14/11/2025
In 1815, George Wilson of England took up a challenge to walk 1,000 miles in 20 days on a 1-mile loop near a pub in Blackheath. Huge wagers took place totaling about 1 million dollars in today's value.
On Day ten, 7,000 people came to watch causing terrible horse carriage traffic jams and crashes on the road from London. He had trouble walking through the massive crowds. Wagerers wanted him to fail, trying to injure him and poison him.
With all the spectators there, a fair opened up with circus events including an elephant. The pub sold 1,296 quarts of beer in one day. After walking 750 miles, on the 16th day, Wilson was arrested because his walk was disturbing the peace.
