William Ellsworth Hoy

by Keith Boepple
(Arlington, TX)

A picture of Dummy Hoy

My favorite historical figure from Deaf History is one of the least known - even in his own field. His name is William Ellsworth Hoy. He was often called "Dummy" Hoy. He is the first Deaf Person to have a successful career in Major League Baseball. Hoy play from 1886 to 1902. According to many sources (online, encyclopedias, the tour guides at the Legends of the Game Museum, Arlington, TX), Hoy changed the game of baseball because of his style of play and his passion for the game.

Hoy's biggest contribution is this: the hand signals used by umpires for balls, strikes, safe, and out are all because of him. In short - all fans of baseball are better able to enjoy the game because of him.

There is a website dedicated to his story at http://www.dummyhoy.com. A great story. A wonderful piece of the history of the Deaf Culture.