Sam Collyer: Difference between revisions
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{{short description|United States Army Medal of Honor recipient, boxer}} |
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{{Infobox military person |
{{Infobox military person |
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|name= Sam Collyer |
|name= Sam Collyer |
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|birth_date= 1842 |
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|birth_date= May 14, 1842 |
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|death_date= December 7, {{Death year and age|1904|1842}} |
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|death_date= December 7, 1904 |
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|birth_place= [[England]] |
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|birth_place= [[Boulogne]], [[France]] |
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|death_place= [[Brooklyn, New York]] |
|death_place= [[Brooklyn, New York]] |
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|placeofburial= |
|placeofburial= |
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|placeofburial_label= Place of burial |
|placeofburial_label= Place of burial |
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|image= |
|image= Walter Jamieson MOH.jpg |
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|caption= Walter Jamieson wearing his Medal of Honor |
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|birth_name = Walter Jamieson |
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|alt=Head and shoulders of a white man with parted hair and a large mustache, wearing a star-shaped medal from a ribbon around his neck. |
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|caption= Collyer wearing his Medal of Honor |
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|allegiance= [[United States|United States of America]]<br/>[[Union (American Civil War)|Union]] |
|allegiance= [[United States|United States of America]]<br/>[[Union (American Civil War)|Union]] |
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|branch=[[Union Army]] |
|branch=[[Union Army]] |
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|serviceyears= |
|serviceyears=1861 - 1865 |
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|rank= [[ |
|rank= [[Lieutenant (United States)|Lieutenant]] |
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|commands= |
|commands= |
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|unit= |
|unit= The 28th Regiment, New York State Militia; [[139th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment]] |
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|battles= [[American Civil War]] |
|battles= [[American Civil War]] |
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* [[Siege of Petersburg]] |
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* [[Battle of Chaffin's Farm]] |
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|awards= [[Medal of Honor]] |
|awards= [[Medal of Honor]] |
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|laterwork= |
|laterwork= |
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}} |
}} |
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'''Sam Collyer''' (born |
'''Sam Collyer''' (born '''Walter Jamieson''', May 14, 1842 in [[Boulogne]], [[France]] – December 7, 1904 in [[Brooklyn, New York]]) was a [[Bare-knuckle boxing|bare-knuckle boxer]], and the American Lightweight Champion.<ref name="New York Clipper 26 Jan 1867">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18670126.2.30&e=--1866---1866--en-20-NYC-1-byDA.rev-txt-txIN---------- |title=The Light Weight Championship |newspaper=New York Clipper - 26 Jan 1867}}</ref> He was the son of James Jamieson and Jane Taylor of Angus, Scotland. He weighed between 115 and 125 pounds, and stood 5 feet 5 ½ inches. Born in France, he came to the United States as a boy. He received the United States [[Medal of Honor]] in 1898, for his actions in 1864 in the [[American Civil War]]. |
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==Early life== |
==Early life== |
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Collyer was born |
Collyer was born in France as Walter Jamieson. He came to the United States as a boy. He joined the Army from [[Brooklyn]] in September 1862.<ref>[http://dmna.ny.gov/historic/reghist/civil/rosters/Infantry/139th_Infantry_CW_Roster.pdf Regimental roster]</ref> He received the [[Medal of Honor]] for his actions in the [[Siege of Petersburg]].<ref>The Ring Magazine, January 1964</ref> He left the army with the rank of Lieutenant in June 1865. |
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==Boxing career== |
==Boxing career== |
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{{Stack|[[File:Sam_Collyer_Lorillards_Mechanics_Delight.jpeg|thumb|right|1887 Trading card of Sam Collyer, made by [[Lorillard Tobacco Company|Lorillard Tobacco]]]]}} |
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The earliest contests of Sam Collyer differ from source to source. Some list different dates, locations and people for these bouts. It is certain however, that Collyer did battle, and defeat a man named Mike Carr in early 1866 .<ref>American Fistiana, 1866</ref> The first significant contest of Collyer’s career was his bout with Horatio “Race” Bolster. The two met in [[Alexandria, VA]] on May 8, 1866. During the contest, Bolster broke his hand, and was given a tremendous beating. The fight ended after 49 rounds and 55 minutes. Collyer ended the contest when he knocked his opponent off his feet, and Bolster’s seconds threw in the towel.<ref>New York Herald, May 9, 1866</ref> |
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The earliest contests of Sam Collyer differ from source to source. Some list different dates, locations and people for these bouts. It is certain however, that Collyer did battle, and defeat a man named Mike Carr in early 1866 .<ref>American Fistiana, 1866</ref> The first significant contest of Collyer's career was his bout with Horatio "Race" Bolster. The two met in [[Alexandria, VA]] on May 8, 1866. During the contest, Bolster broke his hand, and was given a tremendous beating. The fight ended after 49 rounds and 55 minutes. Collyer ended the contest when he knocked his opponent off his feet, and Bolster's seconds threw in the towel.<ref>New York Herald, May 9, 1866</ref> |
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===Taking the American Lightweight Championship, June 1866=== |
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Later that year, Collyer battled former champion [[Barney Aaron]] for the vacant Lightweight Championship of America. The Title had been vacated since the retirement of [[Owney Geoghegan]] back in 1863. The Aaron/Collyer contest was held on June 20, 1866 at [[Pohick Landing, VA]]. 47 rounds and 2 hours and 14 minutes were contested before Collyer was declared the winner.<ref>New York Herald, June 12, 1866</ref> |
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Later that year, Collyer battled former champion [[Young Barney Aaron]] for the vacant Lightweight Championship of America. The Title had been vacated since the retirement of [[Owney Geoghegan]] back in 1863. The Aaron/Collyer contest was held on June 20, 1866, at Pohick Landing, VA. The fierce battle was contested for 47 rounds taking 2 hours and 14 minutes before Collyer was declared the winner.<ref>''New York Herald'', June 12, 1866</ref><ref>Original account of first fight with Collyer also in "The Prize Fight", ''The Evening Star'', Washington, D.C., pg. 1, 14 June 1867</ref> |
