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Calling all cranks, rooters & bugs ~ Vintage Baseball Day in Newbury

Posted on 30. May, 2010 by Ryan Szepan in Sports

It was a perfect setting for baseball. Spencer-Pierce Little farm located in Newbury, Massachusetts was the scene for a triple header featuring the Essex Baseball Club, Lynn Live Oaks, Dirigo BBC of Augusta Maine
and the Ipswich Brewers. In this 19th century vintage baseball league these teams play by 1861 rules.

A panoramic of the ball field at Spencer-Pierce Little Farm in Newbury Massachusetts. For a larger look check out the soon to be available print.

The hurler (pitcher) throws underhand from 45 feet, as opposed to the 60 ft 6 in that pitchers today throw from.

Under these rules there is no strike zone and the batter is allowed to take as many pitches as they see fit.

A “foul tick”, more commonly know today as a foul ball.

The “Behind” (catcher), “Striker” (batter), and “Hurler” (pitcher) watch as a “Cloud Hunter” (fly ball) is hit.

The left fielder awaits in “The Garden”, which was the expression when referring to the outfield. No gloves were allowed  and an out was recorded  if the ball is caught on the first bound or in the fly.

“Well struck sir” was the common phrase for a nice hit.

A view from the “Bull Pen” (spectator area) where all of the “Cranks, Rooters, and “Bugs” (all names referring to fans) at the Spencer-Pierce Little Farm sit.

“Well hurled” was an expression used when a pitcher tossed a nice pitch.

The great thing about games at the farm is that you never know who will roam the field and want to join the team.

A close play at home base, which back then was a one foot diameter iron plate.

Want to see more? Check out the extended gallery where you can see more of the game, also in color. To check out a game in person check out the Essex Baseball Club website for a complete schedule.

Tags: baseball vintage