TOMAHAWK – A historic photo recently discovered and shared by the Tomahawk Area Historical Society highlights Tomahawk’s longtime connection to America’s pastime.
According to the Historical Society, the first professional baseball team in Tomahawk, the Legionnaires, was formed in 1924.
A Tomahawk Leader article said Arthur Oelhafen traveled to Chicago to interview perspective players, and the Legion agreed to sponsor the team. The Legion patch was stitched on the sleeves of players’ uniforms.
“While the players could not afford to travel south for spring training, the Leader reported that the training was held a little ‘south’ of town at Joe Kahle’s park near Road Lake,” the Historical Society stated.
Players traveled from as far away as Dubuque, Iowa, to play for the Tomahawk squad.
The Historical Society said no identification was included with the image.
The Legionnaires ultimately disbanded in 1925 after the city and the Legion could no longer afford the salaries.
“This was a great find,” the Historical Society said.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here