Camden County College is hosting a free exhibit on the contributions of players in the Philadelphia Negro Leagues and elsewhere and their ongoing legacy of shattering racial barriers in baseball.
“A League Apart” – which also marks Black History Month – is showcased at the college’s William G. Rohrer Center, where visitors can explore the stories of five remarkable “barrier breakers” – as some Negro Leaguers are known – who left an indelible mark on the sport, as well as more recent players.
Among those “barrier breakers” are trailblazers who challenged norms and paved the way for future generations in all of baseball, including Octavius Catto, Henry “Pop” Lloyd, Ed Bolden, Richard “Dick” Allen and Mo’ne Davis.
Catto, a 19th-century civil rights activist, educator, and baseball pioneer, not only broke through racial barriers but became a prominent figure in the Philadelphia community. Lloyd was known as one of the greatest shortstops in baseball history, with unparalleled skill on the field. Bolden, a visionary owner and manager, played a crucial role in the success of the Hilldale Club, a league team.
Allen was a prominent figure in baseball who had a 15-year-long career in Major League Baseball (MLB) in the 1960s and early ’70s. He had both versatility on the field – first baseman, third baseman and outfield – and made significant contributions to MLB teams, particularly with the Phillies. He was also one of the sports best sluggers.
The young Davis is a former softball player who attended Hampton University. The Philadelphia native was one of two girls to participate in the 2014 Little League World Series, where she pitched a shutout.
The exhibit also spotlights the contemporary impact of the Philadelphia Negro Leagues and their ongoing legacy. Historic moments are captured in photographs and visitors will learn how the players and owners alike challenged societal norms to carve out a space for themselves in the world of baseball. It also underscores the progress that’s been made in race relations and the work that remains.
In short, “A League Apart” encourages reflection on the league players’ profound impact and their lifelong struggles for equality and inclusion.
The Rohrer The A League Apart exhibition, situated at 1889 Marlton Pike East (Route 70 West & Springdale Road), is a poignant journey through the history of the Philadelphia Negro Leagues. In short, ncourages everyone to reflect on the profound impact of these Barrier Breakers and recognize the ongoing struggle for equality and inclusion.
The exhibit is free and open to the public during operating hours.The A League Apart exhibition encourages everyone to reflect on the profound impact of these Barrier Breakers and recognize the ongoing struggle for equality and inclusion. This Black History Month, join us in honoring the legacy of the Philadelphia Negro Leagues and the individuals who, through their courage and talent, became a league apart.
