GIANT NEGRO

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20107, 29 November 1939, Page 8

GIANT NEGRO

HEIGHT EXCEEDS 8 FEET DWARF AS COMPANION Weighing a mere 34st. 41b. and standing Bft. 2in. in his socks, Willie Camper, a genial youth from Memphis, Tennessee, was among the more noticeable passengers who arrived at Auckland by the Monterey from San Francisco. He was especially noticeable, for at his side trotted his close friend. Isom Thomas, of Arkansas, who is barely 45in. in height. Both are American negroes.

For the average person shaking hands with Willie requires an action somewhat similar to an upright Fascist salute. The visitor’s hand is then gently engulfed in a massive fist measuring 11 in. across the palm. li Isom is greeted immediately after the visitor must drop his arm about. 91) degrees. Aged only 17, Willie admits that he is still a growing youth, whom doctors predict will eventually reach 9ft. in height. He certainly should build up on the meals he eats. A favourite dish in steak and eggs—four steaks and a dozen eggs. Which, as Willie says, does the primary producers a lot of good.

Footwear is another line in which lie helps to bund up industry. Willie takes size 32 in boots. They are about 21 in. long and almost the same in height. His trousers would probably hold a normal man in each leg.

One of the chief problems of life as far as Willie is concerned is the question of negotiating doorways. He is always hitting his head and his forehead is constantly sore. Beds are another difficulty, but this question was solved on the Monterey by the provision of a special berth 9ft. tiin. long. About Isom, who is 33, there are also some interesting facts and figures. In his own words, however, the figures may easily be arrived at by dividing the corresponding totals for Willie by four.