Posted by Communications Liaison Ellie Simpson, thanks to Archivist Jon Coss.
James Otis Rodgers was born to James and Mary Parker Rodgers in Toledo, Ohio in 1874. After attending Andover prep, he enrolled at Yale, played left tackle for the Bulldogs, and was elected captain by his teammates. During his four years as a player, the team compiled an overall record of 51–1–4, and were recognized as national champions in three of the four years. He also rowed for Yale’s varsity crew and graduated with a bachelor’s degree.
Rodgers entered Harvard Law School, but left after two years to manage the Lanyon Zinc Company in Iola, Kansas. He returned to Yale and coached the 1899 Yale football team to a winning record. In 1902 he married Cora Worthington Hale in Cleveland.
Captain Rodgers (arms crossed) with the 1897 Bulldogs. James O. Rodgers in 1915.
In 1911 James and Cora Rodgers went to New York City, where he spent most his career as an insurance broker for Rodgers, Hobart & Carr, Inc. He and his family lived in Pelham Manor and joined the Huguenot Church in 1918. He coached several crews of the New York Athletic Club, including winners of the national senior championship in 1935. Rodgers died of a heart attack in 1945, age 70, survived by his wife Cora, son James Jr., daughter Carolyn, and two grandchildren.
Recent Comments