Search Results for: st. ann

John McGraw and St. Ann’s Catholic Church, Baltimore

By on September 11, 2012

Three miles north of Oriole Park at Camden Yards, at the intersection of Greenmount Avenue and East 22nd Street, is St. Ann’s Roman Catholic Church.

St. Ann's Catholic Church, Baltimore, Maryland

The church is forever tied to Baltimore baseball history as the place where former Oriole and baseball Hall of Famer John McGraw married his second wife, Blanche Sindall, on January 8, 1902.

Interior View of St. Ann's Church Where John McGraw Married Blanche Sindall

St. Ann’s plays a prominent role in two of the latter chapters of my book Deadball, A Metaphysical Baseball Novel. However, in the interest of not spoiling the the story line, I will leave it at that. For those of you who already have read my book, here is a look at the church described in Deadball.

The Gothic-revival church is constructed of grey stone and white marble.

Side View of St. Ann's Church

The church has two steeples, one soaring high above the church to the right of the front entrance and a second, of lesser height, behind and to the left of the entrance.

The Two Steeples of St. Ann's Church

A pointed stone archway made of alternating blocks of marble and stone frames a set of red painted doors decorated with ornate iron hinges. A simple, yet elegant rose window, framed by a similar stone archway centered above the entrance adds an understated flourish to the front of the church.

Front Entrance to St. Ann's Church

The white plastic lettering of the church’s marquee sign next to the sidewalk announces that the church is “Anchored In Faith.”

Marquee Sign, St. Ann's Church

The reference to “anchored” is a pun, for resting alongside the cornerstone to the right of the entrance way is a large, gold-painted, allegorical anchor once belonging to Captain William Kennedy.

Captain William Kennedy's Anchor

Commander of the Baltimore clipper ship “The Wanderer,” Kennedy prayed for safe return when caught in a storm off the coast of Vera Cruz. He promised to build a church should his prayers be answered. They were, and Kennedy kept his promise, providing the land and money to build St. Ann’s. The good Captain is buried beneath the main floor of the church, along with his wife, both of whom died in 1873, the year the church was built.

Final Resting Place of Captain William Kennedy and his Wife

Behind the church on East 22nd Street is the rectory.

St. Ann's Rectory - The Anchorage

Next door to the rectory is  a three story tan brick row house with a first floor stone. It is the former home of Oriole Hall of Famer Joe Kelley.

Former Home of Hall of Famer Joe Kelley

Joe Kelley and several of McGraw’s teammates were in attendance at his wedding that day, including Wilbert Robinson, Willie Keeler, Steve Brodie, and Hughie Jennings.

Willie Keeler, John McGraw, Joe Kelley, and Hughie Jennings

In her memoir The Real McGraw, Blanche McGraw noted that St. Ann’s was overflowing with people for the 6 pm wedding, which was conducted by St. Ann’s Pastor, Father Cornelius Thomas, who himself was a big baseball fan.

A “church of baseball” or at least a “church with a baseball connection,” St. Ann’s can be visited on the web at anchoredinfaith.com.

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Babe Ruth’s Band At St. Mary’s Industrial School For Boys

By on February 27, 2016

In February 1914, George Herman “Babe” Ruth signed his first professional baseball contract in the office of Brother Paul Scanlon, the Superintendent of St. Mary’s Industrial School for Boys. Babe Ruth’s parents had signed their son over to the Xaverian Brothers when he was eight years old and Brother Paul, as superintendent of the school and Ruth’s legal guardian, was required to sign the player contract on his behalf. Present at the signing that day, in addition to Ruth and Brother Paul, were Jack Dunn, owner of the International League Baltimore Orioles, and Brother Gilbert, the Athletic Director at nearby Mount St. Joseph’s (High School) College (he was a friend of Dunn’s). Prior to that meeting, Dunn and Brother Gilbert had introduced Dunn to Brother Matthias Boutlier (or Boutelier), who was instrumental in helping Ruth develop his baseball skills. Ruth’s contract set his salary at $600 for the season.

Former Site of St. Mary's Industrial School and Babe Ruth Field, Baltimore, Maryland, April 2015

Former Site of St. Mary’s Industrial School and Babe Ruth Field, Baltimore, Maryland, April 2015

The Baltimore Sun reported the signing on February 15, 1914:”[t]he Oriole magnate signed another local player yesterday. The new Bird is George H. Ruth, a pitcher, who played with teams out the Frederick road. Ruth is six feet tall and fanned 22 men in an amateur game last season. He is regarded as a very hard hitter, so Dunn will try him out down South.” On March 2, 1914, prior to Ruth’s departure for Fayetteville, North Carolina, where Dunn’s Orioles held spring training, Brother Paul took Ruth on a tear-filled tour of St. Mary’s so that Ruth could say goodbye to his friends at the school. Brother Paul then accompanied Ruth to Union Station in Baltimore, where he departed for North Carolina, on what was the first of Ruth’s many train rides.

The Famous Bands Of St. Mary's Industrial School, Postcard (T & M Ottenheimer, Baltimore)

The Famous Bands Of St. Mary’s Industrial School, Postcard (T & M Ottenheimer, Baltimore)

Although Ruth later would become the most famous export of St. Mary’s Industrial School, at the time of his departure, it was the St. Mary’s Bands that perhaps had brought the school the most fame in Baltimore and around the country (John Phillips Sousa is said to have stated that St. Mary’s was the best high school band he had ever heard).

St. Mary's Industrial School Souvenir Program, Annual Concert, April 24, 1914 Image Huggins and Scott Auctions)

St. Mary’s Industrial School Souvenir Program, Annual Concert, April 24, 1914 Image (Huggins and Scott Auctions)

On April 24, 1914, just a month and a half after Ruth departed the school, St. Mary’s held its Annual Concert. Included in the school program was a now-famous photo of Ruth and his teammates, who in 1914 were league champions (according to the photo). The photo depicts the team grouped in front of the school’s bandstand or gazebo. Exactly five years to the day after that concert was performed, a fire started by a errant piece of coal destroyed most of the buildings at St. Mary’s.

