Ferguson Jenkins Sr. was a notable figure in Canadian baseball, remembered not only for his own contributions to the sport but also for the legacy he left through his son, Ferguson Jenkins Jr., a National Baseball Hall of Fame pitcher. Jenkins Sr.'s journey in baseball began in Detroit and later flourished in Chatham, Ontario, where he played for the Chatham Coloured All-Stars, the first all-Black baseball team to win an Ontario Amateur Baseball Association
championship.
Early Career and Achievements
Ferguson Jenkins Sr. started his baseball career playing on teams in Detroit. His talent was recognized by Earl "Flat" Chase, who convinced him to join the Chatham Coloured All-Stars in Chatham, Ontario. Jenkins Sr. played as an outfielder and was typically first in the batting order. His skills on the field were well-regarded, with teammate Kingsley Terrell noting Jenkins Sr.'s ability to catch balls thought to be uncatchable. This prowess contributed to the All-Stars' historic win as the first all-Black team to secure an Ontario Amateur Baseball Association championship.
Personal Life and Family
Born in Windsor, Ontario, Jenkins Sr. was the son of Joseph Jenkins and Gertrude Holmes, immigrants from Barbados. He married Delores Jackson in 1942, and they had one child, Ferguson Arthur Jenkins. Jenkins Sr.'s love for baseball was passed down to his son, who went on to have a successful career in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a pitcher for several teams, including the Philadelphia Phillies, Chicago Cubs, Texas Rangers, and Boston Red Sox. Despite Delores losing her sight, she remained a supportive presence at her son's games, following along via radio.
Legacy and Recognition
Ferguson Jenkins Sr.'s contributions to baseball were recognized long after his playing days. In 2022, Jenkins Sr. and his Chatham Coloured All-Stars teammates were awarded the Order of Sport, marking their induction into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. This honor reflects the lasting impact Jenkins Sr. had on Canadian baseball, both through his own achievements and the legacy carried on by his son. Jenkins Sr. passed away in 1996 at the age of 87, leaving behind a rich history in the sport and a family deeply connected to baseball.
