Chico History Museum’s special exhibit of the Peppers’ fast-pitch softball team. (Image: Kathryn Reed)

If you think women’s sports is just now becoming popular, then you don’t know about the Chico Peppers.

So popular were the Peppers that the Chico History Museum has an entire special exhibit on the team that will remain for the next few months.

Long before Title IX equalized sporting opportunities for males and females, this team that was formed in 1962 was taking the field. Thousands of people would attend local games at Hooker Oak. The women were prolific when it came to accruing titles and trophies.

Softball has been a thriving sport in this city since 1936, long before the Peppers came into being.

I’m fortunate to know a former Pepper, my friend Gracie. She played in the outfield for this fast-pitch team. She has wonderful memories to share about those days, her teammates and coach Joan Wallace.

They played teams throughout the state, as well as competed in national and international tournaments.

The museum lists all of their milestones—which is quite impressive.

While the team disbanded in 1983, some players regrouped in the 1990s where they played in a senior circuit, even though some were in their 20s.

Various uniforms hang from the rafters, while photos line the walls of the museum. Hats, gloves, trophies are all part of the exhibit.