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Tag: senators

Hank Greenberg Started Career in Hartford Connecticut

Sat. 12/23/23Tue. 03/12/24 by Weston Ulbrich

Did You Know? Hank Greenberg Began his Career in Hartford

Before becoming one of the game’s greatest sluggers, Hank Greenberg began his professional career in Hartford, Connecticut. As a youngster, Greenberg attended James Monroe High School in The Bronx, New York, where he was an outstanding athlete in baseball, basketball, and soccer. At 19 years old he dropped out of New York University to sign a $9,000 contract with the Detroit Tigers. The Tigers placed him on their Class-A affiliate, the Hartford Senators of the Eastern League. Greenberg appeared in 17 games for the Senators in the spring of 1930.

1930 Hank Greenberg Hartford Senators — Hank Greenberg, Hartford Senators, 1930.

The two-time American League MVP and two-time World Series champion did not perform like an all-star in his first few professional appearances. He was a scrawny and inexperienced version of the player who later became “Hammerin’ Hank.” Greenberg cut his teeth with Hartford while in search of his persona as a right-handed power-hitter. He was the youngest player on a less than mediocre team.

1934 Dec 28 Hank Greenberg Hartford Senators — Hank Greenberg, Hartford Senators, 1930.

His Hartford teammates and his manager called him by the nickname “Bruggy.” Greenberg’s first skipper was Lore “King” Bader, a former big league spitballer known for his love of cards. Hartford’s top hitter was John “Bunny” Roser, a local first baseman and a former major leaguer who hit .322 on the 1930 season. King Bader opted to use Roser over Greenberg and after a few weeks, Greenberg was demoted to the Class-C Raleigh Capitals of the Piedmont League.

1937 Hank Greenberg — Hank Greenberg, 1937.

Following a 35-44 win-loss record, Hartford folded on June 30, 1930, citing financial ruin. Bad baseball and austerity brought on by the Great Depression ended Hartford’s season early. The Eastern League was reduced to four clubs, but Greenberg went on to bigger and better things. He hit .314 for Raleigh of the Carolina League that summer. Then on September 14, 1930, Greenberg made his major league debut as a pinch hitter against the New York Yankees.

1939 Hank Greenberg Detroit Tigers — Hank Greenberg, 1939.

What about the rest of the Greenberg story? Well, he attracted national attention during the 1934 pennant race when he decided not to play on the Jewish holy day of Yom Kippur. He was the first Jewish superstar in American sports. While enduring anti-semitic remarks and gestures, he prevailed over prejudice with a .314 lifetime batting average and 331 major league home runs. His seventeen years in professional baseball were limited by the events of World War II, when served in both the United States Army and the Army Air Corps.

1946 Hank Greenberg Detroit Tigers — Hank Greenberg, 1946.

On his return to a baseball in 1945, Greenberg and the Tigers claimed another World Series victory. Then in 1947, his final year, Greenberg was one of few opposing players to publicly welcome Jackie Robinson to the major leagues. Hank “The Hebrew Hammer” Greenberg was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1956. He is one of three Jewish players to be inducted (in addition to Sandy Koufax and Lou Boudrou).

Sources:
1. Hartford Courant database on Newspapers.com
2. SABR article on Hank Greenberg by Scott Ferkovich

Sat. 03/04/23Fri. 05/16/25 by Weston Ulbrich

Cobb, Ruth & Wethersfield Avenue Grounds of Old South Hartford

A long lost baseball park in the South End of Hartford, Connecticut, once hosted Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, hometown professionals and local amateurs. Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, also referred to as Hartford Baseball Park or the Hartford Grounds was built in 1896. Hartford Base Ball Club owner and manager, William Barnie, led the construction of a grandstand, 150 feet wide and 20 feet tall. Then in 1905, James H. Clarkin purchased the Hartford Senators of the Connecticut State League and leased Wethersfield Avenue Grounds. At that time, the Hartford Courant praised the baseball diamond as “the finest in this section of the country.”

1896 Hartford Base Ball Club Wethersfield Avenue Grounds — Barnie secures Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, 1896.

1900 Billy Barnie Hartford Manager — Bill Barnie, 1900.

1908 Hartford Base Ball Grounds — Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, Hartford, Connecticut, 1908.

Including home stands of the Hartford Senators, thousands of games were played on the skin diamond at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds. High demand in the venue caused improvements and renovations on several occasions. The first remodel came after the Senators won a pennant in 1909. The following spring Wethersfield Avenue Grounds boasted a new ticket office, a concessions stand and carpeting in the clubhouse. Senators Manager Bob Connery expressed his pleasure with the upgrades and the ballpark became a destination for the game’s biggest names.

1910 WIlliam Moore Hartford Baseball Park Groundskeeper — William Moore, Hartford Groundskeeper, 1910.

1912 Hartford vs. New Haven Wethersfield Avenue Grounds — New Haven vs. Hartford at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, 1912.

1912 New Grandstand at Wethersfiled Avenue Grounds Hartford Baseball Park — Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, 1912.

1913 Benny Kauff Hartford Senators — Benny Kauff, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1913.

1916 Hartford Senators Judge Landis — Hartford Senators & Judge Kenesaw Landis, Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, 1916.

In the summer of 1916, the infamous Ty Cobb delighted a Hartford crowd fans at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds. Cobb guest starred for the visiting New Haven Colonials at first base and relief pitcher against the semi-professional Hartford Poli’s. Alongside Cobb on the Colonials was Torrington High School alumnus and Philadelphia Athletics shortstop, Joe Dugan. The Colonials shutout the Poli’s 7-0. Cobb would return to Hartford in 1918, though his visits would be overshadowed by another great slugger.

1916 Ty Cobb New Haven Colonials vs Hartford Polis — Ty Cobb plays in Hartford, 1916.

In 1918 and 1919 the one and only Babe Ruth played at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds as part of his annual barnstorming tour. Days after winning the World Series with Boston Red Sox, Ruth made his first appearance in Hartford on September 16, 1918. Ruth pitched the Hartford Poli’s to a 1-0 victory versus the Fisk Red Tops, by hurling a complete game shutout and allowing just four hits. He also batted third in the order, recording a single and double. The game drew a crowd of about 5,000 spectators and Ruth was paid $350 for his appearance.

1918 Babe Ruth Hartford Wethersfield Aveune Grounds — Babe Ruth plays at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, 1918.

In 1921, Owner Clarkin built a new ballpark a stones throw from Wethersfield Avenue Grounds. The new site was located at the intersection of Hanmer Street and George Street off of Franklin Avenue in South Hartford. Dubbed Clarkin Field, the new grandstand of steel and concrete wrapped from foul pole to foul pole. The park was completed in 1921 and baseball at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds finally came to a close.

Wed. 05/26/21Sun. 06/26/22 by Weston Ulbrich

When the Washington Senators Came to Hartford

On September 23, 1930, the Washington Senators stepped off the train at Union Station in Hartford, Connecticut. The club was on their way to Boston for a four game series, but not before making a stop in the Charter Oak City. Washington was led by Hall of Fame pitching ace, and player-manager, Walter Johnson. The club rested up at Hotel Garde that Tuesday morning before their afternoon game at Bulkeley Stadium.

1930 Hartford Main Street Looking South — Main Street, Hartford, Connecticut, looking south, 1930.

Opposing Washington was a team comprised of Eastern League All-Stars. The minor league team organized by Billy Gleason, a veteran second basemen from Springfield. Gleason invited his teammate Bill “Whitey” Dreesen, the Eastern League leader in hits. Other players in the Eastern League lineup included Hartford’s corner outfielder John “Bunny” Roser and a Hartford Twilight League pitcher named Fred “Cy” Waterman.

1933 Savitt Gems Johnny Roser Pat Loftus — John “Bunny” Roser, 1930.

Local sporting goods store owner and founder of the Hartford Twilight League, Harry N. Anderson was responsible for scheduling the game. Anderson made arrangements with Washington’s owner Clark Griffith. Prices were 75 cents for grandstand seating, 50 cents for bleachers and 25 cents for children. Ticket proceeds were donated to the Hartford Chapter of Disabled American Veterans. Famous showmen Al Schacht and Nick Altrock performed hilarious comedy routines between innings.

1938 Al Schacht Bulkeley Stadium — Al Schacht in Hartford, 1938.

However, well-known names and newspaper publicity only brought 800 fans to the stadium. Tuesday afternoon was not a convenient time for fans, and there were economic reasons for the low attendance. Hartford, like most places in America at that time, were still in the grips of the Great Depression.

1930 Coming Here Walter Johnson To Direct Team Against Stars — Hartford Courant excerpt, September 21, 1930.

Longtime Hartford umpires, Walter Elliot and John “Boggy” Muldoon worked the exhibition game at Bulkeley Stadium. First pitch was set for 4:15 PM. In the heart of the batting order for Washington was right fielder Sam Rice, left fielder Heinie Manush and shortstop Joe Cronin (all of which later inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame). Washington was one of the most revered hitting teams in all of baseball.

1958 Mar 28 Boggy Muldoon — John “Boggy” Muldoon, Umpire, 1930.

Unexpectedly, it was the minor leaguers who took an early lead. Bill Dreesen connected for a grand slam in the fourth inning. The game only lasted eight innings to allow the Senators to catch a train to Boston. Neil Dougherty and Billy Gleason each had two knocks on the day. The Eastern Leaguers won the game (9-8) thanks to a run scoring single by Jonathan “Mandy” Brooks.

1931 Hartford Senators Baseball at Bulkeley Stadium — Bulkeley Stadium, Hartford, Connecticut, 1931.

The outcome would have been different if Walter Johnson pitched in the game. For whatever reason, Johnson decided not to throw. Perhaps he was focused on Washington’s remaining American League schedule. By the end of September, the Washington Senators had finished second in the American League with 94 wins and 60 losses, eight games behind the Philadelphia Athletics, Connie Mack’s World Series Champions.

