JAMES “JIM” HALES

2005 Effingham County Sports Hall of Fame Inductee

     Jim Hales was born on May 3, 1922 in Meldrim, Georgia, the oldest of eight children.  He began school in Meldrim  and graduated from Marlow Consolidated  School in 1940.

     Jim grew up with a love for baseball.  He started playing the game in his early teens in Meldrim and continued playing through high school, earning himself a spot  in semi pro ball in the early 1940’s.

    Early in his semi pro career, Jim joined the United States Army where he served until 1946.  He resumed playing baseball upon his return to Effingham County.

    He played in the late 40’s and early 50’s in the Little Ogeechee League under the management of his brother, John Hales.  He later played in the Savannah River League for many years.

    Jim’s love for baseball never died.  In his late years, he would watch games from his front porch, overlooking the Meldrim ballpark.  Jim was also an avid fisherman.