Treves' work with Merrick had brought attention to his plight from all over Britain and Europe. All kinds of assistance and large amounts of money were offered to ensure that John had a permanent home. Pressure was placed on the Whitechapel hospital to give this "Child of England" an indefinite home. Finally, when the British Royal Family became involved, the hospital agreed to reverse its policy of never offering beds to those with incurable diseases, and allowed John to stay in a side annex of the hospital.
There John stayed until his death at 1.30 p.m. Friday April 6th 1890, he died of asphyxiation.
John suffered a great deal of torment during his lifetime, probably even more intensely felt because of his sensitive and intelligent nature. Therefore, it is somewhat comforting to know that England finally decided to take care of its own and that John died in a dwelling where he finally felt safe, the only 'true' home he had ever known.
Merrick's skeleton remains on display at the London Hospital. Treves went on to achieve immense success. After being appointed Court Physician by Queen Victoria, in 1901 he was Knighted by King Edward VII.
There is some controversy surrounding the illness that Merrick actually suffered from. It is actually stated that John did not suffer from the genetic disorder which came to be known as "Elephant Man Disease." In fact, recent studies of Merrick's remains have confirmed theories that Merrick was the victim of a much rarer disease named Proteus Syndrome. which has only been recorded in fewer than 100 cases ever.
Jeanette Sittons' The Elephant Man is a superb web site in which to view Joseph Merrick memorabilia. His autobiography is online, as is his only surviving letter. There is an account by Dr. Treves and Joseph's Merrick's birth certificate can also be viewed.
*I have chosen to use the name John instead of Joseph as it seems to be the most widely accepted, although there is no evidence to suggest that Joseph was ever called John.
I recently received this from Jeanette Sitton: I had campaigned for over 3 years to have a commemorative plaque erected to Joseph Merrick. Lots or communication went back and forth to English Heritage, hoping that they would erect one of their own blue plaques. They refused, saying that Joseph was an "unworthy recipient". Finally, just by luck, a Leicester based stonemason contacted me through my website. (Incidentally, this is Joseph's hometown). The Stonemason offered to produce a plaque entirely free of charge, saying, "it is an honour for me to commemorate a brother of Leicester - this is the least I can do". The black granite was imported from India, especially for the job. This year, May, the oval plaque was erected in Leicester, bearing this wording in gold chiselled letters: "Joseph Carey Merrick, son of Leicester, 1862-1890. A true model of bravery and dignity for all peoples, of all generations. Erected by his friends, worldwide in the year 2004." Myself, a fellow Friend from the States, (who especially flew over for the occasion), and several other people attended the unveiling by the Mayor of Leicester.
| Here's the follow-up discussion on this article: | View all related messages |
For a complete listing of article comments, questions, and other discussions related to Elizabeth Batt's Leicestershire topic, please visit the Discussions page.