Lot # 201: 1908 Merkle’s Boner Makeup Game Crowd at the Polo Grounds Original 5x7 Glass Plate Negative

Starting Bid: $200.00

Bids: 1 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
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Item was in Auction "Spring, 2022 Premier Auction",
which ran from 3/16/2022 9:00 PM to
4/2/2022 9:00 PM



Note: the title of this listing has been updated from what appears in the paper catalog.
 
Original 5” x 7” glass plate negative from George Grantham Bain’s news photo service. An incredible piece of memorabilia that was actually on the field October 8, 1908 during the makeup game between the Giants and Cubs resulting from “Merkle’s Boner,” perhaps the most interesting and controversial baserunning event in the history of the game. On September 23, 1908 with the Cubs visiting the Polo Grounds, Giants rookie Fred Markle failed to touch second base on what should have been a game-winning base hit by teammate Al Bridwell. Instead of continuing on from first, Merkle headed for his dugout as fans stormed the field. In the ensuing chaos, Cubs second baseman Johnny Evers grabbed a ball (whether or not it was THE ball is open for debate) and tagged the bag, which resulted in Merkle being called out. The game was called for darkness and ultimately had to be replayed as the Cubs and Giants concluded their seasons with identical 98-55 recprds. In the ensuing makeup game the Giants were defeated 4-2 and the Cubs would go on to capture their first World Series title in franchise history. The presented negative offers a fantastic image of young fans seated in front of the grandstand at the Polo Grounds, cheering on their heroes while an officer of the law keeps a watchful eye. Despite very minor chipping to the emulsion this negative is in exemplary condition for a delicate, 114 year-old plate of glass that helped chronicle one of baseball's most legendary episodes.

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