Sports & Leisure

Tennis Racket

The nation's passion for sports is obvious every day—at NASCAR races, kiddie soccer matches, and countless other contests. From a handball used by Abraham Lincoln to Chris Evert's tennis racket to a baseball signed by Jackie Robinson, the roughly 6.000 objects in the Museum's sports collections bear witness to the vital place of sports in the nation's history. Paper sports objects in the collections, such as souvenir programs and baseball cards, number in the hundreds of thousands.

Leisure collections encompass a different range of objects, including camping vehicles and gear, video games, playing cards, sportswear, exercise equipment, and Currier and Ives prints of fishing, hunting, and horseracing. Some 4,000 toys dating from the colonial period to the present are a special strength of the collections.

Culture: African Americans

HoodWood Skates Hellcat skateboard sticker

Skateboard sticker is white with a red and black hellcat design in the center. The hellcat was created by Raith Grimes of HoodWood Skates. Marty Grimes was the first Black professional skateboarder along with his brother Clyde.
Description (Brief)
Skateboard sticker is white with a red and black hellcat design in the center. The hellcat was created by Raith Grimes of HoodWood Skates. Marty Grimes was the first Black professional skateboarder along with his brother Clyde. In 1976, after the Del Mar Nationals, Jay Adams got Marty onto the EZ Ryder team that Jay’s stepfather had started after Jay left the Zephyr team. EZ Ryder then turned into Z Flex and Grimes was the first African American to have a pro model deck.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2022.0064.04.3
accession number
2022.0065
catalog number
2022.0064.04.3

Miller Brothers Atco Dragway, Class Winner trophy, 1970

Miller Brothers Atco Dragway, Class Winner trophy, 1970. The Miller Bros. 1955 Chevrolet station wagon won this race in the V-stock class in 1970. Miller Bros. racing was an all African American racing team comprised of Leonard W. Miller, his brother Dexter G.
Description (Brief)
Miller Brothers Atco Dragway, Class Winner trophy, 1970. The Miller Bros. 1955 Chevrolet station wagon won this race in the V-stock class in 1970. Miller Bros. racing was an all African American racing team comprised of Leonard W. Miller, his brother Dexter G. Miller and driver Kenny Wright who later became an integral part of Miller's Black American Racers, Inc in 1973.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1970
user
Miller, Leonard W.
ID Number
2016.0359.02
accession number
2016.0359
catalog number
2016.0359.02

Third Annual Black Athletes Hall of Fame trophy awarded to Leonard W. Miller upon his induction, 1976

Third Annual Black Athletes Hall of Fame trophy awarded to Leonard W. Miller upon his induction, 1976. The Black Athlete's Hall of Fame ceremony was conducted at the New York Hilton in Manhattan. Miller was inducted along with Black American Racers driver, Benny Scott.
Description (Brief)
Third Annual Black Athletes Hall of Fame trophy awarded to Leonard W. Miller upon his induction, 1976. The Black Athlete's Hall of Fame ceremony was conducted at the New York Hilton in Manhattan. Miller was inducted along with Black American Racers driver, Benny Scott. Both Miller and Scott were inducted for their courageous ascent in auto racing reaching the top 60 teams in the world in 1975. Other inductees included sportscaster, Howard Cosell; boxing promoter, Don King; and heavyweight boxer, Joe Frazier.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1976
user
Miller, Leonard W.
ID Number
2016.0359.13
accession number
2016.0359
catalog number
2016.0359.13

Miller Racing Group, Inc. Late Model Stock Car event winner trophy at Old Dominion Speedway, 2006

Miller Racing Group, Inc. Late Model Stock Car event winner trophy at Old Dominion Speedway, 2006. This was the last win for The Miller Racing Group with Franklin Butler III as their driver before MRG closed its doors due to lack of corporate sponsorship.
Description (Brief)
Miller Racing Group, Inc. Late Model Stock Car event winner trophy at Old Dominion Speedway, 2006. This was the last win for The Miller Racing Group with Franklin Butler III as their driver before MRG closed its doors due to lack of corporate sponsorship. In 2012, Old Dominion Speedway which was built in 1952, ceased operations due to noise complaints from increasing residential development.
Miller Racing Group was an African American racing team owned by father and son Leonard W. and Leonard T. Miller. MRG was sponsored by Dr. Pepper from 2001-2003 and delivered Dr. Pepper its first corporate win in the brand's history. The team competed in the NASCAR Late Model Stock Weekly Racing Series throughout the southeast. After the 2003 season, the Millers did not have a corporate sponsor for MRG and sustained the team with their personal funds and resources.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2005
user
Miller, Leonard W.
ID Number
2016.0359.05
accession number
2016.0359
catalog number
2016.0359.05

