For our first episode of Your History Your Story, we explore the life of my great-grand uncle, the notorious prize fighter Orville “Awful” Gardner. Born near Newburgh, New York, he lived much of his life in NYC, where he became known as a fearsome prize fighter, emigrant runner and bully.  However, following the drowning death of his seven year old son, his life changed dramatically. In his later years, he helped found one of the earliest alcohol recovery support groups in the country. He also inspired one of the first homeless rescue missions in NYC. 

Photo(s): Courtesy of James Gardner, illustrated by Jamie Conlon

Music: "With Loved Ones" Jay Man