tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60553588417331537702024-03-12T22:47:57.695-04:00Baseball ResearcherUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger102125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-11851342789733663782021-11-28T15:15:00.004-05:002021-11-28T15:25:25.749-05:00Winging It with Roberto Clemente<p> </p><p>One of the most celebrated images of the great Roberto Clemente shows the outfielder gracefully leaping to catch a ball as clouds in the background form near-perfect angel wings behind him:</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gefRqxviEw8/YaPewVq5BqI/AAAAAAAAGjA/fRN_4oNBFFwN2cSvuQjfpPJrSmg5vYPpgCNcBGAsYHQ/s906/clemente-1.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="906" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gefRqxviEw8/YaPewVq5BqI/AAAAAAAAGjA/fRN_4oNBFFwN2cSvuQjfpPJrSmg5vYPpgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/clemente-1.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Click on the image above to enlarge and see greater detail.</span></p><p>The original photo was shot by <i>Pittsburgh Post-Gazette</i> staff photographer Jim Klingensmith in Fort Myers, Florida, at Terry Park, spring training home of the Pirates from 1955 to 1968. It is a remarkable picture, but is everything we see real or has the image been doctored?</p><p>By carefully flipping a portion of the left-side cloud structure (Clemente’s right wing) and placing it atop the other wing, it is apparent that significant features are actually identical mirror images of one another. Pay close attention to the identical outlines of the insides of both the right and left wings:</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wwuQQifmnJY/YaPfBDTqctI/AAAAAAAAGjI/4ksqoyB57X8kyy44DKwG0rIYwo4Y8njOACNcBGAsYHQ/s906/first-anim.gif"><img border="0" data-original-height="902" data-original-width="906" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wwuQQifmnJY/YaPfBDTqctI/AAAAAAAAGjI/4ksqoyB57X8kyy44DKwG0rIYwo4Y8njOACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/first-anim.gif" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Click on the image above to enlarge and see greater detail.</span></p><p>Not only are the shapes of the insides of the wings the same, but individual markings in the cloud structure are repeated. There is simply no doubt that some portions of the clouds were altered to produce these wings. Here are a few of the particular features (slightly darker “dimples” in the white clouds) that are mirrored on both wings:</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xjfcl01iqto/YaPfJiVAY5I/AAAAAAAAGjM/8-hRwk8QVPsPcSqwTvoXikNEPK2pw2YAQCNcBGAsYHQ/s856/second-anim.gif"><img border="0" data-original-height="520" data-original-width="856" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xjfcl01iqto/YaPfJiVAY5I/AAAAAAAAGjM/8-hRwk8QVPsPcSqwTvoXikNEPK2pw2YAQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/second-anim.gif" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Click on the image above to enlarge and see greater detail.</span></p><p>Other clues seen in the image also make it clear that the picture underwent significant “Photoshopping.” For example, at left on the ground there are multiple repeated patterns, suggesting the use of Photoshop’s “cloning” tool (or some similar technique), which samples a small section of an image and repeats it elsewhere within the image. Here is one such repeated pattern, but careful examination of the image shows that the technique was performed elsewhere, as well:</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SXCRL9ecHWA/YaPfNBWkJvI/AAAAAAAAGjQ/v5JKu521b7k9PdFNNRAbnSDxVWOkV0wbgCNcBGAsYHQ/s856/third-anim.gif"><img border="0" data-original-height="564" data-original-width="856" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SXCRL9ecHWA/YaPfNBWkJvI/AAAAAAAAGjQ/v5JKu521b7k9PdFNNRAbnSDxVWOkV0wbgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/third-anim.gif" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Click on the image above to enlarge and see greater detail.</span></p><p>In short, what we are seeing is a significantly doctored photograph of Roberto Clemente. Just when the image underwent the changes is unclear, but make no mistake. Though the picture has been altered, what remains <i>unaltered</i> is the indisputable impact this great man had, both on and off the field.</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-15387577611174227032021-11-02T09:04:00.001-04:002021-11-02T09:16:54.952-04:00Olympic Athletes at Hilltop Park and Baseball at the 1912 Olympics<p><br /></p><p>The <a href="https://www.loc.gov/photos" target="_blank">web site of the Prints and Photographs Division of the Library Congress</a> features over a million items, the vast majority of which are photographs, prints, or drawings that have been digitized and made available to the public. Thousands of these images are related to baseball. But, as with any collection this vast, some image metadata is incomplete or erroneous. I recently stumbled across this photograph with the title of “Olympic athletes coming on field” and a summary at the Library of Congress web site that states “Photo related to the 5th Olympic Games, held in Stockholm, Sweden, in 1912.”</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ICCdyMULIdY/YX7eJyStx5I/AAAAAAAAGfY/i13ZPhPHr7IQoXgkRVZuy2hF-8_sHLsQACNcBGAsYHQ/s1200/A.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="873" data-original-width="1200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ICCdyMULIdY/YX7eJyStx5I/AAAAAAAAGfY/i13ZPhPHr7IQoXgkRVZuy2hF-8_sHLsQACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/A.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span>Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, </span>LC-DIG-ggbain-12183</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div><p>Something about this photo sure seemed familiar to me. Take a look at the distinctive building in the background:<br /></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2QvFgXnHoPM/YX7ey-nSSYI/AAAAAAAAGfg/KmLag4AxvXUhH8t75HHPqrhJr6a2LHpWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/A-building.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="857" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2QvFgXnHoPM/YX7ey-nSSYI/AAAAAAAAGfg/KmLag4AxvXUhH8t75HHPqrhJr6a2LHpWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/A-building.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>Now take a look at this photo of Cleveland utility man Neal Ball shot in 1910 by famed baseball photographer Charles Conlon:</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GjVl-1TUvlo/YX7finZRHKI/AAAAAAAAGfo/n3loHHik3JAPYF99WGffHtYPrwSzJykvgCNcBGAsYHQ/s797/Neal%2BBall_conlon.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="797" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GjVl-1TUvlo/YX7finZRHKI/AAAAAAAAGfo/n3loHHik3JAPYF99WGffHtYPrwSzJykvgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Neal%2BBall_conlon.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>This latter photo was taken at Hilltop Park (also known as American League Park), home to the New York Yankees from 1903 to 1912, and, very briefly, to the New York Giants for some six weeks in the spring of 1911.</p><p>Recognize the building in the background at left? It is the same one that we see in the Library of Congress’s photo titled “Olympic athletes coming on field.” The building was New York’s Public School No. 169 located at 68 Audubon Avenue, between West 168th and West 169th Streets in the city’s Washington Heights neighborhood. Here’s a close-up view of the majestic structure as seen from Audubon Avenue:</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zf96Vv62Amk/YX7g71gNngI/AAAAAAAAGfw/ZqjYlR9hwMknU8P9LblOQJtVTmkDzgFhQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/PS-169.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="774" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zf96Vv62Amk/YX7g71gNngI/AAAAAAAAGfw/ZqjYlR9hwMknU8P9LblOQJtVTmkDzgFhQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/PS-169.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>As an aside, attending the school at this very time was one George Ranft. The young boy later simplified his surname to Raft and became a film star whom you might recall from such movies as “Scarface” (1932), “They Drive by Night” (1940), and “Some Like It Hot” (1959). I like to imagine that as a youth, Raft skipped class now and then, peered out a school window, and watched baseball stars such as Ty Cobb, Walter Johnson, or Hal Chase play ball at the nearby park.</p><p></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDGEz_AmtBk/YX7hcHQ_ecI/AAAAAAAAGf4/eREcwbozKnYnkOc4WyVK5JNYsq60H-CUQCNcBGAsYHQ/s600/BLA_Raft_Cagney_baseball.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="470" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dDGEz_AmtBk/YX7hcHQ_ecI/AAAAAAAAGf4/eREcwbozKnYnkOc4WyVK5JNYsq60H-CUQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/BLA_Raft_Cagney_baseball.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-small;">George Raft (left) with Jimmy Cagney, June 29, 1935, at Wrigley Field, Los Angeles</span><p></p><p>But back to our photo of “Olympic athletes coming on field,” we now know that the action took place at Hilltop Park. In this early 20th century era, ballparks generally changed outfield wall advertisements once a year. For the baseball picture researcher, these ads act as “ballpark fingerprints” and thus help date photographs. Many of the advertisements in this photo have been intentionally obscured with black ink so as not to give free ad space to companies when the photo was reproduced in newspapers. Happily, however, the process was done rather clumsily and enough of these ads are visible to match them with unobscured images of the park from known years. For this picture the ads match perfectly with those seen in other photos of Hilltop Park from 1912, the last season in which the park hosted big league baseball.</p><p>At far left is an ad for Vogel & Co. clothiers. Moving towards the right field corner we next see ads for Adams’ Pepsin Tutti Frutti gum, Young’s Hats, Coronet Dry Gin, Underwood Typewriters (“The Machine You Will Eventually Buy”), and a large sign for “Bull” Durham Tobacco.</p><p>Here are a pair of photos of Hilltop Park from 1912 that show these identical outfield signs:</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_6JUvHSQEWM/YX7ke3mgwWI/AAAAAAAAGgA/WC6w70jYs_gsbJuv6UgOxgolCmVzIFrsACNcBGAsYHQ/s795/Hughie%2BJennings_conlon_2.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="795" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_6JUvHSQEWM/YX7ke3mgwWI/AAAAAAAAGgA/WC6w70jYs_gsbJuv6UgOxgolCmVzIFrsACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Hughie%2BJennings_conlon_2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Dz-0uUgqgU/YX7keylp1cI/AAAAAAAAGgE/p25aLbbVclE5dQ9JsSeiCyLCUptoTm3WgCNcBGAsYHQ/s797/Roy%2BHartzell_conlon.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="567" data-original-width="797" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6Dz-0uUgqgU/YX7keylp1cI/AAAAAAAAGgE/p25aLbbVclE5dQ9JsSeiCyLCUptoTm3WgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Roy%2BHartzell_conlon.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>We have a year and a location for the photo, but exactly when in 1912 did Hilltop Park play host to a bevy of Olympic athletes? Scouring old newspapers it becomes apparent that the date was June 12.<br /></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LaLTbY4TYaE/YX7rISLyr7I/AAAAAAAAGgQ/_unBwDDB6_g417RBrYoqN9kEXwZeshyMgCNcBGAsYHQ/s517/ny-times-june-13-1912-page-9.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="517" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LaLTbY4TYaE/YX7rISLyr7I/AAAAAAAAGgQ/_unBwDDB6_g417RBrYoqN9kEXwZeshyMgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ny-times-june-13-1912-page-9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>New York Times</i>, June 13, 1912, page 9</span><br /><p><br />The Yankees were out of town that day, nearing the end of a two-week road trip. The club was mired in seventh place in the American League and would eventually finish dead last with a record of 50-102-1. Their .329 winning percentage that season still ranks as their all-time worst.</p><p>Despite the gloom of intermittent rain showers, a sizable crowd flocked to Hilltop Park that June 12th. There they cheered on some 100 U.S. track and field athletes as they participated in a friendly intrasquad meet. It was the final competition for these Olympians as, just two days later, they boarded the Red Star Line’s SS Finland for their journey across the Atlantic to the Summer Games in Stockholm, Sweden. </p><p>Between 5,000 and 10,000 fans attended the benefit event (newspaper estimates varied widely), with receipts to be split between two organizations: the American Olympic Fund, which helped finance the U.S. team; and the Newsboys’ Home Club, a building at Second Avenue and East 11th Street that served as a safe gathering place as well as a second (and sometimes first) home to the city’s large population of newsboys.</p><p>Now let’s take a second look at the “Olympic athletes coming on field” photo where an on-field entourage is marching across the field toward the ballpark’s grandstand. A detail of this picture allows us to identify a few of those individuals leading the parade:</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPqmFL6WQcs/YX7szTG02gI/AAAAAAAAGgY/W0NVdtlGKrwKvGjpiCtDQBy7I-0qe6oeQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1200/A-detail.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="928" data-original-width="1200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GPqmFL6WQcs/YX7szTG02gI/AAAAAAAAGgY/W0NVdtlGKrwKvGjpiCtDQBy7I-0qe6oeQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/A-detail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>The four athletes at left are:</p><p>1) Matt McGrath <br /></p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">Matt McGrath competed in four Olympic Games (1908, 1912, 1920, and 1924), earning a gold and two silver medals in the hammer throw. Dubbed the “Modern Hercules,” his throw of 179 feet 7.1 inches at the Stockholm Games remained the Olympic record for two dozen years. He was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 2006.</p><p>2) Emil Muller</p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">A native of Paterson, New Jersey, Emil Muller burst on the national track and field scene just prior to the 1912 Olympics. The 21-year-old finished 12th in the men’s discus throw and sixth in the discus throw with both hands. As an Olympic event, this latter competition, which combined distances thrown from both the left and right hands, was held in 1912 only.</p><p>3) Ralph Rose</p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">At 6’6” and 250 pounds, Ralph Rose was a giant of a man. His record as a shot-putter was also oversized. He won gold medals in the shot put in the 1904 and 1908 Olympics and a pair of medals in the 1912 Games: silver in shot put and gold in shot put with both hands. Like the discus throw with both hands, this latter event was held just this once in Olympic competition. In the same trio of Olympics, Rose also participated in other events such as discus (winning silver in 1904), hammer throw (bronze in 1904), javelin, and tug-of-war (which was sadly discontinued after the 1920 Summer Games). Rose’s shot put record of 51 feet set in August of 1909 remained unsurpassed for nearly 19 years. Rose died of typhoid fever at the age of 28, just 15 months after the 1912 Olympic Games. He was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1976.</p><p>4) Pat McDonald</p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">Born in Ireland, Pat McDonald earned three medals for the United States in Olympic competition. In 1912 he took home gold in shot put and silver in shot put with both hands. And in 1920, at the age of 42, he won gold in the 56-pound weight throw, the last year this event was held in the Olympics. As such, he set a still-standing record as the oldest Olympic track and field competitor to take home a gold medal. McDonald was the U.S. flag bearer in both the 1920 and 1924 Olympic Games, though he did not compete in the latter competition. He was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 2012.</p><p>And in civilian clothes at right we see:</p><p>5) Matt Halpin</p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">Matt Halpin, who was long affiliated with the New York Athletic Club, managed the U.S. Olympic teams in 1908 (London), 1912 (Stockholm), and 1920 (Antwerp).</p><p>6) James E. Sullivan</p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">A co-founder of the Amateur Athletic Union in 1888, James Sullivan served as the organization’s president from 1906 through 1909. In his honor, the AAU established the James E. Sullivan Award in 1930, annually bestowing the prestigious prize to “the most outstanding amateur athlete in the United States.” He was inducted into the National Track and Field Hall of Fame in 1977.</p><p>7) Gustavus T. Kirby</p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">President of the AAU from 1911 to 1913, Gustavus Kirby was president of the United States Olympic Committee for the 1920 Summer Olympics and the chairman of the USOC for the 1924 Summer Olympics.</p><p>A careful inspection of the wealth of photographs at the Library of Congress’s web site reveals a number of other photos that were clearly taken at the same June 12th event.</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lmRpynF184I/YX7uX4t6fVI/AAAAAAAAGgg/CIO8XrPdQ_QJK_omKhW7n9VqXKRvb195ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/B.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="724" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lmRpynF184I/YX7uX4t6fVI/AAAAAAAAGgg/CIO8XrPdQ_QJK_omKhW7n9VqXKRvb195ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/B.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-12184</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div><p>The above photo was taken at the Hilltop Park grandstand after the athletes and officials completed their march across the field. There they were greeted by Colonel Robert M. Thompson, president of the American Olympic Committee, and a ceremonial exchange of flags took place. Gustavus Kirby presented Thompson with the U.S. flag that flew at White City Stadium during the 1908 Olympics in London, while Thompson handed Kirby a brand new U.S. flag.</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ygVlTPI8YFE/YX7ueY_cElI/AAAAAAAAGgk/_1dIHwFx3_IWYhuKd3PWrcuV9G3M6c0xwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/B-detail.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ygVlTPI8YFE/YX7ueY_cElI/AAAAAAAAGgk/_1dIHwFx3_IWYhuKd3PWrcuV9G3M6c0xwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/B-detail.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>In the foreground of the above detail we see: 1) Ralph Rose; 2) Matt Halpin; 3) James E. Sullivan; 4) Gustavus Kirby (partially obscured); 5) Colonel Robert M. Thompson.</p><p>Three photographs, taken in front of Hilltop Park’s right field wall, capture over two dozen of the U.S. Olympic athletes in attendance. Here are these photos and identifications of the Olympians seen in them:</p><p></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1DFEEi0noo/YX70J81WrLI/AAAAAAAAGhM/3HhozcfCbBIk5r3Vt5to2riXyTypmGfcgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/1.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="742" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n1DFEEi0noo/YX70J81WrLI/AAAAAAAAGhM/3HhozcfCbBIk5r3Vt5to2riXyTypmGfcgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1.jpg" width="400" /><br /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-11775</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br /></div><p>1) Ralph Rose; 2) Pat McDonald; 3) Matt McGrath (name incorrectly spelled on image); 4) Emil Muller (misidentified as [John Paul] Jones); 5) John Nicholson (misidentified as [Abel] Kiviat and misspelled Kaviatt).</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fopNBKQgbfw/YX70O4XhawI/AAAAAAAAGhQ/-_BP2-E9ZNkHOTAOh2cwHbFnxR-iM4cQACNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/2.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fopNBKQgbfw/YX70O4XhawI/AAAAAAAAGhQ/-_BP2-E9ZNkHOTAOh2cwHbFnxR-iM4cQACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-11987</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br /></div><p>6) Jim Rosenberger; 7) Tell Berna; 8) Walter McClure; 9) Harry Grumpelt; 10) Ben Adams; 11) Platt Adams; 12) Harry Babcock; 13) Jim Thorpe; 14) Fred Kelly; 15) George Horine; 16) Hal Heiland.</p><p></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4RGABFSHtMw/YX70S69DiYI/AAAAAAAAGhU/WL00qLoqaxEIbQg-bQ7JU-QuDDq5LfLPACNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/3.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="731" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4RGABFSHtMw/YX70S69DiYI/AAAAAAAAGhU/WL00qLoqaxEIbQg-bQ7JU-QuDDq5LfLPACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/3.jpg" width="400" /><br /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-10947</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span> <br /></div><p>17) Jim Duncan; 18) Jack Eller; 19) Alvah Meyer; 20) John J. Reynolds; 21) Jim Donahue; 22) Fred Allen; 23) Ted Meredith; 24) Ira Davenport; 25) Sam Bellah; 26) Peter Gerhardt; 27) Ira Courtney; 28) Eddie Fitzgerald.</p><p>A few other photos take on that June 12th feature Olympians such as ...<br /></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qFCTsuG9JHU/YX73G40vRmI/AAAAAAAAGhg/9KjWxTo9cQ4mHt7WF1xSU_aBxigG_fBTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/childs-gillis.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="727" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qFCTsuG9JHU/YX73G40vRmI/AAAAAAAAGhg/9KjWxTo9cQ4mHt7WF1xSU_aBxigG_fBTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/childs-gillis.jpg" width="400" /><br /></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-11576</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div><p>Clarence Childs and Simon Gillis<br /><br /></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RfkCCLV6E2M/YX73OKchGVI/AAAAAAAAGhk/7Ss1Z93hDZIOCPfiR4abVM3dnB97NQTAQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/berna.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="740" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RfkCCLV6E2M/YX73OKchGVI/AAAAAAAAGhk/7Ss1Z93hDZIOCPfiR4abVM3dnB97NQTAQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/berna.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-11577</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></div><p>Tell Berna<br /><br /></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yRIlWrvWspw/YX73UWwmbVI/AAAAAAAAGho/a9ew9XyC18QM5L3kiYOVG9OVRqVic7_egCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/gerhardt.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="729" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yRIlWrvWspw/YX73UWwmbVI/AAAAAAAAGho/a9ew9XyC18QM5L3kiYOVG9OVRqVic7_egCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/gerhardt.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-11296</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br /></div><p>Peter Gerhardt<br /><br /></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wcZOKoFAlfw/YX73dk2_AlI/AAAAAAAAGhw/INdFi7SD7qMxLeEFaF2MtxRXyjdqVUwowCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/reynolds.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="736" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wcZOKoFAlfw/YX73dk2_AlI/AAAAAAAAGhw/INdFi7SD7qMxLeEFaF2MtxRXyjdqVUwowCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/reynolds.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-11295</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br /></div><p>John Reynolds<br /><br /></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t4kLYNxBaDA/YX73mAerJnI/AAAAAAAAGh4/0om6LkS_6fIAJgMRtNCERVlo4JiITV7CgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1391/courtney.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1391" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t4kLYNxBaDA/YX73mAerJnI/AAAAAAAAGh4/0om6LkS_6fIAJgMRtNCERVlo4JiITV7CgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/courtney.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: x-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-12196</span></div><div class="separator"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span><br /></div><p>Ira Courtney<br /><br /></p><p>Just over a month after the Hilltop Park event, with the U.S. Olympic team still in Sweden, a pair of baseball games took place in Stockholm. While not a medal sport, the baseball games were considered official Olympic exhibitions. Many of the athletes seen in the above photos took part in these games.<br /></p><p>The first game took place on Monday, July 15, at the Östermalm Athletic Grounds, where the Olympic equestrian events took place. The contest pitted U.S. track-and-field athletes against the Västerås’ Basebollklubb, Sweden’s first baseball club. The star-studded U.S. squad featured eight Olympic medalists: George Bonhag, Dick Byrd, Ira Davenport, George Horine, Frank Irons (1908 medalist), Fred Kelly, Abel Kiviat, and Larry Whitney. Additionally, in an effort to balance the competition, the U.S. supplied the Swedish club with a catcher and some pitchers, including Olympic medalists Ben Adams and Frank Nelson. Incidentally, the umpire for the game was none other than future Baseball Hall of Famer George Wright. Some photos of the game:</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-txw07LgVKh0/YX77eHlpw6I/AAAAAAAAGiE/ZxsD88IM8j0tXJbjH3kY2h1JRTSQmvtVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s644/baseball%2Bgame%2Bphoto%2B1.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="516" data-original-width="644" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-txw07LgVKh0/YX77eHlpw6I/AAAAAAAAGiE/ZxsD88IM8j0tXJbjH3kY2h1JRTSQmvtVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/baseball%2Bgame%2Bphoto%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJkVQw9STaM/YX77eBfFqnI/AAAAAAAAGiI/jOk1BqU3NWok6bvs4X9QNRbDDJyf8d9RACNcBGAsYHQ/s660/baseball%2Bgame%2Bphoto%2B2.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="660" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJkVQw9STaM/YX77eBfFqnI/AAAAAAAAGiI/jOk1BqU3NWok6bvs4X9QNRbDDJyf8d9RACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/baseball%2Bgame%2Bphoto%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LR5Hl7BomYU/YX77eM-24uI/AAAAAAAAGiM/dsaBNARhcIM9tS-Cojry7ozx4vFc4orrACNcBGAsYHQ/s651/baseball%2Bgame%2Bphoto%2B3.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="651" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LR5Hl7BomYU/YX77eM-24uI/AAAAAAAAGiM/dsaBNARhcIM9tS-Cojry7ozx4vFc4orrACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/baseball%2Bgame%2Bphoto%2B3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>On Tuesday, July 16, the second baseball game was played. This one was an all-American affair, with the track-and-field athletes splitting into two teams dubbed the “Finlands” and the “Olympics.”</p><p></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CG6KJfH8KXo/YX78mM9-dyI/AAAAAAAAGiY/RP4mkajDGuIIophGTDSeIQPXRsZm1npKACNcBGAsYHQ/s1539/thorpe.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CG6KJfH8KXo/YX78mM9-dyI/AAAAAAAAGiY/RP4mkajDGuIIophGTDSeIQPXRsZm1npKACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/thorpe.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p></p><p>Track-and-field sensation Jim Thorpe (seen above) was unable to play in the first exhibition baseball game as he was still competing in the decathlon, one of two events (along with the pentathlon) in which he earned gold medals in Stockholm. But he did take the field in the second game for the “Olympics” team, helping them to a 6-3 victory.</p><p>In January of 1913, Thorpe was stripped of his amateur status and of his medals after admitting he played professional minor league baseball in 1909 and 1910. However, nearly 70 years later, the International Olympic Committee restored Thorpe’s amateur status and awarded his family duplicate gold medals, both struck from the original 1912 mold.</p><div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xjnjAVauY3U/YX79KqTvhCI/AAAAAAAAGig/h2UI3__o730Evcpridv95xaHX8uSgE8IwCNcBGAsYHQ/s549/howard%2Bdrew.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="549" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xjnjAVauY3U/YX79KqTvhCI/AAAAAAAAGig/h2UI3__o730Evcpridv95xaHX8uSgE8IwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/howard%2Bdrew.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><p>One final note about those baseball games at the 1912 Olympics: Participating in both of these exhibition contests was Howard Drew (seen above), often acknowledged as the first great Black sprinter. On July 6, Drew qualified for the 100 meter final, finishing first in his heat, but an injury kept him from competing for a medal the following day. No doubt the talented Drew was disappointed, but just over a week later he healed sufficiently so that he was able to play baseball with his Olympic teammates.</p><p>Here are the box scores from these exhibition games, the first baseball games ever played in the history of the Olympics:</p><p></p><div class="separator"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YmOblAt0DSM/YYE1KAtvtsI/AAAAAAAAGiw/RgbjZcNOBno15tqJJLeuGpF2st-qWPbAwCNcBGAsYHQ/box-scores.jpg"><img alt="" data-original-height="591" data-original-width="410" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-YmOblAt0DSM/YYE1KAtvtsI/AAAAAAAAGiw/RgbjZcNOBno15tqJJLeuGpF2st-qWPbAwCNcBGAsYHQ/box-scores.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>For those interested in learning more about the 1912 Olympics, as well as Olympic athletes, events, and baseball games, I heartily recommend visiting <a href="https://www.olympedia.org/" target="_blank">the Olympedia web site</a>.<p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-6668449793097995102021-04-01T08:30:00.002-04:002022-12-13T18:55:15.538-05:00Baseball in “Go, Dog. Go!”<p><br />Published in 1961, author/illustrator P.D. Eastman’s “Go, Dog. Go!” is a classic children’s book in Random House’s successful “Beginners Books” series. If you are not familiar with the book, I suggest you grab a copy or <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iSL0U34BmR4" target="_blank">watch it being read on YouTube</a>.<br /></p>
<p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nG7R6K8wdAM/YGpMieTAOwI/AAAAAAAAGb8/OGVjqMp-AgUs6gAAccdksRb7G46tkIIIACNcBGAsYHQ/s528/godoggo.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nG7R6K8wdAM/YGpMieTAOwI/AAAAAAAAGb8/OGVjqMp-AgUs6gAAccdksRb7G46tkIIIACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/godoggo.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br /></p><p>The plot is rather straightforward. A large number of different-sized, multicolored dogs participate in various activities, eventually ending up at a dog party (a big dog party) in a tree.</p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FAr2MAjCPYs/YGowRSJiSVI/AAAAAAAAGa8/LQCyzYCR01IqEYJcWKpYW_tTn8yjM43dQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1133/page-61.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FAr2MAjCPYs/YGowRSJiSVI/AAAAAAAAGa8/LQCyzYCR01IqEYJcWKpYW_tTn8yjM43dQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/page-61.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br /></p><p>A scene and the accompanying text near the end of the book summarizes the story line quite well:</p><p></p>
<p></p><blockquote>Big dogs, little dogs, red dogs, blue dogs, yellow dogs, green dogs, black dogs, and white dogs are all at a dog party!</blockquote><p></p>
<p>Just over halfway through the book, we see three “dogs at work.”</p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-owmotMVzpFo/YGowWdsVF0I/AAAAAAAAGbA/sq2l1MYX_dY4oIvyNzhidf-ojYkLA_3pACNcBGAsYHQ/s1143/page-34.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-owmotMVzpFo/YGowWdsVF0I/AAAAAAAAGbA/sq2l1MYX_dY4oIvyNzhidf-ojYkLA_3pACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/page-34.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /></p><p>A blue dog is using a shovel, a yellow dog with black spots handles a pickaxe, and a red dog operates a jackhammer.</p><p></p>
<p>On the very next page, Eastman deftly contrasts the dogs at work with three “dogs at play.”</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6_MRcHkEzk/YGowyEfRrhI/AAAAAAAAGbU/iw5BtAGSNSESHICq3AtRkLJ_9oVVqgAnACNcBGAsYHQ/s870/page-35.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6_MRcHkEzk/YGowyEfRrhI/AAAAAAAAGbU/iw5BtAGSNSESHICq3AtRkLJ_9oVVqgAnACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/page-35.jpg" width="400" /></a><p></p><p>Though not explicitly stated in the text, the dogs (one blue, one yellow, and one red) are clearly playing baseball.</p>
<p>Full-well understanding that this is a drawing, not a photograph, and thus the artist may have taken certain liberties in terms of historical accuracy, I decided to see what I could learn about this image.</p>
<p>First, as noted above, the book was published in 1961, so we know the action depicted could not have taken place after that year. Additional clues help further narrow down the possible years:</p>
<ul><li>Chest protectors first appeared in baseball in the mid-1880s.</li><li>The five-sided home plate was not introduced until 1900.</li><li>Roger Bresnahan pioneered the use of shin guards for catchers beginning in 1907.</li></ul><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V3a3PFAF22o/YGoyPIBgunI/AAAAAAAAGbc/Qlhbvg4NXZcRljGe9Dba9emjlfRArjjRgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1300/bresnahan.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V3a3PFAF22o/YGoyPIBgunI/AAAAAAAAGbc/Qlhbvg4NXZcRljGe9Dba9emjlfRArjjRgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bresnahan.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Roger Bresnahan Novelty Cutlery card, c. 1907</span><br /><p></p><p>Thus, it seems most likely that the illustration shows action from a game played sometime between 1907 and 1961. However, we can learn more by noting the following:</p>
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The umpire is not wearing a mask.</li><li>The catcher’s mask is rather rudimentary.</li><li>None of the players are wearing uniforms.</li></ul>
<p>In short, this was almost assuredly an amateur (or perhaps semi-pro) game.</p><p>At what ballpark did the action take place? Unfortunately, P.D. Eastman provides no clues, instead isolating the individuals from their surroundings in order to focus the reader’s attention on the action, rather than the locale.<br /></p>
<p>Additionally, we must not ignore the “elephant in the room”: the fact that the umpire and players are dogs. Clearly this is an unusual circumstance. In fact, one would think that such a rare occurrence would be covered in newspapers of the era.</p>
<p>Alas, I was unable to find any mention of multiple dogs participating in a baseball game during the above time period. However, I did find reference to a dog playing baseball in the <i>Miami News</i> of October 15, 1948:</p>
<p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XBRK8T1TvPk/YGoytMpj8HI/AAAAAAAAGbk/ad_o_ZOI2qwMbxDo7mM5v9UMAlJPiwi5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s928/The_Miami_News_Fri__Oct_15__1948_.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XBRK8T1TvPk/YGoytMpj8HI/AAAAAAAAGbk/ad_o_ZOI2qwMbxDo7mM5v9UMAlJPiwi5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/The_Miami_News_Fri__Oct_15__1948_.jpg" width="400" /></a> </p><p>Clearly, however, this description does not match what we see in P.D. Eastman’s illustration.</p><p></p>
<p>What of the dogs themselves? Can they be identified?</p>
<p>The umpire is a blue dog and the batter is a yellow dog. Both are not wearing collars. A careful review of other pictures in the book does not appear to show any collarless dogs that match the above descriptions. Of course, the dogs may have removed their collars before participating in the game, and thus they may indeed appear elsewhere in the book. But why would they not sport their collars while playing baseball when they are clearly seen wearing them “at work” (see image above), “going around in cars,” and “at a dog party?” I find it more likely that the umpire and catcher either do not appear elsewhere in the book or P.D. Eastman has simply overlooked illustrating the collars.</p>
<p>As for the right-handed batter (a red dog with a yellow collar), we see three such dogs early in the book as they manage to escape from a hedge maze. Additionally, similar dogs appear elsewhere in the book: “on a blue tree,” “in a house on a boat the water,” “going around,” etc.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lvnbojbxCjA/YGo4BF8KXRI/AAAAAAAAGb0/8HM9d8nio3seeGuIEo7ABvC-dPVLbwvoQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/page-11.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lvnbojbxCjA/YGo4BF8KXRI/AAAAAAAAGb0/8HM9d8nio3seeGuIEo7ABvC-dPVLbwvoQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/page-11.jpg" width="400" /></a><p></p><p>In short, there is little hope of identifying the umpire, catcher, or batter.</p>
<p>Finally, while the umpire wears a traditional black cap, what can be made of the caps worn by the players? Both the catcher’s red cap and the batter’s blue cap appear to have no distinctive features, no pinstripes, and no team logos. All we can say for certain is that they are indeed baseball caps, not party hats.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ucMOi2T4kE/YGoy7DAIePI/AAAAAAAAGbo/RHeIWbUnSV882HsbT_3lGwKcBo3L4n_9wCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/page-62-63.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2ucMOi2T4kE/YGoy7DAIePI/AAAAAAAAGbo/RHeIWbUnSV882HsbT_3lGwKcBo3L4n_9wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/page-62-63.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /> <p></p>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-13511771627648279602021-03-26T16:25:00.001-04:002021-03-26T16:25:08.654-04:00Why Didn't Christie's Research This Photo of Babe Ruth?<p><br>In December 2020, Christie’s offered the following photograph as part of its auction titled <a href="https://www.christies.com/en/auction/auction-19475-nyr" target="_blank">“Home Plate: A Private Collection of Important Baseball Memorabilia.”</a></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mt4nfO363u8/YF48F-FYUZI/AAAAAAAAGaA/zvBo1EF5Ku8cAoLkkHGO20BoBG5RU3UswCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/photo.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mt4nfO363u8/YF48F-FYUZI/AAAAAAAAGaA/zvBo1EF5Ku8cAoLkkHGO20BoBG5RU3UswCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/photo.jpg" width="400" /></a><p>The <a href="https://www.christies.com/lot/lot-very-fine-babe-ruth-boston-red-sox-6296502" target="_blank">lot description accompanying the photograph</a> reads as follows:</p><p></p><blockquote><p>Very Fine Babe Ruth Boston Red Sox Photograph c.1918 (PSA/DNA Type I)</p>
<p>Unique and striking sepia tone 7 ½" x 9 ½" original image picturing Ruth standing on the field with his Red Sox teammates in full uniform. Ruth is standing at center with another gentleman in non-MLB uniform who appears to be receiving a presentational trophy from the Babe. Surface wrinkling to the front with corner crease at top left and some small tape residue at bottom edge. Mounted on its original linen backing from photo album mount. Encapsulated by PSA/DNA (Type I): VG</p>
<p>7 ½ x 9 ½ in.</p></blockquote><p></p>
<p>Alas, this is all the famed auction house had to say about the photo. While I would not expect them to write a 1,000 word treatise on the image, it might have been revealing (and frankly add to the value of the photograph) if they had done just a little research.</p>
<p>Since they dropped the ball, I figured I’d pick it up. Here’s what I found out about this wonderful photograph.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Red Sox Players Pictured</h2>
<p>Certainly it is obvious that the player fourth from right is Boston Red Sox star Babe Ruth. Joining him in the photo are six of his teammates, each wearing lightly pinstriped uniforms with “RED SOX” emblazoned across their jersey fronts. A quick look at the <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/uniforms.asp?league=AL&city=Boston&lowYear=1916&highYear=1919&sort=year&increment=9" target="_blank">National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum’s online exhibit “Dressed to the Nines”</a> reveals that during Ruth’s tenure with the club, the Red Sox wore uniforms such as these on the road from 1916 through 1919.</p>
<p>The Red Sox of this era featured a number of stars, many of whom are readily recognizable in this photo. </p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60_bZhH45QI/YF49zlqb9NI/AAAAAAAAGaI/BLE9jei4NY4Vv2mFggOAAPF7hJZKf-MVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s735/mcinnis.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-60_bZhH45QI/YF49zlqb9NI/AAAAAAAAGaI/BLE9jei4NY4Vv2mFggOAAPF7hJZKf-MVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/mcinnis.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Stuffy McInnis</span><p>The individual third from left is Stuffy McInnis, once a member of Connie Mack’s celebrated “$100,000 infield” and arguably one of the greatest fielding first basemen in baseball history. In 1921, he made just one error in 152 games at first base, a record that was not topped until Steve Garvey’s errorless season of 1984.</p><p></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QWvgr4wdTJs/YF493wZyoUI/AAAAAAAAGaM/lya0q6UMu-QpnC3HruhP2frUiX7lF-rLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s978/scott.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QWvgr4wdTJs/YF493wZyoUI/AAAAAAAAGaM/lya0q6UMu-QpnC3HruhP2frUiX7lF-rLwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/scott.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Everett Scott</span><p>At far right is Everett Scott, a great shortstop of the era and the man who whose record for most consecutive games played (1,307) was not eclipsed until Lou Gehrig did so in 1933.</p><p></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RzKw3jjZuHw/YF497DycInI/AAAAAAAAGaQ/MjB_oOsPP4Ujud3Ahm0cxvHaVUUIDYEdwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1618/schang.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RzKw3jjZuHw/YF497DycInI/AAAAAAAAGaQ/MjB_oOsPP4Ujud3Ahm0cxvHaVUUIDYEdwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/schang.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Wally Schang</span><p>Just to the left of Scott is Wally Schang, often cited as the best catcher of his day. In 1916, Schang became the first player to homer from both sides of the plate in one game. Today, his .393 career on base percentage remains higher than every other Hall of Fame catcher except for all-time greats Mickey Cochrane and Josh Gibson.</p><p></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zzSiD_nkDBk/YF49-wu-V3I/AAAAAAAAGaU/vZNvOLc2lPQsSytseMHdgy2IkVfxLsqSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s646/vitt.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zzSiD_nkDBk/YF49-wu-V3I/AAAAAAAAGaU/vZNvOLc2lPQsSytseMHdgy2IkVfxLsqSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/vitt.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Ossie Vitt</span><p>Third from right is third baseman Ossie Vitt, a veteran of seven seasons with the Detroit Tigers who, like McInnis, Scott, and Schang, had earned praise as a slick fielder.</p><p></p>
<p>As Vitt didn’t join the Red Sox until his January 1919 trade to the club, and Ruth was famously sold to the Yankees just over 11 months later, it is clear that the photo must have been taken sometime that year.</p>
<p>Looking through Boston’s roster for 1919 and comparing player names to known images, the other two lesser-known Red Sox can be identified. At far left is backup outfielder Frank Gilhooly, who was in his final major league season. And just to the left of Ruth is Norm McNeil, who played just five big league games, but could boast of having roomed with Babe Ruth during the last few months of the Bambino’s Red Sox career.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Others Pictured</h2>
<p>Two other men can be seen in the photo. One stands second from left, behind two members of the Red Sox. The other is at center, holding on to a silver cup with Ruth, and wearing a jersey with letters that are partially obscured. Certainly the top word is “BALTIMORE,” but all we can see of the bottom word(s) is “DOO” or “DOC.” Additionally, in front of the men there are two young girls holding a bouquet of flowers.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Identifying of the Photograph</h2>
<p>Since the ballpark does not match any big league stadiums of the era and the “Baltimore” uniform is clearly not from a major league club, I suspected this was an exhibition game. Searching through digitized newspapers from 1919 for keywords such as “Babe Ruth,” “silver cup,” “Baltimore,” and “flowers,” I came across an article in the <i>Baltimore Sun</i> of September 8, 1919. Its headlines read:</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sfIPTRmaUUs/YF4-JbzDjfI/AAAAAAAAGag/Vt1Ar9Hudf8AH2ait9RTihbFWvleoqyIACNcBGAsYHQ/s549/headlines.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sfIPTRmaUUs/YF4-JbzDjfI/AAAAAAAAGag/Vt1Ar9Hudf8AH2ait9RTihbFWvleoqyIACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/headlines.jpg" width="400" /></a><p>The article goes on to cover an in-season exhibition game played September 7, 1919, between the Red Sox and the Baltimore Dry Dock & Shipping Company baseball club of the Delaware Shipyard Baseball League. No doubt the lettering on the jersey of the fellow next to Ruth reads “BALTIMORE DRY DOCKS.”
</p><p>With the action taking place at Baltimore’s Oriole Park, the Red Sox topped the Dry Docks, 10-6. Ruth thrilled the crowd by clouting a pair of homers, scoring all the way from first base on McInnis’s infield hit, and taking the mound for the final two innings. The final paragraph of the story completes the picture:</p>
<p></p><blockquote>Before the game, Babe Ruth, acting as spokesman, presented the Dry Docks team with a silver cup for winning the pennant in the Shipyard League, and a pair of little girls presented a bunch of flowers to Manager Sam Frock.</blockquote><p></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dhK38tZQ3dA/YF4-OvMsloI/AAAAAAAAGas/C4xq9J3xZPEd2b7pn9RXvfnAHQhLdOYXwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/frock.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dhK38tZQ3dA/YF4-OvMsloI/AAAAAAAAGas/C4xq9J3xZPEd2b7pn9RXvfnAHQhLdOYXwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/frock.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sam Frock</span><p>Indeed, that’s former big league pitcher Sam Frock receiving the silver cup from Ruth.</p><p></p>
<p>As for the other man pictured, take a close look at the object to his right, seen just behind Gilhooley. It’s a large megaphone, suggesting the man is Oriole Park public address announcer Lefty Shields. Just one year earlier, Ruth had been part of an All-Star team that played the Dry Docks at Oriole Park on November 10, 1918. According the following day’s <i>Baltimore Sun</i>, “the defeat was the first in ten games for the Dry Docks, and Lefty Shields, their announcer, was so heart-broken that he smashed his megaphone.” Looks like he got a new one!<br /></p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe Ruth’s Phenomenal Season</h2>
<p>When he posed for this photograph, Ruth was nearing the end of an incredible season. Fans coming to Oriole Park that day saw the Babe standing at the cusp of history. Just two days earlier, Ruth had pushed his regular season home run total to 25, matching what was thought to be the record set two decades earlier by Washington’s Buck Freeman. While the pair of homers Ruth hit in Baltimore did not count toward his regular season total, the next day, facing the Yankees, the Bambino blasted his 26th homer to pass Freeman’s mark. However, Ruth was still one shy of the true single-season record of 27 home runs hit by Chicago’s Ned Williamson in 1884. This latter mark had been largely discounted by the media, the fans, and Ruth himself, due to the fact that Williamson was materially aided by the incredibly short porches at Chicago’s diminutive Lakefront Park: 196 feet to right field and just 180 to left. No matter, Ruth would finish the season with 29 circuit clouts, making him the undisputed home run champion.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Auction Winner<br /></h2>
<p>Whoever purchased this photo may never know its full story. However, for the $11,875 they paid for the lot (that’s nearly $2,000 more than the Red Sox paid Ruth for his services in 1919!), I sure hope they somehow find out the rich history behind the picture.</p>
<br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-43463557606512373602021-03-25T11:40:00.000-04:002021-03-25T11:40:51.333-04:00The Federal League in Film - Part II: "Hearts and Diamonds"<p></p><p>Last month I posted about a new discovery: <a href="https://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2021/02/the-federal-league-in-film-part-i-jim.html" target="_blank">footage from a Federal League ball game between Buffalo and Brooklyn on July 6, 1915</a>. Prior to this find, there was only one known example of moving images from a Federal League game: action preserved in a silent movie titled “Hearts and Diamonds.”
</p><p>This latter film, shot during the summer of 1914 and released in late September of that year, starred John Bunny, a famous, beloved, but today much-forgotten comedian who died from kidney disease just half a year after the movie opened. On April 27, 1915, the day after Bunny’s untimely death, the <i>New York Times</i> wrote: “Wherever movies are exhibited, and that is everywhere, Bunny had his public. It is perfectly safe to say that no other camera actor was as popular in this country.”</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L49-BVqsEZM/YFvLvQyLYOI/AAAAAAAAGYM/uyTLASoIeqgLsAdZUWwl_6eB8iqCN7uywCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/John%2BBunny%2Bat%2B1913%2BWorld%2BSeries.jpeg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L49-BVqsEZM/YFvLvQyLYOI/AAAAAAAAGYM/uyTLASoIeqgLsAdZUWwl_6eB8iqCN7uywCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/John%2BBunny%2Bat%2B1913%2BWorld%2BSeries.jpeg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />John Bunny (right) and </span><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">William Chase Temple </span>attend the 1913 World Series at Shibe Park</span></p>
<p>Bunny was a fervent baseball fan. He attended Game Four of the 1913 World Series, his appearance causing the crowd to cheer wildly as he walked to his front row seats at Philadelphia’s Shibe Park. Sitting next to Bunny that day was William Chase Temple, the part-owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates who two decades earlier had established the Temple Cup, an early World Championship series played from 1894 through 1897. Interested readers may wish to take a look at <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2017/10/henry-sandhams-painting-of-1894-temple.html" target="_blank">my earlier blog post about Henry Sandham’s painting of the 1894 Temple Cup Series</a>.</p>
<p>Produced by Vitagraph Studios in Brooklyn, “Hearts and Diamonds” is a rather uninspired two-reeler that transparently plods its way from scene to scene to provide Bunny a couple opportunities to perform his comic shtick. Those interested in watching the movie can find it on KINO International’s two-DVD compilation of early baseball movies titled “Reel Baseball.” In past posts, I have discussed a couple of other films from this treasure trove.</p><ul><li><a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2013/03/how-office-boy-saw-ball-game.html" target="_blank">A 1906 short titled “How the Office Boy Saw the Ball Game</a> </li><li><a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2020/09/an-illustrated-guide-to-headin-home.html" target="_blank">Babe Ruth’s memorable 1920 silent movie, “Headin’ Home”</a></li></ul><p>The plot of “Hearts and Diamonds” revolves around the widower Tupper and his attempt to woo the wealthy Miss Rachel Whipple, an ardent baseball fan. After attending a baseball game with Miss Whipple, Tupper finds to his dismay that what she really loves is baseball players, not fans. Tupper’s chance meeting with pitching star Matty Christheson (get it?) results in a plan: the widower will put together a baseball nine to challenge Matty’s club, with the latter player assuring Tupper “I’ll see that you win.” This leads to the main comic sequence on the ball field that ultimately results in Tupper’s inept team completing a ninth-inning comeback, thanks to the widower’s improbably home run. This victory fails to bring about Miss Whipple’s full affections, but Tupper lucks into a fortuitous rescue of the spinster, saving her from the clutches of Jack Zinn, an insane baseball player who had just escaped from a mental institution. This heroism does the trick and Tupper and Whipple embrace. A rather unnecessary side plot running throughout the movie (you have to fill 30 minutes somehow) involves Tupper’s two daughters and the young men with whom they elope.</p>
<p>How popular was John Bunny? Well, after the initial introduction of his character, the intertitles generaly
dispensed with the charade of using his character’s name, instead simply referring to him as “Bunny.”</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kd8bVVi8prc/YFvN2yZqO3I/AAAAAAAAGYU/18Q1YiGtUdUeJjkIeX-IEW8lvJIovePKwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/21-13.tiff"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kd8bVVi8prc/YFvN2yZqO3I/AAAAAAAAGYU/18Q1YiGtUdUeJjkIeX-IEW8lvJIovePKwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/21-13.tiff" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Beyond Bunny, the film’s only other actor of note is Flora Finch who plays the role of the wealthy Miss Rachel Whipple. Bunny and Finch worked together in anywhere from 100 to 160 films (source differ) during the early 1910s.<br /></p>
<p>The first baseball scene of interest occurs about six minutes into the film when Miss Whipple’s automobile arrives at the ballpark. The baseball action, as we will see, was shot at Brooklyn’s Washington Park, a brand new, steel and concrete stadium, which replaced the old wooden park (also known as Washington Park) that stood on the same lot. Here we see the exterior of the park:</p><p></p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxYP0rkPkOZUdfK2N-BLba6ohM7ncnOOmoyZWsOyE8uHgGMLjIqK4XiIc09B8uwWz_aFLdTnMdqTOCzAoACrA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><p><p>I am aware of very few pictures showing the new Washington Park from the outside. Here’s one that shows the park as it was being built. Comparing the photo to the movie still, one can see the same ticket booth as well as some other matching features.</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9dOjHx26QPI/YFvO7ZT6ozI/AAAAAAAAGYs/FS3hCdYdpgULNYa50EiaDTSpnvRb3kj8QCNcBGAsYHQ/s750/exterior%2Bphoto%2Bof%2Bwashington%2Bpark.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9dOjHx26QPI/YFvO7ZT6ozI/AAAAAAAAGYs/FS3hCdYdpgULNYa50EiaDTSpnvRb3kj8QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/exterior%2Bphoto%2Bof%2Bwashington%2Bpark.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p>
</p><p>About seven minutes into the movie we see Miss Whipple in her grandstand seat. Tupper sits down in the same row and eventually moves his way right next to her.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vtMhp3UlAIw/YFvPZFJDjhI/AAAAAAAAGY0/q58Di8aIexIATDegWAnAswJAQYMCiekMQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/07-06.tiff"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vtMhp3UlAIw/YFvPZFJDjhI/AAAAAAAAGY0/q58Di8aIexIATDegWAnAswJAQYMCiekMQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/07-06.tiff" width="400" /></a><p>
</p><p>This scene was also shot at Washington Park, home of the Federal League Brooklyn Tip-Tops. According to an article in the <i>Brooklyn Daily Eagle</i> of July 22, 1914:</p><p></p><blockquote>Yesterday morning [Brooklyn Tip-Tops] Manager [Bill] Bradley had his charges out bright and early at Washington Park and put them through a long hitting practice preparatory to opening the all-important series with Chicago, which begins this afternoon. Many a ball was lost during the workout in being driven over the right field wall, to the edification of the several hundred movie actors and actresses who sat in the stand waiting for a scenario in which they were showing to get under way.</blockquote>
<p>Thus it appears that most of the scenes of fans in the grandstand were shot on July 21, 1914, an open date for the Brooklyn Tip-Tops.</p><p>The Federal League game action takes place next and there are basically four distinct sequences that are presented.
</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">First Real Game Sequence</h2><p>
</p><p></p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dx3tmrAwmSl2nmI6jDy1W6aUyZ-WVDP3Meb0DnBQI5V1JmKU1dIMPd1RQl8v2XVzydob7yaJgwNc6ZS21plRw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><p><p>The first real game sequence takes place about 7½ minutes into the film. Here we see a high wall in right field, the scoreboard in center, and the bleachers in left: all perfectly matching the configuration of Brooklyn’s Washington Park in both 1914 and 1915. And the large advertisement on the right field wall (seen prominently later in the movie) reads “Ward’s Tip-Top Bread,” the company run by club owner Robert Ward.</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n25dnwEc0Hw/YFvRssXc-JI/AAAAAAAAGZE/5vwrSsW9Vlw0v3eL5FPWJb9pVSBUFZASQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/20-54.tiff"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n25dnwEc0Hw/YFvRssXc-JI/AAAAAAAAGZE/5vwrSsW9Vlw0v3eL5FPWJb9pVSBUFZASQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20-54.tiff" width="400" /></a><p></p><p>While the quality of the footage is rather poor, a careful review of the game action shows a right-handed pitcher with a dark cap and all-dark stockings delivering the ball with no men on base. A right-handed batter with a light-colored cap and two-tone stockings grounds the ball up the middle. The second baseman goes to his left, makes a nice pick-up, fires to first, and apparently retires the batter-runner.</p><p>What can be made of the uniform information? First, the home club Brooklyn Tip-Tops wore uniforms with dark caps and all dark stockings in 1914. (Actually, the stockings were dark blue with a red stripe, but on film the difference between these colors cannot be discerned so the stockings simply appear dark.) Thus, Brooklyn is the team in the field in this first sequence.</p>
<p>Second, we know that the road club is the one that wore the light colored cap and two-toned stockings. As it turns out, five of the eight Federal League clubs wore such uniforms on the road in 1914: <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/detail_page.asp?fileName=fl_1914_chicago.gif&Entryid=1938" target="_blank">Chicago</a>, <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/detail_page.asp?fileName=fl_1914_indianapolis.gif&Entryid=1939" target="_blank">Indianapolis</a>, <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/detail_page.asp?fileName=fl_1914_kansascity.gif&Entryid=1940" target="_blank">Kansas City</a>, <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/detail_page.asp?fileName=fl_1914_pittsburgh.gif&Entryid=1941" target="_blank">Pittsburgh</a>, and <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/detail_page.asp?fileName=fl_1914_stlouis.gif&Entryid=1942" target="_blank">St. Louis</a>.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Second Real Game Sequence</h2><p>
After a cut to the stands, action returns to the field, where it appears
the sides have now switched, Brooklyn at bat and the visitors in the
field. </p><p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxE74G0uqmRz4B8W3GQDymllhX3QBMbEhJ4VAAtlHeY7qsfdHnawOdlBYVYQUY7L9w91SjswgAf82LBYLbk2A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><p><p>The pitcher (a right-hander) wears a light-colored cap and two-tone stockings and the batter (a lefty) wears a dark cap and all-dark stockings. Two pitches are delivered in this sequence, the batter taking the first one and swinging and missing at the second.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Third Real Game Sequence</h2>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xncxqhOmLFE/YFvS8tA8V5I/AAAAAAAAGZQ/Lo3TPEMCLugjDtxZLfqL2SYwCGXcpbSlwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/08-20.tiff"></a><p></p><p>After yet another cut to the actors in the stands in which Tupper gets
into a brief fight with another fan, a third on-field sequence takes
place. </p><p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzVPR66N6Zvj6R1dk7RnQoP0ZLZPoq94I0DhALn4ziJpdE9n8xiYmK_Vu_au2QoaLKVzSYq7MB7MSAAIY-vrQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><p><p>As with the second sequence, the pitcher wears a light cap, but now the batter (in a dark cap) is right-handed and there is a runner is on first base. We see three pitches delivered. On the third pitch the runner on first takes off for second, but apparently the pitch was called a ball, and the batter trots to first.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Fourth Real Game Sequence</h2><p>
Yet another cut to the grandstand is followed by a fourth sequence on the field.</p><p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxngBHWK9Ah4ENawORLAyvcfyy8BdZRepbezLiS3mJF7xFaIQlhuXJq1_DZ3uoAz6jiMekesH90g_e0w6xM1Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></p><p>In the movie clip above we see a left-handed batter with a light cap bats against a right-handed pitcher with a dark cap. So we’ve returned to Brooklyn in the field and the visitors at bat. The batter connects for a hit to left field. There are runners on first and third and both score as the batter-runner sprints toward third base. However, after a brief cut back to the grandstand, we see the batter-runner head back to second, apparently changing his mind about going for a triple.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Fictional Game Footage<br /></h2>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8vVQCEaDd2o/YFvUu0C0mvI/AAAAAAAAGZw/ekRiyz6kqQU7cby7kc7hZa6QH2kxoh1HwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/23-48.tiff"></a><p></p><p>About ten minutes later, the next in-park sequences take place. This is the scene in which Tupper and his team play baseball against Matty Christheson’s club. While the actor who portrays Christheson is on the mound, the rest of his team is apparently comprised of members of the Tip-Tops.</p><p>At one point during this fictional game, we see Bunny coaching first base:<br /></p><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxqATW7KEm11Jtj4lpq-f_qggIWxzG32BMY9vOZJfDrJBizzFVXqIwJDB-a51XVdJi-c3_IfLK3kQ34eMfwnQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><p><p>In the background we can see the bottom of the center field scoreboard. Here’s a detail from the clip above:<br /></p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k_U2wW6VJLU/YFvWjQqIjsI/AAAAAAAAGZ4/Dbrn-YKQ8f81bSe12RWWYjXm863eMy_9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/23-48-detail.tif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-k_U2wW6VJLU/YFvWjQqIjsI/AAAAAAAAGZ4/Dbrn-YKQ8f81bSe12RWWYjXm863eMy_9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/23-48-detail.tif" width="400" /></a><p></p><p>Though a bit difficult to discern, careful review of the footage shows the following partial line scores:</p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">NEW YORK 2 0 2 0 0<br />PITTSBURGH 0 1 0 0 0</span></p><p><span style="font-family: courier;">CHICAGO 0 0<br />NEW YORK 0 0</span></p>
<p>Also visible at the very bottom of the scoreboard are the words “ST. LOUIS HERE” with some undecipherable words that follow. This suggests that the next club scheduled to visit Brooklyn would be the Federal League St. Louis Terriers.</p>
<p>A review of big league game scores from 1914 reveals only one date in which the partial line scores on the scoreboard match up with actual game line scores: Saturday, July 25, 1914. On that day, the Giants beat the Pirates 4-2, with Christy Mathewson (yes, the real Christy Mathewson) earning the victory. The full line score was:</p>
<p><span style="font-family: courier;">NEW YORK 2 0 2 0 0 0 0 0 X<br />PITTSBURGH 0 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0</span></p>
<p>And the White Sox topped the Yankees 1-0 (in 13 innings) with the following line score:</p>
<p><span style="font-family: courier;">CHICAGO 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1<br />NEW YORK 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0</span></p>
<p>Additionally, the next series that Brooklyn would host started two days later, July 27, against the Federal League St. Louis Terriers.</p>
<p>So far, all signs point to the fictional game being filmed at Washington Park on July 25. But the Tip-Tops hosted a doubleheader against Chicago that day. How could they make time for a movie shoot? No. It is more likely that the Tupper vs. Christeson game was shot the following day (an off-day for Brooklyn), with the partial line scores from the previous day’s games left on the scoreboard as they were. </p>
<p>With filming of the fans taking place on July 21 and the fictional game most likely on July 26, it seems likely that the real game action was shot at around the same time. Brooklyn’s schedule during their 15-game home stand in late July reads: Chicago July 22, 23, 24, and 25 (doubleheader); St. Louis July 27, 29, 30 (doubleheader); Indianapolis July 31, August 1, 3; Kansas City August 4, 5, 6.</p>
<p>Now, of the four real game sequences detailed above, only the final one provides enough details to reasonably find an exact match to a play. As a review, a lefty visiting batter faces a right-handed visiting pitcher with men on first and third. The batter hits a double to left, scoring both runners.</p>
<p>I began “fishing” by looking in box scores for any game in the home stand noted above in which a lefty visiting batter had at least one double and two RBI. I found that happened three times:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>
July 23: Chicago’s Dutch Zwilling had a double and two RBI</li><li>July 25 (game two of doubleheader): Chicago’s Jim Stanley had a double and two RBI</li><li>August 4: Kansas City’s Duke Kenworthy had a double and 2 RBI</li></ul>
<p>Next I examined these three possibilities closer. I eliminated Dutch Zwilling’s double on July 23, because he also had a home run that day. This means that at least one of his RBI came on his homer, and thus he couldn’t have driven in two runs with his double. And while Duke Kenworthy’s double in the August 4th game did indeed score two runners, one of these runners was injured at the plate. But in the footage, we see both runners score without incident. This leaves only Jim Stanley’s double of July 25th’s second game. Here’s the play-by-play of the top of the sixth inning as reported in the <i>Brooklyn Standard Union</i> the following day. With Brooklyn’s right-handed pitcher Happy Finneran on the mound ...<br /></p><p></p><blockquote>[Harry] Fritz struck out. [Jack] Farrell was hit by a pitched ball. [Mike] Prendergast singled to right. [Austin] Walsh singled to right, scoring Farrell. Stanley doubled to left, scoring Pendergast and Walsh.</blockquote><p></p>
<p>The scenario matches perfectly with the fourth sequence that we see in “Hearts and Diamonds.”</p>
<p>What about the third sequence? Did it occur in either game of July 25? Recapping the details: With a runner on first, a right-handed visiting pitcher walked a right-handed Brooklyn batter. Unsurprisingly, this not-too-uncommon scenario occurred twice that day. We are seeing one of the following two instances:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>
In the first game, in the bottom of the fifth, with Grover Land on first and Tom McGuire pitching, Tom Seaton walked.</li><li>In the second game, in the bottom of the fourth, with Steve Evans on first and Mike Pendergast pitching, Solly Hofman walked.