St. Mary's Industrial School Baseball Team Photo 1914 (Image Huggins and Scott Auctions)

St. Mary’s Industrial School Baseball Team Photo 1914 (Image Huggins and Scott Auctions)

The fire destroyed the main school building, although the chapel that sat at the corner of South Caton Avenue and Wilkins Avenue was spared.

St. Mary's Industrial School in 1919, After the Fire (Photo by Hildegarde Anderson of 3236 Ravenswood Avenue, Baltimore Sun Reprint of Hildegarde photo, 1962).

St. Mary’s Industrial School in 1919, After the Fire (Photo by Hildegarde Anderson of 3236 Ravenswood Avenue, Baltimore Sun Reprint of Hildegarde photo, 1962).

At the time of the devastating fire, Ruth was a member of the New York Yankees and well on his way to becoming a baseball legend. When Ruth learned of the fire he was determined to find a way to rebuild the school. Although it is not clear who’s idea it was, Ruth helped the school raise money through a tour by the St. Mary’s Industrial School Band. Brother John Sterne, who as an adolescent attended St. Mary’s, played in the band on that tour and years later recounted the event: “[d]uring the last road trip of the 1920 season, Babe sponsored the St. Mary’s Band to travel with the Yankees as ‘Babe Ruth’s Boys Band.’ Giving concerts at the ball parks before the game, the boys would later circulate among the patrons, collecting change and bills in their sailor hats. Not only was a goodly sum of cash received, but the free publicity was invaluable. By this effort, the Babe gave much back to his alma mater, of which he was always proud.” Cairnes, Phillip F. (Brother Gilbert), Young Babe Ruth, His Early Life and Baseball Career, From the Memoirs Of A Xaverian Brother, McFarland 1999, p. 11.

St. Mary's Industrial School Private Mailing Card, Featuring Babe Ruth's Band

St. Mary’s Industrial School Private Mailing Card, Featuring Babe Ruth’s Band

Brother Paul, who was school superintendent at the time of the fire, accompanied the St. Mary’s Band on that trip. As part of St. Mary’s efforts to raise funds, the school produced a Private Mailing Card that pictures the St. Mary’s Band near the baseball field where Ruth once played. The bandstand, where Ruth posed for the 1914 team photo, is visible in the background of the card as well.

Reverse Of St. Mary's Industrial School Private Mailing Card, Featuring Babe Ruth's Band

Reverse Of St. Mary’s Industrial School Private Mailing Card, Featuring Babe Ruth’s Band

The reverse of the Private Mailing Card includes a printed acknowledgement from Brother Paul, thanking patrons for contributing funds for rebuilding the school. One example of that card, which is pictured above, has a personal note from Brother Paul dated March 3, 1921, thanking “Miss Cramer” for a one dollar donation. Brother Paul adds, “Shall have our little boys pray for your intention. May God bless you.” Brother Paul remained at St. Mary’s until 1925, and three years later was named Superior General of the Xaverian order.

Newspaper Enterprise Association Photo of St. Mary's Industrial School, Baltimore, Maryland, August 17, 1948

Newspaper Enterprise Association Photo of St. Mary’s Industrial School, Baltimore, Maryland, August 17, 1948

With the help of Ruth the school was rebuilt and continued to serve wayward boys of Baltimore another 30 years. On August 16, 1948, Ruth died in New York City and at St. Mary’s the following day, a special prayer service was held for Ruth at the school’s chapel. A NEA wire photo captures the moment. The photo’s description, set forth on the back of the photo, states: “BALTIMORE, MD. — Sorrowful boys at St. Mary’s Industrial School kneel at the altar in the school’s chapel for morning prayers after they were informed that Babe Ruth, a graduate of the institution and one of its greatest benefactors, had died. In center is Brother Herbert who taught at the school when Babe Ruth attended. At extreme right is Brother Charles, superintendent of the school.”

Newspaper Enterprise Association Photo Description of August 17, 1948 St. Mary's Industrial School Photo

Newspaper Enterprise Association Description of August 17, 1948 Photo, St. Mary’s Industrial School

St. Mary’s Industrial School closed in 1950, and the facility later was reopened as Cardinal Gibbons High School (as an aside, it was Cardinal Gibbons who performed Ruth’s Sacrament of Confirmation at St. Mary’s in 1907). Cardinal Gibbons High School closed in 2010. The property is now being redeveloped by St. Agnes Hospital. It is perhaps fitting that, once Babe Ruth died, the school that helped make him who he was, was shuttered as well. Newspaper accounts do not mention whether Babe Ruth’s Band played one last time in his honor the day he passed.

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John McGraw’s and Wilbert Robinson’s Former Baltimore Homes Damaged By Fire

By on February 28, 2015

Chances are most people who live in the 2700 block of St. Paul Street in Baltimore, Maryland, have no idea that the two houses on their block that caught on fire on February 7th were once owned by two future baseball Hall of Famers, John McGraw and Wilbert Robinson.

2700 Block of St. Paul Street in Baltimore, Maryland. Where Wilbert Robertson and John McGraw Once Lived

2700 Block of St. Paul Street in Baltimore, Maryland. Where Wilbert Robinson and John McGraw Once Lived

McGraw and Robinson lived next door to each other at 2738 (McGraw) and 2740 (Robinson) St. Paul Street.

2738 and 2740 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland. Where Wilbert Robertson and John McGraw Once Lived

2738 and 2740 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland. Where John McGraw and Wilbert Robinson Once Lived

Both McGraw and Robinson played for the world champion Baltimore Orioles of the 1890s, when the team was a National League affiliate.Both players also were partners in the Diamond Cafe, located just two miles south of their homes, at 519 Howard Street in Baltimore. The Diamond is considered one of the first sports bar in the country.

