1930-31 Homestead Grays: Colored Champions

Step into the golden age of Black baseball with this expertly framed photograph of the 1931 Homestead Grays, one of the most dominant teams in Negro League history. The Homestead Grays emerged from the steel mill town of Homestead, Pennsylvania, in 1912, rising from industrial league roots to become a powerhouse that would dominate Black baseball for over three decades. Their legacy represents the resilience, excellence, and entrepreneurial spirit that defined the African American experience in the early 20th century.

The Homestead Grays' story is inseparable from the Posey family legacy. Cumberland Posey Sr., a successful businessman and riverboat builder, helped establish the team's foundation. His son, Cumberland "Cum" Posey Jr., transformed the franchise from player to player-manager to principal owner, building one of the most successful franchises in Negro League history. In the late 1930s, Posey partnered with Rufus "Sonnyman" Jackson, forming a powerful ownership group that helped the team establish a unique two-city operation between Pittsburgh and Washington, D.C.

The 1931 season marked a pivotal year for the Grays, as they assembled what many historians consider one of the greatest baseball teams ever formed. This squad featured an unprecedented collection of talent, including five future Hall of Famers. Their success during this period helped establish the Grays as the most successful franchise in Negro League history, setting attendance records and inspiring generations of African Americans during a time of severe racial segregation.

Featured Player Profiles:

Josh Gibson: Known as the "Black Babe Ruth," Gibson was arguably the greatest power hitter in baseball history, with some estimates crediting him with over 800 home runs in his career. His legendary status and incredible achievements helped pave the way for future generations of African American athletes.

Cumberland Posey: Starting as a player, Posey evolved into the most influential figure in Grays history as a player-owner. His business acumen and leadership made the Grays one of the most successful Black-owned enterprises of its era, and he remains the only person inducted into both the Baseball and Basketball Halls of Fame.

Smokey Joe Williams: Considered one of the greatest pitchers of all time, Williams dominated batters with his blazing fastball and sharp breaking pitches. His career spanned nearly 30 years, earning him the nickname "Cyclone."

Oscar Charleston: Often called the "Black Ty Cobb," Charleston was a complete player who combined power, speed, and defensive excellence. Many baseball historians rank him among the top players in baseball history, regardless of league.

Jud Wilson: A fearsome hitter known as "Boojum" for the sound his line drives made, Wilson was one of the most consistent batters in Negro League history. His aggressive style and clutch hitting made him a fan favorite.

George "Tubby" Scales: A versatile infielder who was known for his strong batting skills and defensive prowess. He later became a successful manager in the Negro Leagues.

Vic Harris: A talented outfielder who later became a successful manager for the Homestead Grays. He led the team to several Negro National League pennants in the 1940s.

Ted "Double Duty" Radcliffe: Earned his nickname by catching the first game of doubleheaders and pitching the second. His versatility and durability made him one of the most unique players in baseball history.

Ted Page: A speedy outfielder known for his excellent defensive skills and base running abilities. He later became a successful businessman in Pittsburgh after his playing career.

Additional Team Members:

While detailed historical records are limited, we honor the following players who were vital members of this legendary 1931 Homestead Grays team: Bill Evans, Jap Washington, Red Reed, Charlie Walker Jr., Chippy Britt, Lefty Williams, and Ambrose Reed. Though comprehensive biographical information may not be available for these players, their contributions to the team's success and the advancement of Black baseball remain an important part of this historic photograph.

This elegant 12x10-inch framed piece features professional double matting with an off-white top mat and classic black bottom mat, perfectly showcasing the historical 5.7-inch image captured by Harrison Studio. The 1.25-inch black frame provides a timeless finish that will complement any home or office decor while preserving this important piece of African American history.