DEATH OF "THE LIVING SKELETON"
Martin P. Avery, who exhibited himself throughtout the country as "the living skeleton," died last evening in his apartments, in Bunnell's Museum, at Broadway and Ninth-street. He was 46 years old, and was a native of New-Berlin, Chenango County, in this State. His height was 5 feet 8 inches, and he weighed only 48 pounds. He attained his attenuated form after reaching manhood, when he became a victim to chronic dyspepsia, and wasted away until he reached the point of attenuation which rendered his public exhibition profitable. About four weeks ago he joined the group of living curiosities in Bunnell's Museum, and occupied apartments in the building No. 69 East Ninth-street, in the rear of the museum. For some time he had complained of feeling unwell. On Saturday he felt so badly that Dr. Franklin Smith, of No. 182 Grand-street, was called to attend him. The Doctor visited Avery twice on Saturday and once yesterday morning. Last evening Avery grew worse, and Dr. Smith recommended his removal to the New-York Hospital. A messenger was sent to the Mercer-street Police station, and an ambulance was summoned, but before it reached the spot Avery was dead. Dr. Smith said that death had resulted from pancreatitis and chronic dyspepsia. Avery leaves a widow, who lives in New-Berlin, where the body will be removed for interment.
The New York Times 17 July 18822 |
