The 1946 Chattanooga Choo-Choos with Willie Mays, kneeling fourth from the left.(Negro Southern League Museum Research Center)

When baseball was segregated in this country - from after the Civil War until Jackie Robinson after World War II - Negro League Baseball provided the opportunity for Black players to stay in the game.

Chattanooga hosted several Negro League teams - and this weekend, the Chattanooga Lookouts and the Bessie Smith Cultural Center will commemorate that legacy with Negro League Appreciation Weekend.

Elijah Cameron is with The Bessie.