Introduction to Gene Autry
Gene Autry was an American singer, actor, radio and television personality, and businessman who gained fame as the “Singing Cowboy.” He was a Hollywood star in the 1930s and ’40s and was one of the most popular film stars of the era. Autry was also a successful business entrepreneur, holding numerous business and real estate interests, including owning the Los Angeles Angels baseball team.
Gene Autry’s Career
Gene Autry’s career began in 1929 when he was signed by Columbia Records. He was the first artist to record the soon-to-be-popular “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” in 1949. Autry’s career in film began with a supporting role in the 1930 movie The Big Trail. He soon became a leading man in B-westerns in the 1930s and ’40s. He also starred in a long-running radio show and a television show in the 1950s and ’60s.
Gene Autry’s Business Ventures
Gene Autry was a successful businessman with numerous business and real estate interests. He established the Gene Autry Flying A Ranch, a large cattle ranch in Texas, and acquired several other ranches in California and Arizona. He owned a radio station, KMPC, and a television station in Los Angeles, KTLA. He was also a thoroughbred horse racing fan and owned several racehorses.
Gene Autry and the Los Angeles Angels
Gene Autry is best known for his ownership of the Los Angeles Angels baseball team. He purchased the team in 1961, making him the first owner of a major league baseball team in the western United States. Autry was a hands-on owner, often attending games and interacting with players and fans. He was also a vocal advocate for the team, often appearing on television and radio shows to promote the Angels.
Gene Autry’s Impact on the Angels
Gene Autry made numerous changes to the Angels organization during his ownership. He was instrumental in the team’s move from Los Angeles to Anaheim in 1966. He also made changes to the team’s uniforms, logo and colors. Autry also hired several of the most successful managers in Angels history, including manager Whitey Herzog and general manager Buzzie Bavasi.
Gene Autry and the Players
Gene Autry was a beloved owner who was respected by the players. He was known for treating players fairly and paying them well. Autry was also generous with bonuses and awards, often taking players out to dinner and giving them gifts. He was a hands-on owner who often interacted with players and gave advice on their performance.
Gene Autry’s Legacy with the Angels
Gene Autry’s legacy with the Angels remains strong even after his death in 1998. He is remembered as a beloved owner who had a great impact on the team. He was an innovator who brought the team to Anaheim and changed the team’s logo and uniforms. He was also a generous owner who was respected by the players and fans.
Gene Autry’s Impact on Baseball
Gene Autry’s ownership of the Los Angeles Angels had a profound impact on baseball in the western United States. He was the first owner of a major league baseball team in the western United States, paving the way for other teams in the region. He was also an innovator who made changes to the team’s uniforms and logo. Autry’s ownership of the Angels also paved the way for expansion teams in the 1980s.
Gene Autry’s Later Life
Gene Autry continued to be involved in numerous business ventures after his retirement from the Angels. He remained involved in the entertainment industry, making appearances in films and television. He also remained active in the real estate and horse racing industries.
Conclusion
Gene Autry was an iconic American singer, actor, and businessman who had a lasting impact on the Los Angeles Angels. He was the first owner of a major league baseball team in the western United States and made numerous changes to the team. Autry was a beloved owner who was respected by players and fans and his legacy with the Angels remains strong even after his death in 1998.