| James "Soldier Boy" Semler | |
| Office: | Co-owner of the New York Black Yankees |
| Alongside: | Bill Robinson |
| Occupation: | Sports executive |
James "Soldier Boy" Semler was an American sports executive who co-owned the New York Black Yankees of the Negro National League. For much of the club's history, he owned the team along with Bill Robinson.[1]
Semler worked as a tailor in Harlem.[2]
When the Harlem Stars reorganized as the New York Black Yankees in 1932, Semler served as the club's inaugural secretary.[3] In 1933, Semler, with the help of Nat Strong, secured control of the team after president M.E. Goodson and treasurer Oscar Barnes withdrew their financial interests.[4] He retained the role of secretary while also acting as team president.[5]
In March 1935, George Scales, who managed the club from 1932 to 1934, sued Semler, arguing that he had no right to be team's sole owner.[6]
During the 1935 season, Semler expressed disinterest in the Black Yankees joining the Negro National League,[7] though the club would ultimately join the league for 1936.[8]