As far as human curiosities go, The Living Skeleton was always a classic attraction. Living Skeletons, John sometimes referred to as ‘shadows’ in the exhibition business, were generally adult men afflicted with some sort of consumption disease and their emaciated presence was practically a standard in every circus, exhibition or sideshow for over 100 years. Coffey was born completely healthy in Piqua, Ohio in 1852. By 1881 Coffey's5’7”frame held less than 70 pounds.
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