National Museum of African American History and Culture
Umpire mask worn by Emmett Ashford
Spalding, American, founded 1876 · ca. 1965
Emmett Ashford was the first African American umpire in Major League Baseball (MLB). Ashford umped from 1966-1970 and was known for his animated calls and dress. After retiring as an umpire in 1970, Ashford continued his relationship with MLB and was hired by Commissioner Bowie Kuhn as a public relations advisor in 1971.
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