Memphis Red Sox 1946 Vintage Ballcap

• Made in the USA
• Genuine vintage red wool broadcloth
• Royal blue on white felt ‘M’ emblem
• Standard royal blue wool visor with green satin under visor
• Vintage hair cloth backed buckram crown
• Satin taping with cotton sweatband
• Adjustable size comes with a leather strap and antiqued brass closure

League: Negro American League

History: The Red Sox were owned by the Martin Brothers, local African American businessmen. They played in various leagues in their 38-year history but were members of the NAL in 1946. Memphis pitcher Dan Bankhead’s contract was purchased by Branch Rickey in 1947, and Bankhead debuted with the Brooklyn Dodgers in August of that year, becoming one of the first Black players in the majors. Bankhead homered in his first MLB at-bat. Future country music star Charlie Pride pitched for Memphis in 1953 and 1958. The Red Sox were one of the last Black ballclubs to stay in business, finally folding in 1960.