How Did Robert Wadlow Died?

Robert Wadlow, also known as the Alton Giant and the Giant of Illinois, was the tallest person in recorded history. At a towering height of 8 ft 11.1 in (2.72 m), he captivated the world with his extraordinary stature. However, the circumstances of his untimely death have left many wondering about the cause of Robert Wadlow’s death.

Tragically, on July 15, 1940, at the age of 22, Wadlow passed away in his sleep at the Hotel Chippewa in Manistee, Michigan. The cause of his death was a septic blister on his right ankle, which developed from a poorly-fitted iron brace he wore to support his legs. Despite receiving medical treatment, including emergency surgery and a blood transfusion, Wadlow’s condition worsened due to an autoimmune disease.

The circumstances surrounding Robert Wadlow’s death highlight the challenges he faced due to his extraordinary height. His passing shocked the world and serves as a reminder of the exceptional life he led.

The Life of Robert Wadlow

Robert Wadlow, the Alton Giant and the Giant of Illinois, was born on February 22, 1918, in Alton, Illinois. As the oldest of five children, he quickly surpassed his father’s height by the age of 8, setting the stage for an extraordinary life.

Despite his remarkable stature, Wadlow led a relatively normal life. He attended school like any other child, although a special desk had to be made to accommodate his towering height. Wadlow’s thirst for knowledge extended beyond high school, as he enrolled in Shurtleff College with the ambition of studying law.

Wadlow became a celebrity in his own right, captivating audiences with his appearances at the Ringling Brothers Circus and becoming the face of the International Shoe Company, where he showcased their footwear. His immense physical strength and dynamic personality made him a beloved figure, admired by countless individuals.

Throughout his life, Robert Wadlow remained active and engaged. Despite the challenges posed by his extraordinary height, he embraced his circumstances and lived to the fullest. His spirit and determination serve as an inspiration to this day.

The Funeral and Legacy of Robert Wadlow

Following Robert Wadlow’s untimely death, his body was returned to his hometown of Alton, Illinois, where he was laid to rest in Oakwood Cemetery. To accommodate his extraordinary height, a specially constructed massive steel coffin, weighing over 1,000 lbs (453 kg), was used. The funeral drew an astonishing crowd of approximately 40,000 people, a testament to the impact Wadlow had on the world.

In an effort to protect his grave from potential grave-robbers, Wadlow’s family took precautions by sealing it with solid concrete. While most of his belongings were destroyed to prevent them from becoming macabre memorabilia, his family managed to preserve a pair of his shoes. These shoes are proudly on display at Snyder’s Shoes in Manistee, Michigan, allowing visitors to catch a glimpse of Wadlow’s remarkable footwear.

Robert Wadlow’s legacy is not confined to the boundaries of his grave. In his honor, a life-size bronze statue was erected in Alton, Illinois. This statue serves as a perpetual reminder of Wadlow’s astonishing height and enduring spirit, ensuring that his impact on history and the fascination surrounding his life will continue to captivate generations to come.