Henry Taylor

Henry Taylor (17 March 1885 – 28 February 1951 ) was an English competitive swimmer who represented Great Britain in four Summer Olympics between 1906 and 1920. Taylor served in the Royal Navy during the First World War, and continued to swim competitively until 1926. His fortunes declined after he retired, and he died penniless. His record of three gold medals at one Olympic Games – the most by any Briton – stood for 100 years until it was equaled by cyclist Chris Hoy in 2008. Tying the medal count of American Mel Sheppard, he was the most successful athlete at the 1908 Olympics.

Early life Henry Taylor was born in Hollinwood in Oldham, Lancashire, on 17 March 1885 to James, a coal miner, and Elizabeth Taylor. Henry's parents died when he was young, and he was raised by his older brother, Bill.

Bill became his coach, and Henry trained in the Oldham Baths, and from 1894 in the Chadderton Baths, often on the "dirty water days" because of cheaper admission.

Career Taylor came to attention after success with Chadderton Swimming Club. He annually took on the French champion, swimming in the River Thames and the River Seine and winning on every occasion. He was cremated and his remains were scattered at Rochdale Cemetery.