This cemetery is devoid of a tradition-style geocache, so I am placing this one here in Ernie Davis's honor. The cache is a small lock n lock, located about 140ft from Ernie's grave. The cache is not located near any other gravestones, so please do not disturb. Please be respectful and only hunt for this one during daylight hours.
Ernie Davis, born in 1939 in Pennsylvania and raised in Elmira, New York, rose from humble beginnings to become a groundbreaking figure in American sports history. Excelling in multiple sports in high school, Davis chose to attend Syracuse University, where he played football and followed in the footsteps of legendary running back Jim Brown. Wearing the famed number 44 jersey, Davis quickly made a name for himself with his speed, strength, and grace on the field.
At Syracuse, Davis led the Orangemen to an undefeated season in 1959 and a national championship, earning MVP honors in the Cotton Bowl despite enduring racism both on and off the field. His standout college career culminated in 1961 when he became the first African American to win the Heisman Trophy, breaking a major racial barrier in collegiate athletics. His poise, dignity, and excellence both on and off the field made him a symbol of progress during the Civil Rights era.
Tragically, Davis was diagnosed with leukemia shortly after being drafted first overall in the 1962 NFL Draft by the Washington Redskins, who then traded him to the Cleveland Browns. He never got the chance to play a professional game and died in 1963 at the age of 23. Despite his short life, Ernie Davis left an enduring legacy as a trailblazer and inspiration. He is remembered not only for his athletic achievements but also for his courage, humility, and impact on the fight for racial equality in sports.