19th Century American Clock Company "Iron Front" Baseball Clock

Auction: May 2003

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19th Century American Clock Company "Iron Front" Baseball Clock

19th Century American Clock Company "Iron Front" Baseball Clock

Baseball clock buffs - this unique timepiece tells a tale of the origins of our National Pastime, dating back to its founding fathers! The design itself is worthy of a thousand words. An elaborate iron face with sculpted design work and raised figures representing players, two children (at top), and two figures in the background (one is a writer, the other a gentleman). Upon close examination, the man who is writing in the background is Henry Chadwick, the most famous sportswriter of the 19th century. The person to his right, wearing a top hat is modern baseball's founding father, Alexander Cartwright. The player to the right of the dial, holding a baseball, is most likely Bobby Mathews (based on the logo on his jersey). He is one of three pitchers for the New York Mutuals (1871-76) who is credited with the first win in major league history. The player to the left of the dial, holding a bat is most likely Bob Ferguson of the Brooklyn Athletics. These two clubs formed the local New York rivalry. Ingenious past, present and future scene is broken down by Chadwick and Cartwright representing the past pioneers, the two players on either side of the dial representing the present, and the two children at the top representing the future of the game. Measures 16" to the top of the face (completely made of iron). The clock's case is made of wood. "American Clock Co." label is still attached to the back with "Depot, No. 3 Cortlandt St., New York. 115 Lake Street, Chicago" printed on it with directions for regulating. A masterfully constructed work of art, and an amazing piece of 19th century baseball history. This one surely belongs in a museum.

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