Willie Camper
One of the tallest humans in recorded history
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Guicel "Willie" Camper (October 1, 1924 – April 30, 1943) was an American man and performer who is notable for being the fourth verified tallest man in medical history to have reached the height of 8 feet (240 cm) or more. At the time of his death at the age of 18, his death certificate reached the height of 8 ft 2 in (2.49 m) which disputes his 8 ft 7 in claim.[2] He also wore size 32 shoes.[2] He is the 2nd tallest recorded African-American, though likely being the tallest person from the time after Robert Wadlow's death. Robert was 8 ft 11 in, making him roughly 9 inches taller than Willie.[3][4][5]
October 1, 1924
- The Giant
- Big Willie
- Willie
Willie Camper | |
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| Born | Guicel Camper October 1, 1924 Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. |
| Died | April 30, 1943 (aged 18) Martinez, California, U.S. |
| Other names |
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| Occupation | Performer |
| Known for | 4th tallest verified man and 2nd tallest African-American in history |
| Height | 8 ft 2 in (2.49 m)[1] |
Life
Camper was born in Memphis, Tennessee and his abnormal growth started around the age of nine. As he grew older, Camper worked as a performer. His unusual growth was caused by gigantism and problems with his thyroid. Up until his death, he was said to have never stopped growing.[4]
He died of a heart attack in 1943 while performing at a sideshow in Martinez, California. He was buried in Mendenhall, Mississippi in a coffin that was 9 ft (2.7 m) long. His burial location remains largely unknown.