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Below is an account of the last few rounds of the Collyer/Aaron fight as written in the [[New York Herald]] on June 21, 1866: |
Below is an account of the last few rounds of the Collyer/Aaron fight as written in the [[New York Herald]] on June 21, 1866: |
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''Round 47—He was entirely blind, and his seconds seeing that there was no possible chance of success and unwilling to subject a game man to further punishment threw up the sponge in token of defeat.<ref>New York Herald, June 21, 1866</ref>'' |
''Round 47—He was entirely blind, and his seconds seeing that there was no possible chance of success and unwilling to subject a game man to further punishment threw up the sponge in token of defeat.<ref>New York Herald, June 21, 1866</ref>'' |
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On September 7, 1866 Collyer defended his title against Johnny Lafferty in a contest that lasted 39 rounds and 62 minutes (some sources report 60 minutes). His second defense came against Johnny McGlade at [[Goldsboro, PA]] on January 15, 1867. McGlade had suffered a severe fever while training, and was completely dominated during the contest.<ref>American Fistiana, 1867</ref> The two battle for 47 rounds and 55 minutes in the sleet covered ring before |
On September 7, 1866, Collyer defended his title against Johnny Lafferty in a contest that lasted 39 rounds and 62 minutes (some sources report 60 minutes). His second defense came against Johnny McGlade at [[Goldsboro, PA]] on January 15, 1867. McGlade had suffered a severe fever while training, and was completely dominated during the contest.<ref>American Fistiana, 1867</ref> The two battle for 47 rounds and 55 minutes in the sleet covered ring before McGlade's corner threw in the towel.<ref>Grand Rapids Herald, December 13, 1904</ref> |
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===Losing and reclaiming the American Lightweight Championship, June 1867=== |
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Collyer lost his title in a rematch with [[Barney Aaron]] on June 13, 1867. The two contested in a hard fought battle for 67 rounds and 1 hour and 55 minutes at [[Aqua Creek, WV]]. Immediately after winning the title, [[Barney Aaron]] retired from the ring, leaving the crown open for Collyer to reclaim. |
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Collyer lost his title in a rematch with [[Young Barney Aaron]] on June 13, 1867. The two contested in a hard-fought battle for 68 rounds and 1 hour and 55 minutes at [[Aquia Creek]] in Northern Virginia. The fight began at 8:50 am, with around 1500 in attendance and was fought outdoors in an Amphitheater on the banks of [[Aquia Creek]] in Northern Virginia. Young Barney won the choice of position and wisely took the side of the ring not facing the sun. By the end of the bout, Collyer's eyes were closed causing his seconds to throw in the sponge. The bare-knuckled boxing was desperate and brutal and both boxers were down in various rounds. Immediately after winning the title, [[Young Barney Aaron]] took a long leave from the ring, leaving the crown open for Collyer to reclaim.<ref>Original account of first fight with Collyer in "The Prize Fight", ''The Evening Star'', Washington, D.C., pg. 1, 14 June 1867</ref> His bouts with Collyer were considered among his most memorable and significant.<ref>Second bout with Collyer appears in "The Prize Ring", ''The Evening Telegraph'', Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pg. 1, 13 June 1867</ref> |
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The first man to challenge his right to the title was [[Billy Kelly]]. Kelly was a gifted pugilist, and word of the battle quickly spread. The Collyer/Kelly contest was held on November 27, 1867 in |
The first man to challenge his right to the title was [[Billy Kelly (boxer)|Billy Kelly]]. Kelly was a gifted pugilist, and word of the battle quickly spread. The Collyer/Kelly contest was held on November 27, 1867, in Strickland, PA. Collyer pressed the fight from start to finish, and his opponent was forced into the defensive mode for nearly the entire bout. A total of 111 short rounds and 1 hour and fifty minutes were fought before the champion knocked his opponent down for the final time. |
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Below is an account of the last three rounds (and conclusion) of the contest. They were documented in the [[New York Herald]] the day after the contest: |
Below is an account of the last three rounds (and conclusion) of the contest. They were documented in the ''[[New York Herald]]'' the day after the contest: |
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''Round 109—Collyer, determined to close fight before dark, rushed in [? ?] Kelly and struck him a right-hander over the left [?], then gave him the left on the nose, and again the right on the mouth, when Kelly went down.'' |
''Round 109—Collyer, determined to close fight before dark, rushed in [? ?] Kelly and struck him a right-hander over the left [?], then gave him the left on the nose, and again the right on the mouth, when Kelly went down.'' |
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''Round 110—Collyer led off with his left, which brought upon |
''Round 110—Collyer led off with his left, which brought upon Kelly's nose, and then, putting in two heavy right-handers clinched, Kelly and threw him, falling heavily on him.'' |
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''Round 111 and Last—Collyer rushed at Kelly and hitting a heavy right-hander in the mouth knocked him down.'' |
''Round 111 and Last—Collyer rushed at Kelly and hitting a heavy right-hander in the mouth knocked him down.'' |
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| Line 50: | Line 59: | ||
''The sponge was thrown up in token of defeat and Sam Collyer hailed the victor. Kelly, the game fellow, was much mortified at the result and shed tears. Collyer went over to him and putting his arms around him, also burst into tears. He then went around among the crowd and collected money for the man he had beaten in a fair fight for the championship of the lightweights of America.<ref>New York Herald, November 28, 1867</ref>'' |
''The sponge was thrown up in token of defeat and Sam Collyer hailed the victor. Kelly, the game fellow, was much mortified at the result and shed tears. Collyer went over to him and putting his arms around him, also burst into tears. He then went around among the crowd and collected money for the man he had beaten in a fair fight for the championship of the lightweights of America.<ref>New York Herald, November 28, 1867</ref>'' |
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===Rivalry with Billy Edwards=== |
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On August 24, 1868 Collyer lost his championship to [[Billy Edwards]] in 47 rounds. Collyer attempted to regain the title in a return match with Edwards on March 7, 1870. This time the former champion was forced to give in after 40 rounds. Following this contest, Collyer’s status as a prize-fighter began to diminish. He lost a third contest with Edwards in 1874, and a bout with [[Jack McAuliffe]] in 1888. His last recorded contest was in 1892. |
