OK, My dad is driving me crazy now. He is requesting more information about the Texas Giant. He is dying to get a picture of him. If anybody can help, I would really appreciate it. As noted in earlier message, my dad found a ring that has JG Tarver, The Texas Giant engraved in it.

My Mom is the Tarver expert, but she's told me
about The Texas Giant, so here ya go...he traveled with
the Barnum Bailey Circus in it's early years. The ring your
dad has was a souvenir that was handed out during the 'giants'
shows. The ring was a replica of a ring he wore on his ring finger...
looking at it this should let you know how huge this guy was...and why
he was such a huge attraction for the circus. I think my Mom has a picture
of him...I've told her of this site--I'm sure you'll hear from her soon.
Hope I helped a little!!! By the way, those rings are hard to come by and is
very very old, so tell Dad to hold onto it.

Thank you so much. My dad will be thrilled. I look forward to hearing from your mom. Have a great holiday and thanks for taking the time to answer.
Sinder

the "texas giant" was my great uncle. his name was Jim.

His name was James Grover Tarver. Born Sept 1885 in TX. His father's name was James born Sept 1845 in GA. His grandfather born in MS., grandmother born in GA. Father's occupation was a farmer. Mother was Lizzie ______, born Oct 1862 in TX. Her father and mother born in Georgia. His brothers and sisters were: Mattie, Edna, John, Addie, Rubie and Acie (male). James and Lizzie had 9 children, two had died. This info from 1900 census, Jewett, Leon County, TX. At age 35 he was 8ft 6in tall and weighed 460 lbs. Said he was a cowboy until he got larger than the horse. He worked in several circus'. He sat in the back seat of a car to drive. He was married 3 times. He died in Arkansas in 1958. Go to a library and find a National Geographic, Oct 1931. Find article about circus.....find plate 5. No name identifying him but he has TEXAS on his boots. If you'd like info about him email me at AFOWL@aol.com

if anyone has any information please contact me. paul tarver was my father...he died before i was 7yr. old. if you do i will be very thankful.

I've got one of his rings and what is really weird is someone recently gave me a panoramic photo that shows your great uncle in front of a lodge/temple with hundreds of lodge members. He is standing in the center holding his big hat.

I am sure you have found a pic of him by now, but if not, here is a website that has a photo postcard of him:
http://members.aol.com/Oldpcards/circfram.htm
Also, recently, someone gave me an old panoramic photo of him with lodge members.

My father-in-law found one of those rings around the early 1900's. I would also like a picture to go with the ring. It has been a mystery in our family for years. Any help you can give me would be apprecited. Thank you, Carol

Hi Sara, your my cousin, Paul Anthony Tarver "Pat" was my uncle. I never met you but seen your baby pictures on one of Pat's trips to Arkansas. I am also seeking pictures and information about "Big Jim". Will be glad to tell you what I know of him. Your Aunt Annice has pictures of him. I am trying to contact her and get some as well. My Daughter Jessica has a big intrest in learning more about our family history. I'm not sure how old you are now, but would love to hear back from you. my E-mail is tltbonds@bellsouth.net
Best Wishes
Travis Tarver II