JACKIE ROBINSON MUSEUM
Jackie Robinson Museum
I had the privilege of attending a preview of the new Jackie Robinson Museum in Lower Manhattan before its official opening. It is on the corner of Canal and Varick Streets..
Is the exhibit only for baseball lovers?
Absolutely not! What I loved about the museum is the way each facet of Robinson’s life was arranged in the gallery. It is a walk through the life of a great sportsman and, more importantly, the impact he had on the lives of so many others.
The main gallery
This section is a timeline of Robinson’s life, starting with his birth in 1919. A short documentary film helps the viewer understand the influences surrounding the choices he made as a soldier, athlete, activist, humanitarian, and family man.
There are personal accounts told by his wife, Rachel, regarding the racial barriers they endured in the Jim Crow South.
Sports gallery
This section highlights Robinson’s time in the Negro Leagues and his signing with the Brooklyn dodgers.
There is a very impressive and unique 3/16 scale model of Ebbets Field with interactive touchpoints for viewers to have fun with.
Family man
My favorite section was Robinson as a family man. There’s a heart-warming short film showing him making pancakes with one of his children.
2nd Floor
The JRM Education Center is for students and special groups to have on-site discussions and instruction.
It is a great resource for school groups to have. Check with the museum for more information about this valuable learning tool.