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...
Christmas Wonderland
Nov 28 – Dec 28 @ 6PM
Begin your holiday celebration when you experience the enchantment of Christmas at the "Christmas Wonderland" holiday light display! The "Grandpa Gang" has been at it again…
Read more about Christmas WonderlandYou might also be interested...
Confederate Cemetery and Memorial
Alton
Remember those who died in the infamous Alton prison in 1863 as you visit the Confederate Cemetery and Memorial in Alton, IL.
Read more about Confederate Cemetery and Memorial
Confederate Prison Site
Alton
Visit first Illinois State Penitentiary and learn about the ghastly history of the overcrowded, often disease-infested prison. Today, it is a monument dedicated to those who…
Read more about Confederate Prison Site
Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument
Alton
Visit the monument of an amazingly persistent and inspirational freedom fighter, Elijah P. Lovejoy.
Read more about Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument