The Morganville Barons
Before World War II, Joe LaMura and his brothers Richie and Frankie formed a baseball team called "The Morganville Barons." They played other teams in the area, primarily those in Matawan, Keyport and Leonardo.
The team disbanded in 1942 after nearly all of the players joined the armed forces to defend our country. Joe, Richie and Frankie served with the Marine Corps.
After the war, Joe revived the team and became its manager. He recruited his brothers and other war veterans to play on the team. The Matawan High School baseball field became their home field.
Initially, the team name was the "V-Barons", because the team was made up mostly of "Valiant, Victorious Veterans".
Eventually, they joined a semi-pro league and became the Matawan Barons. Joe's father took over management of the team.
The photo below was taken in 1946. Joe would have been 26, and the twins Richie and Frankie 23. Their mother Leona is in the photo and it's possible that Joe's father took the picture.
Presumably, this is after their season opener on May 12 when they defeated the Brennan's Recreation team from South Amboy 13-0.
Who is the blonde lady standing prominently in front of the team? It could be Lillian Hunter, a member of the Matawan High School faculty who sang the National Anthem at the end of the game.
Photo courtesy Marlene LaMura
It should be noted that Richie and Frankie were signed to a minor league contract with the
Chicago Cubs that year, but seem to have hung around the rest of the summer to play for the Barons.
LANZARA-LANZARO FAMILY HISTORY
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