In honor of Black History, the Missouri State Fair Foundation presented local libraries with a free copy of Satchel Paige at the State Fair at the Sedalia Public Library.

According to a press release, Matt Boatright, Missouri State Fair Foundation Board member, began the presentation with his favorite quote from Satchel Paige, “If you didn’t know how old you were, how old would you be?”

Satchel Paige was one of the greatest baseball pitchers in history. He pitched for the Negro Leagues and the National Baseball League, becoming the first black pitcher in the American League. He was inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1971. Officials say most of us only know about his sports career, but few know about his personal life. “Satchel Paige was a family man who loved to take his kids on outings. He never missed a chance to teach them important life lessons.”

In Satchel Paige at The State Fair, author Linda Paige Shelby, the pitcher’s daughter, recounts one of the lessons he taught her and her siblings during a trip to the Missouri State Fair. Beautifully illustrated by the late pitcher’s granddaughter, China Smith, this story teaches children what to do when the odds are stacked against you.”

The mission of the Missouri State Fair Foundation is to cultivate the future through partnerships and educational initiatives. Area schools can request a free copy of the book by calling (660) 951-4053 or emailing msff@mostatefairfoundation.net.

Pictured in the photo:  FR – left to right – Carolyn Crooker, Sedalia CVB/MSFF; Linda Allcorn, Boonslick Regional Library; Jamie Sparks, Sedalia Public Library

BR  – Left to Right – Dorcas Brethower, MSFF; Liz VanLeer, Sacred Heart; Matt Boatright, MSFF/Wood & Huston Bank;  Malinda Rehmer, Applewood Christian School; Devon Gilmore, Sedalia School District