1947 was the year the Allen Club changed ownership, from Heywood Allen, Sr., to his partners Francis and Betty McDonogh. Here’s the bill “Mac” and Betty offered on May 2, 1947, seventy years ago today!
Derby Eve Wrestling Show at The Armory, Louisville.
World Heavyweight Champion Lou Thesz def. Dr. Ed Meske
Chicago Bear Fred Davis def. George Schnabel
Vic Christy and the former “Masked Superman” Hans Schnabel drew
Ann LaVerne and Mae Young def. Christy Adams and Evelyn Wall
Total attendance: 7100
Pat Fenton was crowned “Miss Kentucky Derby” during the show.
Read more about the golden age of Louisville wrestling in the new book, Louisville’s Greatest Show: The Story of the Allen Athletic Club!