</li></ul><p>In hindsight, and from a practical point of view, it makes sense that Vitagraph would film on a day in which a doubleheader was scheduled. Why spend a day shooting just one game, when you can spend the same day shooting two?</p>
<p>In summary, “Hearts and Diamonds” featured three types of baseball footage, all shot at Brooklyn’s Washington Park: Scenes of fans in the stands, scenes of a fictional game, and scenes of a real game. Most, if not all, of the fan shots were taken on July 21, 1914, an open date on Brooklyn’s schedule. The fictional game footage was almost certainly shot on July 26, 1914, another opening date for the Tip-Tops. And the real game footage was filmed during the Chicago vs. Brooklyn doubleheader of July 25, 1914.</p><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-9609003438816690022021-02-26T11:25:00.008-05:002021-10-03T15:07:13.591-04:00The Federal League in Film - Part I: Jim Bluejacket in "The Stolen Voice"<p><br />At the southern tip of Aruba, in the town of San Nicolas, you’ll find a small baseball stadium called Joe Laveist Sport Park. Beyond the right field wall, just a 450-foot blast down the first base line, is Jim Bluejacket Straat. One block long, the street was named for a former big league pitcher whose name was actually William Lincoln Smith, though he played under the name of Jim Bluejacket</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3zAaH0rsDa4/YDhIv2r62NI/AAAAAAAAGVw/n8-woYtnsrER02Z2-CpLGYh0JR4lebU6ACNcBGAsYHQ/s415/bluejacketstreet.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3zAaH0rsDa4/YDhIv2r62NI/AAAAAAAAGVw/n8-woYtnsrER02Z2-CpLGYh0JR4lebU6ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bluejacketstreet.jpg" width="400" /></a><p></p><p>The strapping, six-foot-two-inch pitcher from Oklahoma started playing pro baseball in the first decade of the 20th century and spent parts of three seasons in the big leagues, tossing for the Brooklyn Tip Tops of the Federal League from August of 1914 through the end of 1915, and joining the Cincinnati Reds the next year for a brief three-game stint. Sources differ regarding whether he was part Shawnee or part Cherokee, but all agree that he was on his way to a promising pitching career. Then trouble with the bottle led to his downfall.</p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_Kkhiiov8Q/YDhI9Oa5SzI/AAAAAAAAGV0/0DUAY1_BBvor3LJyAR4a2kruz2FhB5PggCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/3b44987r.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e_Kkhiiov8Q/YDhI9Oa5SzI/AAAAAAAAGV0/0DUAY1_BBvor3LJyAR4a2kruz2FhB5PggCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/3b44987r.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Jim Bluejacket with the Brooklyn Tip Tops in 1914<br /></span></p><p>Those interested in the full story of Jim Bluejacket, and how it is that he ended up living and working in Aruba, should read the <a href="https://sabr.org/bioproj/person/jim-bluejacket" target="_blank">excellent bio written by Bill Lamb</a>, a longtime member of the Society for American Baseball Research (SABR) and the 2019 winner of the organization’s prestigious <a href="https://sabr.org/latest/sabr-49-bill-lamb-selected-as-bob-davids-award-winner" target="_blank">Bob Davids Award</a>.</p><p>It seemed that this humble street in Aruba was all that Jim Bluejacket left behind, the last faint reminder of a baseball “what if” story. But recently I came across another reminder of the pitcher, this time in the form of a motion picture “what if” story.</p><p>In 1915, World Film Corporation released a four reel silent movie titled “The Stolen Voice.” You can watch a <a href="https://www.eastman.org/stolen-voice" target="_blank">beautifully restored version of the hour-long movie at the Eastman Museum web site</a>.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xOYK0A3VQQE/YDhJcyyNnBI/AAAAAAAAGWA/h23LndL1QRAGBfLMltHhbX8YUiS74oUlwCNcBGAsYHQ/s848/moving%2Bpicture%2Bworld%2Bjuly%2B31%2B1915.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xOYK0A3VQQE/YDhJcyyNnBI/AAAAAAAAGWA/h23LndL1QRAGBfLMltHhbX8YUiS74oUlwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/moving%2Bpicture%2Bworld%2Bjuly%2B31%2B1915.jpe" width="400" /></a><p></p><p>The story is a bit complex, but here’s my attempt at a brief synopsis:</p><p style="margin-left: 40px; text-align: left;">In New York City, a famous operatic singer, Gerald D’Orville (sometimes spelled Dorville), meets the rich Belle Borden. Borden already has a suitor, one Dr. Luigi Brosio, but she turns all her attention to D’Orville and this makes the doctor jealous. Meanwhile, a pretty shop girl named Marguerite Randall also greatly admires D’Orville. Eventually, Brosio uses his hypnotic powers to cause D’Orville to lose his voice and thus his livelihood. D’Orville goes to Europe for treatment, but nothing comes of this. When he returns to New York, he is broke and must look for work. Turned down wherever he goes, D’Orville hits upon the idea of acting in silent films, where his inability to speak should be of no consequence. Dick Leslie, an old friend whom D’Orville had helped years earlier, is now a successful movie director and hires the desperate actor. By a great stroke of luck, Leslie also hires Randall the very same day. D’Orville and Randall become popular movie stars and fall in love, but D’Orville is reluctant to ask for Randall’s hand in marriage because of his disability. One day, the now-married Borden and Brosio pass by a movie theater where one of D’Orville’s pictures is playing. Brosio is reluctant, but Borden, unaware of her husband’s evil spell, insists they go in. The film, titled “The Unseen Power,” is about hypnotism and during a scene in which D’Orville puts Randall in a trance, Brosio has a heart attack and dies. Meanwhile, D’Orville happens to be at a baseball game and an exciting moment occurs at precisely the same time that Brosio drops dead. D’Orville rises to cheer and is surprised when he makes a sound. Overjoyed, he telephones Randall, asks her to marry him, and she gladly accepts.</p><p>Seriously, I really did try to keep it short. Though the plot was terribly convoluted and implausible—the hypnotism from afar was especially ridiculous—I found the movie to be surprisingly entertaining and fun. I recommend it.</p><p>A few words about the actors in the movie before I delve into the baseball scene at the end and its connection to Jim Bluejacket:</p><p>Gerald D’Orville was played by <b>Robert Warwick</b>. Coincidentally, Warwick was trained as an opera singer, but eventually moved into a career in motion pictures. With nearly half a century in movies and television (he debuted in film in 1914 and last appeared on TV in 1962), his acting career was easily the most successful among those cast in the “The Stolen Voice.” Though he worked in some 250 productions, he may be best remembered for his role as the Shakespearean drunk, Charlie Waterman, in Nicholas Ray’s “In a Lonely Place” (1950).</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nVngNCt12Cs/YDhOj73O9eI/AAAAAAAAGWI/WJc6AkZacLgUah_G7MHPnTuBY9Rdcdf-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s598/robert%2Bwarwick%2Bin%2Ba%2Blonely%2Bplace.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nVngNCt12Cs/YDhOj73O9eI/AAAAAAAAGWI/WJc6AkZacLgUah_G7MHPnTuBY9Rdcdf-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/robert%2Bwarwick%2Bin%2Ba%2Blonely%2Bplace.jpg" width="400" /></a><p></p><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Gloria Graham, Humphrey Bogart, and Robert Warwick in “In a Lonely Place” (1950)</span></p><p>Marguerite Randall was portrayed by <b>Frances Nelson</b>. Her career on film lasted from 1913 to 1921, with 1915 her busiest year as she had roles in 19 films including “The Stolen Voice.” In an eerie echo of their scripted rise to fame as an acting duo in “The Stolen Voice,” Nelson and Warwick appeared in two others films together: “The Sins of Society” (1915) and “Human Driftwood” (1916).</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hNE7EuChXU/YDhOqBxuHrI/AAAAAAAAGWM/zgVfUs0n3yw0AY7JyBxQGV7wSc7ee5FxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/human-driftwood.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_hNE7EuChXU/YDhOqBxuHrI/AAAAAAAAGWM/zgVfUs0n3yw0AY7JyBxQGV7wSc7ee5FxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/human-driftwood.jpg" width="400" /></a><p>Dr. Brosio was played by <b>George Majeroni</b>. Born in Melbourne, Australia, Majeroni’s film career ran from 1912 through 1922. Is it me, or is this guy a dead ringer for comic actor Sasha Baron Cohen (at right)?</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J7l6uETEOdE/YDhOuI6Fu-I/AAAAAAAAGWQ/d1DeCLZX_aMXwywW0yftBdphwyHvrf6ZwCNcBGAsYHQ/s358/majeroni-and-baron-cohen.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J7l6uETEOdE/YDhOuI6Fu-I/AAAAAAAAGWQ/d1DeCLZX_aMXwywW0yftBdphwyHvrf6ZwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/majeroni-and-baron-cohen.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br /><p>In May of 1924 it was reported that the actor had contracted tuberculosis. He was sent to recuperate in Saranac Lake, New York, where pitching great Christy Mathewson was also attempting to recover from the same malady. Majeroni died in August of 1924, 14 months before Matty passed away.</p><p>Belle Borden was played by <b>Violet Horner</b>, who appeared in films from 1912 through 1917. In 1916 she had a small role in the controversial film “A Daughter of the Gods” starring Australian swimming legend Annette Kellerman. In the film, Kellerman became the first major actress to appear nude in a film. The movie was reportedly the first with a million dollar budget.</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WZ_CKmz6oK8/YDhO6Ul3PYI/AAAAAAAAGWY/dXbWRruc5NAvCSJKWOrNwQ2nI6dD8bf8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s907/violet-horner---moving-picture%2Bnews%2Baugust%2B9%2B1913.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WZ_CKmz6oK8/YDhO6Ul3PYI/AAAAAAAAGWY/dXbWRruc5NAvCSJKWOrNwQ2nI6dD8bf8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/violet-horner---moving-picture%2Bnews%2Baugust%2B9%2B1913.jpg" width="400" /></a><p>Dick Leslie was portrayed by <b>Bertram Marburgh</b>. Highlights of his film career, which lasted from 1915 through the mid-1940s, include small, uncredited roles in classic movies such as “Kitty Foyle” (1940) with Ginger Rogers, “The Lady Eve” (1941) with Barbara Stanwyck, “The Heavenly Body” (1944) with Hedy Lamarr, and “The Lost Weekend” (1945) with Ray Milland.</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WNX46mxb5_I/YDjz72NPf6I/AAAAAAAAGWk/gr0-pLmg2W8dU6zLNY8OpVf3YQVw1ee0ACNcBGAsYHQ/s741/an-affair-of-the-follies.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WNX46mxb5_I/YDjz72NPf6I/AAAAAAAAGWk/gr0-pLmg2W8dU6zLNY8OpVf3YQVw1ee0ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/an-affair-of-the-follies.jpg" width="400" /></a><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Billie Dove (left) and Bertram Marburgh in “An Affair of the Follies” (1927)</span></p><p>Now let’s turn our attention to the baseball scenes at the end of “The Stolen Voice.” Actual game action starts about 59 minutes into the video:</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MFsId5lAIR0/YDj0E4127eI/AAAAAAAAGWo/7P3J40lbyUodD9jamYL6YONKuyC_bQqNgCNcBGAsYHQ/s974/outfield%2Bwall%2Band%2Buniforms.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MFsId5lAIR0/YDj0E4127eI/AAAAAAAAGWo/7P3J40lbyUodD9jamYL6YONKuyC_bQqNgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/outfield%2Bwall%2Band%2Buniforms.jpg" width="400" /></a><p>The giant right field wall full of advertisements and the buildings seen in the distance match perfectly with Brooklyn’s Washington Park, home to the Dodgers prior to the construction of Ebbets Field. But in 1914 and 1915, the park was home to the Brooklyn Tip Tops (sometimes called the Brookfeds) of the Federal League. Here’s another photo of the park that clearly confirms this identification.</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vVSNOWTnus/YDj0JVMEFrI/AAAAAAAAGWs/UaUd2tOGOhs_KmtHQ_eJ04uh_ikpKzEswCNcBGAsYHQ/s1024/18468v.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9vVSNOWTnus/YDj0JVMEFrI/AAAAAAAAGWs/UaUd2tOGOhs_KmtHQ_eJ04uh_ikpKzEswCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/18468v.jpg" width="400" /></a><p><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Opening Day at Washington Park, April 10, 1915 </span></p><p>As the home team, the Tip Tops are seen wearing the lighter colored uniforms. But the visitors’ distinctive dark uniforms, with two-tone stockings, matches only that worn by the Buffalo in 1915. Here are the uniforms as found at <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/database.htm" target="_blank">the uniform database of National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum’s online exhibit “Dressed to the Nines”</a>:</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TyL_irn_wwY/YDj0S34U-SI/AAAAAAAAGW0/EPT8W0reebEe1Wiepkdb1uxkKakBVMJlQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/fl_1915_brooklyn.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TyL_irn_wwY/YDj0S34U-SI/AAAAAAAAGW0/EPT8W0reebEe1Wiepkdb1uxkKakBVMJlQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/fl_1915_brooklyn.gif" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> <br />Brooklyn Federal League, 1915<br /></span></p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xYvcXcv1XhE/YDj0WJQSM6I/AAAAAAAAGW8/pcU1zrGjb6sBGs1TiHsSCwrlpId2DjUOgCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/fl_1915_buffalo.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xYvcXcv1XhE/YDj0WJQSM6I/AAAAAAAAGW8/pcU1zrGjb6sBGs1TiHsSCwrlpId2DjUOgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/fl_1915_buffalo.gif" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Buffalo Federal League, 1915</span></p><p>In 1915, Brooklyn hosted Buffalo in three separate series, only two of which occurred prior to the early August release of the movie: a three-game set played April 10, 12, and 13; and a four-game series played July 6, 7, and 9 (doubleheader).</p><p>The play that caused such excitement for D’Orville is captured in the final baseball scene. With a right-handed Brooklyn batter at the plate, a runner from third attempts to steal home.</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lKW8RglMb5M/YDj1vWTGbYI/AAAAAAAAGXI/Um_gQ-a5ynclsXoky0Jllt7hFQ_SsqmZQCNcBGAsYHQ/s600/steal-gif.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lKW8RglMb5M/YDj1vWTGbYI/AAAAAAAAGXI/Um_gQ-a5ynclsXoky0Jllt7hFQ_SsqmZQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/steal-gif.gif" width="400" /></a><p>The home plate umpire calls the runner out. One would think this would result in groans, not cheers from the home crowd, but the movie director could not be bothered by such trifles. He used this opportunity to have D’Orville and the nearby fans go nuts with excitement.</p><p>So, in researching the game, I am left looking for a failed steal of home in one of the above noted seven games played between Buffalo and Brooklyn. Happily, I found an account of the July 6 game in the following day’s <i>Brooklyn Daily Eagle</i> with the following description:</p><p></p><blockquote>[Brooklyn’s Claude] Cooper started proceedings in the first stanza be singling to center. He took second as [George] Anderson beat out a bunt to [Buffalo pitcher Fred] Anderson. Both advanced on [Al] Halt’s sacrifice. Cooper came over as [Buffalo shortstop] Roxey Roach tossed out [Hugh] Bradley, but [George] Anderson died a moment later in an attempt to steal home.</blockquote><p></p><p>Most assuredly this is our play. A check of <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/boxes/BRF/BRF191507060.shtml" target="_blank">the box score at baseball-reference.com</a> reveals that we are seeing Brooklyn’s Fred Smith (a right-handed batter) at bat and George Anderson speeding home. The following other individuals are on the field for Buffalo: pitcher Fred Anderson, catcher Walter Blair, first baseman Hal Chase, second baseman Baldy Louden, and (far in the distance) center fielder Clyde Engle and right fielder Benny Meyer. The home plate umpire is Barry McCormick and the on-deck batter for Brooklyn (with a pair of bats in hand) is Fred Smith.</p><p>One other baseball scene occurs just about half a minute prior to the in-game sequences. It features George D’Orville greeting a player wearing a Tip Tops uniform outside the dugout. After the two shake hands, the movie star heads to his seat in the grandstand and the player heads onto the field.</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cn_bLIRgcqo/YDj2q0ISEJI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/sDMFRxpzraQ-SMhkDmyOhdIdFnmUL-SSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s975/greet-1.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cn_bLIRgcqo/YDj2q0ISEJI/AAAAAAAAGXQ/sDMFRxpzraQ-SMhkDmyOhdIdFnmUL-SSwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/greet-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RxB8Q6kwyjc/YDj2xPaTKsI/AAAAAAAAGXU/KaoAOqK66Q8OSsVQjtqTYItCQQ8j4NdUwCNcBGAsYHQ/s975/greet-2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RxB8Q6kwyjc/YDj2xPaTKsI/AAAAAAAAGXU/KaoAOqK66Q8OSsVQjtqTYItCQQ8j4NdUwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/greet-2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-syeRAIkdF6w/YDj20SLyTlI/AAAAAAAAGXY/KLJ6Tci6EF4Ow9VWuUAlm6-6ml7SE4wdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s975/greet-3.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-syeRAIkdF6w/YDj20SLyTlI/AAAAAAAAGXY/KLJ6Tci6EF4Ow9VWuUAlm6-6ml7SE4wdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/greet-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p>The player D’Orville greets is none other than Jim Bluejacket! Compare this still from the movie with these photos of the handsome pitcher.</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyV94X3kYaw/YDj27RSNE8I/AAAAAAAAGXg/URo77VIFREArybJfY2TOv5m4TTnoXSSvgCNcBGAsYHQ/s500/g44jq89.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dyV94X3kYaw/YDj27RSNE8I/AAAAAAAAGXg/URo77VIFREArybJfY2TOv5m4TTnoXSSvgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/g44jq89.jpg" width="400" /></a><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AyL7EEMzibM/YDj2_qWiIhI/AAAAAAAAGXk/CwXfd0ZmJgMNSENIzgxcOJe-uvNCLeI5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s600/bluejacket-1.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AyL7EEMzibM/YDj2_qWiIhI/AAAAAAAAGXk/CwXfd0ZmJgMNSENIzgxcOJe-uvNCLeI5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bluejacket-1.jpg" width="400" /></a><p>While I love the fact that we are seeing what are assuredly the only known moving images of Jim Bluejacket, it is not clear just why this shot was included in the film. The character of D’Orville has no known prior relationship with a baseball player, let alone Jim Bluejacket. Having D’Orville meet a ballplayer in no way helps further the plot. Why not just have D’Orville walk in to the ballpark and take his seat? (Better yet, why not have D’Orville and Marguerite go to the game together so that when his voice returns they can celebrate together?)</p><p>I can think of only one reason that this otherwise meaningless shot was included in the film: That day the film company took lots of footage of Bluejacket and they felt compelled to use at least a few seconds of it. Why did they have lots of footage of Jim Bluejacket? The answer is found in a story in the July 7 issue of the <i>Brooklyn Eagle</i> with the headline “Blue-Jacket [sic] Poses for the Movies As He Beats the Lowly Buffeds”:</p><p></p><blockquote><p>Chief James Blue-Jacket, huge Shawnee twirler of the Brookfeds, is now a moving picture star. If he combines his film poses with the business of pitching baseball as he did yesterday afternoon at Washington Park, when he defeated the Buffalo Blues by a score of 5 to 1, Chief James is going to be a great help to Lee Magee during the remainder of the season. ...</p><p>Please believe that this is no press agent yarn, but a real newspaper scoop on James Blue-Jacket’s success in the field of his latest endeavor. About a week ago the Shawnee Brave was asked to pose for a local moving picture concern at a nice remuneration. James immediately accepted, and was given a copy of the first scenario in which he was to appear. After reading the manuscript, the Chief suggested that the movie men, in one of the scenes, take him, during the progress of a regular league game, where he was supposed to pitch his club into a championship.</p><p>This accounts for the three moving picture machines installed in the grandstand at Washington Park yesterday. They ground out films from the beginning of batting practice until the last Buffed player was retired.</p></blockquote><p>Here we have final confirmation of the game date and Bluejacket’s on-screen presence. But we also learn that Jim Bluejacket was toying with the idea of becoming a movie actor. There was even a short blurb in the July 16, 1915, issue of <i>Variety</i> noting that “Jim Bluejacket, the Brookfed pitcher, is doing some picture work. A feature concern has him under contract.” Now we know that the “feature concern” was the World Film Corporation. Alas, beyond this uncredited cameo appearance, nothing came of these rumors. Whatever footage may have been taken of Bluejacket that day, all that made it to movie theaters was this brief scene at the end of “The Stolen Voice.”</p><p>So, in summary, here’s what we have in this silent movie from well over a century ago:</p><p>We have a close-up shot of Jim Bluejacket, one of big league baseball’s early Native American players and a “what if” story, both on the field and on film.</p><p>We have the excitement of baseball used as a way to resolve the key to a movie plot, as the protagonist’s curse is lifted when he forgets his disability and the emotions of rooting for the home team take over.</p><p>And we have the only known motion picture footage of an actual game from the short-lived Federal League, a major league from 1914 through 1915 ... or so one might think. In fact, there is one other old movie that contains Federal League game footage. I’ll be blogging about that footage in my next post, so stay tuned.<br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-75970926330674508422020-11-20T16:44:00.003-05:002022-08-31T14:09:23.947-04:00 An Early Photograph of Baseball at Franklin Field
<p> </p>
<p>Earlier this month, soon after Pro and College Football Hall of Famer Paul Hornung passed away, I was alerted to a stunning color photograph of the gridiron great taken during the 1960 NFL Championship Game. Shot the day after Christmas 1960, “The Golden Boy” is seen kicking a field goal for the Green Bay Packers in their losing effort against the eventual champion Philadelphia Eagles.</p>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfMbGn9a-vM/X7gmYnDdS2I/AAAAAAAAGRc/_9x8CDgf_IsKIQVnMOl8G1QQYJzRM-EGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1125/1960%2Bnfl%2Bchamp%2Bgame.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZfMbGn9a-vM/X7gmYnDdS2I/AAAAAAAAGRc/_9x8CDgf_IsKIQVnMOl8G1QQYJzRM-EGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1960%2Bnfl%2Bchamp%2Bgame.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
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<p>Besides skillfully freezing the action on the field in a perfectly composed image, the unidentified photographer captured an absolutely gorgeous setting. The location is the University of Pennsylvania’s Franklin Field, then the home of the NFL Eagles, and the majestic building in the background is Weightman Hall. Both structures still stand today.</p>
<p></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-80MkElx1Z4w/X7gmu0MvKYI/AAAAAAAAGRw/kNN0UIWCVJoqgwqM0AKMAo26o0r4fpezwCNcBGAsYHQ/s640/FranklinField-40Bsmall.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-80MkElx1Z4w/X7gmu0MvKYI/AAAAAAAAGRw/kNN0UIWCVJoqgwqM0AKMAo26o0r4fpezwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/FranklinField-40Bsmall.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p></p>
<p>I’m a baseball, not football, researcher, so when I first saw this exquisite, 60-year-old photo I immediately got to wondering if Franklin Field, with Weightman Hall as a magnificent backdrop, ever hosted a baseball game. I quickly found out that the answer is yes, as Penn’s baseball team played their home games there for decades after the stadium first opened in 1895. I then tracked down this gorgeous <a href="http://dla.library.upenn.edu/dla/archives/detail.html?id=ARCHIVES_20070123003" target="_blank">photograph of a baseball game being played at Franklin Field available at the University of Pennsylvania Archives</a>:</p>
<p></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2aJsQXHNKI/X7gm9IGL_cI/AAAAAAAAGR0/HBRpbdo2WdQxC88CWxCUMS_yeI9uesVywCNcBGAsYHQ/s2048/1907%2BJune%2B15%2BPenn%2Bvs%2BCarlisle.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z2aJsQXHNKI/X7gm9IGL_cI/AAAAAAAAGR0/HBRpbdo2WdQxC88CWxCUMS_yeI9uesVywCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1907%2BJune%2B15%2BPenn%2Bvs%2BCarlisle.jpe" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p>The photo is ID’ed as “Baseball, Penn vs. Carlisle, 1907, action photograph” and dated to June of 1907. A quick perusal of newspapers from June of 1907 reveals that while the game was originally scheduled to take place on June 5, 1907, rain forced the teams to postpone their meeting for 10 days. The new date of June 15 meant that the contest would be the last of the season for both the Penn and the Carlisle Indian School varsity baseball teams. Brief coverage of the game made numerous newspapers, including this noted in <i>New York Times</i>:</p>
<p></p><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls5QGRrYfR8/X7gnQeCiKII/AAAAAAAAGSA/cbw27Bv9mNo9cz0jjJvshYbze1fiKjM0QCNcBGAsYHQ/s627/ny-times-june-16-1907.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ls5QGRrYfR8/X7gnQeCiKII/AAAAAAAAGSA/cbw27Bv9mNo9cz0jjJvshYbze1fiKjM0QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ny-times-june-16-1907.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a> </p><p>Now take a look at this detail from the 1907 game action photograph showing Franklin Field’s scoreboard in right field foul territory:</p><p></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9-J0Nw-uOvI/X7g1g4JaKJI/AAAAAAAAGT0/0ni_8xsChL04aemk8r-Cbag5xMzLc_B_wCNcBGAsYHQ/s600/photo-detail.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9-J0Nw-uOvI/X7g1g4JaKJI/AAAAAAAAGT0/0ni_8xsChL04aemk8r-Cbag5xMzLc_B_wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/photo-detail.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p></p>
<p>I’ll call your attention to a few details:</p><ol style="text-align: left;"><li>Note that Carlisle is listed at the bottom of the line score, suggesting they batted second. But in this era, it was not uncommon for scoreboards and newspaper accounts to list the home team at the top of the line score, even though they batted at the “bottom” of the inning.</li><li>The scoreboard has numbers entered for 2½ innings, we know that the photo must have been taken in the bottom of the third with Penn at bat.</li><li>The partial line score matches what we see listed in the <i>New York Times </i>for the first 2½ innings, thus corroborating that the photo does indeed show the Carlisle at Penn game of June 15.</li></ol>
<p>The Carlisle Indians entered the game having won two of their last three games, but due to multiple rainouts those three contests were the only ones they had played over the previous two weeks. Meanwhile, the Penn Quakers (seen in their official team photograph below) were 17-15, but were riding a six-game losing streak.</p>
<p></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lsB0M4bc8jc/X7goDcX7IKI/AAAAAAAAGSU/ztNepnA-e1MFLNYEW8oOa2GipUzAbwstwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1907_UPenn_Baseball.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lsB0M4bc8jc/X7goDcX7IKI/AAAAAAAAGSU/ztNepnA-e1MFLNYEW8oOa2GipUzAbwstwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1907_UPenn_Baseball.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p></p>
<p>The hand-written identifications on the photograph are a bit confusing and fail to give full names, so here is a clearer listing of who’s who:<br /></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Top row (left to right): W.J. Brady, Calet Sipple Layton.</li><li>Second row (left to right): James Graham Damon (student manager), Wilbur Donahue Twitmire, Oscar Sedgwicke Carter, John Blakeley (coach), Charles “Kid” Keinath, Rodney K. Merrick, Shunzo Takaki, Edward Biddle Clay.</li><li>Third row (left to right): Matthias Franklin “Matty” Fennell, William Taylor Webb, Frank Post Wilson, Gerrit Parmele Judd, Frederick Throckmorton Thomas, Walter Samuel Brokaw, Bertine Gillette Simpson.</li><li>Bottom row (left to right): Charles Parmenas Henry, Louis Van Zelst (mascot), Charles Taylor Brown, Sewell Hopkins Corkran.</li></ul>
<p>A couple of players seen in this team photo had short minor league careers, including <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=twitmi001---" target="_blank">Wilbur Twitmire</a> and <a href="(https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=fennel001mat" target="_blank">Matty Fennell</a>. But one individual pictured above actually made the big leagues: 12-year-old team mascot Louis Van Zelst (mistakenly labeled as “Van Zandt” on the photograph).</p>
<p></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FccGFt56bl8/X7gonxSwacI/AAAAAAAAGSc/gqSKscbDjWE9Z1iQ2CQNdWZSKWZfior9gCNcBGAsYHQ/s943/louis-van-zelst.jpeg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FccGFt56bl8/X7gonxSwacI/AAAAAAAAGSc/gqSKscbDjWE9Z1iQ2CQNdWZSKWZfior9gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/louis-van-zelst.jpeg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p></p>
<p>Van Zelst, who four years earlier had suffered an injury that resulted in a hunchback, later served as the mascot of the powerhouse Philadelphia Athletics from 1909 through 1914, over which time the club won four pennants and three World Championships. Here he is (at bottom right) with the Athletics as they took the field at the Polo Grounds for the 1911 World Series.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xSMRW6eNho4/X7gox0songI/AAAAAAAAGSg/xi9Kyg0c1DYrDrLOFQXIAhaCxH8BhLoPgCNcBGAsYHQ/s786/1911-WS-with-Van-Zelst.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xSMRW6eNho4/X7gox0songI/AAAAAAAAGSg/xi9Kyg0c1DYrDrLOFQXIAhaCxH8BhLoPgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1911-WS-with-Van-Zelst.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p>In March of 1915, Van Zelst passed away of Bright’s Disease at the age 20, and (coincidentally?) the Athletics dropped to last place in the American League. They would not reach the post season again until 1929.</p>
<p>Two other Penn players seen in the 1907 team picture deserve special mention:</p>
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Charles “Kid” Keinath was a multisport star at Penn. Beyond baseball, he quarterbacked the 1908 National Champion football team (though there is some controversy about what team should be recognized as champions for that year) and was a four-time All-American basketball player. You can learn more about Keinath in an <a href="https://www.phlsportsnation.com/2018/12/16/the-story-of-charles-kid-keinath-a-upenn-legend/" target="_blank">excellent article at the Philadelphia Sports Nation web site</a>. And here he is with the 1908 Penn football squad:</li></ul>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2gYd-uN8Vmk/X7gpB42tPRI/AAAAAAAAGSs/IyF3f2INwVk7l_ePwodTCWsmlePdblbKgCNcBGAsYHQ/s888/Keinath%2Bwith%2B1908%2BPenn%2Bfootball%2Bchamps.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2gYd-uN8Vmk/X7gpB42tPRI/AAAAAAAAGSs/IyF3f2INwVk7l_ePwodTCWsmlePdblbKgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Keinath%2Bwith%2B1908%2BPenn%2Bfootball%2Bchamps.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>Shunzo Takaki starred at Penn in baseball, football, gymnastics, and tennis. According to historian Bill Staples Jr., the native of Tokyo “is believed to be the first person of Japanese ancestry to play baseball for a mainland U.S. college.” You can <a href="http://billstaples.blogspot.com/2015/02/shunzo-takaki-2bof-university-of.html" target="_blank">learn more about Takaki at Bill’s stellar blog site</a>.
</li></ul><p>Returning to the contest of June 15, 1907, I was unable to track down a box score of the game, so it is difficult to state for certain which players on either club participated in the matchup. However, as seen in the <i>New York Times</i> clipping above, the batteries were Fennell (p) and Brown (c) for Penn, Garlow (p) and Wauseko (c) for Carlisle.</p>
<p>Southpaw Matty Fennell was generally recognized as Penn’s top pitcher. And his catcher, Charles Brown, was also a founding member of the Penn wrestling team, grappling at 135 pounds for the Quakers.</p>
<p>Carlisle pitcher William Garlow, seen winding up on the mound in our June 15 Franklin Field photo, played baseball, football, and lacrosse at Carlisle. He also apparently had a <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=garlow001wil" target="_blank">four-year minor league baseball career</a>. Here he is pictured in his Carlisle football uniform:</p>
<p></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9PfGX7WgUbQ/X7gqB6wqRMI/AAAAAAAAGS4/LtWKMIZO45g3Jvhw9GCGUoV4ZuzVWzT-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s667/william%2Bgarlow.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9PfGX7WgUbQ/X7gqB6wqRMI/AAAAAAAAGS4/LtWKMIZO45g3Jvhw9GCGUoV4ZuzVWzT-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/william%2Bgarlow.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a> <br />
<p></p>
<p>The Carlisle catcher was listed as Wauseko, but this was a misspelling of Wauseka, an alias used by Emil Hauser. Like his batterymate, Hauser also played football at Carlisle and <a href="https://www.baseball-reference.com/register/player.fcgi?id=hauser001emi" target="_blank">dabbled in minor league baseball</a>. The image below shows Hauser after he left Carlisle to attend and play football for the Oregon Agricultural College (now Oregon State).</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UsYvYvtnYuM/X7grCekBpFI/AAAAAAAAGTE/8dw8WCwEwWAjLlQylnrnLv2kUU08MXumgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1080/Emil%2BHauser%2Bwith%2BOAC%2Bsweater.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UsYvYvtnYuM/X7grCekBpFI/AAAAAAAAGTE/8dw8WCwEwWAjLlQylnrnLv2kUU08MXumgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Emil%2BHauser%2Bwith%2BOAC%2Bsweater.jpe" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a> <br />
<p>It seems likely that the first baseman seen in the Franklin Field photo is Carlisle’s William Newashe. As a member of the school’s 1911 football team, Newashe participated in one of the most celebrated college football games in history: Carlisle's stunning November 11 victory over Harvard <i>at Harvard</i>. In this photo of the legendary Carlisle team, Newashe can be seen in the second row, third from left:</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzUyc0B8MWs/X7grncUY9BI/AAAAAAAAGTM/ySF6teYrlJocSeT5vgu4K5bFFKqwxneVACNcBGAsYHQ/s1438/1911%2BCarlisle%2Bfootball.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VzUyc0B8MWs/X7grncUY9BI/AAAAAAAAGTM/ySF6teYrlJocSeT5vgu4K5bFFKqwxneVACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1911%2BCarlisle%2Bfootball.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a> <br />
<p>The second baseman in the photo of the Quakers vs. Indians game may have been William Pappan, the school’s second sacker for most of the season. However, according to school records, Pappan was expelled less than week before the game, so that identification is very problematic.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aw9W4YP91ME/X7gtSgrRjKI/AAAAAAAAGTY/1vJDkua5N3oe7ppK7X2vLqNdio0QvtuVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s689/pappan-student-card.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aw9W4YP91ME/X7gtSgrRjKI/AAAAAAAAGTY/1vJDkua5N3oe7ppK7X2vLqNdio0QvtuVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/pappan-student-card.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p>In the following photo, Pappan can be seen seated in the third row from the top, second from left:</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--K-lhXwZaBg/X7gtYm-eKBI/AAAAAAAAGTc/cg904eAFX2MzJHAJluzAZ8l89dVzmK1ZQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1761/william%2Bpappan%2Bsitting%2Bsecond%2Bfrom%2Bleft.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--K-lhXwZaBg/X7gtYm-eKBI/AAAAAAAAGTc/cg904eAFX2MzJHAJluzAZ8l89dVzmK1ZQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/william%2Bpappan%2Bsitting%2Bsecond%2Bfrom%2Bleft.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p>As for the right fielder in the Franklin Field photograph, a good guess is that it is Joe Twin, who played the position for Carlisle in 1907 regularly. Just a few weeks before the game, the school newspaper, <i>The Arrow</i>, published an “essay written by Joe Twin, the ‘Foxy’ right fielder for the Indians.” You can <a href="http://carlisleindian.dickinson.edu/sites/all/files/docs-publications/Arrow_v03n39.pdf" target="_blank">read it here</a>.</p>
<p>It’s tempting to think that Carlisle legend Jim Thorpe, who starred in just about every athletic endeavor that one could imagine, was playing for the Carlisle Indian varsity team at the time the Franklin Field photo was taken. But it appears that the future Olympic gold medalist and major league baseball player did not make the varsity baseball squad until the following season. In 1907, his baseball activities were limited to playing for a school team called the “All-Giants,” as announced in <i>The Arrow</i> of April 26, 1907:</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-InaDuIY5IaY/X7gt2DcocSI/AAAAAAAAGTo/_IL2RdZKAIwkKduhQR2ftAyyokfDRJUZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/arrow-clipping-april-26-1907.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-InaDuIY5IaY/X7gt2DcocSI/AAAAAAAAGTo/_IL2RdZKAIwkKduhQR2ftAyyokfDRJUZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/arrow-clipping-april-26-1907.jpg" style="margin-bottom: 1em; margin-top: 1em;" width="400" /></a>
<p>Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the name of Carlisle’s baseball coach: Glenn Scobey Warner. That’s right! College Football Hall of Famer “Pop” Warner was head coach of the Carlisle baseball team. Take another look at the 1911 Carlisle football team photo above. That’s Warner in the top row, third from right, with Jim Thorpe in the second row, third from right. </p><p>
</p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-74729473690641562282020-09-28T08:48:00.004-04:002021-04-05T07:53:59.747-04:00An Illustrated Guide to “Headin’ Home,” Babe Ruth’s First Feature Film<p><br /></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POJMIxh3UCs/X3EG1-kYEVI/AAAAAAAAGQk/oVN7a6znOt4JOParRLYhopxZkBqdvp6DQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/illustrated-guide.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-POJMIxh3UCs/X3EG1-kYEVI/AAAAAAAAGQk/oVN7a6znOt4JOParRLYhopxZkBqdvp6DQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/illustrated-guide.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>On September 5, 1919, Red Sox pitcher-turned-slugger Babe Ruth hit his 25th home run of the season. In newspapers the following day, it was reported that the 24-year-old baseball star had tied the single-season home run record set by Washington’s Buck Freeman back in 1899. Few paid attention to the fact that the actual record-holder was Ned Williamson, who clouted 27 round-trippers for the old Chicago White Stockings of the National League back in 1884. But Ruth made headlines for a different reason on September 6, signing a movie contract for a whopping $10,000 — twice his annual salary with the Boston ball club.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp_seA5Fp28/X2vmiyHB3II/AAAAAAAAFvc/h4lMfSqbe1Ux8pjHZ1M3p8e1kuoqdO3QgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1583/Salt%2BLake%2B%2BCity%2BTribune%252C%2BSeptember%2B7%2B1920.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1583" data-original-width="600" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lp_seA5Fp28/X2vmiyHB3II/AAAAAAAAFvc/h4lMfSqbe1Ux8pjHZ1M3p8e1kuoqdO3QgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Salt%2BLake%2B%2BCity%2BTribune%252C%2BSeptember%2B7%2B1920.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>Salt Lake City Tribune</i>, September 7, 1920</span>
<p></p><p>In late October, a month after he broke Williamson’s record and set a new single-season mark with 29 home runs, Ruth and his wife Helen boarded the Santa Fe Limited bound for Los Angeles, the star of the diamond anticipating stardom on the silver screen. He also famously proclaimed that he wouldn’t return to Boston unless the club gave him a brand new contract.</p>
<p>As it turns out, Ruth spent most of his time in Southern California playing ball in front of crowds rather than playing a character in front of a movie camera. And when he did return to the East coast, it was as a member of the New York Yankees, his sale being announced just a few days after the New Year.</p>
<p>As reported in the <i>Chicago Daily</i> Tribune of January 25, 1920:</p>
<p></p><blockquote>Ruth isn’t with any moving picture company. He hasn’t been with one for over a month. The company brought him to Los Angeles all right, intending to feature him in a picture, but after a struggle of some weeks gave it up as a hopeless job and let him go. He’s played some Sunday ball games and pulled down $100 or so for each appearance, but it didn’t take the movie boss long to decide he was impossible in that game.</blockquote><p></p>
<p>While Ruth’s first brush with motion pictures proved to be a bust, just months after making his debut with the Yankees, the Bambino once again signed a movie contract. On July 19, 1920, the very day Ruth hit his 30th homer, thus topping his previous season’s home run mark, newspapers reported that the undisputed “Home Run King” had been awarded a deal to star in a film titled “Headin’ Home.” Five days later, just prior to the start of a July 24 game against his old Red Sox teammates, Ruth made it official, signing the contract in a ceremony at home plate.</p>
<p>The deal was generally reported as calling for $100,000 and Ruth himself often promoted that figure, but the actual salary was for half that amount, with $15,000 up front and $35,000 to come later. Alas, Ruth never did see that second installment.</p>
<p>Unlike the West coast attempt at capturing the Babe on film, this movie was to be shot during the playing season and near the New York City area. In fact, even before Ruth signed the contract, filming of scenes not involving the Bambino had begun. But with Ruth in the fold, shooting would begin in earnest in mid-August, when the Yankees returned to New York from a 19-game, 19-day road trip.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Movie</h2>
<p>For the rest of this blog post, I’ll be examining “Headin’ Home” in detail, referencing scenes of interest and relating the stories behind them. If you have never seen the movie, or it has been a while, I highly suggest watching it again, then reading the blog for a “deep dive.”</p>
<p>Fortunately, watching the movie is a breeze. It is featured on a two-DVD compilation of early baseball movies made available by <a href="https://www.kinolorber.com/film/reelbaseballbaseballfilmsfromthesilentera" target="_blank">KINO International</a> titled “Reel Baseball.” Faithful readers of “Baseball Researcher” may recall that I’ve earlier delved into another movie on “Reel Baseball” called <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2013/03/how-office-boy-saw-ball-game.html" target="_blank">“How the Office Boy Saw the Ball Game,” which contained baseball footage from 1906</a>.</p>
<p>Another version of “Headin’ Home,” lower in quality and significantly shorter than KINO version, is available (at a much lower quality, but for free) at <a href="https://archive.org/details/Heading_Home" target="_blank">archive.org</a>. The two versions differ slightly from one another, with some scenes missing from each, though I recommend the KINO version which, at around 73-minutes in length, is the more complete. I’ll alert the reader regarding the few scenes missing from that version when they come up.</p>
<p>To that end, both the KINO and archive.org versions of “Headin’ Home” are missing the full introductory cartoon credits. However, you can see much of what is missing in the first few seconds (00:08 – 00:18) of this YouTube video. The rest of the YouTube video is essentially random excerpts from the movie.</p><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="333" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mLtQmAOsD38?start=7&end=18;rel=0&showinfo=0" width="400"></iframe><br /><br /><p>While I will generally walk through the movie in the order that scenes appear, I will jump around here and there in order to fully cover a behind-the-scenes story, discuss a shooting locale, or otherwise complete a thought. However, in order to help those interested in taking a closer look at these scenes, whenever I include a still from the movie, I will note the time code as found in the “Reel Baseball” version.</p><p>Also, throughout this guide, I will be mentioning numerous locations relevant to the movie. Where appropriate, I will link the noted location to a Google Map so you can see where the site is today.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">The Men Behind the Movie</h2><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9QhUI1Lb2Y/X2yWOcME1pI/AAAAAAAAFvs/EDcwlkk65oEI9XpJ3BSVTqPPD_ZtVxARACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/00-12.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_9QhUI1Lb2Y/X2yWOcME1pI/AAAAAAAAFvs/EDcwlkk65oEI9XpJ3BSVTqPPD_ZtVxARACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/00-12.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 00:12</span></p><p></p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NM-esfa6XQ/X2yd_4z1l2I/AAAAAAAAFwY/6oU0Vwx8TD8eZq0TisY7cxjF1dLiVK_0QCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/kessel%2Band%2Bbaumann.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="686" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4NM-esfa6XQ/X2yd_4z1l2I/AAAAAAAAFwY/6oU0Vwx8TD8eZq0TisY7cxjF1dLiVK_0QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/kessel%2Band%2Bbaumann.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Adam Kessel (left) and Charles Baumann</span>
</p><p>Adam Kessel and Charles Baumann were veterans of the motion picture business. They helped finance Mack Sennett’s Keystone Studios in 1912 and signed Charlie Chaplin to his first movie contract the following year. Though the duo hadn’t been involved in producing movies for some three years, in July of 1920 they returned with a bang, signing Babe Ruth through the Yankee Photoplay Corporation (unaffiliated with the New York Yankees baseball club) and producing the six-reel feature film “Headin’ Home.”</p><p></p>
<p>Today, other than Babe Ruth, the only name associated with the film that has stood the test of time is that of Raoul Walsh, the movie’s production supervisor.</p><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-95Bs8qAVj3M/X2yhNtnO38I/AAAAAAAAFxA/eKExA5dbYq08Jdq1zBUIOlJw3t_vwYKCwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1023/r%2Bwalsh.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1023" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-95Bs8qAVj3M/X2yhNtnO38I/AAAAAAAAFxA/eKExA5dbYq08Jdq1zBUIOlJw3t_vwYKCwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/r%2Bwalsh.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Raoul Walsh</span>
</p><p>Walsh (no relation to Christy Walsh, who acted as Ruth’s agent starting in 1921) went on to bigger and better things, directing such classics as “Objective Burma” with Errol Flynn (1945), “They Drive by Night” (1940) and “High Sierra” (1941) both starring Humphrey Bogart, and “The Thief of Bagdad” with Douglas Fairbanks (1924). Incidentally, Ruth paid a visit to what remained of the set for “The Thief of Bagdad” when he barnstormed in Southern California following the 1924 season:</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07_kkvwy7m0/X2-1rHCkMPI/AAAAAAAAGPQ/rPf8B1ctdgc6CpA-IAua5Imbp8bQzefGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/thief-of-bagdad.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="563" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-07_kkvwy7m0/X2-1rHCkMPI/AAAAAAAAGPQ/rPf8B1ctdgc6CpA-IAua5Imbp8bQzefGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/thief-of-bagdad.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="https://collection.baseballhall.org/PASTIME/babe-ruth-walter-johnson-and-group-photograph-1924-november-01" target="_blank">National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum</a></span>
<p></p><p>Contemporary sources disagree as to just who directed “Headin’ Home.” Some state that Walsh was the director, while others give the nod to the otherwise forgettable Lawrence C. Windom. The previous year Windom directed a movie titled “Wanted: A Husband,” a flick that starred the 34-year-old actress Billie Burke. Burke later starred in such films as “Dinner at Eight” (1933) and the popular “Topper” series (1937-1941), but today is best remembered as Glinda, the Good Witch of the North, in “The Wizard of Oz” (1939). She also later lived in <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Ansonia+Realty+LLC/@40.7801159,-73.9826947,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c25889f9d30dbb:0xb733414b3537a2cc!8m2!3d40.7801144!4d-73.9818905" target="_blank">The Ansonia</a>, the famous 17-story apartment building that was home to Babe Ruth when he first moved to New York City:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2FHsxQjUxU/X3Co_9BNJAI/AAAAAAAAGQY/c7JpJ8v09igKbmA-UYb3YyFjGyLdLT3fwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/ansonia.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="636" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-K2FHsxQjUxU/X3Co_9BNJAI/AAAAAAAAGQY/c7JpJ8v09igKbmA-UYb3YyFjGyLdLT3fwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ansonia.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Bugs Baer</h2><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7AUdhg5AB8U/X2yeXCye0sI/AAAAAAAAFwo/OwLFBByQ10UEH8ZTtm6Yu4Uk6ciW5-f1ACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/00-17.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7AUdhg5AB8U/X2yeXCye0sI/AAAAAAAAFwo/OwLFBByQ10UEH8ZTtm6Yu4Uk6ciW5-f1ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/00-17.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 00:17</span></p><p>The silent movie’s title cards, today often referred to as “intertitles,” were written by Arthur “Bugs” Baer, a well-known humorist, sportswriter, and cartoonist. Baer became a longtime friend of Ruth, wrote shtick for some of the Bambino’s vaudeville appearances, and was an honorary pall-bearer at the Babe’s funeral in the summer of 1948.</p>
<p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXrUdIIIGYk/X2yfHQBZYEI/AAAAAAAAFw0/j52GSC-t_Q4ceYsB9qOC7hqvgIUosJjFwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/bugs%2Bbaer.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="780" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aXrUdIIIGYk/X2yfHQBZYEI/AAAAAAAAFw0/j52GSC-t_Q4ceYsB9qOC7hqvgIUosJjFwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bugs%2Bbaer.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Arthur “Bugs” Baer</span>
</p><p>Baer’s playful wit is evident in many of his title cards, and he often gives a nod to stories of the day.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDayN8L7J04/X2yj3c2PnFI/AAAAAAAAFxM/OlblTjpPAMs-m1Xe3l-XG-UuZGT_024nwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/01-00.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDayN8L7J04/X2yj3c2PnFI/AAAAAAAAFxM/OlblTjpPAMs-m1Xe3l-XG-UuZGT_024nwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/01-00.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:00</span>
<p></p><p>For example, the above card was used to introduce movie goers to the star of the film, Babe Ruth. Baer’s word play was especially timely as the League of Nations, founded in January of 1920, was less than a year old when the movie was shot. The League remained an important worldwide organization until the late 1930s, but in 1946 it was replaced by the United Nations.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nVi1oJzbHwU/X2ykNOb0UKI/AAAAAAAAFxU/merSdhluIbcEjKHy_EVC5KS4KbEfFPzEACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/20-05.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nVi1oJzbHwU/X2ykNOb0UKI/AAAAAAAAFxU/merSdhluIbcEjKHy_EVC5KS4KbEfFPzEACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20-05.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 20:05</span>
<p></p><p>Later in the movie, when Babe tried to break up a quarrel between a barber and his wife, Baer referenced the Fourteen Points, the principles for peace negotiations outlined by President Woodrow Wilson in his January 1918 speech to Congress.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aHWczRMR_Nc/X2ykUZHaFtI/AAAAAAAAFxY/TGwQRDkPCgwogC7doTKWSfGSSVQEDxCmwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/22-01.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aHWczRMR_Nc/X2ykUZHaFtI/AAAAAAAAFxY/TGwQRDkPCgwogC7doTKWSfGSSVQEDxCmwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/22-01.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 22:01</span>
<p></p><p>Here Baer compared the barber’s garlicky pasta (more about that later) to the Chicago White Sox infield. It should be remembered that over the prior three baseball seasons (1917 through 1919), the White Sox had captured a pair of American League pennants thanks in great part to a stellar infield that included first baseman Chick Gandil, second baseman Eddie Collins, shortstop Swede Risberg, third baseman Buck Weaver, and catcher Ray Schalk. It was not until late in the 1920 season that rumors of a number of members of the club (including Gandil, Risberg, and Weaver) intentionally losing World Series games the previous year would come out into the open, resulting in the 1919 White Sox being dubbed the “Black Sox.”</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4PjFvXJwnGA/X2ysCo1XseI/AAAAAAAAFxo/UZ_4IXEWNO05uD-zBjiqmw3gq7xLj5fWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Attell.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="573" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4PjFvXJwnGA/X2ysCo1XseI/AAAAAAAAFxo/UZ_4IXEWNO05uD-zBjiqmw3gq7xLj5fWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Attell.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Abe Attell</span>
<p></p><p>Speaking of the Black Sox scandal, according to an article in the September 24, 1920, issue of <i>Variety</i>, Abe Attell, a former boxing champion who served as intermediary between the crooked White Sox ballplayers and World Series fixer Arnold Rothstein ...<br /></p>
<p></p><blockquote>... has fortified himself with a bankroll of at least $100,000. It has been printed here before that Attel [sic] was bounding cubes for several runs in his factor, but that the gross reached the six figures was not generally thought until the former featherweight champion commenced to make investments. One of his best was placing $20,000 in the Babe Ruth film “Headin’ Home.”</blockquote><p></p>
<p>A story in the <i>Boston Post</i> two weeks later put Attell’s movie investment at $25,000. Whatever the sum, it appears that money from (or at least gamblers involved in) the Black Sox scandal helped fund “Headin’ Home.”</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jx06Q5n5zEM/X2ys9jTsptI/AAAAAAAAFx0/hgaLMG2FEpYKLhUQuljU2SOxGD2CQFxywCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/1-00-35%2Bmissing%2Btitle%2Bcard.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="561" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Jx06Q5n5zEM/X2ys9jTsptI/AAAAAAAAFx0/hgaLMG2FEpYKLhUQuljU2SOxGD2CQFxywCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-00-35%2Bmissing%2Btitle%2Bcard.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Missing title card time: approximately 01:00:35</span>
<p></p><p>The above title card, missing from the KINO version of “Headin’ Home,” but found in the version at archive.org, reads “Babe signed a hundred year contract for more money than Ponzi could promise.” The card should appear at about the one hour mark in the KINO version, as a lead-in to the scene in which Babe signs his big league contract.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FL3qbU83p3M/X2yyNYqQdMI/AAAAAAAAFyA/kCYNbYf3bscU_JVy_WTw40zc2tFnfuprACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/charles%2Bponzi.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="618" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FL3qbU83p3M/X2yyNYqQdMI/AAAAAAAAFyA/kCYNbYf3bscU_JVy_WTw40zc2tFnfuprACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/charles%2Bponzi.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Charles Ponzi</span>
<p></p><p>Not only is this reference to a Ponzi scheme humorous, it was particularly timely, as Charles Ponzi’s shenanigans were first exposed in late July of 1920.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKgG3wDmWQ0/X2zUfKAbjmI/AAAAAAAAFyM/TijCjQyqqV8q8pyKMEWytz_v_hrE5s9VgCNcBGAsYHQ/s593/NY%2BTimes%2BJuly%2B27%2B1920%2BPonzi.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="593" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XKgG3wDmWQ0/X2zUfKAbjmI/AAAAAAAAFyM/TijCjQyqqV8q8pyKMEWytz_v_hrE5s9VgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/NY%2BTimes%2BJuly%2B27%2B1920%2BPonzi.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>New York Times</i>, July 27, 1920</span>
<p></p><p>The headline above comes from the <i>New York Times</i> of July 27, 1920, the day the Ponzi story first broke and just three days after Ruth signed to star in “Headin’ Home.”</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4g3Vm-IJGds/X2zVRwNUzII/AAAAAAAAFyY/wFYnFGXTUvEqJSHK4Rnk4_u09p2NBI2MQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/55-56.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4g3Vm-IJGds/X2zVRwNUzII/AAAAAAAAFyY/wFYnFGXTUvEqJSHK4Rnk4_u09p2NBI2MQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/55-56.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 55:56</span>
<p></p><p>While Baer’s title cards add a great deal to the charm of the movie, they were not without their faults. Just about an hour into the film, when Babe leaves his home in Haverlock, Baer mistakenly refers to the destination as Hillsdale, when it should have read Highland.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--j5kh2e4s2Q/X2zYv89bg7I/AAAAAAAAFyk/jj2m_HbDlpEOrPBV6xwukEHWPYIMvwrOgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Boston%2BGlobe%2BSultan%2Bof%2BSwat.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="367" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--j5kh2e4s2Q/X2zYv89bg7I/AAAAAAAAFyk/jj2m_HbDlpEOrPBV6xwukEHWPYIMvwrOgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Boston%2BGlobe%2BSultan%2Bof%2BSwat.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>Boston Globe</i>, February 24, 1917</span>
<p></p><p>Incidentally, while Baer is often credited as dubbing Ruth “The Sultan of Swat,” the nickname was actually first applied to Honus Wagner back in 1917 by Grantland Rice. The name didn’t last with Wagner, but when applied to Ruth, it stuck.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">And ... Action!</h2>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUgvmLPN6O4/X2zZoto2UhI/AAAAAAAAFyw/ISSTN05OUy0JDdtIUCDdlZxSLX150CxgACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/00-41.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUgvmLPN6O4/X2zZoto2UhI/AAAAAAAAFyw/ISSTN05OUy0JDdtIUCDdlZxSLX150CxgACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/00-41.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 00:41</span>
<p></p><p>The movie starts with scenes shot at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Polo+Grounds+-+Home+Plate/@40.8322699,-73.9443066,16z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2f76186e134d3:0x48517f29bcd923b8!8m2!3d40.831998!4d-73.9377727" target="_blank">New York’s Polo Grounds</a>, home to the Yankees from 1913 to 1922. Here we see Babe Ruth (in the foreground at right) lead a contingent of Yankees out of the clubhouse in center field.</p>
<p>Note that the players are seen wearing black armbands on their left sleeves. On August 16, 1920, the Yankees’ first day back from their extended road trip, Cleveland’s Ray Chapman was hit in the head by a pitch delivered by Yankees’ pitcher Carl Mays. The shortstop died the next morning. For the rest of the season (and throughout the World Series) the Indians donned mourning bands in memory of their much-beloved teammate. But what is often overlooked in the tragic story is that the Yankees and numerous other clubs (both in the American and National Leagues) also wore similar armbands. Even the Yankees head trainer Doc Woods (with his unique jersey featuring his job title on the front) wore an armband: <br /></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZK4l3kjjeI/X2zZx5okMiI/AAAAAAAAFy0/EbmsI9MG_tc6o7IdQ8LS8ADSaN1lkdfZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/00-54.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZK4l3kjjeI/X2zZx5okMiI/AAAAAAAAFy0/EbmsI9MG_tc6o7IdQ8LS8ADSaN1lkdfZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/00-54.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 00:54</span>
<p></p><p>About half a minute later we get a brief glimpse of on-field footage: </p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sAYpvIbZCLI/X2zZ28F2lvI/AAAAAAAAFy4/JtL-TCdXnCoSIh5uVchl9_C6-Nko_FgzQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/01-31.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sAYpvIbZCLI/X2zZ28F2lvI/AAAAAAAAFy4/JtL-TCdXnCoSIh5uVchl9_C6-Nko_FgzQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/01-31.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:31</span>
<p></p><p>Babe Ruth is walking off the diamond and towards the Yankees dugout. An opposing player seen in the foreground is wearing stockings with a thick, colored stripe.</p>
<p>As documented at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum’s “Dressed to the Nines” online exhibit, <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/uniforms.asp?league=&city=&lowYear=1920&highYear=1920&sort=year&increment=18" target="_blank">only two big league clubs in 1920 wore stockings with a single, dark stripe with white or gray both above and below the stripe</a>: the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Athletics. But the Athletics wore stockings with a thin stripe, thus this player must be a member of the Red Sox. We’ll have to wait until the very end of the movie before we can learn more about this footage.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Cast</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p2X0fu-Lz5c/X2zb1D7GUpI/AAAAAAAAFzM/gdAahhOfwyMzfMaqtKThc6mX6sUpsndggCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/01-06.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p2X0fu-Lz5c/X2zb1D7GUpI/AAAAAAAAFzM/gdAahhOfwyMzfMaqtKThc6mX6sUpsndggCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/01-06.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:06</span>
<p></p><p>Here we get a glimpse into the Yankees dugout at the Polo Grounds and are treated to an up-close view of Babe Ruth, who not-so-coincidentally plays a character known quite simply as “Babe.”</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpcVte-6WsM/X2zcNoc_sdI/AAAAAAAAFzU/uxGc8_rVXxYZebNp8738tV6rRLcfvzKOACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/01-48.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZpcVte-6WsM/X2zcNoc_sdI/AAAAAAAAFzU/uxGc8_rVXxYZebNp8738tV6rRLcfvzKOACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/01-48.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:48</span>
<p></p><p>After being introduced to Babe, the audience meets the narrator of the story, Eliar Lott, who weaves the (tall?) tale over the course of the movie.<br /></p>
<p>Get it? Eliar Lott?</p>
<p>Portrayed by William J. Gross, an 82-year-old veteran of both stage and screen, Lott reminisces in “Forrest Gump” fashion, telling the tale to a hapless fan seated next to him at the Polo Grounds.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVQnJ8vuCn0/X2zcTUX3jAI/AAAAAAAAFzY/CHAdqhB_TjMgzWCtzbEzXY-O5Rt1TCSogCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/01-51.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pVQnJ8vuCn0/X2zcTUX3jAI/AAAAAAAAFzY/CHAdqhB_TjMgzWCtzbEzXY-O5Rt1TCSogCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/01-51.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:51</span>
<p></p><p>Here the title card introduces the fictional town of Haverlock, the birthplace of Babe’s character and a thinly veiled nod to <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Haverstraw,+NY/@41.1966095,-73.9684864,15.44z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c40a1523eeed:0xf4c6b8401616154e!8m2!3d41.1975947!4d-73.9645837" target="_blank">Haverstraw, New York</a>, where most of the outdoor scenes for the movie were shot.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5QKe6dbY2N4/X2zdtYnTLXI/AAAAAAAAFzo/J87HJJXC8xQtsXg4Dzia8blH62OEGPiyACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/02-05.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5QKe6dbY2N4/X2zdtYnTLXI/AAAAAAAAFzo/J87HJJXC8xQtsXg4Dzia8blH62OEGPiyACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/02-05.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 02:05</span>
<p></p><p>The movie then cuts to a shot looking northeast over Haverstraw, with the Hudson River in the background. Here’s a more modern view of the village:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pMaIthzduMc/X2zeueRn5gI/AAAAAAAAFz0/FntF_FdqKj80gTahZjH3rQ1mdhn-I_57ACNcBGAsYHQ/s2000/haverstraw%2Btoday.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="2000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pMaIthzduMc/X2zeueRn5gI/AAAAAAAAFz0/FntF_FdqKj80gTahZjH3rQ1mdhn-I_57ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/haverstraw%2Btoday.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>At the time, Haverstraw’s population was just over 9,000, while today it numbers around 12,000.</p>
<p>It is not clear why Haverstraw was chosen as the location for the small town scenes. One possibility is that just prior to production of “Headin’ Home,” a movie titled “The Stealers” (1920) had been filmed there and the townsfolk were amenable to future movie companies returning for shoots.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bjSBUTQ4Oa0/X2ztUMaRpeI/AAAAAAAAF0A/rmoXEJaxwR03VkoLcBRwQ6k_Gdap7hveQCNcBGAsYHQ/s508/Christy%2BCabanne.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="508" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bjSBUTQ4Oa0/X2ztUMaRpeI/AAAAAAAAF0A/rmoXEJaxwR03VkoLcBRwQ6k_Gdap7hveQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Christy%2BCabanne.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Christy Cabanne</span>
