Charles Byrne’s skeleton, on display for over 200 years in London’s Hunterian Museum, has finally been removed. A decision taken after centuries of controversy, Byrne having always refused to be exhibited in a museum during his lifetime… This young Irishman was famous for being over 2.30m tall… His impressive size led to him being exhibited like a monster in British circuses…
It’s a centuries-old story that’s resurfacing today… Charles Byrne, a young Irishman of the 18th century, had made headlines as the greatest man of his time.
Described as a monster, he was nonetheless distinguished by his great intellect and sensitivity. Displayed like an animal to the public, its impressive size made it a veritable freak show, captivating families and children, as well as doctors, researchers and anatomists…
Before his death in 1783 at the age of 22, Byrne is said to have wanted to be buried at sea in a lead coffin to prevent his body being used for scientific research…
But his wishes were not respected… A surgeon by the name of John Hunter is said to have bought her body for £500… and decided to exhibit her skeleton in London’s Hunterian Museum…
A choice that has never ceased to create controversy…
And it would appear that the museum has now done its soul-searching, taking the decision to remove Byrne’s body from the collection.
During the Hunterian Museum’s five-year closure, the Hunterian Collection’s Board of Trustees examined and discussed the sensitivities and differences of opinion surrounding the exhibition and conservation of the Charles Byrne skeleton. The Trustees, with the approval of the Council of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, have agreed that Charles Byrne’s skeleton will not be displayed in the new Hunterian Museum.
A decision welcomed by the museum’s detractors.
It should be noted, however, that the body will remain out of sight for the time being. No decision has yet been taken to fully honor Charles Byrne’s directives… It would seem that the lead coffin at sea is out of date…
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