Robert Etzel - Hitchhiking to Wrigley and Minor League Baseball in the 1950s

The Moonlight Graham Show

In this episode of the Moonlight Graham show, the spotlight shines on Robert Etzel, a nonagenarian who once played a short-lived professional baseball season back in 1955. With a record of 19 games, Robert might not have made a significant mark statistically, but his story and connection to the small town of Fort Dodge, Iowa make him a compelling guest.

Robert's journey is not just about those 19 games. He grew up in Fort Dodge during the 1940s and 1950s, played junior college baseball and football at Iowa Central, starred in three sports at Simpson College, and even had a brief stint with the barnstorming House of David baseball team.

This episode is an unedited treasure that paints a vivid picture of a bygone era, taking listeners on a nostalgic trip to small-town Iowa. Through old newspaper clippings, personal anecdotes, and the charismatic storytelling of Robert, listeners can explore a different time, understanding the rich tapestry of memories woven by someone who has truly lived through it. This episode is not just about celebrating sports and players; it's also about honoring the generations that preceded us and preserving their stories. Dive in and spend an hour with Robert Etzel, a man who, with his tales, encapsulates the essence of the Moonlight Graham show - to spotlight stories worth telling.