Talk arises of Mickey Mantle museum

By Alex Cameron, News 9

Mickey Mantle became an American icon after earning achievements as a New York Yankee. The baseball legend's name can be found in several places in Bricktown.

Redhawks General Managing partner Scott Pruitt said they have spoken with the Mantle family about a possible Mickey Mantle Museum.

"It's something we're very excited about," Pruitt said.

2008 marks thirteen years after the death of the all-time Yankee great.

"People know the name, they love what he was about as a player, and we need to tell that story completely so they know who he was a person, and how it can influence youth and how it can influence people across the country, and I think that's the desire," Pruitt said.

Bricktown officials said a district known primarily for entertainment could soon boast several museums and become a tourist destination.

"It would bring people in, not only from around the state, but from outside the state, to see what we have to offer here," said Jim Cowan of the Bricktown Association.

Redhawks officials said between the Mantle family and other collectors, there is plenty of unique memorabilia that could go in the museum.

"The most important part is what does it need to say, and how are we going to impact people, and what is the purpose and direction," Pruitt said. "That's the part we're working on right now."

Mickey Mantle was born in Spavinaw, Oklahoma, but was raised in Commerce. He was inducted into the baseball hall of fame in 1974.