The 2nd Annual Mickey Mantle Classic baseball tournament was held in Commerce, OK April 10-14, 2001.

On Saturday, April 14th, the school gymnasium was the site of one of the largest collections of Mantle memorabilia in the country.  Johnny Blanchard (former Yankee catcher and Mickey's teammate) was on hand to sign autographs and to offer baseball tips.  Bob Mallon, Mickey's first roommate on the 1949 Independence Yankees was also on hand for the event.  Author, John Hall, was present offering KOM memorabilia and sharing memories.  

Todd McClain and Brian Brassfield, owners of Mickey Mantle's childhood home, have just about completed their massive project of restoring the treasured historic site.  They are currently in the process of adding furnishings from the 20's-30's.  It is expected to be completed within six months.

Finally, on my long drive back to Houston, I stopped in Oklahoma City to visit the Bricktown Ballpark.  In front of the ballpark is a massive bronze statue of 'The Mick' along with handprints and autographs of many of Mickey's teammates and family members. 

 Across the street from the ballpark is the new Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse.

Below are some thumbnail images of the event.  You can click on any picture to see a larger copy of that same picture.

Wide angle views of Mickey Mantle exhibit

Closer views of Mickey Mantle exhibit

#1 Bob Mallon, myself and Johnny Blanchard

#2 Johnny Blanchard and me

#3 John Hall and Johnny Blanchard

#4 Johnny offering free batting instruction

#5 Johnny signing for fans

Johnny holding a baseball clinic for the Commerce Tiger baseball team

Mickey Mantle's childhood home (house and barn)

Inside Mickey Mantle's childhood home (bathroom & kitchen)

Southwestern Bell's Bricktown Ballpark in Oklahoma City, OK

Mickey Mantle's Steakhouse in Oklahoma City, OK