Gone But Not Forgotten

For 80 years Robert Gilkerson lay in unmarked grave in the southeast corner of Miller Cemetery in Spring Valley, Illinois.

The house at 118 Dalzell St., where Gilkerson lived and died, still stands just a few blocks away.  The remnants of Hicks Park where his players held "spring training" every April, is a short distance just to the southeast.

Even though the Union Giants were one of the most popular independent baseball teams in the Midwest at one time, there are no historical markers commemorating Gilkerson's life or accomplishments.

In fact, almost no one in Spring Valley today has ever heard the name Robert Gilkerson.  Even among fans of baseball and local history, the town's connection to Black baseball is a complete mystery.

Gilkerson was all but forgotten in his adopted hometown.  That is, until very recently, when the Negro Leagues Baseball Grave Marker Project provided him with a proper grave marker. 

Thanks to this organization's generosity and commitment to preserving the memories of African American ball players, Gilkerson like many others, will not be forgotten.  Hopefully this marker sparks interest in Gilkerson's life, particularly in the place where he lived for 30 years, and helps get him the recognition that he deserves.