BOSTON -- In the rubble of the World Trade Center, a New York City firefighter found a baseball.

Not a real major league baseball, mind you, but a promotional baseball manufactured by a company with offices in the north tower.

Photos: Exhibit Opening

In the midst of their searching through tons of debris, this undamaged ball became a symbol for the firefighters of the country’s resilience.

This baseball and the cap worn by Red Sox pitcher Curt Schilling after the Sept. 11 attacks, greet visitors to the Museum of Science “Baseball As America” exhibit in Boston.

It’s powerful symbolism of the cultural resonance that baseball often provides in America. More than a game, it weaves together the threads of the country’s culture, racial history and values.

“Baseball and America have grown up together,” said Jane Forbes Clark, chairman of the board of the Baseball Hall of Fame. “It is such an integral part of our culture that we often take for granted its deep day-to-day significance in our lives.”

From integration to immigration, the displays become mirrors that reflect turmoil, growth and accomplishment.

The museum calls it a celebration of our romance with baseball as America’s pastime.

The exhibit includes more than 500 items from the Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, including Schillings’ bloody sock from the 2004 World Series, a Jackie Robinson jersey and the record-breaking home run bats of Babe Ruth and Roger Maris.

Visitors will also have the chance to experience the catcher’s view of a 90 mph fastball coming out of the pitcher’s hand and test their own ability to react to the speed of the game.

But it is the generational bond that game exerts upon children, parents and grandparents that is the most lasting impression. The country’s spirit, promise of equal opportunity and connection through the tradition of baseball are captured in the common cultural experience that baseball represents.

The exhibit will be open until Sept.1 at the museum.