Collection search - McAskill, John - Interview

MCNEIL, Bill

1981-0111

Sound

1 of 1

1981-02

Bill McNeil (Interviewer)

Interview of John McAskill who talks about his great uncle, Angus McAskill, the Giant of Nova Scotia and the largest giant on record. According to John, all the men in the McAskill family were tall and there was a history of giantism in the Scottish-born family. Angus, who eventually reached the height of 7 foot, nine inches, and a weight of 425 pounds, was born in 1825 and John relates that Angus was considered lazy in spite of his size and prodigious strength. He discusses Angus' world-wide fame while travelling with the Barnum and Bailey Circus performing with "Major McNutt", a midget he held in his hands. John relates that Angus eventually returned to Englishtown, Nova Scotia, and purchased a fleet of fishing boats; however, he was constantly challenged by those who wanted to fight with the Giant. In conclusion, John talks about the myths surrounding Angus' death at the age of 38 and mentions that Angus always viewed his giantism as a "calamity".

English

Open

No Restrictions / Pas de restrictions

with written permission of copyright owner : with permisson of Bill McNeilCBC has rights only for one broadcast of VOICE OF THE PIONEER.Contact for Bill McNeil: Dawn McNeil Lemaire.