For those eager to dive into a rarely recounted chapter of sports history, the Dakota County Historical Society is hosting an illuminating event that pulls back the curtain on the struggles and triumphs of African American baseball players in Minnesota. The presentation, titled "Untold Stories of Black Baseball in Minnesota," will be held at the Sibley Historic Site on Friday, June 28 at 6 p.m., as detailed on the historical society's website. Historian Frank White leads this narrative journey through a period spanning from the 1870s to the 1960s, revealing an era when the love of baseball transcended the barriers erected by segregation.
The talk isn't just about recalling past glories and forgotten stories—it's a personal mission for White, whose father was noted to be one of the premier catchers of his time in the Twin Cities. This familial link to baseball history was something White discovered only later in his life. These tales of athletic determination were too often obscured by the larger narrative deeply rooted in denial and division. Yet, the stories, White will tell, underline a unifying passion for the sport that managed to slowly stitch a community together. Admission for the program is $20 per person, and $15 for members of both DCHS and the Minnesota Historical Society. Seats can be reserved by calling the Sibley Site at 651-452-1596 or by visiting the Dakota County Historical Society's official website.
For those unable to make the event or looking to delve even further into the subject, Frank White has also authored a book titled "They Played for the Love of the Game." This work extends the dialogue beyond the spoken word and has been adapted into an exhibit. Created in collaboration with the Ramsey County Historical Society, the exhibit proudly displays artifacts from White's personal collection. Attendees can immerse themselves in this poignant collection through the end of summer—no admission fee is necessary, though registration for the exhibit is also required.
The presentation and exhibit are not just academic exercises; they are endeavors aimed to keep alive the legacy of players who, despite being faced with societal exclusion, were determined to fully forge ahead in their pursuit of athletic excellence. The Sibley Historic Site is located at 1357 Sibley Memorial Highway, Mendota, and stands ready to welcome attendees to this enriching experience. Further details, as well as a portal for reserving a spot, are accessible through the Dakota County Historical Society's website.
