Obscure research Q: Circus giant Ralph 'Tex' Madsen from Ranger, TX (Howe: resident, parent)

[Rufus R. Jones]

Just looking for some information. Circus Giant Tex Madsen isn't well known, unlike the people who would follow him, such as Jack Earle or Al Tomaini.

However, to a generation of us who grew up watching "Our Gang/The Little Rascals," he was unforgettable (if not nameable) as the giant who terrorized Spanky and the gang looking for treasure in "Mama's Little Pirate," (although, his vocalizations were produced by 5' 2" Billy Bletcher, a frequent "Gang" adult).

Here's the information I have: He was born, apparently, April 19 in the 1890s. I've seen a photo of him that says the DOB was in 1897, but there's also a flyer currently on Ebay supposedly from 1917, which says he's 24, which would be a DOB in 1893. He also seems to have been a resident of Ranger TX.

That's pretty much it for info. According to IMDB, he did have just a couple of other movie appearances as giants. Any additional info would be appreciated.

Thanks.