Ann Moore was in her late 40s when she became famous as the fasting woman of Tutbury.
She also testified that had she no desire for either food or drink.
Moores story appeared in many newspapers around England and in books and medical journals.
Photo:Wikimedia
Ann Moore was born in Rosliston, Derbyshire, in 1761.
Her father was a day labourer and her mother was a midwife.
When Mr. Moore discovered the deception, he deserted her soon after the marriage.
Ann Moores poverty gained her a local reputation.
By May 1807, she became incapable of eating.
As Ann Moores fame spread, some began to doubt her.
To satisfy public interest, Ann agreed herself to be watched.
One of her observers, Joseph Sharpless, described her as the most emaciated creature that ever existed.
She sleeps well, and enjoys a remarkable serene and happy mind.
Her voice is strong, and holds out the full female exercise of the faculty.
Her muscular power is such, that she can conveniently raise and support herself in bed.
The same year, Legh Richmond, the well-known evangelical rector of Turvey, decided to conduct another watch.
Nevertheless, a weighing machine was ordered, and the watch began on 21 April 1813.
The upper room was occupied by Moore.
Every unnecessary article of furniture was removed from the room, and what remained was rigidly scrutinized.
Photo:Wikimedia
Moores condition deteriorated within the first twenty four hours.
By the fourth day, she became hoarse and high with fever.
The weighing machine showed she was losing weight by more than a pound each day.
Moore became visibly emaciated and very weak.
Her face and arm developed a livid purplish hue.
Her pulse became quick and too feeble to count.
She often groaned with pain.
On April 30the ninth day of the watchher daughter was allowed to visit her.
It is all over.
The watch was called off, but Moore continued to persist in her innocence.
It was her daughter who finally spilled the beans.
Eventually, Moore confessed that she had long been practicing an imposture on the public.
She then signed a declaration stating as much.
It was witnessed on 4 May 1813 before Thomas Lister, one of his Majestys Justices of the Peace.
She was eventually apprehended, and committed, with her daughter to Chesterfield Castle.
After serving their time they were supposedly released from custody.
