1871 Philadelphia Athletics Historical Marker

Firsts in early baseball are both difficult to come by and sometimes proved wrong. But there is no doubt that the 1871 Philadelphia Athletics were the first champions of the National Association, making them the first professional baseball league champions in history. Nine of the 12 men to play for the Athletics in 1871 were from Philadelphia or nearby towns, something of a rarity for high profile clubs of this era. But they did have a mercenary in the form of English-born Al Reach, one of the top players of the amateur and early professional eras.  The idea of a league was so new and different that few understood how the champion would be determined. It wasn't until late in the season that the winner of the most series would be awarded the championship. The Athletics effectively clinched the National Association pennant after beating the Chicago White Stockings 4-1 in New York. 

With permission, a historical marker honoring the importance of this team and their championship 150 years ago will hopefully be dedicated at the Athletic Recreation Center in Philadelphia in late summer/early autumn 2021. The recreation center sits on property once used by the Athletics as their home field in 1871.

Those who donate $100 or more qualify for a free Shibe Park t-shirt courtesy of Shibe Vintage Sports (https://bit.ly/3wPwMYw)