Baltimore Orioles, 1897, John McGraw at bottom left (laying down) and Wilbert Robertson second row, third from right

Baltimore Orioles, 1897, John McGraw, at bottom left (laying down) and Wilbert Robinson, second row, third from right

Robertson bought his house at 2738 St. Paul Street in 1898. McGraw bought the adjoining house at 2740 that same year. Robinson lived in the house with his wife and children. McGraw lived next door with his first wife, the former Minnie Doyle, and McGraw’s brother Mike. See The Real McGraw, by Mrs. John J. McGraw (p 112), The houses were located only two blocks north and four blocks east of the Orioles home ballpark, Union Park.

Rear of Row Houses at 2740 and 2738 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland. Former Homes of Wilbert Robertson and John McGraw.

Rear of Row Houses at 2740 and 2738 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland. Former Homes of Wilbert Robinson and John McGraw.

On February 7, 2015, a fire broke out in one of the homes and quickly spread to the other. Five people, including two children were injured in the blaze, although none appeared to be life threatening. Robertson’s home at 2740 St. Paul Street sustained the bulk of the damage. All of its front windows have been boarded up and the city has condemned the property because of the damage.

Fire Damaged House at 2740 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland, Former Home of Wilbert Robertson.

Fire Damaged House at 2740 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland, Former Home of Wilbert Robinson.

2740 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Circa 2013

Before the FIre, 2740 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Circa 2013

Hopefully both buildings can be saved and restored. Although neither house is listed on any historic register, they should be given their connection to two Baltimore’s greatest baseball players.

Fire Damage To 2740 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland, Forrmer House of Wilbert Robertson

Fire Damage To 2740 St. Paul Street, Baltimore, Maryland, Forrmer House of Wilbert Robinson

Several other homes of former National League Orioles Hall of Famers still stand in Baltimore City. These include Joe Kelley’s former home at 530 East 22nd Street, which is located next to St. Ann’s Catholic Church, where John McGraw married his second wife Blanche Sindall, on January 8, 1902.

Former Home of Joe Kelley

530 E 22nd Street, Baltimore, Maryland (three story tan brick row house). Former Home of Hall of Famer Joe Kelley

A former boarding house where John McGraw and Hughie Jennings both lived also still stands, at 12 West 24th Street (just six blocks west of Union Park’s former site).

Former Boarding House at 12 West 24th Street , Baltimore, Maryland, Where John McGraw and Hughie Jennings Once Roomed

Former Boarding House at 12 West 24th Street , Baltimore, Maryland, Where John McGraw and Hughie Jennings Once Roomed

Another house where Jennings once lived also still stands, but just barely, at 529 East 23rd Street.

529 East 23rd Street, Baltimore, Maryland, Former Home of Hughie Jennings

529 East 23rd Street, Baltimore, Maryland, Former Home of Hughie Jennings

As Joni Mitchell once famously sang, “you don’t know what you’ve got ’till it’s gone.”

Willie Keeler, John McGraw, Joe Kelley, and Hughie Jennings

Former Orioles and Baseball Hall of Famers Willie Keeler, John McGraw, Joe Kelley, and Hughie Jennings

The past, as seen through these buildings, is with us today. Like Al Kaline’s boyhood home, these buildings are an important part of Baltimore’s history. They should be preserved and their history celebrated. Unfortunately, the passage of time and a lack of vision have  a way of allowing structures like these to slip away.

Thanks to local Baltimore baseball historian Ken Mars for contacting me about the fire.

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The 500 Block of North Howard Street and The Diamond Cafe – Baltimore’s First Sports Bar

By on April 9, 2019

Thirty years ago this April, the City of Baltimore tore down a three-story brick structure at 519 North Howard Street. It was demolished along with the rest of the east side of the 500 block of North Howard Street in an attempt to spruce up a portion of the decaying, former theatrical and shopping district. Redevelopment would come soon, or so the city thought. It did not, and, in the process, Baltimore wiped away a building that once housed an important part of the city’s history.

The 500 Block of North Howard Street Looking Southeast, Demolished in 1989 and a Parking Lot Ever Since

 

The 500 Block of North Howard Street Looking Northeast, Demolished in 1989

From 1897 to 1915, the building at 519 North Howard housed the Diamond Cafe -the brainchild of future baseball Hall of Famers John J. McGraw and Wilbert Robinson, then both members of the National League Baltimore Orioles. The Diamond Cafe is believed to be Baltimore’s first sports bar.

519 North Howard Street, Circa 1967, Baltimore, Maryland (photo courtesy of Thomas Paul – kilduffs.com)

At the time, the National League Orioles were at the height of their success and fame, having won their third consecutive National League Pennant in the Fall of 1896. McGraw and Robinson were next door neighbors and lived on the 2700 block of St. Paul Street, less than two miles north of the Diamond Cafe.

The National League Baltimore Orioles

Locating the Diamond Cafe on North Howard Street was a smart business move. From Centre Street to the north, and Lexington Street to the south, North Howard Street was one of Baltimore’s finest shopping districts.

Howard Street Looking North of Lexington Street, Baltimore, Maryland, Circa 1907 (Postcard publisher unknown)

Anchored by Lexington Market to the west, North Howard Street boasted department stores such as Hutzler’s, Hochschild Kohn’s, and Hecht’s.

Howard Street, North from Lexington Street, Baltimore, Maryland, Circa 1912 (Postcard published by I & M Ottenheimer)

At the intersection of Franklin Street and North Howard Street was Baltimore’s Theatrical District, which included some of the city’s finest theaters. The Diamond Cafe was located right in the middle of that block opposite several theaters.

Howard and Franklin Streets, Theatrical District, Baltimore, Maryland, Circa 1930 (postcard no. 7091, publisher unknown)

The Kernans Hotel and Maryland Theatre sat at the southwest corner of North Howard Street and Franklin Street.

Franklin Street, Looking West from Howard Street, showing Kernans Hotel and Maryland Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland Circa 1911 (postcard published by Baltimore Stationary Company).

The building that housed the Kernans Hotel still stands to this day. In the photograph below, the Maryland Theatre is shown as well, although that building was demolished by the city in 2017.

Franklin Street Looking West from Howard Street showing former Kernans Hotel and Maryland Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland (February 3, 2016).

The Auditorium Theater at 506 North Howard, later renamed the Mayfair Theater, was constructed in 1904. Previously, another theater building occupied the site.

