Chasing Dreams: Baseball and Becoming American

The Historical Society of Palm Beach County is hosting a temporary exhibition, “Chasing Dreams: Baseball and Becoming American” at the Richard and Pat Johnson Palm Beach County History Museum in the historic 1916 Court House from December 14, 2015 to March 24, 2016. Visitors will learn how organized baseball played a significant role in the lives of immigrant and minority communities— Jews, Italians, Asians, Latinos, African Americans, and others—as they sought to understand, experience, and often challenge American culture and ideals. Museum visitors are invited to view images exploring baseball’s legends and myths, its heroes and flops, its struggles and triumphs. The exhibit celebrates those who became role models and “game changers”— well-known Jewish heroes such as Hank Greenberg and Sandy Koufax, and iconic pioneers like Jackie Robinson, Joe DiMaggio, and Roberto Clemente. Original films feature interviews with Major League Baseball team owners and executives, and everyday fans. An interactive, touchscreen database will provide an encyclopedic exploration of about 200 Jews in the major leagues, including historic baseball cards. The free Museum is located at 300 North Dixie Highway and is open Mondays, 10 am - 2 pm; Tuesdays - Fridays, 10 am - 5 pm; and Saturdays, 10 am - 4 pm. For further information, please call 561.832.4164 ext. 101 or visit www.historicalsocietypbc.org.