The only Thanksgiving fights at our house were over the drumsticks, but in 1933 Frank Donald sponsored a full card of boxing on Thanksgiving. Many local fighters were featured, as well as an orchestra to play during any gaps. The event was started later for farmers to get to the fights after threshing, and the movies in Mr. Donald’s theater were timed to start after the boxing was over. It’s not what would be considered a traditional Thanksgiving event, but no doubt it was popular.
Researched & written by Kathryn Auger