Gifford Ollerton

Gifford Ollerton was a historically famous Wizard renowned for his work as a Giant-slayer. His most celebrated achievement was the slaying of the Giant Hengist of Upper Barnton. In the modern Wizarding World, Ollerton is remembered primarily through his inclusion on a Chocolate Frog Card, which serves to keep his heroic legacy alive for new generations of witches and wizards.

Little is known about the life of Gifford Ollerton beyond his heroic deeds. His life dates are listed as 1390–1441 (video game). His lasting fame stems from his successful hunt and slaying of the notorious Giant, Hengist of Upper Barnton. The circumstances of this confrontation, including the location and the methods Ollerton used, are not recorded in known history. This singular, monumental act was enough to cement his place as one of the great heroes of the wizarding past.

There is no canonical description of Gifford Ollerton's physical appearance or personality. However, his chosen profession as a Giant-slayer suggests he possessed immense courage, determination, and resourcefulness.

• Giant-Slaying: Ollerton's primary skill was his expertise in fighting and defeating Giants. This dangerous occupation would have required exceptional duelling prowess, a deep understanding of defensive and offensive Magic, and tactical ingenuity to overcome the immense size, strength, and magic resistance of his quarry.
• Duelling: To defeat a Giant, Ollerton must have been a highly skilled and powerful duellist, capable of casting potent spells effectively in a life-or-death situation.

No specific possessions of Gifford Ollerton are mentioned in the series. It is certain he would have owned a wand, but its specifications are unknown.

The only relationship of note for Gifford Ollerton is that of his adversary, the Giant Hengist of Upper Barnton. No information regarding his family, friends, or other associates is available.

• Gifford: An English and Scottish surname of Norman origin. It may derive from the Old German personal name 'Gebhard', meaning “brave gift,” or from an Old French nickname, `giffard`, meaning “chubby-cheeked.” The “brave gift” interpretation aligns well with his heroic status.
• Ollerton: A common English surname derived from a place name, most notably a town in Nottinghamshire, England. The name means “settlement by the alder trees.” The location's proximity to Sherwood Forest subtly connects the character to the folklore of English heroes like Robin Hood.

Gifford Ollerton is first mentioned in the series when Harry Potter receives his Chocolate Frog Card on the Hogwarts Express in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. The card itself provides the only canonical information about him. The dates of his life (1390–1441) are not present in the novels but appear on his Chocolate Frog Card in the Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (video game) and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (video game).