Charles Byrne, a celebrity known as “The Irish Giant” in late 18th-century London, was a part of “freakshows” due to his large statue. Aware of the public view of his appearance, Byrne wished to be buried at sea after his death, aware of the public’s view and ridicule. Despite his wishes, however, his body has been displayed at museums for over 200 hundred years. For the last two decades, many argued for Byrne’s body to be removed from display and given a proper burial as he wished. Earlier this month, Charles Byrne’s body has finally been agreed by the Royal College of Surgeons to be removed from the Hunterian Museum.
To read more about Charles Byrne’s life, click here.
To read more about the removal of the display, click here.