Sources

Hartford Courant database on Newspapers.com.
Connecticut Historical Society on CHS.org/research

1923 Hartford Senators Lou Gehrig Clarkin Field 1

Thu. 05/13/21Sun. 12/15/24 by Weston Ulbrich

Hartford’s Minor League Club, Part III: The Senators (1916-1934)

Minor Leagues

Eastern League (1916-1932)
Northeastern League (1934)

Championship Seasons

1923 & 1931

Hartford Senators in the National Baseball Hall of Fame

Jesse Burkett, Player-manager (1916)
Lou Gehrig, First Baseman (1921, 1923-1924)
Leo Durocher, Shortstop (1925)
Hank Greenberg, First Baseman (1930)

The Hartford Senators remain Connecticut’s most enduring sports franchise of all-time. For more than three decades (1902-1934) the Senators were Hartford’s headliner club. The minor league team became an elite training ground for the Major Leagues. Baseball legends like Lou Gehrig, Jim Thorpe, Leo Durocher and Hank Greenberg honed their skills in Hartford. The following chronology recounts the Senators franchise during their later years (1916-1934).

1916 Hartford Senators Wethersfield Avenue Grounds — Hartford holds a practice at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, 1916.

By the 1916 season James H. Clarkin had owned the Hartford Senators for more than a decade. That year, Clarkin’s club became a member of the Eastern League, a new Class-B circuit. Former Boston Red Sox champion and 15-year veteran, Heine Wagner signed as Hartford’s nascent player-manager. The Senators recruited Paddy O’Connor, a catcher with big league experience. George Brickley, a Trinity College alumnus and head coach at Hartford Public High School, patrolled the outfield.

1916 Heine Wagner Hartford Senators Manager — Heine Wagner, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1916.

1916 Heine Wagner Hartford Senators Eastern League — Heine Wagner, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1916.

1916 Apr 30 Quartet of Hartford Senators — Members of the Hartford Senators, 1916.

A dismal first half of the 1916 season led to the release of Heine Wagner and a veteran gaffer, Jesse Burkett was appointed player-manager in his place. One day at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, the Hartford club was visited by soon-to-be Commissioner of Baseball, Judge Kenesaw Landis, famous for settling a lawsuit between the outlaw Federal League and Major League Baseball. Also on hand for the occasion was former Hartford manager Dan O’Neil, who had been appointed President of the Eastern League. The Senators finished the season in last place with a 38-79 record.

1916 Hartford Senators Judge Landis Wethersfield Avenue Grounds — Hartford Senators & Judge Kenesaw Landis (standing, center), Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, Hartford, 1916.

1916 Jesse Burkett Hartford Senators — Jesse Burkett, Hartford Senators, 1916.

Lefty Goldberg, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1916.

In 1917, the Senators were managed by Boston native Louis Pieper who oversaw one of Hartford’s worst seasons. His pitching staff included Dave Keefe, a journeyman later picked by Connie Mack’s Philadelphia Athletics, as well as workhorses Ralph Head and Fred Trautman. Their catcher, Bill Skaff appeared in his second season in Hartford. The team’s top hitters were shortstop, Roy Grimes and an Amherst College graduate named Eddie Goodridge from Bristol, Connecticut. Despite strong fan support, the club suffered a .359 winning percentage.

1917 Fred Trautman Hartford Senators — Fred Trautman, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1917.

1917 Hartford Senators Stuffy Carroll and Roy Grimes — “Stuffy” Carroll, Catcher & Roy Grimes, Shortstop, Hartford Senators, 1917.

1917 Hartford Senators Tencate and Liston — Emil Liston & Tencate, Hartford Senators, 1917.

The following year, another forgettable Eastern League season awaited Hartford. Owner Clarkin’s squad was headed by captain and player-manager, Gus Gardella. The club relied on pitchers Orlie Weaver, Andy Meyerjack and Glenn Cook. Their catcher Joe Briger hit .308 on the year. However, the 1917 season was cut short when the United States entered World War I. Every man in the nation was ordered to work or fight and as a result, the Eastern League disbanded in mid-July of 1918.

1918 May 20 Two Big Cogs in Senators Inner Works — Infielders of the Hartford Senators, 1918.

Andy Meyerjack, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1918.

The Eastern League returned in 1919. The circuit was upgraded to Class-A status, a step below the Major Leagues. Two-time World Series champion, Danny Murphy became Hartford’s manager. However, a month into the season, James Clarkin abruptly fired Murphy and appointed shortstop Roy Grimes as player-manager. Frank Brazill, a corner infielder led batters with a .360 average in 225 at bats. Local star Eddie Goodridge returned to man first base after serving in the military. Though, the Senators struggled to keep opponents off the base paths, and the club landed in last place.

1919 Men who Will Direct Hartfords Efforts in the Eastern League — Management of the Hartford Senators, 1919.

1919 Hartford Senators Battery George Casazza and Mickey Flaherty — George Casazza, Pitcher and Mickey Flaherty, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1919.

1919 Hartford Senators Team Photo — 1919 Hartford Senators

1919 May Richard J. Kinsella First Pitch — Mayor Richard J. Kinsella tosses first pitch, 1919.

1919 Danny Murphy Hartford Senators Manager — Danny Murphy, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1919.

1919 Jun 8 Joe Baker Hartford Senators — Joe Baker, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1919.

1919 Hartford Senators — L to R: Warren Adams, Roy Grimes, Frank Brazill (kneeling), Eddie Goodridge and Urban S. Williams of the Hartford Senators, 1919.

Reacting to another bungled season, James Clarkin turned the club upside down. With the exception of Ralph Head and Willie Adams, the entire 1920 Senators roster consisted of new players. Dan Howley was hired as manager and emergency catcher. Fred Bailey, a 24 year old outfielder and former Boston Braves prospect hit .303. George “Kewpie” Pennington had a 2.54 earned run average and won 16 of Hartford’s 70 wins. The club rose to fourth place, finishing only eight games behind first place New Haven.

1920 James H. Clarkin Hartford Senators — James H. Clarkin, Owner, Hartford Senators, 1920.

1920 Rex Cox Hartford Senators — Rex Cox, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1920.

1920 Hartford Senators Clarence Pickup and Ralph Head — Clarence Pickup, Outfielder and Ralph Head, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1920.

1920 George Pennington Hartford Senators — George “Kewpie” Pennington, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1920.

In 1921, owner Clarkin replaced the Wethersfield Avenue Grounds with a new venue. It was an elite venue of the minor leagues; with a grandstand made of steel and concrete, clubhouses and modern amenities. After fifteen years as owner, Clarkin doubled-down on his investment, even though winning was in short supply. The new facility became known as Clarkin Stadium (or Clarkin Field). Along with Providence, Hartford was the most coveted franchise in the Eastern League because of its central location and passionate fanbase. However, the stadium would not be ready for Opening Day and the Senators played their first two weeks on the road.

1921 Clarkin Field Hartford Baseball scaled — Clarkin Stadium, 1921.

Clarkin Stadium produced a higher level of baseball in Hartford. Legendary old-timer and 1884 World Series winner, Arthur Irwin accepted managerial duties and changed the franchise forever. Irwin scouted a 17 year old first baseman from Columbia University named Lou Gehrig. As a rookie phenom, Gehrig played a dozen games for the Senators in 1921. He assumed two different names, “Lefty Gehrig” and “Lou Lewis” presumably in an attempt to retain amateur status on his return to college. Gehrig would return Hartford but unfortunately the man who lured him to Connecticut would meet an untimely demise.

1921 Apr 7 Hartford Senators Snapped at Hackensack Camp — Players of the Hartford Senators, 1921.

1922 Lou Gehrig Columbia Baseball — Lou Gehrig, Hartford Senators, 1921.

On July 16, 1921, Hartford’s ailing manager, Arthur Irwin, jumped from the steamship Calvin Austin on a voyage from New York to Boston and perished. Former Hartford manager Thomas Dowd of the near-championship 1908 club was Irwin’s replacement. Dowd’s recurring role only lasted a month, and the team’s veteran catcher and 3-time World Series champion, Chester “Pinch” Thomas was appointed player-manager by August. One of the top performing Senators of 1921 was outfielder Hinkey Haines, who played a minor role on the New York Yankees during their 1923 World Series championship run.

1908 Thomas Dowd Hartford Senators Manager — Thomas J. Dowd, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1921.

1913 Arthur Irwin and Frank Chance — Arthur Irwin (left) photographed in 1913.

1921 Clarkin Field James Crowley Albert House Umpire James Clarkin Samuel Doty — L to R: James Crowley, Albert House, James Clarkin and Samuel Doty at Clarkin Stadium, 1921.

Connie Mack came to Hartford on a scouting trip near the end of the 1921 season and purchased Heinie Scheer. Mack and the Philadelphia Athletics offered Clarkin $5,000 for Scheer, a sure-handed, fleet of foot infielder. Scheer refused to go to Philadelphia unless Clarkin gave him a percentage of his transfer fee. Following a fifth place finish, owner Clarkin spoke to reporters and declared his frustration with major league clubs who poached his players.

1921 Fred Bailey and Phil Neher Hartford Senators — Fred Bailey, Outfielder and Phil Neher, Shortstop, Hartford Senators, 1921.

1921 Apr 18 Hinkey Haines Hartford Senators — Hinkey Haines, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1921.

In 1922, owner Clarkin signed world-famous Native American olympian, Jim Thorpe. In his brief time with the Senators, Thorpe crushed Eastern League pitching. His stint in Hartford would only last about six weeks. Upon being traded to Worcester, Thorpe criticized Clarkin’s methods, saying that he was pressured by Clarkin to more hit home runs. A few days after being traded, Thorpe led Worcester to two wins in a doubleheader over Hartford.