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{{Stack|[[File:Edwards_and_Collyer_Red_Cross_Long_Cut_Tobacco.jpg|thumb|right|1893 color lithograph of Sam Collyer and Billy Edwards, made by [[Lorillard Tobacco Company|Lorillard Tobacco]]]]}}On August 24, 1868, Collyer lost his American Lightweight Title to [[Billy Edwards (boxer)|Billy Edwards]] in 47 rounds.<ref name="New York Clipper 5 Sep 1868">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18680905.2.57&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-241-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=Determined P.R. Encounter |newspaper=New York Clipper - 5 Sep 1868}}</ref> Their second fight was on March 2, 1870, on [[Mystic, Connecticut|Mystic Island CT]], near [[Long Island, NY]]. The American Lightweight Title was again decided in this fight, this time with Collyer throwing in the sponge in 40 rounds.<ref name="New York Clipper 12 Mar 1870">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18700312.2.40&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-321-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=A Gallant Ring Encounter |newspaper=New York Clipper - 12 Mar 1870}}</ref> |
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Edwards accepted a third challenge from Collyer in July 1870.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18700716.2.23&srpos=2&e=-07-1870--11-1870--en-20-NYC-1-byDA-img-txIN-collyer+edwards--------- |title=Edwards Accepts Collyer's Challenge |newspaper=New York Clipper - 16 Jul 1870}}</ref> Collyer sent the final installment for the stakes by courier, however they did not reach the stakeholder before the agreed time, thus forfeiting the match to Edwards.<ref name="New York Clipper 10 Sep 1870">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18700910.2.18&srpos=387&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-381-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=The Collyer Edwards Match |newspaper=New York Clipper - 10 Sep 1870}}</ref> Collyer claimed he sent the payment on time and it was the courier's fault for late delivery of the payment, and sued to get his money back, damaging his reputation as a prize fighter.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18701217.2.9&srpos=65&e=--1870---1871--en-20-NYC-61-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=Suit for Stake Money |newspaper=New York Clipper - 17 Dec 1870}}</ref> |
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The rivalry between Collyer and Edwards continued to spill out of the ring. In March 1871, Collyer challenged Edwards to a fight on the spot in [[Harry Hill (sportsman)|Harry Hill]]'s Saloon in New York.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/92516376/collyer-and-edwards-fight-in-harry/ |title=Collyer Soundly Flogged |newspaper=New York Sun - 2 Mar 1871|date=2 March 1871 |page=3 }}</ref> Tensions rose and Edwards drew a pistol in Collyer's face, and Collyer responded by punching Edwards. The fight escalated with Collyer taking more of the beating. |
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Their third and final contest came on August 8, 1874, in [[Mill Creek, WV]].<ref name="New York Clipper 22 Aug 1874">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18740822.2.10&srpos=492&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-481-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=The Championship Battle |newspaper=New York Clipper - 22 Aug 1874}}</ref> In the 10th round, Collyer landed a square uppercut that knocked Edwards on his back, ending the round. The 11th came and Edwards appeared winded and was slow to come to the line. As he did, Collyer's seconds noticed something in Edwards hands, and the referee called for him to open them. In the [[New York Clipper]]'s article from 22 August 1874, covering the fight it said: |
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{{blockquote|"...Barney Aaron called on him to open his hands. He obeyed, when a white paste was found to be on them, and a tuft of grass in his right. It was a sticky substance intended to keep the fists closed. Sam's seconds and umpire instantly claimed foul for him. Billy's mawleys were wiped with a sponge, but it failed to clean them entirely. There was of course great confusion, one or two parties yelling themselves hoarse, under the impression, probably that justice was deaf. After some hesitation the referee ordered the fight to proceed. Billy then advanced to the scratch, but Sam's seconds would not allow him to do so. Roach, the umpire for Edwards, then vociferously claimed the fight for his man. The referee seemed nonplussed, and finally ended the difficulty and the fight by announcing that he would reserve his decision."<ref name="New York Clipper 22 Aug 1874">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18740822.2.10&srpos=492&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-481-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=The Championship Battle |newspaper=New York Clipper - 22 Aug 1874}}</ref>}} |
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Five days later, on August 13, 1874, the referee Charles Carroll publicized his decision, declaring Edwards the winner,<ref name="New York Clipper 22 Aug 1874">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18740822.2.10&srpos=492&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-481-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=The Championship Battle |newspaper=New York Clipper - 22 Aug 1874}}</ref> effectively making an unsatisfactory ending to Collyer and Edwards' six-year rivalry. |
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===Death of Billy Walker and Prison Time=== |
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Sam Collyer was the trainer for, and seconded Billy Walker in a prize fight verses Jimmy Weedon on August 31, 1876, in [[Pennsville Township, New Jersey|Pennsville, NJ]]. In round 76, Weedon knocked out Walker, who did not get back up. Collyer threw up the sponge to end the fight. Walker would die later that night from his injuries.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/92269141/death-in-the-prize-ring/ |title=Death in the Prize Ring |newspaper=The New York Sun - 1 Sep 1876|date=September 1876 |page=1 }}</ref> Weedon, Collyer and a number of other men involved in the fight were arrested,<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/92239294/sam-collyer-arrested/ |title=The Dead Pugulist |newspaper=The New York Daily Herald - 3 Sep 1876|date=3 September 1876 |page=12 }}</ref> tried and convicted. Collyer, Weedon and the others were sentenced to six years in prison for manslaughter.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/92240094/sam-collyer-sentenced-six-years/ |title=The Prize Fighters Sentence |newspaper=The News Journal - 4 Nov 1876|date=4 November 1876 |page=3 }}</ref> Weedon died a year later in prison.<ref>{{cite book |url=https://books.google.com/books?id=PN1Tl_PnFRsC&pg=PA10 |title=Philadelphia's Boxing Heritage 1876-1976|isbn=9780738511344|last1=Callis|first1=Tracy|last2=Hasson|first2=Chuck|last3=Delisa|first3=Mike|last4=Delisa|first4=Michael|year=2002|publisher=Arcadia }}</ref> Collyer was pardoned and released two years later.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/92239042/sam-collyer-pardoned/ |title=Why Sam Collyer Was Pardoned |newspaper=The News Journal - 16 Dec 1878|date=16 December 1878 |page=4 }}</ref> |
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===Later career=== |
