Comedian Roy Wood, Jr. talks about Rickwood Field, the oldest baseball stadium in the US, hosting Negro League baseball, Klan rallies, and the first integrated sports team in Alabama. Exploring the historical significance of Rickwood, the challenges of maintaining its legacy, and its connection to black baseball history and women's suffrage. Delving into the impact of segregation in Birmingham's baseball scene, iconic baseball personalities, and the resilience of black players in creating a separate league. Highlighting the fascinating journey of radio announcer Theophilus 'Bull' Conner and discussing racism in broadcasting and baseball in Birmingham during the 1930s. Acknowledging the legacy of a baseball icon and teasing the next installment in the series.
Rickwood Field hosted diverse events, from Negro League games to Klan rallies, reflecting complex historical narratives.
Wood emphasizes the transformative power of sports in preserving hope and resilience in communities.
The podcast intertwines iconic baseball moments with Birmingham's socio-political landscape, showcasing the timeless essence of the sport.
Deep dives
Transition from JFK to NYC Sparks Discovery
Daddio, a film starring Dakota Johnson and Sean Penn, follows the journey of a young woman hailing a cab in JFK and traveling through NYC, now showing in theaters. Comedian and television writer Roy Wood Jr., host of the Road to Rickwood series, reflects on his baseball experiences and the allure of the sport.
Baseball's Role in American History
Wood discusses his love for baseball, particularly his high school games at Rickwood Field, America's oldest ballpark. Beyond the game, Rickwood symbolizes American history, spotlighting Birmingham's divisive nature in the 60s, reflecting on the impact of sports in narrating historical events.
Lessons from Rickwood Field
Wood highlights the transformative potential of sports in preserving human spirit and hope. He underscores the resilient nature of individuals and communities reflected through the array of events and rallies hosted at Rickwood Field, intertwining sports with social narratives.
Importance of Acknowledging Historical Narratives
Acknowledging Rickwood Field's rich history, Wood sheds light on how the park stood witness to significant events, from suffrage rallies to Klan gatherings. The podcast delves into the nuances of history, intertwining tales of resilience, segregation, and progress within its stories.
Storytelling through Baseball Legends
Reflecting on the legendary Babe Ruth's games at Rickwood and the rise of stars like Satchel Paige, Wood delves into the allure of baseball icons gracing the field. The focus on athletic prowess and historical milestones intertwines with Birmingham's socio-political landscape, revealing the timeless essence of baseball.
Birmingham, Alabama was one of the fiercest battlegrounds of the Civil Rights Movement. And in order to understand the struggle, you don't have to look any further than Rickwood Field, the oldest baseball stadium in the country. Over more than a century it's hosted Negro League baseball, a women's suffrage event, a Klan rally — and eventually, the first integrated sports team in Alabama. Today on the show, we're joined by host Roy Wood, Jr., to bring you the first episode of Road to Rickwood, an original series from WWNO, WRKF, and NPR telling the story of America's oldest ballpark.