Black American Racers team patch, 1974

Black American Racers team patch, 1974. This patch was worn by team personnel and the team driver.
Description (Brief)
Black American Racers team patch, 1974. This patch was worn by team personnel and the team driver. The red, black and green are Black Nationalist colors that were integrated into the patch to exhibit the pride in the Miller's African American heritage that was popular in the 1970s..
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England.
In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1974
ID Number
2016.3189.04
nonaccession number
2016.3189
catalog number
2016.3189.04

Black American Racers poster featuring BAR's Formula Super Vee driver, Benny Scott

Black American Racers poster featuring BAR's Formula Super Vee driver, Benny Scott.
Description (Brief)
Black American Racers poster featuring BAR's Formula Super Vee driver, Benny Scott. Four hundred of these posters, autographed by Benny Scott, were distributed at the NAACP National Convention in 1974.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1974
ID Number
2016.3189.10
nonaccession number
2016.3189
catalog number
2016.3189.10

Black American Racers team decal for the 1977-1978 racing season

Black American Racers team decal for the 1977-1978 racing season. This new design used in the late 1970s eliminated the original design that incorporated the red, yellow and black of the Black Nationalist theme of the early 70s.
Description (Brief)
Black American Racers team decal for the 1977-1978 racing season. This new design used in the late 1970s eliminated the original design that incorporated the red, yellow and black of the Black Nationalist theme of the early 70s. Tommy Thompson was the driver for BAR featuring this design.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1977
ID Number
2016.3189.08.1
nonaccession number
2016.3189
catalog number
2016.3189.08.1

HoodWood Skates Marty Grimes Hall of Fame Panther skateboard sticker

Skateboard sticker featuring Marty Grimes Hall of Fame Panther is white with a gray panther is lying across a pink, purple and blue circle with "Marty [/] Grimes [/] SHOF" printed in black within the circle.
Description (Brief)
Skateboard sticker featuring Marty Grimes Hall of Fame Panther is white with a gray panther is lying across a pink, purple and blue circle with "Marty [/] Grimes [/] SHOF" printed in black within the circle. This was designed to celebrate Marty Grimes induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame in 2020. The Panther skate graphic design associated with Grimes was originally designed by Angela Grimes for his Z-Flex coming out in the mid-70s but was re-designed by Raith Grimes for Marty’s family-owned skateboard company Hood Wood Skates. Marty Grimes was the first Black professional skateboarder along with his brother Clyde. In 1976, after the Del Mar Nationals, Jay Adams got Marty onto the EZ Ryder team that Jay’s stepfather had started after Jay left the Zephyr team. EZ Ryder then turned into Z Flex and Grimes was the first African American to have a pro model deck.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2022.0064.04.6
accession number
2022.0064
catalog number
2022.0064.04.6

Black American Racers Association membership t-shirt

Black American Racers Association membership t-shirt was issued to thousands of BARA members across America. The logo was designed as an embroidered patch for members too.
Description (Brief)
Black American Racers Association membership t-shirt was issued to thousands of BARA members across America. The logo was designed as an embroidered patch for members too. BARA was the support group and a national networking association for the Black American Racers Formula Super Vee and Formula 5000 endeavors on the race track and other African American auto racing campaigns in various classes throughout America.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
user
Miller, Leonard W.
ID Number
2016.0359.19
accession number
2016.0359
catalog number
2016.0359.19

Black American Racers Association membership card

Black American Racers Association membership card issued to members of BARA.In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast.
Description (Brief)
Black American Racers Association membership card issued to members of BARA.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2016.3189.15
nonaccession number
2016.3189
catalog number
2016.3189.15

