Fathers and baseball.
They go together — hand in glove. So what better way to celebrate all the “Dads” in your life than to attend Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum’s fifth annual "Take Dad Out to the Ball Game 1864!" on Father’s Day this Sunday, from 1 to 3 p.m.
Playing by 1864 rules, the 19th-century “base ball match,” as the game used to be called, between the New York Mutuals and the Mineola Washingtons (both from Old Bethpage Restoration Village on Long Island), will feature historically accurate replicas of uniforms, bats, and balls.
New York Mutuals president, Tom “Big Bat” Fesolowich, will serve as announcer, entertainingly explaining the differences between this earlier version and the current game.
“With no gloves, just a ball and a bat to hit it with, this is baseball in its purest sense — when it was a gentleman’s game,” says Thom “Dirt” Fioriglio, the team’s captain. “It’s where love of history and love of the game meet.”
BPMM executive director Ellen Bruzelius adds, “Enjoying America’s favorite pastime 19th-century style in Bartow-Pell’s historic setting is a wonderful way to celebrate Father’s Day with your loved ones. So Take Dad Out to the Ball Game!”
After the game, there will be a raffle of the game ball, and team members will play rounders — baseball’s precursor — with children on site. Tours of the 19th-century Bartow-Pell Mansion will also be available.
Registration is requested. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $5 for children 6–17; for members, $8 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $3 for children 6–17. Children under 6 are free. Call 718-885-1461 or email info@bpmm.org for more information and to register. For directions and to learn more about upcoming events, visit www.bpmm.org.
For additional information about the New York Mutuals, visit www.nymutuals.com. There is no rain date for the event.
