Through his historic ownership of the Boston Red Sox, Tom Yawkey became a notable figure in Major League Baseball. He was also well-known for the many interests that occupied much of his time away from baseball. He was an avid outdoorsman who valued the natural world and a generous soul who was always ready to help those in need. Tom Yawkey lives on today thanks to his lifetime of work and his foresight to ensure that the people and causes he cared about most would continue to receive support long after his time.
Tom Yawkey and outfielder Reggie Smith in 1967. Photo courtesy of the Yawkey Foundation.
Boston Red Sox Owner
Tom Yawkey purchased the Boston Red Sox in 1933 when he was just 30 years old. Over the next four decades, he led the team as a lover of baseball who strove to make the Red Sox the best in the league. His ownership transformed the team from a lackluster franchise to the pride of Boston, winning three American League Championships during his tenure. Tom’s mark on the team is lasting, and he was posthumously inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1980.
Tom Yawkey in his office. Photo courtesy of the National Baseball Hall of Fame Library.
Founder of the Yawkey Foundation
Tom Yawkey lived by the following motto: “Do what is right, do it quietly, and don’t expect praise for being kind.” The Yawkey Foundation, which Tom established, is privileged to perpetuate his legacy by supporting causes that were important to him during his lifetime. The unifying theme of Tom’s personal giving was a desire to enhance the lives of others through access to health care, education, basic services, and athletic opportunities, as well as by preserving nature for future generations. This work continues today through the Yawkey Foundation.