Abilene, Kan. – The next Evenings at Ease program is Tuesday, August 14 at 7 p.m. in the Eisenhower Presidential Library Visitors Center Auditorium, 200 SE 4th, Abilene.
Author Phil Dixon will present The Kansas City Monarchs in Our Hometown. Formed in 1920, the Kansas City Monarchs revolutionized baseball: not only were they charter members of the Negro National League and the first professional team to use outdoor lighting, the Monarchs also sent more players to the major leagues than any other Negro League franchise. This presentation explores the exciting early barnstorming days of the Monarchs, highlights great players such as Wilbur “Bullet” Rogan, Satchel Paige, and Jackie Robinson who wore the uniform and connects the spirit of the Monarchs to the many Kansas communities in which they played.
For the past 30 years, Dixon has researched the African-American baseball experience and documented the careers of Negro Baseball’s greatest players. Formerly in the Public Relations Department of the Kansas City Royals, he now serves on the Board of Governors for the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City.
Dixon will be available to sign books following the program. A limited number of books will be available for purchase in the Presidential Gift Shop. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.
About the Eisenhower Presidential Library
The Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home, a nonpartisan federal institution, is part of the Presidential Libraries network operated by the National Archives and Records Administration. Presidential Libraries promote understanding of the presidency and the American experience. We preserve and provide access to historical materials, support research, and create interactive programs and exhibits that educate and inspire. Public programs and exhibits at the Eisenhower Presidential Library are made possible through the generous support of the Eisenhower Foundation. To learn more, please visit eisenhowerfoundation.net.