It took place August 31, 1896 in New York. I don't know about written accounts. Perhaps others may have something on it. Maybe there's something in New York Times archive. 1896 Aug 31 Tom Sharkey New York, NY EX 3 -One minute rounds were boxed Here's a link on Sulivan's record: http://2nicepeople.com/john-l-sullivan/fights.htm
Hey, I got curious and did a search on this and came up with the following article from the September 1, 1896 issue of the Hartford Courant. I couldn't get it in "cut and paste" format, only .pdf, but it's short article so I think I can type it in here. PM me with your email if you want a copy of the .pdf: This content is protected This is very interesting, on two counts. First, as my first post documented, the records state that Sullivan boxed a 3 round exhibition; and second, that the rounds were one minute long. This report appears to contradict both of these points.
Adam Pollack wrote about it shortly in his book about Fitzsimmons (page 262 for hardcover edition, not sure about softcover if it's the same), quoting the Police Gazette.
I have it. I own a detailed on Tom Sharkey titled, " Fighters I meet ". It’s a fascinating read written by the sailor himself. Descriptions of Sharkey early career, and his fights with Billy Smith, Corbett, Choynski, and others are discussed. The Sullivan sparring session is mentioned with some detail as well. Sullivan was fond of the Sharkey, and felt he had a good chance to become heavyweight champion of the world. I suppose I could scan it in and post it here late. Regarding Sullivan, I wonder if the readers are aware that he once challenged James Jeffires for a title fight shortly after Jeffries retired. Sullivan must have needed some money. Thankfully, Jeffries refused
