From Hub to Legend: The Boston Sports Legacy with Richard Johnson ’78
The Class of 1978 invites you to an hour with Richard Johnson ’78 to learn about how Boston became—and continues to be—what many consider to be the nation’s sports capital.
This virtual gathering is hosted by the Class of 1978, but it is open to all!
About Richard A. Johnson ’78
Shortly after graduating from Bates in 1978 with a B.A. in Fine Arts, Richard Johnson began his career in the Boston sports world, serving primarily as curator for 42 years at The Sports Museum of New England in Boston. His work there also included the acquisition and assembly of collections for the museum and research center, helping to design the layout and programs of five separate facilities along with creating over thirty special exhibits. During his tenure, he also served as a museum spokesperson as well as working within the areas of design, public relations, development, marketing, special events, and government relations.
Beyond his work at the Museum itself, Richard served as a consultant on a host of projects, including ones with Major League Baseball and the Baseball Hall of Fame, Ken Burn’s Baseball documentary, the U.S. Marathon Museum, and the Museum of the Marathon in Greece, along with various initiatives involving each of the four major professional sports teams in Boston. He authored or co-authored a couple dozen books on topics from Fenway Park to the Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, Patriots, Dodgers, and Jackie Robinson, as well as the marathoner Johnny Kelly. In true “Renaissance man” fashion, Richard even wrote the lyrics to “Jimmy Collins,” a Dropkick Murphys’ recording.
Richard met his wife Mary the summer of 1977 in Ireland when both worked for the Irish Georgian Society. Mary recently retired from the U.S. Treasury Department, where she worked as an attorney for 36 years. They have two children, Robert and Elizabeth, both of whom are married.