Photograph from the 1880s of Minnesota boxer Harris Martin. From the collection of Jack and Kitty Norton.

Celebrating Black History: Harris Martin – Minnesota Boxer Who Punched His Way into History

In honor of Black History Month, today we dive into the riveting story of Minnesota boxer Harris Martin, “the Black Pearl,” and his journey from backroom brawler to boxing legend.

Minneapolis, Minnesota – In the world of boxing, Harris Martin, known as “the Black Pearl,” made an unforgettable mark. Born in 1865 in Washington, D.C., Martin ventured to Minnesota in the 1880s and soon became a sensation in the local boxing scene, fighting under the guidance of notable Black professionals.

His journey from backroom brawls to becoming the first Colored Middleweight Champion of the World in 1887 is a story of grit and determination.

1887 print based on a photograph of Harris Martin. From the collection of Jack and Kitty Norton.
An illustration of Harris Martin, from 1887.

Martin’s early days were filled with victories that showcased his powerful punches, earning him the nickname for his “sledgehammer action.” His defining moment came when he faced off against Frank “Black Frank” Taylor in a makeshift ring located on the Mississippi River’s banks, clinching the title after a marathon thirty-eight-round battle. This victory not only earned him a $225 prize but also solidified his status as a boxing legend.

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However, Martin’s life outside the ring was marked by controversy and challenges. His attempt to enter a Minneapolis bordello in 1891 led to his arrest and signaled a turning point in his career. Despite facing adversity and racial prejudice, Harris continued to fight until his last bout in 1899. After retiring, he struggled with odd jobs until his untimely death in 1903 at the age of thirty-eight.


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Over a century later, Martin’s legacy was honored with his induction into the Minnesota Boxing Hall of Fame in 2010, celebrating him as a pioneer in the sport. Harris Martin’s story showcases the unyielding spirit of a fighter who conquered challenges to leave a lasting impact on the boxing world.

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