Did you know that the title of “Tallest Man in the World” once belonged to a Welshman by the name of William George Auger (better known as Captain George Auger)?
Who Was William Auger?
Auger was born in Caerdydd (Cardiff) on 27 December 1882 and, when fully grown, he had reached an incredible height of 251 cm (8ft3) – this might have been exaggerated, however, with his height likely being closer to 228.6cm (7ft6).
Auger also holds the unique distinction of being possibly the tallest man in the history of the British police force, with Auger becoming a police officer before later becoming a personal escort for Queen Victoria.
Later, he would find fame with the Barnum and Bailey Circus. He would die suddenly in 1922, just as his career was about to reach new heights with a starring role in a film (titled ‘Why Worry?’) alongside Harold Lloyd.
(Image Credits: Bettman)
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DIGITAL Welsh Histories Magazine – December 2025
Niklas is the founder, owner, manager, editor, writer, video creator, voice over artist, and so forth, of Welsh Histories. He is passionate about the preservation of Welsh culture; the rejuvenation of the Welsh language and the promotion of Welsh history. Niklas currently resides in Pune, Maharashtra, with his beloved wife.