Whiskers Savage (1900-1967)

Real Name - Edgar Civil

Lifespan - 3/9/00 - 1/7/67

6’3” 250 lbs. - Ashland, KY

Athletic Background - Boxing [Pro]

Teacher(s) - n/a

Aliases - Eddie Civil, Bull Civil, Bob Savage, Leo Savage, Daniel Boone Savage, White  Savage

Peak Years - 1930s

Place in History - The 1930s were a difficult time for Americans as the Great Depression ravaged the psyche of the country.  Hungering for heroes, the nation often looked to sports heroes and pro-wrestling fans in the south found an unusual one.  Likely inspired by Man Mountain Dean, a World War I veteran and former boxer Eddie Civil grew out a bushy beard and long mane and took on a Kentucky hillbilly persona.  Houston promoter Morris Sigel found his top star and everyone ate it up. Whiskers Savage, often tacked on the handle “Daniel Boone,” evoking the free-spirited frontiersman, to add to his distinct charm.  The press were amused by the character and the fans were intrigued to see him mix it up with the likes of Danno O’Mahoney, Doc Sarpolis and Ray Steele. These classic wrestlers battling an unskilled bumpkin appealed to the fans.  Perhaps it was the novelty. Perhaps the idea of a down-on-his-luck country boy trying to make his way. It worked and Sigel booked him successfully for a stretch that he considered the key for establishing the Houston office, which lasted for over fifty years.  Even Jim Londos was bested by the Savage, who was a world title claimant for a time as a result. His act became so successful that he became a touring attraction for a time and landed a spot in a Humphrey Bogart movie. He continued wrestling until 1960 before settling in Florida for his final years.