1922 Clarkin Field Hartford Senators — Hartford Courant pictorial of the Hartford Senators, 1922.

1922 Jul 1 Jim Thorpe Signed by Hartford Chicago Eagle scaled — Jim Thorpe, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1922.

At the helm of the Senators during the Thorpe fiasco was a 35 year old player-manager, Jack Coffey. The club’s left fielder was Leo “Brick” Kane who achieved a third consecutive Eastern League season with 100 hits. Hartford had a rookie right fielder, Sy Rosenthal, who went on to play for 13 years in organized baseball. At third base was Ted Hauk, a fixture in Hartford’s lineup. The Senators of 1922 failed more often than they succeeded (73-76) and sunk to sixth in the standings.

1922 Jun 12 Leo 22Brick22 Kane Hartford Senators — Leo “Brick” Kane, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1922.

1921 Jack Coffey Hartford Senators Baseball Manager scaled — Jack Coffey, Player-Manager, Hartford Senators, 1922.

Hartford’s lone constant, their owner James Clarkin hired a new manager in 1923. Paddy O’Connor, a former Senators catcher and a trusted baseball mind was paid a salary exceeding all other Eastern League managers. The club also welcomed back Lou Gehrig from Columbia University for 59 games. The budding star was 19 years old when he swatted a league record 24 home runs. Gehrig was a one man wrecking crew who led Hartford to the 1923 pennant. The Senators copped their first Eastern League title with a .640 winning percentage.

1923 Hartford Senators Lou Gehrig Clarkin Field — 1923 Harford Senators – Owner James Clarkin (standing, center) and Lou Gehrig (seated, center).

1923 Sep 30 Hartford Senators Eastern League Pennant — Hartford Senators, Eastern League Champions, 1923.

1923 Paddy OConnor Hartford Senators — Paddy O’Connor, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1923.

As champions, the Senators entered the 1924 season teeming with confidence. Lou Gehrig’s game continued to mature as he tore up the Eastern League with 37 homers in 504 at bats and a .369 batting average. Gehrig’s prolific days in Hartford ended when the New York Yankees called him up and went 6 for 12 in 10 games. Another standout Senator was second baseman Henry “Smudge” Demoe who smacked 184 hits, fifth most in 1924. Hartford ended the season in third place, just four games back from the pennant winners, the Waterbury Brasscos.

1923 Ted Hauk Hartford Senators — Ted Hauk, Third Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1924.

1924 Nov 14 Carl Schmehl Hartford Senators — Carl Schmehl, Utility, Hartford Senators, 1924.

1923 Lou Gehrig Hartford Senators Clarkin Field — Lou Gehrig, First Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1924.

1924 Hartford Senators Booster Club — Senators Booster Club Membership Card signed by Lou Gehrig, 1924.

1924 Hartford Senators Ticket Stub — Ticket stubs from Hartford Senators game, 1924.

1924 Frank 22Smudge22 Demoe Hartford Senators — Henry “Smudge” Demoe, Second Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1924.

The next season brought another star player to Hartford. Leo Durocher attended his first tryout with the Senators in April of 1925. Manager Paddy O’Connor was impressed with Durocher’s defensive talent and quickness at shortstop. As a rookie, Durocher batted only .220, but he compiled a .933 fielding percentage. On August 16, 1925, “Leo the Lip” was purchased by the New York Yankees for $12,000. Durocher had played 151 games in Hartford before reporting to the Yankees.

1925 Apr 8 Hartford Senators Leo Durocher 1 scaled — Leo Durocher (center), Infielder, Hartford Senators, 1925.

Meanwhile, Hartford’s Tom Comiskey and Harry Hesse finished among Eastern League leaders in hits. Lem Owen and Earl Johnson were reliable starting arms for the Senators. The heart and soul of the team was their catcher, Eddie Kenna who played 144 games. Marty Shay was their second baseman and leadoff man. Henri Rondeau, a journeyman outfielder born in Danielson, Connecticut, batted .306. Hartford nearly captured the 1925 title, though the Waterbury Brasscos outperformed them by a game and a half.

1925 Paddy OConnor Hartford Senators — Paddy O’Connor, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1925.

1925 Manager Paddy OConnor Hartford Senators and Bob Emmerich Albany Lawmakers — Paddy O’Connor shakes hands with Bill McCorry, Manager, Albany, 1925.

1925 Eddie Kenna Hartford Senators — Eddie Kenna

In 1926, Clarkin hired former Hartford catcher Si McDonald to direct the club. Their relationship turned sour quickly and McDonald was fired in late May. Second baseman Gene Sheriden was appointed manager. The Senators finished towards the bottom of the standings but had bright spots on the season. Adolph Schinkle, a pitcher converted into an outfielder, led the Eastern League in doubles and slapped 195 hits. George Brown and John Miller were the club’s top pitchers who ranked among league leaders in earned run average.

1926 Bob Mitchell Hartford Senators — Bob Mitchell Hartford Senators, 1926.

1926 George Krahe Hartford Senators — George Krahe, Shortstop, Hartford Senators, 1926.

1926 Tom Comiskey Hartford Senators — Tom Comiskey, Hartford Senators, 1926.

1925 Adolph Schinkle Hartford Senators 1 — Adolph Schinkle, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1926.

1926 Aug 4 Hartford Senators 22Cowboy22 Ken Jones — “Cowboy” Ken Jones, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1926.

1926 Hartford Senators George Kane 1 — George Kane, Infielder, Hartford Senators, 1926.

1926 Gene Sheriden Player Manager Hartford Senators — Gene Sheridan, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1926.

1926 Clifford Knox Hartford Senators — Clifford Knox, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1926.

An accidental fire torched the Clarkin Stadium grandstand in the off-season of 1927, so the Senators played home games at Trinity College and in Manchester while repairs were made. When the new grandstand was constructed, President of the Eastern League, Herman Weisman rewarded James Clarkin, for his diligent efforts, with a gold stickpin and cufflinks encrusted with diamonds. Looking on was Hartford’s new manager, a longtime big leaguer, Kitty Bransfield. First baseman Jim Keesey proved to be a prospect, pacing the Eastern League with 204 hits on the season, while Adolph Schinkle had 203 hits.

1927 Jul 16 James H. Clarkin Stadium Hartford Senators Mayor Norman Stevens edited — James H. Clarkin (left) listens to President Herman Weisman (center) of the Eastern League and Mayor Norman Stevens throws ceremonial first pitch at Clarkin Stadium, 1927.

1927 Hartford Senators Clarkin Field Opening Day scaled — Opening Day at Clarkin Stadium, Hartford, 1927.

1927 Manager Kitty Bransfield Hartford Senators — Kitty Bransfield, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1927.

During the 1927 season, Kiddo Davis was stationed in Hartford’s outfield. He batted .349 and went on to become a World Series champion in 1933 with the New York Giants. Jo-Jo Morrissey was also a cog in the outfield, playing his second season with the Senators. An infielder from Cuba named Eusebio González played 25 games and was Hartford’s first player of color since Jim Thorpe. Clarence “Lefty” Thomas was the club’s top performing pitcher, but the rest of the pitching staff struggled mightily, and the Senators ended up in sixth place.

1927 Joe Morrissey Hartford Senators — Jo-Jo Morrissey, Infielder, Hartford Senators, 1927.

1927 Art Butler Hartford Senators — Art Butler, Infielder, Hartford Senators, 1927.

In the winter of 1928, James Clarkin decided to retire from baseball. During his 25 years as proprietor, he led Hartford to three pennants. Clarkin was a stern, no-nonsense businessman who had drawn the ire of some players and fans. However, according to his former manager, Jack Coffey, he had “many endearing qualities hidden from those who did not know him intimately.” When new ownership took over, Clarkin Stadium was renamed Bulkeley Stadium in honor of Morgan G. Bulkeley, a prominent Hartford figure, the first President of the National League, and a former U.S. Senator and Governor of Connecticut, who had passed away in 1922.

1928 James H. Clarkin Hartford Senators — James H. Clarkin retires, 1928.

1928 Bulkeley Stadium Seating — Bulkeley Stadium, Hartford, 1928.

1928 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Connecticut — Bulkeley Stadium, Hartford, Connecticut, 1928.

Hartford’s new ownership was spearheaded by Robert J. Farrell, a real estate developer. The purchase price for the franchise and the stadium property was reported to be $200,000. Farrell created a private stock company made up of investors and they expanded the grandstand at Bulkeley Stadium. John A. Danaher was hired to be the club’s secretary to handle administrative duties. The buyout reinforced the common opinion of the day – that Hartford was a celebrated baseball city. In preparation for the 1928 season, the Hartford Senators reintroduced the fan favorite, Paddy O’Connor as manager.

1928 Robert J. Farrell Hartford Senators — Robert J. Farrell, President, Hartford Senators, 1928

1928 Seeking to Put Hartford on the Baseball Map Robert Farrell James Dillon Senators — Board of Directors, Hartford Baseball Club, 1928.

1928 Apr 18 Hartford Senators Shep Cannon Bill Eisemann — Opening Day batter for the Hartford Senators, 1928.

1928 Mayor Norman Stevens Hartford Bulkeley Stadium — Mayor Norman Stevens throws first pitch, 1928.

1928 Bulkeley Stadium Mayor Norman Stevens and Bob Farrell — Mayor Norman Stevens (left) and Bob Farrell, Owner, Hartford Senators, 1928.

During the 1928 campaign, John “Bunny” Roser was Hartford’s newest and most valuable slugger. He earned the league home run title with 27 round-trippers. At second base, Scott Slayback demonstrated a capable bat with 10 homers. A southpaw pitcher named Russ Van Atta threw for a marvelous 2.49 earned run average before being called up by the New York Yankees. Carl Schmehl and Tom Comiskey played their final seasons in Hartford, and the club placed third in the 1928 Eastern League.

