Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford’s office announced yestserday its plan for an August 13 groundbreaking cermemony, as a public kick-off for the proposed Rickwood Field museum.
The Mayor’s Office press release is below:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
April Odom
Mayor’s Office of Public Information
254-2823
GROUNDBREAKING FOR BIRMINGHAM BASEBALL HALL OF FAME MUSEUM
Celebrating both the Negro Baseball League and the Southern Baseball League
Birmingham Mayor Larry Langford, representatives from the Negro Baseball League and Rickwood Field will be on hand this Thursday, August 13, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. for the groundbreaking of the city’s only Baseball Hall of Fame Museum.
The estimated $7.5 million dollar facility which includes the renovation of the existing Rickwood Field — the oldest baseball field in the country – will capture the history of both the Negro Baseball League and the Southern Baseball League. Both leagues called Rickwood Field home throughout their shared histories.
“This museum has been talked about and talked about and talked about,” Mayor Langford said. “Now, reality is here and it’s time we come together to preserve the history of the old Negro league players while they still live.”
The museum will feature, among other things, the history of the leagues, highlights of past players and state-of-the-art conference amenities, Mayor Langford said.
“It’s amazing that this project has generated interest by people who don’t even live in the city of Birmingham. We have gotten calls of support and gratitude for the concept plus calls from well wishers who just love the game. Players in the Negro league paved the way for the Henry (Hank) Aarons, Willie Mays and Jackie Robinsons of the world. It would be a tragedy to not preserve that part of Birmingham’s unique and rich history in sports,” Mayor Langford said.
Past players will be on hand to autograph commemorative baseballs, plus traditional baseball snacks will be served. Come enjoy the history of Rickwood Field and help us celebrate this great project.
#####
April Odom
Director of Communications
Mayor’s Office of Public Information
City Hall
710 North 20th Street
Birmingham, Alabama 35203
(205) 254-2368
visit: http://www.birminghamal.gov
