To order images and/or obtain permission to use them commercially, please contact the KSHS Reference Desk at KSHS.reference@ks.gov or 785-272-8681, ext. 117.
For more information see the Copyright and Permission FAQ.
This black and white photograph shows Jess Willard (1888-1968). Willard a native of Pottawatomie County, Kansas, became the world heavyweight boxing champion on April 5, 1915, when he defeated defending champion Jack Johnson in a twenty-six round match in Havana, Cuba. The "Pottawatomie Giant" as Willard was called, had a career of twenty-five wins but was unable to defend his title to challenger Jack Dempsey on July 4, 1919 in Toledo, Ohio. After the loss, Willard's boxing career came to a close and he pursued a new profession in movies and vaudeville shows. On December 15, 1968, Willard died at the age of 86 in Los Angeles, California.
Date: Between 1910s and 1920s
Item Number: 216467
Call Number: B Willard, Jess *2
KSHS Identifier: DaRT ID: 216467
Business and Industry - Occupations/Professions - Actors
Business and Industry - Occupations/Professions - Athletes
Collections - Photograph
Date - 1910s
Date - 1920s
Objects and Artifacts - Communication Artifacts - Documentary Artifact - Photograph
People - Notable Kansans - Willard, Jess, 1881-1968
Places - Counties - Pottawatomie
Type of Material - Photographs
http://www.kansasmemory.org/item/216467