James C. Melby
James C. Melby (1949-February 11, 2007) was an American professional wrestling historian and magazine editor, publishing almost 100 wrestling projects since 1991.[1]
Career
Melby's first publication was Matmania which he started aged 15 in his home state of
Melby also published wrestling profiles under a Wrestling Facts banner, which were career retrospective booklets featuring many early stars such as Gagne,
Aside from periodicals, Melby also wrote two books. First was Mat Wars! in 1985, written with Gagne, profiling the AWA's roster and stars of the period. His second was Gopherland Grappling: The Early Years, a pictorial book showcasing Minnesota wrestling history, came twenty-one years later in 2006, and featured photographs he had taken over the years. The book was planned as the first of two due to the amount of material Melby has amassed.
Melby's later work included contributing to the newsletters of the Cauliflower Alley Club, of which he was Photographical Librarian, and continued to write for Wrestling Revue. Outside of wrestling, he also published articles about music and architecture.
In 2006 the Iowa-based
Personal life
His personal life included a battle with
Melby was found dead beside his bed on February 11, 2007, and is survived by his mother June, daughter Michelle and son-in-law Chad. He had corresponded with friends online the night before his death.[1]
Awards and accomplishments
- George Tragos/Lou Thesz Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame
- James C. Melby Award (2006)
References
- ^ SLAM! Wrestling. Retrieved 2011-10-14.
| International | |
|---|---|
| National | |