1928 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Senators Catcher William Eisemann — William Eisemann, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1928.

1928 Apr 19 One Flash of Action in Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Senators — Skee Watson, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1928.

1928 Dominique Paiement Hartford Senators — Dominique Paiement, Infielder, Hartford Senators, 1928.

1928 Pete Stack Hartford Senators — Pete Stack, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1928.

1928 Heine Scheer Hartford Senators — Heine Scheer, Infielder, Hartford Senators, 1928.

1928 Jack Levy Hartford Senators — Jack Levy, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1928.

1928 John Styborkski Hartford Senators — John Styborski, Pitcher Hartford Senators, 1928.

Going into the 1929 season, the Senators made a splash in the press when they signed a 2-time World Series champion, Heinie Groh as player-manager. The club then resigned their former second baseman of 1921, Heinie Scheer. Corner outfielder John Roser hit another 25 home runs while his counterpart Bill Hohman mashed 24 long balls. Utility man Skee Watson had a brilliant year at the plate, hitting for a .324 average in 593 at bats. Mike Martineck batted .337 and replaced Groh as player-manager in late August.

1929 Heine Groh and Robert J. Farrell Hartford Senatorsjpg — Heinie Groh and Robert J. Farrell, Hartford Senators, 1929.

The Senators would struggle to pitch effectively throughout the year. Their best hurler was 5’8″ Dan Woodman who threw 236 innings with a 3.74 earned run average and a 13-14 win-loss record. Local amateur pitchers, Sam Hyman and Johnny Michaels received professional contracts, making several key appearances on the mound. Their starting catcher, Joe Smith had a solid defensive and offensive season. However, adequate individual performances did not translate into a successful 1929 campaign, and Hartford ended the year in last place.

1929 Apr 11 Hartford Senators Players — Players of the Hartford Senators, 1929.

1929 Hartford Senators — Infielders of the Hartford Senators, 1929.

1929 Johnny Roser Hartford Senators — Johnny Roser, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1929.

1929 Gary Fortune Pitcher Hartford Senators — Gary Fortune, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1929.

1929 Walter Brown Hartford Senators — Walter Brown, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1929.

1929 Sam Hyman Hartford Senators — Sam Hyman, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1929.

1929 Hiene Groh Hartford Senators — Heinie Groh, Third Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1929.

1929 Joe Smith Hartford Senators — Joe Smith, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1929.

1929 Shep Cannon Hartford Senators — Shep Cannon, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1929.

On May 23, 1930, fans witnessed an exhibition between the Senators and Connie Mack’s Philadelphia Athletics at Bulkeley Stadium. Because of an illness Mack was not present, but Commissioner Landis attended as a guest of Mayor Walter Batterson. That same season, rookie first baseman and future Hall of Fame inductee Hank Greenberg played 17 games for the Senators. Baseball was a welcome spectacle during tough economic times of the Great Depression, though Hartford’s season would be cut short. The club folded on June 30, 1930, due to financial insolvency. New Haven, Pittsfield and Providence also halted operations, reducing the Eastern League to four clubs.

1930 Hartford Senators with Judge Kenesaw Landis Bulkeley Stadium — The Hartford Senators with Mayor Batterson and Judge Kenesaw Mountain Landis, 1930.

1930 Judge Kennesaw Landis and Mayor Batterson — Judge Kenesaw Landis and Mayor Walter Batterson, 1930.

1930 Ori Corella Hartford Senators — Oriental Corella, Second Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1930.

1930 Bernie Hewitt Bill Cooper Hartford Senators — Bernie Hewitt, First Baseman and Bill Cooper, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1930.

1930 Tom Mullen Hartford Senators — Tom Mullen, First Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1930.

1930 Feb 2 Roland J. Utley Hartford Senators Treasurer — Raymond J. Utley, Treasurer, Hartford Senators, 1930.

1930 Joe Malay Hartford Senators — Joe Malay, First Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1930.

1930 King Bader Hartford Senators — King Bader, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1930.

1930 Skee Watson Hartford Senators — Skee Watson, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1930.

1930 Apr 17 Bill Hohman Hartford Senators — Bill Hohman, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1930.

By spring of 1931, the Eastern League returned with eight clubs, including Hartford with new ownership. Bob Farrell sold the Senators to the Brooklyn Dodgers organization. Dodgers business manager, Dave Driscoll became president of the Hartford affiliate from his office in Brooklyn. Driscoll sent Earl Mann to run operations as business manager of the Senators. 27 year old Charles Moore was chosen as manager and backup catcher. Paul Richards was the starting catcher, team leader in home runs and later became a known as a genius inventor (patented the “Iron Mike” pitching machine). Hartford’s best overall hitter was Red Howell, who finished fourth in the league in batting average.

1931 Hartford Senators Management — Management of the Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Feb 28 Future Hartford Senators Maybe Van Mungo 1 — Future Players of the Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Infielders of the Hartford Senators — Infielders of the Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Earl Mattingly Hartford Senators — Earl Mattingly, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Norman Sitts Hartford Senators — Norman Sitts, First Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1931.

1932 Red Howell Hartford Senators Eastern League — Red Howell, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Hartford Senators Albert W. Keane scaled — Hartford Courant report by Albert W. Keane, 1931.

1931 Max Rosenfeld Hartford Senators — Max Rosenfeld, Infielder, Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Bobby Reis Hartford Senators — Bobby Reis, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Camp Courant Hartford Senators — Hartford Senators visit Camp Courant, 1931.

Hartford dominated the Eastern League in 1931, winning 97 of 137 games. They captured the pennant on the backs of superior pitching and eleven players who had big league experience. The Senators received seven Eastern League All-Star selections: Bob Parham, Bobby Reis, Paul Richards, Van Mungo, Earl Mattingly Jr. and Phil Gallivan. Most distinguished among them was Van Mungo who later earned five National League All-Star selections. Johnny Mann and Al Cohen were also major contributors to the team’s championship run. The 1931 Hartford Senators are recognized as one of the 100 greatest minor league teams of all time.

1931 Paul Richards Hartford Senators — Paul Richards, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Bob Parnham Hartford Senators — Bob Parham, First Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Alta Cohen Hartford Senators — Al Cohen, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1931.

1931 Hartford Senators Team Photo — 1931 Hartford Senators

Hartford’s 1932 season began with an unfurling of the Eastern League pennant at Bulkeley Stadium. Business manager Earl Mann did the honors and posed for the cameras. Charles Moore was rehired as field manager, yet when the Dodgers requested that he coach their Jersey City affiliate, Moore obliged. The Senators named shortstop Bill Marlotte player-manager even though first baseman and captain Norman Sitts was presumed to take the role. Before the managerial move, the Senators were four games back from first place. After Moore left, Hartford sank to the bottom of the standings.

1931 Harford Senators Eastern League Champions — Earl Mann, Business Manager, Hartford Senators unfurls the pennant on Opening Day, 1932.

1932 Charley Moore Hartford Senators — Charley Moore, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1932.

Notable Hartford Senators of 1932 include: Red Howell who batted .349, Bruce Caldwell, a Yale University graduate, Jim Henry, a rookie pitcher and Byron Topol, a little-known third baseman. Veteran players Johnny Mann, Eddie Kenna and Pinky Pittenger played their last seasons in Hartford. Yet waning interest and continued economic woes hampered ticket revenues. Club owners met in New York City and voted to fold the league. On July 18, 1932, the Hartford Courant reported the demise of the Eastern League due to poor attendance.

1932 Bill Marlotte Hartford Senators Eastern League — Bill Marlotte

1932 Al Kimbrel Hartford Senators Eastern League — Al Kimbrel, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1932.

1932 Mar 30 Roy Humphries Hartford Senators — Roy Humphries, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1932.

1932 Phil Gallivan Hartford Senators — Phil Gallivan, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1932.

1932 Apr 4 Dave Cochlin Hartford Senators — Dave Cochlin, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1932.

1932 Johnny Mann Hartford Senators Eastern League — Johnny Mann, Utility, Hartford Senators, 1932.

1932 Jim Henry Hartford Senators — Jim Henry, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1932.

1932 Eddie Kunsberg Hartford Senators — Eddie Kunsberg, Pitcher/First Baseman, Hartford Senators 1932.

1932 Bulkeley Stadium Allentown vs Hartford Senators scaled — Allentown vs. Hartford Senators at Bulkeley Stadium, 1932.

There would be no minor league baseball in Hartford during the year of 1933. Instead, a local jeweler named Bill Savitt rented Bulkeley Stadium and staged his semi-professional Savitt Gems against professional and independent clubs. Not until 1934 did the Senators restart operations in the newly formed Northeastern League. Johnny Roser settled in again as the club’s power-hitter. A 38 year old first baseman named Snake Henry had a brilliant year at the plate. Hartford had talent, but they lacked consistency. Three different managers attempted to steer the team, who finished in fourth place.

1934 May 17 Mayor Beach First Pitch Northeastern League Hartford Senators — Mayor Beach tosses the first pitch at Opening Day, Hartford, 1934.

