A Boxing Club in Bossier City
By Ann Middleton
An article titled "Thanks to Dr. Carpenter" in the March 31, 1932 issue of The Planters Press described the efforts of Dr. S. L. Carpenter in the organization and establishment of the boxing club in Bossier City. The paper noted that "The fact that thirty-five boys attended the organization meeting is sufficient evidence of the interest that the project has for those who are most vitally concerned."
"Dr. Carpenter has made it possible for those boys who are interested in boxing, (and most boys are), to have a place to train themselves for competitions. Amateur boxing presents a means for boys to work off some of their excess energy, and at the same time trains them to be confident and to take care of their bodies. It presents none of the defects of professional pugilism in that the absence of monetary consideration does not serve to attract the throng of worthless hangers-on and grafters that professional boxing attracts."
"Every boy that is in normal health can learn to box. The exercise incidental to training for competition will give him grace and poise, and if he uses good judgment and continues his exercises, he will enjoy better health greater than any medicine can give him."
The following issue (dated the same as the one above) featured an article titled "Training Quarters Ready for Boxers." This article gave the following details:
"Dr. S. L. Carpenter, organizer of the local boys' boxing club, announced this week that training quarters had been arranged for with Mr. H> H. Mehaffey in the building that flanks the Bossier City Municipal Building on the west. Mr. Mehaffey has kindly consented to let the club use a large room located in the rear of this building."
"Mr. Mitchell, a carpenter, with the assistance of several of the club members, erected a platform this week to serve as a ring and a work-out and wrestling stage. The ring will be erected in one corner. Mats will be provided for the balance of the platform. The ring, mats and punching bag are in process on construction, and it is hoped that all will be completed in time for work to begin in earnest early next week."
"A charter has been applied for, and at the meeting on last Saturday night thirty-five boys were present. Some of the officers of the club were elected, with more to come as soon as rules and regulations have been outlined. The charter will probably be forthcoming soon. 'This club was formed with the intention of affording Bossier boys an opportunity for healthful and moral recreation,' said Dr. Carpenter, 'and I feel sure that parents will appreciate the fact that this organization will serve to give the boys an opportunity for improving their bodies, and developing skill in boxing. The last few years ha[ve] [s]een a tremendous growth in amateur boxing, an interest that is shared by Bossier boys. Parents are invited to inspect the training quarters Monday night, and any questions regarding the club will be welcomed.'"
"There are no restrictions regarding membership, and all boys who are interested in boxing, or, who would like to exercise under competent instructors, are urged to come down and get acquainted. Fees for membership have not been established, but it is sure that they will be very small, assuring only an income which will serve to meet the needs of the club from time to time. The club was not formed for profit and no salaries are being paid."
"Some boys have already started training in expectation of a tournament to be announced soon."
Like so many events, places and happenings, the Bossier Boxing Club came and went. To learn more about the history of Bossier Parish, come to the Bossier Parish Library Historical Center. If you have more information about the Bossier Boxing Club, please contact Ann Middleton at amiddleton@bossierlibrary.org.