Paterson hosting 19th century baseball game at Westside Park
By Jonathan Greene
Published: May 30, 2015
The Paterson Historic Preservation Commission is hosting a baseball game with 19th century game rules in Westside Park on June 6. The game will pit the New York Gothams against the Brooklyn Atlantics.
Atlantic Base Ball Club was established in 1997 as a re-creation of the 19th century Brooklyn Atlantics. Photo by Vicki Kowalczyk courtesy of Paterson Historic Preservation Commission.
Both teams will play according to 1864 baseball rules and regulations. Each will use period baseball equipment and wear 19th century baseball uniforms.
Mayor Jose “Joey” Torres will toss the first pitch at 11 a.m. to kick off the game in the open field next to the Van Houten House.
A second pitch will be thrown at 1:30 p.m.
The teams taking part in the vintage games are non-profit organizations with the aim of demonstrating the historic origin of America’s favorite pastime. Team officials will explain how the game’s rules have changed and the sport evolved to what it is today.
Fielders in the game do not use gloves, they play barehanded as it was done 125 years ago. The Van Houten House in the park will feature historic baseball memorial during the duration of the event.
Throughout the event tours of the historic Westside Park highlighting its history and development will be offered.
This event is free for the public. Parking is available at the John F. Kennedy High School lot off Preakness Avenue and within the park. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets to sit in because the field does not have bleachers for an audience.
The family friendly event will have picnic tables available by the pavilion on first-come, first-serve basis. Hot dogs, hamburgers, and barbecue will be available for purchase from R & H Catering.
Event: 19th Century Baseball Game at Westside Park
When: Saturday, June 6, 2015 at 11 a.m.
Where: Westside Park (114 Totowa Avenue, Paterson, NJ).
For more information please contact the Paterson Historic Preservation at (973) 321-1220.