Jackie Robinson

Baseball HOF Induction Address

delivered 23 July 1962

"First of all, I want you to know that this honor that was brought up on me here could not have happened without the great work and the advice and guidance that I’ve had from three of the most wonderful people that I know. And if either of them weren’t here today, I know that this day could not be complete."

"But, they’re all here and I just hope you don’t mind if I just pay a word of thanks and a tribute to my advisor and a wonderful friend, a man who I considered a father, Mr. Branch Rickey."

"And my mother, who taught me so much of the important things early in life. I appreciate no end, my mother Mrs. Robinson."

"And lastly, ladies and gentlemen, my wife, who has been such a wonderful inspiration to me -- and the person who has guided and advised me throughout our entire marriage. I couldn’t have been here today without her help."

"And then I -- In sitting down I must thank the baseball writers. I never thought at all that I would have this wonderful honor coming to me so early in my lifetime. And to have the writers to elect me on the first time is a thrill that I shall never forget. We have been up in cloud nine since the election. I don’t ever think I’ll come down."

Text and Audio of Address