Wabash College Athletics

Francis W. Bacon came to Wabash in 1914 from South Bend and lettered three times in two sports. He captained and played on the "Second Wonder Five" basketball team; played on coach Paul Sheeks' 1915 undefeated 7-0-1 football team that tied Purdue 7-7; and participated in baseball. 

A back guard on the 1916-17 basketball team, Bacon helped Wabash to a 19-2 record and was named to the All-Indiana Basketball Team, an honor he earned three times. On the gridiron, Bacon lettered three times and helped Wabash to a 20-11 record.

Bacon left Wabash in 1918 and reported to the U.S. Army Aeronautical Engineering School at Ohio State. Professional baseball with the Detroit Americans followed his stint in the Army. Bacon also played professional basketball in Fort Wayne from 1919-1924. In addition to baseball and basketball, Bacon managed to squeeze in playing time with the Dayton Triangles, a charter member of the National Football League.

After he retired from professional athletics, Bacon spent his time as a professional and collegiate official. A member of the Indiana High School Basketball Hall of Fame, he was active in numerous civic organizations until his death on August 31, 1977.