<p></p><p>The director of that movie was Christy Cabanne (pronounced “CAB-a-nay”), a significant figure in the motion picture industry of the 1910s and 1920s. Cabanne was an assistant director under D.W. Griffith for two important films, “The Birth of a Nation” (1915) and “Intolerance” (1916), and he is one of five men credited as directing the original version of “Ben Hur” (1925). Cabanne directed Shirley Temple in her first credited role in a feature film, “Red-Haired Alibi” (1932). And in “The Stealers,” he directed a young Norma Shearer, also starring in her first credited feature film role.</p>
<p>Alas, no copies of “The Stealers” exist today, which is unfortunate as it would have been fun to compare exterior scenes from that film with those in “Headin’ Home.”</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-woaHRvlUuxU/X2ztc1zSfbI/AAAAAAAAF0E/B5gFmD9uZPsRUf3IUq5vW3trwH8qN2YZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/02-15.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-woaHRvlUuxU/X2ztc1zSfbI/AAAAAAAAF0E/B5gFmD9uZPsRUf3IUq5vW3trwH8qN2YZgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/02-15.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 02:15</span>
<p></p><p>Margaret Seddon played Babe’s mother, and though 47 years old at the time, she was relatively new to the silver screen. Years later she had bit parts in some big name movies, including “David Copperfield” starring W.C. Fields (1935), “Mr. Deeds Goes to Town” starring Gary Cooper (1936), and “The Hunchback of Notre Dame” starring Charles Laughton (1939).</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gbGR7QcI0ks/X2ztiwvOgfI/AAAAAAAAF0I/uENiSUsd8xoDTJVEDAhN_WDPh1ppwuOaACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/02-45.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gbGR7QcI0ks/X2ztiwvOgfI/AAAAAAAAF0I/uENiSUsd8xoDTJVEDAhN_WDPh1ppwuOaACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/02-45.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 02:45</span>
<p></p><p>Frances Victory played Pigtails, Babe’s foster-sister. This was her only film, though she did have a brief stage career as a child actress. Sadly, the dog who played Herman is uncredited.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ksk3bK2T5iw/X2zucN0mvlI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/NqZbwyIH-acfoiVdpfMdyotq39ksTt4WgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/03-33.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ksk3bK2T5iw/X2zucN0mvlI/AAAAAAAAF0Y/NqZbwyIH-acfoiVdpfMdyotq39ksTt4WgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/03-33.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 03:33</span>
<p></p><p>James A. Marcus played Cyrus “Si” Tobin, the owner of the local bank and father of Babe’s love interest. The 53-year-old Marcus was a favorite of Raoul Walsh’s, having been featured in many of his films, including “The Scarlet Empress” with Marlene Dietrich (1934) and “A Tale of Two Cities” with Ronald Colman (1935). Here is Marcus with Gloria Swanson in Walsh’s “Sadie Thompson” (1928):</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrSj_zmBVv4/X2zvE0v_72I/AAAAAAAAF1A/PNmiXLUX-8MM02gNHFXK7K1OE-Vo47ISACNcBGAsYHQ/s1030/James%2BMarcus%2Bin%2BSadie%2BThompson.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1030" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TrSj_zmBVv4/X2zvE0v_72I/AAAAAAAAF1A/PNmiXLUX-8MM02gNHFXK7K1OE-Vo47ISACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/James%2BMarcus%2Bin%2BSadie%2BThompson.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>And speaking of Gloria Swanson, here’s Ruth with the famed screen star (along with tennis great Bill Tilden) in October of 1926, three all-time legends in one photograph:</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DFcU_qh_WCI/X2-5r9fSbDI/AAAAAAAAGPc/aFEqWJsyjJ8yoVGj3D3KMMspmu5QY7p4QCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/swanson-tilden-and-ruth.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DFcU_qh_WCI/X2-5r9fSbDI/AAAAAAAAGPc/aFEqWJsyjJ8yoVGj3D3KMMspmu5QY7p4QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/swanson-tilden-and-ruth.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q7B5Y_sKrDs/X2zuwbskx2I/AAAAAAAAF00/e0R4lsAEOs052FmPcn6f3tH7Y-ktvh--ACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/03-48.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q7B5Y_sKrDs/X2zuwbskx2I/AAAAAAAAF00/e0R4lsAEOs052FmPcn6f3tH7Y-ktvh--ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/03-48.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 03:48</span>
</p><p>Ruth Taylor played Mildred Tobin, the object of Babe’s affection. Taylor had a very minor film career and should not be confused with a different actress of the same name who had a mildly successful career from 1925 to 1930 and starred as Lorelei Lee in the original, silent movie version of “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” (1928).</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gvEcm2lTNJ8/X2zwIKOA-JI/AAAAAAAAF1M/AflQ9SOdkg4wHlfDKfs0-RMNYn8L8-79wCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/04-12.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gvEcm2lTNJ8/X2zwIKOA-JI/AAAAAAAAF1M/AflQ9SOdkg4wHlfDKfs0-RMNYn8L8-79wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/04-12.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 03:40</span>
<p></p><p>21-year-old Ralf Harolde made his film debut as John Tobin, the son of Cyrus and brother of Mildred. Harolde went on to fashion the most successful film career of anyone in “Headin’ Home,” landing roles in movies such as “I’m No Angel” with Cary Grant (1933), “The Sea Wolf” with Edward G. Robinson (1941), and “Murder, My Sweet” with Dick Powell (1944). He may be best remembered for his portrayal of Dr. Milton Ranger in the pre-code classic “Night Nurse” (1931) starring Barbara Stanwyck, Joan Blondell, and Clark Gable. Harolde’s final movie appearance came in “A New Kind of Love” (1963) starring Paul Newman. The film happens to feature a two-minute baseball-related scene that I discuss in <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2017/12/baseball-in-new-kind-of-love.html" target="_blank">my blog post titled “Baseball in ‘A New Kind of Love.’”</a> It’s wonderful that baseball played a role in both the first and last movies in which Harolde appeared.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TPrtAHjABic/X2zwfEtw1lI/AAAAAAAAF1Y/nFkaMTfA2ZABuGGvAFIBr4oxJkpJ8hTfwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/09-09.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TPrtAHjABic/X2zwfEtw1lI/AAAAAAAAF1Y/nFkaMTfA2ZABuGGvAFIBr4oxJkpJ8hTfwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/09-09.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 09:09</span>
<p></p><p>Walter Lawrence plays Tony Marino, the town barber and manager of the Haverlock baseball team. Lawrence, whose cinema claim to fame was an uncredited role in “Citizen Kane” starring Orson Welles (1941), is seen here pouring liquor into a bottle labeled “Bay Rum,” a typical aftershave of the era.</p>
<p>Prohibition began early the previous year with the ratification of the 18th Amendment on January 16, 1919, but the teeth behind the amendment, the Volstead Act, was not passed until October 28, 1919. Perhaps this is why the barber is hiding his hooch, or perhaps he is simply trying to avoid having his wife catch him drinking.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9juEv5iqPOc/X2zwjoa4BZI/AAAAAAAAF1c/Yqhmxrnme_gw0O3tQFs8DD2KSKElCDtwwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/10-07.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9juEv5iqPOc/X2zwjoa4BZI/AAAAAAAAF1c/Yqhmxrnme_gw0O3tQFs8DD2KSKElCDtwwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/10-07.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 10:07</span>
<p></p><p>Harry Knight, the local team’s new pitcher, was played by William Sheer in what turned out to be the last appearance of his brief film career. Five years earlier, Sheer had a role in Raoul Walsh’s “The Regeneration” (1915), a flick that coincidentally featured James Marcus and a 27-year-old Anna Q. Nilsson. A dozen years later, Nilsson (seen in a publicity still below) starred opposite Ruth in his only other major role in a feature film, “Babe Comes Home” (1927).</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LeJmnQLV1KM/X2-7OXMkb6I/AAAAAAAAGPo/0OVVpgSK5XIG23OWmjg9_NNzPb7kpBTFgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/babe-comes-home.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="632" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LeJmnQLV1KM/X2-7OXMkb6I/AAAAAAAAGPo/0OVVpgSK5XIG23OWmjg9_NNzPb7kpBTFgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/babe-comes-home.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Other actors featured in the “Headin’ Home” included:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4AX0JOhV47c/X2zxTyNVOpI/AAAAAAAAF1s/213KL_hExIQO6yFnrzS8fVvEHDNWsOC1wCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/31-24.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4AX0JOhV47c/X2zxTyNVOpI/AAAAAAAAF1s/213KL_hExIQO6yFnrzS8fVvEHDNWsOC1wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/31-24.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 31:24</span>
<p></p><p>Ann Brody as Tony Marino’s wife. The above still comes from a sequence about 30 minutes into the film, in which the barber’s wife is seen cleaning various bottles in her husband’s barber shop. The two bottles at right are labeled “Bay Rum” (this is the one that we earlier saw Tony use to stash his alcohol) and “Witch Hazel.” <br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PCdOq9VkPL0/X2zyI1p-mTI/AAAAAAAAF14/HCDoGkK5ZLgT5Jbq3qd3qRH6hBZsChqmwCNcBGAsYHQ/s975/antique%2Bbarber%2Bbottles%2B-%2BBay%2BRum%2Band%2BWitch%2BHazel.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="975" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PCdOq9VkPL0/X2zyI1p-mTI/AAAAAAAAF14/HCDoGkK5ZLgT5Jbq3qd3qRH6hBZsChqmwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/antique%2Bbarber%2Bbottles%2B-%2BBay%2BRum%2Band%2BWitch%2BHazel.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Happily, as seen above, I was able to find a modern photograph of bottles that appear to be from the very same set.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BWKWQF9j5WE/X2zyNtXxMXI/AAAAAAAAF18/FP5TOxayrdQ1ThurT4PNGXi3HFhzZznGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/11-58.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BWKWQF9j5WE/X2zyNtXxMXI/AAAAAAAAF18/FP5TOxayrdQ1ThurT4PNGXi3HFhzZznGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/11-58.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 11:58</span>
<p></p><p>Charles Burt (also known as Charles Byer) as Haverlock’s new pastor, Dave Talmadge.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6cZv32NcJeM/X2z7nrcBOQI/AAAAAAAAF2M/csBeJJE-gXIAwb4IYpFXqJsqDwJsRbCcACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/16-25.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6cZv32NcJeM/X2z7nrcBOQI/AAAAAAAAF2M/csBeJJE-gXIAwb4IYpFXqJsqDwJsRbCcACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/16-25.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 16:25</span>
<p></p><p>Ricca Allen as Almira Worters, an older woman with a secret love for Babe.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nd7jvF76TH8/X2z7t9igdHI/AAAAAAAAF2Q/XxiL-kGsWck4lcoaipZsKyx41-zK0zShwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/04-48.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nd7jvF76TH8/X2z7t9igdHI/AAAAAAAAF2Q/XxiL-kGsWck4lcoaipZsKyx41-zK0zShwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/04-48.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 04:48</span>
<p></p><p>George Halpin as Doc Hedges, the hapless dog catcher.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pQ73yhgxrPA/X2z7zeeYCoI/AAAAAAAAF2U/nQPYeR1NvKcjAMy_QuBYSKBbQ7EN32hmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/44-01.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pQ73yhgxrPA/X2z7zeeYCoI/AAAAAAAAF2U/nQPYeR1NvKcjAMy_QuBYSKBbQ7EN32hmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/44-01.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 44:01</span>
<p></p><p>Sammy Blum as Jimbo Jones.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UnyFxUMsJ7Y/X2z73FBRmfI/AAAAAAAAF2c/VbafZv4sqfckmEl-pMMTZIXbkU1n0bpPQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/15-04.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UnyFxUMsJ7Y/X2z73FBRmfI/AAAAAAAAF2c/VbafZv4sqfckmEl-pMMTZIXbkU1n0bpPQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/15-04.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 15:04</span>
<p></p><p>And Tom Corcoran as Deacon Flack.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Train Station</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-TXYXho8zk/X2z-JFmUwkI/AAAAAAAAF2s/ylPO1Mp4Mz0_Ooojl5o7UZ-qo_foPmrhgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/09-52.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-o-TXYXho8zk/X2z-JFmUwkI/AAAAAAAAF2s/ylPO1Mp4Mz0_Ooojl5o7UZ-qo_foPmrhgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/09-52.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 09:52</span>
<p></p><p>In this scene, the Haverlock townsfolk come out to the train station to welcome Harry Knight. The pitcher steps off the train, walks over to the eager crowd, and promptly plops down his luggage bearing the initials “T.C.” Just what “T.C.” stands for is a mystery, but it certainly doesn’t stand for Harry Knight! I can only assume that the movie makers paid very little attention to this level of detail, but can’t help but wonder if the luggage actually belonged to actor Tom Cameron.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FQ-beHZvrPI/X2z-d-jc4aI/AAAAAAAAF20/U2inP1m5WawiTT9vGBvvlCasySQKws0DACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Valley%2BCottage%2BRailroad%2BStation.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="547" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FQ-beHZvrPI/X2z-d-jc4aI/AAAAAAAAF20/U2inP1m5WawiTT9vGBvvlCasySQKws0DACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Valley%2BCottage%2BRailroad%2BStation.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>This scene (as well as a few subsequent train station scenes) was shot at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/482+Kings+Hwy,+Valley+Cottage,+NY+10989/@41.1194254,-73.9513686,16.47z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c210d21a38dd:0xfac4ae937d30ee82!8m2!3d41.119436!4d-73.950023" target="_blank">railroad station in Valley Cottage, New York</a>, located about five miles south of Haverstraw and pictured in the image above.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">A Missing Scene</h2>
<p>At about 10:50 into the KINO version of “Headin’ Home” there is missing a brief and relatively unnecessary sequence involving Babe and Pigtails. Thankfully, the scene can be found in the version at archive.org. Here are the key moments:</p><p></p><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V2DLt-TMb9M/X20Dhg6k7UI/AAAAAAAAF5A/brxllKlvEwsCO6pL-VPMoHfSYWOqmRZ8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-1.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-V2DLt-TMb9M/X20Dhg6k7UI/AAAAAAAAF5A/brxllKlvEwsCO6pL-VPMoHfSYWOqmRZ8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p></p><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1OueqpF3C0M/X20DhloDyAI/AAAAAAAAF5I/CQipeeP61QAUGbkd9HFr43E3vaT4hx6iACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-2.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1OueqpF3C0M/X20DhloDyAI/AAAAAAAAF5I/CQipeeP61QAUGbkd9HFr43E3vaT4hx6iACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p></p><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YP3Af_w5pTI/X20DhmBLYZI/AAAAAAAAF5E/28tYj55g04I3fzIrgCpL09Q5z2ZBjQhkACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-3.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YP3Af_w5pTI/X20DhmBLYZI/AAAAAAAAF5E/28tYj55g04I3fzIrgCpL09Q5z2ZBjQhkACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p></p><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zDl9XBwx7c/X20DhyDm2kI/AAAAAAAAF5M/SaFs8ucjD1Q7DjWQlar6Fnw3KVgNX0QqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-4.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--zDl9XBwx7c/X20DhyDm2kI/AAAAAAAAF5M/SaFs8ucjD1Q7DjWQlar6Fnw3KVgNX0QqgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-4.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p></p><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1R4DDTQGdY/X20Dhx89_HI/AAAAAAAAF5Q/4EKF3w4ZJ9MHD8oWnqyf2xGx8X_Y8-fLgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-5.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z1R4DDTQGdY/X20Dhx89_HI/AAAAAAAAF5Q/4EKF3w4ZJ9MHD8oWnqyf2xGx8X_Y8-fLgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-5.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p></p><p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yJroplhV7Ds/X20Dh7ztKoI/AAAAAAAAF5U/lD5q5ARhmjksdM3wH5sfQbd_MSoF7EzrACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-6.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yJroplhV7Ds/X20Dh7ztKoI/AAAAAAAAF5U/lD5q5ARhmjksdM3wH5sfQbd_MSoF7EzrACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-6.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p></p><p>
</p><p>The above title card then sets up the next scene, in which people are decorating the interior of the church. This ends the missing section.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe and Mildred Meet on the Street</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vQZh7Cd-uTs/X20F5kFVEbI/AAAAAAAAF5s/UUbb44zI5fkdIRMb2_9WFGfnYgRJnqB7ACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/12-31.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vQZh7Cd-uTs/X20F5kFVEbI/AAAAAAAAF5s/UUbb44zI5fkdIRMb2_9WFGfnYgRJnqB7ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/12-31.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 12:31</span>
<p></p><p>For a brief moment, Mildred is seen walking in front of a distinctive low wall with a brick and stone building in the background.</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Xws6Uc_rLU/X20IDtBKICI/AAAAAAAAF54/icJiqSLY-fEvNEx2XOkm7uyBcVoOqZYTwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Fowler%2BLibrary%2Bpostcard.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="502" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Xws6Uc_rLU/X20IDtBKICI/AAAAAAAAF54/icJiqSLY-fEvNEx2XOkm7uyBcVoOqZYTwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Fowler%2BLibrary%2Bpostcard.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The building was the Fowler Library, located on the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Haverstraw+King%27s+Daughters+Library+Village+Branch/@41.1961772,-73.9626665,18z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46d3ca30223:0xbfb0598de4bf7331!8m2!3d41.1965694!4d-73.9606312" target="_blank">corner of Main Street and Allison Avenue</a> and today the home of the Village Branch of the King’s Daughters Library:</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0rUJbbmOCEs/X20IOZ86auI/AAAAAAAAF58/m1DkTKEPIzATnAa93bgS0x-KY8CDZizJQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Fowler%2BLibrary%2Btoday.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="477" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0rUJbbmOCEs/X20IOZ86auI/AAAAAAAAF58/m1DkTKEPIzATnAa93bgS0x-KY8CDZizJQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Fowler%2BLibrary%2Btoday.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Note the identical brickwork and alternating-sized stonework, a style that is found in a number of other Haverstraw buildings, including many seen in the movie.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DQMFAJxg_F0/X20I5SON_TI/AAAAAAAAF6M/VdvA3a9sVXA-gu7Wik5yvg0p2UTcMsPbwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/12-35.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DQMFAJxg_F0/X20I5SON_TI/AAAAAAAAF6M/VdvA3a9sVXA-gu7Wik5yvg0p2UTcMsPbwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/12-35.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 12:35</span>
<p></p><p>Babe greets Mildred in a sequence that was also specifically shot for a publicity still and turned into a lobby card. (Note the small boy seen at far left, surreptitiously looking on.)</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IbHabaL95Ok/X20KiGMt9HI/AAAAAAAAF6o/k_h-8VtMmhAcsHq5s09MNKqtNRNFsyJmgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/First%2BChristian%2BChurch.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="572" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IbHabaL95Ok/X20KiGMt9HI/AAAAAAAAF6o/k_h-8VtMmhAcsHq5s09MNKqtNRNFsyJmgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/First%2BChristian%2BChurch.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>My best guess is that this building was on the north side of Main Street, just west of the library. If so, it might be the same building that now is home to the First Christian Church of the Good Shepherd at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/79+Main+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1963269,-73.9622924,18z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46d17e9fde7:0x149bd78afa09f7ea!8m2!3d41.1966075!4d-73.9610781" target="_blank">79 Main Street</a>. Today the exterior of that building has plastic siding, but the Main Street door seems to be in the same spot as that seen in “Headin’ Home,” as is the opening where Mildred and Babe meet.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Bank Building</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7bzBAtoVnI/X20jTgDpQ-I/AAAAAAAAF60/q6FeQXoDYbEo1_Ap4V_Odfh6EnHJNykkACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/13-00.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p7bzBAtoVnI/X20jTgDpQ-I/AAAAAAAAF60/q6FeQXoDYbEo1_Ap4V_Odfh6EnHJNykkACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/13-00.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 13:00</span>
<p></p><p>In this scene, Harry Knight enters Cyrus Tobin’s bank to go to work as a cashier. The building was actually the Peoples’ Bank of Haverstraw and one can still see it at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Family+Store/@41.1966733,-73.9651217,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46dc2c7177f:0x31f4fc91518e0683!8m2!3d41.1966723!4d-73.9645745" target="_blank">intersection of New Main Street and Broadway</a>. As the First National Bank of Haverstraw was located on the opposite corner, the location was (and still is) known as “Bank Corner.” Today, the beautiful building houses a convenience store.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sOkoqTnMUbk/X20kBl4GLAI/AAAAAAAAF68/pZaxjaCHYkwCMkTVcPF8Sx6ITqf7AIP-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s557/Bank%2BBuilding.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="557" data-original-width="487" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sOkoqTnMUbk/X20kBl4GLAI/AAAAAAAAF68/pZaxjaCHYkwCMkTVcPF8Sx6ITqf7AIP-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Bank%2BBuilding.jpg" width="400" /></a><p></p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe’s Adventures Delivering Ice</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XBIXDg-A_JU/X20k_7bUliI/AAAAAAAAF7I/3Xw9PUk-wIssSIKY7pkd28tlBoasFkyPwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/13-19.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XBIXDg-A_JU/X20k_7bUliI/AAAAAAAAF7I/3Xw9PUk-wIssSIKY7pkd28tlBoasFkyPwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/13-19.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 13:19</span>
<p></p><p>Babe is supposed to be delivering ice to the church for the Old Home Week celebration, but he gets sidetracked and ends up playing a game with five other men. The game was a now-obscure, but then very popular playground pastime known as Hole Ball, Roll Ball, Pot Ball, Cap Ball, Roly Poly, as well as a number of racially offensive names such as African Infant, Black Baby, and Nigger Baby.</p>
<p>Here are the rules of the game, according to <i>Chandler’s Encyclopedia</i> from 1898:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S9Y6pNWGpMo/X20lGWTyVsI/AAAAAAAAF7M/c1_3Lk_2X6sxzl9CjQ2HLE1Y6oLST9alwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Nigger%2BBaby%2Bin%2BChandler%2527s%2BEncyclopedia.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="339" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-S9Y6pNWGpMo/X20lGWTyVsI/AAAAAAAAF7M/c1_3Lk_2X6sxzl9CjQ2HLE1Y6oLST9alwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Nigger%2BBaby%2Bin%2BChandler%2527s%2BEncyclopedia.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>Chandler’s Encyclopedia</i>, 1896</span>
<p></p><p>Note that an important part of the game was to throw the ball at an opponent, either during play or as a form of punishment after one of the participants was eliminated. The name “Nigger Baby” was not only applied to this game, but also to a game popular at fairs and carnivals in the late 19th and first half of the 20th centuries. For example, in the summer of 1886, the <i>Chicago Tribune</i> described some games played at a picnic for the local Butchers and Grocers Clerks Association:</p>
<p></p><blockquote>Of course, there were the shooting-gallery and the “nigger baby” ball-rack, a man or woman being awarded or punished with a villanous [sic] cigar for every “baby” knocked over with a base-ball. Some of the girls created no little laughter by their funny attempts to throw a ball straight.</blockquote><p></p>
<p>The term “nigger baby” even found its way into the lexicon of baseball itself, as a synonym for a pitched ball that hit a batter. For example, in the August 15, 1915, issue of <i>San Francisco Examiner</i>, sportswriter Al C. Joy described action from a Pacific Coast League game between the Salt Lake City Bees and San Francisco Seals as follows:</p>
<p></p><blockquote>... With one out in the fourth, [Bees pitcher Jack] Killalay tossed up the nigger-baby ball and it smote [Seals shortstop Roy] Corhan somewhere in the neighborhood of the spare ribs. He rambled to first base and remained there while two batsmen lifted flies to outfielders. And then he caught up with Killalay in the vicinity of third base and there were remarks.</blockquote><p></p>
<p>But back to the movie, in this scene we see that there are six holes in the ground, but there are just five players. As the game required that there be one player for each hole, the group of young men recruited Babe to be that sixth player.</p>
<p>Later we see one of the players roll the ball into the hole assigned to Babe. Once it does, Babe grabs the ball as the rest of the players scatter. When Babe attempts to throw the ball at an opponent, he misses his target, accidentally breaks the window of a nearby business, and sheepishly slinks away.</p>
<p>In the middle of this scene, in the “Reel Baseball” version of the film, there is a cut to a brief, eight-second sequence in which we see Cyrus Tobin and Harry Knight in front of the Tobin home. It is my belief that this sequence is out of place (perhaps long ago spliced back into the wrong location in the film after some minor damage), as it makes more sense as taking place after the next scene.
</p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rFbFUrgTuAQ/X20mAb6vFLI/AAAAAAAAF7c/ZGYK3BSQhk4m3EyIk-GMgxCQZ7kGMKlcACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/14-29.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rFbFUrgTuAQ/X20mAb6vFLI/AAAAAAAAF7c/ZGYK3BSQhk4m3EyIk-GMgxCQZ7kGMKlcACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/14-29.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 14:29</span>
</p><p></p><p>As Babe continues with his ice delivery, he once again has his attention diverted, this time as he passes the local baseball diamond. The same young men with whom Babe played Hole Ball are now playing baseball.</p>
<p>The small park was known as Eckerson Field (sometimes called “Eckerson’s Field”), but at the time it was often referred to as “the Polo Grounds,” an especially ironic nickname given that Ruth’s Yankees played in the “real” Polo Grounds some 25 miles to the south. The quaint ballpark with its simple grandstand was located at the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Haverstraw+Elementary+School/@41.198402,-73.9673573,18z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46efb5a74a5:0xe743e2add571559d!8m2!3d41.1983034!4d-73.9665132" target="_blank">current site of Haverstraw Elementary School, just north of the intersection of Lincoln Street and Maple Avenue</a>.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJQ6V7drk6s/X20mE6aBnEI/AAAAAAAAF7g/hpamRPgmc_I3Txe9KoWEx3Vyv3bOGMjogCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/14-32.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HJQ6V7drk6s/X20mE6aBnEI/AAAAAAAAF7g/hpamRPgmc_I3Txe9KoWEx3Vyv3bOGMjogCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/14-32.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 14:32</span>
<p></p><p>The house in right center field, seen here directly behind (and partially obscured by) Babe’s head, can still be found at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/1+Ridge+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1989839,-73.9669383,18.64z/data=!4m13!1m7!3m6!1s0x89c2c46e974aaae7:0x3a4f0e714004caed!2sRidge+St+%26+Partition+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927!3b1!8m2!3d41.1989646!4d-73.9661974!3m4!1s0x89c2c46e96e6d63b:0xfbe1a68c58593262!8m2!3d41.1990606!4d-73.9663276" target="_blank">the corner of Partition and Ridge Streets</a>:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Sb6yR-UpWE/X20oCxbxpcI/AAAAAAAAF7w/PtbzHS8uhngiIFCRlYj8-Rheq7e9lRSgwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/1-ridge-street.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="562" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_Sb6yR-UpWE/X20oCxbxpcI/AAAAAAAAF7w/PtbzHS8uhngiIFCRlYj8-Rheq7e9lRSgwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-ridge-street.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The small grandstand of the park is shown during this same scene in a shot looking south from center field.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6zzdC9XS_8/X20opO4fGhI/AAAAAAAAF74/_XIw6S0mkNAfL9t1p_fY5hiVRAWen8m8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/14-41.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q6zzdC9XS_8/X20opO4fGhI/AAAAAAAAF74/_XIw6S0mkNAfL9t1p_fY5hiVRAWen8m8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/14-41.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 14:41</span>
<p></p><p>Today, the shot would be obscured by the elementary school.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GCcWQMxgXg/X20owSk0yZI/AAAAAAAAF78/k7RUlFPN45c6Qo91lybCW9s4P1TP4Nl8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/15-33.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GCcWQMxgXg/X20owSk0yZI/AAAAAAAAF78/k7RUlFPN45c6Qo91lybCW9s4P1TP4Nl8wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/15-33.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 15:33</span>
<p></p><p>As Babe continues on his way to the church, he passes the Tobin home as Pastor Talmadge, Cyrus Tobin, and Harry Knight look on. This is where I believe the previously mentioned mis-spliced sequence should have been placed.</p>
<p>In 1920, this <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/44+First+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1953178,-73.9616889,17.92z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c472a71a1f87:0x73e0f4cbfdd4053!8m2!3d41.1946618!4d-73.9604582" target="_blank">house at 44 First Street </a>(one long block south of the Fowler Library) was occupied by the family of William and Camille Welch.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lDeGjhsVWM8/X20qLmCzN-I/AAAAAAAAF8U/26KBipinlxElQh_DMjo2GhHZ3qUYCdQvQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/44-first-street.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lDeGjhsVWM8/X20qLmCzN-I/AAAAAAAAF8U/26KBipinlxElQh_DMjo2GhHZ3qUYCdQvQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/44-first-street.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The house still stands today. Note that the large bay window and distinctive iron fence seen in the above modern-day photo are identical to that seen in the “Headin’ Home” still.<br /></p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Church Exterior</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDZoR476iSs/X20rjYc4oYI/AAAAAAAAF8g/1ydeJNWDdOoF5aWtQsrGXgDsTqgS-HZEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/15-38.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bDZoR476iSs/X20rjYc4oYI/AAAAAAAAF8g/1ydeJNWDdOoF5aWtQsrGXgDsTqgS-HZEwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/15-38.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 15:38</span>
<p></p><p>Here we see Babe finally arriving at the church with his much-diminished block of ice. But the camera set-up for the shot is curious. Why is the tree taking up a large portion of the frame? And why does Babe ultimately enter the church by going down the side walkway? And for those paying close attention, why do the front windows of the church feature Stars of David in the glasswork?</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XAdZtE4tT3s/X20sJoLZJiI/AAAAAAAAF8o/VAJu3qwXiZkahj44-H9Z6miqxXpVS--FwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1266/Sons%2Bof%2BJacob%2BSynagogue%2Bpostcard.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1266" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XAdZtE4tT3s/X20sJoLZJiI/AAAAAAAAF8o/VAJu3qwXiZkahj44-H9Z6miqxXpVS--FwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Sons%2Bof%2BJacob%2BSynagogue%2Bpostcard.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The reason why is that we are seeing not a church, but the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/37+Clove+Ave,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1958157,-73.9670428,18z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46e1eafb29b:0x1de4bc014dc2990f!8m2!3d41.1957812!4d-73.9667031" target="_blank">Sons of Jacob Synagogue that still stands at 37 Clove Avenue</a> in Haverstraw. Though very much altered, the building still exists today.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L5K8pD5OIto/X20t2Gdjm1I/AAAAAAAAF9E/SfJ0B1XqXbQjgpYc8RQgfASD15HIMzFpQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Sons%2Bof%2BJacob%2Bphoto.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="423" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-L5K8pD5OIto/X20t2Gdjm1I/AAAAAAAAF9E/SfJ0B1XqXbQjgpYc8RQgfASD15HIMzFpQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Sons%2Bof%2BJacob%2Bphoto.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>
The synagogue’s wood siding, lower brick-work, stairway, and windows in the postcard are identical to those seen in the still. Even the tree at left is the same as seen in the movie. It seems likely that in the film this very tree was used to obscure the more prominent Stars of David, one just above the front door and a larger one in a circular window even higher up.</p>
<p>What remains a mystery to me is why the film makers used this synagogue as a stand-in for the church and went to the trouble of obscuring its exterior, when there were numerous actual churches in town that could seemingly do the job more simply.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Church Interior and Babe’s Bug Bite Part I</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yenuRVP5IN0/X20uPhOY2aI/AAAAAAAAF9M/UqoBDDCAr7ohZm0UBwTCzqZ9tM0nBn4GwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/15-53.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yenuRVP5IN0/X20uPhOY2aI/AAAAAAAAF9M/UqoBDDCAr7ohZm0UBwTCzqZ9tM0nBn4GwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/15-53.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 15:53</span>
<p></p><p>Babe enters the church carrying the ice in his left hand. For those paying special attention, the rest of the scene is shot in such a way as to quite purposefully avoid showing Ruth’s right hand.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ly1yFyIZVDo/X20uTzZbLiI/AAAAAAAAF9Q/k2pkdjsHcxcspdY4KN6xoZS4dfTKrExmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/16-34.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ly1yFyIZVDo/X20uTzZbLiI/AAAAAAAAF9Q/k2pkdjsHcxcspdY4KN6xoZS4dfTKrExmQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/16-34.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 16:34</span>
<p></p><p>Here his right hand is partially hidden behind a ladder.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUn4UTXlA4g/X20uY24PLzI/AAAAAAAAF9U/i9iEH8gOnigUQ0t1c-9T3UEUZtsaM2_HACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/17-12.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tUn4UTXlA4g/X20uY24PLzI/AAAAAAAAF9U/i9iEH8gOnigUQ0t1c-9T3UEUZtsaM2_HACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/17-12.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 17:12</span>
<p></p><p>And here it is concealed underneath some colorful bunting.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nsDBq4IkaUQ/X20uc5GSgyI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/fPNDAAGsUNEkrxyAVlmD60WwikoZ6F1tQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/18-06.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nsDBq4IkaUQ/X20uc5GSgyI/AAAAAAAAF9Y/fPNDAAGsUNEkrxyAVlmD60WwikoZ6F1tQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/18-06.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 18:06X</span>
<p></p><p>And near the end of the scene his right hand is covered awkwardly by his cap.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTX0o17_ZLo/X20ug740M2I/AAAAAAAAF9g/JGiku7QIyQYOHa5UBb5WubO1aU5mgp3VgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/18-53.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eTX0o17_ZLo/X20ug740M2I/AAAAAAAAF9g/JGiku7QIyQYOHa5UBb5WubO1aU5mgp3VgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/18-53.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 18:53</span>
<p></p><p>But later, outside the church, his right hand is displayed prominently.</p>
<p>What gives?</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21J6dJKnK6Y/X20wX3A6uYI/AAAAAAAAF90/749hlZY6J4kMhGSWX6MRmXVIpBp5g77aACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/STL%2BGlobe%2BDemocrat%2BAugust%2B28%2B1920.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="782" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-21J6dJKnK6Y/X20wX3A6uYI/AAAAAAAAF90/749hlZY6J4kMhGSWX6MRmXVIpBp5g77aACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/STL%2BGlobe%2BDemocrat%2BAugust%2B28%2B1920.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>St. Louis Globe Democrat</i>, August 28, 1920</span>
<p></p><p>In late August, Ruth’s right hand was bitten by a bug. Some sources blame a mosquito, others a wood tick, still others called out a chigger. Whatever the culprit, the wound became infected, and on Friday, August 27, doctors operated on the hand. Apparently the surgery was unsuccessful (or complications ensued), and so on August 30 a second operation was performed. This last bit of knife work must have done the trick, as Ruth was back playing ball on September 2.</p>
<p>The injury did not stop Ruth from working on the film, but it did cost him six games with the Yankees: two against the White Sox, three against the Browns, and one against the Red Sox. And while the half-dozen games didn’t adversely affect the Yankee (they went 4-2 during Babe’s absence), it’s likely that the accident deprived him of a couple of home runs. Still, the slugger ended the season with a whopping 54 homers.</p>
<p>Contemporary sources differ on where Babe was when he was bitten, but all agree that the incident took place while Ruth was filming, not playing ball or otherwise biding his time. As his right hand appears to be fine in the outdoor scenes shot in Haverstraw, it is safe to say that the injury only became an issue afterwards, when most of the indoor scenes were shot at the Biograph Studios. Still, it seems likely that the bite itself occurred in Haverstraw.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Barber Shop</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4XYvRzp4IIY/X20w5Q3OMiI/AAAAAAAAF98/uew8kB-eu7EsjT3rvMD6PVOfOj5e2kZRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/19-49.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4XYvRzp4IIY/X20w5Q3OMiI/AAAAAAAAF98/uew8kB-eu7EsjT3rvMD6PVOfOj5e2kZRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/19-49.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 19:49</span>
<p></p><p>Soon after Babe leaves the church, he tries to break up an argument between Tony Marino and his wife in front of the barber shop. A close examination of the barber pole in this movie still matches well with that seen in the following vintage postcard that shows a view west down New Main Street.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtsTODSufA4/X20yQr0GqaI/AAAAAAAAF-I/w2xcN7opyig7habrKTtCRByBvqUyuOmWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/New%2BMain%2BStreet%2Blooking%2Bwest.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="511" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZtsTODSufA4/X20yQr0GqaI/AAAAAAAAF-I/w2xcN7opyig7habrKTtCRByBvqUyuOmWQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/New%2BMain%2BStreet%2Blooking%2Bwest.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>At right is the Peoples’ Bank building, but on the left side is the barber pole. Here’s a detail from the postcard:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a_VrwQwY1N0/X20yVszrVsI/AAAAAAAAF-M/ELVXFOMiAFgMeUSDes52lUwrpv5L9fWsgCNcBGAsYHQ/s917/New%2BMain%2BStreet%2Bdetail.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="917" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a_VrwQwY1N0/X20yVszrVsI/AAAAAAAAF-M/ELVXFOMiAFgMeUSDes52lUwrpv5L9fWsgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/New%2BMain%2BStreet%2Bdetail.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The pole appears to be just outside the third building on the south side of New Main Street, the one with the slightly yellow-tinted exterior.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rv3HmCizAt8/X20zxyLZMkI/AAAAAAAAF-c/10oXK8iQPdU4FY2np8QXMQFdf_gsXB2-ACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/7%2BNew%2BMain%2BStreet%2Btoday.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rv3HmCizAt8/X20zxyLZMkI/AAAAAAAAF-c/10oXK8iQPdU4FY2np8QXMQFdf_gsXB2-ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/7%2BNew%2BMain%2BStreet%2Btoday.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>A walk down this side of street today reveals that this building at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/7+New+Main+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1963496,-73.9656591,18.44z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46de8a08183:0x4fe3e6680f783321!8m2!3d41.1963392!4d-73.9646442" target="_blank">7 New Main Street</a> is now home to the “Neighborhood Discount 99¢ and Up” convenience store.</p>
<p>The storefront has changed quite a bit. It is almost all glass now, and the front door, formerly positioned at the center of the storefront, is now located at the far left.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MaPx4Lu-Gm8/X20z3XTEfkI/AAAAAAAAF-g/OrLAlqzNle4ZVpg7Fn4l4Piqvjfw8OAhQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/25-54.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MaPx4Lu-Gm8/X20z3XTEfkI/AAAAAAAAF-g/OrLAlqzNle4ZVpg7Fn4l4Piqvjfw8OAhQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/25-54.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 25:54</span>
<p></p><p>But various features seen in a still from approximately six minutes later in the movie match well with the area today. Not only is the slope of the sidewalk similar, but the doorway to the right of the barber shop, with its two steps, looks to be a good match.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7JGHVTOewuo/X20z7MPcYuI/AAAAAAAAF-k/AdmGsNmPLmYO6fkeA62Ydti8eesRd4oRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-05-53.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7JGHVTOewuo/X20z7MPcYuI/AAAAAAAAF-k/AdmGsNmPLmYO6fkeA62Ydti8eesRd4oRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-05-53.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:05:53</span>
<p></p><p>Near the end of the movie, Doc Hedges runs to the barber shop to tell Tony Marino that Babe has come home. Here we can see a bit more of the lettering on the front left window.</p>
<p>At the bottom of the window are the last letters of a word “ORIAL,” followed by the word “PARLOR.” Assuredly this is the phrase “TONSORIAL PARLOR,” a rather dated synonym for “barber shop.”</p>
<p>Above these words are the last letters of an arched word or words: “NO.” Most likely this is the name of the proprietor of the tonsorial parlor. It matches nicely with “Tony Marino,” but of course that is the name of a fictional character. Or was the name Marino chosen because it fit the visible ending of the name for the shop ... or is that giving too much credit to the movie makers who made numerous continuity and consistency errors throughout the film?</p>
<p>A careful examination of census records from 1920 shows that there were actually a pair of barbers in Haverstraw whose last names ended with the letters “NO”: Antonio Viggiano and John Serafino. Perhaps this shop belonged to one of the two?</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe’s Home and Babe’s Bug Bite Part II</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kcKW8imwQXs/X24I9kYsZGI/AAAAAAAAF-4/97m0uonen-0aWF70HL-HcXq1jV-7K0_0wCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/20-36.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kcKW8imwQXs/X24I9kYsZGI/AAAAAAAAF-4/97m0uonen-0aWF70HL-HcXq1jV-7K0_0wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20-36.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 20:36</span>
<p></p><p>Like most every indoor scene, the sequence in which Babe, his mother, Pigtails, and Herman the dog are seen eating at home was filmed not in Haverstraw, but at the Biograph Studios. As was commonly their practice with other production companies at the time, Biograph rented out their facilities to the Yankee Photoplay Corporation.</p><p>Many modern-day sources state that these studios were located in Fort Lee, New Jersey, but by 1920 Biograph had long since left that site, their headquarters at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/807+E+175th+St,+The+Bronx,+NY+10460/@40.8411593,-73.8922565,17z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2f46072de3df9:0x6c93708fc7f3da8c!8m2!3d40.8412078!4d-73.89008" target="_blank">807 East 175th Street in the Bronx</a> having opened in 1913. Here are the Bronx studios as seen in a Sanborn Insurance map from 1921:</p><p></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ62928VnBg/X24JDxDju5I/AAAAAAAAF-8/6VWw5y85IcATtjDNeuAeb0uudkZ8P7tQQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/biograph-studios.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="667" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kJ62928VnBg/X24JDxDju5I/AAAAAAAAF-8/6VWw5y85IcATtjDNeuAeb0uudkZ8P7tQQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/biograph-studios.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Today the studios are long gone, with a new Department of Sanitation building occupying the site.<br /></p><p></p><p>As we first saw in the interior church scene, here again the film director has Ruth hide or otherwise obscure his injured right hand.</p><p>Here he is seen straightening his tie, with only his left side visible to the camera:</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vve2yFmr2d4/X24JNFV0EnI/AAAAAAAAF_E/BAvsrKu1mIgNJLbvY_BsoUqIgSi9jXCCACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/22-47.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vve2yFmr2d4/X24JNFV0EnI/AAAAAAAAF_E/BAvsrKu1mIgNJLbvY_BsoUqIgSi9jXCCACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/22-47.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 22:47</span>
<p></p><p>And in this shot we see that his hand is awkwardly placed below the table as he eats with Pigtails and Herman the dog: <br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rxAU4p_vX4/X24JIUREZFI/AAAAAAAAF_A/as0A3AaDAnk8eTMDB8pvVJel0He_xcVbQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/20-45.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4rxAU4p_vX4/X24JIUREZFI/AAAAAAAAF_A/as0A3AaDAnk8eTMDB8pvVJel0He_xcVbQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/20-45.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 20:45</span>
<p></p><p>But when Babe gets up from the table we briefly see his heavily-bandaged right hand: </p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PCFmd7fhTmk/X24J9p8bBwI/AAAAAAAAF_g/UItwGWgbYuI5gr8JQEFj1AWrmYOGyx1mgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/22-42.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PCFmd7fhTmk/X24J9p8bBwI/AAAAAAAAF_g/UItwGWgbYuI5gr8JQEFj1AWrmYOGyx1mgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/22-42.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 22:42</span>
</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe’s Bug Bite Part III</h2><p>Careful examination of other scenes in the movie also reveal Babe’s bandaged hand. These include:</p><p>When Babe and Almira Worters meet at the church festival: <br /></p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VNMNe8438Nc/X24SG0THDGI/AAAAAAAAF_s/u03iBrdwYeI4YMqj2YG3dUcfz3SBLzGpwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/23-42.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VNMNe8438Nc/X24SG0THDGI/AAAAAAAAF_s/u03iBrdwYeI4YMqj2YG3dUcfz3SBLzGpwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/23-42.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 23:42</span>
<p></p><p>Seconds later when Babe accidentally spills food on Harry Knight:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gYVQyo3ailE/X24SMg7zbUI/AAAAAAAAF_w/fp37dpVQIvsl4Qj6QypTLtYyfm4QaBNVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/23-55.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gYVQyo3ailE/X24SMg7zbUI/AAAAAAAAF_w/fp37dpVQIvsl4Qj6QypTLtYyfm4QaBNVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/23-55.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 23:55</span>
<p></p><p>About half a dozen minutes later, in a scene in which Knight refuses to play on the same team a Babe, we see a small bandage on the back of Ruth’s right hand:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vddreYcEMs/X24SRUNledI/AAAAAAAAF_0/GzhAEPbVP6Q9YZr52nVGFKtJ9XYQ0R4_gCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/29-45.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vddreYcEMs/X24SRUNledI/AAAAAAAAF_0/GzhAEPbVP6Q9YZr52nVGFKtJ9XYQ0R4_gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/29-45.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 29:45</span>
<p></p><p>Perhaps this scene was shot soon after the bite, before the wound became infected. Or it is possible this scene was filmed much later, when Babe’s hand was nearly healed.</p><p>Nearly 50 minutes into the movie, when Babe prepares to leave for Highland, an interior scene at his home also suffers from the director’s need to awkwardly hide Ruth’s injured hand. A “stand in” hand is used to show Babe leaving his $2 advance behind:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9phguSRDlOw/X24SX_fuMJI/AAAAAAAAF_8/PYP7SuChUOo5FcmVnEc0BmBcnakgqLYkQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/49-26.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9phguSRDlOw/X24SX_fuMJI/AAAAAAAAF_8/PYP7SuChUOo5FcmVnEc0BmBcnakgqLYkQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/49-26.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 49:26</span>
<p></p><p>Otherwise it is more of the same, as the camera almost exclusively shows Ruth’s left side and, when not, Pigtails is positioned to obscure his right arm:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vA0hkyu6wVo/X24SemNdgFI/AAAAAAAAGAA/P12WleBM8jMUhPlZdNGnHXJiBl1WSU_TACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/49-39.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vA0hkyu6wVo/X24SemNdgFI/AAAAAAAAGAA/P12WleBM8jMUhPlZdNGnHXJiBl1WSU_TACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/49-39.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 49:39</span>
<p></p><p>Near the end of the movie, an extended interior scene in which Babe is reunited with his mother and sister is carefully choreographed in order to deal with Babe’s injured hand. As before, Pigtails spends much of her time holding (and hiding) Babe’s right hand, but this time Babe’s suitcase is used as a cover:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ViK9O80WdMI/X24SiiJq5DI/AAAAAAAAGAE/hpL-C1O-_fYzgE8DAWWmc2fZCwPSVm6LwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-07-46.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ViK9O80WdMI/X24SiiJq5DI/AAAAAAAAGAE/hpL-C1O-_fYzgE8DAWWmc2fZCwPSVm6LwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-07-46.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:07:46</span>
<p></p><p>At the end of the scene, Babe prepares to leave. Pigtails covers his injured right hand while Babe puts his hat on with his left hand ... but he’s put it on backwards, so he quickly and inelegantly turns it around with his one good hand and tries again.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sAwW4psJC6c/X24Sm2CuymI/AAAAAAAAGAI/Io5mdJ3bRMQ3ReKipm0k7TK8Kdxq7trcACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-07-59.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sAwW4psJC6c/X24Sm2CuymI/AAAAAAAAGAI/Io5mdJ3bRMQ3ReKipm0k7TK8Kdxq7trcACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-07-59.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:07:59</span>
<p></p><p>Why wasn’t this “take” simply scrapped and the end of the scene reshot? The answer is almost assuredly twofold: there was little time and little money.</p><p>Even though Ruth was paid an exorbitant amount of money to take part in the movie, it is abundantly clear that film was produced on a very low budget. No doubt the philosophy of those making the movie was not to worry about putting out a high-quality film, but to create a serviceable flick starring the biggest celebrity around ... and get it done in time for a September opening! As we will see, even without reshooting scenes, they weren’t quite able to pull off that last goal.<br /></p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Stereotyping</h2>
<p>A few scenes in “Headin’ Home” depict long-held racial and cultural stereotypes.</p>
<p>In a short sequence earlier in the movie in which Harry Knight reveals
himself to be a crook and a gambler, a Black porter is seen eyeing
Knight’s dice, falling into the racial stereotype of the African
American as a gambling addict.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QX1sEhGvLz4/X24VtvwgAyI/AAAAAAAAGAg/sQrzkpgHiMg6h25sNd0RQaGjWflCWKzXwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/11-39.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-QX1sEhGvLz4/X24VtvwgAyI/AAAAAAAAGAg/sQrzkpgHiMg6h25sNd0RQaGjWflCWKzXwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/11-39.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 11:39</span>
<p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EGgpNKyFi0E/X24VxobcesI/AAAAAAAAGAk/ERHBwSvgAuYdqnyhdccEbtvucnIbiDflQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/11-34.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EGgpNKyFi0E/X24VxobcesI/AAAAAAAAGAk/ERHBwSvgAuYdqnyhdccEbtvucnIbiDflQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/11-34.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 11:34</span>
</p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cRDOXsgVE1E/X24V1UZK9QI/AAAAAAAAGAo/tzQptc53hU8G0sjKN6uLI7q132xLZKFAQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/11-37.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cRDOXsgVE1E/X24V1UZK9QI/AAAAAAAAGAo/tzQptc53hU8G0sjKN6uLI7q132xLZKFAQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/11-37.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 11:37</span>
</p><p></p><p>I have been unable to identify this actor, but would love to hear from anyone who is can definitively recognize him.</p>
<p>And in a pair of scenes midway through the film, the barber Tony Marino is stereotyped as a garlic-obsessed Italian. First he is upset that his wife fails to add enough garlic to his spaghetti.<br /></p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cmzdaALmFTs/X24V5EvnRwI/AAAAAAAAGAs/R9GHttboMEQY2A7xHdP9wKngbfBzs804wCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/21-37.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cmzdaALmFTs/X24V5EvnRwI/AAAAAAAAGAs/R9GHttboMEQY2A7xHdP9wKngbfBzs804wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/21-37.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 21:37</span>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJDovBUgGlc/X24V9pyvBZI/AAAAAAAAGA0/DlMS1UGjDxEdKsGneOTbpS9IV-eevncIQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/21-51.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rJDovBUgGlc/X24V9pyvBZI/AAAAAAAAGA0/DlMS1UGjDxEdKsGneOTbpS9IV-eevncIQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/21-51.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 21:51</span>
<p></p><p>Then, while singing in the Volunteer Firemen’s Quartette at the church, his breath becomes unbearable for his fellow singers.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4LhWMuVvrWk/X24WFXg7fwI/AAAAAAAAGA8/-kB02bQl2EcgjUAlMosESGaWie-nATVDgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/23-12.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4LhWMuVvrWk/X24WFXg7fwI/AAAAAAAAGA8/-kB02bQl2EcgjUAlMosESGaWie-nATVDgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/23-12.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 23:12</span>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe’s Mother Has a Dream Sequence</h2>
<p>A very brief dream sequence occurs when Babe’s mother gives her boy a pep talk and imagines him playing in the big leagues.
</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AQTJHX22M6M/X24lpKs1i5I/AAAAAAAAGBQ/iRYce9TI4Ls4ikbAx0SEtgI7eCEIQ0kSACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/30-39.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AQTJHX22M6M/X24lpKs1i5I/AAAAAAAAGBQ/iRYce9TI4Ls4ikbAx0SEtgI7eCEIQ0kSACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/30-39.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 30:39</span>
<p></p><p>The few seconds of footage was shot at the Polo Grounds and Babe is seen wearing an armband on his left sleeve. Thus we know that the action must have occurred after August 18, the date that the Yankees first donned the memorial markings for Ray Chapman.</p>
<p>Two additional clues help determine the exact date of the game:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>
The catcher wears stockings with a single, dark thin stripe; and </li><li>There is a large crowd in attendance.</li></ul>
<p>As we’ve already discussed, only two big league clubs wore stockings with a single, dark stripe: the Boston Red Sox and the Philadelphia Athletics. But the Red Sox wore stockings with a thick stripe and their last game in New York that season occurred on July 26, weeks before the Chapman tragedy took place. Philadelphia, however, played three games in New York after August 18: two games on Labor Day, Monday, September 6, and a contest the following day, September 7.</p>
<p>The first and third games of the brief series attracted only 10,000 fans. But the second game on Labor Day saw 30,000 in attendance (some papers even reported figures over 35,000), a crowd that much better matches what we see jamming the stands behind Ruth.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Parade before the Big Game</h2>
<p>Meanwhile, Haverlock prepared for the big game against Highland, which incidentally was (and is) a real town located just four miles north of Haverstraw. In order to film two clubs in action at Eckerson Field, an actual game was arranged to take place on Sunday morning, August 22, at 9:30 a.m. Why the early start time? Because Babe had to finish shooting in time to get back to New York and a 1 p.m. game at the Polo Grounds.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vD0XpM_k0as/X24p7EcF96I/AAAAAAAAGBc/0Akz0Lrcgw0uUQH6SP2cWNvdSFRymfgvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1198/Rockland%2BCounty%2BTimes%2BAugust%2B21%2B1920.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1198" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vD0XpM_k0as/X24p7EcF96I/AAAAAAAAGBc/0Akz0Lrcgw0uUQH6SP2cWNvdSFRymfgvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Rockland%2BCounty%2BTimes%2BAugust%2B21%2B1920.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>Rockland County Times</i>, August 21, 1920</span>
<p></p><p>It must be remembered that in 1920 there was hardly any bigger celebrity in the country than Babe Ruth, and here he was in the small town of Haverstraw, for one and all to see. For all intents and purposes, the day was a holiday in the village.</p><p>Half an hour prior to the scheduled start of the game, a parade was held
(and filmed) in which the actors, the ball clubs, the town’s folk, and
many visitors from out of town participated. <br /></p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XFceyOcKW9w/X24qBe1xUmI/AAAAAAAAGBg/_pYlh4IINvwu09FiC9idTsKMYo2OmyqdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/32-30.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XFceyOcKW9w/X24qBe1xUmI/AAAAAAAAGBg/_pYlh4IINvwu09FiC9idTsKMYo2OmyqdQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/32-30.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 32:30</span>
<p></p><p>The gathering of thousands began in front of the United States Hotel (seen in this vintage postcard), located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/United+States+Postal+Service/@41.1953998,-73.9626003,17.72z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sPost+Office!3m4!1s0x0:0xe3f06a4f86131276!8m2!3d41.1962555!4d-73.9608514" target="_blank">the corner of First and Main Streets</a>, just across from the Fowler Library. Today the site is occupied by the Haverstraw Post Office.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pyecOIYMGb4/X24q1wQPgzI/AAAAAAAAGBw/PRGhIHCdbRgR52AScJnqiYzYWWckcThIgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/united%2Bstates%2Bhotel%2Bpostcard.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="524" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pyecOIYMGb4/X24q1wQPgzI/AAAAAAAAGBw/PRGhIHCdbRgR52AScJnqiYzYWWckcThIgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/united%2Bstates%2Bhotel%2Bpostcard.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Leading the parade was Professor George C. Glassing’s Brass Band, a
local contingent of musicians led by a 54-year old barber (not
professor) whose shop was located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/40+Broadway,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1974835,-73.9658944,18.08z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46c33b11ae5:0x5e6f45c5f3e0e473!8m2!3d41.1979705!4d-73.9645064" target="_blank">40 Broadway</a>, just two blocks north of Bank Corner.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BMUU9u5rT0k/X24q6VpB2hI/AAAAAAAAGB0/dvOWryMQ5iI0W1TRWYmWEMYq8kvqqF5_wCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/Glassing%2527s-Brass-Band.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="272" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BMUU9u5rT0k/X24q6VpB2hI/AAAAAAAAGB0/dvOWryMQ5iI0W1TRWYmWEMYq8kvqqF5_wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Glassing%2527s-Brass-Band.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The parade to the ballpark begins and the throng starts marching forward. </p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YEDQQKBhEFY/X24q_XMEGyI/AAAAAAAAGB4/6S7-mug7Jd0hmW1iSUen3RNr1c_4Kl1cwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/35-23.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YEDQQKBhEFY/X24q_XMEGyI/AAAAAAAAGB4/6S7-mug7Jd0hmW1iSUen3RNr1c_4Kl1cwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/35-23.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 35:23</span>
<p></p><p>It made for a good camera shot, but in actuality the procession is heading in the wrong direction, down Front Street and, if they didn’t stop, into the Hudson River.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bB1VtcuwmY0/X24sTzpAVrI/AAAAAAAAGCI/CD4a7FF3X80a845xtWJ3tWjVl3VcQlwtACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/lobby-card-4.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="634" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bB1VtcuwmY0/X24sTzpAVrI/AAAAAAAAGCI/CD4a7FF3X80a845xtWJ3tWjVl3VcQlwtACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/lobby-card-4.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>In the above lobby card, we see Babe, Pigtails, and Herman the dog, as they prepare to walk to the ballpark. However, something is wrong.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l6_bflmdyuY/X24sYAaJJ4I/AAAAAAAAGCM/_RAVad1Sav8dkVp4etWhLFzdQ5yYUqAZACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/35-27.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l6_bflmdyuY/X24sYAaJJ4I/AAAAAAAAGCM/_RAVad1Sav8dkVp4etWhLFzdQ5yYUqAZACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/35-27.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 35:27</span>
<p></p><p>Above we see a still from the same scene in the film, with the trio as they are about to take part in the parade. Pigtails is at left and Babe at right. Babe holds a bag in his right hand and drags a pair of bat bags with his left. All of this is the exact reverse of what is shown in the lobby card. In fact, careful examination of the buildings on Main Street in the
background of the lobby card show that they are also flipped. Here’s a comparison of the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/41%C2%B011'47.2%22N+73%C2%B057'42.3%22W/@41.196437,-73.9622992,19z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m9!1m2!2m1!3m5!1s0x0:0x0!7e2!8m2!3d41.1964357!4d-73.9617518/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1spost+office+haverstraw+ny!3m4!1s0x0:0xe3f06a4f86131276!8m2!3d41.1962585!4d-73.9608487" target="_blank">locations of three buildings from 64 through 72 Main Street </a>with a reversed version of the lobby card. Note that the facades of the buildings (though now colored differently) match well with those seen in the lobby card.<br /></p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3STTR5uY5IQ/X24wGxy6NgI/AAAAAAAAGCY/8ymbCPC_VVwrx942MO3KqUqJC3eqFjPQgCNcBGAsYHQ/s890/reversed-lobby-card-compar.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="890" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3STTR5uY5IQ/X24wGxy6NgI/AAAAAAAAGCY/8ymbCPC_VVwrx942MO3KqUqJC3eqFjPQgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/reversed-lobby-card-compar.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>And, as a final confirmation that the image on the lobby card has been accidentally reversed, throughout the movie Herman the dog is seen with a dark patch over his left eye, but just the opposite is the case in the lobby card.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">At the Ball Field</h2>
<p>After the previous scenes were shot, the entourage made their way to
Eckerson Field, where the parade was filmed marching in from center field.
