Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame XIII: Red Hodges

In the Poker Hall of Fame, there are names and legends that emerged in smoke-filled rooms, far from the bright lights. Red Hodges, an American poker player, is one of these enigmatic figures. Despite knowing little about his life, he became the sole inductee into the Hall of Fame in 1985.

Mysterious Origins

Red Hodges was an American poker player born in Texas. Even his birth year is shrouded in mystery, with sources citing either 1873 or 1887. Despite this significant time gap, what is certain is that he was active during an era when poker was evolving from saloon games to a professional discipline. Little is known about his early years or precise career, except that he was a nomad in search of high-stakes cash games across the United States. He passed away in 1950, missing the birth of the WSOP, and during his lifetime, Las Vegas was only beginning its journey to becoming the gambling capital of the world.

Master of Seven Card Stud

Hodges built his reputation primarily through his dominance in Seven Card Stud and Deuce to Seven (Kansas City Lowball) — games that tested players' patience, memory, and psychological fortitude. Although he left behind no recorded results or winnings, he was regarded as one of the greatest players of all time in these variants, excelling regardless of the competition. Apart from his skills at the table, he was also respected for his personal qualities. The legendary Johnny Moss once admitted that Hodges was known as "Society Red," a nickname earned for being both a gentleman and a gambler.

Induction into the Hall of Fame

In 1985, Red Hodges was inducted into the Poker Hall of Fame as the sole member of that year. He perfectly met the criteria — with many years of playing against top competitors, high stakes, resilience over time, and the respect of his peers.

Red Hodges is proof that poker fame doesn't need to be loud. His little-known story shows that in a game full of bluffs, quiet can be the most powerful weapon.

More from the Legends of PHoF

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame XII: Murph Harrold

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame XI: Joe Bernstein

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame X: Tom Abdo

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame IX: Bill Boyd

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame VIII: T. "Blondie" Forbes

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame VII: James Butler "Wild Bill" Hickok

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame VI: Sid Wyman

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame V: Red Winn

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame IV: Edmond Hoyle

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame III: Felton "Corky" McCorquodale

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame II: Nick "The Greek" Dandolos

Legends of the Poker Hall of Fame I: Johnny Moss

Sources: Wikipedia, WSOP, Poker Omnibus