1934 Lee Kulas Hartford Senators — Lee Kulas, Infielder, Hartford Senators, 1934.

1934 Fred Henry Hartford Senators — Fred Henry, Player-Manager, Hartford Senators, 1934.

1934 Johnny Roser Hartford Senators — Johnny Roser, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1934.

1934 Emil Planeta Hartford Senators — Emil Planeta, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1934.

1934 Pepper Rea Hartford Senators — Pepper Rea, Third Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1934.

1934 Jim Clark Hartford Senators — Jim Clark, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1934.

1934 Bob Walsh Hartford Senators — Bob Walsh, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1934.

1934 Jan 24 Dr. Edward Baker Hartford Senators — Dr. Edward Baker, Shortstop, Hartford Senators, 1934.

Sources

Hartford Courant database on Newspapers.com
SABR Bio Project – Danny Murphy
SABR Bio Project – Lou Gehrig
Statscrew.com

Thu. 04/08/21Wed. 04/03/24 by Administrator

Lou Gehrig Used Fake Name as a Rookie on the Hartford Senators

This article was written by Norton Chellgren and published in the 1975 Baseball Research Journal

On April 5, 1921, the Hartford Senators of the Eastern League in their first exhibition game of the season beat Columbia University 4-3. The big story was a Columbia player, Lefty Gehrig, who hit Hartford pitcher Alton Durgin for two long home runs in his only two trips to the plate. A. B. McGinley of the Hartford Times described the second home run like this: “When he came up again in the 3rd inning, Durgin the lofty Maine boy who was pitching for Hartford was all set for revenge. He got a strike on Gehrig but the next one he threw Gehrig leaned on and it went sailing out of the enclosure past a big sundial and almost into the School of Mines. It was a mighty clout and worthy of Babe Ruth’s best handiwork.”

The young player greatly impressed Hartford Manager, Arthur Irwin, a former major league player and manager. The two home runs would have cleared the center field fence at Clarkin Stadium, Hartford’s home park, and Irwin saw a promising future for the young baseball player. The big first baseman, it was later reported, had promised Irwin that he would play under him if he decided to enter professional baseball.

Several big league teams had been trying to sign him but all indications were he would stay at Columbia University. Subsequently, on June 2, announcement was made by Manager Irwin in the local newspapers that the hard hitting semi-pro from Brooklyn, Lefty Gehrig, had been signed to play first base for the Senators. It was assumed by some that he had decided to quit school.

1913 Arthur Irwin Baseball Manager — Arthur Irwin, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1921.

The next day the newspapers were apparently requested or advised not to call further attention to the Columbia athlete’s real name and from that day on they referred only to that young player from New York, “Lewis” or “Lou Lewis.” On June 3 (1921) the Hartford Senators beat the Pittsfield Hillies 2-1. Lou Lewis played the full game at first base. In his O. B. debut, he was 0 for 3 with one sacrifice hit against Pittsfield hurler Al Pierotti, who later went up to the Braves.

1923 Lou Gehrig Columbia — Lou Gehrig batting for Columbia University, 1921.

After that initial game the Hartford Courant wrote “Lou Lewis, Arthur Irwin’s latest discovery was planted on the initial sack. The youngster who is only 18 years old (actually he was still 17) appeared to be a bit nervous. After he gets used to surroundings he may develop. They seldom fail to make the grade with Irwin teaching the ways of baseball.”

1921 Lou Gehrig Hartford Senators Hartford Courant Excerpt GHTBL — Hartford Courant excerpt, June 8, 1921.

Lewis’ first hit and first run scored came in his second game as Hartford beat the Waterbury Brasscos 5-3 at Hartford before 5,000 fans on June 4. In the second inning the youthful first sacker hit the first ball pitched by Fred Rawley to right field for three bases. He scored shortly after when the next batter Phil Neher singled to center. On the following day, June 5, Lewis went two for five as Hartford beat Albany 10-2 at Albany; the first baseman was beginning to impress and was being touted as a “Babe Ruth.”

1922 Lou Gehrig Football Columbia — Lou Gehrig, Punter, Columbia University, 1922.

Hartford beat Pittsfield 10-6 on June 8, and the Times wrote: “Lewis caught hold of a fast one in the third inning and sent it against the “B” in the Buick sign on the right field fence for a double. Lewis probably won’t get a Buick for his clout but he may get a ride in one before the season runs its course.” Lou went two for five that day. One of the times he made an out he slammed a terrific drive that traveled at the proverbial mile-a-minute clip into right fielder Bill McCorry’s gloved hand. It was described as the hardest hit of the game.

1922 Sep 26 Lou Gehrig Hartford Senators 1 — Hartford Courant excerpt, September 26, 1922.

While Lewis at the young age of 17 was demonstrating his ability to knock the cover off the ball there were some indications that he lacked experience. On June 10 the Senators were trailing the Bridgeport “Brown Derbies” in the last of the ninth when with one out Heinie Scheer singled. Lewis then hit one to the box carrying a lot of smoke and it bounded off pitcher Ed Lepard’s glove for a single. Lewis a moment later was trapped off first by catcher Joe Smith on a pitchout. The rally was effectively stopped and the game was lost by Hartford, 4 to 2.

1928 Heine Scheer Hartford Senators 1 — Heine Scheer, Hartford Senators

The Times wrote on June 11, “Lewis the youngster just breaking into organized ball with the local club is doing as well as one can expect and his present work gives fans here hopes that he will add to the Hartford hitting average which at present is the weakest link in the pennant-winning chain. The young first sacker is a slugger.” Lefty Lewis unexplainedly did not play in the Bridgeport game on June 13 but the next day against the Springfield Ponies he hit the second triple of his early professional experience.

1921 Jun 16 Lou Lewis Gehrig Last Hartford Senators Game — Lou Gehrig “Lewis” plays his last game of 1921.

In his last Eastern League game that year, on June 15, 1921, against Springfield, he showed his power even though his only hit was an infield one. In the first inning he crashed one against third baseman Jack Flynn’s shins and the ball caromed off with such force that it bounced across the diamond and the runner on third base, Harry Hesse, scored without any trouble.

1923 Harry Hesse Hartford Senators — Harry Hesse, Hartford Senators, 1922.

No game was played on June 16 and at that point the young first baseman’s name, without explanation, ceased to appear in the Hartford papers for the remainder of the season. During his stay Hartford, winning 8 games and losing 5, had climbed into first place with a 28-17 record. Before the season was to end the Hartford Senators would drop to fifth place and its Manager, Art Irwin who had been successful in luring the young first baseman into professional baseball, if only for a short 12 games, would meet an untimely death. On July 16, 1921, he fell or jumped from the steamer Calvin Austin during a voyage from New York to Boston.

1923 Lou Gehrig Hartford Senators — Lou Gehrig, Hartford Senators, 1923.

Even with a mediocre batting average of .261, Lewis had given Hartford fans an indication of things to come. The name “Lou Lewis” would not again appear in a Hartford or other professional baseball game box score! “Lou,” however, would return to the Eastern League in 1923 (as of August 2) and hit home runs at a pace which still has not been surpassed in the Eastern League, 24 home runs in only 59 games.

1923 Hartford Senators Lou Gehrig Clarkin Field 1 scaled — 1923 Hartford Senators

What the Hartford newspapers did not report was that Columbia athletic officials had learned that Gehrig was playing pro ball under an assumed name. After being advised of the possible implications of playing for money, an unhappy Lou Gehrig returned promptly to New York City. As a result of this escapade Lou had to wait an extra year, until the fall of 1922, before he could participate in Columbia inter-collegiate sports. The experience might have hurt the New York Giants as well because had it never taken place, who knows, McGraw might have been able to sign up Lou Gehrig in 1923 instead.

1924 Lou Gehrig and Mayor Stevens 1 — Lou Gehrig and Mayor Norman Stevens of Hartford, 1924.

Source: Chellgren, Norton. “The Short Career of Lou Lewis.” Society for American Baseball Research, 1975 Baseball Research Journal, 1975, sabr.org/journal/article/the-short-career-of-lou-lewis.

1927 Leo Durocher and Babe Ruth New York Yankees

Wed. 03/31/21Tue. 07/13/21 by Weston Ulbrich

Leo Durocher Got His Start in Hartford

Leo Ernest Durocher was born in 1905 in West Springfield, Massachusetts, as the youngest of four sons. His parents with French Canadian parents were George and Clarinda (Provost) Durocher and often spoke French at home. George Durocher worked on the railroad, for the Boston & Albany Railroad. At 5-feet-10, he grew to be the tallest of his brothers. His French-Canadian parents. Durocher dropped out of Springfield Technical High School after being suspended and never went back. Instead, he became a prominent semi-professional athlete and several employers competed to have him play for their company teams.

According to baseball historian Paul Dickson, Durocher was convinced to try for a professional club, the Hartford Senators:

“There’s a guy named David Redd, who’s a black man, who pushes and pushes and pushes Durocher to go try out for the Hartford team, which in those days was a semi-Yankee farm club,” Dickson says. “And Durocher does. Tries, fails once.”
Paul Dickson – WBUR, Robinson And Durocher’s Complicated — And Changing — Relationship

1925 Apr 8 Hartford Senators Leo Durocher

Having failed, Durocher was again encouraged to try out for the 1925 season again by his friend, David Redd. This time, he made the team and batted for an average of .220 in 536 at bats that season. As an infielder for Hartford, Durocher learned and grew his game under Manager Paddy O’Connor, a baseball lifer and former catcher of the 1909 World Series winning Pittsburgh Pirates. Durocher showed promise in Hartford under the lights at Clarkin Stadium and was called up to the New York Yankees lineup for 2 game appearances.

1925 Hartford Senators Sell Leo Durocher — Leo Durocher is sold to the Yankees, 1925.

It would take two seasons in the Yankees farm system – Atlanta, Georgia and St. Paul, Minnesota – before his permanent call-up to the big leagues in 1928. He won his first World Series that same year as a teammate of Babe Ruth and another Hartford Senators alumnus, Lou Gehrig. Durocher would become known as one of baseball’s fiercest players and would achieve team and individual success.

As a captain of the St. Louis Cardinals “Gashouse Gang” in 1934, Durocher started shortstop and won another World Series. He also collected three National League All-Star game appearances. After the 1938 season with the Cardinals, Durocher became the Dodgers’ player-manager. In 1939, Durocher was named player-manager for the Dodgers and quickly became known for his dirt-kicking tirades against umpires. He also clashed with Brooklyn’s front office and claimed that he was fired and rehired by general manager Larry McPhail dozens of times.

