World's Tallest Man visited Dearborn Co. in 1939

(AURORA, Ind.) – Did you know the world’s tallest man once stopped in Dearborn County?

21-year-old Robert Wadlow was 8 feet 7 inches and weighed 460 pounds when he and his family visited the area on July 13, 1939.

According to the Dearborn County Historical Society, Wadlow’s wore size 36 shoes and Neff Shoe Store in Aurora was who carried them.

After stopping by the store and purchasing the shoes, the family went to the Dillsboro Health Resort to spend the night. 

“To accommodate his height, three double beds had to be put side-by-side allowing him to sleep crossways,” the historical society stated. 

Wadlow wasn’t done growing yet as he reached a height of 8 feet 11 inches. 

Sadly, he passed away from an infection at 22-years-old in July of 1940. 

Wadlow is still believed to be the tallest man who ever lived in recorded history. There is a life-size statue of him on display in his hometown of Alton, Illinois. 

Get more historical facts about Dearborn County by visiting the Dearborn County Historical Society on Facebook or at 508 West High Street in Lawrenceburg. 

Here is a photo of his visit provided by the Dearborn County Historical Society: