This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 6/5/2007
The Pittsburgh Alleghenys joined the National League in 1887, playing and winning their first game 6-2 over the Chicago White Stockings. The nickname “Pirates” was hung on the club in 1891 after they were accused of hijacking a player under contract to the Philadelphia Athletics. In 1888 the Alleghenys played their home games at Recreation Park where 112,000 fans witnessed their team finish the season with a .493 winning percentage. This large original photograph features the 1888 Pittsburgh Alleghenys team posed in their uniforms. The image clarity is such that you feel as though you are peering through a window in time. Hall of Fame players include; outfielder Ed Hanlon, first baseman Jake “Eagle Eye” Beckley and pitcher Pud “The Little Steam Engine” Galvin. On July 13, 1888, Pud Galvin and Harry Staley became the first pitchers ever to combine for a double-header shutout after blanking Boston 4-0 and 6-0. All of the individuals pictured are identified on the bottom portion of the period matting. The outstanding overall visual appeal of the image is not affected by a few areas of chipping and a three-inch “U” shaped crack near the batboy. There is slight toning on the left portion of the photograph. On the top left corner of the photograph is the printed inscription, “B F H Rives No 74.” This image appears to be in it original frame. Image area measures 20 3/4" by 17".
Estimate: $6,000-8,000