Henry Alexander Cooper was born on the 12 June 1853 at Robinsons Yard, Commercial Street, Norton near Malton, North Yorkshire. After receiving a few years schooling Henry or Harry as he had become to be known was sent into farm service. He then went to Rosedale Abbey (north yorks)and became an Ironstone Miner in the local mine. This was the time which would change Harrys future forever for it was here in one of the valleys ajoining Rosedale where Harry was struck down by a severe fever, possibly typhoid because in 1869 there was a serious outbreak of typhoid in Rosedale and many died or suffered serious after effects. This kept him confined to his bed for thirteen weeks. During this time his size increased enormously. Eventually he would increase in height to a total of 7 ft 6 inches with