Steckbeck – Jim Thorpe Playing Baseball
Photograph of Jim Thorpe hitting a baseball.
Original caption reads: Born on the plains of Indian Territory (now Oklahoma) in 1888, James Francis Thorpe developed into a six-foot, two-inch, 210 pound all-around athlete without a peer. He had unbelievable speed for his size and an amazing versatility that enabled him to master any sport that interested him. As a halfback, he must be included on anyone’s All-Time All-America team. He capped his college track and field successes with a victory and a record score in the Decathalon at the 1912 Olympics in Stockholm. (His name was later expunged from the rolls when it was discovered that he had played minor league pro baseball for $50.00 a month, some years previously.) On his college diamond record, he was signed by the N.Y. Giants in 1913, played seven years in the majors. Thorpe’s skills include: running, jumping, swimming, skating, rowing, handball, hockey, shooting, tennis, lacrosse, shotput, javelin, discus, hammer throw, hurdles, and all gymnastics.
Photographer: unknown
Collection: Steckbeck
Photo ID: SK-26-03