The African American Experience 

Boxing Instruction, Colonial Park Recreation Center, Manhattan

Courtesy of New York City Parks Photo Archive, Neg. 21268. In December 1941, the Parks Department announced the inauguration of a boxing instruction program at nine park recreation buildings, including the Colonial Park Play Center in West Harlem. Parks recreation personnel were trained to teach "the fundamentals of the art of self-defense." Former World Heavy-weight champ Gene Tunney was a special advisor to the program which was sponsored by Bernard Gimbel, president of the Gimbel's department store. The program was aimed at young men and boys over 14 years old, and was intended "to enhance physical well being... in wholesome surroundings."