New Ulm HALL OF FAME Member

Joseph (Joe) Harman

Non-Player (Special Support)

Selected 2000

           To many of New Ulm's old-time baseball fans, Joe Harman is credited with being the single most instrumental person in beginning the New Ulm baseball tradition. It was his efforts that began American Legion baseball and developed the wonderful group of baseball players who achieved outstanding successes for New Ulm in the 1940’s and early 50’s.

            In the early 1930’s, Harman used his own money to start a summer youth baseball program. In 1933, Joe initiated the American Legion team, and he coached it until 1939. In 1934, when baseball was started at New Ulm High School, he was the coach.

            Joe finally became official park and recreation director in 1936, when the city first decided to fund the program.

            When in 1939 New Ulm’s two amateur teams were combined, the managers Harry Brand and Andy Bastian brought in Harman as coach of the first team.

            The continued tradition of excellent baseball in New Ulm can be traced back to the contributions made by Joe Harman, who became known as the father of the park and recreation program in New Ulm.

            Harmon has also been selected to the American Legion Hall of Fame.