WHAT IS VINTAGE BASE BALL? 

Vintage base ball (yes, it was two words in the 19th Century) is a loose term for baseball played by the rules, in the uniforms, and with the philosophy of the 1800's. Depending on the year played, the rules can change dramatically: for example, in the 1860's, pitchers threw underhand and a ball caught on one hop was an out. Regardless of year, only the catcher wears a glove in most vintage games. 

Vintage base ball (spelled more often as two words until 1896) is a loose term for amateur baseball played by the various rules, customs, and equipment of the 1800's. Men and women play with wooden bats and no gloves (in some cases) and period accurate attire to replicate the game as it was played during its formative years.

To wit: Games are competitive, yet collegial. There is no "World Series" or league standings, although regional rivalries abound. The Delaware County Vintage Base Ball Association contains three sets of brothers. The umpire is always address as "Sir."

At its core, the vintage game is a chance for local ballplayers and their families to gather for an afternoon of community and competition in the sunshine. We leave the rest--the egos, names on jerseys, and charging for admission--to the professionals.