SILER, GEORGE SOUVENIR TESTIMONIAL PROGRAM (1907)

George Siler (Born September 23, 1846-Died June 13, 1908) was one of the most well-known and respected referees of "modern" boxing's early years. He refereed bouts featuring Joe Gans, Battling Nelson, and Jimmy Britt, among others. His list of important fights he refereed is impressive including: Fitzsimmons-Maher, Fitzsimmons-Corbett, Fitzsimmons-Jeffries, Jeffries-Sharkey, Dixon-Attell, McGovern-Gans, and Gans-Nelson. His last fight was on May 30, 1907 between heavyweights Marvin Hart and Mike Schreck. Offered here is a very rare souvenir testimonial program for George Siler held at the Coliseum in Chicago on September 23, 1907. On this show there was a 6 round exhibition between lightweights Packey McFarland and Joe Galligan and an exhibition wrestling match between Frank Gotch and Jess Westergard, both listed in the program.
This original program is 114 pages complete. It is profusely illustrated with photos of fights and fighters Siler refereed. The front and back covers are clipped and torn. Spine reinforced with tape. Interior pages are clean and complete. Great photos of Herman, Britt, Sullivan, Gans, Rickard, Attell, Jeffries, Burns and many others. Testimonials by numerous celebrities and newsmen of the time. Not creased. Extremely rare, the only example we have seen. 7" x 10."