The Pepsi Cola Giants were one of the many semi-professional baseball teams once located in the Tampa Bay area and showcased some of the best African American talent in the state. This image, taken in the late 1930s, came during a time when teams such as the Giants served as feeders for professional Negro League teams. The best of the best from local semi-pro teams were likely to be signed by major clubs such as the New York Black Yankees, Indianapolis Clowns and Newark Eagles.This photograph features players such as Alex Broome, “Schoolboy” Allen, Adam Young, John McQueen, Nathaniel Davis, Tete Guzman, Red Lopez, “Mutt” Brooks, J.B. Broome, John Gibbons, and Pepsi Cola Giants owner George Morris.
The Tampa Bay History Center is currently hosting an exhibit on loan from the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum called “Shades of Greatness: Art Inspired by the Negro Leagues Baseball.” The exhibit, which also features a component highlighting local Negro League players from the Tampa Bay area, runs through April 25.
Photograph Courtesy of Special & Digital Collections, Tampa Library, University of South Florida
Thank you for posting this picture. My father played in this league. The Late "Mutt" Brooks. I remember as a kid going to his games and sitting on the front row cheering him on. He was the teams shortstop. How can I obtain a copy of this picture and are there any more?
ReplyDeleteHi! My name is Joy and I'm working with a Tampa museum to help commemorate local baseball history. I would love to get some more information about your father for inclusion in our negro league exhibit. Feel free to email me at jfeagan@ybormuseum.org. Thank you!
DeleteHi Joy, I posted below and would like to know if you could give me a call please?
DeleteHi, I am interested in learning more about these teams as well. Any other repository for finding this and photo archives?
ReplyDeleteMy father played for the Giants in the 70's I would like to obtain a copy of the photo in front of the bus. My father is still living and I would like him to have a copy for him I know he would like to know that he's apart of history. my name is Sonia Jones my number is 8136103601 please give me a call
ReplyDeleteThis is so odd because I have a picture of the seffner clowns. I don't know if your father would know anything of this it would be great knowledge.
DeleteHello, I am researching the players and Negro League teams from Tampa for future episodes of www.BaseballBizOnDeck.com.
ReplyDeleteCurrently, I am beginning research on 2 Tampa players, Hipolito Arenas & Walter Gibbons.
I welcome any players, family or historians who could help. You may reach me at baseballbizondeck@gmail.com.
Thank you.