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Lot # 541: 1919 Baseball Influenza Pandemic "Mask" Original Glass Plate Negative

Starting Bid: $500.00

Bids: 3 (Bid History)

Time Left: Auction closed
Lot / Auction Closed




This lot is closed. Bidding is not allowed.

Item was in Auction "Mid-Spring Classic 2021",
which ran from 5/9/2021 7:00 PM to
6/4/2021 11:00 PM



Original glass plate negative of a historic and somewhat haunting image from a century ago. Dated to a California Winter League game of January 26, 1919, which was played in Pasadena, the traditional baseball tableau depicts batter, catcher, and umpire at home plate, but with a twist - all are wearing face coverings, as are the fans in the background, as required by a local ordinance during the 1919 global influenza pandemic. A week later, the mandate was lifted so this is believed to have been the only game played under these conditions. Stunning and relevant artifact from baseball - and American - history. Comes with envelope stating "Baseball Players Wearing Influenza Masks."

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