Black Jockeys: The History of Americas First Sports Stars, A Journey From Chains to Reins

Author  Bedelia Hilburn

Bedelia shares what will be recognized as a proud and fundamental piece of Black American history through Chester, a young stableboy enslaved to a plantation in Kentucky. Chester introduces us to the life of America's first sports stars, our black jockeys, and a society they endured on their journey from physical chains to reigning over what was recognized as "America's Pastime."

Most of the inspirational, genuine, and proud history of the Black Jockey has been whispered about and shared through the oral tradition of storytelling but virtually hidden. Until 1921, The industry was dominated by the most prominent and sought- after Black American Jockeys.

However, between 1921 and 1999, not a single Black Jockey was given access to compete. Bedelia unfolds the events that led to the greatness of our earliest black athletes, being the foundation for "Americas' Pastime," one the most lucrative industries during that period, and invites us to examine how the men recognized as superstars of their era became represented by a lacquered, black-faced statue.

Paperback  80 pages
Size  6 x  9 inches