Art Johnson

Art Johnson (Class of 1921)

Art "Axel" Johnson was a powerful athlete and voted one of the five greatest athletes of the half century (1900-1950).  Art was an all-around athlete and played both football and basketball in high school.  While there are few details about Art's high school career, he attracted the attention of professional football scouts.  Art played professionally for the Duluth Eskimos and Ernie Nevers.  The Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, Ohio has a portion dedicated to the pioneers of the NFL and the Eskimos are featured.  The Eskimo jacket on display belonged to Art.  Art also toured with Jack Woodward's "fabulous five" basketball team compiling a winning streak of 52 consecutive games.  Art worked for the D.M.I.R Railroad as a pipefitter and always enjoyed Agate Athletics.