Emmett Ashford

About

First African-American umpire in Major League Baseball.

Before Fame

He sold magazines and worked as a cashier to get by in his youth.

Trivia

He liked to wear flashy jewelry and fine clothes when off the baseball field, which many thought was inappropriate for an umpire.

Family Life

Got married to his sweetheart, Virginia.

Associated With

He was inspired to become the first black umpire by a radio announcement that Jackie Robinson had become the first black pro baseball player.