Patrick Cotter O'Brien

Patrick O'Brien%2C a giant. Etching by A. van Assen%2C 1804%2C aft Wellcome V0007209EL

Patrick Cotter O'Brien (19 January 1760 – 8 September 1806) was an Irishman known for his exceptional height. Standing at 8 feet 1 inch (2.46 m), he was often referred to as the "Bristol Giant," after the city where he found fame. O'Brien was the first of only seventeen people in medical history to stand at a verified height of eight feet or more.

Early Life

Patrick Cotter was born in Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland. Little is known about his early life, including the heights of his parents and siblings, which has led to speculation about the genetic roots of his remarkable stature. He adopted the surname O'Brien, the name of his patron, and began to showcase himself in public for a fee due to his height.

Career

O'Brien's career as a curiosity and marvel began in his late teens. He toured Great Britain and Ireland, charging spectators to view him or to have a look at his giant boots. His fame grew, and he became a notable figure in the cities he visited. Despite his fame, O'Brien's life was marked by the challenges of his physical condition, including mobility issues and constant public scrutiny.

Legacy

Patrick Cotter O'Brien's life has been the subject of various historical and medical analyses. His remains were exhumed in the 20th century to study his skeleton, confirming his height. O'Brien's life story contributes to the understanding of medical conditions that result in extreme height and the societal reactions to physical differences.

Death and Burial

O'Brien died in 1806 at the age of 46. He was buried in St. Mary Redcliffe churchyard in Bristol. Fearing grave robbers, he was buried in a large and deep brick vault. His grave remains a point of interest for those studying the history of human anomalies and the city of Bristol's local history.