MATCH RECAP: July 11, 2004 - vs. St. Louis Unions
Mains & Unions Battle The Heat In Well-Played Match
Trenton’s vintage ball team, the Mains, took the field on Sunday in Germantown against the St. Louis Unions. The two rivals are both first year vintage teams playing by the 1860’s rules. Trenton’s boys did the town proud and notched a 19-9 victory in a nine inning affair.
The game was played after the Clinton County League All-Star game and gave the gathered crowd some historical insight on the game of base ball as it was played long ago.
The Unions represent themselves as a group of Unions soldiers who were camped in north St. Louis in 1860. Those early soldiers, many of who were from the East, brought the game of base ball to the Midwest for the very first time. It was during and just after the Civil War that base ball began to grow in popularity. The modern Unions dress in soldier’s uniforms much like Union troops would have worn while on duty at the camp.
In keeping with the gentlemanly nature of 1860's base ball, the Unions asked for and received permission from the ladies in the crowd to be able to roll up their shirtsleeves on this hot afternoon. In addition, the vintage rule against sweating was waived. However, fines were levied against those who swore and spat. A total of $6.25 was collected in fines by Righteous Rich Rea and Soda “Turkey” Buzzard - the umpires who shared duty on the day. Fines of 25 cents (or a day’s wages in 1860) are often levied per dalliance in vintage games!
The game was highlighted by enthusiastic play by both nines. The Mains found themselves down early as the Unions tallied four aces in the first. The Mains fought back and by the third inning had gained a lead, which they never gave back.
Rich “Boomer” Ritzheimer had several hits on the day, giving no indication of decline in his skills as a ballist of 73. Derek "Crazy Legs" Brandmeyer made several nice catches in the field and smacked a long triple while striking at the line.
The Hilmes boys, "Sloppy" and "Country," each provided support with the wood as well. In the end, when all was said and done, the Mains were glad to get the last hand dead on this hot, hot afternoon. The Unions, a scrappy and able bunch of gentlemen had rallied in their last at bat, but could not overcome the deficit Trenton had created for them.
The Mains would like to thank the Clinton County League and the City of Germantown for their support and invitation to hold the match. The Mains next scheduled game will be their only true home game in 2004 when they will take on the Rock Springs Ground Squirrels on August 1st. The game will be held at the City Park in trenton.