Columbia Giants

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Chappie Johnson

Catcher
  • Series: Pioneer Portraits II: 1875-1899
  • City: Chicago
  • Team: Columbia Giants
  • League: Independent

George “Chappie” Johnson (1877-1949) was a popular and talented catcher for the early Negro teams. His playing days ended just as the “Negro Major Leagues” began @1920. Johnson broke color barriers with several teams for whom he could not play but valued his expertise as coach and trainer, especially in spring training.

  • Innovated shin guards at his position
  • Owned and managed several successful teams such as the Dayton Chappies
  • A skilled handler of pitchers, Johnson was a mainstay for many of the top Black clubs

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