In 24 years as a skipper for the Brooklyn Dodgers, New York Giants, Chicago Cubs and Houston Astros, Durocher won 2,009 games, three pennants and a World Series. However, Durocher also became famous for his arguments with umpires, executives and players earned him a reputation as “The Lip.” His nickname was thought to have stemmed from his relationship with another diminutive Hall of Famer: Rabbit Maranville. While not an imposing hitter, Durocher’s scrappy play and maximum effort led Babe Ruth to call him “The All-American out.”

1941 Leo Durocher Brooklyn Dodgers — Leo Durocher, Manager, Brooklyn Dodgers, 1941.

Despite his antics, there was no doubt about Durocher’s record. In 1941, Durocher led the Dodgers, who were affectionately named “the Bums” by their own fans, to the franchise’s first pennant in 21 years.

“As long as I’ve got a chance to beat you, I’m going to take it.”
Leo Durocher, 1941.

In 1947, Commissioner Happy Chandler suspended Durocher for a year due to his “accumulation of unpleasant incidents” which included his accused association with gamblers. Led by Jackie Robinson, who Durocher staunchly supported when he broke the color barrier, the Dodgers captured the ’47 National League pennant.

In 1948, Durocher shocked the baseball world when he became manager of the Dodgers’ crosstown rival New York Giants – who he had famously referred to when he remarked that “nice guys finish last.” It was at the Polo Grounds where Durocher found his greatest success. In 1951, his Giants capped off an incredible 13½ game comeback on the Dodgers with Bobby Thomson’s famous “Shot Heard ’Round the World” homer to win the pennant. Three years later, Durocher and the Giants swept the heavily favored Cleveland Indians in the 1954 World Series.

1950 May 14 Mrs. Durocher Combines Business and Baseball — Durocher with his wife, Laraine, Day, 1950.

Durocher left New York after the 1955 season and became a color commentator for NBC’s baseball broadcasts. He returned to the manager’s office with the Cubs in 1966 and served his final nine seasons in Chicago and Houston. Durocher retired in 1973 as the fifth-winningest manager in history, and second only to Hall of Famer John McGraw in the National League.

1951 Casey Stengel and Leo Durocher — Casey Stengel, Manager, New York Yankees and Leo Durocher, Manager, New York Giants, 1951 World Series.

Upon his retirement, he ranked fifth all-time among managers with 2,009 career victories, second only to John McGraw in National League history. In 1965, Durocher co-authored an autobiography entitled, Nice Guys Finish Last. He lived a long life but passed away on October 7, 1991. Leo Durocher was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 1994.

Leo Durocher Los Angeles Dodgers — Leo Durocher

Sources

WBUR, Robinson And Durocher’s Complicated — And Changing — Relationship.
Hartford Courant Database, Newspapers.com.
Baseball-Reference.com, Baseball-Reference.com.
Durocher, Leo, Baseball Hall of Fame, Baseballhall.org/Hall-of-Famers/Durocher-Leo.

Sun. 12/06/20Sun. 07/17/22 by Weston Ulbrich

Jim Thorpe, Gold Medalist & Hartford Ballplayer

James Francis Thorpe was the greatest all-around athlete of The Deadball Era. In addition to playing five Major League seasons, he was a superstar football player as well as an Olympic gold medalist. Battling bigotry and discrimination, Jim Thorpe rose to stardom with perseverance and defiance. Unknown to many locals today, the 6’1” 185 lbs sportsman brought his talents to Hartford, Connecticut, on several occasions.

1912 Jim Thorpe Olympics — Jim Thorpe at Stockholm Olympics, 1912.

Born on May 28, 1887, Thorpe was a member of the Sauk and Fox Nation of the Oklahoma Territory. His Native American name was Wa-Tho-Huck (Bright Path or Path Lit by Lightning). As a youngster, he attended Haskell Indian School in Lawrence, Kansas, and then Carlisle Indian School in Pennsylvania. He played halfback on the Carlisle football team under coach Pop Warner and was selected by Walter Camp to the 1911 and 1912 All-American teams.

1913 New York GIants Jim Thorpe scaled — 1913 New York Giants with Jim Thorpe (3rd row, middle).

At the 1912 Stockholm Olympic Games, Thorpe won the decathlon and pentathlon by wide margins. Sweden’s King Gustav told him, “Sir, you are the greatest athlete in the world.” However in 1913 an investigation by the Amateur Athletic Union claimed Thorpe to be ineligible because he played professional baseball in 1909 and 1910. During those years, Thorpe did earn $2 per game in the Eastern Carolina League as an outfielder and pitcher. He was subsequently stripped of his gold medals.

1915 John Meyers and Jim Thorpe Baseball — Jack Meyers and Jim Thorpe (right), 1915.

Thereafter, Thorpe signed a three-year contract for $6,000 per season to play with John McGraw’s New York Giants. As a rookie, Thorpe recorded 19 games, a home run and two stolen bases as the club captured the 1913 National League pennant. He was a bench player for the Giants. They loaned him to the Cincinnati Reds in April of 1917. Thorpe was recalled to New York in August, and the Giants won another league title. Manager McGraw gave Thorpe a larger role in 1918 when he hit .248 in 58 games.

1915 Jim Thorpe New York Giants — 1915 New York Giants with Jim Thorpe (3rd from right).

After complaining about playing time and refusing to be mistreatment, Thorpe was traded to the Boston Braves in 1919. The 32 year old began to hit his stride, batting .327 with 25 RBI and 7 stolen bases for the Braves. After Boston, Thorpe continued his career with five different minor league clubs including Hartford. All the while, Thorpe played professional football in the offseason. From 1920 to 1921, Thorpe was nominally appointed as first President of the American Professional Football Association, later becoming the National Football League.

1917 Jim Thorpe Cincinnati Reds — Jim Thorpe, Outfielder, Cincinnati Reds, 1917.

Then, Thorpe was released from the Portland, Oregon, baseball club of the Pacific Coast League. So in June of 1922, he was picked up by James H. Clarkin, owner of the Hartford Senators. Thorpe immediately traveled to across the country with his family who settled at 34 Lancaster Road, West Hartford. As a Senator, Thorpe crushed Eastern League pitching, however his stint in Hartford would only last about six weeks.

1922 Jun 15 Jim Thorpe Hartford Senators Debut — Thorpe’s Hartford Senators debut, June 15, 1922.

On July 12, 1922, Thorpe played center field in a doubleheader at New Haven’s Weiss Park. He had a bad day. “Thorpe was plain awful. He had dropped a fly ball, muffed a grounder and failed to hustle after a ball hit in the gap. New Haven’s fans were all over him, abusing him mercilessly with racist taunts. News accounts were equally childish and bigoted in context. One report cited Thorpe’s performance as ‘an imitation of a wooden Indian chasing flies.”

Seething with anger, “Thorpe promptly changed out of his baseball uniform into his street clothes. He emerged from the clubhouse and charged into the grandstand to confront the New Haven hecklers, saying he wasn’t ‘going to stand for the impertinence of the fans.‘ Thorpe never threw a punch. Teammates persuaded him to return to the clubhouse before any fighting broke out. Police were called to the scene, though no arrests were made.”1

Thorpe was fined $50 by the Eastern League and $50 by the Hartford club. In early August, he was released by owner Clarkin. Thorpe finished the year with the Fitchburg-Worcester club, and his .344 batting average was second in the Eastern League. He also hit 9 home runs in 96 total games played, but the year 1922 marked Thorpe’s final season in professional baseball.

Unfortunately for Thorpe, his athletic fame did not result in a lasting fortune. He drifted from one public relations exploit to the next and wrestled with alcoholism. The famous athlete worked part-time as a painter, bouncer and ditch digger. His football career kept him solvent. Thorpe often came back to Connecticut to face professional football squads such as the short-lived Hartford Blues. He retired from football in 1928, but continued to make baseball cameos throughout the country.

1925 Jim Thorpe Football Player — Jim Thorpe in football uniform, c. 1925.

In 1933, Thorpe came back to Hartford as a player-manager of the Oklahoma Indians, a barnstorming team also dubbed Harjo’s Indians. At the time, many athletes of color embellished their racial characteristics and adopted stereotypes in order to maximize profits. During the month of August, thousands of fans witnessed a five game series at Hartford’s Bulkeley Stadium between the Oklahoma Indians and the Savitt Gems, a local independent team.

1933 Jim Thorpe Harjos Indians — Jim Thorpe, Manager, Harjo’s Indians, 1933.

Thorpe began the first of five games as third base coach. He then manned right field midway through the game. On a fly ball by Jackie Cronin of the Gems, Thorpe made contact with the ball near the foul line. Umpire John Muldoon called the hit fair but Thorpe vehemently disagreed. He pulled his team off the field and demanded the umpires to be dismissed before resuming play. The umpires were replaced by players from each team and the game continued.

1933 Aug 6 Jim Thorpe Oklahoma Indians Play in Hartford vs. Savitt Gems — Hartford Courant, August 6, 1933.

The Savitt Gems eventually won the series 3 games to 2, and Hartford baseball fans saw a good show. Later, Savitt Gems owner Bill Savitt would question whether or not Thorpe’s antics were intentional. Perhaps he overreacted to rile up the crowd, thereby attracting more fans to Bulkeley Stadium. After all, the crowd did double in size from about 3,000 to about 6,000 at their next matchup. Thorpe, ever the showman, led the Indians in staged war dances between games.

1933 Jim Thorpe Harjos Indians Oklahoma scaled — 1933 Oklahoma Indians (Harjo’s Indians)

In 1950, Jim Thorpe was named America’s top athlete of the half century by the Associated Press, beating out Babe Ruth. By then Thorpe had appeared in more than 70 Hollywood films. A biographical film entitled Jim Thorpe – All-American produced by Warner Bros. and starring Burt Lancaster was released in 1951. On March 28, 1953, Jim Thorpe died of a heart attack in Lomita, California at the age of 65.

