In the annals of extraordinary individuals, few stand as tall—literally—as Cliff Thompson. Towering at an incredible 8 feet 7 inches, this North Dakota native wasn’t just one of the tallest men in history; he was a multifaceted personality who blended law, entertainment, and salesmanship into a larger-than-life career. Best known as the “World’s Tallest Beer Salesman,” Cliff turned his remarkable stature into a marketing marvel, charming crowds and boosting brews in the heart of beer country. Let’s raise a glass to his story—a tale of height, hustle, and heart.
A Giant from the Prairie: Early Life and Rise to Fame
Born Clifford Marshall Thompson on October 18, 1904, in Rugby, North Dakota, Cliff’s extraordinary growth began early. Afflicted with gigantism, a condition caused by excessive growth hormone, he shot up to heights that made everyday life an adventure. By adulthood, he measured 8’7″, making him the tallest man in the world from 1940 to 1955, after the passing of Robert Wadlow. Recent analyses suggest his height might have been slightly less, around 8’3″ to 8’6″, but his billed stature of 8’7″ cemented his place in record books and public imagination.
Cliff’s early years were marked by challenges, from custom clothing to navigating a world built for average heights. Yet, he embraced his uniqueness, pursuing education and turning heads wherever he went. He attended the University of Wisconsin and later law school, becoming a practicing attorney—earning the title “World’s Tallest Lawyer.” But law wasn’t his only path; Cliff’s charisma led him to Hollywood, where he appeared in films and circus sideshows, captivating audiences with his gentle giant persona.
From Courtroom to Kegs: The Beer Salesman Era
What truly set Cliff apart in popular culture was his venture into sales, particularly in the beer industry. Based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin—America’s beer capital—Cliff became a promotional sensation for local breweries including Blatz Brewing. Billed as the “World’s Tallest Salesman,” he leveraged his height to draw crowds at events, trade shows, and advertisements. Imagine a man who could peer over booths, hand out samples from on high, and pose for photos that made everyone else look pint-sized.
His role wasn’t just gimmicky; Cliff’s genuine enthusiasm for people and products made him effective. He worked for companies like the Wisconsin Brewing Company, where his presence boosted sales and brand visibility. At a time when marketing relied on spectacle, Cliff was a walking billboard, shaking hands with newspapermen and celebrities alike. His marriage to Mary Mars in 1939 added a personal touch to his public life, as the couple navigated the spotlight together.
Legacy and Fun Facts: A Towering Impact
Cliff Thompson’s influence extended beyond beer and law. He practiced in Iola, Wisconsin, where a historical marker now commemorates his time there. The Prairie Village Museum in Rugby honors him with exhibits, showcasing his life alongside other quirky artifacts like Queen Victoria’s dress. Even in Ames, Iowa, his visits left lasting impressions, as seen in historical photos.
Here are some fun facts about this remarkable man:
Record Holder: Cliff was once considered the tallest living man, surpassing the average male height of his era by over three feet.
Multitalented Giant: Beyond sales and law, he acted in movies and performed in circuses, proving height was no barrier to versatility.
Everyday Epics: Cliff’s home in Milwaukee was customized for his size, and he drove specially modified vehicles to accommodate his frame.
Enduring Memory: Though he passed away on February 15, 1955, at age 50, his story lives on through museums, markers, and online tributes.
Cheers to a Legendary Life
Cliff Thompson wasn’t just tall; he was a symbol of resilience and reinvention. From North Dakota prairies to Milwaukee’s brewing scene, he turned potential obstacles into opportunities, leaving a legacy that’s as inspiring as it is impressive. Whether as a lawyer, actor, or the world’s tallest beer salesman, Cliff proved that true stature comes from within. Next time you enjoy a cold one, think of the giant who helped make beer a little more fun—for everyone looking up.
For Fun Stuff:
George Washington’s Beer Recipe – Oldest known writing from George Washington
George Washington’s Distillery – Largest Distillery in the U.S. in 1799.
The History of Beer in the United States
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