Joe “Ducky” Medwick – b. 1911 d. 1975
Carteret, NJ
A star of the St. Louis Cardinals “Gashouse Gang” of the 1930s, Medwick was a feared hitter until a beaning in 1940 curtailed his effectiveness. A member of the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Thanks to Mike for verifying Joe’s birthplace!
“Marvelous” Marvin Hagler – b. 1954
Newark, NJ
World Middleweight champion, inducted in both the International Boxing Hall of Fame and the World Boxing Hall of Fame.
Thanks for this suggestion to Aaron Reddick.
Amos Alonzo Stagg – b. 1862 d. 1965
West Orange, NJ
Considered by many to be the best college football coach ever, finally retiring at the age of 98. Stagg is the only person elected to the Football Hall of Fame as a player and coach. Responsible for many innovations, including the forward pass.
Joe Black – b. 1924 d. 2002
Plainfield, NJ
The first African-American to win a World Series game (1952), when he pitched for the Brooklyn Dodgers. Later, he became involved with Baseball Assistance Team (BAT), an organization that helps pre-pension era ballplayers. Also named Rookie of the Year for the Dodgers in 1952.
