Daniel Lambert’s Grave

DANIEL LAMBERT (1770-1809). He was renowned as the heaviest man in England and weighed 52 stone 11 lbs (335 kgs). He was born in Leicester and took over from his father as keeper of Bridewell prison in London, a cross between a gaol and a workhouse.

In 1804 Daniel began to travel the country to attend race meetings and to exhibit himself for money. He was renowned as a field sportsman, breeding cocks and dogs. A contemporary report said that he was a cheery man in company but shyish of being looked at.

He died on the 21st June 1809, whilst visiting Stamford to attend the races here. He was staying at The Waggon and Horses, an inn that used to be on High Street, St Martin’s, close to this site.

A window and part of a wall at the inn had to be dismantled to allow his body to be removed for burial. The coffin required 156 square feet (14.493 sq.m) of wood, wheels were fitted and it took ‘upwards of twenty men’ with ropes to lower it down a sloping ramp into the grave.

The engraving on his tombstone can still be read:-

In remembrance of that prodigy in nature

Daniel Lambert a native of Leicester

Who was possessed of an exalted and convivial mind and, In personal greatness had no competitor:

He measured three feet one inch round the leg and Weighed fifty two stone eleven pounds

He departed this life on the 21st June 1809

Aged 39 years

As a testimony of respect this stone is erected by his friends in Leicester.

Stamford Town Hall exhibits a lifesize model dressed in replica clothes and a painting of Daniel can be seen just inside the entrance to The George Hotel.