Auditorium Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, Circa 1904 (postcard published by I & M Ottehnheimer)

The Mayfair closed in 1986, but somehow the structure still remains to this day, even after being damaged by a fire a few years ago.

The Former Mayfair Theater, 506 North Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland

 

North Howard Street Looking South from Former Mayfair Theater, Baltimore, Maryland

Hope remains that the former Mayfair Theater will be restored or repurposed, rather than have it meet the same fate so many of its contemporaries have met.

Detail of the Former Mayfair Theater, 506 North Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland

 

Detail of the Former Mayfair Theater, 506 North Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland

In a vacant lot to the right of the former Mayfair Theater once stood the Academy of Music at 516 North Howard, which was directly across the street from 519 North Howard.

Interior of the Academy of Music, Frank Leslie’s Illustrated Newspaper, April 3, 1890

The Academy of Music was constructed in 1875 and demolished 50 years later to make way for the Stanley Crandall Theater in 1927.

500 Block of North Howard Street (even numbers) February 3, 2016.

The Stanley Theater was demolished in 1965 and the site has been a parking lot ever since.

Former Site of the Academy of Music and the Stanley Theater, North Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland.

At the southwest corner of North Howard Street and Centre Street is the former site of Baltimore City College.

City College, Baltimore, Maryland, Circa 1920 (postcard published by the Chessler Co.)

The building still stands and, from the outside, appears much as it did when it was a college.

The Former City College Building, Baltimore, Maryland

The building now houses the Chesapeake Commons Apartments.

Chesapeake Commons Apartments Located at the old City College, Baltimore, Maryland

 

Detail of the Baltimore City College Building, Baltimore, Maryland

According to accounts in the Baltimore Sun, as early as 1885, W.H. Beach operated an establishment at 519 North Howard known as Beach’s Restaurant or Beach’s Hall. Beach leased his restaurant for use by the Cribb Club, which boasted the famous bare-knuckle fighter Jake Kilrain as an instructor who taught the art of self-defense and held sparring exhibitions. Beach was a friend of Kilrain’s and Beach adorned his restaurant with pictures of the pugilist in action. Kilrain would return to Beach’s Restaurant in 1889 after his fighting days were over, and again March 1894, where he refereed three boxing contests at Beach’s Hall. The second of the three sparring sets featured Joseph Brown, brother of Baltimore Orioles pitcher Stub Brown.

Beach’s Restaurant also hosted political meetings such as the Thom Democratic Association of the 11th Ward which was organized at Beach’s Hall in September 1889, and the German-American Democratic Club of the 11th Ward, which held a mass meeting in October 1889. In October 1892, the Neptune Boat Club organized the Neptune Club’s Foot-Ball Team at Beach’s Restaurant with J.W. Dawson Jr. elected as Manager and D.J. Hauer as Captain.

In December 1896, Beach put the stock and fixtures of his saloon up for sale, and that following February, McGraw and Robinson leased the building. When the Diamond Cafe opened in 1897, it included elegant bowling and billiard parlors, and a gymnasium. Four steel bowling alleys  were located in the rear of the first floor and billiards were located on the second floor. In 1898, additional bowling alleys were installed on the second floor, a reflection of the growing popularity of the sport. Legend has it that the used, splintered bowling pins at the Diamond Cafe were shaved down and used for duck pin bowling. City bowling leagues were formed at the Diamond Cafe, and city bowling championships were played there.

Baseball fans filled the Diamond Cafe to be near their idols and hear their stories while dining on cold cuts and crab cakes.  In October 1901, Joe “Iron Man” McGinnity, a member of the American League Baltimore Orioles in 1901 and 1902, built a shooting gallery on a lot adjoining the Diamond Cafe.

National League Baltimore Orioles Scorecard 1899 Season Advertising the Diamond Cafe

In July 1902, McGraw sold his interest in the Diamond Cafe to Robinson, just prior to McGraw’s departure from Baltimore and subsequent move to New York City, where he assumed the reigns as manager of the New York Giants. Robinson’s playing days ended after the 1902 season, but he continued to operate the Diamond another 10 years while also working as a pitching coach for McGraw’s New York Giants.

John McGraw as Manager of the New York Giants and Wilbert Robinson as Manager of the Brooklyn Robins (Library of Congress, Prints &  Photographs)

In May 1906, a fire damaged the second and third floors of 519 North Howard, but Robinson rebuilt the Diamond, and in 1912, Robinson purchased property adjoining the Diamond with thoughts of tearing down the adjoining building and constructing a five story hotel structure on that site, adding also an additional two stories to 519 North Howard. The Diamond, like Beach’s Hall before it, also held private events and political rallies during this time. For example, in October 1912, Samuel Gompers, President of the American Federation of Labor, attended a cigar makers banquet held at the Diamond.

The 500 Block of North Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland. 519 North Howard is the Three-Story, Flat-Roofed Building with Three Windows Across (photo courtesy of Thomas Paul – kilduffs.com)

In January 1913, Robinson decided to devote more of his time to the upcoming baseball season and he sold his interest in the Diamond to Saloon Keeper August Wagener. Robinson vowed he would one day return to Baltimore to open a hotel. However, in 1914, Robinson became manager of the National League’s Brooklyn franchise and any thought of returning to Baltimore faded. Wagener’s ownership of the Diamond was short-lived and May 1915, the Diamond was put up for sale. In August 1915, Wagener filed for bankruptcy, and in October 1916, E. T. Newell & Company, Auctioneers, leased 519 North Howard from the Beach Estate, turning the Diamond Cafe into a three story warehouse.

In September 1927, Paul Caplan Company, Auctioneers, took over the lease, staying until September 1932. The National Furniture Company leased the building up until 1936, and from that point on, a variety of shops and business occupied some or all of the building, including the The Hub Piano Company in 1940 (featuring the “most complete stock of Victor and Blue Bird Records in Baltimore” (Baltimore Sun Feb. 1940)), the Carla School of Dance in 1944 (“Baltimore’s newest toe ballet studio for children and adult” (Baltimore Sun, Sept. 1944)), the Radio and Record Bar from 1945 to 1948, the Trustworthy Christian Books and Accessories Store in 1956, and the R.L. Polk Co. City Directory in 1961 and 1962.

