Beck Cultural Exchange Center Presents
Knoxville's Black Baseball Legacy:
Triumph, Talent, and Tradition
From the Negro Leagues to the Smokies
Knoxville & Its Baseball roots
Since the 19th century, Knoxville has been a part of “America’s Pastime,” with the very first baseball game rumored to be a contest between the Holstons, a team of former Confederate soldiers led by William Caswell, and the Knoxvilles, composed of former Union soldiers. Overtime, baseball here in the city began to branch out in many forms as men, women, and children were eager to play the game. However, having to grapple with Jim Crow and segregation, Knoxville's Black community managed to carve their own space in baseball - creating a legacy that is honored today.
Black Baseball in Knoxville
Baseball has long been a staple of Knoxville’s Black community, with local teams and leagues providing a source of pride, unity, and competition. Throughout the early 20th century, Black baseball in Knoxville flourished despite the challenges of segregation. Games were played on fields across the city, drawing in exciting crowds and creating a strong sense of community. Baseball became more than just a sport — it was a symbol of resilience and a celebration of Black excellence. The legacy of these teams and their players laid the foundation for the rise of the Knoxville Giants and Knoxville’s place in Negro League history.
The Knoxville Giants
Established
The Knoxville Giants were Knoxville’s Negro League team and a key part of the city’s baseball history. Playing in the early to mid-20th century, the Giants competed against other teams across the Southeast, building a reputation for their skill and competitive spirit. The team was a source of pride for Knoxville’s Black community, drawing passionate crowds and creating lasting memories. The Giants’ history reflects the broader story of Black baseball — a testament to resilience, excellence, and the fight for recognition in the face of segregation.
The Bottom
A Neighborhood Wiped from the Map
The Bottom was a historically significant Black neighborhood in Knoxville, predominantly inhabited by poor, working-class Black families. This community consisted of residences, businesses, schools, and churches, fostering a strong sense of unity and cultural identity. In the mid-20th century, urban renewal projects led to the complete demolition of The Bottom, displacing its residents and erasing much of its physical presence. Today, the site is being revitalized with the construction of Covenant Health Park, a new multi-use stadium set to open in April 2025. This development aims to honor the legacy of The Bottom by integrating historical elements into the stadium's design and serving as a catalyst for community engagement and economic growth in the area.
The Tennessee Smokies Return to Knoxville
In 2025, the Smokies’ move to Knoxville marked an exciting new chapter for the city, reconnecting Knoxville with its rich baseball history and fostering a renewed sense of community. Following the team’s inaugural season, Covenant Health Park has become an important platform for celebrating Knoxville’s deep ties to Black baseball, including the Knoxville Giants and the Negro Leagues, while also highlighting the broader history of East Knoxville. Beck is proud to be involved in this chapter of local history and looks forward to continuing this work through collaboration, education, and public engagement.