In 1982, the International Olympic Committee restored Thorpe’s two gold medals and they were presented to surviving family members. Then in a bizarre twist, Thorpe’s widow, (his third wife) Patricia, sold his remains to the cities of Mauch Chunk and East Mauch Chunk, Pennsylvania. The two towns combined to create Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania, where he is now laid to rest, though he never visited the place during his lifetime. Thorpe’s children led an effort to return their father to the Sauk and Fox Nation in Oklahoma but lost a lawsuit in 2014.

Jim Thorpe Tomb and Statue Jim Thorpe PA scaled — Jim Thorpe’s tomb and statue in Jim Thorpe, Pennsylvania.

Most recently, in 2022, Thorpe’s 1912 Olympic gold medals were reinstated after 75,847 Signatures Helped Restore Jim Thorpe’s Place in Olympic History.

See the full story here: https://nativenewsonline.net/opinion/how-75-847-signatures-helped-restore-jim-thorpe-s-place-in-olympic-history.

Sources

Thorpe Efforts

Fri. 12/04/20Thu. 10/23/25 by Weston Ulbrich

Hartford’s Minor League Club Part II: The Senators (1902-1915)

The Hartford Senators remain Connecticut’s most enduring baseball franchise of all-time. For more than three decades (1902-1934) the Senators were Hartford’s headliner club. The minor league team became an elite training ground for players on their way to the Major Leagues. Legends like Lou Gehrig, Jim Thorpe, Leo Durocher and Hank Greenberg honed their skills in Hartford.

This chronology recounts the Senators during their early years (1902-1915), when minor league championships were a source of local pride. Since the start of organized baseball, the City of Hartford had been deprived of a championship pennant, but the Senators would change that.

Minor Leagues

Connecticut League (1902-1912)
Eastern Association (1913-1914)
Colonial League (1915)

Championship Seasons

1909
1913
1915

Notable Hartford Senators of the early years

Ira Thomas, Catcher (1902-1903)
Bill Foxen, Pitcher (1904-1905)
Jack Lelivelt, First Baseman (1907)
Ray Fisher, Pitcher (1908-1909)
Hugh High, Outfielder (1911-1912)
Benny Kauff, Outfielder (1913)
Jim Delahanty, Player-manager (1915)

In 1902, Hartford joined the Connecticut League behind their club owner, Charles A. Soby. The team was headquartered at Soby’s cigar store at 867 Main Street. Home games were held at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, also called Hartford Baseball Park. They likely drew the nickname “Senators” from sports editors at the Hartford Times newspaper.

1901 Charles Soby Hartford Base Ball Association — Charles A. Soby, Owner, Hartford Senators, 1902.

Two-time World Series champion catcher of the Philadelphia Phillies, Ira Thomas played his rookie season for the Senators. Frank “Doc” Reisling was Hartford’s player-manager and guided them to a fourth place finish. Reisling later sued the club over unpaid wages after being fired for recruiting players to a team in Toledo, Ohio.

1902 Ira Thomas Hartford Senators — Ira Thomas, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1902.

Doc Reisling, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1902.

In 1903, the Hartford franchise was purchased by magnates William J. Tracy of Bristol and Thomas Reilly of Meriden. They rejoined the Connecticut League and Reilly acted as manager. The team consisted of a fresh roster, except for Ira Thomas who returned as catcher. New signees were Walter Ahearn of New Haven, Bill Luby of Meriden and Billy Derwin of Waterbury. The infield featured Larry Battam at third base and captain Bert Daly at second base. They struggled in a rebuild year and ended up last in the league.

1903 Thomas L. Reilly Manager Hartford Senators — Thomas Reilly, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1903.

1903 Walter Ahearn Hartford Senators — Walter Ahearn, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1903.

1905 Dr. Burton Daly Hartford Senators — Dr. Bert Daly, Second Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1903.

1903 Bill Luby Hartford Senators Baseball Player — Bill Luby, First Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1903.

Before the 1904 season, Thomas Reilly was elected Mayor of Meriden and sold his shares in the Hartford club to William J. Tracy. As sole owner of the Senators (and later President of the Connecticut League), Tracy appointed his friend and Bristol-based barber John E. Kennedy as manager. The only regular to reappear the following season was second baseman Bert Daly. Bill Foxen, Bill Karns and Tom Bannon entered the fold but the Senators had a losing record (53-61).

1906 William J. Tracy President Connecticut Baseball League — William Tracy, Owner, Hartford Senators, 1904.

1904 Apr 23 Thomas OHare Hartford Senators — Thomas O’Hare, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1904.

1905 John E. Kennedy Hartford Senators Manager — John E. Kennedy, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1904.

1904 Hartford Senators Team Photo scaled — 1904 Hartford Senators

September of 1904 marked the era of James H. Clarkin, proprietor of the Senators for the next 24 years. Tracy decided to sell the club, and Clarkin and Daly stepped in. Clarkin leased Wethersfield Avenue Grounds for the six years at $600 per year. Hartford fans took special trolleys to a well-kept and a well-respected Wethersfield Avenue Grounds. Stars of the team were pitching prospect, Pete Wilson of Springfield, Massachusetts, and shortstop Harry Noyes of New Haven, Connecticut. In Clarkin’s first season as owner, the 1905 Senators turned in a winning record (58-55).

1905 Owner Tracy Sells Hartford Ball Team — Hartford Courant excerpt, 1905.

1905 Hartford Base Ball Club Connecticut League — Lajoie’s Base Ball Guide excerpt, 1905.

1905 Peter Wilson Hartford Senators 1 — Peter Wilson, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1905.

1905 Harry Noyes Shortstop Hartford Senators — Harry Noyes, Shortstop, Hartford Senators, 1905.

1905 Neal Doherty Hartford Senators — Neal Doherty, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1905.

1905 Frank Doran Catcher Hartford Senators — Frank Doran, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1905.

1906 Glastonbury Line Trolley to Ball Game — Hartford trolley assigned for ball games, 1905.

In the offseason, Clarkin sold his top pitcher William Foxen to Providence for $250. The sale of Foxen was the first of many transacted by Clarkin, who acquired a reputation for selling top players. In 1906, Bert Daly served as player-manager until midway through the season, when he left to practice medicine in his hometown in Bayonne, New Jersey. Clarkin became sole owner and Harry Noyes was named player-manager. Hartford signed Herman Bronkie of Manchester, Connecticut, a rookie third baseman who later made his American League debut with the Cleveland Naps.

1906 Hartford Senators Baseball — 1906 Hartford Senators

1906 Group of Three Hartford Players — Group of Three Hartford Players, 1906.

1906 Hartford Senators Baseball Players — New players on the Hartford Senators, 1906.

1906 Hartford Senators Baseball Club Photo Connecticut League — 1906 Hartford Senators

1906 Bert Daly Hartford Senators Base Ball — Bert Daly, Player-Manager, Hartford, 1906.

1906 The Hartford Baseball Team — 1906 Hartford Senators

Despite another lackluster season, Hartford retained its core. Harry Noyes held on as player-manager and Pete Wilson returned as ace. Career minor leaguers Charlie Fallon, Ed Justice and Billy Luyster came back, while newcomers included first baseman Jack Rothfuss and outfielder Izzy Hoffman. Owner Clarkin recruited all-time minor leaguer a Dutch immigrant and an , Jack Lelivelt on a tip from Philadelphia manager Connie Mack. That year, Clarkin offered the Senators a $100 bonus for a five game win streak. While popular with players, the bonus scheme failed and Hartford finished fifth in the Connecticut League.

1907 Hartford Senators Baseball New Players — Three New Hartford Players, 1907.

1907 William Luyster Pitcher Hartford Senators — Billy Luyster, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1907.

1907 Jack Lelivelt Hartford Senators Baseball — Jack Lelivelt, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1907.

1907 Izzy Hoffman Hartford Senators Outfielder — Izzy Hoffman, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1907.

Proprietor Clarkin sought to retool Hartford by hiring veteran leadership for 1908. During the offseason, Thomas Dowd, a big league journeyman and assumed managerial duties and all baseball operations. Dowd lured players such as Ray Fisher, a pitching phenom, Hank Schumann, a reliable strike-thrower and Bob Connery, a muscle-bound first baseman. There was also Earle Gardner, a second basemen destined for the New York Yankees and Chick Evans, an 18 year old who threw a perfect game for the Senators on July 21, 1908. Hartford had its finest team to date, but lost to Springfield by a half game in the last days of the season.

1908 Hartford Senators Baseball New Players — New Hartford Senators, 1908.

1908 Hartford Baseball Team — 1908 Hartford Senators

1908 Hartford Base Ball Grounds scaled — Hartford Senators at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, 1908.

A disappointing conclusion to Hartford’s 1908 season lit a fire under the Senators in 1909. Clarkin appointed Bob Connery player-manager in place of Thomas Dowd who reportedly struggled with alcoholism. New additions Jimmy Hart and Jack Wanner led the squad in batting. With masterful pitching and defense, Connery’s crew captured first place. Hartford outlasted second place Holyoke and finally won their first championship. On September 13, 1909, the Senators were honored with a parade on Main Street, a ceremony outside Connecticut’s Old State House, a musical performance at Hartford Theater and a late night banquet at Hotel Garde.

1909 Hartford Senators, Connecticut League Champions.

1909 Hartford Senators Team Photo — 1909 Hartford Senators

1909 Jack Wanner Hartford Senators — Johnny Wanner, Second Baseman, Hartford, 1909.

1909 Hartford Senators Baseball Players at Park — Quartet of players, Hartford Senators, 1909.

1909 Mike Wadleigh Catcher Hartford Senators — Michael Wadleigh, Catcher, Hartford, 1909.

1909 Apr 7 Hartford Senators Yesterdays Additions to Baseball Squad — New players for the Hartford Senators, 1909.

1910 George Metzger Hartford Senators Baseball — George Metzger, Third Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1909.