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Collyer continued to fight in small bouts after being released from prison. In 1888, Collyer heard that the current Lightweight Champion [[Jack McAuliffe (boxer)|Jack McAuliffe]] had claimed he could knock out the veteran Collyer in two rounds. The 46-year old Collyer then challenged the 22-year old McAuliffe to a gloved fight of six rounds.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/92241509/collyer-challenges-mcauliffe/ |title=Wants to Fight McAuliffe |newspaper=The Brooklyn Daily Eagle - 2 Dec 1888|date=2 December 1888 |page=1 }}</ref> The fight took place on December 16, 1888, in [[New York City]]. Collyer lost in two rounds in three minutes.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/92241201/jack-mcauliffe-knocks-out-collyer-in-2/ |title=He Put Him to Sleep |newspaper=The Boston Globe - 18 Dec 1888|date=18 December 1888 |page=3 }}</ref> Afterward, the [[List of governors of New Jersey|Governor of New Jersey]], Collyer's former Civil War commander the General [[George B. McClellan]] summoned for Collyer and made him take an oath to forever leave the prize-ring.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/91978040/gov-mcclellan-made-sam-collyer-quit/ |title=Gov. Made Pugilist Swear He'd Quit |newspaper=The Wilkes-Barre Times Leader - 10 Dec 1804|date=10 December 1904 |page=8 }}</ref> |
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==Later life== |
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After retirement Collyer began working as a machinist in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and remained there until his death on December 7, 1904. During his life he raised the teenage sons of his late brother, Henry Jamieson, and performed with the boys in [[Barnum and Bailey]] show.<ref>The Ring, January 1964</ref> |
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==Medal of Honor citation== |
==Medal of Honor citation== |
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<blockquote>Voluntarily went between the lines under a heavy fire at Petersburg, Va., to the assistance of a wounded and helpless officer, whom he carried within the Union lines. At Fort Harrison, Va., seized the regimental color, the color bearer and guard having been shot down, and, rushing forward, planted it upon the fort in full view of the entire brigade.</blockquote> |
<blockquote>Voluntarily went between the lines under a heavy fire at Petersburg, Va., to the assistance of a wounded and helpless officer, whom he carried within the Union lines. At Fort Harrison, Va., seized the regimental color, the color bearer and guard having been shot down, and, rushing forward, planted it upon the fort in full view of the entire brigade.</blockquote> |
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==Legacy== |
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Collyer was elected into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1964. |
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After retirement Collyer began working as a machinist in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and remained there until his death on December 7, 1904. During his life he adopted two boys, whom he performed with at the [[Barnum and Bailey]] show.<ref>The Ring, January 1964</ref> |
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==Partial List of Fights== |
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==Legacy== |
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{|class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" |
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Sam Collyer was elected into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1964. |
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|- |
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!Date |
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!Result |
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!Opponent |
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!Round |
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!Time |
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!Purse |
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!Location |
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!Notes |
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|- |
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|Mar 16, 1866<ref name="New York Clipper 19 May 1866">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18660519.2.12&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-21-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=Determined Battle between Sam Collyer and Race Bolster |newspaper=New York Clipper - 19 May 1866}}</ref> |
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|{{yes2}}Won |
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|style="text-align:left;"|Mike Carr |
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|14 |
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|24 minutes |
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|$200 |
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|style="text-align:left;"|near [[Rock Creek (Potomac River tributary)|Rock Creek, MD]] |
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|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|First known professional fight}} |
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|- |
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|Apr, 1866<ref>{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18660331.2.20&srpos=7&e=--1865---1866--en-20-NYC-1-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=Collyer vs Kerrigan |newspaper=New York Clipper - 31 Mar 1866}}</ref> |
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|{{draw}} |
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|style="text-align:left;"|Jim Kerrigan |
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|** |
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|** |
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|$1000 |
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|style="text-align:left;"|not chosen |
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|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Kerrigan side forfeits after financial backers back out}} |
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|- |
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|May 7, 1866<ref name="New York Clipper 19 May 1866"/> |
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|{{yes2}}Won |
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|style="text-align:left;"|Horatio "Race" Bolster |
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|49 |
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|55 minutes |
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|$600 |
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|style="text-align:left;"|near [[White House, Virginia|White House, VA]] |
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|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Fight was spur of the moment}} |
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|- |
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|Jun 20, 1866<ref>{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18660630.2.18&srpos=31&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-21-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=Prolonged and Desperate Battle Between Sam Collyer and Young Barney Aaron |newspaper=New York Clipper - 30 Jun 1866}}</ref> |
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|{{yes2}}Won |
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|style="text-align:left;"|[[Young Barney Aaron|"Young" Barney Aaron]] |
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|47 |
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|2 hours, 5 minutes |
