The Extraordinary Story Of Baseball Legend Edith Houghton

Baseball is often seen as a male-dominated sport, but there are incredible stories of amazing women who have left their mark in the history of the game. One such legend is Edith Houghton. Her journey from a young girl to a baseball phenom is nothing short of extraordinary.

Edith Houghton was born in Philadelphia in 1912. Growing up, she fell in love with the sport of baseball and had an exceptional talent for it. At the age of 10, she was already playing with the Philadelphia Bobbies, a women's professional baseball team.

Houghton's skills on the field were exceptional, and soon she caught the attention of the Philadelphia Athletics, a Major League Baseball team. At the age of 13, she became the team's unofficial batting practice pitcher. This made her the first female scout in professional baseball history, as she helped the coach evaluate potential players by throwing pitches during tryouts.

The Kid from Diamond Street: The Extraordinary Story of Baseball Legend Edith Houghton

by Audrey Vernick (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9184 KB
Print length	:	40 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

As Houghton's reputation grew, she embarked on a journey that took her all around the world. At the age of 17, she became the youngest professional baseball player and signed a contract with a team from Japan. She played for the Tokyo Kyojin for one season, during which she amazed the crowds with her exceptional skills.

After her time in Japan, Houghton returned to the United States and continued her career in baseball. She played with several teams, including the Philadelphia Bobbies and the Hollywood Stars. Despite facing many challenges, she never let her gender become an obstacle on her path to greatness.

During World War II, Houghton volunteered to serve as part of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). This league was formed to keep baseball alive while male players were serving in the military. Houghton played for the Milwaukee Chicks and later the South Bend Blue Sox, where she showcased her talent and contributed to the league's success.

After her retirement from playing, Houghton remained involved in the world of baseball. She worked as a scout for the Philadelphia Phillies and became a beloved figure in the sport. Her extraordinary journey inspired many aspiring young athletes, both male and female, to pursue their dreams and break down barriers.

Edith Houghton's legacy continues to inspire future generations. In 2006, she was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, becoming the only woman to be recognized for her contributions to the sport. Her story serves as a reminder that with dedication, passion, and talent, anyone can achieve greatness, regardless of their gender.

It is important to honor and celebrate the trailblazers like Edith Houghton who paved the way for women in sports. Their extraordinary stories remind us that greatness knows no boundaries and that with determination and perseverance, we can achieve anything.

The Kid from Diamond Street: The Extraordinary Story of Baseball Legend Edith Houghton

by Audrey Vernick (Kindle Edition)

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9184 KB
Print length	:	40 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

Audrey Vernick and Steven Salerno have again collaborated to bring us a captivating picture book about a compelling but little-known piece of baseball history. Beginning in 1922, when Edith Houghton was only ten years old, she tried out for a women’s professional baseball team, the Philadelphia Bobbies. Though she was the smallest on the field, soon reporters were talking about “The Kid” and her incredible skill, and crowds were packing the stands to see her play. Her story reminds us that baseball has never been about just men and boys. Baseball is also about talented girls willing to work hard to play any way they can.