Harry Harmer: Pugilist and King’s Protector
In the brutal world of Regency-era bare-knuckle boxing, Harry Harmer was a “scientific” hitter who rose to become one of the Ring’s inner circle.
– The Bristol School: Born in 1783 and cousin to the legendary champion Jem Belcher, Harry learned his trade in the famous “Bristol School of British Boxing” before seeking his fortune in London.
– The “Cyclops of the Ring”: Harry’s professional fights were legendary for their endurance—once beating a man “senseless” in 37 minutes. However, his career was cut short after a particularly violent 1815 bout left him blinded in one eye, earning him the nickname “The Cyclops”.
– A Royal Bouncer: Harry’s most unusual claim to fame came during the 1821 coronation of King George IV. Fearful that his estranged wife, Queen Caroline, would mob the ceremony, the King hired eighteen pugilists—including Harry—to dress in scarlet frock coats and gold lace to act as “bouncers” at the Abbey doors.
Harry successfully turned the Queen away, later receiving a letter of thanks from the King for his service.
