BIRMINGHAM, Ala — Birmingham is renowned for its rich African-American history and culture, and the Negro Southern League Museum contributes to the city’s historical legacy. While the museum highlights celebrated players such as Jackie Robinson—the first man to integrate Major League Baseball— it also effectively places a spotlight on iconic Negro Southern League teams, including the Birmingham Black Barons and Atlanta Black Crackers, through the recognition of players and a collection of artifacts.
“The history of the Negro Leagues is so rich and inspiring. All that Major League Baseball (MLB) is doing to recognize these players who were part of the Negro Leagues here in Birmingham is amazing, and we look forward to continuing to honor and celebrate their legacy,” MLB representative Morgan Cawley said.
Despite being one of the greatest collections of Negro League artifacts in the world, visitors appeared to be strongly affected by the eagerness displayed by the museum staff. The passion behind the cultivation of the museum motivates visitors to do a deep dive into the extensive history of the league. A founder’s ability to persuade others to value a crucial period in history is hindered if they themselves lack interest in it.
Museum co-founder Dr. Layton Revel designed the center in hopes of telling the story of the Negro Leagues through the eyes of Birmingham. Revel’s undying enthusiasm for baseball and the Negro Leagues is constantly displayed through his mission and his dedication to collecting artifacts. In August 2015, the city of Birmingham joined Revel in his pursuit of honoring the league and its players through the museum’s opening.
“Running the museum has been a marvelous experience, and many people come here. I’m 74 and was a rehab doctor for 38 years, but we’re going to spend the rest of our career doing Negro League Baseball history and building museums,” Revel said.
The majority of the presented items encompassed an array of information, ranging from fun facts to authentic jerseys and uniforms worn by Negro League players, in which they worked tirelessly in. The museum featured a collection of 1,783 autographed balls, known as the “wall of balls,” which were collected by Revel during his interviews with ball players. The center even housed a baseball simulation exhibiting holograms of Negro League players throwing a fastball to showcase their skill in real-time. Revel emphasized that these priceless gems will not be for sale under any circumstances, regardless of how high their value gets.
The Negro Leagues played a crucial role in the integration and triumph of Black players in the nation. They showcased their ability to compete at the highest caliber while successfully running an enterprise. The Birmingham Black Barons held the record for playing the highest number of games in the Negro League, surpassing all other teams.
Tribute to Willie Mays: former Birmingham Baron and San Francisco Giant (May 6, 1931- June 18, 2024)
The iconic Willie Mays passed away on Tuesday, just one day before his mural ribbon-cutting ceremony in downtown Birmingham. Mays serves as an inspiration to young Black men globally who are aspiring to achieve their dreams as professional baseball players. Mays notably led the Birmingham Barons to victory several times through his teenage years, including the Negro American League championship. Numerous will remember the center fielder as a Black boy who made his dreams a reality.