Burke vs Bowen: The Longest Boxing Match in History

During the late 19th century, America was going through a period of profound economic transformation. The Industrial Revolution was in full swing, cities were expanding rapidly, and the country was transitioning from an agrarian society to an industrial powerhouse.

This era was also marked by significant financial turbulence, including the financial panics in 1884 and 1893. These resulted in bank failures, business closures, and widespread unemployment.

It was also during this time that the popularity of boxing reached unprecedented heights. Boxers were no longer anonymous figures but national celebrities with controversial personalities. Their fights were greatly anticipated events and the media covered them extensively.

Jack Burke and Andy Bowen were two such celebrated figures who emerged as boxing stars during this era. Their historic match, which took place on April 6, 1893, in New Orleans, Louisiana, became known as the longest boxing match in history, lasting an astonishing 110 rounds over seven hours and 19 minutes.

Late 19th-Century Boxing: A Glimpse into a Bygone Era

By the end of the 19th century, the sport of boxing had evolved into a major pastime. It attracted millions of spectators from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life.

Before the radio, boxing matches were one of the main sources of entertainment. They provided a temporary escape from the financial worries and uncertainties that plagued the nation during this tumultuous period.

This growing fascination with boxing wasn’t merely coincidental. The panic of 1893 had cast a looming shadow over the country. People needed an outlet and they found that outlet through watching modern-day gladiators fighting it out in a ring.

The Fighters: Andy Bowen and Jack Burke

The names Andy Bowen and Jack Burke may not be well known to people today but during their heyday in the 1890s these men were national icons.

Andy Bowen (1867-1894)

Andy Bowen was born in New Orleans in 1867. He began his boxing career in his early twenties and rapidly gained recognition as a skilled and formidable fighter.

Bowen was known for his strong build, robust physique, and resilience in the ring. Bowen was highly regarded for his relentless fighting spirit and the ability to withstand grueling bouts.

Jack Burke (1873-1942)

Jack Burke was born in 1873 and enjoyed considerable success during the late 19th century. His reputation as a fighter grew as he scored multiple victories in the ring, earning him recognition as a formidable contender.

Burke was known for his agility, quick footwork, and an adaptable fighting style.

The Historic Fight

On April 6, 1893, approximately 8,500 spectators gathered to witness the historic boxing match.

Initially, Bowen had arranged the fight with another opponent, but when that opponent withdrew, Jack Burke stepped into the ring.

This epic contest endured for 110 rounds, spanning over seven hours with each round lasting three minutes. The fight went on so long that some spectators fell asleep in their seats. By the 108th round, with no apparent victor, referee John Duffy decided that if there was no winner in the next two rounds, the fight would be declared a “no contest.”

After two more exhausting rounds, the fighters were unable to emerge from their corners. Duffy ultimately declared the match a “no contest.” Jack Burke had broken all the bones in both his hands, which left him bedridden for six weeks.

The Aftermath

Not much is known about John Burke after the historic bout with Andy Bowen. The only thing that is known for sure is that despite the severe injuries to his hands, Burke did not immediately retire from boxing. Instead, he chose to continue competing.

Tragically, Andy Bowen’s life and boxing career came to a devastating end during his final fight.

On April 22, 1894, just a year after his historic match with Jack Burke, Andy Bowen faced another formidable opponent, Charles “Jack” Harris.

It was an intense fight that took a toll on Bowen. After several rounds of intense fighting combined with the suffocating heat inside the arena, it started to become clear that Bowen was getting weaker.

During the 18th round, Bowen’s body gave out and he collapsed from exhaustion in the ring. He was removed from the ring and treated for his injuries and heat stroke. He was treated with ice baths to bring down his core temperature but his condition only worsened.

The next day on April 23, 1894, Andy Bowen succumbed to his injuries. He was only 27 years old.

The Significance of the Bowen vs. Burke Match

Bowen vs. Burke’s legacy serves as a reminder of the sport’s roots. It was a time when fighters weren’t just athletes but warriors battling exhaustion and adversity.

We have to remember that during this time America was transitioning from gas lamps to eclectic lights. Street lights and electrified venues meant that people could stay out longer, no more going to bed as soon as the sun went down. This opened up a whole new world of entertainment during a time when people needed it the most.

The marathon fight between Bowen and Burke captured the public’s imagination and diverted their attention from their own economic hardships. It became a symbol of endurance and resilience, offering a sense of hope and inspiration to the public.

The Legacy of Bowen and Burke

The Bowen vs. The Burke match was the most talked about event of the year and became a significant part of the American zeitgeist. Newspapers and periodicals provided extensive coverage, while the fight inspired discussions, debates, and even theatrical adaptations.

The match also influenced the sport of boxing itself. It set a precedent for otherlong fights by underscoring the importance of conditioning, training, and the limits of the human body.

In modern times, this iconic fight has continued to inspire various forms of media. Documentaries and books have delved into the details of the match, celebrating the fortitude of Bowen and Burke. Their story has become a symbol of unwavering determination, transcending time and inspiring new generations of athletes and enthusiasts.