1919

Madsen shaking hands with Senator Morris Sheppard at the capitol.

IMAGE: HARRIS & EWING COLLECTION (LIBRARY OF CONGRESS)

He was not from Texas.

Despite what his nickname might suggest, Mr. Ralph Earl Madsen was born in Nebraska in 1897.  By the age of 21, he stood 7'6" tall. 

Ralph grew up on a ranch, but left that world behind when he began to tour America with manager Sam Houston. It was Houston who promoted Ralph as a Texas native.

But Tex Madsen was not his only nickname. He was also known as Sky High Madison, High Bill Madesen, Sky Hi, Big Boy, Atta Boy and Mr. Longfellow. 

Being exhibited in a range of sideshows and fairs, Ralph also appeared in several movies, typically playing either "the tall man" or "the giant." 

During WWI, Ralph attempted to enlist in both the U.S. and Canada but was turned down.  The military authorities believed he would be too tall for the trenches and would make an easy target.

According to the flyer produced by Sam Houston:

Ask Mr. Madsen anything about a horse, or a domestic animal, he is always ready to talk intelligently on animals or farms. So many people ask him foolish questions in order to appear ridiculous, he is quite witty and goes them one better.

In 1932, he married Verne Marie Rice, a more typical 5'5" tall. Ralph died in Nebraska in 1948, aged 51.

1919

Madsen at the White House.

IMAGE: HARRIS & EWING COLLECTION (LIBRARY OF CONGRESS)

Madsen in Los Angeles.

IMAGE: GAMMA-KEYSTONE / GETTY IMAGES

1932

Madsen's wedding at Romona Village, Los Angeles, California.

IMAGE: GETTY IMAGES

Jul. 5, 1932

Madsen raises his hat on greeting Barbara Carlson, in Santa Monica, California.

IMAGE: GAMMA-KEYSTONE / GETTY IMAGES