Joe Louis (1914-1981) was the world heavyweight champion of boxing from 1938 to his retirement in 1949. He is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time and was a revered public figure in the Black community. He was an entrepreneur and became a celebrated golfer. The Chicago Defender captured a significant portion of his life outside of the ring.
Joe Louis and Count Basie by Chicago Defender ArchivesThe Obsidian Collection Archives
Joe Louis had many celebrity friends. Here, he is photographed with the legendary musician, Count Basie.
Joe and the boys by Chicago Defender ArchivesThe Obsidian Collection Archives
Joe Louis was committed to mentoring young Black boys. Here, he takes the time to be photographed with local awestruck children.
Joe Louis shopping by Chicago Defender ArchivesThe Obsidian Collection Archives
A man of the people, Louis is shown shopping in Chicago's Jones Department Store on the south side.
An Army Man
When the United States went to war against Germany, Joe Louis joined the Army. He reached the rank of sergeant.
Joe Louis was among the Inuits. The original release states: "Like kids the world over, these [Inuit] boys are probably trying to tell T/Sgt. Joe Louis all about their wonderful dog -- unsuccessfully inasmuch as the world's heavyweight champion doesn't speak [Inuit]. The scene is the U.S. Army Air Field at Southampton Island, North West Territories, Canada, during Louis' recent visit to the U.S. Army forces in Central Canada command."
Joe Louis and the Scouts by Chicago Defender ArchivesThe Obsidian Collection Archives
Generous Joe Louis makes a donation to a local scout group. His philanthropy was one reason he returned to the boxing ring after retirement.
An Entrepreneur
Joe Louis had several small businesses. His celebrity status helped him launch a few brands that were popular in the Black community.
Joe Louis and his milk (1969-01-20) by Chicago Defender ArchivesThe Obsidian Collection Archives
The Joe Louis Milk Company was established in 1954 on Chicago’s south side. The milk was carried in the local grocery stores until 1977 when the company ceased to operate.
Joe Louis milk in schools (1966-07-18) by Chicago Defender ArchivesThe Obsidian Collection Archives
Joe Louis Milk was not only in stores but briefly distributed in Chicago's schools.
Joe Louis bourbon (1952) by Chicago Defender ArchivesThe Obsidian Collection Archives
He also formed "Joe Louis Distillery Company" with the intent to sell "Joe Louis Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey". The slogan was: "Champion of them all."
An Amateur Golfer
Joe Louis became an extremely influential amateur golfer in America. He began playing golf in 1935 and later became a major supporter of the United Golf Association (UGA), the African American organization conducted tournaments nationwide. As an amateur golfer, he was the first African American to play in a PGA tour event.
Joe Louis and fellow golfer by Chicago Defender ArchivesThe Obsidian Collection Archives
Joe Louis (R) often golfed with celebrities. This iconic photo features three African American athletes that reached the top of their respective sports and relaxed playing golf. In the middle is Judge Duke Slater, the greatest African American football player of the first half of the 20th Century. The man on the left is famed baseball player, Jackie Robinson.
Source: The Chicago Defender Newspaper Archives
Partner: The Obsidian Collection Archives