</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0bPcUZzm3Ko/X24zOklH9aI/AAAAAAAAGCk/yrTqirlkfho7ogVaPf8NyOsjVNDUTbjvQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/36-06.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0bPcUZzm3Ko/X24zOklH9aI/AAAAAAAAGCk/yrTqirlkfho7ogVaPf8NyOsjVNDUTbjvQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/36-06.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 36:06</span>
<p></p><p>According to local news coverage, four separate cameras were used to capture the action, “two of them great complicated affairs with more wheels, angles and devices than a submarine sounding horoscope on a battleship.”</p>
<p>Far in the background two tall buildings can be seen. At left is the steeple of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/St+Peters+Church/@41.1992534,-73.9689658,17.36z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c4693332c8a7:0x5d1828caf04ad00c!8m2!3d41.2006225!4d-73.9674025" target="_blank">St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church</a>. It doesn’t appear to have changed over the last century:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ws2nThHHOs8/X24zbydUMYI/AAAAAAAAGCs/2id1bfXIE4UpGDJkys_KBZNm79g9V73fQCNcBGAsYHQ/s527/St%2BPeter%2527s%2BChurch.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="527" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ws2nThHHOs8/X24zbydUMYI/AAAAAAAAGCs/2id1bfXIE4UpGDJkys_KBZNm79g9V73fQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/St%2BPeter%2527s%2BChurch.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><p></p>
<p>And near the center of the frame is the distinctive cupola of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/St+Peters+School/@41.1990934,-73.9682493,17.36z/data=!4m8!1m2!2m1!1sSt.+Peter%E2%80%99s+School+haverstraw+ny!3m4!1s0x89c2c46ec0d8bd03:0xb860ad8e23ccdac5!8m2!3d41.1997526!4d-73.9671622" target="_blank">St. Peter’s School and Hall</a>.<br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-wdnS08wAE/X24zhZ8xbnI/AAAAAAAAGCw/U7qlhvSYClMjnAZcvO4Ig9l9ZgXBb-0ngCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/st-peter%2527s-school.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="250" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1-wdnS08wAE/X24zhZ8xbnI/AAAAAAAAGCw/U7qlhvSYClMjnAZcvO4Ig9l9ZgXBb-0ngCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/st-peter%2527s-school.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The building no longer exists, but the vintage postcard above shows what the original building looked like.</p><p>As the parade continued, the players for Haverlock eventually marched
past one of the four cameras. Here we see the players’ jerseys, with an
“H” on their right chest and a diamond-shaped symbol on their left
sleeve. <br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0mf9NFDQ-Vw/X24zlseSqcI/AAAAAAAAGC4/tTgjr75Mae8mWWlsYZSZOWYLhW112YIKACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/36-19.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0mf9NFDQ-Vw/X24zlseSqcI/AAAAAAAAGC4/tTgjr75Mae8mWWlsYZSZOWYLhW112YIKACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/36-19.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 36:19</span>
<p></p><p>The symbol matches that long-used by members of the Knights of Columbus,
and indeed the part of the Haverlock club was played by the Haverstraw
Knights of Columbus baseball team.<br /></p><p></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3IAyvsgXqck/X24zquu33LI/AAAAAAAAGC8/y1Yn0YYIA589nspLQm-FSusGimvISJlqACNcBGAsYHQ/s400/K%2Bof%2BC%2Bemblem.jpeg"><img border="0" data-original-height="399" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3IAyvsgXqck/X24zquu33LI/AAAAAAAAGC8/y1Yn0YYIA589nspLQm-FSusGimvISJlqACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/K%2Bof%2BC%2Bemblem.jpeg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Though Ruth had become a member of the Knights of Columbus the previous year (Pere Marquette Council 271 of South Boston), it is doubtful that he pulled any strings to get them involved in the game. In fact, the overriding reason that both clubs were chosen to participate was that they were the only completely uniformed teams in the nearby area.</p><p>The role of Highland, the other uniformed club, was filled by the
Highland Hose Company, a team that confusingly hailed not from Highland,
New York, but from <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Nyack,+NY+10960/@41.1428539,-74.0036876,12z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2ea1034763185:0xa1fbf284d96ff6aa!8m2!3d41.0906519!4d-73.9179146" target="_blank">Nyack</a>, located 10 miles south of Haverstraw. <br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0o3Kt-mAalE/X24zwe0ZxyI/AAAAAAAAGDA/R5f5z_JTB08O3e86WsYzZFJ7NjEhOZF3wCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/36-30.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0o3Kt-mAalE/X24zwe0ZxyI/AAAAAAAAGDA/R5f5z_JTB08O3e86WsYzZFJ7NjEhOZF3wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/36-30.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 36:30</span>
<p></p><p>Just prior to the beginning of the ballgame, we see a number of disabled
children seating themselves on the third base side of the field. </p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ahVP9ot3l18/X24z0IgJbzI/AAAAAAAAGDI/OzItM2dPu3EbtBQsmTLi0o75HCpJoXqeQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/37-00.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ahVP9ot3l18/X24z0IgJbzI/AAAAAAAAGDI/OzItM2dPu3EbtBQsmTLi0o75HCpJoXqeQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/37-00.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 37:00</span>
<p></p><p>These are youths from the New York State Hospital for the Care of Crippled and Deformed Children in nearby West Haverstraw, the facility depicted in this postcard from 1920:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rKMWYrj7eAM/X240SGJMCQI/AAAAAAAAGDU/yFmSUvzb2Zs0yk5PJ32zj_sM5k9kEtHTgCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/West%2BHaverstraw%2BHospital.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="256" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rKMWYrj7eAM/X240SGJMCQI/AAAAAAAAGDU/yFmSUvzb2Zs0yk5PJ32zj_sM5k9kEtHTgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/West%2BHaverstraw%2BHospital.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Though the movie makes no attempt to weave their story into the film, it is appropriate that these young boys were included, as Babe had a genuine affection for children, most especially those who were underprivileged or disadvantaged. In another lobby card for the movie, we see Ruth on the diamond at Eckerson Field showing his baseball bat to these same children:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nl6D5Qw25N0/X2-cNEoLbXI/AAAAAAAAGNQ/a53cAHVEjyIJ1rE1ev4qDGHKmAxyCPYQACNcBGAsYHQ/s750/with%2Bkids.jpe"><img border="0" data-original-height="583" data-original-width="750" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nl6D5Qw25N0/X2-cNEoLbXI/AAAAAAAAGNQ/a53cAHVEjyIJ1rE1ev4qDGHKmAxyCPYQACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/with%2Bkids.jpe" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Today, the State Hospital is known as the <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Helen+Hayes+Hospital/@41.2061765,-73.9861694,14.47z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c4f6b04c41a7:0x275524bf81c3cf83!8m2!3d41.2141474!4d-73.9882479" target="_blank">Helen Hayes Hospital, a physical rehabilitation facility still located in West Haverstraw</a> and named for the famous actress who was a longtime resident of Nyack and whose daughter Mary died of polio in 1949.</p><p>Despite fans being charged 50 cents to attend the game and another half
dollar to sit in the cramped grandstand, it is likely that Eckerson
Field never saw a crowd of this size.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3gseqkxjfx0/X240bqDzKJI/AAAAAAAAGDc/_-BAbB4intYeAMFYpvdXEmcsCPqwN6aTgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/37-30.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3gseqkxjfx0/X240bqDzKJI/AAAAAAAAGDc/_-BAbB4intYeAMFYpvdXEmcsCPqwN6aTgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/37-30.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 37:30</span>
<p></p><p>With Professor Glassing’s Brass Band in the background, Babe steps up to
the plate. Crouching behind home for Haverlock was the regular catcher
for the Haverstraw K. of C. team, Bert Arlington. Behind him, taking on
the umpiring duties for the game was Homer Lydecker of Nyack.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vbaEiNOIqU/X240fuXkLjI/AAAAAAAAGDg/vzX_RUp-4MEBtQzoj1U6KC3eb2PPhC_VACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/37-36.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6vbaEiNOIqU/X240fuXkLjI/AAAAAAAAGDg/vzX_RUp-4MEBtQzoj1U6KC3eb2PPhC_VACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/37-36.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 37:36</span>
<p></p><p>After the game, Ruth posed for a photograph with the entire Haverlock/Haverstraw team.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8e7V70pzGg/X242kW0tV-I/AAAAAAAAGD4/twx8FSmRwdkDyZ7GuLWhE6F9N-cetAmEgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Haverstraw-baseball-team-po.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="428" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q8e7V70pzGg/X242kW0tV-I/AAAAAAAAGD4/twx8FSmRwdkDyZ7GuLWhE6F9N-cetAmEgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Haverstraw-baseball-team-po.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Standing (left to right) are Jack Anderson, Frank Hessian, Al Schnaars, James Finegan (manager), Ruth, Richard Shankey, Victor Shankey, Jack Scully, John Cook, Thomas Shankey, Martin Hurley, and Vincent Lynch. Seated (left to right) are Walter Bedell, Bob Arlington, William Bogasky, and Bert Arlington.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe Breaks His Bat</h2>
<p>Note that in this still Babe holds his bat as he sometimes did during his career, choking up about an inch or two:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZQQnAB2iY0/X246syYfZ4I/AAAAAAAAGEE/hK1tdKFrJX4MZPoPOPx0eJDxb_DjKgx8ACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/37-46.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IZQQnAB2iY0/X246syYfZ4I/AAAAAAAAGEE/hK1tdKFrJX4MZPoPOPx0eJDxb_DjKgx8ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/37-46.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 37:46</span>
<p></p><p>However, in the climax to the ball game, in the ninth inning with the score tied 14-14 and Babe at the plate, we see him choking up to a ridiculous extreme:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yJ3jfXvEyYU/X246xUV2LFI/AAAAAAAAGEI/yL2x9EPEadoo1UStsAyP3vZn9kUtj_zvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/42-44.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yJ3jfXvEyYU/X246xUV2LFI/AAAAAAAAGEI/yL2x9EPEadoo1UStsAyP3vZn9kUtj_zvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/42-44.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 42:44</span>
<p></p><p>This is because the movie prop staff had partially sawed through Ruth’s bat near the middle. By gripping the bat just above the cut, he could swing and miss without the bat snapping in two. But for this scene, after swinging and missing, Babe feigns frustration and slams the bat on the plate, with the wood easily breaking at the cut.
</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EHsw7vG5GsA/X2464PhYgUI/AAAAAAAAGEM/ijqUfl_EjPolvO2zEasPQj0P-HwbwO8vACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/42-49-a.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EHsw7vG5GsA/X2464PhYgUI/AAAAAAAAGEM/ijqUfl_EjPolvO2zEasPQj0P-HwbwO8vACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/42-49-a.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 42:49</span><p></p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4EmcUDWrnY/X2464Is8T-I/AAAAAAAAGEQ/GpvzTw2jNigWxio2DABkGqnwNIOFKCezwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/42-49-b.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T4EmcUDWrnY/X2464Is8T-I/AAAAAAAAGEQ/GpvzTw2jNigWxio2DABkGqnwNIOFKCezwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/42-49-b.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 42:49</span>
<p></p><p>The shenanigans were all done in order to set up a scene echoed 64 years later in the movie “The Natural.” In that 1984 film, Roy Hobbs whittles a bat from a tree limb, names it “Wonderboy,” and uses it with great success while playing for the New York Knights. When Roy’s bat breaks at a critical moment at the end of the season, Knights bat boy Bobby Savoy gives the slugger a bat that the youngster had similarly fashioned by hand. Roy takes the bat, dubbed “Savoy Special,” and clouts the pennant-winning home run.</p>
<p>In “Headin’ Home,” after Babe’s bat is broken, Pigtails gives her big brother the bat that he had been whittling for the first 40 minutes of the movie. Babe returns to a normal grip, takes a pitch, then smashes the next delivery to deep center field, a majestic home run that ultimately shatters the newly dedicated church window that had been donated by Cyrus Tobin. </p>
<p>While this prodigious blast was just a work of fiction, during a batting exhibition for fans that morning, Ruth hit a number of towering home runs. As described in the local <i>Rockland County Times</i> of August 28, 1920, “Ruth met one of [pitcher Vincent] Lynch’s throws right in the center, seemingly without great muscular effort and the ball sailed gracefully away landing on top of the home of Constable Peter A. Reilly on Partition Street, hitting the peak of the roof and bounding over into the street.” Census records from 1920 show that Peter Reilly lived at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/11+Partition+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1983878,-73.9669231,18.08z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46e9bfeb0b3:0xc93ffeaea99d2d3a!8m2!3d41.198883!4d-73.9657618" target="_blank">11 Partition Street</a>, down the right field line.</p><p>I was able to track down Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps of Haverstraw from 1921 (just a year after filming took place) and was happy to find a page showing the location of the small grandstand at Eckerson Field (see bottom center):</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lga59BeEeQY/X25EXK5K28I/AAAAAAAAGEk/n_N0xDNmzPMYJo50Y-LGLMF8OKmm7fVDQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/map-sanborn.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Lga59BeEeQY/X25EXK5K28I/AAAAAAAAGEk/n_N0xDNmzPMYJo50Y-LGLMF8OKmm7fVDQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/map-sanborn.jpg" width="400" /></a></p><p>By making a reasonable estimate of the distance between the grandstand and the baseball diamond as seen in the movie footage, I was able to estimate the location home plate on modern maps of Haverstraw. </p>
<p>By my calculations, this would mean that Constable Reilly’s home was some 350 feet from home plate. However, we must remember that the ball hit the roof of the two story structure. Generally, a fly ball comes down at about a 45 degree angle and thus if the roof is some 20 feet above the ground, we should add another 20 feet to the distance in order to give report a projected home run distance. That is, the distance from home plate to the location a ball would land at ground level if unhindered by obstructions such as ballpark seats or, in this case, a rooftop.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CwxqOa8lIwQ/X25EbdK7S5I/AAAAAAAAGEo/QUTjrCOeYmQZ8DdtKOnMP7MdnF0FSPWrwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/map-partition.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CwxqOa8lIwQ/X25EbdK7S5I/AAAAAAAAGEo/QUTjrCOeYmQZ8DdtKOnMP7MdnF0FSPWrwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/map-partition.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>In short, the ball Ruth hit that landed atop Constable Reilly’s house traveled an estimated 370 feet.</p>
<p>Incidentally, the following year Lynch pitched professionally for the Class D Martinsburg (WV) Mountaineers of the Blue Ridge League. But as far as fame was concerned, the young pitcher topped out when he surrendered this long ball to the Bambino.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WsHfKbnxCeI/X25Eh5yEBoI/AAAAAAAAGEs/gBAqfMqWXDYaJtl6oxCJXwAC2jVltj2bACNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/map-broadway.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WsHfKbnxCeI/X25Eh5yEBoI/AAAAAAAAGEs/gBAqfMqWXDYaJtl6oxCJXwAC2jVltj2bACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/map-broadway.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Another of Babe’s home runs “landed on the shed in the rear of the Kigler house on Broadway and rolled in the kitchen, where Mrs. Spiegel was at work preparing the Sunday dinner.” The Kiglers lived at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/65+Broadway,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1988899,-73.9662897,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46c20b993b1:0xea04f89f622b9b8b!8m2!3d41.198888!4d-73.9652568" target="_blank">65 Broadway</a>, also down the right field line (and perhaps even in foul territory?!), and the rear of the house was approximately 375 feet from home plate.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pjCNy245Wq4/X25EnX-rmYI/AAAAAAAAGE0/wp6ewQM8mWcrrY8XJ7dkhNgG6Kf0u45IQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/map-ridge.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1000" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pjCNy245Wq4/X25EnX-rmYI/AAAAAAAAGE0/wp6ewQM8mWcrrY8XJ7dkhNgG6Kf0u45IQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/map-ridge.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>These approximate distances of 370 and 375 feet are impressive, but a third home run described in the newspaper is rather astounding, “the ball falling in Frank Smith’s yard on Ridge Street.” Smith, a foreman at a local brick factory, lived at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/8+Ridge+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1989528,-73.9671952,18z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46e97d0e15b:0xd1e8f93dca764f6c!8m2!3d41.1993544!4d-73.966074" target="_blank">8 Ridge Street</a>, in deep right center field, a distance that was some 465 feet from Eckerson Field’s home plate!</p>
<p>While these distances are estimates, they are still telling of Ruth’s tremendous strength and ability. Today, home runs of 370 to 375 feet happen all the time, but a 465-foot shot by a current star would certainly warrant coverage on MLB Tonight.</p>
<p>Sure, <a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/statcast_search?hfPT=&hfAB=home%5C.%5C.run%7C&hfBBT=&hfPR=&hfZ=&stadium=&hfBBL=&hfNewZones=&hfGT=R%7C&hfC=&hfSea=2020%7C2019%7C2018%7C2017%7C2016%7C2015%7C2014%7C2013%7C2012%7C2011%7C2010%7C2009%7C2008%7C&hfSit=&player_type=batter&hfOuts=&opponent=&pitcher_throws=&batter_stands=&hfSA=&game_date_gt=&game_date_lt=&hfInfield=&team=&position=&hfOutfield=&hfRO=&home_road=&hfFlag=&hfPull=&metric_1=&hfInn=&min_pitches=0&min_results=0&group_by=name-event&sort_col=pitches&player_event_sort=api_h_distance_projected&sort_order=desc&min_pas=0&chk_event_launch_speed=on&chk_event_hit_distance_sc=on#results" target="_blank">since the advent of Statcast in 2008, there have been nearly 170 home runs that have traveled at least 465 feet</a>. But it misses the point to compare the distance of Ruth’s home run to any of those hit today. You must put this exceptional show of power into perspective by understanding the time in which it was hit. The simple truth is that other than Babe Ruth, nobody was hitting home runs of this nature in 1920. Nobody. And no one was even close.<br /></p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Chase through Haverlock (and Haverstraw)</h2>
<p>After homering to win the game for the rival Highland team, Babe is chased off the field and a lengthy chase scene ensues.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5q4iIc8QKGQ/X25L9eFmqJI/AAAAAAAAGFI/rs8PUJdV0qIlPCxBI-9PgUPBhUs6ChfQACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/45-12.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5q4iIc8QKGQ/X25L9eFmqJI/AAAAAAAAGFI/rs8PUJdV0qIlPCxBI-9PgUPBhUs6ChfQACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/45-12.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 45:12</span>
<p></p><p>In the stills above, Herman the dog and Doc Hedges are seen turning the corner next to a home.</p>
<p>Later Babe follows in their footsteps:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-adVl6x0O9tE/X25MBON7HtI/AAAAAAAAGFM/47GvagnC3mcVf-3xk0W2GQ2lZaFMMkrvQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/45-22.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-adVl6x0O9tE/X25MBON7HtI/AAAAAAAAGFM/47GvagnC3mcVf-3xk0W2GQ2lZaFMMkrvQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/45-22.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 45:22</span>
<p></p><p>The brick building he rounds was the home of the Kistner family and is
located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/28+Middle+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1954518,-73.9627426,18.08z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46d64d92c5b:0xbd7e904ecc3cedc0!8m2!3d41.1953864!4d-73.9616332" target="_blank">28 Middle Street</a>. Though it is now painted a rich, dark red,
numerous features are identical to the way it appeared a century ago.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UANpOODReVE/X25MFbhqPzI/AAAAAAAAGFQ/kfaHOedLg7UZEeP69uSnl6l4d20WHaOFACNcBGAsYHQ/s434/28%2BMiddle%2BStreet.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="434" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UANpOODReVE/X25MFbhqPzI/AAAAAAAAGFQ/kfaHOedLg7UZEeP69uSnl6l4d20WHaOFACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/28%2BMiddle%2BStreet.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Eventually Babe ends up back at the United States Hotel and fends off the frenzied crowd with his baseball bat. </p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fFDRFYRmCQg/X25MJhTa8pI/AAAAAAAAGFU/1vGVHrkqNSQnkRWxasq3ZUDTp9wWup_9ACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/47-42.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fFDRFYRmCQg/X25MJhTa8pI/AAAAAAAAGFU/1vGVHrkqNSQnkRWxasq3ZUDTp9wWup_9ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/47-42.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 47:42</span>
<p></p><p>In the background is another building that still stands today, the home of Wilson and Frances Milburn at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/8+First+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1960527,-73.9616978,18z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c46d3f5c08b1:0xf6758f69467764ca!8m2!3d41.1960508!4d-73.9606649" target="_blank">8 First Street</a>. Could the two individuals seen at the bottom left of the above still from “Headin’ Home” be the Milburns?</p><p>Here’s what the home looks like today:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SQ5Af5so5T0/X25MNcAF4dI/AAAAAAAAGFc/sL-Q1b9Gr68e_B-60TtE0kKgNMefp7wngCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/8%2BFirst%2BStreet.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="395" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SQ5Af5so5T0/X25MNcAF4dI/AAAAAAAAGFc/sL-Q1b9Gr68e_B-60TtE0kKgNMefp7wngCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/8%2BFirst%2BStreet.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Babe is ultimately saved when Pastor Talmadge calms the mob, and moments later the Highland manager gives his new slugger an advance on his salary:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zqnvdLGbRXg/X25MSL_TlUI/AAAAAAAAGFk/FnCl-xcr3Qw5peIJ4ltyz2MPDRl1sjuNgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/48-57.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zqnvdLGbRXg/X25MSL_TlUI/AAAAAAAAGFk/FnCl-xcr3Qw5peIJ4ltyz2MPDRl1sjuNgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/48-57.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 48:57</span>
<p></p><p>The observant numismatist will note that Babe received a total of two dollars. The coins in his hand matching these:<br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ANJAIYMYe6s/X25MWZ59OVI/AAAAAAAAGFs/YQce3lVOgBMkTikzcAC2dxuay5zMsgIiwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/advance-on-salary.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="695" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ANJAIYMYe6s/X25MWZ59OVI/AAAAAAAAGFs/YQce3lVOgBMkTikzcAC2dxuay5zMsgIiwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/advance-on-salary.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Clockwise from top: a Morgan silver dollar (reverse), a Walking Liberty half dollar (reverse), a Standing Liberty quarter (obverse), and another Standing Liberty quarter (reverse).</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Another Missing Scene</h2>
<p>Around 49 minutes into the KINO version of “Headin’ Home” a small portion of a scene in which Mildred Tobin and Harry Knight meet in front of the Tobin home is missing. There is a missing title card:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tnaVOLQGFZo/X25RwoMqQuI/AAAAAAAAGGE/bJv2VTbnvG4cfqKzT0dw_YJnp7yJCmj7QCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-7.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tnaVOLQGFZo/X25RwoMqQuI/AAAAAAAAGGE/bJv2VTbnvG4cfqKzT0dw_YJnp7yJCmj7QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-7.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The other missing clip is a brief kiss:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw5uVKwQ4aY/X25R03ZE_qI/AAAAAAAAGGI/rRGtUNGg0IMw_p6-C2T4tL60yqGIP1PJQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-8.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="533" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Xw5uVKwQ4aY/X25R03ZE_qI/AAAAAAAAGGI/rRGtUNGg0IMw_p6-C2T4tL60yqGIP1PJQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-8.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">The Babe in New York City</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C-3nby9KER8/X25R5y2ssGI/AAAAAAAAGGM/QDufo2RvEIEyvnCsK8Z1G9DUYcCQp1CnwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/56-10.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C-3nby9KER8/X25R5y2ssGI/AAAAAAAAGGM/QDufo2RvEIEyvnCsK8Z1G9DUYcCQp1CnwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/56-10.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 56:10</span>
<p></p><p>In this scene, Babe arrives at a train station in New York City. One might suppose the movie makers would have chosen to shoot on location at either Grand Central Terminal or Penn Station, but instead they opted for the 138th Street Station at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Park+Ave+%26+E+138th+St,+The+Bronx,+NY+10451/@40.815939,-73.9333189,16z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2f5dbef333fd9:0xff8572a5eb951740!8m2!3d40.8125801!4d-73.9292563" target="_blank">Park Avenue and 138th in the Bronx</a>. Not only was it less crowded, but it was significantly closer to their home base at the old Biograph Studios.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LoDdMW9ufxI/X25R-4JP_hI/AAAAAAAAGGQ/U8-xKqgzYXQDiodN-R1ZNMhYs2_vflinACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/138th%2BStreet%2BStation%2BThe%2BBronx.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="599" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LoDdMW9ufxI/X25R-4JP_hI/AAAAAAAAGGQ/U8-xKqgzYXQDiodN-R1ZNMhYs2_vflinACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/138th%2BStreet%2BStation%2BThe%2BBronx.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Alas, this gorgeous Richardsonian Romanesque structure, located just about a mile south of Yankee Stadium, no longer stands today.</p><p>While I have not been able to identify every building that appears in
“Headin’ Home,” the church seen in the scene in which Babe consoles John
Tobin remains a particularly frustrating challenge. <br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aUf708Bjk34/X25aq-Npw7I/AAAAAAAAGGg/rFIOanzNfjog0cayQhrfDPp6insz3B57ACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/59-32.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aUf708Bjk34/X25aq-Npw7I/AAAAAAAAGGg/rFIOanzNfjog0cayQhrfDPp6insz3B57ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/59-32.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 59:32</span>
<p></p><p>There is no question in my mind that this was an actual church, as there were simply no large-structure sets manufactured for this film. Additionally, the general architectural style and the chi-rho symbol in the background corroborate that this was a church. </p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lgiQbVHynbg/X25bBNmM4NI/AAAAAAAAGGo/asuQqwZcq9gSramo58sWMFDFULBDiI4eACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/59-33.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lgiQbVHynbg/X25bBNmM4NI/AAAAAAAAGGo/asuQqwZcq9gSramo58sWMFDFULBDiI4eACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/59-33.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 59:33</span>
<p></p><p>Almost assuredly the church was located in the New York City area and, as suggested by the earlier use of the 138th Street Station, perhaps in The Bronx. If anyone can pass along a photograph that definitively matches this structure, you’d certainly make my day.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Mildred Has a Dream Sequence</h2>
<p>When Mildred Tobin thinks about Babe, there is a cut to a brief dream
sequence, this one showing Babe at bat at the Polo Grounds.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iDvP9jKCqrs/X25dXSE3ORI/AAAAAAAAGG0/JCxwmdUBdLMeRdKE6GtXe2sM12R0-peFQCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-01-10.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iDvP9jKCqrs/X25dXSE3ORI/AAAAAAAAGG0/JCxwmdUBdLMeRdKE6GtXe2sM12R0-peFQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-01-10.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:01:10</span>
<p></p><p>We know that the shot could not have been taken earlier than 1920, Ruth’s first year with the Yankees. Furthermore, the catcher’s stockings each have a thick, dark stripe, a feature that we have already learned is indicative of the Red Sox uniform. Already we have whittled down the possible dates that the footage was shot to one of the 11 games the Red Sox played in New York in 1920.
</p><p>Now compare the movie still with this well-known photograph of Babe Ruth trotting home after one of two home runs he hit against the Red Sox on June 25, 1920:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6FLeR-_VuBg/X25dh4rLQrI/AAAAAAAAGG4/4_j90uIh1g0RRh1IOLREDQeo22zxy-sjACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/june%2B25%2B1920%2B-%2Bb.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="507" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6FLeR-_VuBg/X25dh4rLQrI/AAAAAAAAGG4/4_j90uIh1g0RRh1IOLREDQeo22zxy-sjACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/june%2B25%2B1920%2B-%2Bb.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>In both images the umpire appears to be the same fellow. Even minute details of his clothing and equipment match well. There is little doubt that he is the same fellow.</p>
<p>Some quick research reveals that the home plate umpire for the June 25, 1920, game at the Polo Grounds was Ollie Chill. And thanks to <a href="https://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/index.html#Umpires" target="_blank">retrosheet.org’s extensive umpire game-by-game data</a>, I was able to determine that <a href="[https://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/1920/IUchilo9010041920.htm]" target="_blank">Chill umpired home plate just twice in 1920 when the Red Sox played the Yankees at the Polo Grounds: June 25 and June 27</a>. In both games, the Red Sox catcher was Roxy Walters and the on-deck batter (seen in the foreground of the movie still) was Bob Meusel. But was the footage taken the same day as the photograph or two days later?
</p><p>Contemporary newspapers reported that the June 25 game had an attendance of 20,000 fans, while the game of June 27 had 30,000 in the stands. Now take a look at the left field bleachers. In the photograph they are only partially full, but the bleachers in the movie still are jam packed. It seems likely we are seeing footage from the June 27 game, but one more action sequence near the very end of the movie will make this supposition nearly a certainty.<br /></p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe’s Home</h2>
<p>Outside the family home in Haverlock, Pigtails picks up the mail that
includes a letter from Babe saying that he’s “Headin’ Home.”</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2dkXKXkSPYI/X25gfUbuPhI/AAAAAAAAGHI/AWagKKUffmASMW_kXdHE7Y4RygKQ4DeAACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-02-15.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2dkXKXkSPYI/X25gfUbuPhI/AAAAAAAAGHI/AWagKKUffmASMW_kXdHE7Y4RygKQ4DeAACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-02-15.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:02:15</span>
<p></p><p>The house where Babe, his mother, and his sister live has appears numerous times in the film, but this movie still provides one of the best views of the structure.</p>
<p>The house is located at <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/9+Van+Houten+St,+Haverstraw,+NY+10927/@41.1953378,-73.962622,17.36z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c2c47290a72d7f:0xce6f76b236c76fc5!8m2!3d41.1942872!4d-73.9614307" target="_blank">9 Van Houten Street</a> (just a minute’s walk southwest of Cyrus Tobin’s home at 44 First Street) and was then occupied by Delia Tamsen and her family.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cAEHo02Z4Cc/X25gjAC3jtI/AAAAAAAAGHM/jAZjYY956tsa0w68JYWxoXwqhE0jyUy7gCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/9%2BVan%2BHouten%2BStreet.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cAEHo02Z4Cc/X25gjAC3jtI/AAAAAAAAGHM/jAZjYY956tsa0w68JYWxoXwqhE0jyUy7gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/9%2BVan%2BHouten%2BStreet.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Happily, the home can still be seen today, though in the ensuing years it has been significantly modified. First, there is what looks like the addition of an enclosed porch off the wing seen directly behind Pigtails. This addition is large enough that it now covers the original front door. The wing of the house that formerly had that front door has also been modified, as it now extends further to the right than it had before. Still, the “L”-shaped layout of the house, the roof various roof lines, and the pathway from the mailbox to the old front door remain basically the same.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">A Problem</h2>
<p>Two years have passed and Babe has made it in the big leagues. In the scene below, Deacon Flack, Cyrus Tobin, and Jimbo Jones take a look at
a newspaper detailing Babe’s stellar exploits on the diamond.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZ2YgOl5Qj8/X25gmfqox5I/AAAAAAAAGHQ/8zGr0bxd_EIm2JHDDzLWjLVDWSk2WdUwwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-02-30.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sZ2YgOl5Qj8/X25gmfqox5I/AAAAAAAAGHQ/8zGr0bxd_EIm2JHDDzLWjLVDWSk2WdUwwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-02-30.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:02:30</span>
<p></p><p>We next see the newspaper from the point of view of the three men. <br /></p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAs3mpTaIhc/X25sjYyR2DI/AAAAAAAAGHk/NZs2OT9haUwRrlN16QjcNawtHxcpNqFvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-02-31.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dAs3mpTaIhc/X25sjYyR2DI/AAAAAAAAGHk/NZs2OT9haUwRrlN16QjcNawtHxcpNqFvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-02-31.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:02:31</span>
<p></p><p>There’s a lot here, but before delving into the details we must first ask ourselves if what we are seeing is a real newspaper or a manufactured movie prop. The same question was a critical part of my research into <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2009/10/stuff-that-dreams-are-made-of.html" target="_blank">an unexpected baseball mystery in the movie “The Maltese Falcon” (1941) starring Humphrey Bogart</a>.
</p><p>As in “The Maltese Falcon,” it is quickly apparent that the newspaper is not a prop. If it were, the fabricated paper would feature a much more dynamic headline about Babe. But here the headline of interest takes up just a small portion of the frame.</p>
<p>Now that we can be assured that we are seeing a real newspaper, we can delve into the various visual clues to see what we can learn.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OrENC2-RT80/X25s1LXUadI/AAAAAAAAGHw/HhDqU4qZ6yIpkTtIWVMi5dgCycoJDd5UwCNcBGAsYHQ/s407/newspaper-ruth-detail.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="407" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OrENC2-RT80/X25s1LXUadI/AAAAAAAAGHw/HhDqU4qZ6yIpkTtIWVMi5dgCycoJDd5UwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/newspaper-ruth-detail.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /></span>
<p></p><p>The headline at center states that Babe hit a pair of homers and the Yankees won 3-0. Going through each game played by the Yankees in 1920, I could find only two dates in which the Yankees won by the score of 3-0: August 28 vs. the White Sox and September 27 vs. the Athletics. But, as you may recall, Ruth did not play on August 28 due to his bug bite. That leaves the September 27 game, and on that day Ruth did indeed hit two home runs. This information implies the newspaper dates from the day after the game, September 28, or possibly a late edition from September 27.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OhdITnCwr4U/X25s5JsJw3I/AAAAAAAAGH0/9GaecR-360cua2Wx12QBWVo0q1PlN9dAgCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/newspaper-boeckel-detail.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OhdITnCwr4U/X25s5JsJw3I/AAAAAAAAGH0/9GaecR-360cua2Wx12QBWVo0q1PlN9dAgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/newspaper-boeckel-detail.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Regarding the headline having to do with the Giants and a word starting with “Boec,” I suspected that this was likely the last name of a ballplayer. Following that assumption I found that the only big leaguer whose name starts with letters “Boec” is Tony Boeckel, a third baseman who played with the Pirates and Braves over a understandably forgettable six-season big league career.</p>
<p>Arguably, the highlight of Boeckel’s ball playing days came in the second game of a September 28, 1920, doubleheader at the Polo Grounds, in which his solo homer in the top of the ninth gave the Braves a 3-2 win and eliminated the Giants from the pennant race. This explains why we see the words “Giants” and “Boec[kel]” in the same headline. Again, this corroborates a newspaper date of September 28 or possibly a late edition of September 27.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1h7uzTm6cGw/X25swWcPxhI/AAAAAAAAGHo/h1Qe0BkNTS0z1JLiSrprwNfRwREHn9MpQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/newspaper-comiskey-detail.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1h7uzTm6cGw/X25swWcPxhI/AAAAAAAAGHo/h1Qe0BkNTS0z1JLiSrprwNfRwREHn9MpQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/newspaper-comiskey-detail.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Turning our attention to the headline with the words “Comiskey” and “Proof,” you will recall that the Black Sox scandal did not break until late in the 1920 season. This headline is undoubtedly related to the news that, as reported in the New York Times of September 28, 1920, White Sox owner Charles Comiskey “received word that Billy Maharg had told newspaper men in Philadelphia that White Sox players approached him before the world series last year and told him it had been ‘fixed’ for Cincinnati to win.” Yet again, all signs point to a newspaper date of September 28 or a late edition from September 27.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kk5NI0dCoss/X25s9J4wYlI/AAAAAAAAGH4/925-J2aDHG01w6krb4bhP4a_WJxFmP4WQCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/newspaper-comic-detail.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="217" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kk5NI0dCoss/X25s9J4wYlI/AAAAAAAAGH4/925-J2aDHG01w6krb4bhP4a_WJxFmP4WQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/newspaper-comic-detail.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Finally, what of the cartoon seen at the top of the frame?</p>
<p>It’s a cell from a comic strip titled “Bringing Up Father,” created by George McManus. This popular strip, also known as “Jiggs and Maggie,” ran for nearly 90 years: from 1913 to 2000!</p>
<p>In light of the previous three clues, it seemed likely that this syndicated comic strip was published in newspaper on either September 28 or September 27, 1920. Indeed, I found it in a number of papers on September 28 ... and not in any editions on September 27. Here’s one from the <i>El Paso Herald</i>, complete with the month and day (9-28) as noted by George McManus in the final cell:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TiRWdiaau3U/X29PsN5ArYI/AAAAAAAAGIQ/3IlsH2YEyl89d7p9e-uKJZyx94yp-hV5gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1000/full-comic.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="286" data-original-width="1000" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TiRWdiaau3U/X29PsN5ArYI/AAAAAAAAGIQ/3IlsH2YEyl89d7p9e-uKJZyx94yp-hV5gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/full-comic.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>While I have been unable to track down the exact newspaper as seen in the movie, I have been able to definitively date the newspaper in the movie still as Tuesday, September 28, 1920.</p>
<p>But this poses a problem. In order to understand this problem, we need to learn a bit more about the debut of “Headin’ Home.”</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-55VOsZVaqZM/X29PxtPSJCI/AAAAAAAAGIU/_nG3X3srWjUCGswN9GYsWOGUgtfORthCgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1106/tex%2Brickard.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1106" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-55VOsZVaqZM/X29PxtPSJCI/AAAAAAAAGIU/_nG3X3srWjUCGswN9GYsWOGUgtfORthCgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/tex%2Brickard.jpg" width="400" /></a><br /><p></p>
<p>In July of 1920, longtime boxing promoter Tex Rickard signed a 10-year lease on Madison Square Garden, this in the day when the indoor venue was located at the northeast corner of <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/Madison+Ave+%26+E+26th+St,+New+York,+NY+10010/@40.7424341,-73.9887647,17.28z/data=!4m5!3m4!1s0x89c259a6fa8c52f7:0x96ad55c446c897a4!8m2!3d40.7427782!4d-73.9865915" target="_blank">26th Street and Madison Avenue</a>:</p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PT3pdPcVvx0/X3CcAZj2iZI/AAAAAAAAGP0/lQf2rcqlVfoc8pOmTxC4Oi2i5t9b62MkgCNcBGAsYHQ/s506/madison%2Bsquare%2Bgarden.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="506" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PT3pdPcVvx0/X3CcAZj2iZI/AAAAAAAAGP0/lQf2rcqlVfoc8pOmTxC4Oi2i5t9b62MkgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/madison%2Bsquare%2Bgarden.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Rickard did so in hopes that that New York would reinstate boxing, but there were delays in doing so.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_2hex71AZQ/X29P1irmIhI/AAAAAAAAGIY/a7Gbo2bCILkwgp6JLi0_ZpQjqpbUUqpaACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/rickard-ad.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D_2hex71AZQ/X29P1irmIhI/AAAAAAAAGIY/a7Gbo2bCILkwgp6JLi0_ZpQjqpbUUqpaACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/rickard-ad.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>On Friday, September 3, in an effort to recoup some of his losses, Rickard paid $35,000 for the rights to debut “Headin’ Home” at the Garden for an exclusive eight-day run.</p>
<p>Not only did Rickard pay a hefty sum for exclusive rights to the movie, but he also laid out a good deal of money prepping the Garden for the debut. He constructed what was, at the time, the world’s largest movie screen: 27 × 36 feet. And in order to project the film on such a large screen, he had a special movie projector built with what was, at the time, the world’s most powerful projector lens.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e-9QzlPMwdY/X29b9LMkVsI/AAAAAAAAGIo/PASYGvaP8rE0cNc_Vqh9Ry0JNt0eK6p4wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1018/Oh-You-Babe-Ruth-sheet-music.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1018" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-e-9QzlPMwdY/X29b9LMkVsI/AAAAAAAAGIo/PASYGvaP8rE0cNc_Vqh9Ry0JNt0eK6p4wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Oh-You-Babe-Ruth-sheet-music.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>At the movie opening at Madison Square Garden, in front of an estimated crowd of some 6,000 movie-goers, Lieutenant James Tim Brymn and his Black Devils Band provided musical accompaniment for the film and performed the recently published song “Oh! You ‘Babe Ruth.’” You can listen to a modern rendition of the ditty here:</p><iframe allowfullscreen="" class="BLOG_video_class" height="333" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/XrUxBvcS8n0" width="400"></iframe><br />
<p></p><p>And while Ruth was unable to attend the event (the Yankees were on the road at the time), a special appearance was made by boxing champion Jack Dempsey, who less than two weeks earlier had KO’ed Billy Miske to retain his world heavyweight title.</p>
<p>But as noted above: There is a problem.</p>
<p>The date the movie debuted at Madison Square Garden was Sunday, September 19. There is no question that this is when the movie was first shown. It was heavily promoted for days beforehand and on the following day multiple newspapers recounted stories of the premiere.</p>
<p>But we’ve already determined that at least one scene in the movie (that which shows the newspaper) was shot no earlier than September 28.</p>
<p>How can this be the case? I can think of just two possible answers:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>In the late summer of 1920, in or around New York City, there was, in fact, a time machine; or </li><li>The film that debuted on September 19 was not the version of the film is available today.</li></ul>
<p>While I find the first possibility intriguing, I believe the second is more likely.</p>
<p>My best guess is that the movie editing process took longer than expected. However, as Rickard had invested $35,000 to debut “Headin’ Home” on September 19, something called “Headin’ Home” had better be projected at the Garden that night. That something, I believe, was a not-quite-final version of the movie.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">More Action at the Polo Grounds</h2>
<p>After Deacon Flack, Cyrus Tobin, and Jimbo Jones read the newspaper account of Babe’s on-field heroics, the movie makers include a scene to illustrate Ruth’s batting prowess.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9UvlMaW9tKs/X293gyFM7gI/AAAAAAAAGI0/fO2C68A8OdwVGCMUsteglpG7719iC6c3ACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-02-41.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9UvlMaW9tKs/X293gyFM7gI/AAAAAAAAGI0/fO2C68A8OdwVGCMUsteglpG7719iC6c3ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-02-41.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:02:41</span>
<p></p><p>The footage here is remarkably similar to that used for Babe’s mother’s dream sequence some 30 minutes earlier in “Headin’ Home.” In fact, the footage was taken at the very same game. This is
corroborated by overlaying the dream sequence still from 30:39 with this
later still from 01:02:41. <br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MEFLfKqu9IA/X293lzqabYI/AAAAAAAAGI4/7xzcVI42RaMnXngrO92g0z073sgTpobwACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/overlay1.gif"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MEFLfKqu9IA/X293lzqabYI/AAAAAAAAGI4/7xzcVI42RaMnXngrO92g0z073sgTpobwACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/overlay1.gif" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Especially convincing is the fact that the fans in the background are clearly the same.</p>
<p>By the way, keen-eyed viewers will note that Babe has white tape on his right wrist. However, the tape-job was not related to Babe’s bug bite, as that injury was to his hand, not his wrist. In fact, off and on throughout his career, Ruth had his wrist taped.</p>
<p>For example, here he is in 1921:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HKEiWIMND7I/X294exZbEgI/AAAAAAAAGJg/Zbdc132p7asJwh-yxKcf4-HeJ5hpBUCBACNcBGAsYHQ/s633/wrist%2B1921.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="633" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HKEiWIMND7I/X294exZbEgI/AAAAAAAAGJg/Zbdc132p7asJwh-yxKcf4-HeJ5hpBUCBACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/wrist%2B1921.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>And in 1923:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5qTZfZnTl0w/X294ifaTskI/AAAAAAAAGJk/6lfNY4fCVXkFAP_CugN9le6R4-nC-knVwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/wrist%2B1923.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="579" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5qTZfZnTl0w/X294ifaTskI/AAAAAAAAGJk/6lfNY4fCVXkFAP_CugN9le6R4-nC-knVwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/wrist%2B1923.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>Incidentally, as I note in <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2011/02/uncorking-truth.html" target="_blank">my blog post titled “Uncorking the Truth,”</a> it is possible that this latter image shows Ruth with a “Quadrabuilt” bat, a four-piece bat that was later deemed to be illegal.</p>
<p>Just moments after the movie still from 01:02:41, Babe connects with the pitch, runs down the baseline, and rounds first base, as the pitcher looks forlornly toward the outfield.</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ADZuHZm9g7E/X2935fMfZeI/AAAAAAAAGJM/rXOReu3HWpInfRmfp2nI4_wHVqzemQ3EwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-02-44.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ADZuHZm9g7E/X2935fMfZeI/AAAAAAAAGJM/rXOReu3HWpInfRmfp2nI4_wHVqzemQ3EwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-02-44.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:02:44</span>
</p><p>This gives us two important clues:</p><ul style="text-align: left;"><li>
Babe has certainly hit safely; and</li><li>The pitcher is a tall, right-handed pitcher, with stockings and a jersey that clearly match that worn by the Philadelphia Athletics at the time.</li></ul>
<p></p><p>The season of 1920 was the first to feature Athletics jerseys with an elephant on the front, and the only one in which the elephant was depicted standing on all four legs. Here’s a photo taken in 1920 of Athletics players Johnny Walker, Tillie Walker, and Frank Walker (no, they’re not related) wearing jerseys that are identical to that worn by the lanky pitcher in our movie still:</p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N5e73X3o6-w/X294veCWYhI/AAAAAAAAGJs/OAuBf3DJh2QX-msDjwVWjMaAviqYXyGnQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/Walkers.jpeg"><img border="0" data-original-height="541" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N5e73X3o6-w/X294veCWYhI/AAAAAAAAGJs/OAuBf3DJh2QX-msDjwVWjMaAviqYXyGnQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Walkers.jpeg" width="400" /></a>
</p><p>Earlier we noted that there were three possible dates for the game: two on September 6 and one on September 7. We used the size of the crowd to help pinpoint the action as coming from the second game on September 6, but now we can corroborate this conclusion by paying attention to the clues above: </p>
<p>Ruth failed to get a hit in the first game played on September 6, but as we now see him safely reaching base, we can eliminate that first game:</p>
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>And we can also eliminate the September 7 game, as the Athletics pitcher that day was Dave Keefe, who at 5’9” in height was most certainly not the pitcher seen above. </li><li>In the second game played on September 6, Ruth collected a pair of walks, a sacrifice fly and a double, his only hit of the day. As reported in the next day’s New York Tribune, Ruth’s “longest hit of the day was a two-bagger to deep right field in the first inning of the second tilt.” </li></ul>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bAz6pEtZlQ8/X294zfuFKNI/AAAAAAAAGJ0/k-OisqoMvx0O0jLVRiKj5oa_jokoR-pkQCNcBGAsYHQ/s465/Slim%2BHarriss.jpe"><img border="0" data-original-height="465" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bAz6pEtZlQ8/X294zfuFKNI/AAAAAAAAGJ0/k-OisqoMvx0O0jLVRiKj5oa_jokoR-pkQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Slim%2BHarriss.jpe" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The pitcher for Philadelphia that game was right-hander William Jennings Bryan Harriss. At 180 pounds and 6’6” in height it’s no wonder his nickname was “Slim.” In fact, Harriss was the tallest pitcher in the league at the time.</p>
<p>In summary, the action we see in this brief scene is of Ruth hitting a first-inning double off Slim Harriss in the second game played on September 6, 1920:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ui_gX-MEn9A/X3CgCYA2pII/AAAAAAAAGQA/fygybWcg0tgIlZ6igx0Y3MlIpwCw0jTeQCNcBGAsYHQ/s412/boxscore-sep-6-1920.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="412" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ui_gX-MEn9A/X3CgCYA2pII/AAAAAAAAGQA/fygybWcg0tgIlZ6igx0Y3MlIpwCw0jTeQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/boxscore-sep-6-1920.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>New York Times</i>, September 7, 1920</span>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe Returns to Haverlock</h2>
<p>After Babe returns to Haverlock, he meets up with various locals from his past. Here he bumps into Deacon Flack and, within seconds, Flack hits up Babe for $13.75, the cost to repair the memorial church window.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6x9XD_8-DJE/X297eLobWDI/AAAAAAAAGKE/uTWwzeVR_94lGtNKc8KrKgolQuv_Pwz5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-06-04.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6x9XD_8-DJE/X297eLobWDI/AAAAAAAAGKE/uTWwzeVR_94lGtNKc8KrKgolQuv_Pwz5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-06-04.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:06:04</span>
<p></p><p>Missing from the KINO version of “Headin’ Home” is this title card found in the version at archive.org:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dhTEuXwl8B8/X297xZI0NCI/AAAAAAAAGKM/W9ZKFOnP_3EgnVZN2VLZq9Jg5B_TyoLBQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-9.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="546" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dhTEuXwl8B8/X297xZI0NCI/AAAAAAAAGKM/W9ZKFOnP_3EgnVZN2VLZq9Jg5B_TyoLBQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-9.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe’s Mother Has Another Dream Sequence</h2>
<p>Once again, Babe’s mother dreams of her son’s success. This time the dream sequence is a shot of fans leaving the field at the Polo Grounds. For years at the Polo Grounds, when a game ended, fans left through
exits in the outfield, creating a swarm of humanity on the field.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajVg4HVkCuQ/X2972OLUR0I/AAAAAAAAGKQ/o4mAQKVfP58AonkhGJ3cdQz2c5_x8nOPwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-08-23.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ajVg4HVkCuQ/X2972OLUR0I/AAAAAAAAGKQ/o4mAQKVfP58AonkhGJ3cdQz2c5_x8nOPwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-08-23.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:08:23</span>
<p></p><p>Here we see fans (and the occasional ballplayer) heading toward right center field. At right we see a group of Athletics players, with the standing elephants on their jerseys. It seems likely that this is the aftermath of the games of September 6, 1920.
</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe Proposes to Mildred</h2>
<p>Babe heads to the Tobin house intent on proposing to Mildred. In a humorous sequence, Babe’s mission is interrupted, first by John Tobin and then by Cyrus. But the latter intrusion is cut short in the KINO version of “Headin’ Home.” Here are a few stills from that missing scene:</p><p>Cyrus takes Babe to a back room:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hrs5NynLgAE/X298Fkd73eI/AAAAAAAAGKc/GTLORGXp3cMvN5vWma3bE8MxL6dBMQecgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-10.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="589" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hrs5NynLgAE/X298Fkd73eI/AAAAAAAAGKc/GTLORGXp3cMvN5vWma3bE8MxL6dBMQecgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-10.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p>It turns out that the old man has a still of his own:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T8HQ9BFGYXs/X298Jso1AhI/AAAAAAAAGKg/VkwQxDlKKxQtbjP3zNVhD_20R7hIEtunwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-11.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T8HQ9BFGYXs/X298Jso1AhI/AAAAAAAAGKg/VkwQxDlKKxQtbjP3zNVhD_20R7hIEtunwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-11.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>The two men share a drink, with Cyrus downing his glass in one long draw
while Babe looks on, astonished. Eventually Babe finishes his glass and
shows his approval of the drink by sticking out his tongue:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bVOHtWzmg3Q/X298NDr0XbI/AAAAAAAAGKk/fJazJkIekeEPDh4_ad1suk83IfddIoXnACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-12.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="601" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bVOHtWzmg3Q/X298NDr0XbI/AAAAAAAAGKk/fJazJkIekeEPDh4_ad1suk83IfddIoXnACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-12.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Haverlock Heads to the Polo Grounds</h2>
<p>In the final scenes of the movie, we return to Eliar Lott, who finishes telling his tale to the fan next to him, informing him that all of Haverlock is at the ball game, cheering for Babe to hit a home run.</p>
<p>We see Mildred in the grandstand, with a marking on the wall in the background that reads “15 9”:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GhQCeF5R50/X2993LkigiI/AAAAAAAAGK4/7TmO9eeTIp0GiP_Tg80CchLliBI8jkrcACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-11-12.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1GhQCeF5R50/X2993LkigiI/AAAAAAAAGK4/7TmO9eeTIp0GiP_Tg80CchLliBI8jkrcACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-11-12.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:11:12</span>
<p></p><p>And we see Cyrus Tobin and Pigtails in the same box seats with the same marking on the wall behind them:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VPoAW0zP26c/X2996SypD5I/AAAAAAAAGK8/LZrThWQqdCUU4FoEjTJHsIwLwrwsQgO6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-11-30.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VPoAW0zP26c/X2996SypD5I/AAAAAAAAGK8/LZrThWQqdCUU4FoEjTJHsIwLwrwsQgO6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-11-30.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:11:30</span>
<p></p><p>This map of the upper grandstand of the Polo Grounds shows the special boxes in the front row, overlooking the field:</p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-epM4NmNi57Q/X29-FvdUyUI/AAAAAAAAGLA/t0aNWlLnbr4nJULoWOk4chOnBEXbmmM6wCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/polo-grounds-chart.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="569" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-epM4NmNi57Q/X29-FvdUyUI/AAAAAAAAGLA/t0aNWlLnbr4nJULoWOk4chOnBEXbmmM6wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/polo-grounds-chart.jpg" width="400" /> </a></p><p>Here’s a detail:
</p><p></p><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T2Useq9f7-U/X29-JU7kwzI/AAAAAAAAGLE/Wb8c3e-0YyA6jhO80B_I1UqBDuWc2zVtwCNcBGAsYHQ/s400/polo-grounds-chart-detail.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="301" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T2Useq9f7-U/X29-JU7kwzI/AAAAAAAAGLE/Wb8c3e-0YyA6jhO80B_I1UqBDuWc2zVtwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/polo-grounds-chart-detail.jpg" width="400" /></a>
</p><p></p><p>In section 15 (on the first base side of the stands) there are nine boxes (1-9). Thus, this scene was actually shot at the Polo Grounds in box 9 of section 15 in the upper grandstand.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe and His Teammates</h2>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DxDcZ61jQuc/X29_Xd48GbI/AAAAAAAAGLU/TszxjWlA6b8nZQ8FVr4MrzfpIHqvxgIbwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-11-49.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DxDcZ61jQuc/X29_Xd48GbI/AAAAAAAAGLU/TszxjWlA6b8nZQ8FVr4MrzfpIHqvxgIbwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-11-49.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:11:49</span>
<p></p><p>In the above shot, Babe and his teammates are seen in the Yankees dugout at the Polo Grounds. Each player is wearing a black armband, and the careful observer will notice that Babe also has white tape on his right wrist, just as was seen in earlier footage of the September 6 game. It seems reasonable that this short sequence was also taken that same day.</p>
<p>Careful perusal of the players allows us to identify a few of interest.</p>
<p>At far left is Jack Quinn, who in 1920 was 36 years old, but would go on to be a full-time pitcher well into his 40s, even leading the league in games finished (and saves, for what that’s worth) in 1931 and 1932 at 48 and 49 years of age.</p>
<p>Just to the right of Quinn and leaning on the dugout steps is Chick Fewster, whose armband carries a special irony. Less than half a year earlier, on March 25, Fewster was hit in the head by a ball delivered by Brooklyn’s Big Jeff Pfeffer during a spring training game. Fewster was knocked cold for 10 minutes, suffered a fractured skull and a concussion, and lost his ability to speak for a few days. It was eventually necessary for doctors to operate, removing part of his skull and a blood clot. Amazingly, he came back to play in early July of 1920 and continued his career in the majors and minors for the rest of the decade.</p>
<p>Aaron Ward, on the bench and just to Ruth’s left, is an often overlooked player who was a key infielder for the great Yankees teams of the early 1920s. His .417 average in the 1923 World Series led all Yankees regulars in their first-ever World Championship.</p>
<p>Fred Hofmann, on the dugout steps at far right, was a perennial back-up catcher for nine big league seasons, but his professional playing and coaching career ran from 1916 through 1951, after which he scouted for the Browns/Orioles organization.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Babe Homers to Win the Game ... But Not Really</h2>
<p>The final sequence features the Babe at bat.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8QE8eMZbK-I/X2-AD919SQI/AAAAAAAAGLc/tL90C5u10vgTD7e7eGzOvfw0P5fqbB-kACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-12-30.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8QE8eMZbK-I/X2-AD919SQI/AAAAAAAAGLc/tL90C5u10vgTD7e7eGzOvfw0P5fqbB-kACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-12-30.tiff" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Time: 01:12:30</span>
<p></p><p>His uniform does not include a black armband and the catcher has stockings with a thick, dark stripe. This is reminiscent of footage we saw near the very beginning of the movie.</p><p>In fact, if we overlay the early movie still from 1:31 and this later movie still from 01:12:30, features in the background match quite well.
</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNhYRA-9haQ/X2-AJEaqAKI/AAAAAAAAGLg/IJh-MwJ5aWYlsoOpuvBE7xRbruxoFLmLgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1254/overlay2.gif"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="1254" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yNhYRA-9haQ/X2-AJEaqAKI/AAAAAAAAGLg/IJh-MwJ5aWYlsoOpuvBE7xRbruxoFLmLgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/overlay2.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<p></p><p>Not only was the camera in the exact same spot for both shots, but many of the fans (pay special attention to heads and hats) appear to be in nearly identical spots. As determined earlier, this footage comes from a Red Sox-Yankees game at the Polo Grounds in 1920. But this end-of-movie sequence provides even more footage from which to cultivate three important clues.</p><p>First, the Red Sox pitcher is right-handed: <br /></p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9c0EvKImDkg/X2-AMhbxqjI/AAAAAAAAGLk/Rzc-rTsE7cIbr58FQOHYV3C4RwVZXB4UgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-12-39.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9c0EvKImDkg/X2-AMhbxqjI/AAAAAAAAGLk/Rzc-rTsE7cIbr58FQOHYV3C4RwVZXB4UgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-12-39.tiff" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Time: 01:12:29</span><p></p>
<p>Second, we see that Ruth connects with the ball and heads to first, clearly having made a safe hit:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I2TrPk9_5w4/X2-AQbZBGjI/AAAAAAAAGLo/FfS6yHNaaBc4UyWDfzvkArctYEcGDLJ_ACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-12-41.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I2TrPk9_5w4/X2-AQbZBGjI/AAAAAAAAGLo/FfS6yHNaaBc4UyWDfzvkArctYEcGDLJ_ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-12-41.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:12:41</span>
<p>Third, we see Ruth running home and looking back over his shoulder, a
clear indication that he scored, but is still interested in the action
on the base paths:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q43bZs6tbmo/X2-AT482iKI/AAAAAAAAGLs/Pn_kNJ7r-h49t0e9IRU5Jj9BdMB_x9uiACNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-13-00.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Q43bZs6tbmo/X2-AT482iKI/AAAAAAAAGLs/Pn_kNJ7r-h49t0e9IRU5Jj9BdMB_x9uiACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-13-00.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:13:00</span>
<p></p><p>Taking a look at all 11 games that the Red Sox played at the Polo Grounds in 1920, and taking into account these three clues, I was able to eliminate some dates because Ruth faced only left-handed pitchers, some dates because Ruth didn’t get a hit, and some dates because Ruth failed to score. Ultimately, only four games remained possibilities: May 2, June 26, June 27, and July 25.
</p><p>Now let’s turn our attention to the footage from the overhead camera.</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FTgv045X0f0/X2-AYKuLQ_I/AAAAAAAAGLw/W1Cj7SDr1jE1puwmtveDEL0IJ04bOMLNwCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-12-43.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FTgv045X0f0/X2-AYKuLQ_I/AAAAAAAAGLw/W1Cj7SDr1jE1puwmtveDEL0IJ04bOMLNwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-12-43.tiff" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br />Time: 01:12:43</span>
<p></p><p>The situation clearly shows men on first and third as the batter begins sprinting towards first base. In one uninterrupted shot, we see the batter make it all the way to third base, as both runners score. The camera angle makes it difficult to determine if the batter was Babe Ruth, but play-by-play data from the season makes that a moot point. Only once during the 1920 season did a Yankees batter hit a triple with men on first and third. That event, the very one captured in this footage, took place on June 27. Happily, this is one of the dates that had remained a possibility.</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w1LCe6nKaFQ/X3CkJ0qAySI/AAAAAAAAGQM/70FWTC-s1PgIYQnfWqorfKW_V9JX1WC2wCNcBGAsYHQ/s523/boxscore-jun-27-1920.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="523" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w1LCe6nKaFQ/X3CkJ0qAySI/AAAAAAAAGQM/70FWTC-s1PgIYQnfWqorfKW_V9JX1WC2wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/boxscore-jun-27-1920.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>New York Tribune</i>, June 28, 1920</span>
<p></p><p>Who hit that unique triple? Babe Ruth. In fact, Ruth’s only hit that day was the triple, and thus both the overhead and field level cameras captured the same event at the same time.</p>
<p>Ruth’s triple came in the eighth inning, scored teammates Aaron Ward and Wally Pipp, and knotted the score at 5-5. The next batter, Bob Meusel, doubled to right field, scoring Ruth. This is the play we saw in which Ruth scored and looked over his shoulder in order to see to see where Meusel ended up.</p>
<p>But the movie makers wanted to show Ruth homering, so they edited these two plays (Ruth tripling and Ruth later scoring) in such a way as to make it appear to the casual observer as if it were a single play: a home run.</p><p>Right after Ruth scores, we see the players run off the field (towards the center field clubhouses), implying that Babe had hit a walk-of homer.
</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eUiAMSUyFUo/X2-Cp2xThtI/AAAAAAAAGMM/Kbp3yfS8hU0vuFv3DrBkEe5Mn13UO0gBgCNcBGAsYHQ/s720/1-13-06.tiff"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="720" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eUiAMSUyFUo/X2-Cp2xThtI/AAAAAAAAGMM/Kbp3yfS8hU0vuFv3DrBkEe5Mn13UO0gBgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1-13-06.tiff" width="400" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Time: 01:13:06</span><p></p>
<p>Missing from the KINO version of “Headin’ Home” is a brief but important scene.
</p><p>Fans are seen swarming the infield:</p>
<p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_6NfhY109i4/X2-Ct70lECI/AAAAAAAAGMQ/l6rQyJgg23IP5bhiZyWXbAvcGaEGxuplQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-13.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="587" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_6NfhY109i4/X2-Ct70lECI/AAAAAAAAGMQ/l6rQyJgg23IP5bhiZyWXbAvcGaEGxuplQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-13.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>And Babe wades through the crowd with Pigtails by his side:</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fH0nUvggWPw/X2-Cx7X2vGI/AAAAAAAAGMU/XXU13HhgsKg31JuVsiKUfJu1dwDUuOMlgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-14.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fH0nUvggWPw/X2-Cx7X2vGI/AAAAAAAAGMU/XXU13HhgsKg31JuVsiKUfJu1dwDUuOMlgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-14.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>This scene was certainly not shot after the June 27 game against the Red Sox, because at that time Ruth had not even signed his movie contract and so how could he be paired with Frances Victory as Pigtails? Instead, the scene was shot at the one game in which all the actors were at the Polo Grounds: the contest against the Athletics on September 6.</p><p>The final clips, also missing from the KINO version of “Headin’ Home,” are of the multitude of fans leaving the ballpark ... </p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a4IHiegGmoc/X2-C1aut3uI/AAAAAAAAGMY/3XNrNX7CALILuO0Sz9WpdzXICJBUZ_79gCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-15.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="581" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-a4IHiegGmoc/X2-C1aut3uI/AAAAAAAAGMY/3XNrNX7CALILuO0Sz9WpdzXICJBUZ_79gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-15.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<p></p><p>... and the end title.
