Columbia SC 63 honors the legacy of African American Baseball in Columbia, S.C.
May 31, 2016
Columbia marks a new chapter in the history of baseball in the city. Columbia SC 63, Our Story Matters is pleased to join the Columbia Fireflies and Mayor Steve Benjamin in honoring pioneering African American teams and players from the Columbia area.
With a diverse history of baseball ranging from local clubs to minor club teams, Columbia witnessed a number of talented African American teams that contributed to America’s pastime sport. These teams included the Columbia All Stars, Columbia Red Caps, Columbia Clippers, Columbia Whips, Hurricanes, the Negro Little League, and others. Many of these teams belonged to affiliated neighborhoods like Ward One, Arsenal Hill, Ridgewood, and Edgewood, whose residents served as many of the ball players. Star players also emerged by Benedict College, Allen University, Booker T Washington High School, and C. A. Johnson High School.
During a special tribute on June 2, 2016 at 6:30PM, Columbia SC 63 will join the Fireflies in honoring legends in Columbia baseball history.
The Columbia Fireflies is a Minor League Baseball team based in Columbia, South Carolina. The team plays in the Class A South Atlantic League and is an affiliate of the New York Mets of the National League in Major League Baseball. The home stadium is Spirit Communications Park. The team was formerly known as the Savannah Sand Gnats (1995—2015); they relocated from Savannah, Georgia, after the 2015 season. It is the only professional baseball team in Columbia, and the first since the Capital City Bombers moved to Greenville, South Carolina, after the 2004 season.
About Columbia SC 63
To raise awareness and understanding of a truly pivotal chapter in American history, Columbia, South Carolina has joined several other Southeastern cities to commemorate 50 years since the height of the Civil Rights Movement. Comprising a diverse coalition of community leaders, educators, students, residents and others, Columbia SC 63 will explore remarkable accounts of strength, determination and sacrifice that define how and why “Our Story Matters” – historically and for the future – to South Carolina and to our nation. For more information about activities and events associated with this initiative, please visit ColumbiaSC63.com.
