Celebrate America’s favorite pastime at Grapevine’s Historic Nash Farm
GRAPEVINE, TEXAS (May 6, 2019) – Baseball fans can experience Grapevine’s annual 1860s Vintage Ballgame, Saturday, May 11, at Nash Farm, 626 Ball St. Cheer on as four teams – the North Texas Cattlemen vs. the Farmers Branch Mustangs and the Marrow Bone Springs vs. the Grapevine Farmers – participate in two 7-inning Town Ball exhibition games. First pitch of Game 1 is at 6 p.m.
These Town Ball exhibition games will be played using 1860s rules, regulations and terminology, including the use of a larger, heavier but softer ball known as a “horsehide” or “onion;” instead of a typical baseball diamond, a batting plate and four stakes with flags placed in the ground where the bases would be are laid out in the shape of a square; five positions make up the field-of-play; the use of gloves is not permitted as they were not used during that time period; batters are known as strikers; and players wear historic 1860s uniforms, however, the Grapevine Farmers will be wearing traditional 1860s farm wear.
Admission is $5 per person and includes popcorn and lemonade. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating.
This heritage event pays homage to Grapevine’s rich baseball history, which began with the first organized team, the Grapevine Browns, in 1907. The Grapevine Browns were the sons of early settlers and traveled to and from games against other areas in a wagon. Grapevine’s original ballpark was located at the north end of Main Street. Ball Street, where Nash Farm is located, is named so because it led out to the baseball fields.
Nash Farm, circa 1859, is the oldest operating farmstead in Tarrant County. Through interpretive programs, events and exhibits, Nash Farm educates the community about the heritage and importance of the Grape Vine Prairie and Grapevine’s pivotal role in the development of North Texas. A variety of programs and special events remaining throughout the year, include First Fridays at the Farm, Heritage Workshops, Barn Dance and the 19th Annual Nash Farm Fall Round-Up, and offer guests unique learning experiences in a historic setting. Volunteer opportunities at Nash Farm are available through the Nash Farmhand Program.
For more information about the 1860s Vintage Ballgame, Nash Farm or to purchase tickets, please call 817.410.3185 or visit NashFarm.org.