Shorty is one of the few players ever to win world titles at both pocket and three cushion billiards, which is one reason he was honored with election into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame in 1999.

"As a teenager Larry set up pins at the local bowling alley. One of the fringe benefits was the use of the pool table. In his off time he would practice for hours at a time. Soon he was making balls with ease.

He was a natural. He got better with each passing month. Knowing how good he was he started making the rounds of the local poolrooms, playing for cash. His mother thought he was in school but he was knocking in balls by the hundreds. He would eat his packed lunch right there in the pool hall.

In 1949, after a hitch in the army, Larry went to work in a shoe factory and a book binding company. It was then he decided to become a professional pool player. He knew he could make more money playing pool. What he didn't know was that he would become one of the best billiardists in the country. After many tours and road trips, Larry was a seasoned pro. The money was flowing, tournaments, challenge matches or just pick up games.

Then came JOHNSTON CITY, the World Hustler's All Around. Larry fit right in, cool, confident and talented. In the finals he played Harold Worst and Luther Lassiter. These matches were televised by ABC Sports. Millions of people found out about a guy called "Boston Shorty". He would also be one of very few men to win major titles in 8 ball, 9 ball, one pocket, straight pool and billiards." -- Ray Dessel

* Shorty's prominence at three cushion billiards may have helped build a little recognition for One Pocket within the three cushion community, since he was one of the first prominent three cushion players to make a name for himself in One Pocket.

All photos courtesy Ray Dessel

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