Jimmy Johnson (quarterback) facts for kids
| Biographical details | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 6, 1879 Edgerton, Wisconsin |
| Died | January 19, 1942 (aged 62) Rochester, Minnesota |
| Playing career | |
| 1899–1903 | Carlisle |
| 1904–1905 | Northwestern |
| Position(s) | Quarterback |
| Coaching career (HC unless noted) | |
| 1906 | Carlisle (assistant) |
| Accomplishments and honors | |
| Awards | |
| Consensus All-American (1903) | |
| College Football Hall of Fame Inducted in 1969 (profile) |
|
James E. Johnson (born June 6, 1879 – died January 19, 1942) was a famous American football player. He was a talented quarterback who played in the early 1900s. Years after he passed away, he was honored by being chosen for the College Football Hall of Fame in 1969. This special hall recognizes the best college football players and coaches in history.
Contents
Early Life and Football Beginnings
Jimmy Johnson was born on June 6, 1879, in a town called Edgerton, Wisconsin. He was part of the Stockbridge Indian tribe. This heritage was an important part of his life.
In 1899, Jimmy started attending the Carlisle Indian Industrial School. This school was known for its amazing football team. He played for the Carlisle football team from 1899 to 1903.
Playing for the Carlisle Indians
The Carlisle football team was very special. It was made up entirely of American Indian students. Their coach was a legendary figure named Pop Warner. Under his guidance, the Carlisle team became one of the strongest teams in the country. They were a true "powerhouse" in college football during the early 1900s.
Jimmy Johnson was a key player for this team. He was a quarterback, which is like the leader of the offense. In 1903, a very important football expert named Walter Camp chose Jimmy as an All-American quarterback. This meant he was considered one of the best players in the entire country. That same year, Jimmy also became the team captain for Carlisle.
College Years and Later Life
After his time at Carlisle, Jimmy Johnson continued his education. He went to Northwestern University to study dentistry. While there, he also played football for the Northwestern football team. He played during the 1904 and 1905 seasons.
Leading the Northwestern Wildcats
Even though the Northwestern team had fewer players than usual, Jimmy helped them succeed. He became a team captain for Northwestern, just like he had been at Carlisle. His leadership helped the team do well.
After his football career ended, Jimmy Johnson became a dental surgeon. He moved to San Juan, Puerto Rico, where he practiced dentistry. He lived there for many years.
Legacy and Hall of Fame
Jimmy Johnson passed away on January 19, 1942, at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota. Many years later, his amazing football achievements were recognized.
In 1969, Jimmy Johnson was officially inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. This honor means that he is remembered as one of the greatest college football players of all time. His skill as a quarterback and his leadership on the field left a lasting mark on the sport.
