The Vintage Game

Vintage base ball — historically written as two words — is played by the rules and customs of the 19th century, faithfully recreating America’s favorite pastime as it was enjoyed between 1860 and 1867.

Ballist, often known by colorful nicknames, take the field in period correct uniforms and caps. Conduct on and off the field reflects the highest standards of sportsmanship, gentlemanly behavior, courtesy, and respect. A ballist who happens to utter a curse or forget himself by spitting may be required by the arbiter to offer a public apology to the opposing club and the assembled spectators.

Canal Dover Redlegs Home Rules

• The ball shall be pitched underhand and released below the hip.  The pitcher may apply spin, or no spin to the ball and can pitch it at any speed.

• Games shall be 18 innings, with each side playing 9 innings.

• The club shall not use modern wood bats, but home-made bats, or vintage style bats.

• If a ball strikes an object, it is not considered part of the "ground"

• Cranks are not to touch a ball as they are still in play even when hitting an object like a tree

Vintage Base Ball Terms

• Ace or Tally - run; crossing home base

• Arbiter - umpire

• Baller, Ballist - player

• Basetender - an infielder

• Behind - catcher

• Bound - bounce

• Cranks - fans

• Club - team

• Foul tic - foul ball

• Ground - field

• Hurler - pitcher

• Hand - out

• Huzzah! - hurrah!

• Leg It - run swiftly

• Match -game

• Midfielder- center fielder

• Muff - error

• On the fly - in the air

• Player Dead - out

• Rover - short stop

• Striker - batter; hitter

• Striker to the line - batter up

• Talleykeeper - score keeper