First Black Red

The Story of Chuck Harmon, the First African American to Play for the Cincinnati Reds

Chuck Harmons life story symbolizes and transcends our countrys struggle for civil rights and equality. From his humble beginnings as one of the 12 children of Sherman and Rosa Harmon in Southern Indiana, to the pressure of death threats as a Cincinnati player, this gentlemen big leaguer is an example of those African American pioneers who helped make a mockery of hate and injustice with integrity, decency, and iron will.

From the stories of an early meeting with Babe Ruth to rooting for his beloved Cincinnati Reds today, Chuck Harmons compelling life story symbolizes all that is good about Americas pastime and its oldest professional franchise. His great-great grandfather fought and died for freedom in the Civil War.Less than 100 years later, Chuck Harmon was still fighting for justice - not with a gun and bayonet, but with a golden glove and hot bat. Chuck Harmon is proud to be called, Cincinnatis First Black Red. This book is an important look at the parallel benchmarks in baseball and civil rights, and Chuck Harmon is one of the quiet patriots who helped make America truly a country where all men and women should expect to be treated equally.