Marty Grimes Hall of Fame Panther Skatedeck

Marty Grimes Hall of Fame Panther skatedeck is black with a drawing of a black panther lying across a pink, purple and blue circle with "Marty [/] Grimes [/] SHOF" printed in black within the circle.
Description (Brief)
Marty Grimes Hall of Fame Panther skatedeck is black with a drawing of a black panther lying across a pink, purple and blue circle with "Marty [/] Grimes [/] SHOF" printed in black within the circle. This was designed to celebrate Marty Grimes induction into the Skateboarding Hall of Fame in 2020. The Panther skate graphic design associated with Grimes was originally designed by Angela Grimes for his Z-Flex coming out in the mid-70s but was re-designed by Raith Grimes for Marty’s family-owned skateboard company Hood Wood Skates. Marty Grimes was the first Black professional skateboarder along with his brother Clyde. In 1976, after the Del Mar Nationals, Jay Adams got Marty onto the EZ Ryder team that Jay’s stepfather had started after Jay left the Zephyr team. EZ Ryder then turned into Z Flex. Grimes was also the first African American to have a pro model deck.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2020
ID Number
2022.0064.01
accession number
2022.0064
catalog number
2022.0064.01

Resolution document from the State of New Jersey recognizing Leonard W. Miller

Resolution document from the State of New Jersey recognizing Leonard W.
Description (Brief)
Resolution document from the State of New Jersey recognizing Leonard W. Miller as an esteemed member of the community, as an African American pioneer in many areas of life that include his auto racing accomplishments under Miller Racing Group, Inc and his autobiography, "Silent Thunder." The award ceremony was held on September 15, 2007 in Trenton, NJ.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2016.3189.18
nonaccession number
2016.3189
catalog number
2016.3189.18

Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season

Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. The nomex hood is white with a face opening with reinforced stitching and is to be worn under the driver's helmet. "Atlas Flame Beaters 500" tag stitched at the bottom of the hood.
Description (Brief)
Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. The nomex hood is white with a face opening with reinforced stitching and is to be worn under the driver's helmet. "Atlas Flame Beaters 500" tag stitched at the bottom of the hood. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc. in 1972 and a team mate to Vanguard's African American driver, Benny Scott. Mahler, a white driver, competed in the 1972 Indianapolis 500 as the driver for Vanguard Inc. making Vanguard the first African American owned team to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. Vanguard Racing Inc. would reorganize as Black American Racers Inc., an African American auto racing team founded in 1973 by Leonard W. Miller, Wendell Scott, Ron Hines and Malcolm Durham, who were members of the Black American Racers Association (BARA). The goal of BARA was to organize African-American drivers, mechanics, engineers, crew members and owners in stock car, open wheel and drag racing, and pave the way for greater success for African Americans in motor sports.
Location
Currently not on view
user
Mahler, John
ID Number
2016.0353.04.3
accession number
2016.0353
catalog number
2016.0353.04.3

Baseball bat used by Joe Morgan, Cincinnati Reds, 1975 All-Star Game

Infielder Joe Morgan (1943-2020) played Major League Baseball for the Houston Colt .45s/ Astros (1963-1971,1980,) Cincinnati Reds (1972-1979,) San Francisco Gians (1981-1982,) Philadelphia Phillies (1983,) and Oakland Athletics (1984.)A two-time National League Most Valuable Play
Description
Infielder Joe Morgan (1943-2020) played Major League Baseball for the Houston Colt .45s/ Astros (1963-1971,1980,) Cincinnati Reds (1972-1979,) San Francisco Gians (1981-1982,) Philadelphia Phillies (1983,) and Oakland Athletics (1984.)
A two-time National League Most Valuable Player (1975,1976), Morgan was a leading member of Cincinnati's Big Red Machine that won two World Series (1975,1976) along with four National League Pennants and six Division victories.
Excelling on both sides of the field, Morgan is considered on of the game's all-time greatest second basemen. A five-time gold glove honoree, the 5"7 athlete was a lifetime .271 hitter, with 2,517 hits, 268 home runs, 1,133 runs batted and 689 stolen bases.
A ten-time All-Star selection, Morgan used this bat during 1975's version of the contest, held at Milwaukee's County Stadium. The second baseman was one of four Reds to be named a National League starter that year.
After his retirement, Morgan had a successful career as a baseball broadcaster. He was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1990.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1975
Associated Name
Morgan, Joe
Cincinnati Reds
maker
Louisville Slugger
ID Number
2017.0334.16
catalog number
2017.0334.16
accession number
2017.0334

