(SEPT 23) As many of you know by now, I have been covering women’s boxing since 1998, over 27 years on the net, and adding to two years prior to that, with doing extensive research on the women's boxing history of the sport.  Unfortunately, throughout these years of covering the sport—I hear time and time again, that this incident and that incident was a “History First.”

Which brings me up to today's story on a bit of history that is the story of Jeanne La Mar who holds a special place in the history of Women's Boxing.

On July 17, 1923, La Mar became the first woman to receive a boxing license in New Jersey, a milestone that paved the way for future generations of female fighters. While some might mistakenly attribute this groundbreaking achievement to later decades, it was indeed La Mar who received a boxing license when most of us were not even born! 

 
Byline on News Article:  "It isn’t every Woman that gets a license to fight—and it isn’t every woman that needs one. Miss Jeanne La Mar, the female bantam and featherweight titles of the world. There she is with the first license issued in the world by way of New Jersey."

When Jeanne La Mar stepped into the spotlight on that fateful July day, she not only made history for herself but also carved a niche for women in the sport as a pioneer trailblazer in the sport.

As per reports from WBAN (Women Boxing Archive Network), La Mar’s licensing was a well-documented event, yet it seems that her pivotal role has been overshadowed by subsequent claims of “firsts.”

Despite La Mar's dedication, she faced numerous challenges along the way. Notably, La Mar initially applied for a boxing license in New York on June 25, 1922.  [WBAN received a copy of the New York Form in about 1999].

Jeanne La Mar applied for a New York Boxing License on June 25, 1922.  La Mar was born April 14, 1896.

The coverage surrounding La Mar’s achievement was profound. A notable mention from the Lowell Sun News described her as “the female bantam and featherweight titles of the world,” highlighting both her talent and the importance of her accomplishment.

Despite the clear documentation of La Mar’s achievement, there remains a persistent myths surrounding “firsts” in women’s boxing. Many have been led to believe that licenses for female boxers only emerged in later decades.

Jeanne La Mar’s receipt of the first boxing license in New Jersey on July 17, 1923, remains a moment in the history of women’s boxing.

The Herald, Saturday Evening - August 12, 1922
Byline: "France's Champion Woman Boxer" - Training in New York with male partner preparing for a fight against for the hope of defeating Laura Bennett, an American boxer.

Interesting read of more News Stories:

‘Countess’ Jeanne LaMar: The Enigmatic Life and Tragic Death of Boxing’s ‘Mystery Lady’--Link

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