</p><p></p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2zC-e3YFGDU/X2-C5VZeYEI/AAAAAAAAGMc/AhZsxrkJBOUecTzf2ZbEOo2JPP0q1DtxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/missing-16.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="594" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2zC-e3YFGDU/X2-C5VZeYEI/AAAAAAAAGMc/AhZsxrkJBOUecTzf2ZbEOo2JPP0q1DtxQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/missing-16.jpg" width="400" /></a>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">“Headin’ Home” Strikes Out</h2>
<p>Adam Kessel and Charles Baumann pushed hard to promote the movie, but “Headin’ Home” never became the hit that the duo had bet on.</p>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yn3DHkCgLog/X2-XkHJLEkI/AAAAAAAAGNE/gA_VlfscYysyJ4c-__SnjbBZrmmIvvabwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/ad%2Bin%2Bvariety%2B-%2Baug%2B13%2B1920.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="574" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yn3DHkCgLog/X2-XkHJLEkI/AAAAAAAAGNE/gA_VlfscYysyJ4c-__SnjbBZrmmIvvabwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ad%2Bin%2Bvariety%2B-%2Baug%2B13%2B1920.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><br /><i>Variety</i>, August 13, 1920</span>
<p></p><p>The movie ran off and on throughout the country for a few years. In fact, it played at Smalley’s Theater in Cooperstown as late as May of 1922, some 14 years before Ruth himself would travel to the upstate New York village to help christen the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum as one of its first five inductees. But, ultimately the film failed to make money, and less than two months after the movie opened, Ruth’s attorney, David W. Kahn, filed an involuntary bankruptcy petition against the Yankee Photoplay Corporation, claiming the $35,000 still owed Ruth. Additionally, Biograph Studios claimed it was owed $1,062 for rental of its studio. As far as I can tell, neither Ruth nor Biograph received another cent.</p>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Reviews</h2>
<p>So the movie didn’t make money. But still it was a critical success, right? Well, not really. Most every review said just about the same thing:</p>
<ul style="text-align: left;"><li>The <i>New York Tribune </i>called the story “weak, disjointed and unconvincing ... but Babe’s work is excellent throughout.”</li><li>The <i>Brooklyn Daily Eagle </i>opined that “were it not for the fact that Ruth is the star, the film would attract very little attention.”</li><li>And <i>Variety </i>reported that “the story as a story is ridiculous and isn’t convincingly acted. It couldn’t hold the interest of any one for five seconds if it were not for the presence of the great athlete. He, and he alone, makes it worth five minutes of anybody’s time.”</li></ul>
<p>In short, the reviews for the movie were poor, but for the Babe they were glowing.</p><h2 style="text-align: left;">Movie Memorabilia</h2><p>From lobby cards to publicity stills to baseball cards, “Headin’ Home” was heavily promoted when it debuted in the fall of 1920. Today these various forms of ephemera are much sought-after collectibles. Here is just a selection of some of these items:<br /></p>
<table border="0" style="width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZllyyPT0UU/X2-nynPw0nI/AAAAAAAAGNw/Rs0KSIIY_sszhOg7SxHeYYgtfkQtBj76QCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/lc6.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tZllyyPT0UU/X2-nynPw0nI/AAAAAAAAGNw/Rs0KSIIY_sszhOg7SxHeYYgtfkQtBj76QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/lc6.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GT73zbXs3U8/X2-nyjk0qeI/AAAAAAAAGNs/nWdBr05VXbQI7LMEWV5oPLRslGBspW37ACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/lc5.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GT73zbXs3U8/X2-nyjk0qeI/AAAAAAAAGNs/nWdBr05VXbQI7LMEWV5oPLRslGBspW37ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/lc5.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O8bYIuyd_CY/X2-nyUsoexI/AAAAAAAAGNk/ywdpGEOwNe4hfqHNnW0bo_zs3gQkPPEbwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/lc4.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O8bYIuyd_CY/X2-nyUsoexI/AAAAAAAAGNk/ywdpGEOwNe4hfqHNnW0bo_zs3gQkPPEbwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/lc4.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lClQO6R1g7s/X2-nxwevTxI/AAAAAAAAGNc/DN9ehdRhaeYaJT01cs2jiymcdfCdT6--ACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/lc2.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lClQO6R1g7s/X2-nxwevTxI/AAAAAAAAGNc/DN9ehdRhaeYaJT01cs2jiymcdfCdT6--ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/lc2.jpg" width="125" /></a></p></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVXvFvHjRDw/X2-nyOehiGI/AAAAAAAAGNo/hRHzgOVMvccN5rFBFNOD33DLWRTbNALVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/lc3.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVXvFvHjRDw/X2-nyOehiGI/AAAAAAAAGNo/hRHzgOVMvccN5rFBFNOD33DLWRTbNALVQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/lc3.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rb8c79500so/X2-nyKqUtII/AAAAAAAAGNg/yHs6D8tkyVAEQIxMCWr8_DogEaZjWwWiACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/lc1.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rb8c79500so/X2-nyKqUtII/AAAAAAAAGNg/yHs6D8tkyVAEQIxMCWr8_DogEaZjWwWiACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/lc1.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r52eKD2U3vM/X2-qQ2N2-fI/AAAAAAAAGOM/FPBlagiFC0s_1QYR-5wc7VHmKW7kR42EgCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/ps1.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r52eKD2U3vM/X2-qQ2N2-fI/AAAAAAAAGOM/FPBlagiFC0s_1QYR-5wc7VHmKW7kR42EgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ps1.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nrdk47vPNKE/X2-qQ9HWW-I/AAAAAAAAGOQ/VZsyzWMloOUq2Tg2AA0rCELD5xk3UTZTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/ps2.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nrdk47vPNKE/X2-qQ9HWW-I/AAAAAAAAGOQ/VZsyzWMloOUq2Tg2AA0rCELD5xk3UTZTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ps2.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HL0Bbi5Dcc/X2-qQx7BHtI/AAAAAAAAGOI/S10RpvskhCAs2upbvVy6784lK5Cdp1_iQCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/ps3.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="631" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7HL0Bbi5Dcc/X2-qQx7BHtI/AAAAAAAAGOI/S10RpvskhCAs2upbvVy6784lK5Cdp1_iQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ps3.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rbKrx8HW2XQ/X3ERKCry6iI/AAAAAAAAGQw/IduOlVucQHE3Y7DrSryqdGDzbaitB-GfgCNcBGAsYHQ/s515/ps4.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="515" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rbKrx8HW2XQ/X3ERKCry6iI/AAAAAAAAGQw/IduOlVucQHE3Y7DrSryqdGDzbaitB-GfgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ps4.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5G3HB3wKdk4/X2-qaGBIQlI/AAAAAAAAGOs/e6zOyycY33EmiKPdd2j6s6m5KbRd25e6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s626/bc7.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5G3HB3wKdk4/X2-qaGBIQlI/AAAAAAAAGOs/e6zOyycY33EmiKPdd2j6s6m5KbRd25e6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bc7.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rAPZTMAfUuU/X2-qZx_V5-I/AAAAAAAAGOk/-KCcESAsXuMCxPCXJ0XsK9mvmAfHvJ1_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s626/bc6.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rAPZTMAfUuU/X2-qZx_V5-I/AAAAAAAAGOk/-KCcESAsXuMCxPCXJ0XsK9mvmAfHvJ1_QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bc6.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><p><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FWG2pcsjbY4/X2-qZTpMFpI/AAAAAAAAGOo/JcyKSKszDwY9viwdkLEd2M1xrmy6Y1u5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s626/bc5.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FWG2pcsjbY4/X2-qZTpMFpI/AAAAAAAAGOo/JcyKSKszDwY9viwdkLEd2M1xrmy6Y1u5QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bc5.jpg" width="125" /></a></p></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXoIIKD8XwY/X2-qZHAZQsI/AAAAAAAAGOg/fdSlRDcLGH4tA7e_-ttSZrSqQPKqXfwCwCNcBGAsYHQ/s626/bc4.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OXoIIKD8XwY/X2-qZHAZQsI/AAAAAAAAGOg/fdSlRDcLGH4tA7e_-ttSZrSqQPKqXfwCwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bc4.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vJiBGdj68kM/X2-qY1detLI/AAAAAAAAGOU/0ise1lAyIxcHUsCk4jPJ1u0TS3-lzJNKgCNcBGAsYHQ/s626/bc3.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vJiBGdj68kM/X2-qY1detLI/AAAAAAAAGOU/0ise1lAyIxcHUsCk4jPJ1u0TS3-lzJNKgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bc3.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxhEz-oF1KE/X2-qaLg_C_I/AAAAAAAAGOw/w04BUbh8CPg4CyccfJyRxQ7hXK4GelU3QCNcBGAsYHQ/s626/bc8.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="626" data-original-width="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FxhEz-oF1KE/X2-qaLg_C_I/AAAAAAAAGOw/w04BUbh8CPg4CyccfJyRxQ7hXK4GelU3QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bc8.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f9FIq3Iupwc/X2-qY7O-URI/AAAAAAAAGOY/ITUNG1Erj0gL37rK8mHyRTEUS4adxU-QACNcBGAsYHQ/s800/bc1.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="530" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-f9FIq3Iupwc/X2-qY7O-URI/AAAAAAAAGOY/ITUNG1Erj0gL37rK8mHyRTEUS4adxU-QACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bc1.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
<td><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3pGzRiU-msA/X2-qY6HpGFI/AAAAAAAAGOc/fa43ntzW6Q0CNuRvgnWH15QJra_mKz8iwCNcBGAsYHQ/s800/bc2.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="483" data-original-width="800" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3pGzRiU-msA/X2-qY6HpGFI/AAAAAAAAGOc/fa43ntzW6Q0CNuRvgnWH15QJra_mKz8iwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bc2.jpg" width="125" /></a></td>
</tr></tbody>
</table>
<h2 style="text-align: left;">Researchin’ “Headin’ Home”</h2>
<p>I first watched “Headin’ Home” back in 2011, and while I’ve grown to really like this silly, corny, quirky movie, I’ve always really loved researching it. This guide to the movie was the result of countless hours scouring old newspapers, flipping through vintage images, walking the streets of Haverstraw, and watching the movie ... over and over and over. I’d like to thank all the generous folks who have helped me with my research along the way, including Jerry Accomando, Larry Kigler, Jane Leavy, Jacob Pomrenke, and Peter Scheibner.</p>
<p> </p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-35865522637706614162020-05-27T12:32:00.007-04:002020-09-24T08:48:29.608-04:00"How many people do you think there are in that photograph?"<br />
“The Great McGinty,” the celebrated political satire written and directed by Preston Sturges’ and released in 1940, isn’t a baseball movie, but our national pastime does play a prominent role in a scene about halfway through the film.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ySILr6O0WHo/Xs55WLrFM1I/AAAAAAAAFtU/969h4RL7cAgJ40L-4cst9YoEF8vTPkm6gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/movie-poster.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ySILr6O0WHo/Xs55WLrFM1I/AAAAAAAAFtU/969h4RL7cAgJ40L-4cst9YoEF8vTPkm6gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/movie-poster.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
In the relevant sequence, Dan McGinty (played by Brian Donlevy) is a corrupt mayor who works out the details (that is, the dollar value) of a not-so-subtle bribe from the operator of the local bus line:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><b>Mr. Maxwell: </b>But how can the city even contemplate a municipal bus line when it has a 99-year contract with me? A contract that you may even remember something about, Mr. Mayor.<br />
<b>Dan McGinty: </b>Look, Mr. Maxwell. I’m only the mayor, see? Now, if it was up to me, I’d make you a free gift of all the bus rides to this city. I think you run a beautiful bus. I travel on them myself. And I’ll be genuinely sorry to see them disappear from our streets.<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>Disappear? But there must be some way, some solution of mutual satisfaction. I don’t know how to talk to a mayor, but if I could only persuade you that ...<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>You can’t persuade me, Mr. Maxwell, because it’s entirely out of my hands. But I’ll tell you what I’ll do, just for old times’ sake. I’ll send the chairman of the bus committee up , and if you can persuade him, it’s all right with me.<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>Is he, eh ... difficult to persuade?<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>Well, he probably ain’t impossible. Glad to see you looking so well.<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>But, Mr. Mayor, can’t we ...<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>Drop in again some afternoon. We’ll go to a game. You like baseball don’t you?<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>Well, I’m not a fan by any means.<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>You know that’s where you fellows make your biggest mistake.<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>Yes ...<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>You worry too much about business and contracts and the flaws in them, and things like that. Get out in the open, fill your lungs with fresh air. Forget your troubles.<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>But let me ...<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>Now look at that crowd. How many people do you think there were at the game?<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>I’m sure I don’t have the faintest idea.<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>Look again. How many people do you think there are in that photograph?<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>10,000.<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>Guess again.<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>20,000. Mr. Mayor ...<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>You’re not even warm, Mr. Maxwell.<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>Well ... [Suddenly realizing what</span><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">’s really going on.] </span>Oh. You mean it’s more like 40,000?<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>It’s more like it. But that ain’t it.<br />
<b>Maxwell: </b>Mr. Mayor, about that flaw you mentioned ...<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>There’s no flaw in that photograph, Mr. Maxwell. It’s perfect. What was your last guess? <br />
<b>Maxwell</b>: 50,000?<br />
<b>McGinty: </b>[Laughs]. There were 75,000 people in that stadium. Ain’t that wonderful? 75,000 filling their lungs with nature’s own sunshine. I’ll send the guy up to see you. Goodbye.</span><br />
<br />
You can watch the scene here:<br />
<br />
<iframe 0="" allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3lUB4un8Zzw/0.jpg" height="333" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3lUB4un8Zzw?start=29;rel=0&showinfo=0 frameborder=" width="400"></iframe><br />
<br />
The photo to which Mayor McGinty refers is shown full screen.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtieB2AxnI8/Xs5bW1a5AMI/AAAAAAAAFqI/TK4SKg24rOsaqgVQXM0-Wwsx96dDgxkHwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/screen-shot.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GtieB2AxnI8/Xs5bW1a5AMI/AAAAAAAAFqI/TK4SKg24rOsaqgVQXM0-Wwsx96dDgxkHwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/screen-shot.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Smack dab in the middle of this movie, McGinty has asked a baseball trivia question. Of course, for the mayor, he’s not asking about baseball at all. But for me, he is. So, let me pose the same question (but, lucky for you, I won’t expect a payoff): “How many people do you think there are in that photograph?”<br />
<br />
To answer the question, we must first determine exactly what game is pictured.<br />
<h2>
The Ballpark</h2>
Take a close look at the upper deck and you’ll see that it is adorned with a unique and very familiar frieze, one that has long been associated with just one ballpark.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XDVHdKo0ODI/Xs5bpekYB2I/AAAAAAAAFqQ/ZszoRcCaSuYMvZnUbGXN95WObILQeMIWgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1927-blueprint-frieze-detail.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XDVHdKo0ODI/Xs5bpekYB2I/AAAAAAAAFqQ/ZszoRcCaSuYMvZnUbGXN95WObILQeMIWgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1927-blueprint-frieze-detail.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Detail from 1927 Osborne Engineering architectural drawing showing Yankee Stadium frieze</span><br />
<br />
There’s no question we’re taking a look at Yankee Stadium. This also means that the photo was taken no earlier than the opening of the stadium: 1923.<br />
<h2>
The Decorative Bunting</h2>
Those with a keen eye will also notice that the photo shows that the facades of each deck at Yankee Stadium are adorned with bunting: patriotic fans (the arched, red, white, and blue bunting) and traditional U.S. flags. It was (and still is) common to decorate baseball parks in this fashion for special events such as opening days, patriotic holidays, All-Star Games, and World Series.<br />
<br />
There’s little doubt that something special was going on at Yankee Stadium when the photograph was taken.<br />
<h2>
The End of the Right Field Grandstand </h2>
Another clue in the photo is that we can clearly see the end of the right field grandstand. It stops rather abruptly, short of the right field foul line. But during the 1937 season, the Yankees extended that grandstand such that it curved around into fair territory beyond the foul pole.<br />
<br />
Here’s a photo of Yankee Stadium during the 1936 World Series:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y3mFbRbxtEE/Xs5cBJ8Tu7I/AAAAAAAAFqY/Rpi0lxHePbQ9eK6iO17wQEokzqIQhitVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Yankee-Stadium-1936.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y3mFbRbxtEE/Xs5cBJ8Tu7I/AAAAAAAAFqY/Rpi0lxHePbQ9eK6iO17wQEokzqIQhitVgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Yankee-Stadium-1936.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
... and here’s an aerial photo taken during the 1937 World Series, showing the extended grandstand:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tjw19E6CfXM/Xs5cNDmyncI/AAAAAAAAFqc/HTQyzwtYMlYFlAiRtt_Qu60JPKj89N7kgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Yankee-Stadium-1937.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Tjw19E6CfXM/Xs5cNDmyncI/AAAAAAAAFqc/HTQyzwtYMlYFlAiRtt_Qu60JPKj89N7kgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Yankee-Stadium-1937.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>LIFE</i>, October 18, 1937</span><br />
<br />
This means that McGinty’s photograph must have been taken before the extension was completed, we now have a “no-later-than” date of 1937. <br />
<h2>
“It’s a Grand Old Game”</h2>
After a good deal of searching, I managed to stumble across this piece of sheet music for a 1931 tune titled “It’s a Grand Old Game”:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-57ek46mrc_k/Xs5dk2m5YZI/AAAAAAAAFqs/btS2jB3g7espOjWv3eKKzdie-8XatXElQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/sheet-music.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-57ek46mrc_k/Xs5dk2m5YZI/AAAAAAAAFqs/btS2jB3g7espOjWv3eKKzdie-8XatXElQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/sheet-music.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
That sure does look like the same photo as that seen on the wall in McGinty’s office. However, when I cropped that photo (removing the picture frame) and laid it over the sheet music cover, I noticed some very subtle differences.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rpDI3LdzNLc/Xs5v0q8bkcI/AAAAAAAAFtI/Q6F1S52mA30esHRCKaKZGLxP2sFN2VJRACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/animated%2Boverlay.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rpDI3LdzNLc/Xs5v0q8bkcI/AAAAAAAAFtI/Q6F1S52mA30esHRCKaKZGLxP2sFN2VJRACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/animated%2Boverlay.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
In particular, notice that the bunting on the very corner of the right field upper-deck grandstand has moved slightly. Also notice that the players and umpires on the field are not in the same positions. There’s little question that the photos, while not identical, were taken just minutes apart.<br />
<br />
Given that the sheet music was published in 1931, we now know the photo must have been taken sometime between 1923 and 1931.<br />
<br />
A few web sites state that the photo on the sheet music shows action during a World Series game between the Giants and Yankees in 1923. For example, the <a href="http://keymancollectibles.com/publications/itsagrandoldganesheetmusic.htm" target="_blank">KeyMan Collectibles web site</a> notes that “the front cover shows a scene from a World Series game between the New York Giants and the New York Yankees in 1923 at Yankee Stadium.” And, <a href="https://www.gettyimages.com/detail/news-photo/front-cover-from-sheet-music-for-the-tune-its-a-grand-old-news-photo/56043094" target="_blank">a picture of the sheet music at Getty Images</a> states that the cover “shows a scene from a World Series game between the New York Giants and the New York Yankees in 1923 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York.”<br />
<br />
However, there is a problem with this identification. Known photographs of Yankee Stadium during the 1923 World Series show no bunting on the facades of the grandstand. For example, here’s a photo that was published in the October 13, 1923, issue of the <i>Washington (D.C.) Sunday Star</i> taken prior to Game Three at Yankee Stadium:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1_QmKzdkRy0/Xs5e1yPuoxI/AAAAAAAAFrE/V_CaETY0escpnduHGraDakv7qqZRGfbNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Wash-Evening-Star-Oct-13-19.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1_QmKzdkRy0/Xs5e1yPuoxI/AAAAAAAAFrE/V_CaETY0escpnduHGraDakv7qqZRGfbNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Wash-Evening-Star-Oct-13-19.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
No. The sheet music photo, and therefore McGinty’s photo, are not from the 1923 World Series.<br />
<br />
So, what is the exact date of the game we see in the photo? To answer that question, we must consider three additional clues: the umpires, the visitors’ baseball caps, and a second look at the decorative bunting.<br />
<h2>
The Umpires</h2>
As the umpires are all wearing black, it makes it quite easy to count just how many are on the field in McGinty’s photo. There are four. On the face of it, this clue doesn’t seem to be of much help, as we are familiar with most every big league game having four umpires. But such was not the case during the time frame we are considering.<br />
<br />
By analyzing data made available (for free!) at the always-invaluable <a href="https://www.retrosheet.org/gamelogs/index.html" target="_blank">Retrosheet web site</a>, I was able to determine the number of umpires used in each of the 11,092 regular season games played in the major leagues from 1923 through 1931. Here’s the breakdown:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>A four umpire-crew was used in 27 games (0.24% of games)</li>
<li>A three umpire-crew was used in 7,897 games (71.20% of games)</li>
<li>A two umpire-crew was used in 3,167 games (28.55% of games)</li>
<li>A single umpire was used in 1 game (0.01% of games played)</li>
</ul>
In other words, the vast majority (a whopping 99.75%) of all big league games played during this window of time featured either a two- or three-man umpiring crew.<br />
<br />
But for our purposes, we only need to take a look at the 692 regular-season games played at Yankee Stadium from 1923 through 1931. When we do, the breakdown is as follows:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>A four umpire-crew was used in 4 games at Yankee Stadium (0.58% of games)</li>
<li>A three umpire-crew was used in 548 games at Yankee Stadium (79.19% of games)</li>
<li>A two umpire-crew was used in 140 games at Yankee Stadium (20.23% of games)</li>
<li>A single umpire was never used in a game at Yankee Stadium (0.00% of games played)</li>
</ul>
Again, nearly every game featured a two- or three-man umpiring crew: 99.42%! And over our nine-season span just four games at Yankee Stadium were umpired by a four-man crew. In fact, these games were all part of just one series between the Philadelphia Athletics and New York Yankees played in September of 1928: a Sunday afternoon doubleheader on September 9, followed by single games on September 11 and September 12. The fourth umpire was added by American League President Ernest S. Barnard because of the importance of the games: the Yankees trailed the first-place Athletics by just half a game as the clubs headed into the opening doubleheader.<br />
<br />
Now take a look this wonderful panoramic photograph of Yankee Stadium from the collection of the <a href="http://www.baseballhall.org/" target="_blank">National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum</a>:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fyJY4iKkW5I/Xs5gWrBdd0I/AAAAAAAAFrQ/5DldI98YcMw21SEX4pFKyiTlnnJVZDVNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Athletics-vs-Yankees-Sep-9-.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fyJY4iKkW5I/Xs5gWrBdd0I/AAAAAAAAFrQ/5DldI98YcMw21SEX4pFKyiTlnnJVZDVNQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Athletics-vs-Yankees-Sep-9-.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Don’t be fooled by the handwritten label in the top right-hand corner of the panoramic that reads “WORLD’S SERIES / 1928 / N.Y. YANKEES – ST. LOUIS CARDINALS.” That information is incorrect, as detailed in <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2013/09/a-yankee-stadium-mystery-rare-footage.html" target="_blank">my blog titled “A Yankee Stadium Mystery: Rare Footage of Babe Ruth and the Puzzling Panorama of a Packed Park.”</a> The correct date for this photo is September 9, 1928. That’s right! Conveniently for our research, the picture was taken during the very doubleheader that led off the four-game set at Yankee Stadium in which four umpires took the field.<br />
<br />
And now let’s take a closer look at the panoramic:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RoITGM9ON8M/Xs5gz0BgoEI/AAAAAAAAFrY/r8Pz61PVDgET1yPb6kIVC0qHnHvqt5jeACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/yankee_stadium_1928_Not_1928_WS.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RoITGM9ON8M/Xs5gz0BgoEI/AAAAAAAAFrY/r8Pz61PVDgET1yPb6kIVC0qHnHvqt5jeACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/yankee_stadium_1928_Not_1928_WS.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Here we clearly see the four umpires (circled). What we don’t see, however, is any bunting at the park. We can safely assume that if there were no such decorations for the doubleheader, the club wouldn’t bother to add bunting for the third or fourth games of the series. In other words, the photo from “The Great McGinty” is inconsistent with any of these four games and so it must not have been taken during the regular season. Yankee Stadium did not host its first All-Star Game until 1939, which means that the only real possibility is that the photo was taken during a World Series.<br />
<br />
From 1923 through 1931, the Yankees played in four Fall Classics: 1923, 1926, 1927, and 1928. But as we have already determined, 1923 can be ruled out (no bunting at Yankee Stadium during that World Series). This leaves us with just the 1926 and 1928 World Series against the St. Louis Cardinals and the 1927 Series against the Pittsburgh Pirates.<br />
<h2>
The Visitors’ Baseball Caps</h2>
Careful examination of McGinty’s photo, as well as the sheet music photo that was taken at nearly the same time, shows that the players on defense are wearing light-colored caps. As the Yankees wore their traditional dark caps during the 1926, 1927, and 1928 World Series, the players in the field must be members of the visiting club. In both the 1926 and 1928 World Series, the Cardinals wore caps with a light-colored crown (and dark bill), which you can see in these World Series photos:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tN15hxtVemU/Xs5hfRayebI/AAAAAAAAFrk/ILonP8uzjFUJtsCtQyQnQpX0Xbw5PS0uACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1926-WS-caps.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tN15hxtVemU/Xs5hfRayebI/AAAAAAAAFrk/ILonP8uzjFUJtsCtQyQnQpX0Xbw5PS0uACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1926-WS-caps.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Babe Ruth and Rogers Hornsby meet at the 1926 World Series</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CU72bl_Lb_s/Xs5ho2G5YRI/AAAAAAAAFro/RvhpIe0WULYeLn3ar-o48azkdpvRdlonwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1928-WS-caps.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CU72bl_Lb_s/Xs5ho2G5YRI/AAAAAAAAFro/RvhpIe0WULYeLn3ar-o48azkdpvRdlonwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1928-WS-caps.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Bill McKechnie and Miller Huggins meet at the 1928 World Series</span><br />
<br />
But during the 1927 Series the Pirates wore dark caps, as worn by the base runner in this photo:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZHP7xL95RI/Xs5iSs2Ub4I/AAAAAAAAFr4/jiS7AHf7ZDYsBv84i7S0jkCEDKR3wv6BQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1927-WS-caps.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zZHP7xL95RI/Xs5iSs2Ub4I/AAAAAAAAFr4/jiS7AHf7ZDYsBv84i7S0jkCEDKR3wv6BQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1927-WS-caps.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Action from the 1927 World Series</span><br />
<br />
And so we have now eliminated 1927 as a possible year for McGinty’s office photo, leaving us with just 1926 and 1928.<br />
<h2>
A Second Look at the Decorative Bunting</h2>
Take a look at the following pair of pictures taken at Yankee Stadium. The top photo is from the 1926 World Series and the bottom from the 1928 World Series.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ovH9GfHqwS8/Xs5jBCOO1kI/AAAAAAAAFsA/gQvB19TfvMsyC33WxlWC7XLuiPQjVr6LwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1926-WS.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ovH9GfHqwS8/Xs5jBCOO1kI/AAAAAAAAFsA/gQvB19TfvMsyC33WxlWC7XLuiPQjVr6LwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1926-WS.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Yankee Stadium during the 1926 World Series</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JxU_9rxhVpI/Xs5jGPpPiqI/AAAAAAAAFsE/rbH9mnX14LIrel3RntLdjl9bCbxFT1dCACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1928-WS.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JxU_9rxhVpI/Xs5jGPpPiqI/AAAAAAAAFsE/rbH9mnX14LIrel3RntLdjl9bCbxFT1dCACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1928-WS.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Yankee Stadium during the 1928 World Series</span><br />
<br />
Notice that unlike the photo of the 1928 World Series (bottom), the photo from the 1926 World Series (top) shows no decorative bunting at Yankee Stadium. Just why the club opted not to adorn their park that fall is unknown, but it eliminates 1926 as a possible year for McGinty’s photo. We are now left to look for a matching photo in the 1928 World Series.<br />
<h2>
Finding a Matching Photo</h2>
In 1928, the Yankees avenged their 1926 World Series defeat at the hands of the Cardinals by trouncing St. Louis in a four-game sweep. Only the first two games of the Series took place at Yankee Stadium, suggesting that McGinty’s photo captures a scene from either Game One (October 4) or Game Two (October 5). On October 14, 1928, the <i>Washington (D.C.) Sunday Star</i> published this photo of Game One in its Gravure Supplement:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A1pDBIfi5Vk/Xs5jqmR9pLI/AAAAAAAAFsM/rLuUvnAItyQphl-M3VFHgJdGGGmYJaXRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Wash-Eve-Star-Oct-14-1928-gravure.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A1pDBIfi5Vk/Xs5jqmR9pLI/AAAAAAAAFsM/rLuUvnAItyQphl-M3VFHgJdGGGmYJaXRQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Wash-Eve-Star-Oct-14-1928-gravure.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The picture is the same one that was used on the cover of “It’s a Grand Old Game,” and (as previously discussed) taken at nearly the same as the one seen in “The Great McGinty.”<br />
<br />
Having determined the exact game pictured, let’s get back to our original question ...<br />
<h2>
How many people do you think there are in that photograph?</h2>
According to most every source, the reported attendance for Game One of the 1928 World Series was 61,425 ... a figure far short of McGinty’s claim of 75,000. But is that really the correct number?<br />
<br />
The reported attendance was the total number of people who paid to attend, not the total number of people in the park. The latter number is much more a matter of conjecture, but is most certainly larger than 61,425. Contemporary newspaper accounts generally estimated the crowd to be anywhere from 70,000 to 80,000. Here are just a few notes from contemporary newspaper stories:<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wnqXpYL2C2Q/Xs5kbjvrptI/AAAAAAAAFsY/vsAbIjnWlZUvCtvlckN3lDEzcbYh8fSJwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/att-Press-and-Sun-Bull-oct4.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wnqXpYL2C2Q/Xs5kbjvrptI/AAAAAAAAFsY/vsAbIjnWlZUvCtvlckN3lDEzcbYh8fSJwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/att-Press-and-Sun-Bull-oct4.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Binghamton (NY) Press and Sun Bulletin</i>, October 4, 1928</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DFQTcdhWsGA/Xs5kcNPz-cI/AAAAAAAAFsg/YfA7d1QCwIkX0VtkYUkoO3-6GOXdqT-UQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/att-Press-and-Sun-Bull-oct5.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DFQTcdhWsGA/Xs5kcNPz-cI/AAAAAAAAFsg/YfA7d1QCwIkX0VtkYUkoO3-6GOXdqT-UQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/att-Press-and-Sun-Bull-oct5.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Binghamton (NY) Press and Sun Bulletin</i>, October 5, 1928</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dpf_R9Yr4Hc/Xs5uH1k1sAI/AAAAAAAAFs8/CyJ1S6mDnWoUn4dm_6hR32RrNRaLHHAowCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/att-democ-and-chron-oct-5.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dpf_R9Yr4Hc/Xs5uH1k1sAI/AAAAAAAAFs8/CyJ1S6mDnWoUn4dm_6hR32RrNRaLHHAowCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/att-democ-and-chron-oct-5.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Rochester (NY) Democrat and Chronicle</i>, October 5, 1928</span><br />
<br />
In summary, while it’s not possible to know the exact number of people at Yankee Stadium that day, we can be sure that the figure exceeds Mr. Maxwell’s final guess of 50,000. Indeed, The Great McGinty may very well have been correct when he said, “There were 75,000 people in that stadium. Ain’t that wonderful? 75,000 filling their lungs with nature’s own sunshine.”<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-19456815866097917082020-04-26T18:47:00.000-04:002020-04-27T07:59:26.548-04:00Researching a Photo of Mickey Mantle: A Lot More Information Makes a Lot More Desirable<br />
In their Spring 2020 Premium Auction, Goldin Auctions offers this composite photograph as <a href="https://goldinauctions.com/1951_Mickey_Mantle_Rookie_International_News_Batti-LOT60108.aspx" target="_blank">Lot #1430</a>:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_wJmAQgs8k/XqYFnVS34eI/AAAAAAAAFoo/qwEsp8q1IvU5t8zorHEvI7IPvREMjLgwQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cropped.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-C_wJmAQgs8k/XqYFnVS34eI/AAAAAAAAFoo/qwEsp8q1IvU5t8zorHEvI7IPvREMjLgwQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/cropped.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The photo comes with this description:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Offered here is a composite 8 x 10 photograph of the great Mickey Mantle. This black and white photograph shows Mantle in his home white Yankees’ uniform in two poses – the first image on top is of Mantle loading up his right-handed swing and the bottom image is of Mantle and his swing right at impact. The image can be dated to 1951, the season he wore number “6”, which is clearly evident from the bottom photo. The back has “M. Mantle” and the number “1168870” handwritten in pencil with the “International News Photo” stamp in faded red ink on the bottom. This composite photograph has been encapsulated and authenticated by PSA (84188301) and classified as Type III.</blockquote>
While the description is correct when it states that “the image can be dated to 1951,” the folks at Goldin Auctions missed a rather important fact about these pictures that would probably be of interest to potential bidders and certainly would be advantageous to both the seller and auction house. With a little research, the <i>exact </i>date of the pictures can be determined, and given this more detailed information the photo undoubtedly becomes far more desirable and valuable.<br />
<br />
Here’s the step-by-step research:<br />
<br />
<h3>
Who’s at bat?</h3>
<br />
That’s an easy one. It’s clearly Mickey Mantle.<br />
<br />
Not only does the batter look like Mantle, but he is wearing a Yankees cap and Yankees pinstripes, the uniform number 6 is on his back, and his left sleeve is adorned with a 1951 American League Golden Anniversary patch.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7eULs5jk5Uw/XqYHW77FGkI/AAAAAAAAFo0/PURMqcwoDV0yYm1w1IUnib6sEL26dM-MQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bpl.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7eULs5jk5Uw/XqYHW77FGkI/AAAAAAAAFo0/PURMqcwoDV0yYm1w1IUnib6sEL26dM-MQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bpl.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Yankees Bobby Brown and Billy Martin wearing jerseys with the American League Golden Anniversary patch, 1951</span><br />
<br />
Only two Yankee players wore number 6 in 1951: Bobby Brown and Mickey Mantle. Not only does the batter not look like Bobby Brown, but Brown batted exclusively left-handed. Our right-handed batter is most certainly Mickey Mantle.<br />
<br />
Of course, Mantle is best known for wearing number 7. After all, that is the number the Yankees retired on June 8, 1969, to honor the beloved Yankees slugger.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X51QXAfn3mI/XqYHi3bWqvI/AAAAAAAAFo4/NfDuHVRJHQQf32VGKndJKYRwKRyBMiFugCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/mantle%2Bretired%2Bnumber.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X51QXAfn3mI/XqYHi3bWqvI/AAAAAAAAFo4/NfDuHVRJHQQf32VGKndJKYRwKRyBMiFugCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/mantle%2Bretired%2Bnumber.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Mickey Mantle in the Yankee Stadium clubhouse on the day his uniform number was retired, June 8, 1969.</span><br />
<br />
But when Mantle first made the big league club, famed clubhouse manager Pete Sheehy gave the 19-year-old the number 6, the number previously that had been worn by third baseman Bobby Brown since 1948. On July 15, the struggling Mantle was optioned to the American Association Kansas City Blues and Brown regained number 6.<br />
<br />
Brown flourished wearing his old number. During Mantle’s nearly six-week stint in the minors, Brown boosted his average from .244 on July 15 to .280 on August 25, the day that Mantle rejoined the Yanks. Understandably, Brown kept his good luck number 6, so Sheehy gave Mantle number 7. The rest is history.<br />
<br />
As far as the photo goes, we have thus far established that:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>the year is 1951, because he is wearing the American League 50th Anniversary patch;</li>
<li>the location is Yankee Stadium, because the batter is wearing home pinstripes;</li>
<li>the batter is Mickey Mantle, because he is wearing uniform number 6 and bats right-handed.</li>
</ul>
<h3>
Who is the opposition and when did they visit Yankee Stadium?</h3>
<br />
Turning our attention to the catcher, we see that his stockings are dark with a pair of broad, white stripes. This particular style was worn by just one major league club in 1951: the Boston Red Sox<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1P9Csx86mlA/XqYH_p1HTTI/AAAAAAAAFpE/nwpKqvPD_pQepA-krjBammDFQ9gY-H14wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/redsox-in-1951.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1P9Csx86mlA/XqYH_p1HTTI/AAAAAAAAFpE/nwpKqvPD_pQepA-krjBammDFQ9gY-H14wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/redsox-in-1951.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The 1951 Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park</span><br />
<br />
A quick look at the <a href="https://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/1951/VNYA01951.htm" target="_blank">schedule of games played at Yankee Stadium</a> reveals that during Mantle’s stint wearing number 6 (from the beginning of the season through July 13), the Boston Red Sox played at Yankee Stadium just five times: April 17, April 18, June 29, June 30, and July 1. And of these games, Mantle participated in just three: April 17, April 18, and June 30. But we can additionally eliminate the date of April 18, as the Red Sox pitchers that day were Harry Taylor and Ellis Kinder, both right-handers. As such, the switch-hitting Mantle would have batted lefty the entire day, not righty as seen in the photograph.<br />
<br />
Thus the pictures of Mantle batting must have been taken on one of two dates: April 17 or June 30, 1951. The former was Opening Day at Yankee Stadium and marked the major league debut of the highly touted rookie. The latter was a run-of-the-mill contest in which Mantle pinch-hit for starting pitcher Bob Kuzava in the eighth inning, grounding out to second base for the first out.<br />
<br />
<h3>
What is the date?</h3>
<br />
So which date is it: April 17 or June 30?<br />
<br />
One might hope that identifying the catcher would help out. After all, the Red Sox used no fewer than seven different catchers during the 1951 season. But for both the April 17 and June 30 games, the catching duties were exclusively performed by former Yankees backstop Buddy Rosar, playing in the last of his 13 big league seasons.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ofd6oUzgmg0/XqYIXDbwmaI/AAAAAAAAFpM/oYcF8nWgC2gEwgFJuwulBfKKM9Xuwi4tACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/buddy-rosar.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ofd6oUzgmg0/XqYIXDbwmaI/AAAAAAAAFpM/oYcF8nWgC2gEwgFJuwulBfKKM9Xuwi4tACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/buddy-rosar.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Red Sox catcher, Buddy Rosar</span><br />
<br />
To determine which date was correct, it was necessary to scour contemporary newspapers in hopes of finding these pictures of Mantle in print. It turns out that on April 20, 1951, the <i>Des Moines (IA) Register </i>(as well as a number of other newspapers) ran these very Mantle pictures, as well as a third in which Mantle is seen completing his follow through, the number 6 prominently shown. This effectively eliminates June 30 as a possibility, clinching the date as April 17, 1951.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dq-Z3qvrCU4/XqYI7kHIYUI/AAAAAAAAFpY/g6ynWG7nwJMhzxgjsx3pBe4UcWXGiA_lACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/desmoinesregister.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Dq-Z3qvrCU4/XqYI7kHIYUI/AAAAAAAAFpY/g6ynWG7nwJMhzxgjsx3pBe4UcWXGiA_lACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/desmoinesregister.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>Des Moines (IA) Register</i>, April 20, 1951</span><br />
<br />
In fact, the <i>Register</i>’s caption reads: “Here’s a three-picture sequence of the highly publicized rookie getting his first big league hit.” Assuming the caption is indeed correct, we are seeing Mantle hitting a sixth-inning single.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8MPUN6bdw4k/XqYJrfTLaQI/AAAAAAAAFpg/qVYzKF6ohV8fi_2t33ZcyBDK3_uG0kuOgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/scorecard%2Bof%2Bapril%2B17%2B1951.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8MPUN6bdw4k/XqYJrfTLaQI/AAAAAAAAFpg/qVYzKF6ohV8fi_2t33ZcyBDK3_uG0kuOgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/scorecard%2Bof%2Bapril%2B17%2B1951.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Scorecard from Opening Day Game at Yankee Stadium, April 17, 1951</span><br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
The Conclusion</h3>
<br />
Any photograph showing Mickey Mantle during his rookie season is likely to be of great interest to a baseball fan, let alone a collector. And as far as Goldin Auctions notes in its lot description, that is what you’d be getting with this composite photograph. But by digging a bit deeper, the story behind the pictures becomes far more engaging, for we now know that the photograph offered shows one of the greatest baseball players of all time in his major league debut.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-39195750828168426532020-01-25T12:41:00.001-05:002020-07-09T13:48:15.555-04:00Zee-Nuts and Zee-Numbers<br />
In 1912, the Collins McCarthy Candy Company issued its second series of Zee-Nut baseball cards. That same year, the confectioners produced another series of cards, these packaged with a candy called Home Run Kisses. With the release of these two sets, the San Francisco-based company unwittingly documented an important, but generally overlooked moment in baseball history. More about that in a moment, but first a bit about the candies.<br />
<h2>
Zee-Nut </h2>
Introduced in California in 1908 and invented by William P. Chase, Zee-Nut candy was something like a coconut version of Cracker Jack, the popular candy that was first introduced a dozen years earlier. Zee-Nut consisted of popcorn, peanuts, and coconut, all mixed together with a sugary syrup. Chase (who later sold out to Collins McCarthy) worked hard to market the candy, and in March of 1908 it quite literally exploded on the scene:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tRrxMmybSLw/Xg1OA_1MhiI/AAAAAAAAFlM/4t9BcWWGEs0tvdlPeWL5FpoH3X6U6g5dACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/LA%2BHerald%2BMarch%2B1%2B1908.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tRrxMmybSLw/Xg1OA_1MhiI/AAAAAAAAFlM/4t9BcWWGEs0tvdlPeWL5FpoH3X6U6g5dACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/LA%2BHerald%2BMarch%2B1%2B1908.jpe" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Advertisement in the <i>Los Angeles Herald</i> of March 1, 1908</span><br />
<br />
As noted in the <i>Los Angeles Herald</i> of March 1, 1908, “THE HERALD will ‘explode’ a bomb up in the air about a thousand feet above the W.P. CHASE Zee-Nut Factory, 420-422 South Broadway, and as it explodes 1030 coupons will be set loose and fall to the street below. Each of these coupons will be good for free presents.” The presents listed included silver dollars, boxes of candy, fountain pens, watch fobs, and, of course, packages of Zee-Nut.<br />
<br />
There were even coupons for sheet music of the “Zee-Nut Waltz-Song and Chorus,” with music and lyrics by Chase, and published by Chase. In short, William Chase was all in on promoting his candy.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1fNnAy4vN_s/Xg1OmgKGcqI/AAAAAAAAFlU/eoOE2nsix6sEvqE4Kadmdzvh5QJBUEqEACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/zee-nut-waltz.JPG"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1fNnAy4vN_s/Xg1OmgKGcqI/AAAAAAAAFlU/eoOE2nsix6sEvqE4Kadmdzvh5QJBUEqEACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/zee-nut-waltz.JPG" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
In 1911, Collins McCarthy enticed kids to purchase Zee-Nut by inserting pictures of Pacific Coast League players in packages of their candy. Apparently the scheme worked well, because they continued the baseball card promotion the following year ... and for many years afterward, their last set being issued in the late 1930s.<br />
<br />
The 1912 Zee-Nut cards (each 2⅛" × 4" in size) once again featured pictures of PCL minor leaguers. The complete set numbered 158 cards in total (some sources say 159) and is known to modern-day collectors by the designation E136.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-of3Ir9XOSW0/Xg1O1-MpVEI/AAAAAAAAFlY/LLItJuVsQacoLBjA47z31teOAUBvByAYQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/SF%2BCall%2BMay%2B11%2B1912%2BZee%2BNut%2BAd.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-of3Ir9XOSW0/Xg1O1-MpVEI/AAAAAAAAFlY/LLItJuVsQacoLBjA47z31teOAUBvByAYQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/SF%2BCall%2BMay%2B11%2B1912%2BZee%2BNut%2BAd.jpe" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Advertisement in the <i>San Francisco Call </i>of May 11, 1912</span><br />
<br />
Highlights from this set include:<br />
<br />
A card of Sacramento pitcher John Williams, who two years later played four games with the Detroit Tigers to earn the distinction of being the first native of Hawaii to play in the major leagues.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pl5kKU2OfqI/Xg1PgRYN2JI/AAAAAAAAFlo/-nJTADLY1mAryglwVi_Qae2BN8D0S257wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/williams.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pl5kKU2OfqI/Xg1PgRYN2JI/AAAAAAAAFlo/-nJTADLY1mAryglwVi_Qae2BN8D0S257wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/williams.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
A card of 18-year-old Joe Gedeon, who spent the 1912 season with the San Francisco Seals, batting .263 and stealing 26 bases. Though he eventually made the big leagues, Gedeon’s mark in baseball history came about off the field, when he admitted in the fall of 1920 that a year earlier he had learned from White Sox shortstop and insider Swede Risberg that the 1919 World Series was “fixed.” Gedeon, then the starting second baseman for the St. Louis Browns, won $600 betting against Chicago. On November 3, 1921, Commissioner Kenesaw M. Landis permanently banned Gedeon from the game.<br />
<br />
And perhaps you have heard of Gedeon’s nephew, Elmer Gedeon, who had a “cup of coffee” with the Washington Senators in 1939, taking part in five games with the club in his brief major league career. On April 20, 1944, Gedeon’s B-26 Marauder bomber was shot down over France. Of the over 500 major leaguers who served during World War II, only Elmer Gedeon and Harry O’Neill, who played a single game with the Philadelphia Athletics in 1939, were killed during action. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JDBlzfs0T_Q/Xg1PmOfFUWI/AAAAAAAAFls/xTrE-gpt4C0-8GTPgPjiBjim2qs6YtFqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/gedeon.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JDBlzfs0T_Q/Xg1PmOfFUWI/AAAAAAAAFls/xTrE-gpt4C0-8GTPgPjiBjim2qs6YtFqwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/gedeon.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<h2>
Home Run Kisses</h2>
Hardly anything is known about Home Run Kisses, a confection that was apparently something like salt-water taffy. Introduced by Collins McCarthy in 1912, each five-cent package of the candy came with a PCL player card similar in size to the Zee-Nuts, though the set numbered just 90 cards. Highlights include:<br />
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An early card of future Hall of Fame shortstop Dave Bancroft when he was a member of the Portland Beavers.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XMxJzRiALkE/Xg1P4_WhsBI/AAAAAAAAFl4/V-BS-x60NlQEV-J7aouAQK2rLs9N2nKxACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Portland%2BBancroft%2BKisses.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XMxJzRiALkE/Xg1P4_WhsBI/AAAAAAAAFl4/V-BS-x60NlQEV-J7aouAQK2rLs9N2nKxACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Portland%2BBancroft%2BKisses.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
A card of Los Angeles Angels outfielder Heinie Heitmuller, who captured the 1912 PCL batting championship with a .335 mark, but contracted typhoid fever and passed away weeks before the season ended.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y-mn-iTOHDk/Xg1Qqqc8SxI/AAAAAAAAFmE/wO3R9oLqR-AYNL38V-wcLMO7WkwCmqJBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Los%2BAngeles%2BHeitmuller.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-y-mn-iTOHDk/Xg1Qqqc8SxI/AAAAAAAAFmE/wO3R9oLqR-AYNL38V-wcLMO7WkwCmqJBwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Los%2BAngeles%2BHeitmuller.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
But the truly wonderful thing about both the 1912 Zee-Nut and Home Run Kisses cards is that many of the pictures showed ballplayers wearing numbers on their left sleeves. Here are just a few examples that clearly shows the numbers:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYpcRXZQ4rc/Xg1RozYn97I/AAAAAAAAFmU/cmbe8lGgZvYRui4apt_00XYAAlrxJkMGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Los%2BAngeles%2BBoles.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zYpcRXZQ4rc/Xg1RozYn97I/AAAAAAAAFmU/cmbe8lGgZvYRui4apt_00XYAAlrxJkMGwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Los%2BAngeles%2BBoles.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BrrrvOPT8vU/Xg1RnWs-vUI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/hmfI3ztqduULnsYg3BXd-ocyNlQZn0C-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Oakland%2BMalarkey.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BrrrvOPT8vU/Xg1RnWs-vUI/AAAAAAAAFmQ/hmfI3ztqduULnsYg3BXd-ocyNlQZn0C-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Oakland%2BMalarkey.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0F9oOECK1a4/Xg1SXXRrhrI/AAAAAAAAFmg/BGMEMr2MY98jW1jTOF7TylHWzkMDekZDACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Portland%2BChadbourne.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0F9oOECK1a4/Xg1SXXRrhrI/AAAAAAAAFmg/BGMEMr2MY98jW1jTOF7TylHWzkMDekZDACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Portland%2BChadbourne.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T3O7Ckv4L20/Xg1SY_IFHPI/AAAAAAAAFmo/MJP0JPOkQWIt9zpLaTbkZu5V9EyRBIH-ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/San%2BFrancisco%2BMcArdle.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T3O7Ckv4L20/Xg1SY_IFHPI/AAAAAAAAFmo/MJP0JPOkQWIt9zpLaTbkZu5V9EyRBIH-ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/San%2BFrancisco%2BMcArdle.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
What gives?<br />
<br />
At their annual winter baseball meeting in January of 1912, the directors of the Pacific Coast League adopted a league-wide rule mandating that all six clubs add numbers to the sleeves of their uniforms, both home and abroad.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7QAWMkG9R0/Xg1Wd9kAuUI/AAAAAAAAFm4/OMWuzHhnAMgNXaCqWN5jUiraNCv2JVA9ACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Akron-Beacon-Journal-Jan-16.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z7QAWMkG9R0/Xg1Wd9kAuUI/AAAAAAAAFm4/OMWuzHhnAMgNXaCqWN5jUiraNCv2JVA9ACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Akron-Beacon-Journal-Jan-16.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Akron Beacon Journal</i>, January 16, 1912</span><br />
<h2>
Early Uniform Numbering</h2>
The idea of numbering players had been tried by various clubs, both in and out of Organized Baseball, years prior to the PCL’s 1912 rule, but never before had it been agreed upon by an entire league.<br />
<br />
Most people credit the 1929 Yankees as the first baseball club to place uniform numbers on the backs of their jerseys, but this was simply not the case. In fact, the Yankees weren’t even the first club to don numbers that season. That distinction goes to the Cleveland Indians, who beat the Yanks to the punch because the New Yorkers were rained out on Opening Day, while Cleveland remained dry that same day, April 16, 1929. A photo ran in the <i>Cleveland Plain Dealer</i> the next day, showing Indians catcher Luke Sewell wearing uniform number 8 in that historic game:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fqx_cpCGc80/XhuwE71PYVI/AAAAAAAAFnE/OZ_msOjLKf49WyM-pb1YLr0NE8ockZu7wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/cleplaindealer-april171929.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Fqx_cpCGc80/XhuwE71PYVI/AAAAAAAAFnE/OZ_msOjLKf49WyM-pb1YLr0NE8ockZu7wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/cleplaindealer-april171929.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Cleveland Plain Dealer</i>, April 17, 1929</span><br />
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While the 1929 Indians were the first major league baseball club to wear numbers on their backs, they weren’t the first in the big leagues to wear numbers <i>somewhere </i>on their uniform. That distinction goes to these same Indians, but 13 years earlier. On June 26, 1916, Cleveland took the field wearing numbers on their sleeves. As noted by the <i>Zanesville (OH) Times Record </i>the next day, “The numbers corresponded to similar numbers set opposite the players<span style="color: black; font-family: "calibri"; font-size: 12pt;">’</span> names on the score cards, so that all fans in the stands might easily identify the members of the home club.”<br />
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This photo of the Indians with their short-lived numbers ran in the 1917 <i>Spalding Guide</i>. Note: Don’t confuse the numbers on the sleeves with the numbers that were hand-drawn on the photo to help identify the players.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2vQtcBw5aPY/Xhu10jp9KcI/AAAAAAAAFnQ/q7ww0B13nUMRZKslxqFKsMnZJZO_wpShwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1916%2BCleveland%2BIndians.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2vQtcBw5aPY/Xhu10jp9KcI/AAAAAAAAFnQ/q7ww0B13nUMRZKslxqFKsMnZJZO_wpShwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1916%2BCleveland%2BIndians.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Cleveland’s experiment in 1916 lasted just a short while (as did a brief revival of the scheme by the 1923 St. Louis Cardinals), but the PCL’s uniform numbers of 1912 lasted the entire season. Prior to the 1913 campaign, however, the league dropped the sleeve-numbering rule. Some league officials wanted to keep the numbers, but most were against continuing the practice, complaining that the numerals were too small to be easily seen by fans in the stands and, as reported by the <i>Portland (OR) Oregonian</i>, “numbering the men did not help the sale of score cards, as was expected.”<br />
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One additional note: A few cards from the 1913 Zee-Nut set featured photos taken of PCL players in 1912, as they can be seen with numbers on their left sleeves. Here are a few examples of those 1913 cards:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-plfto1JyzaA/XimzpvkSUqI/AAAAAAAAFnc/D9M4tQpwFb02dq4ibyIkiR8y903BEMrpgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Oakland%2BHetling%2B1913.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-plfto1JyzaA/XimzpvkSUqI/AAAAAAAAFnc/D9M4tQpwFb02dq4ibyIkiR8y903BEMrpgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Oakland%2BHetling%2B1913.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GaPH3cL6Zdc/Ximz_lOWU-I/AAAAAAAAFnk/26zPndIO-4I8xRVBz70QjW4XtfF4O1cEQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Los%2BAngeles%2BHalla%2B1913.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GaPH3cL6Zdc/Ximz_lOWU-I/AAAAAAAAFnk/26zPndIO-4I8xRVBz70QjW4XtfF4O1cEQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Los%2BAngeles%2BHalla%2B1913.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Thanks to the Collins McCarthy company and their 1912 Zee-Nut and Home Run Kisses baseball cards, today we have a visual record of this important moment in the history of baseball uniforms.<br />
<h2>
List of 1912 Pacific Coast League Uniform Numbers</h2><div>
While there is no complete list of each PCL club’s uniform numbers from 1912, an article in the <i>Oregon Daily Journal</i> of March 27, 1912, did list the numbers initially assigned to members of the Portland Beavers. Combining this information with a few notes from other contemporary newspaper accounts, closely examining some team photos, and scouring numerous Zee-Nut and Home Run Kisses baseball cards from 1912 (as well as a few from 1913) allows us to create a partial list of 1912 PCL uniform numbers.</div><div><br /></div>
Additions to the list are most welcome. Just drop me a note by adding a comment below. (Note that some players on the same club may have been issued the same number.)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Los Angeles</span><br />
1 - Ivan Howard<br />
1? - Joe Berger<br />
1 or 2? - John Core<br />
4 - Heinie Heitmuller<br />
5 - Babe Driscoll<br />
8 - Hugh Smith<br />
9 - Walter Boles<br />
18 - John Halla<br />
20 - Charlie Chech<br />
22 - Jack Flater<br />
23 - Elmer Gober<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Oakland</span><br />
4 - Bud Sharpe<br />
6 - Al Cook <br />
7 - Gus Hetling<br />
13 - Harry Ables<br />
15? - Tyler Christian <br />
16 - Bill Malarkey<br />
21? - Cy Parkin<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Portland</span><br />
1 - Bill Rapps<br />
2 - Jack Gilligan<br />
3 - Dave Bancroft<br />
4 - Dan Howley<br />
5 - Bill Rodgers<br />
6 - Walt Doan<br />
7 - Bill Lindsay<br />
8 - Art Kruger<br />
9 - Chet Chadbourne<br />
10 - William Temple<br />
11 - Spec Harkness<br />
12 - Ben Henderson<br />
14 - Fred Lamlein<br />
15 - Ward McDowell<br />
16 - Heinie Steiger<br />
17 - Mickey LaLonge<br />
18 - Elmer Koestner<br />
18 - Leo Girot<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Sacramento</span><br />
8? - Al Hiester<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">San Francisco</span><br />
1 - Jesse Baker<br />
1 - Willard Meikle<br />
2 and 7 - Claude Berry<br />
2 - Harry McArdle<br />
4 - Chick Hartley<br />
7 - Walter Schmidt<br />
14 - Otto McIvor<br />
17 - Kid Mohler<br />
18? - Watt Powell<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">Vernon</span><br />
1 - Walter Carlisle<br />
2 - John Kane<br />
4 - Ham Patterson<br />
6 - George Stinson<br />
7 - Franz Hosp<br />
7? - John Raleigh<br />
8 - Lou Litschi<br />
11 - Wallace Hogan<br />
12 - Drummond Brown<br />
19 - Dolly Gray<br />
22 - Sam Agnew<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-37273048646704778892019-12-16T09:13:00.003-05:002019-12-16T13:14:54.873-05:00Elizabeth Taylor Goes to the Ball Game<br />