Watkins Glen auto racing circuit official parking pass issued to Leonard W. Miller

Watkins Glen auto racing circuit official parking pass issued to Leonard W. Miller for July 10-13, 1975. This was issued to Miller as owner and president of the Black American Racers, Inc.
Description (Brief)
Watkins Glen auto racing circuit official parking pass issued to Leonard W. Miller for July 10-13, 1975. This was issued to Miller as owner and president of the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) team for Formula Super Vee racing competition in the Volkswagen Robert Bosch Gold Cup Series. Benny Scott was the African American BAR driver from 1973 to 1975.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2016.3189.28
nonaccession number
2016.3189
catalog number
2016.3189.28

Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season

Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. The nomex hood is white with a face opening with reinforced stitching and is to be worn under the driver's helmet. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc.
Description (Brief)
Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. The nomex hood is white with a face opening with reinforced stitching and is to be worn under the driver's helmet. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc. in 1972 and a team mate to Vanguard's African American driver, Benny Scott. Mahler, a white driver, competed in the 1972 Indianapolis 500 as the driver for Vanguard Inc. making Vanguard the first African American owned team to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. Vanguard Racing Inc. would reorganize as Black American Racers Inc., an African American auto racing team founded in 1973 by Leonard W. Miller, Wendell Scott, Ron Hines and Malcolm Durham, who were members of the Black American Racers Association (BARA). The goal of BARA was to organize African-American drivers, mechanics, engineers, crew members and owners in stock car, open wheel and drag racing, and pave the way for greater success for African Americans in motor sports.
Location
Currently not on view
user
Mahler, John
ID Number
2016.0353.04.1
accession number
2016.0353
catalog number
2016.0353.04.1

Black American Racers Association Certificate of Charter Membership to Dexter Miller

Black American Racers Association Certificate of Charter Membership to Dexter Miller. BARA was a support group for racing development in the black auto racing community.
Description (Brief)
Black American Racers Association Certificate of Charter Membership to Dexter Miller. BARA was a support group for racing development in the black auto racing community. The certificate has the original signatures of secretary, Ronald Hines, president, Malcolm Durham and chairman, Leonard W. Miller. Miller was the owner and president of Black American Racers Inc. that fielded African American driver Benny Scott in Formula Super Vee auto racing from 1973-1975 and Formula 5000 auto racing competition in 1975, including the inaugural Long Beach Grand Prix. Hines was also the Formula Super Vee team engineer for BAR throughout the 1970s.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
1973
ID Number
2016.3189.13
nonaccession number
2016.3189
catalog number
2016.3189.13

Leonard W. Miller's Hall of Fame ring case

Leonard W. Miller's Hall of Fame ring case with ring inside. Miller was inducted into the Association for Diversity in Motorsports Hall of Fame on October 11, 2005 in Charlotte, NC.
Description (Brief)
Leonard W. Miller's Hall of Fame ring case with ring inside. Miller was inducted into the Association for Diversity in Motorsports Hall of Fame on October 11, 2005 in Charlotte, NC. He was recognized and honored for fielding African American stock car drivers in the NASCAR Late Model Stock class throughout the southeast from 1994-2003.
This organization was one of many minority groups advocating African American teams and drivers competing in NASCAR as a result of insufficient corporate sponsorship in the 1990s and 2000s. Ironically, many of these advocate organizations are now defunct due to lack of corporate sponsorship and interest.
Miller Racing Group was an African American racing team owned by father and son Leonard W. and Leonard T. Miller. MRG was sponsored by Dr. Pepper from 2001-2003 and delivered Dr. Pepper its first corporate win in the brand's history. The team competed in the NASCAR Late Model Stock Weekly Racing Series throughout the southeast. After the 2003 season, the Millers did not have a corporate sponsor for MRG and sustained the team with their personal funds and resources.
date made
2005
user
Miller, Leonard W.
ID Number
2016.0359.16.1
accession number
2016.0359
catalog number
2016.0359.16.1

Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season

Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. The nomex hood with flared neck is white with a face opening with reinforced stitching and is to be worn under the driver's helmet. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc.
Description (Brief)
Nomex hood worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. The nomex hood with flared neck is white with a face opening with reinforced stitching and is to be worn under the driver's helmet. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc. in 1972 and a team mate to Vanguard's African American driver, Benny Scott. Mahler, a white driver, competed in the 1972 Indianapolis 500 as the driver for Vanguard Inc. making Vanguard the first African American owned team to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. Vanguard Racing Inc. would reorganize as Black American Racers Inc., an African American auto racing team founded in 1973 by Leonard W. Miller, Wendell Scott, Ron Hines and Malcolm Durham, who were members of the Black American Racers Association (BARA). The goal of BARA was to organize African-American drivers, mechanics, engineers, crew members and owners in stock car, open wheel and drag racing, and pave the way for greater success for African Americans in motor sports.
Location
Currently not on view
user
Mahler, John
ID Number
2016.0353.04.2
accession number
2016.0353
catalog number
2016.0353.04.2

Pants worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season

Pants worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. The pants are white long pants undergarment made of Nomex, a fire retardant material. This pants are to be worn under the driver's suit. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc.
Description (Brief)
Pants worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. The pants are white long pants undergarment made of Nomex, a fire retardant material. This pants are to be worn under the driver's suit. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc. in 1972 and a team mate to Vanguard's African American driver, Benny Scott. Mahler, a white driver, competed in the 1972 Indianapolis 500 as the driver for Vanguard Inc. making Vanguard the first African American owned team to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. Vanguard Racing Inc. would reorganize as Black American Racers Inc., an African American auto racing team founded in 1973 by Leonard W. Miller, Wendell Scott, Ron Hines and Malcolm Durham, who were members of the Black American Racers Association (BARA). The goal of BARA was to organize African-American drivers, mechanics, engineers, crew members and owners in stock car, open wheel and drag racing, and pave the way for greater success for African Americans in motor sports.
Location
Currently not on view
user
Mahler, John
ID Number
2016.0353.03.2
accession number
2016.0353
catalog number
2016.0353.03.2

Auto racing gloves worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season

Auto racing gloves worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc. in 1972 and a team mate to Vanguard's African American driver, Benny Scott.
Description (Brief)
Auto racing gloves worn by Indy car driver John Mahler during the 1979-1980 season. Mahler was a driver for Leonard W. Miller's Vanguard Racing, Inc. in 1972 and a team mate to Vanguard's African American driver, Benny Scott. Mahler, a white driver, competed in the 1972 Indianapolis 500 as the driver for Vanguard Inc. making Vanguard the first African American owned team to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. Vanguard Racing Inc. would reorganize as Black American Racers Inc., an African American auto racing team founded in 1973 by Leonard W. Miller, Wendell Scott, Ron Hines and Malcolm Durham, who were members of the Black American Racers Association (BARA). The goal of BARA was to organize African-American drivers, mechanics, engineers, crew members and owners in stock car, open wheel and drag racing, and pave the way for greater success for African Americans in motor sports.
Location
Currently not on view
user
Mahler, John
ID Number
2016.0353.02
accession number
2016.0353
catalog number
2016.0353.02

Formula Super Vee 30th Anniversary "Tommy Thompson Memorial Trophy" in honor of Black American Racer driver, Tommy Thompson

