11th, 1898. Courtesy of the Digital Transgender Archive. Babe Bean: The Lady Who Wears Male Attire Recovers Her Speech [This newspaper clipping contains the same content as "A Lucky Disaster", except for some minor punctuation edits.] From The Herald newspaper, May 11th, 1898. Courtesy of the Digital Transgender Archive. Back to Top Transcription: Miss Babe Bean The Mysterious Lady Who Wears Male Attire Miss Babe Bean, the mysterious lady who wears male attire, and has been unable to speak for five years, was thrown from her buggy near Stockton. The accident restored her voice. From The Argus newspaper (Arizona), May 21st, 1898. Courtesy of the Digital Transgender Archive. Back to Top Transcription: BABY BEAN A BONNY BOY --- Journalistic Adventures a Stowaway on City of Para. --- In Man's Clothes She Travels From San Francisco En Route to Manilla--Put Ashore in Honolulu. --- She looked every inch a man when she came ashore in Hono-lulu from the transport City of Para a day or two ago, with a large black slouch hat shading her comely features and matching her close cropped hair, a black cut-away coat and shining patent leathers giving her quiet a stylish appearance and her many car-riage dispelling any suspicion of femininity that might be aroused by her womanly hands and feet. Bertie Bean, better known as "Babe Bean" is a journalist and believes in getting the news at any price; she wanted to go to Manila as correspondent for certain New York and San Francisco papers, so donned man's apparel and went aboard the City of Para in San Francisco just before the transport sailed for Honolulu. There were several civilians aboard and Babe Bean's presence was not remarked. She took her mess with the soldiers and slept on deck and spent her time writ-ing. It was not until a day or two before the Para got into this port that Babe was discovered aboard; then it was her turn to be vacin-ated. She had to undergo that formality with the rest and was consequently exposed much to her confusion. If it had not been for the vacin-ation, Babe would have had her passage to Manila assured; as it is, however, the lady was put ashore here, where she immdiate-ly set about securing a passage to the Philippines . San Francisco papers have re-corded some of Miss Bean's form-er exploits in the newspaper line, she will get to Manila if previous adventures are any indication. Miss Bean was at one time a famous girl detective and has also been connected with the Stockton Mail. Babe has friends in Honolulu who speak well of her merits as a journalist. From the Evening Bulletin newspaper (Honolulu & Oahu, Hawaii), October 17th, 1899. Courtesy of the Digital Transgender Archive. Back to Top Last updated: January 4th, 2026.