This week in Chippewa Valley history.
Born in New Richmond on November 27, 1903. Known for football.
Born in New Richmond, WI, on November 27, 1903, John “Johnny Blood” McNally became a prominent football player. He played for several NFL teams, including the Green Bay Packers, where he helped win four championships. McNally was known for his athleticism and leadership. He played for 14 seasons and earned a spot on the NFL 1930s All-Decade Team. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963 as one of its first members. McNally also served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. After his playing career, he briefly coached and later worked in New Richmond, running an employment agency. His colorful career and memorable personality made him a well-known figure in football history. McNally passed away on November 28, 1985, in Palm Springs, California.
John McNally died November 28, 1985, New Richmond native
John Victor McNally, known as Johnny Blood, died November 28, 1985. He was a professional football player and coach from New Richmond, Wisconsin. McNally played 14 NFL seasons for six teams, mainly with the Green Bay Packers. He helped the Packers win four championships in the early 1930s and mid-1930s. McNally was known for his speed, agility, and pass-catching ability. After his playing career, he coached the Pittsburgh Pirates (Steelers) and the Kenosha Cardinals. During World War II, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps. After the war, he returned to education and coaching. McNally was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963 as a charter member. He later ran an employment agency in New Richmond and earned advanced degrees. A marker honoring him stands at Immaculate Conception Cemetery in his hometown.
Richmond native Johnny “Blood” McNally died November 28, 1985
Johnny “Blood” McNally died on November 28, 1985, from a stroke, one day after his 82nd birthday. He was born on November 27, 1903, in New Richmond, Wisconsin. McNally played professional football for 14 seasons, mainly with the Green Bay Packers. He helped the team win four NFL championships. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1963 as a charter member. After his playing career, he served in the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He also earned degrees in economics from Saint John’s University and the University of Minnesota. McNally coached football at different levels, including as head coach of the Pittsburgh Pirates. He is buried in New Richmond. His early life in Richmond shaped his path. McNally’s achievements are part of Richmond’s sports history and American football history.
