Ron Whittington to portray Hall of Famer William ‘Judy’ Johnson at the New Castle Court House Museum on July 20, 2019
On Saturday, July 20, 2019 at 1 p.m., the New Castle Court House Museum, located at 211 Delaware St. in New Castle, Del., will present “History of the Negro Baseball Leagues” in which living-history interpreter Ron Whittington of the Delaware Humanities Forum Speakers’ Bureau will portray Hall of Famer William “Judy” Johnson in a program that explores the history of the Negro baseball leagues prior to Jackie Robinson’s breaking of the color barrier in the major leagues. Admission is free and open to the public but reservations are requested by calling the museum at 302-323-4453.
According to his plaque in the National Baseball Hall of Fame, Johnson, who spent his childhood in Wilmington, Del. and later lived in Marshallton, Del., was “considered best third baseman of his day in Negro leagues. Outstanding as fielder and excellent clutch hitter who batted over .300 most of his career. Helped Hilldale team win three flags in row 1923 – 24 – 25. Also played for 1935 champion Pittsburgh Crawfords.”
Constructed in 1732, the New Castle Court House is one of the oldest active court buildings in the United States and was Delaware’s first state capitol. During its nearly 300 years of history, this National Historic Landmark has played pivotal roles in the political, social and commercial life of both New Castle and Delaware. The museum is administered by the Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs and is a partner site in the First State National Historical Park.
