Lou Gehrig, an American professional baseball first baseman, was one of the greatest and most popular players of all time. Nicknamed “The Iron Horse,” he was a symbol of strength, determination, and perseverance for millions of fans both during and long after his playing days.
From humble beginnings to baseball legend, here’s everything you need to know about Lou Gehrig, the Iron Horse of Baseball.
Early Life
Lou Gehrig was born as “Henry Louis Gehrig” on June 19, 1903, in New York City. His parents were German immigrants who ran a saloon in the Yorkville neighborhood of Manhattan.
Gehrig wasn’t a natural athlete and he spent much of his time growing up in the saloon or studying in the library. However, it wasn’t until high school that he even thought of playing baseball.
High School and College Career
Gehrig attended high school at New York’s prestigious Townsend Harris Hall, where he finally made a name for himself as a baseball player. He also became interested in football, basketball, track and field, and swimming. He set several school records and was one of the most highly respected students in the school.
Following high school, Gehrig attended Columbia University on a scholarship. There, he made a name for himself as one of the best collegiate athletes at the time – he simultaneously led the football and baseball teams as captain and won several collegiate championships.
Gehrig was eventually named a three-time All-American and an All-City baseball player, effectively setting him up for a successful future in professional baseball.
Major League Baseball Career
In 1923, at the age of 19, Gehrig signed with the New York Yankees. After two years on the team’s minor league affiliate, the Hartford Senators, he was promoted to the major league squad in 1925.
It was in his very first game as a Yankee that Gehrig proved his excellence – he played in the outfield and went 4-4 with three runs batted in. He also contributed a missed home run and a made double.
Iron Horse of Baseball
Over the course of his legendary career with the New York Yankees, Lou Gehrig was known as “The Iron Horse.” He played 2,130 consecutive games, a record that stood for over fifty years. Gehrig also holds the record for most extra base hits in a season, with 119.
During his seventeen-year career with the Yankees, he played in seven World Series and won six rings. He was also a two-time Most Valuable Player (1927 and 1936) and a seven-time All-Star (1933-1939).
In addition to setting impressive records, Gehrig is remembered as a leader both on and off the field. He was a vocal advocate of sportsmanship and fair play, and he was often the team leader in charitable events and organizations.
Gehrig was also a hit with fans, as he was well-liked and respected. He was known for his modesty and work ethic, which gained him the admiration of many fans during his playing days.
Illness and Retirement
Sadly, Gehrig’s playing days came to an end in 1939. Diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis – now better known as Lou Gehrig’s disease – he retired from baseball with a ceremony at Yankee Stadium.
In the famous speech he gave at the ceremony, he said, “Today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.”
Legacy
Lou Gehrig’s legacy and his signature words, “I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth,” still resonate with millions today. He is remembered for his strength, determination, and tenacity both on and off the field.
The Iron Horse of Baseball remains a symbol of these traits and a source of inspiration for many aspiring athletes. To this day, Gehrig’s name is still honored among baseball’s all-time greats, and his amazing accomplishments will live on forever.
Lou Gehrig is a legendary figure in baseball and an American icon. From humble beginnings, to a three-time All-American, to the Iron Horse of Baseball, Gehrig no doubt made an enormous impact on the baseball world and on the hearts of many.
Not only is he remembered for his incredible achievements on the field, but for his modesty, work ethic, and advocacy for sportsmanship and fair play. His legacy will live on for years to come, and he is remembered fondly as the “luckiest man on the face of the earth.”
