As visitors of all ages walk the halls of The World of Little League® Museum, they get a first-hand look at hundreds of artifacts, photos, and videos that connect them to the people and moments in history that made the Little League® program what it is today. But what is on display does not tell the full story.
“From the Vault” is a monthly content series showcasing exhibits and artifacts on display for visitors to see in person, as well as items currently “hidden” in the vaults. In July 2026, Adam Thompson, Director of The World of Little League Museum, gives fans a closer look at two artifacts “from the vault” – a mid-20th-century batting helmet and Joey the kangaroo. Plus, Thompson gives a sneak peek of an item on display for visitors – the 1974 Little League Softball® World Series Jersey.
From the Vault: Before the Modern Batting Helmet
During the mid-20th century, baseball players weren’t fully protected in the batter’s box, but they did look awfully stylish. Thanks to Dr. Creighton J. Hale, Little League’s Research Director and former Little League President and CEO, by 1960 there was a new requirement about the type of helmet that must be worn. Today, you can see the latest Easton helmets designed to provide safety and style for our players competing in all seven of the Little League World Series tournaments across the country.
From the Vault: Little League’s Lucky Kangaroo
A good luck charm and mascot, Joey the kangaroo, became part of Australia’s team identity at the Little League Baseball® World Series in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. This inflatable friend is a symbol of toughness, national pride, and a little playful defiance. Joey reminds us that the international is about culture and a special spirit of fun that is impossible to ignore. Join Thompson to learn more about Joey!
On Display: The Jersey That Helped Launch a Softball Legacy
This orange jersey belongs to the winners of the very first Little League Softball World Series in 1974, and today that orange color has become symbolic of the Little League Softball program. The inaugural season brought more than 50,000 players across more than 460 leagues, exceeding all expectations and showing how important the launch of the program was for the organization. More than 50 years later, Little League continues to honor this significant moment in history with the iconic Little League Softball orange, seen throughout the organization’s branding, including as the cornerstone color of the Girls with Game Initiative.
About the World of Little League®: Peter J. McGovern Museum and Official Store
The World of Little League®: Peter J. McGovern Museum and Official Store is located at 525 Montgomery Pike (U.S. Route 15) in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. Additional information about the Museum, including pricing, hours, and any additional updates, can be found at LittleLeagueMuseum.org or by contacting the Museum at 570-326-3607. Follow World of Little League on Facebook (Facebook.com/LittleLeagueMuseum) and X/Twitter (Twitter.com/LLBMuseum). Visitors of Lycomi