There exists no known photograph of the Diamond Cafe, taken either inside or out. For some Baltimore baseball history enthusiasts, it is considered the Holy Grail of Baltimore sports-related photographs. The earliest known photograph of the building dates to 1924 and was published in James H. Bready’s book, The Home Team, showing only a corner of the building and the south-facing side wall advertising Newell’s Auctioneers. The photograph of the block below was taken in 1967 and is reproduced here courtesy of the wonderful Baltimore history website, kilduffs.com.

The 500 Block of North Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland. 519 North Howard is the Three-Story, Flat-Roofed Building with Three Windows Across (photo courtesy of Thomas Paul – kilduffs.com)

An asphalt parking lot currently adorns the spot where the Diamond once stood, perhaps encapsulating the remnants of the building’s former cellar.

Former Site of 519 North Howard Street, Baltimore, Maryland

At some point in time, perhaps soon, redevelopment of the 500 block of North Howard Street will come to pass. When it does, care should be taken first to excavate the site to recover whatever can be saved of the former site of the Diamond Cafe. Perhaps buried amongst the debris beneath the asphalt are remnants of Baltimore’s baseball history or perhaps a portion of the Diamond’s steel bowling alleys. Redevelopment presents a rare opportunity to reverse, in at least a small way, the unfortunate decision 30 years ago that destroyed an important part of Baltimore’s history. Whatever historical artifacts still exist at the site should be investigated, understood, and, in some manner, preserved.

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Celebrating Washington County Heritage With The Hagerstown Suns

By on June 19, 2015

This Saturday Night, June 20th, the Hagerstown Suns are holding “Washington County Baseball Heritage Night,” as part of the Suns’ 35th Anniversary celebration at Municipal Stadium.

Looking Forward To Heading Back to Hagerstown

Looking Forward to Heading Back to Municipal Stadium in Hagerstown, Maryland

I am honored to be participating in a book signing during the game, along with local authors Bob Savitt (The Blue Ridge League) and Austin Gisriel (Boots Poffenberger: Hurler, Hero, Hell-Raiser). In case you are wondering why I would be included as part of the Washington County Heritage Night, my book Deadball: A Metaphysical Baseball Novel, prominently features Municipal Stadium.

Former Washington County Big Leaguers or their families will be in attendance Saturday night as well. Included in the list of players who made it to the Majors is John Wilson (1913), Ike Powers (1927-1928), “Boots” Poffenberger (1937-1939), Vic Barnhart (1944-1946), Dave Cole (1950-1955), Leo Burke (1958-1965), Mike Draper (1993) and Nick Adenhart (2008-2009). The Suns also are honoring Mickey Billmeyer, a major league coach, and Clyde Barhnhart, a long-time county resident and father of Vic Barnhart.

And if that isn’t enough, the first 1,000 fans receive a free poster featuring Hagerstown Suns players from years past.

For more information about the event, click HERE.

 

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For the Love of the Rain

By on April 30, 2014

Planning a week-long trip to minor league ballparks in the southeast United States during the first month of the season is a bit of a gamble given the penchant for April showers during that time of year in that area of the country. Still, one must play the hand dealt. With my youngest son’s high school spring break falling on the week of April 13th, the two of us gamefully set out on our long-planned, seven day tour of minor league ballparks in Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina, undaunted by bleak weather forecasts leading up to our departure date. During our stops in Kodak, Huntsville, Chattanooga, Nashville, Rome, Augusta, and Myrtle Beach, the rain mercifully held off at each locale, although the weather dipped into the 30’s and 40’s on a few nights. 

A Lone Stadium Usher Tries In Vain To keep The Rain Away at BB&T Ballpark in Charlotte, North Carolina

A Lone Stadium Usher Tries In Vain To keep The Rain Away at BB&T Ballpark in Charlotte, North Carolina

On the final full day of our trip, rain once again was in the forecast. Departing Myrtle Beach, we took a detour to Fort Mill, South Carolina, where the Charlotte’s Knights’ recently-abandoned ballpark stood in eerie silence, awaiting its fate as a future distribution center for Cato Corporation.  “There’s some sad things known to man, but ain’t too much sadder than” an abandoned ballpark awaiting demolition (with apologies to Smokey Robinson). It was dreary, to say the least, not the type of uplifting visit one needed on a day filled with the imminent threat rain. But because I’ve seldom met a ballpark I didn’t want to photograph, we stopped long enough for me to capture some images for posterity. 

The Now-Abandoned Knights Stadium in Fort Mill, South Carolina

The Now-Abandoned Knights Stadium in Fort Mill, South Carolina

Heading north on I-77 toward Charlotte, North Carolina, intermittent rain pelted the road and the dark skies suggested we might finally experience our first washout. We arrived long before the gates to BB&T Ballpark opened. My son and I walked around the outside of the city’s brand spanking new stadium, temporarily buoyed by the lack of rain and the tarpless infield. An hour later, as we waited for ushers to unlock the gates, we noticed stadium workers distributing and donning yellow rain ponchos. At exactly 5:30 pm, as the first few fans spun the turnstiles, the rain began and, after that, never really stopped.

Former Members of the Charlotte Orioles Gather in Rain For Pregame Ceremony

Former Members of the Charlotte Orioles  Tour the Charlotte Knight’s New Ballpark

The evening in Charlotte was to be extra special because the Knights had invited over 40 former members of the Charlotte Orioles to attend a pregame ceremony celebrating that team’s glory years and many championships. Long before the game officially was cancelled, however, my son and I departed Charlotte and, therefore, perhaps mercifully, were not in attendance when the Knights honored their former heroes during a soaked and rain shortened pregame “celebration.”

