Henry Chadwick letter to Doc Adams dated Aug 16, 1898 (page 1) [Source: Manuscripts and Archives, Yale University Library]
Letter from Henry Chadwick to Doc Adams dated Aug 16, 1898 [page 1] (Source: Manuscripts and Archives, Yale University Library)
Henry Chadwick letter to Doc Adams dated Aug 16, 1898 (page 2) [Source: Manuscripts and Archives, Yale University Library]
Henry Chadwick letter to Doc Adams dated Aug 16, 1898 [page 2] (Source: Manuscripts and Archives, Yale University Library)

257 Green Ave, Brooklyn
Aug 16th 1898

My Dear Doctor,

A most agreeable surprise was given me this morning on the receipt of your very kind and interesting letter. The article in the Tribune to which you refer and which was a reminder of me I have not seen, but I shall [credit] it for it’s being the means for bringing forth your most welcome letter.

What memories of old days your reminiscent letter called forth. First think it is over a half a century since I first saw the old Knickerbockers play. When you and all the “old boys” Davis, Kissam, Grenelle, Wenman, and a dozen more whom I cannot just now call to mind used to meet on Mondays and Thursdays at the Elysian Fields to enjoy base ball as it is not enjoyed in the modern day.

That title of “Father of Base Ball” is out of place. Ball, like Topsy, “never had no fader”; it growed up. Still I feel proud to know that I have helped to build up a national game of ball, and have fought so hard against all abuses which had crept into the sport in the past, as to ensure its worthiness of the title of the most honest sport in which professional exemplars take part, as it is now.

I send you a copy of the National League Guide for 1898 which I have edited for the last 15 years. Also another from Walden’s Monthly of 1894, which will interest you. I wish I had time for a longer pen chat with you, but I am busy preparing for my next trip to Canada.

Trusting to hear from you again soon.

I remain

Very Truly Yours,

Henry Chadwick