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|$2000 |
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|style="text-align:left;"|near [[Pohick, Virginia|Pohick, VA]] |
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|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|American Lightweight Title fight; both fighters carried off on stretches, and arrested by police.}} |
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|- |
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|Jan 15, 1867<ref name="New York Clipper 26 Jan 1867"/> |
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|{{yes2}}Won |
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|style="text-align:left;"|Johnny McGlade |
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|47 |
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|55 minutes |
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|$2000 |
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|style="text-align:left;"|near [[Goldsboro, Pennsylvania|Goldsboro, PA]] |
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|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|American Lightweight Title fight}} |
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|- |
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|Jun 13, 1867<ref>{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18670622.2.7&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-121-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=Great Prize Fight of the Day |newspaper=New York Clipper - 22 Jun 1867}}</ref> |
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|{{no2}}Lost |
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|style="text-align:left;"|[[Young Barney Aaron|"Young" Barney Aaron]] |
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|68 |
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|1 hour, 55 minutes |
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|$1000 |
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|style="text-align:left;"|near [[Aquia Harbour, Virginia|Aquia Creek, VA]] |
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|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|American Lightweight Title fight; Barney Aaron retires soon after passing the Title back to Collyer}} |
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|- |
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|Nov 27, 1867<ref>{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18671207.2.8&srpos=180&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-161-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=Protracted but One-Sided Battle |newspaper=New York Clipper - 7 Dec 1867}}</ref> |
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|{{yes2}}Won |
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|style="text-align:left;"|Billy Kelly |
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|111 |
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|1 hour, 50 minutes |
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|$2000 |
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|style="text-align:left;"|near Strickland, PA |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|American Lightweight Title fight}} |
|||
|- |
|||
|Aug 24, 1868<ref name="New York Clipper 5 Sep 1868"/> |
|||
|{{no2}}Lost |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Billy Edwards (boxer)|Billy Edwards]] |
|||
|47 |
|||
|1 hour, 14 minutes |
|||
|$2000 |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Coan River|Traverse Island, Coan River, VA]] |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|American Lightweight Title fight}} |
|||
|- |
|||
|Oct 5, 1869<ref>{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18691016.2.9&srpos=308&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-301-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=The Light Weight Championship Doherty Forfeits to Collyer |newspaper=New York Clipper - 16 Oct 1869}}</ref> |
|||
|{{draw}} |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|Charley Doherty |
|||
|** |
|||
|** |
|||
|$2000 |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Jamestown Island|Jamestown Island, Smith River, VA]] |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|American Lightweight Title fight; Doherty overweight on weigh-in, forfeits to Collyer}} |
|||
|- |
|||
|Mar 2, 1870<ref name="New York Clipper 12 Mar 1870"/> |
|||
|{{no2}}Lost |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Billy Edwards (boxer)|Billy Edwards]] |
|||
|40 |
|||
|47 minutes |
|||
|$2000 |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Mystic, Connecticut|Mystic Island, CT]] |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|American Lightweight Title fight}} |
|||
|- |
|||
|Jul 19, 1870<ref>{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18700730.2.14&srpos=380&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-361-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=Collyer vs Lafferty |newspaper=New York Clipper - 30 Jul 1870}}</ref> |
|||
|{{yes2}}Won |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|Johnny Lafferty |
|||
|21 |
|||
|14 minutes |
|||
|$600 |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|3 miles south of [[Quindaro Townsite|Quindaro, MO]] |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|}} |
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|- |
|||
|Sep 27, 1870<ref name="New York Clipper 10 Sep 1870"/> |
|||
|{{draw}} |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Billy Edwards (boxer)|Billy Edwards]] |
|||
|** |
|||
|** |
|||
|$1600 |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|within 50 miles of [[St. Louis|St. Louis, MO]] |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|American Lightweight Title fight; Collyer's side forfeits because final deposit not received in time from courier. Edwards keeps Title. Collyer sues to get money back.}} |
|||
|- |
|||
|Nov 23, 1872<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/91464618/sam-collyer-vs-patsy-mcguire/ |title=Sam Collyer and Patsy McGuire fought a Prize Fight |newspaper=Kansas City Times - 24 Nov 1872|date=24 November 1872 |page=1 }}</ref> |
|||
|{{yes2}}Won |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|Patsy McGuire |
|||
|7 |
|||
|20 minutes |
|||
|$400 |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|2 miles from [[Little Rock, Arkansas|Little Rock, AR]] |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Foul by McGuire; Collyer declared winner}} |
|||
|- |
|||
|Aug 8, 1874<ref name="New York Clipper 22 Aug 1874">{{cite web |url=https://idnc.library.illinois.edu/?a=d&d=NYC18740822.2.10&srpos=492&e=--1865---1899--en-20-NYC-481-byDA-img-txIN---------- |title=The Championship Battle |newspaper=New York Clipper - 22 Aug 1874}}</ref> |
|||
|{{no2}}Lost |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Billy Edwards (boxer)|Billy Edwards]] |
|||
|11 |
|||
|24 minutes |
|||
|$2000 |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Mill Creek, West Virginia|Mill Creek, WV]] |
|||
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Collyer's side claimed foul, refused to keep fighting. Referee declares Edwards winner.}} |
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|- |
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|} |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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{{Portal |
{{Portal|Biography|American Civil War}} |
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*[[List of Medal of Honor recipients]] |
*[[List of Medal of Honor recipients]] |
