John Francis Carroll (1932 – August 8, 1969) was an American giant and one of 23 individuals in medical history confirmed to have reached a towering height of 8 feet (240 cm).
He grappled with severe two-dimensional spinal curvature, known as Kyphoscoliosis, and acromegalic gigantism. On October 14, 1959, at the age of 27, he stood at a height of 8 feet 1⁄4 inch (244 cm). However, based on calculations, his height could have been 8 feet 8 inches (264 cm), assuming a typical curvature of the spine. In 1968, he was re-measured at 7 feet 10+1⁄2 inches (240 cm) as his spinal condition had worsened, causing a reduction in his stature.
Carroll was born in Buffalo, New York, and was recognized as the Buffalo Giant in the field of medical literature. He ranked third in height only behind Robert Wadlow and John Rogan. His extraordinary growth spurt commenced when he was sixteen years old. Throughout his early life, his height continued to increase despite extensive medical treatments. At one point, he experienced a growth of eight inches (20 cm) in height within a single year. However, as his condition deteriorated, his standing height decreased.
On August 8, 1969, John Francis Carroll passed away and was laid to rest in Holy Cross Cemetery in Lackawanna, New York.
Back to the tallest people ever.
