Robert Wadlow was born in Alton on February 22, 1918, the first-born of Addie and Harold Wadlow. While he was born an average size, Wadlow started growing at a rapid pace as a toddler, already reaching 5’4” by the age of 5. By the time he was 10, Wadlow was already 6’5” and 210 pounds.

Wadlow’s extreme height was due to an over-active pituitary gland that created high levels of growth hormones. At the time, there was no medical treatment available to stem the high levels of hormones. Wadlow would grow to 8’11” by the age of 22.

Even with his extreme height, Wadlow lived a normal life. He was active in the Boy Scouts and traveled across the country with his father while working for the International Shoe Company. The “Gentle Giant” as he was known to many passed away 75 years ago this week and is buried in Upper Alton Cemetery.

Learn more:
Robert Wadlow, World’s Tallest Man
Robert Pershing Wadlow – Alton Museum of History and Art