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*[[List of bare-knuckle lightweight champions|List of Bare-knuckle Lightweight Champions]] |
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*[[List of bare-knuckle boxers]] |
*[[List of bare-knuckle boxers]] |
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{{Reflist}} |
{{Reflist}} |
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==External links== |
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{{Persondata |
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*{{Find a Grave|5014222|Walter Jamieson}} |
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|NAME= Collyer, Sam |
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|ALTERNATIVE NAMES= |
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|SHORT DESCRIPTION= [[United States Army]] [[Medal of Honor]] recipient, boxer |
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|DATE OF BIRTH= 1842 |
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|PLACE OF BIRTH= [[England]] |
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|DATE OF DEATH= December 7, 1904 |
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|PLACE OF DEATH= [[Brooklyn, New York]] |
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}} |
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Collyer, Sam}} |
{{DEFAULTSORT:Collyer, Sam}} |
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[[Category:1842 births]] |
[[Category:1842 births]] |
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[[Category:1904 deaths]] |
[[Category:1904 deaths]] |
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[[Category:English emigrants to the United States]] |
[[Category:English emigrants to the United States]] |
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[[Category:Army Medal of Honor recipients]] |
[[Category:United States Army Medal of Honor recipients]] |
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[[Category:Union |
[[Category:Union army officers]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:French-born Medal of Honor recipients]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:American Civil War recipients of the Medal of Honor]] |
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[[Category:American male boxers]] |
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[[Category:American bare-knuckle boxers]] |
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Latest revision as of 19:53, 3 November 2024
Sam Collyer | |
|---|---|
 Walter Jamieson wearing his Medal of Honor | |
| Birth name | Walter Jamieson |
| Born | May 14, 1842 Boulogne, France |
| Died | December 7, 1904 Brooklyn, New York |
| Allegiance | United States of America Union |
| Service | Union Army |
| Years of service | 1861 - 1865 |
| Rank | Lieutenant |
| Unit | The 28th Regiment, New York State Militia; 139th New York Volunteer Infantry Regiment |
| Battles / wars | American Civil War |
| Awards | Medal of Honor |
Sam Collyer (born Walter Jamieson, May 14, 1842 in Boulogne, France – December 7, 1904 in Brooklyn, New York) was a bare-knuckle boxer, and the American Lightweight Champion.[1] He was the son of James Jamieson and Jane Taylor of Angus, Scotland. He weighed between 115 and 125 pounds, and stood 5 feet 5 ½ inches. Born in France, he came to the United States as a boy. He received the United States Medal of Honor in 1898, for his actions in 1864 in the American Civil War.
Early life
[edit]Collyer was born in France as Walter Jamieson. He came to the United States as a boy. He joined the Army from Brooklyn in September 1862.[2] He received the Medal of Honor for his actions in the Siege of Petersburg.[3] He left the army with the rank of Lieutenant in June 1865.
Boxing career
[edit]
The earliest contests of Sam Collyer differ from source to source. Some list different dates, locations and people for these bouts. It is certain however, that Collyer did battle, and defeat a man named Mike Carr in early 1866 .[4] The first significant contest of Collyer's career was his bout with Horatio "Race" Bolster. The two met in Alexandria, VA on May 8, 1866. During the contest, Bolster broke his hand, and was given a tremendous beating. The fight ended after 49 rounds and 55 minutes. Collyer ended the contest when he knocked his opponent off his feet, and Bolster's seconds threw in the towel.[5]
Taking the American Lightweight Championship, June 1866
[edit]Later that year, Collyer battled former champion Young Barney Aaron for the vacant Lightweight Championship of America. The Title had been vacated since the retirement of Owney Geoghegan back in 1863. The Aaron/Collyer contest was held on June 20, 1866, at Pohick Landing, VA. The fierce battle was contested for 47 rounds taking 2 hours and 14 minutes before Collyer was declared the winner.[6][7] Below is an account of the last few rounds of the Collyer/Aaron fight as written in the New York Herald on June 21, 1866:
Rounds 41 to 44—These rounds were merely repetitions of each other, Barney constantly going down on his knees, apparently for the purpose of receiving a foul blow and thereby winning the stakes. At the close of
Round 47—He was entirely blind, and his seconds seeing that there was no possible chance of success and unwilling to subject a game man to further punishment threw up the sponge in token of defeat.[8]
On September 7, 1866, Collyer defended his title against Johnny Lafferty in a contest that lasted 39 rounds and 62 minutes (some sources report 60 minutes). His second defense came against Johnny McGlade at Goldsboro, PA on January 15, 1867. McGlade had suffered a severe fever while training, and was completely dominated during the contest.[9] The two battle for 47 rounds and 55 minutes in the sleet covered ring before McGlade's corner threw in the towel.[10]
Losing and reclaiming the American Lightweight Championship, June 1867
[edit]Collyer lost his title in a rematch with Young Barney Aaron on June 13, 1867. The two contested in a hard-fought battle for 68 rounds and 1 hour and 55 minutes at Aquia Creek in Northern Virginia. The fight began at 8:50 am, with around 1500 in attendance and was fought outdoors in an Amphitheater on the banks of Aquia Creek in Northern Virginia. Young Barney won the choice of position and wisely took the side of the ring not facing the sun. By the end of the bout, Collyer's eyes were closed causing his seconds to throw in the sponge. The bare-knuckled boxing was desperate and brutal and both boxers were down in various rounds. Immediately after winning the title, Young Barney Aaron took a long leave from the ring, leaving the crown open for Collyer to reclaim.[11] His bouts with Collyer were considered among his most memorable and significant.[12]
The first man to challenge his right to the title was Billy Kelly. Kelly was a gifted pugilist, and word of the battle quickly spread. The Collyer/Kelly contest was held on November 27, 1867, in Strickland, PA. Collyer pressed the fight from start to finish, and his opponent was forced into the defensive mode for nearly the entire bout. A total of 111 short rounds and 1 hour and fifty minutes were fought before the champion knocked his opponent down for the final time.
Below is an account of the last three rounds (and conclusion) of the contest. They were documented in the New York Herald the day after the contest:
Round 109—Collyer, determined to close fight before dark, rushed in [? ?] Kelly and struck him a right-hander over the left [?], then gave him the left on the nose, and again the right on the mouth, when Kelly went down.
