Auction Item Details
Lot 1198
LOADING IMAGES
Lot Number: 1198
Description: January 17, 1878 Harry Wright auto. handwritten letter. Dated letter on the front and back of a piece of Boston Base Ball Association stationary in response to a January 4, 1878 letter received by Wright from Sprague. Content is significant regarding newly adopted rules of the National League that came out of the December 1876 League conference in Cleveland in which the number of games played between League teams was increased, but decreased for non-league teams. In addition, two teams (Philadelphia and New York) were expelled from the National League. Presumably Sprague was complaining to Wright about the new rules as it surely meant less playing time for the Buffalo team against NL opponents and thusly less revenue. Some excerpts include, "The resolutions adopted at Cleveland were prompted by experience and with the determination to improve the class of games that should be played by League nines." ; "There had been too many games played and the playing too indiscriminate."; "To reduce the number of games it was decided to play none but League games on League grounds..."; and "I think a more definite knowledge and calm consideration of the subject in all its bearings, will tend to remove all feeling of antagonism." Letter is signed on the back, "Yours Very Respectfully Harry Wright." Poignant letter detailing the turmoil present during the formative years of professional baseball in America. Letter has some light soiling on the back, signature rates 7 out of 10. Includes LOA from PSA/DNA J.Spence-S.Grad: EX-EX/MT
Estimated Price: ($4,000.00-$6,000.00)
Sold for Price: Login or Register
