MILES, MARSHALL SIGNED CHECK (1951)

HISTORY: Marshall Davis Miles was a businessman who helped manage the boxing career of Joe Louis and remained his lifelong friend and adviser. Miles met Louis when he was a young fighter in Detroit through Louis's manager, John Roxborough, and took over the champion's career when Roxborough went to prison in 1946. Louis, the most admired African-American athlete of his day, retired as heavyweight champion in 1949 and made a brief attempt at a comeback two years later. He died in 1981. Miles was born in Demopolis, Ala., and came to Buffalo with his family as a child. He and his brothers, Percy and Mitchell, were among the city's pioneering African-American businessmen in the 1920's and 1930's, beginning with a shoe-repair shop, then with Miles Brothers Dairy. In addition to managing boxers, Miles branched out into real estate and investments. As Louis's manager, he sat ringside at major title fights for many years. Marshall Miles passed away in Buffalo at age 92 on December 10, 1997. Offered here is an original check which is signed and endorsed by Marshall Miles. The check is dated from Pompton Lakes, New Jersey on September 3, 1977 where Joe Louis was training for his upcoming fight with Rocky Marciano.

FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original check from North Jersey National Bank of Pompton Lakes. Signed on front and back, "M.D.Miles." Clean front and back. No creases or tears. Bold print and bold ink signatures. 2 3/4" x 6 1/4."