Robert Wadlow Statue
2800 College Ave., Alton, IL 62002
Historic Sites
Visit the statue of the tallest man in the world, Alton's Gentle Giant.
In 1918, Alton became the famous birthplace of Robert Wadlow, "The Gentle Giant." Born a normal eight pounds in 1918, Wadlow suffered from a pituitary gland problem. He was almost nine feet tall and 500 pounds when he died of complications from a foot infection at age 22. He is noted in the Guinness Book of World Records as the tallest man alive. A life-sized statue on College Avenue lifts visitors' heads in amazement. The Alton Museum of History and Art has devoted an entire room to Wadlow, including his third-grade desk and oversized grade school ring.
What's happening nearby...
Alton Food Truck Festival
Alton Amphitheater • Aug 22 @ 4PM
Enjoy global street food, live music and riverfront views at the Alton Food Truck Festival! Sample favorites from food trucks across the region, plus drinks from…
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Flotsam! River Circus in Alton
Lincoln Shields Recreation Area • Aug 25 @ 6:30PM
Flotsam! River Circus returns to Alton with a free, family-friendly performance featuring live music, circus acts, and giant puppets. Bring a blanket or lawn chair, enjoy…
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Alton Jazz & Wine Festival
Alton Amphitheater • Aug 29 @ 6PM
Celebrate the legacy of Alton native Miles Davis at the Alton Jazz & Wine Festival on Aug. 29! Enjoy live jazz, local wines, food vendors and…
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