Former Charlotte Oriole and Baltimore Oriole Pitcher Sammy Stewart Signs Autographs In The Rain

Former Charlotte Oriole and Baltimore Oriole Pitcher Sammy Stewart Graciously Stops To Sign Autographs In The Rain During Tour of Ballpark

When it comes to minor league baseball in April, one must be pragmatic. Knowing ahead of time that inclement weather put the Charlotte game in jeopardy, my son and I devised an alternative plan that could put us around game time in another ballpark just 25 miles the north of Charlotte. With the northwesterly moving storm apparently not yet reaching Kannapolis, we headed up I-85 to CMC NorthEast Stadium in hopes of seeing the Kannapolis Intimidators take on the West Virginia Power.

Marquee At CNC NorthEast Stadium, Home of the Kinnapolis Intimidators

Marquee At CMC NorthEast Stadium, Home of the Kannapolis Intimidators

The rain followed us up the highway. Upon our arrival in Kannapolis, the stadium lights were dark, which is never a good sign when it comes night games that are supposed to be already underway. Although we were able to purchase tickets and walk around the wet concourse, we knew we were wasting our time if we were hoping to see an actual game that evening.

Tarp Covered Infield In Kinnapolis, North Carolina

Tarp Covered Infield In Kannapolis, North Carolina

Through the miracle of the internet, my son determined there were two minor league games already in progress in two different cities approximately one hour north of Kannapolis – Winston-Salem to the west and Greensboro to the east.  With Winston-Salem being a few miles closer, we rejoined I-85 on our way to yet another stadium named BB&T Ballpark in hopes of seeing the Winston-Salem Dash take on the Salem Red Sox.

Stadium Lights Illuminate BB&T Ballpark in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Stadium Lights Illuminate BB&T Ballpark in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

It was raining in Winston-Salem when we arrived, conjuring up notions of our setting our own personal minor league record – three rain outs in one day at three different ballparks.

Rain Doesn't Stop the Winston-Salem Dash From Battling The Salem Red Sox At BB&T Ballpark

Rain Doesn’t Stop the Winston-Salem Dash From Battling The Salem Red Sox At BB&T Ballpark

Alas, that record was to remain out of reach as it was already the bottom of the fourth inning when we arrived, meaning that game was about to become official. And it did.

The Red Sox Win

The Red Sox Win

Although the rain never stopped and increased as the game progressed, a complete game was played. After nine innings the Salem Red Sox had defeated the Winston-Salem Dash by a score of 8-1.

Post Game Fireworks Fill The Rain Soaked Night in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Youngest Son Watches As Post Game Fireworks Fill The Rain Soaked Sky in Winston-Salem, North Carolina

Winston-Salem wasn’t about to let a little rain nix their First Friday Night Fireworks of the Season (after all, the team’s mascot, named “Bolt,” has lightening bolts protruding from both ears). The couple hundred fans who remained thrilled to the sight of fireworks launched and quickly extinguished by the soaking rain. My son and I stayed to the bitter end as well, a seemingly fitting grand finale to our minor league baseball trip that took us to ten different ballparks in the span of one week . . . with only two rain outs.

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Baltimore Book Festival – Friday September 27th

By on September 26, 2013

 

The Baltimore Book Festival is an annual event held the last weekend of September in the Mt. Vernon section of Baltimore. The festival features appearances by local, celebrity, and nationally known authors, book signings, more than 100 exhibitors and booksellers, plus book readings, panel discussions, walking tours, storytellers, live music, and a variety of food, beer, and wine.

I’ll be in the Author’s Tent on Friday, September 27th from noon until 8 pm, talking baseball, and selling and signing copies of Deadball, A Metaphysical Baseball Novel. I’ll also be more than happy to share tidbits about my next novel currently in the works, tentatively entitled The Scribe of St. Mary’s.

The Baltimore Book Festival is located at Mt. Vernon Place, centered on 600 North Charles St, Baltimore MD 21201. Click here for a link to the festival website. I hope to see you there.

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A VFW Hall, Canarsie Caskets, And The Ebbets Field Flagpole

By on January 11, 2013

In August 2001 some friends and I took a day trip from Maryland to New York City to chase down historical baseball landmarks. Our stops included the former sites of Hilltop Park, the Polo Grounds, Washington Park, and Ebbets Field. While in Brooklyn, we also went in search of the Ebbets Field Flag Pole, which legend had it was located in front of a Brooklyn VFW Hall. That trip ultimately formed the basis for a chapter in my book Deadball A Metaphysical Baseball Novel in which protagonist Byron Bennett makes a solo trip to New York City in search of the same sites.

In the news recently I read that the Brooklyn Nets had acquired an Ebbets Field flagpole, which it relocated to a plaza in front of their home field at the Barclays Center. According to an article on ESPN, the flagpole was acquired by Nets owner Bruce Ratner in 2007.

On my trip in 2001, we did not know which VFW Hall in Brooklyn had the famed Ebbets Field Flagpole and, as such, spent a good portion of time driving around Brooklyn visiting as many VFW halls as we could find. Ultimately, it was just plain luck (or intervention of the baseball gods?) that led us to the flagpole. While driving south on Utica Street toward the Belt Parkway, we caught a glimpse of a flagpole in front of a one-story, red-brick building with a plastic banner hanging from the roof identifying the building  as the Canarsie Casket Company.

Ebbets Field Flagpole In Front Of the Canarsie Casket Company

The banner partially obscured another sign, carved in granite and set into the building’s brick wall which stated “Veterans of Foreign Wars.”  We knew then that we had found the famed Ebbets Field Flag Pole. Next to the sidewalk was a “Building For Sale” sign, suggesting a then-uncertain future for the Ebbets Field flagpole.

Kratter Corporation Dedication Plaque for the Ebbets Field Flagpole

At the base of the flagpole was a piece of granite with the following inscription:

Center Field Flag Pole
of
Ebbets Field
Donated By
Kratter Corp.

Kratter Corporation purchased Ebbets Field from the Dodgers two years before their move to Los Angeles in anticipation of developing the site once the team departed for the West Coast. Marvin Kratter, the corporation’s president, donated the flagpole to the VFW in 1960, where it stood until it was purchased by the Nets in 2007.

