Opening Day Auction 2014
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/26/2014
Offered is an unusual 9 1/2" x 7 3/4" original photograph from what we believe to be the 1870's depicting travelling circus and minstrel performers within a baseball theme. The performers are all posed on a baseball field with the grandstand clearly visible in the background. Of the 35 performers, 10 are in blackface, a couple is in Civil War duds, a few in baseball regalia and the some of the men are dressed in women's clothing. The Civil War uniforms give us the indication this is likely a decade or so after the war ended. There is also an "Uncle Sam" with full stars and stripes indicating the probable 4th of July "Independence Day" celebration. The grandstand is standing room only, with all patrons dressed in their Sunday best. The performers were likely entertaining the crowd before the local "nine" took on a neighboring ballclub for area bragging rights. The photograph is encased in a very ornate, original gold colored wooden recessed frame with original glass. The condition of the photo is EX/MT with a small 1 1/2" crease along the left edge. A couple of light chips and corner crimps do not detract from the beauty of this photograph. A tremendous photo which includes two of our country's greatest events: our nation's independence and the game of baseball.