I love watching baseball and I love watching Elizabeth Taylor. But how often does one get the chance to combine the two pastimes? Alas, not often.<br />
<br />
I’ve long been aware of a couple of instances in which Liz and baseball have crossed paths. The first occurred on August 1, 1949, when a 17-year-old Liz participated in a celebrity ball game at Gilmore Field in Hollywood, California. In this case the game was softball, not baseball, and Liz didn’t actually play, but let’s not quibble over minutia. Liz was one of a dozen “bat girls” that cheered on Frank Sinatra’s “Swooners” and Andy Russell’s “Sprouts” in a benefit contest for the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce’s youth welfare fund. Players included stars such as Nat “King” Cole, Peter Lawford, Jerry Lewis, Dean Martin, Robert Mitchum, Mickey Rooney, Phil Silvers, and Mel Torme. Other bat girls included Ava Gardner, Virginia Mayo, and Jane Russell.<br />
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Here are a couple of photos of Liz at the 1949 game, the latter one with “Swooners” captain Frank Sinatra:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--mA_2nJQxGc/XfasenO63AI/AAAAAAAAFis/lmnFANENXLYQFoe833pLglEJw9vHsJfeQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/softball-1.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--mA_2nJQxGc/XfasenO63AI/AAAAAAAAFis/lmnFANENXLYQFoe833pLglEJw9vHsJfeQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/softball-1.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gkxVd2hzNvE/Xfase_qZZ5I/AAAAAAAAFiw/SaZaMiLQ1qQ1M5MgEQZGoyVWKaey1CCcwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/softball-2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gkxVd2hzNvE/Xfase_qZZ5I/AAAAAAAAFiw/SaZaMiLQ1qQ1M5MgEQZGoyVWKaey1CCcwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/softball-2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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A few months later, on December 21, 1949, Taylor and Pirates slugger Ralph Kiner went on a well-publicized date, attending the premiere of “Twelve O’Clock High” at Grauman’s Chinese Theater. Afterwards, the couple drove to a star-studded supper party honoring the movie’s star, Gregory Peck, at Romanoff’s Restaurant in Beverly Hills. And that was that. The two stars never saw each other again. Thankfully for posterity’s sake, the paparazzi managed to snap a few pictures of Liz and Ralph that evening:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gjdPRsQvqIo/Xfas_6cckUI/AAAAAAAAFjA/BKhKs4RRhKgHTCURibObIvzX88umJRA5gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/kiner-1.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gjdPRsQvqIo/Xfas_6cckUI/AAAAAAAAFjA/BKhKs4RRhKgHTCURibObIvzX88umJRA5gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/kiner-1.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5QUU-tNzS9E/Xfas4hlKSII/AAAAAAAAFi8/7sFLjzOqQDEeAe1tkSa40mOELFGfc6IIgCEwYBhgL/s1600/kiner-2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5QUU-tNzS9E/Xfas4hlKSII/AAAAAAAAFi8/7sFLjzOqQDEeAe1tkSa40mOELFGfc6IIgCEwYBhgL/s320/kiner-2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
I thought these were the only notable instances in which Liz and baseball crossed paths, but thanks to a “head’s up” from my friend <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkArmour04" target="_blank">Mark Armour</a>, it turns out that there’s another Liz-baseball connection. About 17 minutes into the forgettable (except for Liz, of course) 1952 movie “Love Is Better Than Ever,” Jud Parker (played by Larry Parks) takes Stacie Macaboy (played by Taylor) on a date to the Polo Grounds in New York. If you have a spare 80 minutes, you can <a href="https://archive.org/details/LoveIsBetterThanEver" target="_blank">watch the movie at archive.org</a>.<br />
<br />
After taking a cab to the ball park, we see a brief 10-second clip of real, in-game footage. More about that segment in a moment.<br />
<br />
We also see footage of a batter awaiting a pitch. It is clearly staged for the film, most likely shot at Los Angeles’s Wrigley Field, for many years the “go-to” location for movie studios needing baseball shots.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LYepOlQxsp8/Xfa0AatoR1I/AAAAAAAAFjc/HiUo5DFgrTMZB4ddz23Kj5XH7p2Pw2HmwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/staged-at-bat.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LYepOlQxsp8/Xfa0AatoR1I/AAAAAAAAFjc/HiUo5DFgrTMZB4ddz23Kj5XH7p2Pw2HmwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/staged-at-bat.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
But for most of the baseball-related scene, we see Liz and Larry talking in the stands. This includes an sequence in which Jud (and a boy in the stands) explain the infield fly rule to Stacie. Alas (and I don’t think the script writers did this intentionally) they get the much of the rule wrong. Again, these shots were not taken at the Polo Grounds, but more likely in the grandstand at Wrigley Field.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UZi8cWBawQ/Xfa0KqHEMxI/AAAAAAAAFjg/RyleaQL_cM8CnJng2nttwf27DxhFAcrTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/in-the-stands.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UZi8cWBawQ/Xfa0KqHEMxI/AAAAAAAAFjg/RyleaQL_cM8CnJng2nttwf27DxhFAcrTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/in-the-stands.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Here’s the approximately two-minute clip:<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxaOWKBMnFJgdPaY8w3ZifpRyJQB6T9_d7QnjrC8HnI1nC5Nhk5J2qJd3SSyGvSSmyp-kIJwypuKZ5WR3vBUg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
<br />
Tearing myself away from wondering about Liz, I got to wondering about the real, in-game baseball footage. What could I find out about it? Was it really shot at the Polo Grounds? What’s the date, which clubs are playing, and who are the individuals seen? Let’s dive in.<br />
<br />
<h3>
The Ballpark</h3>
<br />
While we don’t have the luxury of a long-range shot to help us identify the ballpark, it is quite obviously the Polo Grounds. Here’s a screen shot from the film (at top) and a photo of the celebration at home plate following Bobby Thomson’s famed home run at the Polo Grounds on October 3, 1951 (below). Note the similarities of the wall and the fencing atop the wall in the backgrounds of both images. (By the way, pardon the low quality of the screen shots throughout this post. It’s the best I could do with the archive.org version of the film.)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibR0t3USj-w/Xfa1QNj3DLI/AAAAAAAAFjw/E59pEgmqsf4i2S79SfOjwi_HDo8jvFz-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pitcher-delivering.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibR0t3USj-w/Xfa1QNj3DLI/AAAAAAAAFjw/E59pEgmqsf4i2S79SfOjwi_HDo8jvFz-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/pitcher-delivering.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBeTrBJ-Btw/Xfa1NJSSkgI/AAAAAAAAFjs/Yuf7SkYMslc-1qxX338VOihrt3cVQpWnQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Oct%2B3%2B1951%2BThomson%2Bgame.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBeTrBJ-Btw/Xfa1NJSSkgI/AAAAAAAAFjs/Yuf7SkYMslc-1qxX338VOihrt3cVQpWnQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Oct%2B3%2B1951%2BThomson%2Bgame.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Additionally, the left field corner seen in the footage matches perfectly with the infamously short porch and high wall at the Polo Grounds. Compare this screen shot from the movie (at top) with another photo from the playoff game of October 3, 1951 (below).<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s9oZjcTLVzQ/Xfa1pLNo-qI/AAAAAAAAFj8/R4NWjIFmUwgeu-kzV2jmBZSz6mQhMboLQCEwYBhgL/s1600/left-field-corner.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s9oZjcTLVzQ/Xfa1pLNo-qI/AAAAAAAAFj8/R4NWjIFmUwgeu-kzV2jmBZSz6mQhMboLQCEwYBhgL/s320/left-field-corner.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1QxcwvT7--4/Xfa1pBGCL3I/AAAAAAAAFj4/u_om2JEeRPQw2PPimaKM8YTSZ33t_rlCACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Oct%2B3%2B1951%2BThomson%2Bgame%2B-%2B2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1QxcwvT7--4/Xfa1pBGCL3I/AAAAAAAAFj4/u_om2JEeRPQw2PPimaKM8YTSZ33t_rlCACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Oct%2B3%2B1951%2BThomson%2Bgame%2B-%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<h3>
A List of Clues</h3>
<br />
Now that we know where the footage was taken, let’s assess what other clues we have.<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Contemporary newspaper research shows that the movie was released in
February of 1952, thus the action we see must have taken place in 1951
or earlier. However, the general quality of the real, in-game footage
suggests it was not shot before the early 1940s.</li>
<li>It is a day game. The batter is wearing home whites and thus is a member of the Giants, while the visiting team (in road gray uniforms) is in the field. Other than home whites and road grays, the uniforms for both clubs are similar in that both feature all dark caps and apparently solid-colored stockings.</li>
<li>Decorative bunting is hanging on the third baseline grandstand walls.</li>
<li>The pitcher is right handed and it appears he is wearing a double-digit uniform number that ends with a “6.”</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibR0t3USj-w/Xfa1QNj3DLI/AAAAAAAAFjw/E59pEgmqsf4i2S79SfOjwi_HDo8jvFz-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pitcher-delivering.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibR0t3USj-w/Xfa1QNj3DLI/AAAAAAAAFjw/E59pEgmqsf4i2S79SfOjwi_HDo8jvFz-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/pitcher-delivering.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<ul>
<li>The left fielder is right handed and wears uniform #8.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s9oZjcTLVzQ/Xfa1pLNo-qI/AAAAAAAAFj8/R4NWjIFmUwgeu-kzV2jmBZSz6mQhMboLQCEwYBhgL/s1600/left-field-corner.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-s9oZjcTLVzQ/Xfa1pLNo-qI/AAAAAAAAFj8/R4NWjIFmUwgeu-kzV2jmBZSz6mQhMboLQCEwYBhgL/s320/left-field-corner.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<ul>
<li>The batter is right-handed.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibR0t3USj-w/Xfa1QNj3DLI/AAAAAAAAFjw/E59pEgmqsf4i2S79SfOjwi_HDo8jvFz-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/pitcher-delivering.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ibR0t3USj-w/Xfa1QNj3DLI/AAAAAAAAFjw/E59pEgmqsf4i2S79SfOjwi_HDo8jvFz-QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/pitcher-delivering.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<ul>
<li>After the batter hits what appears to be a single to left field, the left fielder throws the ball back in to the infield and we can see no base runner on third base. (The member of the Giants seen behind third base is most certainly the coach.)</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gBrWVpBjfIk/Xfa22a_G21I/AAAAAAAAFkI/KwwoiNR-PCEpTqiTKaeMqxsAcLX4jRdlQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ball-returned-to-infield.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gBrWVpBjfIk/Xfa22a_G21I/AAAAAAAAFkI/KwwoiNR-PCEpTqiTKaeMqxsAcLX4jRdlQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ball-returned-to-infield.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<h3>
Following the Clues</h3>
<br />
Now let’s see where these clues lead.<br />
<br />
For the years 1940 through 1951, only twice did the Polo Grounds host a contest against American Leaguers. In 1951, the Giants played the Yankees in the 1951 World Series. However, only Yogi Berra wore #8 with the Yankees and he did not play left field in any of that year’s World Series contests. And in 1942, the Polo Grounds was the site of the annual All-Star Game. But the American League left fielder that day was Boston’s Ted Williams, who wore #9, not #8. So we can now safely eliminate the footage as showing an interleague game.<br />
<br />
By perusing the <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/database.htm" target="_blank">uniform database at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum’s online exhibit “Dressed to the Nines,”</a> it becomes clear that in the dozen seasons between 1940 and 1951, there were only <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/uniforms.asp?league=NL&city=New+York&lowYear=1940&highYear=1951&sort=year&increment=12" target="_blank">three campaigns in which the Giants wore solid-colored stockings as part of their home uniform: 1949, 1950, and 1951</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETcE5qMu0wY/Xfa4GTsQHoI/AAAAAAAAFkc/87NNSLref0oDLGyGuBwet24L9PzN-mFuACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/nl_1950_newyork.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ETcE5qMu0wY/Xfa4GTsQHoI/AAAAAAAAFkc/87NNSLref0oDLGyGuBwet24L9PzN-mFuACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/nl_1950_newyork.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Another check of the uniform database eliminates the Cardinals (image at top) and Braves (image below) as potential opponents, because in each of these three seasons both of these clubs wore stockings with distinct white stripes, a characteristic not seen in the film clip.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDfsHfpR-tQ/Xfa4NCUCQ_I/AAAAAAAAFkg/F8_qad9s8TMCLdcNV27Cw4qUgdIKCUs3gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/nl_1950_boston.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nDfsHfpR-tQ/Xfa4NCUCQ_I/AAAAAAAAFkg/F8_qad9s8TMCLdcNV27Cw4qUgdIKCUs3gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/nl_1950_boston.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8B86iUvm-I/Xfa4RI0guUI/AAAAAAAAFkk/8ZimC02bylUaBLkgnZFnBQlRywLhc78aQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/nl_1950_stlouis.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z8B86iUvm-I/Xfa4RI0guUI/AAAAAAAAFkk/8ZimC02bylUaBLkgnZFnBQlRywLhc78aQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/nl_1950_stlouis.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
This leaves only five possible opponents for the Giants in the game: the Dodgers, Cubs, Reds, Phillies, or Pirates. Of these clubs, which had one (or more) players who wore uniform #8? The uniform number data available at <a href="http://baseball-reference.com/" target="_blank">baseball-reference.com </a>gives the following possibilities:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>1949: Brooklyn’s George Shuba; Chicago’s Smoky Burgess and Rube Walker; Philadelphia’s Dick Sisler; and Pittsburgh’s Monty Basgall and Clyde McCullough. But none of these men played left field in 1949.</li>
<li>1950: Brooklyn’s Cal Abrams and George Shuba; Chicago’s Rube Walker; Cincinnati’s Hobie Landrith; Philadelphia’s Dick Sisler; and Pittsburgh’s Clyde McCullough. Of these, only Abrams, Shuba, and Sisler played left field in 1950, but we can eliminate Abrams as a possibility, as he threw left-handed.</li>
<li>1951: Chicago’s Bruce Edwards and Rube Walker; Philadelphia’s Dick Sisler; and Pittsburgh’s Bill Howerton and Clyde McCullough. Of these, only Sisler and Howerton played left field in 1951.</li>
</ul>
To recap, we now have the following possibilities for the year and the left fielder:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>1950: Brooklyn’s George Shuba or Philadelphia’s Dick Sisler.</li>
<li>1951: Philadelphia’s Dick Sisler or Pittsburgh’s Bill Howerton.</li>
</ul>
Thanks to the invaluable resources available at <a href="http://retrosheet.org/">retrosheet.org</a>, we can further narrow down possible dates of the real-game footage.<br />
<br />
1950:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Brooklyn’s George Shuba played just one game in left field at the Polo Grounds: April 28.</li>
<li>Philadelphia’s Dick Sisler played 10 games in left field at the Polo Grounds: May 26, 27, 28 (doubleheader); August 18, 21; September 27 (doubleheader), September 28 (doubleheader).</li>
</ul>
1951:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Dick Sisler played 11 games in left field at the Polo Grounds: May 12, 13 (doubleheader); July 2, 3; August 11, 12 (doubleheader), 13; September 3 (doubleheader.)</li>
<li>Bill Howerton played left field in two games at the Polo Grounds: May 9, 10.</li>
</ul>
<br />
We’re now down to two dozen possible dates, but we can eliminate another three because they were played at night: April 28, 1950; July 2, 1951; and August 13, 1951.<br />
<br />
<h3>
The Exact Game</h3>
<br />
Now let’s turn our attention to the bunting seen hanging on the third baseline grandstand walls. These patriotic decorations at big league parks were reserved for special events and holidays, such as Opening Day, July 4th, Labor Day, the All-Star Game, and the World Series. We have already eliminated the latter pair of possibilities. Of the remaining 21 dates noted above, just one falls on such a special date: Labor Day, September 3, 1951.<br />
<br />
On that day, the Giants hosted the Phillies for a doubleheader at the Polo Grounds. The first game saw Phillies pitcher Robin Roberts toss a complete game, 6-3 victory over New York. In the second contest, Phillies rookie Niles Jordan went the distance against the Giants, taking a 3-1 loss in just his third big league contest. But while Roberts was right-handed, Jordan was a southpaw, so we can eliminate the second game of the twin-bill as a possibility.<br />
<br />
It appears that the only possible date for the game footage is the first game of the September 3, 1951, doubleheader. Recall that the pitcher in the clip wears a uniform number that ends with a “6.” This matches with our identification of Robin Roberts as the pitcher, as the future Hall of Famer wore uniform #36 throughout his career with the Phillies. Additionally, Roberts’ distinctive delivery, with a slight flip of his left foot as he strides toward home, matches what is seen in the footage. You can check out footage of Roberts’ pitching motion <a href="https://www.blogger.com/">here</a>. <br />
<br />
By the way, this particular Labor Day victory over the Giants must have meant a great deal to Roberts, as he kept a ball from the game. It was made <a href="https://www.huntauctions.com/live/imageviewer.cfm?auction_num=31&lot_num=296&lot_qual=&closed" target="_blank">available at auction in 2011</a>.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVGfh7ij-Rk/Xfa6vd70vlI/AAAAAAAAFk4/oLlMynvdfK4qMP8_ntobUOYRAtPvsOykwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/ball%2Bfrom%2Bgame.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vVGfh7ij-Rk/Xfa6vd70vlI/AAAAAAAAFk4/oLlMynvdfK4qMP8_ntobUOYRAtPvsOykwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/ball%2Bfrom%2Bgame.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<h3>
The Exact Play</h3>
<br />
Now that we know the exact game, that our pitcher is Robin Roperts, and the left fielder is Dick Sisler, let’s turn our attention to the final clues: The batter is right-handed, hits what appears to be a single to left field, and when Sisler throws the ball back in to the infield we can see no base runner on third base. A check of the <a href="https://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/1951/B09031NY11951.htm" target="_blank">play-by-play data of the game made available at Retrosheet</a>, this only occurred twice during the first game of the Labor Day doubleheader:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>In the 4th inning, when Willie Mays singled with one out;</li>
<li>In the 8th inning, when Eddie Stanky singled with one out.</li>
</ul>
But Eddie Stanky notoriously choked up and wiggled his bat while at the plate, something we do not see the batter doing. Here’s a photo of Stanky in his typical batting stance:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EImqOgt9y20/Xfa68r-V6SI/AAAAAAAAFk8/RB9vIsUQ6XocQvAZcV_uWN5zFb-mbqYvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Stanky-Eddie-NYG.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EImqOgt9y20/Xfa68r-V6SI/AAAAAAAAFk8/RB9vIsUQ6XocQvAZcV_uWN5zFb-mbqYvwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Stanky-Eddie-NYG.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
No. The batter in the film is not Stanky. It is none other than the great Willie Mays nearing the end of his rookie season.<br />
<br />
Looking over the box score of the game, the rest of the men seen in the 10-second clip can now be identified: catcher Andy Seminick, home plate umpire Babe Pinelli, shortstop Granny Hamner, and third baseman Eddie Pellagrini.<br />
<br />
And now that we know which ballgame Stacie Macaboy attended, I’d suggest we get back to the movie and pay a little more attention to Liz.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-47646671631210272362019-11-11T11:41:00.000-05:002019-11-24T12:09:42.607-05:00The Death of "Death to Flying Things"<br />
The Web is chock full of lists of the greatest (coolest, most unusual, favorite, etc.) nicknames in big league baseball history. Here are just a few such lists:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><a href="http://www.baseballroundtable.com/from-biscuit-pants-to-death-to-flying-things-mlb-nicknames-tell-a-story/" target="_blank">Baseball Roundtable</a></li>
<li><a href="https://bleacherreport.com/articles/855446-philadelphia-phillies-vanimal-and-the-20-coolest-nicknames-in-team-history" target="_blank">Bleacher Report</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.espn.com/page2/s/list/baseball/nicknames/010612.html" target="_blank">ESPN</a></li>
<li><a href="https://tht.fangraphs.com/the-nickname-game-all-nicknames-all-the-time/" target="_blank">Fangraphs</a></li>
<li><a href="https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/25762/hippo-vaughn-shoeless-joe-jackson-origins-17-classic-baseball-nicknames" target="_blank">Mentalfloss</a></li>
<li><a href="http://research.sabr.org/journals/analysis-of-baseball-nicknames" target="_blank">SABR</a></li>
</ul>
All of these lists (and lots of others) call out the eminently enjoyable nickname “Death to Flying Things.” I think we can all agree that it’s cool, fun, and unique. Well, except for the part about its being unique. Indeed, most sources today attach this nickname to not one, not two, but three big leaguers.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OF_cuSMrkXQ/XcmAoBKKaGI/AAAAAAAAFg4/yIUwSlG4YSUMvDj5deH_A0DoWCIqGStnwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chapman.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OF_cuSMrkXQ/XcmAoBKKaGI/AAAAAAAAFg4/yIUwSlG4YSUMvDj5deH_A0DoWCIqGStnwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/chapman.jpg" width="400" /></a> <br />
<b>Jack Chapman </b>— A baseball “lifer” who played the outfield from 1860 through 1876, he also managed in the big leagues for 11 seasons.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NyiiIdFhyV8/XcmAoB1DmmI/AAAAAAAAFg8/K_NW6crTxow4HZQnUSliT1SIdLDUW8lWwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Bobferguson10.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NyiiIdFhyV8/XcmAoB1DmmI/AAAAAAAAFg8/K_NW6crTxow4HZQnUSliT1SIdLDUW8lWwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Bobferguson10.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<b>Bob Ferguson </b>— An infielder and catcher whose on-field career lasted from 1865 through 1884, he is often credited with being the game’s first switch-hitter.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xTO14sdY8vw/XcmAoRPMJCI/AAAAAAAAFhA/6oYovV7V7G4ojs39feqe8dWSx9U5gYgPwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/fgutierrez.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xTO14sdY8vw/XcmAoRPMJCI/AAAAAAAAFhA/6oYovV7V7G4ojs39feqe8dWSx9U5gYgPwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/fgutierrez.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<b>Franklin Gutierrez </b>— A veteran of 14 years in the big leagues, he won a Gold Glove Award in 2010 as a center fielder.<br />
<br />
Gutierrez was certainly an exciting outfielder and talented with the glove. And I love that, soon after his trade to Seattle in 2009, Mariners broadcaster Dave Niehaus christened him with the “retro” nickname, both as a compliment to the Venezuelan’s abilities and a nod to the nickname’s prior attachment to Chapman and Ferguson.<br />
<br />
As for Chapman and Ferguson, the “Death to Flying Things” sobriquet makes sense, as well, for both players were known to be excellent fielders.<br />
<br />
For example, in a much-anticipated, well-attended, and exciting contest between the Mutuals of New York and the Atlantics of Brooklyn on August 17, 1868, Atlantics left fielder Chapman saved the day. As reported in the next day’s <i>Brooklyn Daily Eagle</i>:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-svsLgnishwQ/XcmBlx2bUEI/AAAAAAAAFhU/8i-I5RNA8CM9obiyHNlD7LOiwlqo0Z3fgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/chapman-catch.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-svsLgnishwQ/XcmBlx2bUEI/AAAAAAAAFhU/8i-I5RNA8CM9obiyHNlD7LOiwlqo0Z3fgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/chapman-catch.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Regarding Ferguson, time and again contemporary newspaper accounts sang his praises as a stellar third baseman:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>“Ferguson made a splendid catch of a line ball, and stopped the run-getting.” — <i>The Brooklyn Times-Union</i>, June 10, 1873</li>
<li>“Ferguson made a great running catch, and this was the only brilliant play of the game.” — <i>The Philadelphia Times</i>, May 18, 1883</li>
<li>“Ferguson made a brilliant catch of a hot liner and made a double play.” — <i>The Philadelphia Times</i>, September 23, 1883</li>
</ul>
But in researching the nickname, I simply cannot find any contemporary evidence that the sobriquet was used for either Chapman or Ferguson. The first reference of <i><b>any</b></i> player being dubbed “Death to Flying Things” is found in <a href="https://books.google.com/books?id=cClHAQAAMAAJ&pg=PA10#v=onepage&q=%22death%20to%20flying%20things%22&f=false" target="_blank">Alfred Spink’s “The National Game,”</a> a history of baseball published by <i>The Sporting News</i> in 1910. On page 10, Spink recounts how Chapman earned the nickname:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gatjtUClbZE/XcmB065vqPI/AAAAAAAAFhc/3V8GhsIMEpM22TS_SNhB-jI1M6Z3yfzlACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/The-National-Game-part.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gatjtUClbZE/XcmB065vqPI/AAAAAAAAFhc/3V8GhsIMEpM22TS_SNhB-jI1M6Z3yfzlACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/The-National-Game-part.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
After this mention, I don’t find another independent reference to the nickname until 1969, when the inaugural edition of “The Baseball Encyclopedia” included it in its entry for Ferguson ... but surprisingly not for that of Chapman. Here are those entries from the 10th edition of “The Baseball Encyclopedia”:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AddcrSUQ2Co/XcmB9NWfljI/AAAAAAAAFhk/uCrgHeIoY3sexD-lTSSpe01lB8GguUF9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/TBE-chapman.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AddcrSUQ2Co/XcmB9NWfljI/AAAAAAAAFhk/uCrgHeIoY3sexD-lTSSpe01lB8GguUF9QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/TBE-chapman.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DBuogE4rCig/XcmB9xIfW5I/AAAAAAAAFhs/BvUNUTcA3asogdcqmqIyZkGzVFOpkdc-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/TBE-ferguson.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DBuogE4rCig/XcmB9xIfW5I/AAAAAAAAFhs/BvUNUTcA3asogdcqmqIyZkGzVFOpkdc-wCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/TBE-ferguson.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
To add to the confusion, while the entire run of “The Baseball Encyclopedia” tags Ferguson with the nickname and Chapman without it, the exact opposite is the case for the full run of “Total Baseball”: Chapman is listed with the nickname and Ferguson is not. Here are those entries from the fourth edition of “Total Baseball”:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tWKzeTaCqgI/XcmCMaP03DI/AAAAAAAAFh0/1EJY5dg_Pig6WF5Kzv1xZ7_uTizKiy11QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/tb-chapman.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tWKzeTaCqgI/XcmCMaP03DI/AAAAAAAAFh0/1EJY5dg_Pig6WF5Kzv1xZ7_uTizKiy11QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/tb-chapman.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oTvnR_pyTXE/XcmCNa_XyoI/AAAAAAAAFh8/wQTMH8a3_o0PdFHHkENgVrcy5ONSiRIIgCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/tb_ferguson.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oTvnR_pyTXE/XcmCNa_XyoI/AAAAAAAAFh8/wQTMH8a3_o0PdFHHkENgVrcy5ONSiRIIgCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/tb_ferguson.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
(For what it’s worth, <a href="http://baseball-reference.com/">baseball-reference.com</a> gives the nickname to Chapman, Ferguson, and Gutierrez.)<br />
<br />
Note that in Spink’s “The National Game,” the statement about Chapman’s nickname comes just a few paragraphs below a note about Ferguson and under a heading calling out Ferguson as “THE FIRST GREAT CATCHER.” Here’s that full paragraph:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbVb_CpRwpQ/XcmCVgy5GAI/AAAAAAAAFiE/1RGLBSeO61sHNdYQTkR9ecWW1ESI-GZdACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/The-National-Game-full.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nbVb_CpRwpQ/XcmCVgy5GAI/AAAAAAAAFiE/1RGLBSeO61sHNdYQTkR9ecWW1ESI-GZdACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/The-National-Game-full.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Perhaps in prepping “The Baseball Encyclopedia,” a researcher found the nickname in Spink’s book and made two errors:<br />
<br />
1) mistakenly assuming the nickname to be accurate; and,<br />
2) mistakenly assuming the nickname belonged to “THE GREATEST CATCHER,” Bob Ferguson.<br />
<br />
Who knows?<br />
<br />
For now, all we can say for certain is that while the nickname is most certainly fun, there is no evidence that it was contemporaneously connected to either Ferguson or Chapman. Ironically, despite being based on the erroneous belief that the moniker first belonged to those two 19th century ballplayers, the nickname can only <i><b>truly </b></i>be linked to Franklin Gutierrez!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-13696820294187860092019-09-29T12:13:00.001-04:002021-06-07T15:36:14.647-04:00Tragedy and Comedy (and Beer) on the Diamond<br />
On September 13, 2019, @TheSkimmers shared this wonderful photograph on Twitter.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsOv55OkQd0/XX7bg5KquTI/AAAAAAAAFdE/l57_gTJNvZo92Oii6C9yStNmcIG2dCejwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/tragedy.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jsOv55OkQd0/XX7bg5KquTI/AAAAAAAAFdE/l57_gTJNvZo92Oii6C9yStNmcIG2dCejwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/tragedy.jpe" width="400" /></a><br />
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First of all, if you love vintage (and often overlooked) baseball pictures, you need to follow <a href="https://twitter.com/TheSkimmers" target="_blank">@TheSkimmers on Twitter</a>. Second, let’s see what can be learned about this particular image.<br />
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According to the caption on the photo mount, this picture was apparently taken on May 25th, sometime in the 1880s. A quick search of newspapers of the era turned up this note in the <i>Boston Globe</i> of May 25, 1886: “There will be a quaint game in New York today, when it is expected an enormous crowd will gather on the Polo Grounds to see the disciples of Thespia wrestle with the sphere for the benefit of Bartley Campbell.”<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T7IcFLK4M3s/XX7bOu-Gz_I/AAAAAAAAFc8/r3XsazpOkT4k5-qLI3lF1daABIrItTBoACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/bartley.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T7IcFLK4M3s/XX7bOu-Gz_I/AAAAAAAAFc8/r3XsazpOkT4k5-qLI3lF1daABIrItTBoACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/bartley.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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About a week earlier, celebrated American playwright Bartley Campbell, suffering from dementia, had been transferred from Bellevue Hospital to the Bloomingdale Insane Asylum. This exhibition baseball game was just one of a number of benefits that were organized in order to raise money for Campbell, his wife, and his two boys.<br />
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Poorly promoted and staged in uncomfortably cool and damp conditions, only around 500 patrons attended the contest. Still, the game raised $430.25 for the unfortunate Campbells.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aSgVJw07zHY/XZC-DcnMenI/AAAAAAAAFe0/tc1t5Z3mkMgNdic0rkm6H00z3fW7kzXTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/polo-grounds-harpers-weekly.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aSgVJw07zHY/XZC-DcnMenI/AAAAAAAAFe0/tc1t5Z3mkMgNdic0rkm6H00z3fW7kzXTQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/polo-grounds-harpers-weekly.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Illustration from <i>Harper's Weekly</i> of May 8, 1886, depicting Opening Day at the Polo Grounds, April 29, 1886, just one month before the benefit game for Bartley Campbell</span><br />
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Stage actors and others who made their living in the theater formed two competing nines: the Tragedians and the Comedians.<br />
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George Boniface Jr. pitched for the Comedy Nine, while Burr McIntosh, who the previous August made his theatrical debut in Bartley Campbell’s “Paquita,” did the catching. Comic star De Wolf Hopper, a well-known baseball fanatic and the man who popularized the poem “Casey at the Bat” in August of 1888, manned first base. The rest of the infield included famed comedian Nat C. Goodwin at second base, theater manager Robert Hilliard at third, and Francis Wilson at shortstop. The outfield featured Charles Bowser, James T. Powers, and Victor Harman.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0A8EBocN2g/XX7dXGXJQdI/AAAAAAAAFdU/CHpKDIHmBgsUlHq682k9QftgCMVC2pLLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/comedy%2B-%2Bboniface%2Bjr.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W0A8EBocN2g/XX7dXGXJQdI/AAAAAAAAFdU/CHpKDIHmBgsUlHq682k9QftgCMVC2pLLQCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/comedy%2B-%2Bboniface%2Bjr.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">George Boniface Jr.</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtMu21MMPu8/XX7dXJyc8LI/AAAAAAAAFdQ/RE39LblYT8AeJG7sWGVYMXHHGt4OQ5Z9gCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Comedy%2B-%2Bde%2Bwolf%2Bhopper%2B1902%2Bcaddock%2Bcard.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gtMu21MMPu8/XX7dXJyc8LI/AAAAAAAAFdQ/RE39LblYT8AeJG7sWGVYMXHHGt4OQ5Z9gCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Comedy%2B-%2Bde%2Bwolf%2Bhopper%2B1902%2Bcaddock%2Bcard.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">De Wolf Hopper</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iepKtZgxvGo/XX7dXIMujrI/AAAAAAAAFdY/Sga2ViM8lEobXvDCgQ7E7rkGq-8yTkTCACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/nat-goodwin.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iepKtZgxvGo/XX7dXIMujrI/AAAAAAAAFdY/Sga2ViM8lEobXvDCgQ7E7rkGq-8yTkTCACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/nat-goodwin.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Nat Goodwin</span><br />
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Will Rising took the mound for the Tragedy Nine and theater manager G.W. Sammis handled the role of catcher. Randolph Murray, best known as the then-husband of well-known singer and dancer Pauline Markham played first base. Joseph Frankau (second base), R.E. Graham (third base), and Edwin Cleary (shortstop) filled out the infield. Italian actor Alexander Salvini (who had no idea what he was doing) played left field, H.S Hilliard manned center, and Paul Arthur stationed himself in right.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1RkCWL46Y8U/XX7gODyGbHI/AAAAAAAAFd0/SgK1WoVpzw0eWbyyEA1BG3FVDsdlv4KQwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/rising.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1RkCWL46Y8U/XX7gODyGbHI/AAAAAAAAFd0/SgK1WoVpzw0eWbyyEA1BG3FVDsdlv4KQwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/rising.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Will Rising</span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ljZVg4-sOA/XX7gJj--J5I/AAAAAAAAFds/Q_-EthpXy0YQgGV1W_IR2R-m4TJXPn3WwCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/Tragedy%2B-%2BFrankau.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--ljZVg4-sOA/XX7gJj--J5I/AAAAAAAAFds/Q_-EthpXy0YQgGV1W_IR2R-m4TJXPn3WwCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/Tragedy%2B-%2BFrankau.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Joseph Frankau </span><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jz8GMqwDiEA/XX7gL0UR2rI/AAAAAAAAFdw/7ffiIeqU9ekG3kdIlHb6d4kqAR2YC2kbACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/tragedy%2B-%2BSalvini%2Bas%2Bd%2527Artagnan.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jz8GMqwDiEA/XX7gL0UR2rI/AAAAAAAAFdw/7ffiIeqU9ekG3kdIlHb6d4kqAR2YC2kbACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/tragedy%2B-%2BSalvini%2Bas%2Bd%2527Artagnan.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Alexander Salvini</span><br />
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Many of the contestants donned theatrical costumes. For example, Robert Hilliard dressed as Romeo, Joseph Frankau as King Lear, and Alexander Salvini as Ingomar the Barbarian.<br />
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A few special rules were adopted for the game. Five innings, not nine, would decide the contest, and no team was allowed to score more than nine runs in an inning. Additionally, two (some sources say three) kegs of beer (humorously labeled “Arnica”) were stationed next to third base, with players reaching the base being rewarded with the refreshment.<br />
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Incidentally, this humorously innovative idea to encourage base runners to try for third base was not new. As far as I am able to determine, the gimmick was first introduced in a baseball game played on July 4th, 1882, in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. A notice about the game was published in the <i>Philadelphia Times</i> on July 6th, 1882:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2wGpyvuQ9m0/XZC7weUyroI/AAAAAAAAFes/T-9eQcNSAr8NM3lSJ4FVtlmRNmmLHMcMwCEwYBhgL/s1600/1882-July-6-Phi-Times.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2wGpyvuQ9m0/XZC7weUyroI/AAAAAAAAFes/T-9eQcNSAr8NM3lSJ4FVtlmRNmmLHMcMwCEwYBhgL/s320/1882-July-6-Phi-Times.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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The keg-of-beer-at-third-base gimmick was popular throughout the late nineteenth century. Sometimes the kegs even showed up at first and/or second base, as well. An illustration in the May 1896 issue of <i>Judge</i>, shows the practice in full swing (or, perhaps more accurately, full swig):<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuGr1MXGn9E/XZDKZD1z0oI/AAAAAAAAFfA/LLiwZteMkyUdSe7gX4s9nQkln0D0K-u6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/judge-1896.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="946" data-original-width="1206" height="251" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CuGr1MXGn9E/XZDKZD1z0oI/AAAAAAAAFfA/LLiwZteMkyUdSe7gX4s9nQkln0D0K-u6QCNcBGAsYHQ/s320/judge-1896.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Later, well into the 20th century, the concept was twisted a bit, generally being seen in games of softball. Instead of rewarding a player with a beer for making it to third base (and/or second and first), the base runner was <u>required</u> to drink a beer before <u>leaving</u> the base. This form of the game is still played today.<br />
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But getting back to the Comedy vs. Tragedy contest of May 25, 1886 ...<br />
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From the moment the game began, chaos ensued on the field. Other than just a few of the participants, most had limited ability in playing baseball, and some had no clue at all. And with confusion and inebriation being the order of the day, umpire Gus Heckler and official scorer John Mackay had their work cut out for them. Sources differ on the final score (20-9, 20-10, 19-7), but all credited the Comedians with the victory.<br />
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A few weeks later, on June 11, another benefit baseball game was staged by actors for Bartley Campbell. The exhibition contest took place at the home grounds of the Philadelphia Phillies and this time some 1,000 spectators raised over $500. While these games and various other fundraisers no doubt helped the Campbells, the playwright never recovered from his illness and passed away in the summer of 1888.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-56183667620354071892019-08-26T21:47:00.001-04:002019-08-26T21:47:24.482-04:00Walk-Off Firsts<br />
Today, most historians agree that pitcher Dennis Eckersley coined the now-popular term “walk-off,” referring to game-ending home runs as “walk-off pieces.” The idea was that once the home run was hit, there was nothing left for the pitcher to do, so he would simply walk off the mound.<br />
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It’s only appropriate that term be associated with “Eck,” because he surrendered one of the most famous “walk-off pieces” in baseball history: Kirk Gibson’s game-ending, two-run homer in Game One of the 1988 World Series.<br />
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But in the early days of baseball, there was no such thing as a “walk-off” hit. And by “no such thing,” I don’t mean that game-ending hits weren’t called “walk-offs.” I mean that there were no game-ending hits, regardless of what you called them. That’s because the rules of baseball simply did not allow for the possibility. Here’s the relevant rule from 1879:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The game shall consist of nine innings to each side, but should the score then be a tie, play shall be continued until a majority of runs for one side, upon an equal number of innings, shall be declared, when the game shall end. All innings shall be concluded when the third hand is put out.</blockquote>
In other words, no matter which club was ahead in the bottom of the ninth (or the bottom of an extra inning), the inning was not over until all three outs were made. For example, if the team batting second was ahead going into the bottom of the ninth, that half inning would be played, even though the outcome was already determined. Furthermore, if the team batting second was behind going into the bottom of the ninth, and then scored enough runs to gain the lead, that half inning still continued until the third out was made ... again, even though the outcome was already determined.<br />
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It wasn’t until 1880 that the rules were changed to essentially the modern-day situation, allowing the game to end once the outcome was assured even if the third out had yet to be made. Here’s the exact wording of that new rule:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
A Game shall consist of nine innings to each contesting nine, except that: (1) If the side first at bat scores less runs in nine innings than the other side has scored in eight inning, the game shall the terminate. (2) If the side last at bat in the ninth innings scores the winning run before the third man is out, the game shall then terminate. (3) If the score be a tie at the end of nine innings to each side, play shall only be continued until the side first at bat shall have scored one or more runs than the other side, in an equal number of innings; or until the other side shall score one more run than the side first at bat.</blockquote>
In short, it wasn’t until 1880 that a walk-off hit could occur under the rules of the game. This raises the question ...<br />
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<h3>
When was the first walk-off hit in major league history?</h3>
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The answer is: Opening Day of 1880. Yes, you read that correctly. On the very first day that a walk-off hit <i>could </i>occur, it <i>did </i>occur.<br />
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On May 1, 1880, Cincinnati hosted Chicago on the first day of the National League season. While the Reds were the home team, they batted first. That is because the rule at the time called for the winner of a pre-game coin toss to earn the choice of whether to bat first or second. In this case, the Reds most likely won the toss and opted to bat first. This seems counterintuitive from the modern-day point of view, but as these early games were generally played with just one ball, there was a real advantage to batting first and getting a crack at that brand new baseball.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YH08h2FcUjY/XWSGh_wG_2I/AAAAAAAAFco/w_U4hG5DggYNdzdQXpl1t6NYZDu8CfODACLcBGAs/s1600/joe-quest.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YH08h2FcUjY/XWSGh_wG_2I/AAAAAAAAFco/w_U4hG5DggYNdzdQXpl1t6NYZDu8CfODACLcBGAs/s320/joe-quest.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Joe Quest</span><br />
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Just about two-and-a-half hours after that fateful coin toss, the visiting Chicagoans found themselves trailing Cincinnati, 3-2, as they came to bat in the bottom of the ninth. Then Chicago rallied and, with one out, had Larry Corcoran on third and Tom Burns on second. As reported in the <i>Cincinnati Enquirer</i> the next day:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
[Joe] Quest dropped a little fly over [Cincinnati second baseman Pop] Smith’s head safe for a base and Corcoran scored the trying [sic] run and Burns kept bowling right along for victory. [Cincinnati right fielder Jack] Manning had plenty of time to head him off, but after holding the ball and hesitating, he threw it six feet over [Cincinnati catcher John] Clapp’s head, and the game was lost. According to the new League Rules the game ended with Burns’ run, though but one of the Chicagos was out.</blockquote>
Making his major league debut with the National League’s Cleveland club that very same day was a 21-year-old infielder named Fred Dunlap. Just over two months later, Dunlap became the answer to the following trivia question:<br />
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<h3>
Who hit the first walk-off home run in major league history?</h3>
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On July 10, 1880, Cleveland played host to the same Chicago club that had earlier recorded the first big league walk-off hit. Entering the contest, Chicago was riding an amazing 20-game winning streak. In fact, with a win and a tie prior to that streak, Chicago had fashioned a run of 22 straight games without a loss.<br />
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As noted in the <i>Chicago Tribune</i> on July 11, “it was a pitcher’s game.” Cleveland’s Jim McCormick and Chicago’s Fred Goldsmith matched goose eggs, for eight straight innings, and after Chicago failed to score in the top of the ninth, Cleveland came to bat. “[Jack Glasscock] got [to] first on a hit in the ninth, and [Fred] Dunlap, the next striker, drove a ball down in the lower corner of the grounds, bringing in Glasscock and making a home run himself.”<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_6GMRZPPY9g/XWSHGMJufdI/AAAAAAAAFcw/qcZYrfJD7hEVIhQ_BXhr07lhUwYGN98rgCLcBGAs/s1600/fred-dunlap.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_6GMRZPPY9g/XWSHGMJufdI/AAAAAAAAFcw/qcZYrfJD7hEVIhQ_BXhr07lhUwYGN98rgCLcBGAs/s320/fred-dunlap.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Fred Dunlap</span><br />
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Under today’s rules, Dunlap’s hit would have only counted as a triple, because it was not an over-the-fence home run and thus the game would have ended the moment Glasscock’s winning run scored. But at the time, the play was allowed to continue, Dunlap was credited with a homer, Cleveland earned a 2-0 victory, Chicago’s streak came to a halt, and the first walk-off home run entered baseball’s record books.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-39466614961833578092019-06-28T01:19:00.000-04:002019-06-28T10:09:35.165-04:00The Black Sox Jack World Series<br />
This year marks the centennial of what is often referred to as the “Black Sox World Series.” But before it earned that infamous nickname it was more accurately called the “Black <i>Jack </i>World Series.” Here’s why ...<br />
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In 1919, the American Chicle Company, makers of Adams Pure Chewing Gum, embraced the World Series as a way to market their product. The company’s vice president, John F. Bresnahan, devised a scheme knowing that all eyes would be on the much-ballyhooed World Championship between the Chicago White Sox and Cincinnati Reds. Just days before the series began, Bresnahan launched an advertising blitz in newspapers across the country, promoting Black Jack, the company’s licorice-flavored gum. As later described in the October 18, 1919, issue of <i>The Fourth Estate</i>, a weekly magazine devoted to newspaper advertising:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The idea of hooking up Black Jack with a big news event seemed too good to be limited to one city, so Mr. Bresnahan straightway arranged for a series of Black Jack ads in ninety newspapers. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The copy built on the theme of “nerves” in baseball, and o chewing gum for nerves. The happy combination was treated sympathetically by artists, and mats were rushed to the newspapers. ... “Total figures are not available but it is likely that millions of extra papers were sold on game days during the series. Every paper carried a sympathetic baseball and gum message to men, and men are our greatest customers. The copy appeal, the product and the news all synchronized perfectly.”</blockquote>
Here are the ads which ran every day from October 1 (the first day of the World Series) through October 10 (the day after the final game of the World Series):<br />
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<h3>
<i>Indianapolis Star</i>, October 1, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ten1aosz1ys/XRWefTws4-I/AAAAAAAAFb4/aPylcOzKKs8H_ZoFNcJ7_WlJWsKNHTQzgCLcBGAs/s1600/Indianap-Star-Oct-1-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Ten1aosz1ys/XRWefTws4-I/AAAAAAAAFb4/aPylcOzKKs8H_ZoFNcJ7_WlJWsKNHTQzgCLcBGAs/s1600/Indianap-Star-Oct-1-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>Pittsburgh Press</i>, October 2, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5UUNQhneBMc/XRWe85wbnKI/AAAAAAAAFcE/DI6F1tdVlBUYBze6grcbi17Dxd7-idg7gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Pittsburgh-Press-Oct-2-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5UUNQhneBMc/XRWe85wbnKI/AAAAAAAAFcE/DI6F1tdVlBUYBze6grcbi17Dxd7-idg7gCEwYBhgL/s1600/Pittsburgh-Press-Oct-2-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>Detroit Free Press</i>, October 3, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiEsUR89q_g/XRWYFB-DE2I/AAAAAAAAFa8/d4st9z4MgBMNaUhCdx6kDA1z3P6v0XQtACLcBGAs/s1600/Det-Free-Press-Oct-3-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YiEsUR89q_g/XRWYFB-DE2I/AAAAAAAAFa8/d4st9z4MgBMNaUhCdx6kDA1z3P6v0XQtACLcBGAs/s1600/Det-Free-Press-Oct-3-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>New York Evening World</i>, October 4, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGeh4Zl79m0/XRWYJa8gQgI/AAAAAAAAFbA/PvuXqqGQm3w3ZPPU5lGDLmukv8ExXoEVACLcBGAs/s1600/NY-Evening-World-Oct-4-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mGeh4Zl79m0/XRWYJa8gQgI/AAAAAAAAFbA/PvuXqqGQm3w3ZPPU5lGDLmukv8ExXoEVACLcBGAs/s1600/NY-Evening-World-Oct-4-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>Los Angeles Times</i>, October 5, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QGaoyyqJXY/XRWYQ2uXgKI/AAAAAAAAFbE/D27Cxvn0G9QmKgezp-TXEgopxG_Y-42QACLcBGAs/s1600/LA-Times-Oct-5-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_QGaoyyqJXY/XRWYQ2uXgKI/AAAAAAAAFbE/D27Cxvn0G9QmKgezp-TXEgopxG_Y-42QACLcBGAs/s1600/LA-Times-Oct-5-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>Minneapolis Star-Tribune</i>, October 6, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wQGB03JqruA/XRWYWyh6OKI/AAAAAAAAFbM/FnBBSjfmGiYhTZtQyyhBGZ__JmpIiqYoQCLcBGAs/s1600/Minn-Star-Trib-Oct-6-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wQGB03JqruA/XRWYWyh6OKI/AAAAAAAAFbM/FnBBSjfmGiYhTZtQyyhBGZ__JmpIiqYoQCLcBGAs/s1600/Minn-Star-Trib-Oct-6-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>St. Louis Post-Dispatch</i>, October 7, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VaxHSzOjSf8/XRWYb6WCClI/AAAAAAAAFbQ/ZQCwonxLbQkvQKsGEtAWL8sTGkSDZaHRwCLcBGAs/s1600/Post-Dispatch-Oct-7-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VaxHSzOjSf8/XRWYb6WCClI/AAAAAAAAFbQ/ZQCwonxLbQkvQKsGEtAWL8sTGkSDZaHRwCLcBGAs/s1600/Post-Dispatch-Oct-7-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>Chicago Tribune</i>, October 8, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVhtMxheGdw/XRWYhhrcjVI/AAAAAAAAFbU/RhUn-Dyn_HEecjQUOBSlUwbJetyPEK61ACLcBGAs/s1600/Chicago-Tribune-Oct-8-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uVhtMxheGdw/XRWYhhrcjVI/AAAAAAAAFbU/RhUn-Dyn_HEecjQUOBSlUwbJetyPEK61ACLcBGAs/s1600/Chicago-Tribune-Oct-8-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>Philadelphia Inquirer</i>, October 9, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2VmxXFpZsZ4/XRWYoHxK0vI/AAAAAAAAFbg/ILr_EtXwZCAUNob4O9zbRqgAYLioCO1ZQCLcBGAs/s1600/Phi-Inquirer-Oct-9-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2VmxXFpZsZ4/XRWYoHxK0vI/AAAAAAAAFbg/ILr_EtXwZCAUNob4O9zbRqgAYLioCO1ZQCLcBGAs/s1600/Phi-Inquirer-Oct-9-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
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<h3>
<i>Des Moines Tribune</i>, October 10, 1919:</h3>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WliMJJV4rfg/XRWYuYhuUMI/AAAAAAAAFbk/cy9fJiprv_gNXd2zUCIXLA6azChL6VGnwCLcBGAs/s1600/Des-Moines-Trib-Oct-10-1919.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WliMJJV4rfg/XRWYuYhuUMI/AAAAAAAAFbk/cy9fJiprv_gNXd2zUCIXLA6azChL6VGnwCLcBGAs/s1600/Des-Moines-Trib-Oct-10-1919.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
But American Chicle’s real genius idea came by way of their sales manager, Paul S. Kantner. <br />
<br />
With the World Series fast approaching, the Houston Post was looking to find a way to ensure that they would be the first news source to relay the result of each World Series contest. The standard method of getting such news to the public was to rely on the consumer to actively seek out this information. The interested baseball fan might head to a corner to buy a newspaper or stand in front of a remote scoreboard and “virtually” watch the game. What if the newspaper could flip this model on its head and have the news travel to the customer, rather than the other way around?<br />
<br />
As reported in the <i>Houston Post </i>on the day of Game One:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
... The <i>Post</i>, amply aided and abetted by the American Chicle Company—makers of Yucatan and Black Jack—a few days ago sought some new method of getting the news over to all the people in the briefest possible time. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The Post was looking for speed; the Adams people for something else. Both seem to have found what they want—and the people, especially the baseball fans, are the richer therefor. </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
... “I have it,” said Kantner, who had found himself in a discussion outside his particular line. “We’re going to put on a campaign here to introduce Yucatan and Black Jack.”</blockquote>
Kantner’s idea was to drop Adams chewing gum from an airplane circling high above the city, the particular kind of gum signifying the winning club. If Yucatan gum rained down on Houston, it meant the White Sox won. A deluge of Black Jack relayed that the Reds were victors. Here’s the description from the <i>Post</i>:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MzPoDxt-OpE/XRWXcIA9qnI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/189ox5jjpsUS2p_4gDac7xzMlC3p0Mm6QCLcBGAs/s1600/Houston-Post-Oct-1-1919-a.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MzPoDxt-OpE/XRWXcIA9qnI/AAAAAAAAFaQ/189ox5jjpsUS2p_4gDac7xzMlC3p0Mm6QCLcBGAs/s1600/Houston-Post-Oct-1-1919-a.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GRRBZUTsmlA/XRWXhHYbdmI/AAAAAAAAFaU/4KHd8YCyE8Meyi4PUDAmkkNwmRiSLa-QwCLcBGAs/s1600/Houston-Post-Oct-1-1919-b.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GRRBZUTsmlA/XRWXhHYbdmI/AAAAAAAAFaU/4KHd8YCyE8Meyi4PUDAmkkNwmRiSLa-QwCLcBGAs/s1600/Houston-Post-Oct-1-1919-b.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-77994916828661584252019-03-25T07:53:00.000-04:002019-03-25T07:53:48.237-04:00Some Baseball Cards and the Photographs Upon Which They Were Based<br />
Many baseball cards of the first half of the 20th century featured illustrations of ballplayers that were based upon actual photographs. Here are just a few.<br />
<h2>
White Border (T206) Hal Chase (Holding Trophy)</h2>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GgCDo8mW54g/XJgn6-xjwlI/AAAAAAAAFY8/eIwe4aiMI_Ah0_jm1spkD4xrZcN_drezQCLcBGAs/s1600/chase.gif"><img border="0" data-original-height="719" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GgCDo8mW54g/XJgn6-xjwlI/AAAAAAAAFY8/eIwe4aiMI_Ah0_jm1spkD4xrZcN_drezQCLcBGAs/s320/chase.gif" width="267" /></a><br />
<br />
This card of Hal Chase was based upon an image shot by legendary baseball photographer Charles Conlon. The picture of the talented first baseman was captured at New York’s Hilltop Park on May 3, 1909. For more about this Chase card (pun intended) and the silver “loving cup” he is holding, refer to <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2009/11/cut-to-chase.html" target="_blank">my blog posting of November 2009</a>.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Turkey Red (T3) Jordan and Herzog</h2>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bL-3webuOog/XJgoG0X6myI/AAAAAAAAFZA/OGaS79lKdZUa60x-uOO-SdfZlPY8NiMdQCLcBGAs/s1600/jordan.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bL-3webuOog/XJgoG0X6myI/AAAAAAAAFZA/OGaS79lKdZUa60x-uOO-SdfZlPY8NiMdQCLcBGAs/s320/jordan.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
This card issued in 1910 shows Brooklyn’s Tim Jordan and Giants base runner Buck Herzog in a play at first base. The card’s beautiful artwork was based upon a photograph of the two ballplayers taken at New York’s Polo Grounds in 1908.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Cracker Jack (E145) Butch Schmidt</h2>
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-4b9FqpsrQ/XJgoJL6sqsI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/D22XTKLx41Mu94SrkimLJZuAMunGIH1JQCLcBGAs/s1600/schmidt.gif"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-x-4b9FqpsrQ/XJgoJL6sqsI/AAAAAAAAFZQ/D22XTKLx41Mu94SrkimLJZuAMunGIH1JQCLcBGAs/s320/schmidt.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Boston Braves first baseman Charles “Butch” Schmidt is seen leaping high for a catch on this baseball card produced in 1914. The photograph the card was based on was taken during spring training at Atlanta’s Ponce De Leon Park, in either 1913 or 1914.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Goudey (R319) Babe Ruth</h2>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_VhWgw2y1ME/XJgoIg1vJ6I/AAAAAAAAFZM/184ZM3U6XBklK7DCmlRAOF1CSpxC7uPRQCLcBGAs/s1600/ruth.gif"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_VhWgw2y1ME/XJgoIg1vJ6I/AAAAAAAAFZM/184ZM3U6XBklK7DCmlRAOF1CSpxC7uPRQCLcBGAs/s320/ruth.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The 1933 Goudey (R319) set features four cards of Babe Ruth. Three of these cards, including the card seen here (number 144), were based on a 1927 photograph taken by Charles Conlon at Yankee Stadium.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Goudey (R319) Lou Gehrig</h2>
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzRixF1ffss/XJgoH89UFRI/AAAAAAAAFZE/W50FlsY5rWsygsg-pD7BuerSv6iiNo9dgCLcBGAs/s1600/gehrig.gif"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xzRixF1ffss/XJgoH89UFRI/AAAAAAAAFZE/W50FlsY5rWsygsg-pD7BuerSv6iiNo9dgCLcBGAs/s320/gehrig.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Perhaps the same day that Conlon captured the above image of Ruth, the photographer also took the picture of Lou Gehrig that was used as the basis of both of his two 1933 Goudey (R319) cards, numbers 92 (seen here) and 160.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Play Ball (R336) Ted Williams</h2>
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDHRWyO2xy4/XJgoJy9of7I/AAAAAAAAFZU/sNk9lOqK5bktuGSqXy1LZCEPSoTfSDThQCLcBGAs/s1600/williams.gif"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tDHRWyO2xy4/XJgoJy9of7I/AAAAAAAAFZU/sNk9lOqK5bktuGSqXy1LZCEPSoTfSDThQCLcBGAs/s320/williams.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
This 1941 baseball card of Ted Williams features a portrait of the Red Sox star that was based on a picture taken by another great of the baseball photography world: George Brace. The Brace photo, shot in 1939 (note the barely visible edge of the “Baseball Centennial” patch on Ted’s left sleeve), was also the basis of his 1940 “Play Ball” (R335) card.<br />
<br />
<h2>
Bowman 1951 Mickey Mantle</h2>
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9C8AZuUs9PE/XJgoIO5jVqI/AAAAAAAAFZI/jN2PHCLYjuMdIhW6JW5voTMYsuuVlyDMQCLcBGAs/s1600/mantle.gif"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9C8AZuUs9PE/XJgoIO5jVqI/AAAAAAAAFZI/jN2PHCLYjuMdIhW6JW5voTMYsuuVlyDMQCLcBGAs/s320/mantle.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
This baseball card of rookie Mickey Mantle features wonderful artwork that was based on a photograph of the future Yankees star taken at Phoenix’s Municipal Stadium during spring training of 1951. The story behind this photo is detailed in <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2016/02/jackie-and-mickey.html" target="_blank">my blog post of February of 2016</a>.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-11327226704834276382019-03-12T09:07:00.000-04:002019-03-12T11:57:52.190-04:00Frank Owen Can't Catch a Break<br />
Poor Frank Owen. He can’t catch a break.<br />
<br />
