John Trunley
John Thomas Trunley | |
|---|---|
| Born | 14 October 1898 Camberwell, London, England |
| Died | 30 September 1944 (aged 45) England |
| Other names | The Fat Boy of Peckham |
| Occupation | Music hall performer |
| Years active | 1903–1927 |
| Known for | Being proclaimed one of the heaviest people in Britain during his youth |
John Thomas Trunley (14 October 1898 – 30 September 1944) was a British music hall and sideshow performer, widely known as The Fat Boy of Peckham.[1][2]
Early life
Trunley was born in Camberwell, London. He gained weight rapidly during infancy and reportedly weighed 2 stone (28 lb; 13 kg) at seven months old. By the age of four, he weighed approximately 12 stone (170 lb; 76 kg). He was examined by surgeon Sir Frederick Treves, who is also known for treating Joseph Merrick, the "Elephant Man".
Career
Trunley made his music hall debut in December 1903 at the Yarmouth Hippodrome, and later performed at venues including the Royal Theatre in Holborn.[3]
He became a popular novelty act and toured across England under showmen such as Fred Karno and Buffalo Bill Cody.[4]
Despite his early stage success, he was later required to attend school in Peckham. Reports from the period noted that he had a chest measurement of 44 inches (1,100 mm) and a waist measurement of 46 inches (1,200 mm) during childhood.[4]
By 1906, his fame had grown sufficiently that The Sketch published a satirical piece suggesting that London authorities might need a special tram service to transport him.[5]
After the First World War, Trunley reportedly secured minor roles in early film productions.
Personal life
Trunley married Florence Weeden (born 1899), and the couple had one child, also named John.[4]
Death
Trunley died on 30 September 1944 from pulmonary tuberculosis. He was buried at Camberwell New Cemetery.[4]
References
- ^ "The Thirty Three Stone Teen Who Rocketed to Celebrity". Southwark News. London. 15 October 2007. Archived from the original on 1 December 2017. Retrieved 17 March 2015.
- ^ Bondeson 2015, p. 28.
- ^ Will Noble (2 March 2017). "The Sad Story Of The Fat Boy Of Peckham". Londonist. Retrieved 24 June 2024.
- ^ a b c d Sheila Bruce. "John TRUNLEY aka The Fat Boy of Peckham". Retrieved 24 June 2024.
- ^ Ernest A. Bryant (5 December 1906). "After Dinner". The Sketch. London: 240.
Bibliography
- Bondeson, Jan (March 2015). "The Fat Boy of Peckham". Fortean Times (325). London. ISSN 0308-5899.