Henry Chadwick On The Father Of Baseball
On August 16, 1898, Hall of Fame pioneer, Henry Chadwick wrote to his friend, Doc Adams, responding to Doc’s letter congratulating him on the title of “Father of Base Ball”. Mr. Chadwick wrote:
“That title of ‘Father of Base Ball’ is out of place. Base [Ball] like Topsy ‘never had no fader’; it growed up.”
Henry Chadwick in letter to Doc Adams (August 16, 1898)
Mr. Chadwick wasn’t just being modest; he knew that baseball evolved from other bat and ball games and that there was no single “Father of Base Ball”. However, there are several individuals who played instrumental roles in the development of our National Pastime during its nascent stages, including our good doctor. They were responsible for maturing a children’s game into an adult sport.
Among those pioneers who made substantial and foundational contributions, Doc Adams has a prominent standing.
For his role in making baseball the success it is, Doc Adams may be counted first among the Fathers of Baseball.
“Doc Adams“, SABR Bio Project, John Thorn
Discover more from Doc Adams Base Ball (Official)
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