Mayor Charles Ackley and the Rev Jack Wells made an agreement that, if the NY Giants beat the Brooklyn Dodgers, they would push Ray Luke across Main Street in a wheelbarrow at high noon before the first world series game.
Accustomed to the details of the funeral business, O.K. Spurr took care of such items as having a large placard printed with the inscription “Dodgers Buried at High Noon, Mayor Charles Ackley and the Rev Jack Wells Officiating”. The sign was appropriately edged in black. Mr. Spurr also arranged for several pall bearers.
At the appointed hour, all participants were on hand, and Ray enjoyed a fast trip from the Cambridge Diner to the West End of town, proudly waving his placard.
[ Ken’s notes ]
The NY Giants won the 1954 NL pennant by 5 games over the Brooklyn Dodgers.
The Giants then defeated the Cleveland Indians 4-0 to win the World Series.
Willie Mayes (NYG) led the NL in batting at .345 followed Don Mueller (NYG) at .342 and Duke Snider (BRO) at .341.
Ted Kluszewski led the NL in homers with 49 followed by Gil Hodges (BRO) with 42 and Willie Mayes (NYG) with 41.
In 1958 the Dodgers moved to LA and the Giants to San Francisco, breaking the hearts of NY baseball fans.