The Ebbets Field Flagpole

The flagpole now resides  just a short drive up Flatbush Avenue, two miles north of its former location at 55 Sullivan Place. So kudos to the Brooklyn Nets for helping insure that at least a small part of Ebbets Field remains in the borough. Also, its good to know that the flagpole no longer has the indignity of sitting in front of a building that manufactured caskets.

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Past Events

By on March 19, 2012

Past Events

Saturday, December 17, 2011 – house party in Silver Spring, Maryland

My First Book Signing

Saturday January 28, 2012 – 38th Annual Meeting of the SABR Bob Davids Chapter from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Rosslyn at Key Bridge, 1900 North Fort Myer Drive, Arlington VA.  The meeting was open to SABR members and costs $30 per member or guest ($15 for students).  I sold and autographed books at one of the vendor tables.

Sunday January 29, 2012 – house party in Bethesda, Maryland.

Book Signing Party in Bethesda

My friend Mary Ellen did a fantastic job organizing the party and providing the baseball-themed refreshments.

Take Me Out To The Ballgame

Many thanks to those who came out to listen to my story of the story.

And The Crowd Goes Wild

Saturday February 25, 2012 – Huntington Park Publications Launch Party at the Civic Building in Downtown Silver Spring, Maryland, from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.  Launch Party celebrated the publication of my novel, as well as Honour, A Historical Golf Novel by Richard O’Connor.

Dick O’Connor and David Stinson

The launch party was open to the general public.  Over 100 people attended.  A good time was had by all.

The View from the Front – Left

The View From The Front – Right

Many thanks to all who came out.

Tuesday, April 10, 2012 – Book Signing at NIH – 5:00-7:00 – 9101 Old Georgetown Road – at the corner of Old Georgetown Road and Cedar Lane, Bethesda, MD. For more information, click on NIH Newsletter and scroll toward the bottom.

Sunday, April 22, 2012 – Kensington Celebrates the International Day of the Book.  For more information, click on List of Publishers.  In addition, here’s a link to the festival: dayofthebook.com.

What a day – it rained and then rained some more.  The good news?  It was not a two-day festival.

When the rain comes they run and hide their heads

The only product we moved was the free candy

Saturday, May 19, 2012 – Gaithersburg Book Festival.  It was a beautiful day in historic Gaithersburg for the third annual book festival.  Thousands of book lovers converged on the festival for author talks and signings.  The highlight for me was giving one of my Deadball postcards to journalist Marvin Kalb.  For a link to the festival see: gaithersburgbookfestival.org

Friday, July 6, 2012 7:05 pm – Book Signing at the Hagerstown Suns.  Thanks to all the Suns fans who stopped by to visit and buy a book at the Lexington Legends game.  Although I had no view of the field from my spot on the concourse behind home plate, I was able to hear the roar of the crowd and was delighted to meet Mega Best Selling Author Nora Roberts, who was on hand to throw out the first pitch and sign books on the concourse as well.

Saturday, July 7, 2012 from 12-2pm – 17th Anniversary Celebration at Turn the Page Bookstore. What a great event and what an honor to be included.  Best Selling Author and baseball fan Nora Roberts / J D Robb was there along with Caridad Pineiro, Diana Peterfreund, and Karen White.  I want to give a special shout out to my table mate Jennifer L. Armentrout who has a great sense of humor and is a prolific and talented writer.  Turn the Page Bookstore is located at 18 North Main Street, Boonsboro, MD.  In case you missed the event and are looking for a copy of Deadball, they have several signed copies on sale at the store.  Here’s the link Turn The Page Bookstore 17th Anniversary Celebration

Sunday, July 22, 2012 – Book Signing at the Bowie Baysox Summer Reading Night.  Come buy a book and see the Baysox take on the Binghamton Mets.  Gates open at 5:00 p.m.,  game starts at 6:00.  I will be selling and signing books on the concourse behind home plate.

Saturday August 4, 2012 11 am – Book Signing at the Discovery Station in Hagerstown. The Discovery Station is kicking off the second phase of its baseball exhibit – “Take Me Out to The Ball Game … More than a Game” with a ribbon cutting at 10 am. I’ll be there signing books starting at 11 am. Here’s the link: Discovery Station

Saturday August 4, 2012 7:05 pm – Book Signing at the Hagerstown Suns.  I’m back at the Hagerstown Suns this Saturday August 4th when the Suns take on the Lexington Legends.  It’s Bryce Harper Garden Gnome Giveway Night so be sure to come early! Here’s the link: Hagerstown Suns Official Site

Saturday Septmeber 1, 2012 – Frederick Keys – Harry Grove Stadium. Gates open at 5 pm. First pitch at 6 pm. Here’s the link: Frederick Keys

Saturday September 8, 2012 – Talkin’ Baseball, SABR Bob Davids Chapter, Brighton Gardens 7110 Minstrel Way, Columbia, Maryland 21045. Here’s the link: Talkin Baseball – Columbia, Maryland

Sunday September 23, 2012 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store. Here’s the link: American History Museum Calendar

Friday September 28, 2012 – Baltimore Book Festival.  Author’s Tent.  Noon until 8:00, Mt. Vernon Place, centered on 600 North Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201. Here’s the link: Baltimore Book Festival

Sunday October 21, 2012 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall.  Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar

Saturday and Sunday, November 3-4, 2012 – D.C. Big Flea Antique Show, Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Admission $8. I’ll be there selling and signing my book Deadball, as well as selling some really cool old pop culture collectibles. Here’s the link DC Big Flea

Saturday  November 10, 2012 11 am – Book Signing at the Discovery Station in Hagerstown. The Discovery Station celebrates the end of the baseball season with its baseball exhibit – “Take Me Out to The Ball Game … More than a Game.” I’ll be there signing books starting at 11 am. Here’s the link: Discovery Station or Herald Mail

Sunday November 25, 2012 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall.  Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar

Thursday December 27, 2012 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall.  Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar

Sunday January 20, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar

Saturday February 2, 2013 – 39th Annual Meeting of the SABR Bob Davids Chapter from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Rosslyn at Key Bridge, 1900 North Fort Myer Drive, Arlington VA.

