Nancy Churnin, author of a picture book about Hancock County native and pro baseball player, William Hoy, will speak at the Mazza Museum on Sunday, Sept. 18 in an event presented in collaboration with the Hancock Historical Museum.

From 1 to 3:30 p.m., families are invited to enjoy baseball-themed stations, sign language lessons, book signing and a presentation from Churnin. Following these activities, Churnin will give a special historical presentation geared for adult audiences at 4 p.m.

“William Hoy’s life story is an inspiring example of determination,” said Sarah Sisser, Executive Director of the Hancock Historical Museum. “Nancy’s book has made that story more accessible for young people. The Hancock Historical Museum is proud to be partnering with the Mazza Museum to raise awareness about Hoy’s legacy and celebrate the impact this Hancock County native had on the game of baseball, America’s favorite pastime.”

Churnin’s book “The William Hoy Story,” released this spring, follows Hoy’s journey as a deaf baseball player in the 1880s. Born in Houcktown in Hancock County, Hoy first tried out for the local deaf team but was rejected for his size. He never gave up and eventually earned a position on the Cincinnati Reds. With his disability, he couldn’t hear the umpire’s calls of “strike,” “ball” or “out” until he asked them to use hand signals. Not only did the gestures make him a better player, his experience changed the way baseball is played today.

Learn more about Hoy in an exhibit opening at the Hancock Historical Museum on Thursday, Aug. 25. The museum is also featuring a larger exhibit on the history of baseball in Hancock County that will be on display through October 7. Visit www.HancockHistoricalMuseum.org for more information.

More information about Nancy Churnin can be found on her website at www.nancychurnin.com.

The Mazza Museum, located on the campus of the University of Findlay in the Virginia B. Gardner Fine Arts Pavilion, is home to the world’s most diverse collection of original picture book art. Admission is free, and the museum hosts a variety of events throughout the year for children and adults of all ages. Visit conference.mazzamuseum.org for more information.