Lou Partlow (July 23 1892 – June 3 1961) was an American professional football player, best known for scoring the first touchdown in National Football League (NFL) history. He played as a halfback for the Dayton Triangles, a franchise that competed in the Ohio League before becoming a charter member of the NFL (originally the American Professional Football Association) in 1920.
Early life and education
- Born in Meadow, West Virginia.
- Attended West Virginia University, where he played college football as a halfback.
Professional career
- Joined the Dayton Triangles in 1918, participating in the Ohio League.
- When the APFA (renamed the NFL in 1922) commenced its inaugural season in 1920, Partlow scored the league’s first official touchdown on October 3, 1920, during a 14–0 victory over the Columbus Panhandles.
- Continued to play for the Triangles through the 1924 season, appearing in 29 NFL games and compiling 114 rushing yards, 1 rushing touchdown, and additional contributions on defense and special teams.
Later life
- After retiring from football, Partlow returned to West Virginia, where he worked in the coal industry.
- Served in the United States Army during World War I.
Legacy
- Recognized by the Pro Football Hall of Fame as the scorer of the NFL’s inaugural touchdown.
- His contribution is noted in historical accounts of the league’s formation and early development.
References
- Pro Football Hall of Fame archives.
- NFL historical statistics.
- Contemporary newspaper reports from 1920 documenting the Dayton Triangles vs. Columbus Panhandles game.
