Photo by Yvonne Kemp
On Friday, August 3, 2018, The Milwaukee Brewers hosted African American Heritage Night, presented by Aurora Health Care® at Miller Park when they took on the Colorado Rockies. The team honored the rich history of the Negro Leagues and its profound impact on the game of baseball as we know it today. As part of a special pre-game ceremony, the Brewers recognized Warren Kirkendoll and Herbert Walker (inset photo, from left), who played in the Negro Leagues’ barnstorming years of the 1950s. Most of the surviving Negro League players are in their 80s and 90s, making it all the more important to remember their contributions to our national pastime. As part of the celebrations there was an autograph session, special exhibits showcasing the history of the Negro Leagues the Brewers wearing the Milwaukee Bears uniforms during the game, and a special question and answer session and ceremony at Holy Redeemer Institutional Church Of God In Christ.
Pictured at the pre-game ceremony are other surviving members of the Negro League that took part in the weekend festivities; they are (from left) Al Holt; Warren Kirkendoll; Reggie Howard; Herb Walker; Henry Elmore; Don “Rook” Porter; James Cobbin; and Dennis Biddle.
