John Rogan

John Rogan

John William "Bud" Rogan (1868 – September 12, 1905) was an American man who is one of the tallest recorded individuals in history. Standing at an estimated height of 8 feet 9 inches (267 cm) at the time of his death, Rogan is the second tallest person ever recorded, after Robert Wadlow. His remarkable height was due to a condition known as gigantism, which is caused by an overproduction of growth hormone, and later developed into acromegaly as he aged.

Early Life

John Rogan was born in Sumner County, Tennessee, near the town of Gallatin. Little is known about his early life before he began to grow very rapidly from the age of 13, due to his condition. Unlike many others with similar conditions, Rogan's growth was not only in height but also in proportion, which contributed to his mobility issues later in life.

Life with Gigantism

By the age of 16, Rogan had reached a height of over 7 feet (213 cm). His growth spurt did not cease until his death, making his daily life increasingly challenging. Due to his condition, Rogan lost the ability to walk at 18 and used a wheelchair for the rest of his life. Despite his mobility issues, he was known for his cheerful disposition and his ability to craft intricate objects, such as miniature furniture, which he sold as a source of income.

Rogan's condition attracted considerable attention, but he refused offers to join the circus and freak shows, preferring to live a private life. He was cared for by his family and was well-regarded in his community.

Death and Legacy

John Rogan died in 1905 at the age of 37. His death was attributed to complications related to his condition, including infections and issues related to his immense size. Rogan's remains were buried in a specially made coffin to deter grave robbers, as there was significant interest in his body from medical communities and showmen.

Rogan's life and stature have been subjects of fascination and study in the fields of medicine and human biology. His case provides valuable insights into the effects of extreme growth and the human body's capacity to adapt to such conditions.

See Also

• Robert Wadlow
• Gigantism
• Acromegaly
• List of the tallest people