Round 110—Collyer led off with his left, which brought upon Kelly's nose, and then, putting in two heavy right-handers clinched, Kelly and threw him, falling heavily on him.
Round 111 and Last—Collyer rushed at Kelly and hitting a heavy right-hander in the mouth knocked him down.
The sponge was thrown up in token of defeat and Sam Collyer hailed the victor. Kelly, the game fellow, was much mortified at the result and shed tears. Collyer went over to him and putting his arms around him, also burst into tears. He then went around among the crowd and collected money for the man he had beaten in a fair fight for the championship of the lightweights of America.[13]
Rivalry with Billy Edwards
[edit]
On August 24, 1868, Collyer lost his American Lightweight Title to Billy Edwards in 47 rounds.[14] Their second fight was on March 2, 1870, on Mystic Island CT, near Long Island, NY. The American Lightweight Title was again decided in this fight, this time with Collyer throwing in the sponge in 40 rounds.[15]
Edwards accepted a third challenge from Collyer in July 1870.[16] Collyer sent the final installment for the stakes by courier, however they did not reach the stakeholder before the agreed time, thus forfeiting the match to Edwards.[17] Collyer claimed he sent the payment on time and it was the courier's fault for late delivery of the payment, and sued to get his money back, damaging his reputation as a prize fighter.[18]
The rivalry between Collyer and Edwards continued to spill out of the ring. In March 1871, Collyer challenged Edwards to a fight on the spot in Harry Hill's Saloon in New York.[19] Tensions rose and Edwards drew a pistol in Collyer's face, and Collyer responded by punching Edwards. The fight escalated with Collyer taking more of the beating.
Their third and final contest came on August 8, 1874, in Mill Creek, WV.[20] In the 10th round, Collyer landed a square uppercut that knocked Edwards on his back, ending the round. The 11th came and Edwards appeared winded and was slow to come to the line. As he did, Collyer's seconds noticed something in Edwards hands, and the referee called for him to open them. In the New York Clipper's article from 22 August 1874, covering the fight it said:
"...Barney Aaron called on him to open his hands. He obeyed, when a white paste was found to be on them, and a tuft of grass in his right. It was a sticky substance intended to keep the fists closed. Sam's seconds and umpire instantly claimed foul for him. Billy's mawleys were wiped with a sponge, but it failed to clean them entirely. There was of course great confusion, one or two parties yelling themselves hoarse, under the impression, probably that justice was deaf. After some hesitation the referee ordered the fight to proceed. Billy then advanced to the scratch, but Sam's seconds would not allow him to do so. Roach, the umpire for Edwards, then vociferously claimed the fight for his man. The referee seemed nonplussed, and finally ended the difficulty and the fight by announcing that he would reserve his decision."[20]
Five days later, on August 13, 1874, the referee Charles Carroll publicized his decision, declaring Edwards the winner,[20] effectively making an unsatisfactory ending to Collyer and Edwards' six-year rivalry.
Death of Billy Walker and Prison Time
[edit]Sam Collyer was the trainer for, and seconded Billy Walker in a prize fight verses Jimmy Weedon on August 31, 1876, in Pennsville, NJ. In round 76, Weedon knocked out Walker, who did not get back up. Collyer threw up the sponge to end the fight. Walker would die later that night from his injuries.[21] Weedon, Collyer and a number of other men involved in the fight were arrested,[22] tried and convicted. Collyer, Weedon and the others were sentenced to six years in prison for manslaughter.[23] Weedon died a year later in prison.[24] Collyer was pardoned and released two years later.[25]
Later career
[edit]Collyer continued to fight in small bouts after being released from prison. In 1888, Collyer heard that the current Lightweight Champion Jack McAuliffe had claimed he could knock out the veteran Collyer in two rounds. The 46-year old Collyer then challenged the 22-year old McAuliffe to a gloved fight of six rounds.[26] The fight took place on December 16, 1888, in New York City. Collyer lost in two rounds in three minutes.[27] Afterward, the Governor of New Jersey, Collyer's former Civil War commander the General George B. McClellan summoned for Collyer and made him take an oath to forever leave the prize-ring.[28]
Later life
[edit]After retirement Collyer began working as a machinist in the Brooklyn Navy Yard, and remained there until his death on December 7, 1904. During his life he raised the teenage sons of his late brother, Henry Jamieson, and performed with the boys in Barnum and Bailey show.[29]
Medal of Honor citation
[edit]Rank and organization: 1st Sergeant, Company B, 139th New York Infantry. Place and date: At Petersburg, Va., 30 July 1864; At Fort Harrison, Va., 29 September 1864. Entered service at: New York, N.Y. Birth: France. Date of issue: 5 April 1898.
Citation:
Voluntarily went between the lines under a heavy fire at Petersburg, Va., to the assistance of a wounded and helpless officer, whom he carried within the Union lines. At Fort Harrison, Va., seized the regimental color, the color bearer and guard having been shot down, and, rushing forward, planted it upon the fort in full view of the entire brigade.
Legacy
[edit]Collyer was elected into the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1964.
