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Robert Wadlow... Alton, Illinois giant photos...
Robert Wadlow... Alton, Illinois giant photos...
Item # 721171
June 02, 1935
ROTOGRAVURE PHOTO SECTION only of The New York Times, June 2, 1935
* Early Robert Pershing Wadlow
* Alton, Illinois Giant (17 years old)
* Tallest man ever recorded in the World
The back page of this section has 2 photos with text showing a young Robert Wadlow at his home in Alton, Illinois. The one photo shows him with his family. (see images) He would grow another 9 inches.
Complete rotogravure section only with all 8 pages, rag edition, tiny binding holes along the spine, very nice condition.
AI notes: Robert Wadlow, born in Alton, Illinois, in 1918, remains the tallest person in recorded history, reaching an astonishing height of 8 feet 11.1 inches (2.72 meters) due to hyperplasia of his pituitary gland, which caused an unregulated overproduction of growth hormone. This rare condition led to continuous growth throughout his life, resulting in significant physical challenges, including limited mobility and reliance on leg braces and custom-made clothing and shoes (he wore a size 37AA). Despite these hardships, Wadlow was known for his calm demeanor, intelligence, and gentle personality. He became a national figure during the 1930s, touring with the Ringling Brothers Circus and later making promotional appearances for a shoe company, which helped support his family. Tragically, an infected leg brace led to septicemia, and he died at the young age of 22 in 1940. His legacy endures not only as a medical marvel but also as a symbol of resilience, with a life-size statue erected in his hometown to honor the man known as the “Alton Giant.”
Category: The 20th Century
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$62.00
