User:Joseph Merrick Tribute page

Most people who are aware of Joseph Merrick's existance, first heard of him by watching David Lynch's film, 'the Elephant Man' (1980). Since then, there have been several stage productions by the same title and even an opera.

Joseph Merrick, a.k.a. the Elephant Man, was a 19th-century Englishman who had Proteus Syndrome. Though his physical and mental suffering was great, he remained courageous, cheerful, gentle and was never bitter. Joseph's shining legacy continues.

Millions of people around the world - disabled and able-bodied, have at some time been encouraged and have found strength through reading Joseph's story, or by watching the 'Elephant Man' film. Attitudes towards those with disabilities have changed immeasurably since Joseph's days, but there is still so much room for improvement. For example, lack of public amenities, such as access points, disabled toilets, pavement (sidewalk) ramps, etc.

We cannot fail to be captivated by Joseph's incredible courage. He was also intelligent, not only able to read and write, he was eloquent. Reading was a rarity among the poorer classes one can only further admire him.

Born in Leicester, England, in 1862, he first began to develop tumors on his face before his second birthday. He lived with his Mother (Mary Jane Merrick); younger brother (William Arthur) and sister (Marion Eliza) during his childhood. His baby brother, John Thomas, died at 3 months (April to July, 1864). Mary Jane died on 19th May 1873 of bronchial-pneumonia when Joseph was just 11. According to family & eye witness accounts, she too was 'crippled'. The photo of his Mother in the film, (the Elephant Man), is that of actress, Phoebe Nicholls,

Joseph lived in several places, one of these was the Leicester Union Workhouse. Now a teenager, he was unable to make a living. The haberdashy goods, (bootlaces, boot black, etc) his father gave him to sell from door to door - wouldn't sell. His appearance drove 'would-be' customers away and he was unable to earn a crust. His father remarried and Joseph lived with the couple. The step mother treated him very unkindly. His father didn't really want him around any more and there were untold rows at home. Joseph had become an embarrassment and inconvenience to the family. Joseph was expected to walk the street, even though he could barely walk. Children would follow him from street to street. His condition worsened. His deformity continued to worsen and his health deteriorated. Also, his right hand and forearm had become large, cumbersome and useless.

He entered the Leicester Union Workhouse and ended up remaining for 7 years. He finally left, taking a job as a Sideshow 'Freak'. -

Visit the Joseph Carey Merrick tribute website, at http://www.josephcareymerrick.com for the complete fascinating story! Over 40 pages of facts, photos, graphics, articles and some other useful 19th century resources.