Here’s a pitcher who notched over 20 wins in three straight seasons for the White Sox (1904-1906), became the first American Leaguer to toss two complete-game victories in one day (July 1, 1905), and on July 29, 1904, clouted his first-ever big league home run in the 10th inning to give himself the victory.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aItqX4O4G_c/XIb40vCzALI/AAAAAAAAFW4/7cHcALSAYEMLd7ZkQqQwfCCyDa7f5Z_1gCLcBGAs/s1600/inside%2Bthe%2Bpark%2Bhomer%2B-%2BChicago%2BTribune%2BJuly%2B30%2B1904.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aItqX4O4G_c/XIb40vCzALI/AAAAAAAAFW4/7cHcALSAYEMLd7ZkQqQwfCCyDa7f5Z_1gCLcBGAs/s320/inside%2Bthe%2Bpark%2Bhomer%2B-%2BChicago%2BTribune%2BJuly%2B30%2B1904.jpe" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Chicago Tribune, July 30, 1904</span><br />
<br />
Today, you’d be hard-pressed to find a baseball fan who has ever heard of the fellow. But to make matters worse, even back in his own day he got the Rodney Dangerfield treatment. Not one, but two, contemporary baseball cards misidentified him.<br />
<br />
Here are the sad stories:<br />
<h2>
1) The Fan Craze Error</h2>
In 1904, the Fan Craze Company of Cincinnati issued a low-budget baseball card playing game. Each card had revealed a baseball play (“strike,” “home run,” “out at first,” etc.). Players turned over cards one-by-one to determine the outcome of each play.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X5A58r1WjCA/XIb5U27mrgI/AAAAAAAAFXI/Df2sU4YArj0khyCDz5IuywEKriZsBAtRgCLcBGAs/s1600/fan-craze-1904.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X5A58r1WjCA/XIb5U27mrgI/AAAAAAAAFXI/Df2sU4YArj0khyCDz5IuywEKriZsBAtRgCLcBGAs/s320/fan-craze-1904.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
In 1906, the company released a high-end version of their popular game, a pair of sets known as the “Art Series” and billed as “an artistic constellation of great stars.” One set (known as the WG2 set among baseball card collectors) had blue backs and consisted of 54 cards, each bearing the likeness of an American Leaguer. The companion set (WG3) had red backs and numbered 51 cards, each adorned with photos of National Leaguers.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rQFHFCdVT30/XIb5cJOl5kI/AAAAAAAAFXU/TWX6QT_K0Mgp5xEjbFw6k8YRsavsdZD-QCLcBGAs/s1600/2019-03-09%2B18_08_33-Geyer%2527s%2BStationer_%2BDevoted%2Bto%2Bthe%2BInterests%2Bof%2Bthe%2BStationery%252C%2BFancy%2BGoods%2B...%2B-.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rQFHFCdVT30/XIb5cJOl5kI/AAAAAAAAFXU/TWX6QT_K0Mgp5xEjbFw6k8YRsavsdZD-QCLcBGAs/s320/2019-03-09%2B18_08_33-Geyer%2527s%2BStationer_%2BDevoted%2Bto%2Bthe%2BInterests%2Bof%2Bthe%2BStationery%252C%2BFancy%2BGoods%2B...%2B-.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i> </i></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>Geyer’s Stationer</i>, May 3, 1906</span><br />
<br />
The images on each card were reproductions of photographs taken by Carl Horner, a Boston-based cameraman who the weekly sports newspaper <i>Sporting Life</i> called the “official photographer of the major leagues.” Today, Horner is probably best remembered for taking this photo of Honus Wagner:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5TyZDMUoUpE/XIb5uoXmeTI/AAAAAAAAFXg/gGMY-QnqgaAw2ZqkesCWU5ETA3vqwg4CgCLcBGAs/s1600/wagner-photo-by-horner.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5TyZDMUoUpE/XIb5uoXmeTI/AAAAAAAAFXg/gGMY-QnqgaAw2ZqkesCWU5ETA3vqwg4CgCLcBGAs/s320/wagner-photo-by-horner.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
You’ll likely recognize that this photo was used for the Pittsburgh shortstop’s famous T206 card of 1909, but it was also used for his Fan Craze card from a few years earlier.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LPhLIJTj3Bc/XIb_ehCNTlI/AAAAAAAAFYk/kaIYs92M3DIE8UB73xsxFdJ_GXnM6zmfQCLcBGAs/s1600/wagner%2Banim%2Bgif.gif"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LPhLIJTj3Bc/XIb_ehCNTlI/AAAAAAAAFYk/kaIYs92M3DIE8UB73xsxFdJ_GXnM6zmfQCLcBGAs/s320/wagner%2Banim%2Bgif.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
A number of cards in the “Art Series” have players misidentified. For example, George Winter is misidentified as George Winters, Norman “Kid” Elberfeld’s last name is misspelled “Elberfield,” and Terry Turner’s card erroneously labels him as “Roy Turner.”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-93S9AAe08DU/XIb6BsdTNpI/AAAAAAAAFXw/iQYAXGdT01MMhA4UdQOQe17AQR2hluzbgCLcBGAs/s1600/winter-fan-craze.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-93S9AAe08DU/XIb6BsdTNpI/AAAAAAAAFXw/iQYAXGdT01MMhA4UdQOQe17AQR2hluzbgCLcBGAs/s320/winter-fan-craze.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CFHjjJ7d7co/XIb6AhH02mI/AAAAAAAAFXo/pYJwsMYKvaIWoob7J45R13CCo4a6lQQ9gCEwYBhgL/s1600/elberfeld-fan-craze.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CFHjjJ7d7co/XIb6AhH02mI/AAAAAAAAFXo/pYJwsMYKvaIWoob7J45R13CCo4a6lQQ9gCEwYBhgL/s320/elberfeld-fan-craze.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JBnKgOxZlvU/XIb6BCmQm3I/AAAAAAAAFXs/pGJUwsjTSks4Ou0f5GYLlwd_s-DxdEVjACEwYBhgL/s1600/turner-fan-craze.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-JBnKgOxZlvU/XIb6BCmQm3I/AAAAAAAAFXs/pGJUwsjTSks4Ou0f5GYLlwd_s-DxdEVjACEwYBhgL/s320/turner-fan-craze.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Frank Owen suffered a similar fate. His card is captioned “Billy Owen,” but there was no major leaguer by that name.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFcsGvQbZdY/XIb6WaHmv9I/AAAAAAAAFX8/iVHIKhdyCrgxSABaLupI6YZt4tZrVRRZACLcBGAs/s1600/owen-fan-craze.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VFcsGvQbZdY/XIb6WaHmv9I/AAAAAAAAFX8/iVHIKhdyCrgxSABaLupI6YZt4tZrVRRZACLcBGAs/s320/owen-fan-craze.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The discovery of this gaff and the correct identification of the player as Frank Owen were made by the folks at the <a href="http://baseballgames.dreamhosters.com/BillyOwen.htm" target="_blank">Baseball Games web site</a>, the go-to source for collectors of vintage baseball tabletop games. Alas, at the time of their research, they didn’t have the luxury of comparing the “Billy Owen” Fan Craze card to this original Carl Horner photograph of the pitcher:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YPgmv__eeHs/XIcAUPfyYfI/AAAAAAAAFYw/FiraKyclJS4pAEEdYR11ha8NhiXIho05wCLcBGAs/s1600/owen%2Banim%2Bgif.gif"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YPgmv__eeHs/XIcAUPfyYfI/AAAAAAAAFYw/FiraKyclJS4pAEEdYR11ha8NhiXIho05wCLcBGAs/s320/owen%2Banim%2Bgif.gif" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
To summarize, the “Fan Craze” WG2 card identified as “Billy Owen” is, in fact, Chicago White Sox pitcher Frank Owen. <br />
<h2>
2) The <i>Sporting Life</i> Cabinet Error</h2>
While the “Fan Craze” WG2 error has been known for a while, this next mistake is a new discovery.<br />
<br />
Starting in September of 1902, <i>Sporting Life</i> began advertising the availability of “cabinet sized phototypes of celebrated base ball players.” Over the next few years, issues of the newspaper regularly featured these ads, with new players made available on a regular basis. These cabinet cards (designated W600 in the card hobby) are popular collectibles and number well over 600. Some players are featured in more than one card and such was the case for one of the era’s most popular big leaguers: Mike Donlin. (For those wanting to learn a bit more about Donlin, <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2010/04/new-role-for-mike-donlin.html" target="_blank">I blogged about him</a> back in 2010.)<br />
<br />
Here are Donlin’s two <i>Sporting Life</i> cabinet cards: his Cincinnati card (at left) was made available in 1902, while his New York card (at right) was offered only after he was traded to Cincinnati in August of 1904.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_pfscb0WUls/XIb77q40_DI/AAAAAAAAFYI/xs-mxLxOjD42Vxs7-yh60Gvzf-1ld48FwCLcBGAs/s1600/both-donlins.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_pfscb0WUls/XIb77q40_DI/AAAAAAAAFYI/xs-mxLxOjD42Vxs7-yh60Gvzf-1ld48FwCLcBGAs/s320/both-donlins.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
But the two players pictured are not the same person. The player at right is indeed Mike Donlin. Compare that picture of him to the image below.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KN8XjcQarIo/XIb8F3Zy-5I/AAAAAAAAFYM/k5RwZdV-X5AG9Sl_gY5l7UsjCadMFNMBACLcBGAs/s1600/donlin%2Bphoto.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KN8XjcQarIo/XIb8F3Zy-5I/AAAAAAAAFYM/k5RwZdV-X5AG9Sl_gY5l7UsjCadMFNMBACLcBGAs/s320/donlin%2Bphoto.jpg" width="400" /></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Chicago Daily News negatives collection, SDN-003778. Courtesy of the Chicago Historical Society.</span><br />
<br />
So who is the player at left? Take a close look. Amazingly, it is our old friend Frank Owen, misidentified once again. Poor Frank Owen. He can’t catch a break.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h66QoN5kFF0/XIb8p-tft1I/AAAAAAAAFYY/Lvj6YB3C2kkHwbaZt4gyMp7qkQi8uhlgQCLcBGAs/s1600/frank-owen-comparison.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h66QoN5kFF0/XIb8p-tft1I/AAAAAAAAFYY/Lvj6YB3C2kkHwbaZt4gyMp7qkQi8uhlgQCLcBGAs/s320/frank-owen-comparison.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
To summarize, the <i>Sporting Life</i> W600 cabinet card identified as Mike Donlin with Cincinnati is, in fact, Chicago White Sox pitcher Frank Owen.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-79190730615510260732019-03-03T11:43:00.000-05:002020-02-20T08:29:06.509-05:00Baseball on the Cover of "The Saturday Evening Post"<br />
The cover art of the <i>Saturday Evening Post</i> is unquestionably the magazine’s most iconic feature. And throughout the 20th century, the <i>Post </i>enthusiastically embraced baseball as a favorite topic for these celebrated covers. By my count, no fewer than 68 issues of the <i>Post </i>overtly associated our national pastime with the magazine’s wholesome, all-American values by adorning its cover with baseball-related artwork. Here’s a brief look at a few of these covers, as well as a complete list of each and every one from the 20th century.<br />
<br />
<h3>
June 6, 1908</h3>
The <i>Post </i>of June 6, 1908, was the first to feature a baseball-related cover. Titled “Watching Baseball through a Fence,” artist James Ellsworth “Worth” Brehm depicted five boys struggling to catch a glimpse of a ball game through outfield wall knotholes.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lfLQhUd3Y_s/XHNFV95jByI/AAAAAAAAFNM/NhY-d8RVsCUnxkc84UvqYq1JnOw_pTONACLcBGAs/s1600/1908_06_06.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lfLQhUd3Y_s/XHNFV95jByI/AAAAAAAAFNM/NhY-d8RVsCUnxkc84UvqYq1JnOw_pTONACLcBGAs/s320/1908_06_06.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The <i>Post </i>revisited this theme half a century later when Norman Rockwell’s “Knothole Baseball” graced the cover of the August 30, 1958, issue of the magazine. Note that Rockwell cleverly signed the artwork by “carving” his name into the wooden fence.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2A37QGR6Ek/XHNFpA2K8xI/AAAAAAAAFNU/d13uyPlUTmMapAE6gj4hjXnMrWPiUr8XQCLcBGAs/s1600/1958_08_30.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2A37QGR6Ek/XHNFpA2K8xI/AAAAAAAAFNU/d13uyPlUTmMapAE6gj4hjXnMrWPiUr8XQCLcBGAs/s320/1958_08_30.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<h3>
<br />
</h3>
<h3>
May 15, 1909</h3>
While the artwork of Worth Brehm graced the covers of just two issues of the <i>Saturday Evening Post</i>, Joseph Christian “J.C.” Leyendecker’s paintings can be found on over 300 covers of the weekly magazine. This includes the issue of May 15, 1909: the second <i>Post </i>to feature baseball on its cover.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YxqomNj6SC0/XHNF6mjaFkI/AAAAAAAAFNc/ydCydtOwRvsBQUugUv_P4JXf74eAbnOpgCLcBGAs/s1600/1909_05_15.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YxqomNj6SC0/XHNF6mjaFkI/AAAAAAAAFNc/ydCydtOwRvsBQUugUv_P4JXf74eAbnOpgCLcBGAs/s320/1909_05_15.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Leyendecker regularly worked from live models, and the photograph below clearly shows that he did the same in making a preliminary sketch for this baseball painting.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e3vR2Y5uuBM/XHNGPNInMrI/AAAAAAAAFNk/O0jw1yOqrmIZcnG-Kmu_VjpBn5rxv9MiQCLcBGAs/s1600/Leyendecker%2Bin%2Bstudio.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-e3vR2Y5uuBM/XHNGPNInMrI/AAAAAAAAFNk/O0jw1yOqrmIZcnG-Kmu_VjpBn5rxv9MiQCLcBGAs/s320/Leyendecker%2Bin%2Bstudio.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oAV0xisVhK0/XHNGbCX8cTI/AAAAAAAAFNo/UrzhPjY1ZbseQXDOXMr0QoT85YjpHU4nACLcBGAs/s1600/Leyendecker%2Boriginal.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oAV0xisVhK0/XHNGbCX8cTI/AAAAAAAAFNo/UrzhPjY1ZbseQXDOXMr0QoT85YjpHU4nACLcBGAs/s320/Leyendecker%2Boriginal.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
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<h3>
October 1, 1910<br />
September 16, 1911<br />
September 30, 1911<br />
April 13, 1912</h3>
From October 1910 through April 1912, the <i>Saturday Evening Post </i>featured four baseball-related paintings by Pennsylvania native Robert Robinson. The last of this quartet depicts a batter about to bunt a ball. Many have speculated that the batter depicted by Robinson is Honus Wagner. Perhaps. But whoever the player is, his bunting form (or at least that illustrated by Robinson) is atrocious. He’s simply begging to have his fingers broken!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GeKGlHMZfM0/XHNH72_R6EI/AAAAAAAAFN4/DqgzIwHZaUoqw_3F1wQr6jcDaDlFruhUgCLcBGAs/s1600/1910_10_01.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GeKGlHMZfM0/XHNH72_R6EI/AAAAAAAAFN4/DqgzIwHZaUoqw_3F1wQr6jcDaDlFruhUgCLcBGAs/s320/1910_10_01.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5uH55YML1KA/XHNH7wgxpFI/AAAAAAAAFN8/0jUM9lJnQQoSuZDB2GNXHYFWtnmb1GfpgCLcBGAs/s1600/1911_09_16.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5uH55YML1KA/XHNH7wgxpFI/AAAAAAAAFN8/0jUM9lJnQQoSuZDB2GNXHYFWtnmb1GfpgCLcBGAs/s320/1911_09_16.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acQtznEqVhU/XHNH7eRNG7I/AAAAAAAAFN0/ZD20U1RQx-YiMpr86xbO64Db9VovoZscwCLcBGAs/s1600/1911_09_30.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-acQtznEqVhU/XHNH7eRNG7I/AAAAAAAAFN0/ZD20U1RQx-YiMpr86xbO64Db9VovoZscwCLcBGAs/s320/1911_09_30.jpe" width="400" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-79H0LuJcXvo/XHNH8lBov1I/AAAAAAAAFOA/Yakzg6cIvQQwW104umomYHOqs92vYlU9gCLcBGAs/s1600/1912_04_13.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-79H0LuJcXvo/XHNH8lBov1I/AAAAAAAAFOA/Yakzg6cIvQQwW104umomYHOqs92vYlU9gCLcBGAs/s320/1912_04_13.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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In 1912, the Curtis Publishing Company, owners of the <i>Saturday Evening Post</i>, republished these four illustrations as postcards that today are much sought-after collectables.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SDW6FEVSDfg/XHNIWkTYdXI/AAAAAAAAFOQ/MgnAGGL0L5EZhFV-ZjAkVMRg1br_kusGwCLcBGAs/s1600/robert%2Brobinson%2Bpostcards.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SDW6FEVSDfg/XHNIWkTYdXI/AAAAAAAAFOQ/MgnAGGL0L5EZhFV-ZjAkVMRg1br_kusGwCLcBGAs/s320/robert%2Brobinson%2Bpostcards.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<h3>
June 14, 1913</h3>
The first baseball-themed <i>Post </i>cover that featured the work of a female artist can be found on the June 14, 1913, issue of the magazine. Titled “Young Suffragette,” the painting by Violet Moore Higgins depicts a young girl with a baseball bat over her shoulder as she parades in front of disgruntled young boy.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sEjiK3EnhE/XHNIg0oQBgI/AAAAAAAAFOU/WJ-DCiaAvegF6n-t_LvTYIaAfYfLke2wACLcBGAs/s1600/1913_06_14.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-4sEjiK3EnhE/XHNIg0oQBgI/AAAAAAAAFOU/WJ-DCiaAvegF6n-t_LvTYIaAfYfLke2wACLcBGAs/s320/1913_06_14.jpe" width="400" /></a><br />
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Note that the young girl’s bat is quite similar to the various “black end” bats sold by A.G. Spalding & Bros. in the late 19th century.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0IL9UqMov1c/XHNItdiaJRI/AAAAAAAAFOY/aLfyETODvh8aMe7stBrolWNVC0oO95dDgCLcBGAs/s1600/00214v%2B-%2BSpalding%2BGuide%2B1896.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0IL9UqMov1c/XHNItdiaJRI/AAAAAAAAFOY/aLfyETODvh8aMe7stBrolWNVC0oO95dDgCLcBGAs/s320/00214v%2B-%2BSpalding%2BGuide%2B1896.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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That same year, a large advertisement for the <i>Saturday Evening Post </i>adorned the wall beyond the left field bleachers at New York’s Polo Grounds, home of both the Giants and the Yankees. The ad, which makes it clear that the magazine was even sold at the park, can be easily seen in this photo taken at the historic stadium after Game Three of the 1913 World Series.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8l4gjX2whfE/XHNI3nAoH3I/AAAAAAAAFOc/KjN4wG-mHKsyizPHXV0fZbafTfgudOGjwCLcBGAs/s1600/14482v%2BPolo%2BGrounds%2B1913.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8l4gjX2whfE/XHNI3nAoH3I/AAAAAAAAFOc/KjN4wG-mHKsyizPHXV0fZbafTfgudOGjwCLcBGAs/s320/14482v%2BPolo%2BGrounds%2B1913.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-ggbain-14482</span><br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
May 20, 1916</h3>
Like the work of J.C. Leyendecker, Norman Rockwell’s paintings were featured on the covers of over 300 issues of the <i>Saturday Evening Post</i>. It happens that Rockwell’s very first cover for the magazine had a baseball theme. Featured on the front of the May 20, 1916, issue of the <i>Post</i>, “Boy with Baby Carriage” depicts an unhappy boy charged with taking care of a baby, while two friends gloat as they head off to play ball.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ctk5SmZul4/XHNKBbkOoBI/AAAAAAAAFOw/fYFYlGGy_LMX_mUIQGSzymArTW-PilxXgCLcBGAs/s1600/1916_05_20.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3Ctk5SmZul4/XHNKBbkOoBI/AAAAAAAAFOw/fYFYlGGy_LMX_mUIQGSzymArTW-PilxXgCLcBGAs/s320/1916_05_20.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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As recounted by the artist in his 1960 autobiography “Norman Rockwell: My Adventures as an Illustrator”:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
In those days the cover of the <i>Post </i>was the greatest show window in America for an illustrator. If you did a cover for the <i>Post </i>you had arrived. But I was scared. I used to sit in the studio with a copy of the <i>Post </i>laid across my knees. “Must be two million people look at that cover,” I’d say to myself. “At least. Probably more. Two million subscribers, and then their wives, sons, daughters, aunts, uncles, friends.” </blockquote>
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
July 8, 1939</h3>
The cover of the <i>Post</i>’s July 8, 1939, issue featured one of Rockwell’s most familiar baseball paintings, “100th Year of Baseball.”<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hBUhrviiS0U/XHNJyf1i2YI/AAAAAAAAFOs/bN2504tnXD8slM6fFf8M3yCOjgLVsMhQQCLcBGAs/s1600/1939_07_08.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hBUhrviiS0U/XHNJyf1i2YI/AAAAAAAAFOs/bN2504tnXD8slM6fFf8M3yCOjgLVsMhQQCLcBGAs/s320/1939_07_08.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Of course, 1939 wasn’t actually the 100th year of baseball, but the theme made for a wonderful cover. Indeed, the painting was subsequently featured on the covers of two other issues of the magazine: June 1, 1972, and July 1, 1994. For reasons unknown, the 1994 version shows the umpire without a cigar in his mouth.<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-en_KUtX6t9k/XHNKifJ5KwI/AAAAAAAAFPE/MHDrrs92XuYibTpKGvM5qdFhY5ONNyr9ACLcBGAs/s1600/1972_06_01.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-en_KUtX6t9k/XHNKifJ5KwI/AAAAAAAAFPE/MHDrrs92XuYibTpKGvM5qdFhY5ONNyr9ACLcBGAs/s320/1972_06_01.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kEJDWT-oct8/XHNKiTe5huI/AAAAAAAAFPA/v0Li_zLiEdUGWzZOGK_hnEX0P1lCVcV3QCLcBGAs/s1600/1994_07_01.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kEJDWT-oct8/XHNKiTe5huI/AAAAAAAAFPA/v0Li_zLiEdUGWzZOGK_hnEX0P1lCVcV3QCLcBGAs/s320/1994_07_01.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<h2>
September 4, 1948</h2>
On May 23, 1948, the Chicago Cubs visited Boston for a doubleheader against the Braves. At the ballpark that day were Norman Rockwell and a few of his photographers who captured shots of members of the Cubs, as well as Frank McNulty, the batboy assigned to the visiting team. On September 4, 1948, Rockwell’s finished watercolor, “The Dugout,” graced the cover of the <i>Saturday Evening Post</i>.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lcA5oRkDoc4/XHNMar8oSoI/AAAAAAAAFPY/ENnhPymBrXw8vSNqTGj90aA8dJxQSZjOgCLcBGAs/s1600/1948_09_04.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lcA5oRkDoc4/XHNMar8oSoI/AAAAAAAAFPY/ENnhPymBrXw8vSNqTGj90aA8dJxQSZjOgCLcBGAs/s320/1948_09_04.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Seen in the visitors’ dugout at Braves Field are (left to right) pitcher Bob Rush, manager Charlie Grimm, catcher Rube Walker, and pitcher Johnny Schmitz. In front of the dejected quartet of Cubs is the batboy, whose image had earlier been captured by photographer Gene Pelham. Below is one of the numerous shots taken of McNulty at the park that day.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ml4mvJmNN64/XHNNGhMSJ4I/AAAAAAAAFPg/eAEjlkHwQ7sGertlwoygCg9ob-kUC8QPACLcBGAs/s1600/gene-pelham-photograph-for-the-dugout-1948.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ml4mvJmNN64/XHNNGhMSJ4I/AAAAAAAAFPg/eAEjlkHwQ7sGertlwoygCg9ob-kUC8QPACLcBGAs/s320/gene-pelham-photograph-for-the-dugout-1948.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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The Cubs lost both games of the doubleheader and ultimately finished the season in last place with a record of 64 wins and 90 losses. As for the particular individuals pictured, Charlie Grimm lasted another year as pilot of the Cubs, losing his job in June of 1949. Rookie moundsman Bob Rush ended the season with a mark of 5-11, while Johnny Schmitz posted an impressive record of 18-13 with a 2.64 ERA.<br />
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Rookie catcher Rube Walker started his first major league game in the second contest of the doubleheader that very day, but in the top of the first inning was knocked unconscious thanks to a beaning by Braves pitcher Vern Bickford. Walker returned to the field a week later, and after some struggles at the plate, ended the season with a respectable .275 batting average. <br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HZHZGsQE8gA/XHNN4QhFWLI/AAAAAAAAFPs/ZBEBBhS2wYEfv4LR1bfkhvsAGWwfTUwlgCLcBGAs/s1600/Miami%2BNews%2Bre%2BRube%2BWalker%2Binjury%2BMay%2B24%2B1948.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HZHZGsQE8gA/XHNN4QhFWLI/AAAAAAAAFPs/ZBEBBhS2wYEfv4LR1bfkhvsAGWwfTUwlgCLcBGAs/s320/Miami%2BNews%2Bre%2BRube%2BWalker%2Binjury%2BMay%2B24%2B1948.jpe" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Miami News, May 24, 1948</span><br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
April 23, 1949</h3>
About four months after Rockwell’s trip to Braves Field, the famous artist visited Brooklyn’s Ebbets Field in preparation for yet another <i>Saturday Evening Post </i>cover. On September 14, 1948, the Pirates were in town to play the Dodgers, and Rockwell brought along a photographer to capture images of members of both teams. The resulting painting, titled “Tough Call,” graced the cover of the April 23, 1949, issue of the <i>Post </i>and depicts three umpires (Larry Goetz, Beans Reardon, and Lou Jorda) looking skyward as Dodgers coach Clyde Sukeforth and Pirates manager Billy Meyer discuss the situation.<br />
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The painting is a bit confusing. The scoreboard shows that the Pirates are leading 1-0 in the bottom of the sixth (indeed, a Pirates outfielder can be seen in the background). If rain were to halt the game, the Pirates would be declared the victors. But if so, why is it that Brooklyn’s Sukeforth is happy and Pittsburgh’s Meyer is glum?<br />
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Inside the same issue of the <i>Post</i>, the situation is explained as follows:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
This week’s Norman Rockwell cover depicts Ebbets Field, the home of the Brooklyn Dodgers. The Dodgers are trailing the Pittsburg Pirates 1-0 in the sixth inning. If the arbiters – left to right, Larry Goetz, Beans Reardon and Lou Jorda – call the game because of rain, the score will stand as is, and Pittsburgh will win. This irks the Brooklynites, who dislike having other teams win. In the picture, Clyde Sukeforth, a Brooklyn coach, could well be saying, ‘You may be all wet, but it ain’t raining a drop!’ The huddled Pittsburgher – Bill Meyer, Pirate manager – is doubtless retorting, ‘For the love of Abner Doubleday, how can we play ball in this cloudburst?’”</blockquote>
But this clarification ignores the fact that it has apparently already begun to rain, as evidenced by the drop that has just hit the outstretched hand of home plate umpire Reardon. Other inconsistencies can be found in the illustration, as well, but one must remember that the painting is one artist’s vision, not an historically factual snapshot in time.<br />
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Interestingly, the version of Rockwell’s artwork published on the cover of the <i>Post </i>was <i>not </i>what the artist originally provided to the magazine. According to Corry Kazenberg, Curator of Archival Collections at the Norman Rockwell Museum:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
... a disgruntled Rockwell wrote to <i>Post </i>art editor Ken Stuart, noting that the original painting of Tough Call “had the piece of sky added when I still feel it was better as I conceived and painted it.” Photographs of Rockwell at work on the piece show that all the clouds running along the top length of the composition had previously been dark gray. The published version of the painting comprised of a blue sky with lightened gray and white clouds in the top right corner. In addition, the visiting Pirates’ gray uniforms were darkened. Who repainted Rockwell’s canvas?</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nXFS_qqcFSE/XHNQuJ1rlRI/AAAAAAAAFP4/bLtJRYAvBWM58P0PF7LhWyhxlLwKJpc9gCLcBGAs/s1600/study%2Bfor%2Btough%2Bcall.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nXFS_qqcFSE/XHNQuJ1rlRI/AAAAAAAAFP4/bLtJRYAvBWM58P0PF7LhWyhxlLwKJpc9gCLcBGAs/s320/study%2Bfor%2Btough%2Bcall.jpg" width="400" /></a> </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
In the late 1940s, the <i>Post </i>employed a Philadelphia artist, William H. Rapp, to adjust details of other artists’ illustrations including size, signature placement, changing real advertising signs to imagined ones, eliminating brand names, and other minutiae required of the editors. In addition to changing the sky and uniforms in "Tough Call," Rapp modified three other Rockwell covers in 1948 and 1949, done under the direction of Stuart. After the fourth altered cover was published, a displeased Rockwell addressed the situation in a letter to his art editor:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
</blockquote>
</blockquote>
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
This repainting of my work without my knowledge or consent has never happened to me before with the <i>Post </i>or any other magazine.<br />
This is very serious to me. As you know, I am willing to make changes or have a picture rejected, but I do feel that the re-painting of a man’s work to this point is completely unethical ... </blockquote>
</blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
I cannot go on painting with any strength or conviction with the threat of such changes to my work constantly hanging over my head.</blockquote>
An indication of his importance to the magazine, Rockwell’s protests did result in a change of protocol. In addition to Stuart’s assessment, two other editors—editor-in-chief Ben Hibbs, and managing editor Robert Fuoss—would together review Rockwell’s work on arrival, and afterward consult with the artist about possible changes.</blockquote>
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</h3>
<h3>
April 22, 1950</h3>
Another controversy related to a baseball-themed <i>Post </i>cover occurred the next spring. The front of the April 22, 1950, issue of the magazine featured a painting by artist Stevan Dohanos titled “Catching the Home Run Ball.”<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3gj6H-7LHk/XHNSFfT5bGI/AAAAAAAAFQE/s_n-5q4MZSc8pAYIo-4_8nEAmOhInk0IQCLcBGAs/s1600/1950_04_22.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-B3gj6H-7LHk/XHNSFfT5bGI/AAAAAAAAFQE/s_n-5q4MZSc8pAYIo-4_8nEAmOhInk0IQCLcBGAs/s320/1950_04_22.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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First, the title is a mistake. Those familiar with the layout of New York’s Polo Grounds will immediately notice that the ball in the painting is headed toward the third base seats in foul territory. The player is not attempting to catch a home run ball at all. He’s trying to snag a pop foul!<br />
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Second, in November of 2000, the son of artist Austin Briggs wrote in to the <a href="https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2000/11/16/norman-rockwell-lives/" target="_blank">New York Review of Books</a>, relating a much more disturbing problem:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
An incident concerning a cover that my late father [Austin Briggs], whose name I bear, painted for the <i>Saturday Evening Post </i>sheds light on the general absence of African-Americans from Rockwell’s American Main Street.<br />
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In “Norman Rockwell Painting America,” telecast last Thanksgiving eve in the PBS American Masters series, Richard Reeves related that Ben Hibbs, the editor of the <i>Saturday Evening Post</i>, made his position about African-Americans clear to Rockwell: “Don’t put them in your paintings. It makes people uneasy.” My father learned firsthand just how uneasy the <i>Post </i>was made by “them.”<br />
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If you look at the cover of the <i>Post </i>for April 22, 1950, you will see a painting of a group of spectators in the Polo Grounds reaching for a foul ball that is soaring into the stands as a player on the field runs toward them, the ball already out of his reach. Inside the magazine, “This Week’s Cover” offers an anecdote about the problems resulting from painting <i>Post </i>covers a year ahead of time. This cover, we read, originally showed Sid Gordon of the Giants chasing the foul, but when the third baseman was traded to Boston, the artist “irately detached Gordon’s face and substituted the countenance of Oscar Nobody, who isn’t apt to be traded.”<br />
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When I look at that painting, I see more than you do. That’s my father, ducking as he looks anxiously up at the ball, a paper cup in one hand and a hotdog in the other; he’s wondering how to protect the Rolleiflex hanging around his neck, the same camera he used to take the photos he worked from. You can’t see the face of the girl with the beautiful bright red hair, but I recognize a portrait of my sister Lorna. And there I am too, another redhead, at eighteen, looking up in the general direction of the fly ball with the same look of dazed confusion I generally brought to my unhappy tours in left field.<br />
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But this cover is only indirectly my father’s work, and someone who ought to be in the painting is missing. As Sid Gordon’s head was “detached” and replaced by Oscar Nobody’s, so another far more significant “substitution” took place. In the painting my father delivered to the <i>Post</i>, the hefty man sitting in the foreground with a handkerchief over his head to protect his pate from the sun was a black woman. She was a speaking likeness of Fanny Drain, a woman who worked for my family and was much loved by all of us. When the Giants were playing, she and my father—whose studio was at home—would follow the radio broadcasts avidly and vocally; her pride and pleasure in being included in the cover painting were deep.<br />
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When my father delivered his cover to the <i>Post </i>offices in Philadelphia, City of Brotherly Love, however, the editors told him that he would have to paint Fanny out of the picture. I don’t know what reason they gave; my father was too angry to recall anything but the demand and his response. He broke the painting, on a gesso panel, over his knee and walked out. The financial sacrifice was great, but he never regretted his act or repented his fury.<br />
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You can still see the portraits that remain on the cover because the <i>Post </i>hired Stevan Dohanos, a follower of Rockwell who did numerous <i>Post </i>covers, to repaint my father’s painting. The composition in the cover that ran is my father’s, the tonalities are pretty much his, and his self-portrait and the portraits of my sister and me are still easy to read. But Fanny Drain has been erased, turned into “Nobody.”</blockquote>
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</h3>
<h3>
March 2, 1957</h3>
In the fall of 1956, Norman Rockwell met with Sherman “Scotty” Safford, a student at Pittsfield High School, located less than 20 miles north of Rockwell’s studio in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. The lanky 18-year-old Safford was just the model Rockwell needed for a painting the artist titled “The Rookie.” Below are some photos of the youngster that Rockwell used to create his artwork.<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OxdbOQtywjk/XHNTuixlmlI/AAAAAAAAFQQ/TFLr9Iv9M7UanUF_jJtqNIOJsah5MhpGQCLcBGAs/s1600/rookie%2Bphotos.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OxdbOQtywjk/XHNTuixlmlI/AAAAAAAAFQQ/TFLr9Iv9M7UanUF_jJtqNIOJsah5MhpGQCLcBGAs/s320/rookie%2Bphotos.jpe" width="400" /></a><br />
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The artwork reproduced on the cover of the <i>Post </i>of March 2, 1957, depicted a green Red Sox rookie arriving at the club’s locker room at Payne Park, Boston’s spring training home in Sarasota, Florida. Not convinced the locale is supposed to be spring training? Check out the palm trees seen outside the window. That ain’t Boston’s Fenway Park!<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mwb9v7Py1PM/XHNT6iD7nRI/AAAAAAAAFQU/G-3VjoehlvAFvg93isIhfBl-S0VPSAUAACLcBGAs/s1600/1957_03_02.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Mwb9v7Py1PM/XHNT6iD7nRI/AAAAAAAAFQU/G-3VjoehlvAFvg93isIhfBl-S0VPSAUAACLcBGAs/s320/1957_03_02.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Also featured in the painting are Boston players Sammy White (bottom left), Frank Sullivan (on bench at far left), Jackie Jensen (tying his shoe), Ted Williams (standing at center), and Billy Goodman (far right). The player standing at far left was not a member of the Red Sox, but a stand-in whom Rockwell referred to simply as “John J. Anonymous.” In May of 2014, the original painting sold at auction for $22.5 million.<br />
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<hr align="center" size="2" width="70%" />
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Below is a complete listing of every baseball-related image to grace the cover of the <i>Saturday Evening Post </i>in the 20th century.<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7vjIM-J9h0/XHr3LwPiSSI/AAAAAAAAFQ8/CnRujHq4jpQ8JfAwpjPX0C1aQFjU4D1DgCLcBGAs/s1600/1908_06_06.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="654" data-original-width="515" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-W7vjIM-J9h0/XHr3LwPiSSI/AAAAAAAAFQ8/CnRujHq4jpQ8JfAwpjPX0C1aQFjU4D1DgCLcBGAs/s320/1908_06_06.jpg" width="251" /></a><br />
June 6, 1908<br />
“Watching Baseball through a Fence”<br />
Worth Brehm<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TE5iNUS4sXo/XHr3O8L9OyI/AAAAAAAAFRE/azbM_8EvhdMtgg6ts310k9XfVPVuOYSEACLcBGAs/s1600/1909_05_15.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1290" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TE5iNUS4sXo/XHr3O8L9OyI/AAAAAAAAFRE/azbM_8EvhdMtgg6ts310k9XfVPVuOYSEACLcBGAs/s320/1909_05_15.jpg" width="258" /></a><br />
May 15, 1909<br />
“Baseball Catcher”<br />
J.C. Leyendecker<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zhs0_KXeaJc/XHr3MbN1VQI/AAAAAAAAFRA/XSW90Bdihfs4vRzKsEDI5-H6458re9dVgCLcBGAs/s1600/1910_04_16.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="860" data-original-width="685" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zhs0_KXeaJc/XHr3MbN1VQI/AAAAAAAAFRA/XSW90Bdihfs4vRzKsEDI5-H6458re9dVgCLcBGAs/s320/1910_04_16.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
April 16, 1910<br />
“Sliding into Home Plate”<br />
Anton Otto Fischer<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xigmL-SBpyE/XHr3TMJMc2I/AAAAAAAAFRQ/tjHtaD1Px_446um6YtbeSmKM2eUcE6JtwCLcBGAs/s1600/1910_05_14.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1282" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xigmL-SBpyE/XHr3TMJMc2I/AAAAAAAAFRQ/tjHtaD1Px_446um6YtbeSmKM2eUcE6JtwCLcBGAs/s320/1910_05_14.jpg" width="256" /></a><br />
May 14, 1910<br />
“Sandlot Baseball”<br />
Anton Otto Fischer<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nnps7YIeGdg/XHr3RcpYKLI/AAAAAAAAFRI/JD4gryctQ308Xj_tqc7oQ8D6WCcj1hJjgCLcBGAs/s1600/1910_10_01.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1288" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nnps7YIeGdg/XHr3RcpYKLI/AAAAAAAAFRI/JD4gryctQ308Xj_tqc7oQ8D6WCcj1hJjgCLcBGAs/s320/1910_10_01.jpg" width="257" /></a><br />
October 1, 1910<br />
“Baseball Catcher Looking Up”<br />
Robert Robinson<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lYLC0Zk7GkA/XHr3R7CNeGI/AAAAAAAAFRM/x0PLnE2qaSA3gRo63vJiQOnKZx1eLSqZQCLcBGAs/s1600/1911_09_16.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1520" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-lYLC0Zk7GkA/XHr3R7CNeGI/AAAAAAAAFRM/x0PLnE2qaSA3gRo63vJiQOnKZx1eLSqZQCLcBGAs/s320/1911_09_16.jpg" width="252" /></a><br />
September 16, 1911<br />
“Boy Pitching Baseball”<br />
Robert Robinson<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tnzehBt6Zmg/XHr3T0MIJ2I/AAAAAAAAFRY/bJYO3nH1O3Y2JmJdR65EaJoRNLtdkwbcACLcBGAs/s1600/1911_09_30.jpe"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1230" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tnzehBt6Zmg/XHr3T0MIJ2I/AAAAAAAAFRY/bJYO3nH1O3Y2JmJdR65EaJoRNLtdkwbcACLcBGAs/s320/1911_09_30.jpe" width="245" /></a><br />
September 30, 1911<br />
“Baseball Fans”<br />
Robert Robinson<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--td7CMXbYpY/XHr3T43LPxI/AAAAAAAAFRU/trRTKaz3iPIz-vZdloYOVtKpOLjI0m7eQCLcBGAs/s1600/1912_04_13.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1589" data-original-width="1230" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--td7CMXbYpY/XHr3T43LPxI/AAAAAAAAFRU/trRTKaz3iPIz-vZdloYOVtKpOLjI0m7eQCLcBGAs/s320/1912_04_13.jpg" width="247" /></a><br />
April 13, 1912<br />
“Bunt” or “Baseball Player Bunting”<br />
Robert Robinson<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GKUmNObCnCA/XHr3WWrL19I/AAAAAAAAFRg/w49tV26saf8G6I7ihpDZHm0jwQasHoTHACLcBGAs/s1600/1912_06_08.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1272" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GKUmNObCnCA/XHr3WWrL19I/AAAAAAAAFRg/w49tV26saf8G6I7ihpDZHm0jwQasHoTHACLcBGAs/s320/1912_06_08.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
June 8, 1912<br />
“Conference on the Mound”<br />
Leslie Thrasher<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Rr8iIksf7A/XHr3V0EyzNI/AAAAAAAAFRc/I0MJ-xsjF3AIBXYj22syONG6xVaxhcwvwCLcBGAs/s1600/1913_06_14.jpe"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1255" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--Rr8iIksf7A/XHr3V0EyzNI/AAAAAAAAFRc/I0MJ-xsjF3AIBXYj22syONG6xVaxhcwvwCLcBGAs/s320/1913_06_14.jpe" width="250" /></a><br />
June 14, 1913<br />
“Young Suffragette”<br />
Violet Moore Higgins<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-le_8TNF3kEg/XHsAkRBWstI/AAAAAAAAFSA/uYDEEypRlFQ3VsASpQAV2e6cAuAWh2voACLcBGAs/s1600/1915_04_24.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1555" data-original-width="1217" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-le_8TNF3kEg/XHsAkRBWstI/AAAAAAAAFSA/uYDEEypRlFQ3VsASpQAV2e6cAuAWh2voACLcBGAs/s320/1915_04_24.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
April 24, 1915<br />
“The Windup”<br />
John A. Coughlin<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cZS6SNk5l7M/XHsAkQzatPI/AAAAAAAAFSE/ljSta2deimkGd1rEvvqJmsOxVbklipFtgCLcBGAs/s1600/1915_07_10.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1257" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cZS6SNk5l7M/XHsAkQzatPI/AAAAAAAAFSE/ljSta2deimkGd1rEvvqJmsOxVbklipFtgCLcBGAs/s320/1915_07_10.jpg" width="251" /></a><br />
July 10, 1915<br />
“Fighting a Losing Battle” or “Arguing the Call”<br />
Martin Justice<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rl-hqLLjheM/XHsAlKTaDFI/AAAAAAAAFSI/Enm26y0R6XYeSqnB0S3o5z7yZbcysNougCLcBGAs/s1600/1916_05_20.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1208" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rl-hqLLjheM/XHsAlKTaDFI/AAAAAAAAFSI/Enm26y0R6XYeSqnB0S3o5z7yZbcysNougCLcBGAs/s320/1916_05_20.jpg" width="241" /></a><br />
May 20, 1916<br />
“Boy with Baby Carriage”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vpdW7B9Ifa4/XHsAlqUeYeI/AAAAAAAAFSM/R2U6Lmt9o4ki6IvFN6eeHI-CITU3_a8wQCLcBGAs/s1600/1916_08_05.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1109" data-original-width="807" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vpdW7B9Ifa4/XHsAlqUeYeI/AAAAAAAAFSM/R2U6Lmt9o4ki6IvFN6eeHI-CITU3_a8wQCLcBGAs/s320/1916_08_05.jpg" width="232" /></a><br />
August 5, 1916<br />
“Gramps at the Plate”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t9UVWj6LhDE/XHsAmdiNDSI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/T3-D6mOnMCso7KvOdX4xAVWv5wKQWOPqQCLcBGAs/s1600/1917_08_04.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1588" data-original-width="1245" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t9UVWj6LhDE/XHsAmdiNDSI/AAAAAAAAFSQ/T3-D6mOnMCso7KvOdX4xAVWv5wKQWOPqQCLcBGAs/s320/1917_08_04.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
August 4, 1917<br />
“Baseball Rained Out”<br />
Charles A. MacLellan<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8EQonBJyyAo/XHsAmmeqI0I/AAAAAAAAFSU/NWXLdf3jBxgm2_F3583qBsjwOz7kRIFQACLcBGAs/s1600/1923_07_28.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="674" data-original-width="515" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8EQonBJyyAo/XHsAmmeqI0I/AAAAAAAAFSU/NWXLdf3jBxgm2_F3583qBsjwOz7kRIFQACLcBGAs/s320/1923_07_28.jpg" width="244" /></a><br />
July 28, 1923<br />
“Fly Ball”<br />
E.M. Jackson<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ys-72spvs20/XHsAm3VW0zI/AAAAAAAAFSY/BH646qKCBFcEXFxQuoQFdnvpf0-xEfydQCLcBGAs/s1600/1925_05_09.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1109" data-original-width="856" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ys-72spvs20/XHsAm3VW0zI/AAAAAAAAFSY/BH646qKCBFcEXFxQuoQFdnvpf0-xEfydQCLcBGAs/s320/1925_05_09.jpg" width="246" /></a><br />
May 9, 1925<br />
“Daydreams of Baseball”<br />
Robert Robinson<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-huErOy_XgQk/XHsAnm3trZI/AAAAAAAAFSc/_DCBg3EFZycHjjafpRi-t2JtpuulV_q8QCLcBGAs/s1600/1926_04_17.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1098" data-original-width="870" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-huErOy_XgQk/XHsAnm3trZI/AAAAAAAAFSc/_DCBg3EFZycHjjafpRi-t2JtpuulV_q8QCLcBGAs/s320/1926_04_17.jpg" width="253" /></a><br />
April 17, 1926<br />
“Boy’s Baseball Team”<br />
Eugene Iverd<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VK8LUqd2nwI/XHsAoXyVGWI/AAAAAAAAFSk/hRrMv7uDryYYs_Uegegv0WBOuhY9AAa_QCLcBGAs/s1600/1927_05_28.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1452" data-original-width="1098" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VK8LUqd2nwI/XHsAoXyVGWI/AAAAAAAAFSk/hRrMv7uDryYYs_Uegegv0WBOuhY9AAa_QCLcBGAs/s320/1927_05_28.jpg" width="241" /></a><br />
May 28, 1927<br />
“Safe on Base”<br />
Alan Foster<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rHph5sTFDwQ/XHsAoDxDEoI/AAAAAAAAFSg/4miTjHjxIoEH268uOBTkpLTqRb7OFUUZACLcBGAs/s1600/1927_10_01.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="565" data-original-width="428" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rHph5sTFDwQ/XHsAoDxDEoI/AAAAAAAAFSg/4miTjHjxIoEH268uOBTkpLTqRb7OFUUZACLcBGAs/s320/1927_10_01.jpg" width="242" /></a><br />
October 1, 1927<br />
“Baseball Fans”<br />
Eugene Iverd<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0T7Sm5Bh6LA/XHsAowuhHtI/AAAAAAAAFSo/i1v1y4j_aKIjuR0l4H-6x3BzxARWajOHQCLcBGAs/s1600/1928_09_29.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="598" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0T7Sm5Bh6LA/XHsAowuhHtI/AAAAAAAAFSo/i1v1y4j_aKIjuR0l4H-6x3BzxARWajOHQCLcBGAs/s320/1928_09_29.jpg" width="234" /></a><br />
September 29, 1928<br />
“Safe at the Plate”<br />
Alan Foster<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3UUmJ0sweFU/XHsHbtUH5ZI/AAAAAAAAFWg/KPacp8DxcwUDOGDhhRWIWeCo4Dwrux4vgCLcBGAs/s1600/1929_06_01.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="515" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3UUmJ0sweFU/XHsHbtUH5ZI/AAAAAAAAFWg/KPacp8DxcwUDOGDhhRWIWeCo4Dwrux4vgCLcBGAs/s320/1929_06_01.jpg" width="247" /></a><br />
June 1, 1929<br />
“Dad at Bat”<br />
Alan Foster<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hvg4BZTBoYI/XHsApu3AjrI/AAAAAAAAFSs/IhO2IDgWaxQVuBT2DWxDjWzeFuFQLl4hwCLcBGAs/s1600/1929_09_07.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1543" data-original-width="1215" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Hvg4BZTBoYI/XHsApu3AjrI/AAAAAAAAFSs/IhO2IDgWaxQVuBT2DWxDjWzeFuFQLl4hwCLcBGAs/s320/1929_09_07.jpg" width="251" /></a><br />
September 7, 1929<br />
“Pop-Up Fly”<br />
Harrison McCreary<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Fj4LZRxQoI/XHsBGKNEMhI/AAAAAAAAFTE/2fh373tFamIAVj4Q6ifNUWOA5Vd5Qq1vgCLcBGAs/s1600/1930_04_26.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1045" data-original-width="812" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--Fj4LZRxQoI/XHsBGKNEMhI/AAAAAAAAFTE/2fh373tFamIAVj4Q6ifNUWOA5Vd5Qq1vgCLcBGAs/s320/1930_04_26.jpg" width="248" /></a><br />
April 26, 1930<br />
“Home Run”<br />
Eugene Iverd<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CixH0CEx3O0/XHsBHHOYYwI/AAAAAAAAFTM/XA1JPXcSanAbO7OrTiIXWE7nZX_QkdiEgCLcBGAs/s1600/1930_08_30.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1474" data-original-width="1152" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-CixH0CEx3O0/XHsBHHOYYwI/AAAAAAAAFTM/XA1JPXcSanAbO7OrTiIXWE7nZX_QkdiEgCLcBGAs/s320/1930_08_30.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
August 30, 1930<br />
“Arguing the Call”<br />
Alan Foster<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XI-A1Zp5dk/XHsBHEq1nYI/AAAAAAAAFTI/qnBf2CId3C48VxNpecvrzUicGfburG1WgCLcBGAs/s1600/1932_05_28.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="639" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0XI-A1Zp5dk/XHsBHEq1nYI/AAAAAAAAFTI/qnBf2CId3C48VxNpecvrzUicGfburG1WgCLcBGAs/s320/1932_05_28.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
May 28, 1932<br />
“Baseball Batter”<br />
J.F. Kernan<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m0VbejThAyo/XHsBHmIlyhI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/f5Mo17WhH8EX3bFhbj6wOiuhqOJxySbvQCLcBGAs/s1600/1932_10_08.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1081" data-original-width="842" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m0VbejThAyo/XHsBHmIlyhI/AAAAAAAAFTQ/f5Mo17WhH8EX3bFhbj6wOiuhqOJxySbvQCLcBGAs/s320/1932_10_08.jpg" width="249" /></a><br />
October 8, 1932<br />
“Shadow Batter,” originally titled “Some Day”<br />
John E. Sheridan<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T043XW4ut-4/XHsBM3mNrVI/AAAAAAAAFTg/c6ZGK7jT4UM8EumQXNeq6hQplfWbReKSACLcBGAs/s1600/1934_08_18.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1242" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T043XW4ut-4/XHsBM3mNrVI/AAAAAAAAFTg/c6ZGK7jT4UM8EumQXNeq6hQplfWbReKSACLcBGAs/s320/1934_08_18.jpg" width="248" /></a><br />
August 18, 1934<br />
“The Windup”<br />
Eugene Iverd<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g8DBHh1Y8no/XHsBKv2645I/AAAAAAAAFTU/9OiblVah5CElPVGPw4mptsEmjuW_MPXMACLcBGAs/s1600/1939_07_08.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1283" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-g8DBHh1Y8no/XHsBKv2645I/AAAAAAAAFTU/9OiblVah5CElPVGPw4mptsEmjuW_MPXMACLcBGAs/s320/1939_07_08.jpg" width="256" /></a><br />
July 8, 1939<br />
“100th Anniversary of Baseball”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT50OXitw7k/XHsBK1lc8fI/AAAAAAAAFTY/qR2KT6o7Q6AGDPvm90FYl586qVkVgmsZQCLcBGAs/s1600/1940_05_11.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1223" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZT50OXitw7k/XHsBK1lc8fI/AAAAAAAAFTY/qR2KT6o7Q6AGDPvm90FYl586qVkVgmsZQCLcBGAs/s320/1940_05_11.jpg" width="244" /></a><br />
May 11, 1940<br />
“Rug Beater”<br />
J.C. Leyendecker<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J6m8brQoxFA/XHsBMmHnGyI/AAAAAAAAFTc/1S1-KIB34VYTukpeawRwDhyk77ZA7KywwCLcBGAs/s1600/1940_08_10.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1260" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J6m8brQoxFA/XHsBMmHnGyI/AAAAAAAAFTc/1S1-KIB34VYTukpeawRwDhyk77ZA7KywwCLcBGAs/s320/1940_08_10.jpg" width="253" /></a><br />
August 10, 1940<br />
“Up at Bat”<br />
Douglass Crockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-43yfwEju5FU/XHsBNZXwE3I/AAAAAAAAFTk/kMJaZuZitfcNIOvxr_azvO8VzXbuk64aACLcBGAs/s1600/1941_06_28.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1558" data-original-width="1280" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-43yfwEju5FU/XHsBNZXwE3I/AAAAAAAAFTk/kMJaZuZitfcNIOvxr_azvO8VzXbuk64aACLcBGAs/s320/1941_06_28.jpg" width="262" /></a><br />
June 28, 1941<br />
“Baseball Stadium at Night”<br />
Roy Hilton<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UM-bshz5Tx0/XHsBOP8QVtI/AAAAAAAAFTo/Or-QyH7Bqfk_EBXg0qAxnweLL2CvyJKNQCLcBGAs/s1600/1944_05_20.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1257" data-original-width="1001" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UM-bshz5Tx0/XHsBOP8QVtI/AAAAAAAAFTo/Or-QyH7Bqfk_EBXg0qAxnweLL2CvyJKNQCLcBGAs/s320/1944_05_20.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
May 20, 1944<br />
“Mumps”<br />
Stan Ekman<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WzX-hXooRhU/XHsBPaSZ-ZI/AAAAAAAAFTs/W7XQInGcRm8LDI5baBf0rwTQYalVeCcWACLcBGAs/s1600/1945_04_21.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1222" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WzX-hXooRhU/XHsBPaSZ-ZI/AAAAAAAAFTs/W7XQInGcRm8LDI5baBf0rwTQYalVeCcWACLcBGAs/s320/1945_04_21.jpg" width="244" /></a><br />
April 21, 1945<br />
“Island Game”<br />
Stevan Dohanos<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RJc9zD0L8dg/XHsBQGAzbxI/AAAAAAAAFTw/ZqIO825ippQ7US5RLADAKANj7M-JDyiKwCLcBGAs/s1600/1945_06_30.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1260" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RJc9zD0L8dg/XHsBQGAzbxI/AAAAAAAAFTw/ZqIO825ippQ7US5RLADAKANj7M-JDyiKwCLcBGAs/s320/1945_06_30.jpg" width="251" /></a><br />
June 30, 1945<br />
“Still Life of Boys Toys”<br />
John Atherton<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6hWvptllt-0/XHsBRIyZPrI/AAAAAAAAFT0/Ogxgt5mOwMMVI1avWxzRsnK8CZ5j8BD_gCLcBGAs/s1600/1946_07_20.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1572" data-original-width="1251" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6hWvptllt-0/XHsBRIyZPrI/AAAAAAAAFT0/Ogxgt5mOwMMVI1avWxzRsnK8CZ5j8BD_gCLcBGAs/s320/1946_07_20.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
July 20, 1946<br />
“Baseball Player Mowing the Lawn”<br />
Stevan Dohanos<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdKMsCyAdTc/XHsBRUo_MOI/AAAAAAAAFT4/pNg9dR4ebvImyUOhAqJJTvlQFXm6oXBswCLcBGAs/s1600/1947_04_19.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1552" data-original-width="1235" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VdKMsCyAdTc/XHsBRUo_MOI/AAAAAAAAFT4/pNg9dR4ebvImyUOhAqJJTvlQFXm6oXBswCLcBGAs/s320/1947_04_19.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
April 19, 1947<br />
“Yankee Stadium”<br />
John Falter<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uy-bkxjLgQQ/XHsBR5kT14I/AAAAAAAAFT8/vKnNTT_RU4chTZ0gQat4IRJr0CQMBa4HQCLcBGAs/s1600/1948_04_17.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1560" data-original-width="1230" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uy-bkxjLgQQ/XHsBR5kT14I/AAAAAAAAFT8/vKnNTT_RU4chTZ0gQat4IRJr0CQMBa4HQCLcBGAs/s320/1948_04_17.jpg" width="252" /></a><br />
April 17, 1948<br />
“More Clothes to Clean”<br />
George Hughes<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HxXKNJL85Ng/XHsBTS1OW4I/AAAAAAAAFUI/y_GBP7JCep4wjTDtf8N9lTTJxTgjQ3I_gCLcBGAs/s1600/1948_09_04.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1272" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HxXKNJL85Ng/XHsBTS1OW4I/AAAAAAAAFUI/y_GBP7JCep4wjTDtf8N9lTTJxTgjQ3I_gCLcBGAs/s320/1948_09_04.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
September 4, 1948<br />
“The Dugout”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TYGbh_-WCrk/XHsBSbNPs0I/AAAAAAAAFUA/r5phjYu_h28ujuzpWQaVhMSq5fKNX79TQCLcBGAs/s1600/1949_04_23.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="820" data-original-width="627" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TYGbh_-WCrk/XHsBSbNPs0I/AAAAAAAAFUA/r5phjYu_h28ujuzpWQaVhMSq5fKNX79TQCLcBGAs/s320/1949_04_23.jpg" width="244" /></a><br />
April 23, 1949<br />
“Tough Call” also known as “Three Umpires”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XAoPGvoQO3Y/XHsBTQO53SI/AAAAAAAAFUE/gd00SAkGUQcZW6d_9UNiG_-Ihi0QVs3uACLcBGAs/s1600/1950_04_22.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1092" data-original-width="872" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XAoPGvoQO3Y/XHsBTQO53SI/AAAAAAAAFUE/gd00SAkGUQcZW6d_9UNiG_-Ihi0QVs3uACLcBGAs/s320/1950_04_22.jpg" width="255" /></a><br />
April 22, 1950<br />
“Catching the Home Run Ball”<br />
Stevan Dohanos<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KYP3NfV2kNc/XHsBUAjmBLI/AAAAAAAAFUM/gndA17weeJMdNLshv32xVGAJnWNH0B9lACLcBGAs/s1600/1950_09_02.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1538" data-original-width="1240" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KYP3NfV2kNc/XHsBUAjmBLI/AAAAAAAAFUM/gndA17weeJMdNLshv32xVGAJnWNH0B9lACLcBGAs/s320/1950_09_02.jpg" width="257" /></a><br />
September 2, 1950<br />
“Family Baseball”<br />
John Falter<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30-Tj8WCwwU/XHsBVPVX5YI/AAAAAAAAFUU/8-wWgWxTmagMWTuxW8VWuEXooSeYHBYigCLcBGAs/s1600/1951_04_21.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1539" data-original-width="1222" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-30-Tj8WCwwU/XHsBVPVX5YI/AAAAAAAAFUU/8-wWgWxTmagMWTuxW8VWuEXooSeYHBYigCLcBGAs/s320/1951_04_21.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
April 21, 1951<br />
“Oregon Baseball”<br />
John Clymer<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VKBNpTRpsNE/XHsBU5pTYaI/AAAAAAAAFUQ/q8ymEDGaz3gLb9pDRejjHjWyI7OuZ5kggCLcBGAs/s1600/1952_05_24.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="815" data-original-width="650" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VKBNpTRpsNE/XHsBU5pTYaI/AAAAAAAAFUQ/q8ymEDGaz3gLb9pDRejjHjWyI7OuZ5kggCLcBGAs/s320/1952_05_24.jpg" width="255" /></a><br />
May 24, 1952<br />
“Day in the Life of a Boy”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_obEZ3wOPZs/XHsBV4kDaFI/AAAAAAAAFUY/C2EgXH5Ilqs3gcXJzrZ0ZfZjGxATbthGwCLcBGAs/s1600/1952_10_04.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1566" data-original-width="1185" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-_obEZ3wOPZs/XHsBV4kDaFI/AAAAAAAAFUY/C2EgXH5Ilqs3gcXJzrZ0ZfZjGxATbthGwCLcBGAs/s320/1952_10_04.jpg" width="242" /></a><br />
October 4, 1952<br />
“Linemen Listen to World Series”<br />
Stevan Dohanos<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ffcGUIefiug/XHsBWe6UDKI/AAAAAAAAFUg/XI4dOBeLRBsFVAiAwUXzbxbWoWZFT5MkwCLcBGAs/s1600/1954_05_01.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1032" data-original-width="803" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ffcGUIefiug/XHsBWe6UDKI/AAAAAAAAFUg/XI4dOBeLRBsFVAiAwUXzbxbWoWZFT5MkwCLcBGAs/s320/1954_05_01.jpg" width="248" /></a><br />
May 1, 1954<br />
“Stan the Man”<br />
John Falter<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTlKOuZFd6Q/XHsBW3T0s6I/AAAAAAAAFUk/TGpDKt32TNklQSyUetlFFxIqAZ2KXiTDwCLcBGAs/s1600/1954_08_21.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1523" data-original-width="1213" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rTlKOuZFd6Q/XHsBW3T0s6I/AAAAAAAAFUk/TGpDKt32TNklQSyUetlFFxIqAZ2KXiTDwCLcBGAs/s320/1954_08_21.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
August 21, 1954<br />
“Construction Crew”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lbhn0LwmRBo/XHsBXc_sa0I/AAAAAAAAFUo/cN6hcHFYX3kzx5E8gZdxkdCGTLyJF73SQCLcBGAs/s1600/1954_10_02.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1456" data-original-width="1157" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lbhn0LwmRBo/XHsBXc_sa0I/AAAAAAAAFUo/cN6hcHFYX3kzx5E8gZdxkdCGTLyJF73SQCLcBGAs/s320/1954_10_02.jpg" width="254" /></a><br />
October 2, 1954<br />
“World Series Scores”<br />
Thornton Utz<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rRO7NO8RYNA/XHsBYeSqUsI/AAAAAAAAFUw/z8t-RyiEXZIkHI_cEDIrRkf0wvnEbHNwQCLcBGAs/s1600/1955_03_12.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1555" data-original-width="1217" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rRO7NO8RYNA/XHsBYeSqUsI/AAAAAAAAFUw/z8t-RyiEXZIkHI_cEDIrRkf0wvnEbHNwQCLcBGAs/s320/1955_03_12.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
March 12, 1955<br />
“Norman Rockwell Album”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Le4X4Yyyc5w/XHsBYNO2hlI/AAAAAAAAFUs/hV2NWVQ5vwQ1seXHmBYhX0wQcgr2dZ1XACLcBGAs/s1600/1955_04_23.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="520" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Le4X4Yyyc5w/XHsBYNO2hlI/AAAAAAAAFUs/hV2NWVQ5vwQ1seXHmBYhX0wQcgr2dZ1XACLcBGAs/s320/1955_04_23.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
April 23, 1955<br />
“Sleepy Inning”<br />
Earl Mayan<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_-nz1QLPH4/Xk6JMlAparI/AAAAAAAAFn4/hb0cRt7tI8gc1LSEft1APUlXF5u3--ssACNcBGAsYHQ/s1600/1956_04_21.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="665" data-original-width="520" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9_-nz1QLPH4/Xk6JMlAparI/AAAAAAAAFn4/hb0cRt7tI8gc1LSEft1APUlXF5u3--ssACNcBGAsYHQ/s320/1956_04_21.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
April 21, 1956<br />
“Date with the Television”<br />
John Falter<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RUp9-uq4Ekk/XHsBYz0yNKI/AAAAAAAAFU0/BHNirYB8-0UKMxAQgQlQGeX0kVM13Cy8QCLcBGAs/s1600/1956_05_19.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1436" data-original-width="1210" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RUp9-uq4Ekk/XHsBYz0yNKI/AAAAAAAAFU0/BHNirYB8-0UKMxAQgQlQGeX0kVM13Cy8QCLcBGAs/s320/1956_05_19.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
May 19, 1956<br />
“At the Optometrist” or “Eye Doctor”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-89aF9-ZBrNE/XHsBcJNTxGI/AAAAAAAAFU8/lODQPzLNRhcYwMiBqFDldqfTp6wgtNooQCLcBGAs/s1600/1957_03_02.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1250" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-89aF9-ZBrNE/XHsBcJNTxGI/AAAAAAAAFU8/lODQPzLNRhcYwMiBqFDldqfTp6wgtNooQCLcBGAs/s320/1957_03_02.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
March 2, 1957<br />
“The Rookie (Baseball Locker Room)”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5fW9Hy0HVl4/XHsBcI8LLgI/AAAAAAAAFVA/VCSX2ToCXLcsfTdEfC2bK3aoawEWPSojQCLcBGAs/s1600/1957_04_20.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1250" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5fW9Hy0HVl4/XHsBcI8LLgI/AAAAAAAAFVA/VCSX2ToCXLcsfTdEfC2bK3aoawEWPSojQCLcBGAs/s320/1957_04_20.jpg" width="249" /></a><br />
April 20, 1957<br />
“Yogi Berra”<br />
Earl Mayan<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dzsc_rFWJ90/XHsBaTg9b_I/AAAAAAAAFU4/LToEbTWUsfg0MprF7WXK0afOS9qMHwcPACLcBGAs/s1600/1957_07_06.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="811" data-original-width="631" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dzsc_rFWJ90/XHsBaTg9b_I/AAAAAAAAFU4/LToEbTWUsfg0MprF7WXK0afOS9qMHwcPACLcBGAs/s320/1957_07_06.jpg" width="248" /></a><br />
July 6, 1957<br />
“Sandlot Homerun”<br />
John Falter<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUuAEsIkvdU/XHsBdKq4jaI/AAAAAAAAFVE/G1manwz9Q0I1N3nG3CWaS1EdLTFs0UgmACLcBGAs/s1600/1958_08_30.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1268" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-TUuAEsIkvdU/XHsBdKq4jaI/AAAAAAAAFVE/G1manwz9Q0I1N3nG3CWaS1EdLTFs0UgmACLcBGAs/s320/1958_08_30.jpg" width="253" /></a><br />
August 30, 1958<br />
“Knothole Baseball”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6MzGuwfAjks/XHsBe7E1rdI/AAAAAAAAFVM/Lb5dSKuenpwOhUdLttDKlGMWYAjYsKNBQCLcBGAs/s1600/1958_10_04.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1254" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6MzGuwfAjks/XHsBe7E1rdI/AAAAAAAAFVM/Lb5dSKuenpwOhUdLttDKlGMWYAjYsKNBQCLcBGAs/s320/1958_10_04.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
October 4, 1958<br />
“World Series in TV Department”<br />
Ben Kimberly Prins<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MhKU5kdvo70/XHsBe5BrZRI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/H90Y6wl6fG0ghFjJZP9QiklyfLvLfsvFACLcBGAs/s1600/1959_04_11.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1262" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MhKU5kdvo70/XHsBe5BrZRI/AAAAAAAAFVQ/H90Y6wl6fG0ghFjJZP9QiklyfLvLfsvFACLcBGAs/s320/1959_04_11.jpg" width="252" /></a><br />
April 11, 1959<br />
“Not Time For a Hotdog”<br />
Richard Sargent<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RRdZ9120m2U/XHsBfUs0dmI/AAAAAAAAFVU/yiXEzcJg1GozBqInU0d1FuTwrOkxUJyjQCLcBGAs/s1600/1960_04_02.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1562" data-original-width="1220" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RRdZ9120m2U/XHsBfUs0dmI/AAAAAAAAFVU/yiXEzcJg1GozBqInU0d1FuTwrOkxUJyjQCLcBGAs/s320/1960_04_02.jpg" width="249" /></a><br />
April 2, 1960<br />
“Recess at Pine Creek”<br />
