| Charles Johnson is a part of US Black history. Join: US Black Heritage Project Discuss: black_heritage |
Charlie Johnson is a notable figure for his multifaceted contributions to American society. From his early days in the Negro Leagues, where he displayed exceptional talent in baseball, to his groundbreaking role as the first African American Special Agent on the Illinois Central Railroad Police, Charlie's life epitomizes resilience and determination in the face of challenges. His tireless advocacy for former Negro League players and his unwavering commitment to labor rights underscore his significant impact. His legacy as a pioneering figure in sports, civil rights, and the labor movement ensures his enduring recognition as a remarkable and influential individual in American history.[1][2]
Charles Johnson, known as "Charlie," was born on August 7, 1909, in Pine Bluff, Jefferson County, Arkansas.[1][2] He was the son of Henry Johnson and Alice (Totten) Johnson.[3] His early life was marked by challenges and transitions that would shape his future.
In 1910, Charlie and his family lived in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. Tragically, his mother, Alice, was listed as a widow, suggesting that his father had passed away, potentially shortly after their marriage. It is unclear whether his father's passing occurred before or after Charlie's birth. The family lived on East 5th Avenue, in close proximity to his maternal grandmother, Jane, and his brother James and his family.[4]
By 1920, Charlie and his family were still in Pine Bluff, living on Missouri Street. Their family unit remained closely connected, as extended family members continued to reside together, providing a support system.[5]
Around 1923, a significant change occurred in Charlie's life when he and his mother relocated to Chicago, Cook County, Illinois. Tragically, his mother passed away shortly after their move, leaving the young Charlie, at the age of fifteen, to navigate the challenges of life on his own.[1][2]
It was in this new environment that Charlie's life took a remarkable turn when he crossed paths with Ted "Double Duty" Radcliffe, who lived on the same block. Ted recognized Charlie's potential and helped him enter the world of baseball in the Negro Leagues. During the 1930s, Charlie's baseball career took flight as he pitched and played outfield for various teams, including the Chicago Giants, the American Giants, the Union Giants, the Giants, and the Elite Giants. Much of his time was spent on barnstorming teams, primarily in Chicago, but he also traveled across the United States and even Canada.[1][2]
In 1942, Charlie married Julia Banks, and at his wife's insistence, he stepped away from baseball in 1944. Post-retirement from baseball, he explored various occupations until he found employment as a porter on the Illinois Central Railroad in 1951.[1][2] The 1950 census records him living on South Calumet Avenue in Chicago, Illinois, working as a tailor at a cleaning and dyeing shop.[6]
In the mid-1960s, Charlie applied for a special agent position on the Illinois Central Railroad, but faced discrimination in the process. Undeterred, he filed a lawsuit and emerged victorious, becoming the first African American Special Agent on the Illinois Central Railroad Police. Throughout his life, he remained a staunch union advocate and continued to push for the rights and recognition of former Negro League players. He retired from the railroad in the 1970s and spent several years working for a private security firm.[1][2]
Even in his full retirement, Charlie remained active in the world of baseball, frequently attending autograph shows and Negro League reunions. His enduring dedication to the sport and its players was unwavering.[1][2]
Charlie Johnson's life journey concluded on June 10, 2006[7], as he battled complications from prostate cancer[1] in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.[7] His legacy lives on in the pioneering steps he took in the railroad industry, and his efforts to secure pensions for former Negro League players.[1][2] He found his final resting place at Oak Woods Cemetery in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois[2][8], leaving behind a rich history of determination and advocacy.
See Also
Categories: Oak Woods Cemetery, Chicago, Illinois | Arkansas, Notables | 1910 US Census, Jefferson County, Arkansas | 1920 US Census, Jefferson County, Arkansas | Pine Bluff, Arkansas | Jefferson County, Arkansas | 1950 US Census, Cook County, Illinois | Tailors | Porters | Security Guards | Special Agents | Illinois Central Railroad | Chicago, Illinois | Cook County, Illinois | Professional Baseball Players | USBH Notables, Needs Photo | USBH Notables, Needs More Sources | USBH Notables, Needs Genealogically Defined | USBH Notables, Needs Connection | Negro League Baseball | US Black Heritage Project Managed Profiles | African-American Notables | Notables