Partial List of Fights
[edit]| Date | Result | Opponent | Round | Time | Purse | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mar 16, 1866[30] | Won | Mike Carr | 14 | 24 minutes | $200 | near Rock Creek, MD | First known professional fight |
| Apr, 1866[31] | Jim Kerrigan | ** | ** | $1000 | not chosen | Kerrigan side forfeits after financial backers back out | |
| May 7, 1866[30] | Won | Horatio "Race" Bolster | 49 | 55 minutes | $600 | near White House, VA | Fight was spur of the moment |
| Jun 20, 1866[32] | Won | "Young" Barney Aaron | 47 | 2 hours, 5 minutes | $2000 | near Pohick, VA | American Lightweight Title fight; both fighters carried off on stretches, and arrested by police. |
| Jan 15, 1867[1] | Won | Johnny McGlade | 47 | 55 minutes | $2000 | near Goldsboro, PA | American Lightweight Title fight |
| Jun 13, 1867[33] | Lost | "Young" Barney Aaron | 68 | 1 hour, 55 minutes | $1000 | near Aquia Creek, VA | American Lightweight Title fight; Barney Aaron retires soon after passing the Title back to Collyer |
| Nov 27, 1867[34] | Won | Billy Kelly | 111 | 1 hour, 50 minutes | $2000 | near Strickland, PA | American Lightweight Title fight |
| Aug 24, 1868[14] | Lost | Billy Edwards | 47 | 1 hour, 14 minutes | $2000 | Traverse Island, Coan River, VA | American Lightweight Title fight |
| Oct 5, 1869[35] | Charley Doherty | ** | ** | $2000 | Jamestown Island, Smith River, VA | American Lightweight Title fight; Doherty overweight on weigh-in, forfeits to Collyer | |
| Mar 2, 1870[15] | Lost | Billy Edwards | 40 | 47 minutes | $2000 | Mystic Island, CT | American Lightweight Title fight |
| Jul 19, 1870[36] | Won | Johnny Lafferty | 21 | 14 minutes | $600 | 3 miles south of Quindaro, MO | |
| Sep 27, 1870[17] | Billy Edwards | ** | ** | $1600 | within 50 miles of St. Louis, MO | American Lightweight Title fight; Collyer's side forfeits because final deposit not received in time from courier. Edwards keeps Title. Collyer sues to get money back. | |
| Nov 23, 1872[37] | Won | Patsy McGuire | 7 | 20 minutes | $400 | 2 miles from Little Rock, AR | Foul by McGuire; Collyer declared winner |
| Aug 8, 1874[20] | Lost | Billy Edwards | 11 | 24 minutes | $2000 | Mill Creek, WV | Collyer's side claimed foul, refused to keep fighting. Referee declares Edwards winner. |
See also
[edit]
- List of Medal of Honor recipients
- List of Bare-knuckle Lightweight Champions
- List of bare-knuckle boxers
References
[edit]- ^ a b "The Light Weight Championship". New York Clipper - 26 Jan 1867.
- ^ Regimental roster
- ^ The Ring Magazine, January 1964
- ^ American Fistiana, 1866
- ^ New York Herald, May 9, 1866
- ^ New York Herald, June 12, 1866
- ^ Original account of first fight with Collyer also in "The Prize Fight", The Evening Star, Washington, D.C., pg. 1, 14 June 1867
- ^ New York Herald, June 21, 1866
- ^ American Fistiana, 1867
- ^ Grand Rapids Herald, December 13, 1904
- ^ Original account of first fight with Collyer in "The Prize Fight", The Evening Star, Washington, D.C., pg. 1, 14 June 1867
- ^ Second bout with Collyer appears in "The Prize Ring", The Evening Telegraph, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, pg. 1, 13 June 1867
- ^ New York Herald, November 28, 1867
- ^ a b "Determined P.R. Encounter". New York Clipper - 5 Sep 1868.
- ^ a b "A Gallant Ring Encounter". New York Clipper - 12 Mar 1870.
- ^ "Edwards Accepts Collyer's Challenge". New York Clipper - 16 Jul 1870.
- ^ a b "The Collyer Edwards Match". New York Clipper - 10 Sep 1870.
- ^ "Suit for Stake Money". New York Clipper - 17 Dec 1870.
- ^ "Collyer Soundly Flogged". New York Sun - 2 Mar 1871. 2 March 1871. p. 3.
- ^ a b c d "The Championship Battle". New York Clipper - 22 Aug 1874.
- ^ "Death in the Prize Ring". The New York Sun - 1 Sep 1876. September 1876. p. 1.
- ^ "The Dead Pugulist". The New York Daily Herald - 3 Sep 1876. 3 September 1876. p. 12.
- ^ "The Prize Fighters Sentence". The News Journal - 4 Nov 1876. 4 November 1876. p. 3.
- ^ Callis, Tracy; Hasson, Chuck; Delisa, Mike; Delisa, Michael (2002). Philadelphia's Boxing Heritage 1876-1976. Arcadia. ISBN 9780738511344.
- ^ "Why Sam Collyer Was Pardoned". The News Journal - 16 Dec 1878. 16 December 1878. p. 4.
- ^ "Wants to Fight McAuliffe". The Brooklyn Daily Eagle - 2 Dec 1888. 2 December 1888. p. 1.
- ^ "He Put Him to Sleep". The Boston Globe - 18 Dec 1888. 18 December 1888. p. 3.
- ^ "Gov. Made Pugilist Swear He'd Quit". The Wilkes-Barre Times Leader - 10 Dec 1804. 10 December 1904. p. 8.
- ^ The Ring, January 1964
- ^ a b "Determined Battle between Sam Collyer and Race Bolster". New York Clipper - 19 May 1866.
- ^ "Collyer vs Kerrigan". New York Clipper - 31 Mar 1866.
- ^ "Prolonged and Desperate Battle Between Sam Collyer and Young Barney Aaron". New York Clipper - 30 Jun 1866.
- ^ "Great Prize Fight of the Day". New York Clipper - 22 Jun 1867.
- ^ "Protracted but One-Sided Battle". New York Clipper - 7 Dec 1867.
- ^ "The Light Weight Championship Doherty Forfeits to Collyer". New York Clipper - 16 Oct 1869.
- ^ "Collyer vs Lafferty". New York Clipper - 30 Jul 1870.
- ^ "Sam Collyer and Patsy McGuire fought a Prize Fight". Kansas City Times - 24 Nov 1872. 24 November 1872. p. 1.