SPRINGFIELD — The Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame on Saturday will honor Dr. Edwin B. Henderson, the first African American male certified to teach physical education in U.S. public schools and widely known as the “Father of Black Basketball,” at an event featuring a talk by his grandson, a historian who authored a book chronicling Henderson’s contributions to the sport and his civil rights legacy.
“The Grandfather of Black Basketball: The Life and Times of Dr. E. B. Henderson,” by Edwin Bancroft Henderson II. (Provided photo)Provided photo
At the event scheduled from 1 to 4 p.m. in the Hall of Fame Theater, Edwin B. Henderson II will present and sign copies of his book, “The Grandfather of Black Basketball: The Life and Times of Dr. E. B. Henderson,” based on research the author conducted after discovering what he called “a treasure trove” of materials in his late grandfather’s attic. The event is free to museum guests.
