History of the Negro Leagues

Can you name the stadium where the first racially integrated modern team played baseball in the U.S.? That would be , right here in Nashua. On Sunday, May 6, find out more about this historic venue and those who played there when collector Joe Caliro visits the to speak about “The History of the Negro Baseball Leagues.”

Before the talk, more than 400 items of memorabilia from the leagues will be on display. Caliro has collected 48 autographed baseballs from the 1920s, 1930s, and 1940s, including nine from Hall of Famers and three from the only women ever to play professional ball. He will show game posters, Negro League artwork, photos, and oddities such as poker chips, matchbook covers — even a lock for a beer bottle.

Caliro will also display three sets of baseball cards from the leagues. One is called the Ted Williams set, in which each card was personally approved by The Splendid Splinter himself. The second set is by Mark Chiarello, an illustrator for Marvel Comics. These are reproductions of oil paintings he did to honor the league. The third set depicts postcards of Negro League players in the Hall of Fame.

The exhibit will run from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m., with the talk following from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

For more information call Carol at (603) 589-4610.

The library is located at 2 Court Street. For directions and information on parking go to www.nashualibrary.org/directions.htm.