Harold Wadlow, the father of Robert Wadlow arguably one of the tallest men in history. He also has contributed his share to American history in his lifetime. Although people are aware of Harold as the man behind the “Alton Giant,” his life is an inspiring rag to riches fairy tale epitomizing the strength of character, hard work and strong family ethic in the early days of twentieth century America.

Early Life

Harold Wadlow was born in the late 1800s in Illinois; he lived during a period of much American transition. Alton, Illinois was his childhood home, where he received early lessons of determination and the meaning of true work being service.

In this active Mississippi River town, there was no excuse for not earning a living and Harold established early good business sense that guided him during his early years. Born in 1842, Harold saw firsthand the great transformation that occurred when the industrial revolution hit and small American cities began to expand.

These occurrences serve the formation of his outlook to the future business and family life. Therefore, the experience of the protagonist prepares him to the significant role of the father and the businessman within the next decades.

Career

In Alton for the insurance agency work Harold Wadlow effectively positioned himself as a successful businessman of the town. He even ran his own insurance company and showed great managements skills even during the worst of depressions including the great depression.

He had made a correct decision in choosing his occupation as such his earnings help in supporting his family especially due to Robert’s disability. Throughout his working activity, Harold continued selflessly working for his community and leveraging his business contacts to aid people and a promotion of various vital causes.

This career meant he could earn enough to feed and cater for all the needs of his family: especially the special attire, new furniture as well as special health attention that baby Robert needed.

Spouse: Addie Johnson

Addie Johnson was the wife to Harold and the couple wed to work together in a marriage that would be challenged by extraordinary circumstances. When Addie Johnson wed to Harold in 1900s she changed her name to Addie Wadlow, and they lived in the house together with their five children, including the youngest Robert Wadlow.

A main theme in the couple is core values of family and being able to change when society is living in very strange ways. Young Harold could not be compensated any better with Addie as his companion as they went through the trials and triumphs of raising a child that would go global for his gigantism.

Both did not burden all their children. They were raised to be loving and as a result all the kids grew up to be wonderful. Their partnership proved a strong one as they endeavored to raise a family and also chore to growing popularity of their son as a spiritual figure, while they gave equal love and care to each child.