Memorabilia from the Solons’ revival in the mid-1970s is featured in the Sacramento History Museum’s Play Ball! exhibit which runs until Oct. 18.

SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) – For baseball fans looking to escape the summer heat, a drive to the Sacramento History Museum will treat visitors to the Play Ball! exhibit that traces the history of baseball in Sacramento from the first official game in 1860 to the present-day River Cats team.

Although not an overwhelmingly large showing, it focuses primarily on the Sacramento Solons following the evolution of the team, then additionally highlights the origins of baseball in the area including barnstorming tour visits by baseball legends including Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Joe DiMaggio, Willie Mays and Hank Aaron while also drawing attention to local players who made it to “the show”.

One of the early Sacramento Solons jerseys on display at the Play Ball! exhibition at the Sacramento History Museum.

A minor league baseball team in the Pacific Coast League that had its heyday from 1903 to 1960 before a brief revival from 1974-1976, the Solons were one of baseball’s true farm teams and were affiliated with the St. Louis Cardinals dating back to the 1930s.

Visitors will find Solon memorabilia displayed throughout along with a special section featuring the River Cats, substantiating the claim made by Sacramento native and the most successful player/manager to come from the area, Dusty Baker who said that “This is a baseball city. It always has been, since I can remember.”

For those wishing to take in the display that runs through Oct. 18, the museum is located at 101 I Street, Old Sacramento State Historic Park. Admission is $12 for adults (18+) and $6 for youth (6-17).