Monday, October 4, 2010

Mamie Peanut Johnson - page 32

Indianapolis Clowns..Were originally formed in 1929 as the Miami Clowns, then as the Ethiopian Clowns. The Clowns entertained with a mix of comedy on the field and excellent baseball skill. Their comic routines gave potential customers one more reason to come to the park during the depression years..
they regularly played the powerhouse clubs of the Negro Leagues, the Monarchs, Elite Giants, American Giants, compiling a respectable record. The Clowns entrance into the Negro American League in 1941 clearly demonstrated the ability of the club as a professional baseball team..
1953 the Clowns, in an effort to spark fan interest signed three women..Toni Stones, Connie Morgan and Mamie "Peanut" Johnson...

Mamie "Peanut" Johnson
1953-55 Indianapolis Clowns

Before joining the Clowns, Johnson and a girlfriend tried to join the All-american Girls Baseball League..."I went to join the team and they looked at us like we were crazy."

Fondest memory "The thrill of knowing I'm good enough to play with the fellas"

Satchel Paige taught 5'2" 120lbs Peanut to throw the curve, "The curveball gave me an edge"

1997 - Milwaukee County Stadium Negro Wall of Fame

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