| As a beloved sports editor for the Chicago Tribune, Arch Ward certainly had an impressive guest list at his funeral. This guest book, signed by over a thousand attendees includes signatures from Harry Stuhldreher and Elmer Layden (of the Four Horsemen of Notre Dame), Joe Stydahar, Paddy Driscoll, Elmer Otto, Ollie Matson, Fred Lindstrom, Gabby Hartnett, William Harridge, Charles Comiskey, Tom Meany, and many more.
Offered is just one page from that guest book. The more notable signature on this page is Jim Enright (D. 1981). He’s a member of the Naismith Basketball HOF.
In 1930, when a 20-year-old sportswriter named James Enright covering a game for the Benton Harbor (IL) News-Palladium was asked to substitute for a snowbound official, a 30-year love affair with officiating was born. Enright was a natural. His relationship with coaches, players, and fans earned him popularity, respect, and many key assignments. Enright, who regularly officiated in the Big Ten, Big Eight, and Missouri Valley Conferences, also officiated in two NCAA regional tournaments (1952 and 1953) as well as the 1954 Final Four between La Salle and Bradley. Enright showcased his talents in both the National Basketball League and NBA for one year. When Enright retired from officiating in 1964, he switched his dedication back to his first love - sports writing.
The signature rates a 10/10. The page measures 6.5” x 8.” Included with this item is a copy of the full LOA from PSA/DNA that covered the overall funeral book.
Note: The more notable signatures have been boxed in red on the scan, but the red boxes are not present on the actual page.
Item: 6293
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