Object Details
user
Gibson, Althea
maker
Lee, Harry C.
Description (Brief)
Althea Gibson (1927-2003) used this racquet when winning the woman's singles title at Wimbeldon in 1958. Gibson was the first African-American to play in, and win, Wimbledon. She hoisted the prestigous event's silver trophy twice (1957 and 1958.) She was also the first black woman to play in the U.S. Tennis Championships (1950) to win the U.S. Open, and to complete a Grand-Slam.
Gibson also broke the color barrier in professional golf when she joined the LPGA in 1964.
Location
Currently not on view
Credit Line
Gift of Althea Gibson
date made
1950 - 1959
ID Number
1988.0260.06
accession number
1988.0260
catalog number
1988.0260.06
Object Name
racquet, tennis
Physical Description
wood (overall material)
nylon (overall material)
varnish; leather; paint; synthetic (overall material)
Measurements
overall: 18 in x 11 in x 2 1/2 in; 45.72 cm x 27.94 cm x 6.35 cm
overall: 27 1/4 in x 9 1/8 in x 1 1/2 in; 69.215 cm x 23.1775 cm x 3.81 cm
See more items in
Culture and the Arts: Sport and Leisure
Highlights from the Culture and the Arts Collection
Data Source
National Museum of American History
name of sport
Tennis
web subject
Sports
level of sport
Professional
web subject
Women
African American
Link to Original Record
Record ID
nmah_748877