John Clymer<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ry8NLge0kWE/XHsBhTFs8TI/AAAAAAAAFVc/vY_3qaOObmUICf2yXXWkuMS6ZXXjOp7GwCLcBGAs/s1600/1960_04_23.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1555" data-original-width="1224" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ry8NLge0kWE/XHsBhTFs8TI/AAAAAAAAFVc/vY_3qaOObmUICf2yXXWkuMS6ZXXjOp7GwCLcBGAs/s320/1960_04_23.jpg" width="251" /></a><br />
April 23, 1960<br />
“Grandma Catches Fly-ball”<br />
Richard Sargent<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q22usFCGw8g/XHsBhD-v0fI/AAAAAAAAFVY/CeUSPXEko7Un4e9vhYwYplOYBVUTXM1bQCLcBGAs/s1600/1960_10_08.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1250" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q22usFCGw8g/XHsBhD-v0fI/AAAAAAAAFVY/CeUSPXEko7Un4e9vhYwYplOYBVUTXM1bQCLcBGAs/s320/1960_10_08.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
October 8, 1960<br />
“Baseball in the Boardroom”<br />
Lonie Bee<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VjESVFI72-o/XHsBibNGz1I/AAAAAAAAFVg/iVVY3o4CeKckpJTaBijaqN9vMiTaR1KgACLcBGAs/s1600/1961_04_29.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1255" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VjESVFI72-o/XHsBibNGz1I/AAAAAAAAFVg/iVVY3o4CeKckpJTaBijaqN9vMiTaR1KgACLcBGAs/s320/1961_04_29.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
April 29, 1961<br />
“Baseball in the Hospital”<br />
Amos Sewell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--GMnhDGQIV0/XHsBiRwpuiI/AAAAAAAAFVk/qwVGm299wTUiU1Ognh75XgSHnv6B0xyLwCLcBGAs/s1600/1961_06_24.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1326" data-original-width="1052" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/--GMnhDGQIV0/XHsBiRwpuiI/AAAAAAAAFVk/qwVGm299wTUiU1Ognh75XgSHnv6B0xyLwCLcBGAs/s320/1961_06_24.jpg" width="253" /></a><br />
June 24, 1961<br />
“Checklist for Summer Camp”<br />
Ben Kimberly Prins<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2kUB-I9w400/XHsP9uuSEHI/AAAAAAAAFWs/qyqmEF0kKtoROMIUbtsVuFCovN5NPFsqACLcBGAs/s1600/1962_04_28.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2kUB-I9w400/XHsP9uuSEHI/AAAAAAAAFWs/qyqmEF0kKtoROMIUbtsVuFCovN5NPFsqACLcBGAs/s320/1962_04_28.jpg" width="200" /></a> <a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhMrZivZRvo/XHsBiXIWb7I/AAAAAAAAFVo/FUJmf2HPmy4pzbeKmIk5HEOUKQzBDD7xQCLcBGAs/s1600/1962_04_28-2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GhMrZivZRvo/XHsBiXIWb7I/AAAAAAAAFVo/FUJmf2HPmy4pzbeKmIk5HEOUKQzBDD7xQCLcBGAs/s320/1962_04_28-2.jpg" width="183" /></a><br />
April 28, 1962<br />
“Baseball Fight” (fold out cover)<br />
James Williamson<br />
<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlTr7SyzBtE/XHsBkUqS4CI/AAAAAAAAFVw/oc4q59Vm5nso0Xpd5fgx3G6CIKOg24d_wCLcBGAs/s1600/1963_05_11.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1254" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DlTr7SyzBtE/XHsBkUqS4CI/AAAAAAAAFVw/oc4q59Vm5nso0Xpd5fgx3G6CIKOg24d_wCLcBGAs/s320/1963_05_11.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
May 11, 1963<br />
“Leo Durocher”<br />
Lawrence J. Schiller<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tf5CPKTcDmE/XHsBk9VCWMI/AAAAAAAAFV0/Klow6y4TzN8bFWyRUyx7Z_QcwcVmST5EgCLcBGAs/s1600/1972_06_01.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1267" data-original-width="990" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tf5CPKTcDmE/XHsBk9VCWMI/AAAAAAAAFV0/Klow6y4TzN8bFWyRUyx7Z_QcwcVmST5EgCLcBGAs/s320/1972_06_01.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
June 1, 1972<br />
“Summer 1972”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<hr align="left" size="2" width="50%" />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q5BBTLj5HGY/XHsBlZe9UfI/AAAAAAAAFV4/xAVkFjTXt58UofMw46eadvE36ircps9RQCLcBGAs/s1600/1973_09_01.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1375" data-original-width="1034" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Q5BBTLj5HGY/XHsBlZe9UfI/AAAAAAAAFV4/xAVkFjTXt58UofMw46eadvE36ircps9RQCLcBGAs/s320/1973_09_01.jpg" width="240" /></a><br />
September 1, 1973<br />
“School Supplies”<br />
Robert Charles Howe<br />
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-btkEzUXrFJM/XHsBlpMN7ZI/AAAAAAAAFV8/1X4jSgp3OSgdb_ecB1uCNztntheUttpawCLcBGAs/s1600/1994_07_01.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="1375" data-original-width="1077" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-btkEzUXrFJM/XHsBlpMN7ZI/AAAAAAAAFV8/1X4jSgp3OSgdb_ecB1uCNztntheUttpawCLcBGAs/s320/1994_07_01.jpg" width="250" /></a><br />
July 1, 1994<br />
“Norman Rockwell Baseball Reprint”<br />
Norman Rockwell<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-24495505752267057342018-12-23T11:59:00.000-05:002018-12-23T11:59:14.221-05:00Off-Season’s Greetings!<br />
Actually, there never really is an off-season in baseball. The game’s “hot stove league” ensures that the national pastime is on our minds 365 days a year ... sometimes 366! But this is not a just modern-day phenomenon fueled by our 24/7 news cycle. It’s been going on a long time.<br />
<br />
For example, did you know that the Alert Base Ball Club of Charleston (SC) played a match game against the host Forest City Base Ball Club of Savannah (GA) on December 25, 1868? Yes, you read that correctly. They played a game of baseball on Christmas Day, 150 years ago!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vlA5rLOkW9w/XB8hOFRL6bI/AAAAAAAAFM0/DlDmAELFgtkRn-SDvZXcD1pWnct43bZOACLcBGAs/s1600/notice.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vlA5rLOkW9w/XB8hOFRL6bI/AAAAAAAAFM0/DlDmAELFgtkRn-SDvZXcD1pWnct43bZOACLcBGAs/s320/notice.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
As was the custom at the time, the clubs played a best two-out-of-three format that year, the first team to capture a pair of victories winning the “home-and-home series.” As it turns out, the clubs had split their previous two meetings, so this late-December game was the so-called “rubber” game.<br />
<br />
The nines first faced one another on July 4, 1868, the clubs apparently displaying a fondness for playing ball on major holidays. For this early summer contest, the Alert Club made the journey to Savannah and were generously and lavishly feted by the hosting Forest City Club.<br />
<br />
According to an article in the <i>Charleston Daily News</i> of July 6, 1868:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
The [Alert Club] was welcomed on the arrival of the [Steamer Fannie] at Savannah by a committee of the Forest City Club, escorted to and from the scene of [the] contest in omnibuses, and entertained by a handsome supper at the Screven House. In company with their antagonists of the Forest City, [the Alert Club was] photographed and afterward partook of champagne and punch at the Metropolitan Billiard Room.</blockquote>
<br />
Alas, I have been unable to track down that enticing photograph. If a reader manages to do so, please drop me a line. I’d love to add the 150-year-old image to this blog post.<br />
<br />
As for the game itself, the Forest City Club topped the visiting Alerts Club, 27-16. Two months later, on September 7, the second contest of the series, known as the “return game,” took place at Charleston’s Citadel Green, now called Marion Square. This time around, the Alert Club emerged victorious, topping their Savannah opponents, 51-16 in seven innings, the game ending early due to darkness.<br />
<br />
When the two clubs met for the third and deciding game on Christmas Day they did so back in Savannah. This was an unusual occurrence, as such winner-take-all finales were generally played at a neutral site. Despite this disadvantage, the visiting Alert Club ended up securing the victory, 45-42.<br />
<br />
Merry Christmas!<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9oGnhjwabe8/XB8iDBJ4-CI/AAAAAAAAFNA/jEwpD7CM6McTk17UXW9P_GwXdc6vF-o6gCLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9oGnhjwabe8/XB8iDBJ4-CI/AAAAAAAAFNA/jEwpD7CM6McTk17UXW9P_GwXdc6vF-o6gCLcBGAs/s320/4.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-77180458477756644892018-12-03T08:31:00.002-05:002023-07-14T09:11:32.770-04:00An Important Moment in Baseball History Captured in a Panoramic Photo<br />
This panoramic photograph, one that I had never seen until just a few months ago, captures an important moment baseball history, but it took some research to reveal its story.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wo63Xgr6X-I/XARIb8ibiPI/AAAAAAAAFJA/WeR4CZMcNRM5vSilB91u9C5pTVm9X8jsACLcBGAs/s1600/photo%2Bfrom%2BAndrew%2BSmith.jpe"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wo63Xgr6X-I/XARIb8ibiPI/AAAAAAAAFJA/WeR4CZMcNRM5vSilB91u9C5pTVm9X8jsACLcBGAs/s320/photo%2Bfrom%2BAndrew%2BSmith.jpe" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
In early September of 2018, Andrew Smith of <a href="https://www.andrewsmithgallery.com/" target="_blank">Andrew Smith Gallery in Tucson, Arizona</a>, contacted me regarding the photograph. He informed me that the original, a 14.5" × 47" gelatin silver print, came from a group of Detroit Publishing photographs he has owned for decades and was likely taken with a Cirkut panoramic camera. Other than the information written at the bottom left-hand corner, which reads “Boston Washington Opening Game,” basically nothing was known about the image. Andrew asked if I could identify the date and location the photo was taken. I set to work.<br />
<br />
First, given the general appearance of the photo and the attire of the fans, there’s little doubt the shot was taken sometime during the first two decades of the 20th century.<br />
<br />
A quick examination of the players’ uniforms reveals that the team in the field is wearing home whites, while the team at bat is clad in their road grays. A closer look at the uniforms allows us to learn even more. Here are details from the photo showing the center fielder (top) and left fielder (bottom):<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JceIpBLw_Yw/XARLvj3ynrI/AAAAAAAAFJQ/5yWjoHlzhPcR3EF_4w6XdzLwmtSDS-GSwCLcBGAs/s1600/CENTER-FIELDER.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JceIpBLw_Yw/XARLvj3ynrI/AAAAAAAAFJQ/5yWjoHlzhPcR3EF_4w6XdzLwmtSDS-GSwCLcBGAs/s320/CENTER-FIELDER.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X19Zwn72Kk8/XARLqTZRaeI/AAAAAAAAFJM/SjMiLwzGyqUvPngAkNCJ3qivtxLfcf_3ACLcBGAs/s1600/LEFT-FIELDER.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X19Zwn72Kk8/XARLqTZRaeI/AAAAAAAAFJM/SjMiLwzGyqUvPngAkNCJ3qivtxLfcf_3ACLcBGAs/s320/LEFT-FIELDER.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Note that their uniforms are rather bland. The jersey and pants are solid white. The belt, stockings, and cap are dark. There do not appear to be any distinguishing marks on the sleeves.<br />
<br />
As for the rest of the players in the field, every one (save the catcher, who is so far away as to be of no use for our research) is facing away from the camera, so any helpful markings that may be on the front of their jerseys are hidden.<br />
<br />
Now let’s turn our attention to the team at bat. Take a look at the batter leading off first and his first base coach:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufUAEcnlYvs/XARL-wrj_fI/AAAAAAAAFJY/dbGVpRrnvOotOd-oTDwt3RQYJBYiIDG9QCLcBGAs/s1600/NEAR-FIRST-BASE.jpg"><img border="0" data-original-height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ufUAEcnlYvs/XARL-wrj_fI/AAAAAAAAFJY/dbGVpRrnvOotOd-oTDwt3RQYJBYiIDG9QCLcBGAs/s320/NEAR-FIRST-BASE.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Even though they are far in the distance, we can see that the club’s jersey, pants, and cap are gray, the belt is dark, and the stockings are gray with a thick dark stripe. Additionally, the coach is wearing a dark sweater-jacket with a light-colored placket.<br />
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Working under the assumption that, as the title suggests, the game is between Washington and Boston, it quickly becomes apparent that the team in the field cannot be the Red Sox. Not only did the club not wear dark caps at home until 1933 (as noted above, this photo was clearly taken well before that time), but the ballpark doesn’t match either Fenway Park (which opened in 1912) or its predecessor, the Huntington Avenue Grounds (Boston’s home from 1901 to 1911).<br />
<br />
Here’s what Fenway Park looked like in 1914, just two years after it opened:<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-06wtEKCJd40/XARMR5kHNAI/AAAAAAAAFJk/AfCkiYi4-tQxqXSP3wHIimix9EaSRHSDACLcBGAs/s1600/fenway%2Bin%2B1914%2BWS.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-06wtEKCJd40/XARMR5kHNAI/AAAAAAAAFJk/AfCkiYi4-tQxqXSP3wHIimix9EaSRHSDACLcBGAs/s320/fenway%2Bin%2B1914%2BWS.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
And here’s a wonderful photo of Boston’s Huntington Avenue Grounds from 1903. (Incidentally, <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2011/08/nix-flicks-sticks-in-box-for-sox-in-rox.html" target="_blank">I blogged about back in 2011</a>.)<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--LZB8QXoH2Q/XARM3LG1obI/AAAAAAAAFJs/yUReKARjamUndwLTm7NGDO5MF5czJE9BwCLcBGAs/s1600/6a28813v.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/--LZB8QXoH2Q/XARM3LG1obI/AAAAAAAAFJs/yUReKARjamUndwLTm7NGDO5MF5czJE9BwCLcBGAs/s320/6a28813v.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-USZC2-6131 DLC</span><br />
<br />
As seen above, both of these parks featured a covered grandstand behind home, but our mystery photo shows a park in which not a single seat is covered. Indeed, it was this detail that confused me the most, as I was unaware of any big league park from this era that lacked a roof over at least some of its seats. As it turns out, however, this wholly “unprotected” seating would be the clue that ultimately solved this baseball mystery. But more about that later.<br />
<br />
Having eliminated Boston as the home team, I looked for seasons in which Washington wore a home uniform as described above. Consulting the <a href="http://exhibits.baseballhalloffame.org/dressed_to_the_nines/database.htm" target="_blank">Hall of Fame’s Dressed to the Nines database</a>, I found that the club’s duds in both 1907 and 1911 matched up well with what is seen in the photo. The Senators would not again wear such uniforms until the late 1930s, but (as previously noted) the photo was most certainly taken much earlier than that. Here are the home uniforms of the Senators for 1907 and 1911:<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyC2v5gLobg/XARQJTs4L9I/AAAAAAAAFKI/2u1ZUyipHs8cSYVy6Y6iIg8M1r88uR36gCLcBGAs/s1600/washington-dttn.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nyC2v5gLobg/XARQJTs4L9I/AAAAAAAAFKI/2u1ZUyipHs8cSYVy6Y6iIg8M1r88uR36gCLcBGAs/s320/washington-dttn.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Note that while the 1911 Washington caps had thin vertical stripes, this feature does not show up in the panoramic photo. However, it is quite common for such subtleties to be “washed out” in images of this quality.<br />
<br />
So what did Boston wear on the road in 1907 and 1911? Two very different uniforms:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oPKBqQmdn_k/XARQQAoenLI/AAAAAAAAFKM/nmeocWks45wISe8u6YFseih9lmXdHiPkQCLcBGAs/s1600/boston-dttn.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-oPKBqQmdn_k/XARQQAoenLI/AAAAAAAAFKM/nmeocWks45wISe8u6YFseih9lmXdHiPkQCLcBGAs/s320/boston-dttn.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Boston’s stockings from 1907 are solid colored, but their striped stockings of 1911 are a perfect match with the uniform worn by the team at bat in our mystery photo. Additionally, a different photograph, this one taken during Boston's 1911 spring training in Los Angeles, shows the club with beautiful sweater jackets:<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgH02uHXddQ/XARTKTrX5xI/AAAAAAAAFKc/WxX9UnT_9VI1iSGWL_q2CN9BEIxw4N0mACLcBGAs/s1600/Sox_LA1911origjpg.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-bgH02uHXddQ/XARTKTrX5xI/AAAAAAAAFKc/WxX9UnT_9VI1iSGWL_q2CN9BEIxw4N0mACLcBGAs/s320/Sox_LA1911origjpg.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
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Note how these jackets match what the first base coach is wearing in our panoramic photo, as it is also dark with a light-colored placket. Too bad we can’t see the left side of the coach’s jacket in the panoramic photo, but I am confident that it reads “RED SOX” as seen in the spring training photo.<br />
<br />
So, with some fairly straightforward uniform research, it certainly appears that Andrew Smith’s photo was taken in 1911. Still, it would be wise to confirm this conclusion by a different means.<br />
<br />
Recall that the caption stated that the matchup between Boston and Washington was the “Opening Game.” Perusing the American League schedules available at the <a href="http://retrosheet.org/" target="_blank">retrosheet.org web site</a>, I carefully jotted down each season in which Boston was the visiting team for a home opener at Washington.<br />
<br />
From 1901 through 1920, this occurred on five occasions:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>April 23, 1902</li>
<li>April 22, 1908</li>
<li>April 12, 1911</li>
<li>April 23, 1914</li>
<li>April 22, 1920</li>
</ul>
Happily, of these dates, one matches years with our prior research: the opening day game of April 12, 1911. Here’s a box score from that game:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8e6EGaLm1b8/XASA0kjslPI/AAAAAAAAFLs/rQMIy4dXol8GEdGbAbb_p4VDxFmdGcQPgCLcBGAs/s1600/box-score.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8e6EGaLm1b8/XASA0kjslPI/AAAAAAAAFLs/rQMIy4dXol8GEdGbAbb_p4VDxFmdGcQPgCLcBGAs/s320/box-score.jpg" width="151" /></a><br />
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Note that the right-handed throwing Clyde Milan is playing center field for Washington. This matches nicely with the center fielder in our photo, who is apparently wearing a glove on his left hand. And the left-handed throwing Jack Lelivelt is manning left field. Again, this matches our photo, as it certainly looks as though the left fielder is wearing a glove on his right hand.<br />
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These small details are additional clues that help confirm that the photo was taken on April 12, 1911. But there is one significant problem. Washington’s opening game of 1911 took place at National Park, later and more familiarly known as Griffith Stadium. But the park in the photograph looks nothing like that historic ballpark. Here’s a quintessential image of Griffith Stadium in 1925:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZTdEGC-f7ao/XAR4vK7tAYI/AAAAAAAAFLE/dPNoC2da1DwzVvp6FWsBPUBJ2PMmm6GYgCLcBGAs/s1600/griffith%2Bin%2B1925.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZTdEGC-f7ao/XAR4vK7tAYI/AAAAAAAAFLE/dPNoC2da1DwzVvp6FWsBPUBJ2PMmm6GYgCLcBGAs/s320/griffith%2Bin%2B1925.jpg" width="300" /></a><br />
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Notice that, other than the bleachers, every section of the park has a covered grandstand. How can this be the same park that we see in the photograph? Here’s how:<br />
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On March 17, 1911, fire severely damaged Washington’s home ball park, at the time generally known as “American League Park.” A few photos of the conflagration show the extent of the disaster:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fnJmdhhOMBw/XAR5BP1KT6I/AAAAAAAAFLM/bnmguedBUAMZHa-3C0dwy02e5_lLEG8nQCLcBGAs/s1600/00082v.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fnJmdhhOMBw/XAR5BP1KT6I/AAAAAAAAFLM/bnmguedBUAMZHa-3C0dwy02e5_lLEG8nQCLcBGAs/s320/00082v.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-hec-00082</span><br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YGQURRiKT94/XAR5MDK2u7I/AAAAAAAAFLQ/TyLbkn3wnOcjHQ6oKTRgm8ZnKz2zTOb1ACEwYBhgL/s1600/00084v.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YGQURRiKT94/XAR5MDK2u7I/AAAAAAAAFLQ/TyLbkn3wnOcjHQ6oKTRgm8ZnKz2zTOb1ACEwYBhgL/s320/00084v.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-hec-00084</span><br />
<br />
With opening day less than a month away, the club made the bold decision to rebuild the park at the same site ... and host the scheduled home opener on April 12 against the Red Sox. Working around the clock, they managed to pull off the incredible feat. As reported just a few days before the big game in the Washington, D.C. <i>Evening Star</i> of April 9, 1911:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Except for roof and superstructure, a splendid concrete grandstand—something better than Washington fans ever have had to support their energies when rooting for the home team—is ready at the base ball park for the opening game Wednesday.</blockquote>
<blockquote>
<br />
A marvel of rapidity in construction has been accomplished in the few short weeks since fire converted into smoke the frame structure which provided in the past a vantage point for enthusiasts to view the performances of the Nationals and their adversaries in victory and defeat.<br />
<br />
Day and night the chanting of the negro laborers has been heard in the vicinity. Like Aladdin’s palace, the structure rose as by magic. It is finished—all that is essential for that imperative occasion, the opening game.</blockquote>
And the day after the opening game, the <i>Evening Star</i> reported:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Every one who saw the new concrete stands will have a description to fit them by now. A complete stadium, that’s what the new stands are. They have a solid, well built, aristocratic appearance and inclose [sic] the field almost completely. They will have a better appearance, of course, when the roof is put on, and still better when the double-decker is completed next year.</blockquote>
So the park that rose from the ashes of “American League Park” and opened on April 12, 1911, was incomplete. It lacked the planned roofs and second deck (which were eventually completed), but it was good enough to host opening day. That is the park we see in our mystery photo.<br />
<br />
The more completed park did not debut until late July, as noted in the <i>Washington Herald</i> of July 23, 1911:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Tuesday afternoon when the ump shouts. “batter up” at National Park, District fans will be quartered in one of the prettiest baseball grounds in the country.</blockquote>
<blockquote>
A remarkable transformation has taken place while the club has been on the road, and while every minor detail will not be completed, the grand stand and two immense concrete bleachers will seat the patrons out of reach of the sun. The double-decker grand stand yesterday lacked only a few finishing touches, and the contractors state that all will be in readiness by Tuesday [July 25].<br />
<br />
... The diamond has been shifted to its permanent place, and has been drawn considerably nearer the stand.</blockquote>
So, not only was the ballpark incomplete when the photograph was taken, even the final placement of the diamond was not at the same location within the park.<br />
<br />
From 1911 through 1961, the ballpark was home to the Washington Senators ... actually, two different Senators clubs. The first was a founding member of the American League and the second was an expansion club that replaced the old Senators when they left to become the Minnesota Twins.<br />
<br />
Though often ridiculed as “First in war, first in peace, and last in the American League”—sportswriter Charles Dryden’s quip actually dates back to mid-season of 1904—the Senators had some modicum of success at the ballpark, including winning Game Seven of the 1924 World Series on its diamond in one of the most exciting finales in the history of the Fall Classic.<br />
<br />
Every U.S. president from William Howard Taft to John F. Kennedy tossed out a ceremonial first pitch from the ballpark’s stands. This was even true on that first Opening Day in 1911. Indeed, somewhere in our mystery photo, Taft is sitting in the stands, enjoying the ball game. Thankfully, his first pitch <i>was</i> captured in a different photo published in the <i>Evening Star</i> the following day:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BhZG2OxAybk/XAR2z_ZSObI/AAAAAAAAFKo/zo3kLGDq8Kk5vsvsxZ0Ozh1xOFmzLJTvACLcBGAs/s1600/Taft-opening-pitch-Washingt.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BhZG2OxAybk/XAR2z_ZSObI/AAAAAAAAFKo/zo3kLGDq8Kk5vsvsxZ0Ozh1xOFmzLJTvACLcBGAs/s320/Taft-opening-pitch-Washingt.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
In conclusion, Andrew Smith’s panoramic photo depicts the Opening Day game played between Boston and Washington on April 12, 1911. It was the first game played at what would eventually be known as Griffith Stadium, the historic site of half a century of Washington baseball history.<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-11658327904644624902018-11-07T21:02:00.000-05:002018-11-07T21:02:07.896-05:00What is the Proper Pronunciation of Nap Lajoie’s Surname?<br />
Let’s just cut to the chase. It’s lazh-uh-way, with the emphasis on the first syllable.<br />
<br />
It’s not lah-zhwa, with the accent on the second syllable, though this is the correct French pronunciation. And certainly there are other people named Lajoie who pronounce it that way.<br />
<br />
It’s not luh-joy, with a hard J and the accent on the second syllable. However there are a number of Lajoies who pronounce it that way. For example, Bill Lajoie, who played minor league baseball and later became a successful baseball executive, used that pronunciation. (By the way, some sources state that Bill was the grandson of Nap, but this is not true. Nap’s only daughter, Lillian, had no children.) And two-time NASCAR Busch Series champion Randy LaJoie (and his sons Cory and Casey) use this pronunciation, as well. In fact, you can hear Randy pronounce his name in <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BI0Z8vMMXCM" target="_blank">this video</a>.<br />
<br />
So why do we know that the correct pronunciation is lazh-uh-way? Because the overwhelming preponderance of contemporary evidence clearly says so.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_xjdlGkId0/W-OSSOdjHPI/AAAAAAAAFI0/56XDaCWKcswfvNSymOPbJ67iL3OCpnnbACLcBGAs/s1600/lajoie.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W_xjdlGkId0/W-OSSOdjHPI/AAAAAAAAFI0/56XDaCWKcswfvNSymOPbJ67iL3OCpnnbACLcBGAs/s320/lajoie.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, LC-DIG-hec-02789</span><br />
<br />
Absent an audio recording of Nap Lajoie reciting his own name, the best method to determine the correct way to say his last name is to scour contemporary accounts for direct references. Doing that research reveals that the vast majority of newspaper accounts that address this question give the answer of lazh-uh-way. Additionally, in doing this research, I found a number of articles that very directly and emphatically refute the luh-joy pronunciation.<br />
<br />
Below are just a few examples of the many references regarding the correct way to say Lajoie that were published during Nap’s lifetime:<br />
<br />
From the <i>Buffalo Commercial</i>, April 28, 1897:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Lashu-aye, with the accent on the first syllable, which is the proper way to pronounce Lajoie’s name, has rather too much of a French twist to it to suit his colleagues on the Philadelphia team, so the players call him “Larry” for short.</blockquote>
<br />
From the <i>Nebraska State Journal </i>of September 29, 1901:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Lajoie is pronounced “Lazhoway.” The way he hits is pronounced “Get-out-of-the-way.”</blockquote>
<br />
From the <i>Fort Wayne (IN) News </i>of April 21, 1903:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Lajoie’s name is pronounced “Lazh-ah-we,” with the emphasis on the first syllable.</blockquote>
<br />
From the <i>Washington Post </i>of August 12, 1906:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
In St. Louis and Washington they call him “La-Joe,” in Chicago, Detroit, Philadelphia, and, yes, in Cleveland, it is nearly always “Lo-Joy;” in New York they scorn everything but the nickname, “Larry,” or perhaps they fear to show themselves up on a French word, and pass up his last name for reasons of policy. At any rate, the fact remains that in Boston only is his name pronounced aright among the hoi polloi, “Lazhooay.”</blockquote>
<br />
From the <i>St. Louis Star and Times </i>of January 2, 1912<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
How is Lajoie pronounced? As though spelled “Lash-way.”</blockquote>
<br />
From the <i>Elyria (OH) Chronicle-Telegraph </i>of February 24, 1912<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
According to Napoleon it can be [pronounced] by running the scales a few times and with some finger practice by going at it thus—Lazh-u-way.</blockquote>
<br />
From the <i>Louisville Courier-Journal </i>of January 24, 1937:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Most baseball fans called Napoleon “La-Joy,’ with accent on the “joy.” He pronounces his name “Lazh-a-way,” with accent on the “Lazh,” the “azh” being the same as in “azure.”</blockquote>
<br />
From the <i>Muncie (IN) Star Press </i>of April 27, 1945:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
His name is pronounced Lasj-o-wee, incidentally, with the “a” like the “a” in cat. The accent is on the last syllable. You thoughts it was La-Joy, didn’t ya.</blockquote>
<br />
From the <i>New York Daily News </i>of April 8, 1956:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Baltimore’s Bill Lajoie, the 21-year-old college outfielder, pronounces it La-joy not as old Nap did, Lazhway.</blockquote>
<br />
Did I find references suggesting that luh-joy was the correct pronunciation? Yes, but these were very few and far between.<br />
<br />
Finally, it appears that Nap himself wasn’t particularly concerned about how people pronounced (or mispronounced) his name. In an interview with the <i>Louisville Courier-Journal </i>published on May 11, 1911, Lajoie was quoted as saying, “A poet would have to have a whole kit of rhymes to get any poetry out of my monaker. Down East they called me Lazhwah. In Cleveland they call me La-zhu-way. Out on the circuit its La-joy. Down here in Alexandria, its Mistah Lah-joh-ee. My wife is the only one I know who knows how to pronounce it. She calls me Larry, sometimes real sharp.”<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-37951275631864289942018-10-17T09:14:00.000-04:002018-10-19T15:41:04.436-04:00A Second Look at the Illustrations in "Our National Game"<br />
In early 1887, Liebenroth, Von Auw & Company, publishers of blank books, produced what is now one of the most sought-after of 19th-century baseball collectibles, a scrapbook titled “Our National Game.”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MXj-zYSWosg/W8cr2OW2GnI/AAAAAAAAFHU/E5KTpp4cP_g3yLPvYxRESsGqcmdZ5Jh0ACLcBGAs/s1600/scrapbook.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MXj-zYSWosg/W8cr2OW2GnI/AAAAAAAAFHU/E5KTpp4cP_g3yLPvYxRESsGqcmdZ5Jh0ACLcBGAs/s320/scrapbook.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The earliest notice of the scrapbook can be found in the March 3, 1887 issue of “The American Stationer.”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lhuKOEqnPPo/W8crGc7dj2I/AAAAAAAAFHE/sDtuMFBITKk_ajGBAg_NUcOSbV4B6ydZACLcBGAs/s1600/advertisement-1.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lhuKOEqnPPo/W8crGc7dj2I/AAAAAAAAFHE/sDtuMFBITKk_ajGBAg_NUcOSbV4B6ydZACLcBGAs/s320/advertisement-1.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9PDzrlLWWAg/W8crGWDMXFI/AAAAAAAAFHI/m5AJ2MqVboUVpSBxXSeaTPH8PuRe9nyQgCEwYBhgL/s1600/advertisement-2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9PDzrlLWWAg/W8crGWDMXFI/AAAAAAAAFHI/m5AJ2MqVboUVpSBxXSeaTPH8PuRe9nyQgCEwYBhgL/s320/advertisement-2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The book was apparently produced in two different sizes, 11" × 14" and 12" × 15", and contained around two dozen blank pages. The title page features an illustration of a baseball club, and interspersed throughout the rest of the scrapbook are five additional color lithographs depicting baseball action. Each drawing bears its own title: “Home Run, “Foul Ball,” “Wild Pitch,” “Caught Between Bases,” and “Fly Ball.”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XuF2lVbCfkg/W8cwM8x55aI/AAAAAAAAFHs/6M70i1zVENEk9oGk4kqcaEmghGtbPzUowCLcBGAs/s1600/PIC2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XuF2lVbCfkg/W8cwM8x55aI/AAAAAAAAFHs/6M70i1zVENEk9oGk4kqcaEmghGtbPzUowCLcBGAs/s320/PIC2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zmSk9Bf6m7c/W8cwMmph9YI/AAAAAAAAFHo/MB0qxQxAhTs2mUQsQIch0Ur6BykA_7eagCEwYBhgL/s1600/PIC1.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zmSk9Bf6m7c/W8cwMmph9YI/AAAAAAAAFHo/MB0qxQxAhTs2mUQsQIch0Ur6BykA_7eagCEwYBhgL/s320/PIC1.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fxx08Wj2OmY/W8cwMvMHwPI/AAAAAAAAFHk/GDmWyFh1kp8pJ0Kms78FiDu39bbeovdLACEwYBhgL/s1600/PIC3.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-fxx08Wj2OmY/W8cwMvMHwPI/AAAAAAAAFHk/GDmWyFh1kp8pJ0Kms78FiDu39bbeovdLACEwYBhgL/s320/PIC3.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D4mDOOAqU3s/W8cwM2GqsgI/AAAAAAAAFHw/e-TZ9j0MeqIam1kX4rBy-wd4G6NARLqXwCEwYBhgL/s1600/PIC4.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-D4mDOOAqU3s/W8cwM2GqsgI/AAAAAAAAFHw/e-TZ9j0MeqIam1kX4rBy-wd4G6NARLqXwCEwYBhgL/s320/PIC4.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tjINBfOMCDs/W8cwNCBnozI/AAAAAAAAFH0/b1Qw1Wl-rZE1M6G3tSIFZBBBS8qSW4cLgCEwYBhgL/s1600/PIC5.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-tjINBfOMCDs/W8cwNCBnozI/AAAAAAAAFH0/b1Qw1Wl-rZE1M6G3tSIFZBBBS8qSW4cLgCEwYBhgL/s320/PIC5.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rNwqqixBM1w/W8cwNgl3HVI/AAAAAAAAFH4/RChsibfFVVEygxhARQnHMFG_LCr3vnEKwCEwYBhgL/s1600/PIC6.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rNwqqixBM1w/W8cwNgl3HVI/AAAAAAAAFH4/RChsibfFVVEygxhARQnHMFG_LCr3vnEKwCEwYBhgL/s320/PIC6.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
On April 17, 1887, the day after both the National League and American Association celebrated their season openers, the <i>Brooklyn Daily Eagle</i> made note of the scrapbook:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
A New York publishing firm have [sic] just published a pretty base ball scrap book containing pictures of the base ball grounds at St. George, Staten Island and Washington Park. It is well adapted for baseball picture collections.</blockquote>
The suggestion that the pictures in “Our National Game” depicted actual ballparks was news to me, so I thought I’d take a closer look at the images to see if they really do match up with these ball parks.<br />
<h2>
St. George Grounds, Staten Island</h2>
The St. George Grounds on Staten Island (not to be confused with St. George’s Cricket Grounds in Hoboken, New Jersey) was home to the Metropolitan Club of the old American Association in 1886 and 1887, and was the site of nearly two dozen games for the National League’s New York Giants during the 1889 season. I am aware of only two images of the park. The first is a woodcut published in <i>Harper’s Weekly</i> of May 15, 1886:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-akl2Cw3It8M/W8cwiISMS0I/AAAAAAAAFIM/7eVHIdADPFoAQWa6d3TGb2RoLoO1pDLAQCLcBGAs/s1600/st%2Bgeorge%2Bgrounds%2Bharpers.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-akl2Cw3It8M/W8cwiISMS0I/AAAAAAAAFIM/7eVHIdADPFoAQWa6d3TGb2RoLoO1pDLAQCLcBGAs/s320/st%2Bgeorge%2Bgrounds%2Bharpers.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The second image of the park is an advertisement promoting the park's “Fairyland” concerts, water fireworks, and illuminated geysers for the summer of 1886. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J8xLgfmAIOM/W8cwoj1EQII/AAAAAAAAFIQ/lTW5SfYDB_YfaHEXkxerqEGGkjCg2LicgCLcBGAs/s1600/st%2Bgeorge%2Bgrounds.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J8xLgfmAIOM/W8cwoj1EQII/AAAAAAAAFIQ/lTW5SfYDB_YfaHEXkxerqEGGkjCg2LicgCLcBGAs/s320/st%2Bgeorge%2Bgrounds.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Not only is this latter image simply gorgeous, but in the background one can distinctly see the Statue of Liberty, which would not be officially dedicated until October 28, 1886.<br />
<h2>
Washington Park, Brooklyn</h2>
I discuss Washington Park (the first of a number of ballparks of the same name) in my blog post titled <a href="http://baseballresearcher.blogspot.com/2015/03/there-used-to-be-ballpark-right-here.html" target="_blank">“There Used to Be a Ballpark Right Here - Washington Park.”</a> Home to big league baseball in Brooklyn from 1884 to 1890, the park had a number of distinctive features, two of which are worth pointing out here. One is that the park was located in a deep basin such that the ground just inside the outfield walls sloped up drastically towards the fences at ground level. This unique characteristic can be clearly seen in this illustration from an 1886 baseball board game:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3BByzGyqjg/W8cwy3dsdJI/AAAAAAAAFIU/wvn1har40R0_sKt9N8oAS-drFismKy47gCLcBGAs/s1600/mcloughlin-game-board.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U3BByzGyqjg/W8cwy3dsdJI/AAAAAAAAFIU/wvn1har40R0_sKt9N8oAS-drFismKy47gCLcBGAs/s320/mcloughlin-game-board.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
The other feature of note is that a large archway is visible at the back of the stands, behind and just to the first base side of home plate. It can be seen in the background of this illustration published in the January 24, 1884, issue of <i>Harper's Weekly</i>:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gk2aIlbYPtA/W8cxFj9SbyI/AAAAAAAAFIg/0y2NxFJwyugmfDRkoTEf90Co9g9w4WjAgCLcBGAs/s1600/baseball-on-skates.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gk2aIlbYPtA/W8cxFj9SbyI/AAAAAAAAFIg/0y2NxFJwyugmfDRkoTEf90Co9g9w4WjAgCLcBGAs/s320/baseball-on-skates.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
... and in this photograph taken at the park on May 30, 1887:<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pgWHh2sscdA/W8cxNeRAv2I/AAAAAAAAFIk/JoCqz2qFizYD3GQmlNVPbVPdWN7t09llwCLcBGAs/s1600/brooklynvsst-louis.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pgWHh2sscdA/W8cxNeRAv2I/AAAAAAAAFIk/JoCqz2qFizYD3GQmlNVPbVPdWN7t09llwCLcBGAs/s320/brooklynvsst-louis.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<h2>
Comparing Pictures</h2>
Notice that the scrapbook images titled “Home Run,” “Foul Ball,” and “Wild Pitch” all show ballparks with sloped outfield grounds topped by tall fences. These match quite well with what is seen in the board game illustration of Washington Park. Furthermore, the distinctive arch of Washington Park can be seen in the background of the scrapbook picture titled “Fly Ball.” Clearly these four scrapbook illustrations were based upon Washington Park, though the hills and buildings beyond the fences are assuredly the result of artistic license.<br />
<br />
The scrapbook picture titled “Caught Between Bases” does not show the ground sloping up toward an outfield fence. Instead, there appear to be fans gathered behind a low fence in the outfield. Beyond the low fence there appears to be a stone wall topped by a taller fence. This outfield configuration does not match what we see in the board game illustration of Washington Park. Perhaps, as suggested by the <i>Brooklyn Daily Eagle</i> article, this picture shows the outfield at St. George Grounds? With no known images of the outfield configuration at that park, it is hard to make this claim with any certainty.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-54748333194850463092018-10-12T09:08:00.001-04:002018-10-12T09:08:39.204-04:00Did Babe Ruth Ever Bat Right-Handed?<br />
There have long been rumors that Babe Ruth, one of the greatest left-handed batters of all time, sometimes batted right-handed. Are those stories true? Let’s take a look at the various claims.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBghZeNGAag/W7__aMqsTaI/AAAAAAAAFG4/VNZKtvfSKUcEeiWQ1CjOUg4TcZw4tPysACLcBGAs/s1600/ruth.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eBghZeNGAag/W7__aMqsTaI/AAAAAAAAFG4/VNZKtvfSKUcEeiWQ1CjOUg4TcZw4tPysACLcBGAs/s320/ruth.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">What Babe Ruth might have looked like as a right-handed batter.</span><br />
<h2>
May 21, 1930</h2>
Marshall Smelser, in his 1971 biography of Ruth titled “The Life That Ruth Built,” recounted a story of the Babe batting right-handed on May 21, 1930. As described by the author, the event purportedly took place in the first game of a double-header against the Athletics at Philadelphia’s Shibe Park:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
For the first time in a regular season game he hit three home runs in one game ... and he still had one more time at bat .... When Ruth came up in the ninth he faced the right-handed spitball pitcher Jack Quinn. Outraging reason, Ruth decided to bat right-handed against a right-hander. He took two called strikes in this unfamiliar batter's box, then crossed over to bat left-handed—and struck out.</blockquote>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OhhfAQFGoVQ/W7_62qlnIHI/AAAAAAAAFGM/UaIsNmSl1wUALYWzwE4DhQUwV9_cn0GsgCLcBGAs/s1600/quinn.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OhhfAQFGoVQ/W7_62qlnIHI/AAAAAAAAFGM/UaIsNmSl1wUALYWzwE4DhQUwV9_cn0GsgCLcBGAs/s320/quinn.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Jack Quinn</span><br />
<br />
Alas, the story doesn’t add up.<br />
<br />
First, Jack Quinn didn’t pitch in the ninth inning that day.<br />
<br />
Second, Ruth did not strike out that day, against Quinn or any other pitcher.<br />
<br />
Third, Ruth’s first two homers came in his first two at bats. But his third homer came in his fourth and final at bat, a ninth-inning blast off Lefty Grove. Only in his third at bat (this one occurring against Jack Quinn) did Ruth fail to homer, and <a href="https://www.retrosheet.org/boxesetc/1930/B05211PHA1930.htm" target="_blank">according to Retrosheet.org</a> he flied out to right field.<br />
<br />
Fourth, if Ruth were to bat right-handed, it would make the most sense to do so off a lefty, but of the three pitchers that Ruth faced that day, only the final pitcher (Lefty Grove) was a southpaw. Ruth homered of Grove and there is no mention of him blasting it as a right-handed batter.<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion: False.</b> There is no contemporary evidence that Ruth batted right-handed for any of his at bats that day.<br />
<h2>
Facing Coveleski</h2>
Another story of Ruth batting from the opposite side was retold by Detroit Tigers manager Steve O’Neill in the May 20, 1947, issue of the <i>Boston Globe</i>. “I remember Coveleskie [sic] once giving Babe Ruth four walks in a row in a game. Ruth batted right-handed the last time up, and Coveleskie still walked him.”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4ouPEjri8ow/W7_66z-wAXI/AAAAAAAAFGw/g2agsc6IObQ0sPHgBWJXoijJItgPpfO3wCEwYBhgL/s1600/harrycoveleski.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4ouPEjri8ow/W7_66z-wAXI/AAAAAAAAFGw/g2agsc6IObQ0sPHgBWJXoijJItgPpfO3wCEwYBhgL/s320/harrycoveleski.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Harry Coveleski</span><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfHYG1Gp1Ao/W7_68fGI1EI/AAAAAAAAFGw/lbHGS-g23Mskw81cCERu8oo9LiD45RBVACEwYBhgL/s1600/stancoveleski.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GfHYG1Gp1Ao/W7_68fGI1EI/AAAAAAAAFGw/lbHGS-g23Mskw81cCERu8oo9LiD45RBVACEwYBhgL/s320/stancoveleski.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Stan Coveleski</span><br />
<br />
It is unclear if O’Neill was referring to Harry Coveleski or (more likely) his younger brother Stan, but while Ruth notched four walks in a game a total of 18 times during his career (including once in the 1926 World Series), none involved either of the pitching Coveleski brothers.<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion: False.</b> This claim simply doesn’t add up.<br />
<h2>
Spring Training of 1918</h2>
In his book “Babe Ruth and the 1918 Red Sox,” author Allan Wood states that Ruth batted right-handed against noted southpaw Rube Marquard during a 1918 spring training game between the Red Sox and the Brooklyn Dodgers in Dallas. I contacted Allan and he generously tracked down his research notes which revealed that, according to the <i>Boston Herald-Journal</i> of April 3, 1918, Ruth batted right-handed in his second of three at bats that day.<br />
<br />
I researched this story further and found in numerous contemporaneous sources that Ruth did indeed face Marquard in his first two at bats that day, striking out on both occasions. Furthermore, in the <i>Boston Globe </i>of April 3, 1918, sportswriter Edward Martin reported that “Ruth was not very much in the limelight today, whiffing three times, batting left-handed the second time he took the ozone route.”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IZwJ11fEvYc/W7_66hSU7xI/AAAAAAAAFGo/9WSOXVu_FGEGjpi5a5U1ioVG1Wu5uxTfgCEwYBhgL/s1600/marquard.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IZwJ11fEvYc/W7_66hSU7xI/AAAAAAAAFGo/9WSOXVu_FGEGjpi5a5U1ioVG1Wu5uxTfgCEwYBhgL/s1600/marquard.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Rube Marquard</span><br />
<br />
Besides the fact that the phrase “took the ozone route” is now officially my favorite euphemism for striking out, Martin’s sentence left me a bit confused. Why call out that Ruth batted left-handed his second time up when he was a natural left-handed batter? Indeed, this implies Ruth batted right-handed in his first and third at bats. But if that were the case, it would make more sense to call out Ruth’s right-handed bats: Ruth ... “batting right-handed the first and third times he took the ozone route.” No, I find it much more likely that Martin made a simple mistake and accidentally wrote “left-handed” when he actually meant “right-handed.”<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion: Likely true.</b> Though I’d prefer to have another independent source confirm this claim, I’m inclined to believe that in this spring training game, Ruth did indeed bat right-handed once.<br />
<h2>
August of 1923</h2>
During NBC’s telecast of the 1983 All-Star Game, broadcaster Vin Scully noted that “when Mike Schmidt was a junior in college he batted left-handed and he can still hit balls out of sight left-handed in batting practice, but he has never played a game or swung [left-handed] in a real game.” Scully quickly followed up this anecdote by mentioning “You know, I found out in a trivia book that in 1923 Babe Ruth hit right-handed several times.”<br />
<br />
I tried to track down the trivia book to which Vin Scully was referring, but I couldn’t manage to find it. However, by consulting newspaper accounts of the day, I was able to determine the following:<br />
<br />
On August 1, 1923, the Yankees hosted Cleveland at the newly opened Yankee Stadium. With the visitors leading 5-1 entering the bottom of the ninth, Cleveland lefty Sherry Smith looked to notch his sixth complete game of the season. With one out and New York’s Whitey Witt on second base, Ruth stepped to the plate having gone 0-for-2 with two walks against Smith already that day. Instead of heading to the left-hand batter’s box, however, Ruth decided to switch things up. As reported in the <i>Pittsburgh Daily Post </i>the following day, “His last time up, Babe introduced a new one. He became a right-handed hitter for a moment. He looked over one while standing on the left of the plate, that one a strike. Then he switched back to the trances of his childhood and biffed the first one.” In other words, Ruth took strike one as a right-handed batter, then switched back to the left side and promptly hit a home run.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BlC06K94D50/W7_67lzdkQI/AAAAAAAAFGw/mdV4WUvvYNYv34m6QmAB6n2-2UeEfhdXACEwYBhgL/s1600/smith.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BlC06K94D50/W7_67lzdkQI/AAAAAAAAFGw/mdV4WUvvYNYv34m6QmAB6n2-2UeEfhdXACEwYBhgL/s1600/smith.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sherry Smith</span><br />
<br />
On August 4, numerous newspapers carried a syndicated column under Ruth’s by-line (but undoubtedly penned by a ghost writer) in which the Bambino stated:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
Bases on balls are like so much poison. When Sherrod Smith passed me twice a few days ago when I had an opportunity to get out in front of Harry Heilman [sic] and lead the American league hitters, I did something I had been thinking of ever since [George] Uhle crossed me at Cleveland.<br />
<br />
That’s why I batted right-handed against Smith last week. I wanted him and [Indians manger Tris] Speaker to know exactly how I felt. I’ll never forget what happened as long as I live. It was in the ninth inning. Smith looked at me and stepped out of the pitching box. He thought I was just kidding, but I stayed at the plate as though I would hit right-handed and the Cleveland outfield switches around to play me for a left-field hitter, instead of as they always do.</blockquote>
<blockquote>
Then Smith cuts loose with the first good one he gave me all day—and I let it go. It was a strike and I moved over to the other side of the plate to hit left-handed. Smith was a little upset and the Cleveland outfield moves back toward right field. It was a funny sight. Then Smith gives me another good ball. I don’t know whether it was an accident or not. Anyhow, I hit one of the longest homers I’ve made at our new stadium. And I haven’t stopped laughing yet.</blockquote>
Four days after Ruth’s shenanigans versus Sherry Smith, the Yankees hosted the St. Louis Browns. Ruth got off to a fast start, homering in both the first and sixth innings. With two outs in the bottom of the 11th, runners on first and second, and the score knotted at eight runs apiece, Ruth came to the plate and batted right-handed against Browns right-hander Elam Vangilder. No matter, the Browns intentionally walked Ruth to load the bases. The Browns ploy worked, as Bob Meusel followed the free pass by striking out. Two innings later, the Browns and Vangilder once again found themselves in the exact same situation: Yankees on first and second, two outs, and Ruth at the plate. Again Ruth batted right-handed in an effort to entice St. Louis to pitch to him, but the Browns stuck to their game plan and again gave him an intentional pass. This time, however, the ploy backfired. Meusel singled with the bases full, driving in the winning run and giving the Yankees a 9-8 victory. As the <i>New York Daily News </i>reported the next day, “Babe is getting so weary of walking that he’ll try anything to make the opposition pitch to him. Some day we expect to see him go to bat with the stick in his teeth.”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nyg-OaDq_50/W7_68A_G6eI/AAAAAAAAFGs/haITzEDtBVE4lTOweZzBkuzhxuve7TA8gCEwYBhgL/s1600/vangilder.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Nyg-OaDq_50/W7_68A_G6eI/AAAAAAAAFGs/haITzEDtBVE4lTOweZzBkuzhxuve7TA8gCEwYBhgL/s1600/vangilder.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Elam Vangilder</span><br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion: True.</b> Ruth dabbled with batting right-handed a few times in early August of 1923. In a ninth-inning at bat on August 1st he began as a righty, then promptly switched to the left side before homering. And on August 5th, the Babe batted right-handed twice in extra innings, in each instance taking an intentional pass.<br />
<h2>
June 24, 1927</h2>
I can find only one other confirmed instance in which Ruth batted from the right-handed box. It came during an in-season exhibition game on June 24th, 1927, when the Yankees faced Springfield of the Eastern League. As reported in the <i>New York Times </i>the following day, Ruth “was troubled by a lame ankle, which was caused when he ran out a double in the seventh inning. Incidentally, Babe got his two-bagger while batting right-handed.”<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6gaJ8ZCvdeI/W7_6670PkpI/AAAAAAAAFGw/xQNmGYdx_1MobK9j70LHQ0hmmgeayIZIACEwYBhgL/s1600/page.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6gaJ8ZCvdeI/W7_6670PkpI/AAAAAAAAFGw/xQNmGYdx_1MobK9j70LHQ0hmmgeayIZIACEwYBhgL/s320/page.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Phil Page</span><br />
<br />
The opposing pitcher was likely southpaw Phil Page. The bigger story that day, however, was that the Ruth's favorite bat had been stolen during the contest. The next day the bat was located and soon returned to the Babe.<br />
<br />
<b>Conclusion: Likely true.</b> While I’d like further confirmation, the very direct statement in the <i>New York Times </i>makes it probable that Ruth batted right-handed in an exhibition game on June 24, 1927.<br />
<br />
If you know of any other contemporary references to Babe Ruth batting right-handed (either in a regular season or exhibition game), please alert me by commenting below.<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6055358841733153770.post-1473350890061850512018-09-04T14:01:00.004-04:002023-11-26T15:59:32.786-05:00The Dangers of Collecting Baseball Cards<br />
<i>In the spring of 2018, I was asked by Mark Armour and Chris Dial, the founders and co-chairs of <a href="https://sabr.org/research/baseball-card-history-and-influence-research-committee" target="_blank">SABR's Baseball Card Committee</a>, to give a presentation at their committee meeting as part of the 2018 SABR Convention in Pittsburgh. This is a slightly-updated version of that presentation.</i><br />
<br />
The Dingley Act of 1897, a massive tariff law that was put into effect under the McKinley administration, included a provision that made it illegal for companies to give away coupons (including things such as baseball cards) in packages of tobacco. The exact legalese reads:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
None of the packages of smoking tobacco and fine-cut chewing packages of tobacco and cigarettes prescribed by law shall be permitted to have packed in, or attached to, or connected with, them, any article or thing whatsoever, other than the manufacturers' wrappers and, labels, the internal revenue stamp and the tobacco or cigarettes, respectively, put up therein, on which tax is required to be paid under the internal revenue laws; nor shall there be affixed to, or branded, stamped, marked, written, or printed upon, said packages, or their contents, any promise or offer of, or any order or certificate for, any gift, prize, premium, payment, or reward.</blockquote><p>
Why do this? Because the monopoly known as the American Tobacco Company tried to quash its competition (independent tobacco companies) by giving away goods through this coupon system, something that smaller companies did not have the wherewithal to do.<br />
<br />
This effectively halted the creation of baseball cards until the act was usurped by the Payne-Aldrich Tariff Act of 1909, which removed the ban on tobacco inserts. With this new law, baseball (and other cigarette) cards returned ... and with a vengeance.<br /></p>
Today, well over a century later, the various baseball card sets of 1909-1911 — the sets known as T204, T205, T206, T207, etc. — are prized and celebrated. But, as you might expect, baseball card collecting was also quite popular <i>at that time</i>. What you may not know is that nearly just as popular was the press expressing great concern that baseball card collecting was dangerous. Dangerous to children, dangerous to business owners, and dangerous to society in general.<p></p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYThsTW4i2GbQiBP9wCJlhhTjKgWqNcE9R44BQQ6k1rVJGp_H2NCHvSA4H2q_PusZUJp-1nEL3sh3k6RifGlMvP7QzjfkQxU2V_fhOvvVJcu4kz1fVN5nqO13W4GK5MtFyi3_rreUkz6xQJV9IY0Xil7qK1zxTQVbMlFj-xB7qqXy0jCcZwnTziISv9Ak/s887/dangers-of-card-collecting2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGYThsTW4i2GbQiBP9wCJlhhTjKgWqNcE9R44BQQ6k1rVJGp_H2NCHvSA4H2q_PusZUJp-1nEL3sh3k6RifGlMvP7QzjfkQxU2V_fhOvvVJcu4kz1fVN5nqO13W4GK5MtFyi3_rreUkz6xQJV9IY0Xil7qK1zxTQVbMlFj-xB7qqXy0jCcZwnTziISv9Ak/s320/dangers-of-card-collecting2.jpg" width="400" /></a><p>
<br />
I’ve found dozens of articles detailing dangers (or perceived dangers) of baseball card collecting at and around the time of the return of baseball cards in the 20th century, and these dangers fit into six main categories.<br />
<br />
</p><p></p><h3>
1) Baseball card collecting created a nuisance.</h3>
<br />
From the <i>Washington (DC) Evening Star</i>, June 30, 1912:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GgCKsmONx_U/W43lAZkZxjI/AAAAAAAAFDw/xihQR4ZLqAslJjjwvX_L69fdHucTFJ7YQCLcBGAs/s1600/1.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GgCKsmONx_U/W43lAZkZxjI/AAAAAAAAFDw/xihQR4ZLqAslJjjwvX_L69fdHucTFJ7YQCLcBGAs/s320/1.jpg" width="400" /> </a><br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-soheIU33qJI/W43qcq26U8I/AAAAAAAAFFI/qRy7095lakYRlIHTsRU0LUxWzq5SpINqgCLcBGAs/s1600/boys-at-corner.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-soheIU33qJI/W43qcq26U8I/AAAAAAAAFFI/qRy7095lakYRlIHTsRU0LUxWzq5SpINqgCLcBGAs/s320/boys-at-corner.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
And from the <i>Greenville (SC) News</i>, March 15, 1910:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lh92XfE4zJU/W43lFxqIGpI/AAAAAAAAFD0/gpJdZ0wUH7MYb9WwoeHtC9KHA0xWWyUfACLcBGAs/s1600/2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lh92XfE4zJU/W43lFxqIGpI/AAAAAAAAFD0/gpJdZ0wUH7MYb9WwoeHtC9KHA0xWWyUfACLcBGAs/s320/2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Wagner, Cobb, Evers, Mathewson, Collins ... and Bugs Raymond? Well, Bugs did have a decent season in 1909, but wouldn't you think they'd tab someone a bit more obvious, like Three Finger Brown or Ed Walsh?<br />
<br />
<h3>
2) Baseball card collecting promoted the illegal purchase of cigarettes by minors.</h3>
<br />
According to the <i>Lexington (NC) Dispatch</i>, September 29, 1909:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rz_dkrYcATU/W43lLonFEdI/AAAAAAAAFD4/08RBdZe-1k4sQ_ppg8dlQipXslZye_ehACLcBGAs/s1600/3.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Rz_dkrYcATU/W43lLonFEdI/AAAAAAAAFD4/08RBdZe-1k4sQ_ppg8dlQipXslZye_ehACLcBGAs/s320/3.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<h3>
3) As a consequence of purchasing tobacco, children were enticed to become smokers.</h3>
<br />
This article was published in the <i>Raleigh (NC) News and Observer</i>, August 15, 1909:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qLxAo3IaVGs/W43lRf8jDkI/AAAAAAAAFD8/C681ki8c774SLDv7WfJHRLqXZgGvw6KbwCLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qLxAo3IaVGs/W43lRf8jDkI/AAAAAAAAFD8/C681ki8c774SLDv7WfJHRLqXZgGvw6KbwCLcBGAs/s1600/4.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
"Nude or near-nude picture of a woman?" Perhaps they were thinking of the N166 "Occupations for Women" series? (There were other "tempting bait" series, as well.)<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3_hT1MfavU/W43uDtp67NI/AAAAAAAAFFk/b64f3u5GJdUJMsdsorwmqoO4dawGcVvlQCLcBGAs/s1600/n166.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3_hT1MfavU/W43uDtp67NI/AAAAAAAAFFk/b64f3u5GJdUJMsdsorwmqoO4dawGcVvlQCLcBGAs/s320/n166.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
And this from the <i>Raleigh (NC) Times</i>, August 25, 1909:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOxHXmH0_kE/W43lW9QRLwI/AAAAAAAAFEE/V68I9Kwr3IE_gxaEBAeXLXUPz23XdqdAACLcBGAs/s1600/5.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOxHXmH0_kE/W43lW9QRLwI/AAAAAAAAFEE/V68I9Kwr3IE_gxaEBAeXLXUPz23XdqdAACLcBGAs/s320/5.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A0OzsLPNToo/W43r3-AEPDI/AAAAAAAAFFY/Rp2HSRHJskY3edmMPggm1v3VD8nK8JUKwCLcBGAs/s1600/boys-smoking-2.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-A0OzsLPNToo/W43r3-AEPDI/AAAAAAAAFFY/Rp2HSRHJskY3edmMPggm1v3VD8nK8JUKwCLcBGAs/s320/boys-smoking-2.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<h3>
</h3>
<h3>
4) Baseball card collecting promoted gambling.</h3>
<br />
As published in the <i>Wilmington (DE) Morning </i>News, July 21, 1909:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cufHEXEeoRk/W43lbhHe21I/AAAAAAAAFEI/DAaVI4YwZMYny7yc7k84Xj8xRE7Ajas5wCLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-cufHEXEeoRk/W43lbhHe21I/AAAAAAAAFEI/DAaVI4YwZMYny7yc7k84Xj8xRE7Ajas5wCLcBGAs/s1600/6.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Additionally, according to the <i>Fort Mill (SC) Times</i>, October 21, 1909:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KzpjmQdmhyw/W43lh4a5DgI/AAAAAAAAFEQ/KgfqQDDeLBcNnogpdv2HM8tq5JSbTefEgCLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KzpjmQdmhyw/W43lh4a5DgI/AAAAAAAAFEQ/KgfqQDDeLBcNnogpdv2HM8tq5JSbTefEgCLcBGAs/s1600/7.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-62tFnzRbn-Y/W43uttBKscI/AAAAAAAAFFs/FpCmwX_gdEcKhn9WiuqDaZ20OI7EfhK9gCLcBGAs/s1600/boys-gambling.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-62tFnzRbn-Y/W43uttBKscI/AAAAAAAAFFs/FpCmwX_gdEcKhn9WiuqDaZ20OI7EfhK9gCLcBGAs/s320/boys-gambling.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<h3>
5) Baseball card collecting brought about physical injuries.</h3>
<br />
Read this from the <i>Washington (D.C.) Post</i>, May 8, 1910:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-31ApM2axvsM/W43pkbzWtFI/AAAAAAAAFEk/tReymQZMJs8_ACgEUoatkDCVw8H0pzrhACLcBGAs/s1600/8.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-31ApM2axvsM/W43pkbzWtFI/AAAAAAAAFEk/tReymQZMJs8_ACgEUoatkDCVw8H0pzrhACLcBGAs/s320/8.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
<h3>
6) And, thanks to baseball card collecting, children became criminals.</h3>
<br />
The <i>Los Angeles (CA) Times</i>, August 10, 1911 wrote:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KPCjGBT5Kf4/W43prJQhU1I/AAAAAAAAFEo/6L8dUFn2qnoZsd9RnBM10aCNtj1FVhDgwCLcBGAs/s1600/9.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-KPCjGBT5Kf4/W43prJQhU1I/AAAAAAAAFEo/6L8dUFn2qnoZsd9RnBM10aCNtj1FVhDgwCLcBGAs/s320/9.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
This report appeared in the <i>Winston-Salem (NC) Twin-City Daily Sentinel</i>, August 6, 1909:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySXm4ZOOr-E/W43pz_lWGpI/AAAAAAAAFEs/x6gCX15J6tUblBaipMOQqZ8Kz_9t4VD0gCLcBGAs/s1600/10.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ySXm4ZOOr-E/W43pz_lWGpI/AAAAAAAAFEs/x6gCX15J6tUblBaipMOQqZ8Kz_9t4VD0gCLcBGAs/s1600/10.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
Finally, the <i>Wilson (NC) Daily Times</i>, August 23, 1910 reported:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PWCMZYEwhdI/W43p4VNAJEI/AAAAAAAAFE0/K1WcadC6G2YOqRQEb_n6Gos9m90I55A_gCLcBGAs/s1600/11.jpg"><img border="0" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PWCMZYEwhdI/W43p4VNAJEI/AAAAAAAAFE0/K1WcadC6G2YOqRQEb_n6Gos9m90I55A_gCLcBGAs/s320/11.jpg" width="400" /></a><br />
<br />
In doing this research, I found these complaints about card collecting in numerous newspapers during the period of 1909 through 1912, with most occurring in 1909 and 1910. It seems that by 1911, the furor over the evils of baseball card collecting had subsided considerably. Additionally, the majority of newspapers that railed against the practice were based in major tobacco-producing states, particularly North and South Carolina.<br />
<br /><p></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3