Old Louisville in Jefferson County, Kentucky — The American South (East South Central)
Columbia Gym
Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, November 26, 2020
1. Columbia Gym Marker (Side A)
In 1941, the Louisville Service Club opened in the former Knights of Columbus and Columbia Auditorium building. The club provided weekend housing and entertainment for service men in the city in the lead up to US entry into World War II. The Columbia Gym was in the basement. Operated by the city parks dept., it provided recreation for youth.
At Columbia Gym, a young Muhammad Ali, then Cassius Clay, told Louisville Police Officer Joe Martin he was going to “whup” whoever stole his bike. Martin became Ali’s first trainer. Martin introduced Ali to regional audiences through the local boxing show, “Tomorrow’s Champions,” and encouraged him to compete in the 1960 Rome Olympics.
Erected 2020 by Kentucky Historical Society and Kentucky Department of Highways. (Marker Number 2592.)
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: African Americans • Parks & Recreational Areas • Sports • War, World II. In addition, it is included in the Kentucky Historical Society series list. A significant historical year for this entry is 1941.
Location. 38° 14.593′ N, 85° 45.54′ W. Marker is in Louisville, Kentucky, in Jefferson County. It is in Old Louisville. Marker is on South 4th Street south of
this page online
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. The Derek Smith Gymnasium at Spalding University (here, next to this marker); Calvary Episcopal Church (within shouting distance of this marker); Dr. J.B. Marvin House (about 300 feet away, measured in a direct line); Immanuel Baptist Church / First Christian-Lampton Baptist (about 300 feet away); First Unitarian Church (about 400 feet away); Presentation Academy (about 400 feet away); Murray Atkins Walls (about 400 feet away); Thierman Apartments (about 600 feet away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Louisville.
Also see . . . Spaulding University unveils Muhammad Ali historical marker (YouTube, 1 min.). (Submitted on June 6, 2021.)
Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, November 26, 2020
2. Columbia Gym Marker (Side B)
Photographed By Duane and Tracy Marsteller, November 26, 2020
3. Columbia Gym Marker
The building now houses Spalding University's basketball and volleyball court, as well as athletic offices and student fitness center, lounge and health clinic. The red bicycle above the entrance represents the iconic Muhammad Ali story.
Credits. This page was last revised on February 12, 2023. It was originally submitted on December 1, 2020, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This page has been viewed 399 times since then and 66 times this year. Photos: 1, 2. submitted on December 1, 2020, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee. 3. submitted on December 3, 2020, by Duane and Tracy Marsteller of Murfreesboro, Tennessee.
