Ernest “Ernie” Banks “Mr. Cub” and Chicago Cubs first Black player
On My Walk at Graceland Cemetery, Chicago — Honouring Mr. Cub, Ernie Banks
The morning after catching a Cubs game at the “friendly confines” of Wrigley Field, I found myself walking through nearby Graceland Cemetery. There, beneath the shade of old Chicago trees, I discovered the grave of the greatest Cub of all time — Ernie Banks, affectionately known as Mr. Cub.
Ernie Banks is widely regarded as one of baseball’s all-time greats. His journey to Major League Baseball began in 1950 with the Kansas City Monarchs of the Negro Leagues, before breaking into the National League on September 17, 1953, with the Chicago Cubs.
“Playing for the Kansas City Monarchs was like my school, my learning, my world. It was my whole life.”
Born in Dallas, Texas, Ernie brought joy, optimism, and fierce athleticism to both shortstop and first base over his remarkable 18-year career — all of it spent wearing a Cubs uniform. Although he never won a World Series, his love for the game was never in question.
Ernie was known for his infectious enthusiasm and a catchphrase that still echoes at Wrigley Field:
“We’ve got the setting – sunshine, fresh air, the team behind us. So… let’s play two!”
A 14-time All-Star, 2-time National League MVP, and first-ballot Hall of Fame inductee in 1977, Ernie Banks had his beloved number 14 retired by the Cubs on August 22, 1982 — a fitting honour for a man who embodied the heart and soul of Chicago baseball.
”Mr. Sunshine”, Ernie Banks died in Chicago on January 23, 2015. He was 83.
1931-2015
Visited Mr. Cub’s statue at Wrigley Field prior to a weekday afternoon game.
Ernie Banks original monument at Graceland Cemetery that was replaced in 2017.
See my visit to Minnie Minoso’s grave also in Graceland Cemetery in Chicago.