Formula Super Vee 30th Anniversary "Tommy Thompson Memorial Trophy" in honor of Black American Racer driver, Tommy Thompson, who died as a result of a fatal crash at the Trenton Speedway, Trenton, NJ in September 1978.
Description (Brief)
Formula Super Vee 30th Anniversary "Tommy Thompson Memorial Trophy" in honor of Black American Racer driver, Tommy Thompson, who died as a result of a fatal crash at the Trenton Speedway, Trenton, NJ in September 1978. The trophy was presented to the winner of the reunion Formula Super Vee race at Watkins Glen International, Watkins Glen, NY on June 2, 2001. BAR driver Benny Scott and principal Leonard W. Miller were present at the historical race.
In 1969, Len Miller and his brother Dexter for Miller Racing to race hot rods on the drag racing circuit in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and the Northeast. With success on the racetrack he formed Vanguard Racing in 1972 and was the first African American to enter a car in the Indianapolis 500. He then went on to found the Black American Racers Association in 1973. The goal of the organization was to “unify African-American drivers in all types of racing – stock car, open wheel, and drag racing -- pave the way for greater success and introduce race fans to African-American’s history in motorsports.”
Later that same year the Black American Racers, Inc. (BAR) was formed with Benny Scott as their second generation African-American driver. Also in 1973, BAR became the first team to have an African American driver compete in England. In 1975, BAR driver Benny Scott would break the color barrier at the Long Beach Grand Prix, when the team entered a Formula 5000 car in the inaugural race. Len and Benny Scott were inducted into the Black Athletes Hall of Fame for their achievements in motorsports in 1976. In 1978, BAR experienced a setback when their driver Tommy Thompson was killed in an accident at the Trenton Speedway. Many of the team members took a break after this tragedy and in the 1980s the team turned toward stock car racing.
Location
Currently not on view
date made
2001
user
Miller, Leonard W.
ID Number
2016.0359.09
accession number
2016.0359
catalog number
2016.0359.09

Miller Racing Group shirt worn by co-owner Leonard W. Miller

Miller Racing Group shirt worn by co-owner Leonard W. Miller. The Miller Racing Group was an African American racing team owned by father and son, Leonard W. and Leonard T. Miller. This shirt was worn at public relation events around the country from 2003-2006.
Description (Brief)
Miller Racing Group shirt worn by co-owner Leonard W. Miller. The Miller Racing Group was an African American racing team owned by father and son, Leonard W. and Leonard T. Miller. This shirt was worn at public relation events around the country from 2003-2006. Miller Racing Group was an African American racing team owned by father and son Leonard W. and Leonard T. Miller. MRG was sponsored by Dr. Pepper from 2001-2003 and delivered Dr. Pepper its first corporate win in the brand's history. The team competed in the NASCAR Late Model Stock Weekly Racing Series throughout the southeast. After the 2003 season, the Millers did not have a corporate sponsor for MRG and sustained the team with their personal funds and resources.
Location
Currently not on view
user
Miller, Leonard W.
ID Number
2016.0359.20
accession number
2016.0359
catalog number
2016.0359.20

T-shirt worn by Special Olympian Loretta Claiborne

White short sleeve t-shirt with a blue Special Olympics logo on the left breast worn by Special Olympics track athlete Lorette Claiborne. Claiborne attributes the Special Olympics for saving her life.
Description (Brief)
White short sleeve t-shirt with a blue Special Olympics logo on the left breast worn by Special Olympics track athlete Lorette Claiborne. Claiborne attributes the Special Olympics for saving her life. Born with intellectual disabilities and partially blind, Claiborne developed anger issues from constant teasing at school. Introduced to the Special Olympics by social worker Janet McFarland, she was able to channel her anger into success on the track winning countless medals for her efforts. Claiborne still runs every day and holds the record in the 5000 meters for her age group. She is also a motivational speaker who speaks four languages including American Sign Language. Claiborne has a fourth degree black belt in karate, has completed 26 marathons and her 1996 ESPY Award- Arthur Ashe Award for Courage is one of many accolades she has won over the years.
From its beginnings as Camp Shriver in Eunice Kennedy Shriver’s backyard, to the first international games in 1968, Special Olympics has been about giving people with intellectual disabilities the opportunity to participate in sport. This participation builds confidence, provides emotional support and offers social opportunities for the athletes and their families. With state chapters and a global presence through its World Games, “Special Olympics is the largest sports organization for people with intellectual disabilities with 5 million athletes in 170 countries worldwide.”
Location
Currently not on view
ID Number
2017.0335.01
accession number
2017.0335
catalog number
2017.0335.01

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