The Curious Case of Joseph Merrick

Unusual As Usual

Joseph Carey Merrick, often incorrectly called John Merrick, was born on 5th August 1862 in Leicester, England.

Merrick was born healthy, and had no symptoms of any disorder. However, by the age of 2 he had developed a bony lump on his forehead, swellings on his face and his skin began getting rough and coarse. So much so that in 1884, aged 22, he contacted comedian Sam Torr and persuaded him to exhibit him as a living curiosity.

The pair travelled to London and met sideshow proprietor Tom Norman who hired Merrick on the spot. It was while working for Norman under the moniker The Elephant Man that Merrick met Dr. Frederick Treves, an expert in anatomy, and renowned surgeon at London Hospital. Through his connections Dr. Treves managed to get Merrick his very own apartment on the grounds on the hospital where he was allowed t stay for the remainder of his life.

Joseph Merrick died on 11th April 1890, aged 27. He was found laying on his back with a dislocated neck. It's believed that Merrick had been attempting to sleep lying down to "be like other people.”

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Fact Analysis: Although careful research is implemented to assure accurate and correct information, sometimes it can be difficult to separate fact from fiction (or ‘humbug', as P.T. Barnum would say). If you find any information in this podcast inaccurate, please do let me know via social media.