Hall of Fame
Byron Bancroft "Ban" Johnson attended Marietta Academy and then Marietta College during the years of 1881-82 through 1883-84. It is known that he participated in athletics here, but few records exist of his accomplishments because teams were not well organized at that time. Johnson's fame in athletics came in later years, first as well- known sports writer and than as founder and first president of baseball's American League in 1901. He held that position for 27 years and is credited with ushering in baseball's modern era. Johnson donated funds to begin construction of MC's current field house, which later was named in his honor. He died in 1931.
