Early Life and Career
McGowan was born and grew up in Wilmington, Delaware. In 1913, he began umpiring in the Tri-State League at the age of 17. He moved on to the Virginia League in 1915, the International League and New York State League in 1916, and the Blue Ridge League in 1917. McGowan served in the United States Armed Forces during World War I in 1918, and then returned to the International League for 1919. Following the 1922 season, McGowan left the International League and joined the umpiring staff of the Southern Association, staying there until 1924.
Read more about this topic: Bill McGowan
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