In 1898, William Chase Temple took over the Duquesne Country and Athletic Club, becoming the first individual team owner in professional football. In 1900, most of the Duquesne players were hired by the Homestead Library & Athletic Club, by offering them higher salaries.
Bemus Pierce was hired by Homestead in mid-October 1899. He played and got hurt in the November game versus Duquesne C. & A.C. He returned to Homestead L.A.C. in 1900 and 1901, helping lead the teams to an undefeated 21–0 record.