Object Details
referenced
Schmeling, Max
Louis, Joe
Description
Heavyweight boxing champion Joe Louis (1914–1981) lost his first bout with Nazi Germany's champion Max Schmeling in 1936, but the return match was a triumph for America. This towel was thrown in by Schmeling's handlers at Yankee Stadium, New York City, June 22, 1938, where Louis pummeled his opponent in the first round. Enforcing a boxing rule that seconds cannot stop a fight, referee Arthur Donovan then threw it out. The towel was thrown in again during the first round, giving Louis the victory in two minutes and four seconds. The story of the fight was later embroidered on the towel.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Mrs. Julian A. Black
date made
1938
date of the fight
1938-06-22
ID Number
1980.0683.05
accession number
1980.0683
catalog number
1980.0683.05
Object Name
towel, boxing
Physical Description
fabric, cotton (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 22 in x 9 in; 55.88 cm x 22.86 cm
location of the fight
United States: New York, New York City
See more items in
Culture and the Arts: Sport and Leisure
Data Source
National Museum of American History
web subject
Sports
name of sport
Boxing
level of sport
Professional
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_694754