HPL

Hays Public Library will host “The Kansas City Monarchs in Your Hometown,” a presentation and discussion by Phil S. Dixon on Aug. 5 at 1:30pm in the Schmidt Gallery of the Hays Public Library. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program.

Contact Marissa Lamer, Kansas Room Librarian, at 785-625-9014 for more information. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.

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 will explore the early barnstorming days of the Monarchs and highlight great players such as Wilbur “Bullet” Rogan, Satchel Paige, and Jackie Robinson.

Phil S. Dixon, co-founder of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, is the author of nine books about baseball, including biographies about Wilber “Bullet” Rogan and John “Buck” O’Neil. In the course of his research, he has interviewed over 500 former Negro League players and family members. Dixon will share stories of particular interest to Hays and surrounding areas. The Kansas City Monarchs made many trips to the area.

“The Kansas City Monarchs in Your Hometown” is part of Humanities Kansas’s Movement of Ideas Speakers Bureau, featuring presentations and workshops designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.

Page 2 – Presentation Explores Legacy of African American Baseball Team

For more information about “The Kansas City Monarchs in Your Hometown,” contact the the Hays Public Library at 785-625-9014 or visit www.hayslibrary.org.

About Humanities Kansas
Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit spearheading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.