Sunday February 3, 2013 – Book Sale/Signing at the Washington Golf Show, 10 am to 4 pm at the Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Here’s the website: Washington Golf Show.

Saturday February 16, 2013 – Book Signing at Greetings and Readings Book Store from noon until 3 pm at the Hunt Valley Towne Centre 118-AA Shawan Road, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21030. Here’s a link to the store’s website: Greetings and Readings

Sunday February 24, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar

Saturday and Sunday, March 2-3 2013 – D.C. Big Flea Antique Show, Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Admission $8. I’ll be there selling and signing my book Deadball, as well as selling some really cool old pop culture collectibles. Here’s the link DC Big Flea

Friday March 8, 2013 – Book Reading/Signing at The Ivy Bookshop, 6080 Falls Road, Baltimore, Maryland 21209.  I am honored to be one of three auhors kicking off a new author reading series at the Ivy Bookshop entitled “Starts Here.” Here’s a link to the store’s website: Ivy Bookshop Starts Here Series

Saturday April 6, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 2:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar. Appearing with Paul Dickson, author of Bill Veeck, Baseball’s GreatestMaverick.

Saturday April 13, 2013 – Book Signing at the Winchester Book Gallery. 11 am – 1 pm, 185 N. Loudoun Street, Winchester, Virginia. Appearing with Austin Gisriel, author of Safe at Home, A Season in the Valley. Here is a link to Winchester Book Gallery.

Sunday April 14, 2013 – Charity Book Signing Shepherd’s Table at AFI Theater, Silver Spring, Maryland, noon until 1:55 with a showing of Field of Dreams beginning at 2:00 pm. Proceeds go to Shepherd’s Table. Here is a link to AFI Theater. Here is a link to Shepherd’s Table.

Saturday and Sunday, May 4-5 2013 – D.C. Big Flea Antique Show, Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Admission $8. I’ll be there selling and signing my book Deadball, as well as selling some really cool old pop culture collectibles. Here’s the link DC Big Flea

Saturday May 18, 2013 – Gaithersburg Book Festival. 10- am – 6 pm, 31 South Summit Avenue, Gaithersburg, MD 20877. I’ll be in the Hall of Exhibiting Authors, a large tented space in the center of the festival. Here’s the official website of the Gaithersburg Book Festival.

Sunday May 26, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar – POSTPONED DUE TO ROLLING THUNDER

Sunday June 23, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar

Saturday July 13, 2013 – Book Signing at Greetings and Readings Book Store from noon until 3 pm at the Hunt Valley Towne Centre 118-AA Shawan Road, Hunt Valley, Maryland 21030. Here’s a link to the store’s website: Greetings and Readings

Sunday July 21, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar

Saturday and Sunday, September 14-15 2013 – D.C. Big Flea Antique Show, Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Admission $8. I’ll be there selling and signing copies of my book Deadball, as well as selling some really cool old pop culture collectibles. Here’s the link DC Big Flea

Friday September 27, 2013 – Baltimore Book Festival.  Author’s Tent.  Noon until 8:00, Mt. Vernon Place, centered on 600 North Charles Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21201. Here’s the link: Baltimore Book Festival Authors’ Tent

Sunday October 20, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar.

Saturday and Sunday, November 2-3, 2013 – D.C. Big Flea Antique Show, Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Admission $8. I’ll be there selling and signing copies of my book Deadball, as well as selling some really cool old pop culture collectibles. Here’s the link DC Big Flea

Friday November 29, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar.

Saturday November 30, 2013 – Fenton Street Holiday Market. Veterans Plaza in Downtown Silver Spring, Maryland. 10 am to 4 pm. Corner of Fenton Street and Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

Saturday December 21, 2013 – Fenton Street Holiday Market. Veterans Plaza in Downtown Silver Spring, Maryland. 10 am to 4 pm. Corner of Fenton Street and Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

Sunday December 29, 2013 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the Smithsonian Institution Events Calendar.

Saturday and Sunday, January 4-5, 2014 – D.C. Big Flea Antique Show, Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Admission $8. I’ll be there selling and signing copies of my book Deadball, as well as selling some really cool old pop culture collectibles. Here’s the link DC Big Flea

Tuesday March 18, 2014 – Harrisburg Senators Fan Club, starting at 6:30 PM – New Cumberland American Legion. Here’s a link to their site: Harrisburg Senators Fan Club

Wednesday March 31, 2014 – St. Ambrose Housing Aid Center – Fundraiser for St. Ambrose.

Saturday April 26, 2014 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Calendar

Saturday and Sunday, May 3-4, 2014 – D.C. Big Flea Antique Show, Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Admission $8. I’ll be there selling and signing copies of my book Deadball, as well as selling some really cool old pop culture collectibles. Here’s the link DC Big Flea

Saturday July 19, 2014 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Calendar

Saturday August 23, 2014 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 3:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Calendar

Saturday and Sunday, September 27th and 28th, 2014 – Baltimore Book Festival Authors’ Tent – held at the Inner Harbor. I will be one of the speakers on Saturday at the Authors Tent Stage – at 6 pm. For a complete listing of authors click here.

Friday November 28, 2014 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 4:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Calendar

Saturday December 20, 2014 – Fenton Street Holiday Market. Veterans Plaza in Downtown Silver Spring, Maryland. 10 am to 4 pm. Corner of Fenton Street and Ellsworth Drive, Silver Spring, MD 20910.

Monday December 29, 2014 – Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History. Noon until 4:00 pm, 1300 Constitution Avenue, N.W. DC 20004, outside the Museum Store on the Second Floor near the museum entrance just off the National Mall. Here’s a link to the event: Smithsonian Calendar

Saturday and Sunday, January 10-11, 2015 – D.C. Big Flea Antique Show, Dulles Expo & Convention Center, Chantilly, Virginia. Saturday 9 am to 6 pm, Sunday 11 am to 5 pm. Admission $8. I’ll be there selling and signing copies of my book Deadball, as well as selling some really cool old pop culture collectibles. Here’s the link DC Big Flea

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