Hometown of Tris Speaker
Hubbard, Hill County, Texas
Marker Inscription
(1888 - 1958) A legend in his own time, Tris Speaker was born, educated and buried here. Known as the Grey Eagle, he was the first Texan named to National Baseball Hall of Fame. First man elevated to Texas Sports Hall of Fame. Was on Boston's 1912 and 1915 World Series winning teams. Managed Cleveland Indians in their first pennant win, 1920. At 18 began professional play at $50 a month. Became a smart, able business man. Never wasted big money of playing career. Always "came home" to Hubbard. Here he was lifetime member of volunteer fire department.
Erected by Texas Historical Commission
The Story
Tris Speaker (1888–1958) — the "Grey Eagle" — was born, schooled, and buried in Hubbard, and became the first Texan elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame. A star center fielder, he won World Series titles with Boston in 1912 and 1915 and managed Cleveland to its first pennant in 1920. Shrewd with the money of his playing days, he always came home to Hubbard, where he served as a lifetime member of the volunteer fire department.
Why it matters
Speaker is one of the towering figures of early professional baseball, and his hometown ties show how America's small towns claimed and celebrated their national heroes.
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Related people
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Themes & tags
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