This Building was originally constructed as the Paseo YMCA which opened in 1914 to provide Kansas citians of color a place that would specifically allow them a public or private multi-purpose facility serving as a meeting place for community oriented social gatherings, a transi[en]t living quarters, a recreational center promoting activities e[n]hancing youth athleticism and religious ceremonies.
In 1920, the YMCA was host to a significant event in American history. The Negro National Baseball League was created in this building. Now this edifice is renamed the John Buck O'Neil Center. "Buck" as he was afectionally [sic - affectionately] called was a significant figure in Negro League Baseball. He played with numerous teams across the country and was a player and manager for the Kansas City Monarchs.
Buck lived his life as an open book to inspire and motivate.
In 1962 Buck O'Neil signed with the Chicago Cubs as the first person of color to coach in Major League Baseball. He co-founded as well as promoted the Negro
Baseball Museume [sic] in Kansas City. It's often said, History offers us a way to travel into the past but our future allows us to dream of things to come with all of its possibilities. Therefore, let's take this journey together so the dreams of our past can be the reality of our future.
[Mural artist]
Alexander Austin - Thank You "Buck" O'Neil
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