Remembering “Steel Arm” Johnny Taylor
The dedication of the memorial honoring John Taylor, former Negro Leagues player and manager, took place at Springdale Cemetery 3014 N. Prospect Rd., Peoria, Illinois on Sunday, May 6, 2007.
Jonathan Boyce Taylor, “Steel Arm” Johnny, retired to Peoria and died in 1956 and was laid to rest in Springdale in an unmarked grave. Through the efforts of local anesthesiologist and SABR member Dr. Jeremy Krock, Melinda Figge and the Pekin YWCA, the students of District 108 and other contributors a stone was purchased and place on the grave of this baseball pioneer.
According to organizers, it is most appropriate that John Taylor’s final resting spot is along the section of the Rock Island Trail as it passes through Springdale, because the trail will unite communities and people as baseball has done for generations.
Originally published: May 7, 2007. Last Updated: May 7, 2007.