Ramsey County History Spring 2023 – Billy Williams

Volume 58, Number 1: Spring 2023

From a Star on the Ball Diamond to a Star at the Minnesota State Capitol
Billy Williams

Author: Frank M. White

In 1904, Billy Williams would have been happy making a living playing baseball. He loved the sport. He was good at it and was frequently asked to play for many regional teams. Perhaps he could have gone farther—but for the color of his skin. He knew an offer in the big leagues was an impossible dream. That’s when a different offer came along. The newly elected Minnesota Governor John A. Johnson had watched the ballplayer for years. Johnson was impressed with Williams’ leadership skills and asked the twenty-seven-year-old to work as his messenger at the capitol. Neither man could have imagined that Williams would serve fourteen governors over fifty-two years. He welcomed guests to the reception room, gave tours of the capitol building, and stood as gatekeeper between his bosses and the public. It’s also likely he was asked his opinion about issues of race on occasion. And, of course, while he was still young, Williams continued to play ball—on weekends and vacation—much to his delight. (169)

PDF of F. White article

Billy Williams Supplement PDF #1
Billy Williams Supplement PDF #2
Billy Williams Supplement PDF #3