1909 Hartford Senators Team Photo James Clarkin — 1909 Hartford Senators, Connecticut League Champions.

In 1910, the Senators were the envy of the Connecticut League. A pennant flag flew over the pristine Hartford Baseball Park. The venue had a smooth playing surface, player clubhouses and concession stands. Meanwhile, Clarkin further delegated his duties by creating the Hartford Baseball Club Board of Strategy. The group devised plans and scouted players like pitchers Buck O’Brien and Carl Lundgren. Though it was player-manager Bob Connery who picked up a rookie from St. Louis, Wally Rehg who was later dubbed the world’s sassiest player. Amid high expectations, the Senators underachieved to fourth place – six games behind first place Waterbury.

1910 Hartford Senators Baseball Squad First Days Workout — First day’s workout, Hartford Senators, 1910.

1910 Hartford Senators Baseball Club Workout Connecticut League — Senators at Hartford Baseball Park, 1910.

1910 Hartford Senators 1 — 1910 Hartford Senators

1910 John Vann First Baseman Hartford Senators — John Vann, First Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1910.

1910 Walter Regh Hartford Senators — Walter Rehg, Utility, Hartford Senators, 1910.

1910 Buck OBrien Pitcher Hartford Senators — Buck O’Brien, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1910.

1910 Hartford Baseball Club Board of Strategy — Board of Strategy, Hartford Senators, 1910.

1910 Carl Lundgren Pitcher Hartford Senators — Carl Lundgren, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1910.

Before the 1911 season, Connecticut League officials increased the championship purse from $25 to $100 to attract better talent. That year, rookie outfielder Hugh High rose to local stardom by hitting for a .302 average in 431 at bats. Former Boston Doves pitcher Tom McCarthy only played half of the season, yet he twirled 15 wins. A low point for the club came when they were caught drinking alcohol on a Sunday at Lighthouse Point in New Haven. Arrest warrants were issued for nine Hartford players including manager Connery but the charges were later dropped. The Senators fell short of a title but finished in a respectable third place.

1911 Hartford Senators Baseball Club — 1911 Hartford Senators

1911 Clint Ford Hartford Senators Baseball — Clint Ford, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1911.

1911 Hugh HIgh Hartford Senators — Hugh High, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1911.

1911 Robert Henry Ray Hartford Senators — Robert Henry Ray, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1911.

Nick Lakoff, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1911.

1911 Hartford Senators John Hickey — John Hickey, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1911.

1911 Herman Shincel Hartford Senators Baseball Catcher — Herman Shincel, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1911.

As winter descended on Hartford, Jim Clarkin renewed his lease of the Wethersfield Avenue Grounds for ten more years. He then built the largest grandstand in the league to seat more spectators. When the 1912 season began, Bob Connery suited up for his last managerial campaign. Connery would later discover Rogers Hornsby as a scout for the St. Louis Cardinals. Hartford also added Benny Kauff who batted .321 in 53 games. Hugh High led the Connecticut League with 145 base hits and 5 homers. Si McDonald served as primary catcher and captained Hartford to second place.

1912 New Players on Hartford Senators scaled — New Players of the Hartford Senators, 1912.

1912 Tom Connery Hartford Senators Baseball Club Manager — Bob “Tom” J. Connery, Player-Manager, Hartford Senators, 1912.

1915 Lefty High Hartford Senators — Hugh High, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1912.

1912 Hartford Senators Baseball Players — Members of the Hartford Senators, 1912.

1912 Aug 16 Waterbury vs. Hartford Senators at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds — Waterbury vs. Hartford, 1912.

1912 Si McDonald Hartford Senators — Si McDonald, Catcher, Hartford Senators, 1912.

1912 Bill Powers Hartford Senators — Bill Powers, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1912

At an offseason meeting, President Jim O’Rourke and Connecticut League officials renamed the loop the Eastern Association, reflecting the inclusion of three Massachusetts clubs. In preparation for the 1913 season, the Senators announced Si McDonald as Hartford’s player-manager. Important acquisitions were shortstop, Bill Morley, second baseman, Jim Curry and first baseman, Mickey Keliher. Center fielder Benny Kauff had one of the Senators’ best seasons, leading the league with 176 hits and a .345 batting average. Behind superior hitting and pitching, Hartford won 83 games and another triumphant league championship.

1913 Hartford Senators Baseball Club — 1913 Hartford Senators

1913 Gus Gardella Hartford Senators Baseball Captain — Gus Gardella, Shortstop, Hartford Senators, 1913.

1913 Hartford Senators Team Photo scaled — 1913 Hartford Senators

1913 Eastern Association Standings — Eastern Association final standings, 1913.

Most of Hartford’s title winners appeared again in 1914. Si McDonald became full-time manager while Hartford-born Jack Muldoon was promoted to starting catcher. Eventually McDonald was deposed by owner Clarkin, who assigned the job to a veteran manager, Dan O’Neil. New arrivals Ed Barney and Jack Hoey were Hartford’s most productive hitters. Pitchers Clyde Geist and Fred Rieger carved out brilliant seasons and were among the league leaders in wins. When the Eastern Association wrapped, the Senators had completed a tenth consecutive season with a winning record.

1914 Hartford Senators Baseball Club scaled — 1914 Hartford Senators

1914 Dan ONeil Manager Hartford Senators — Dan O’Neil, Manager, Hartford Senators, 1914.

1915 Maurice Kennedy Hartford Senators — Maurice Kennedy, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1914.

1914 Jimmy Curry Hartford Senators — Jimmy Curry, Second Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1914.

1914 Jack Hoey Hartford Senators Baseball — Jack Hoey, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1914.

1914 Roger Salmon Hartford Senators — Roger Salmon, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1914.

1914 Edward Goeb Hartford Senators Baseball — Ed Goeb, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1914.

1914 Mickey Keliher Hartford Senators Baseball — Mickey Keliher, First Baseman, Hartford Senators, 1914.

1914 Murray Parker Hartford Senators — Murray Parker, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1914.

1914 James Crowley Hartford Senators — James Crowley, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1914.

In 1915, proprietor Clarkin abandoned the Eastern Association. Instead, he entered Hartford into the Colonial League, loosely affiliated with the infamous Federal League. Shortly before the season, 36 year old infielder Jim Delahanty was named player-manager. He mashed a .379 batting average, earned MVP of the league and led the Senators to the Colonial League pennant. Other players on the squad were former Federal Leaguers with the Brooklyn Tip Tops and the Newark Pepper. A mix of outcasts won Hartford its third pennant during a span of six years.

1915 Hartford Senators, L to R: Back Row – Mike Simon, George Textor, Dennis Gillooly, Gus Helfrich, Gil Whitehouse, Aime Proulx and Fred Trautman. Front Row – Blondie Sherman, Henry Demoe, Jim Delahanty, Jack Murray and Ray Werre.

1915 Gil Whitehouse Hartford Senators — Gil Whitehouse, Outfielder, Hartford Senators, 1915.

1915 Clyde Geist Hartford Senators — Clyde Geist, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1915.

1915 Bill Jensen Hartford Senators — Bill Jensen, Pitcher, Hartford Senators, 1915.

1915 Hartfords New York Americans — Hartford Senators on the New York Yankees, 1915.

Sources

Tue. 06/09/20Fri. 05/24/24 by Weston Ulbrich

Hartford’s Minor League Club, Part I: The Hartfords (1878-1901)

Hartford in Minor Leagues:

International League (1878)
Connecticut State League (1884-1885)
Southern New England League (1885)
Eastern League (1886-1887)
Atlantic Association (1889-1890)
Connecticut State League (1891, 1895)
Atlantic League (1896-1898)
Eastern League (1899-1901)

Notable Players:

Connie Mack, Catcher (1885-1886)
Henry Gruber, Pitcher (1885, 1887)
Hugh Duffy, Outfielder (1886)
Steve Brady, Outfielder (1887)
George Stallings, Catcher (1890)
Jackie Cronin, Pitcher (1895)
Billy Barnie, Catcher (1899-1900)
”Wild” Bill Donovan, Pitcher (1900)

Hartford, Connecticut, has been represented by 71 affiliated and unaffiliated minor league baseball clubs. The franchise began when the Hartford Dark Blues of the National League moved to Brooklyn in 1877, leaving the city without a professional team. During an era when teams traveled by train or steamboat, Hartford was an ideal location for organized baseball.

Ben Douglas Jr., a prime mover in forming the Dark Blues, raised $4,000 from shareholders to create Hartford’s first minor league team in 1878. Initially Douglas located the club in Providence, Rhode Island. Then he shifted operations to New Haven but ultimately selected Hartford as the team’s official home.

1877 Hartford Base Ball Grounds Club Colt Park Baseball — Hartford Base Ball Grounds, 1877.

The Hartford Courant referred to the club as The Hartfords. Home games were held at the Base Ball Grounds on Wyllys Avenue. The club joined the International Association after being denied entry into the National League due to the city’s small population (then about 40,000). Though major League caliber players appeared for Hartford in 1878, such as Candy Cummings, Everett Mills, Jack Lynch and Joe Battin, the team was a short-lived entity. The Hartfords were expelled from the league in mid-July after refusing to pay a mandatory guarantee to Buffalo.

1875 Everett Mills Hartford Dark Blues — Everett Mills, First Baseman, Hartford, 1878.

1874 Joe Battin Philadelphia Athletics — Joe Battin, Third Baseman, Hartford, 1878.

1872 Candy Cummings Baseball — Candy Cummings, Pitcher, Hartford, 1878.

Hartford’s first foray into minor league baseball ended on an embarrassing note. Consequently, the city was without a professional franchise for the next five years. Finally in February of 1884, a joint stock corporation called Hartford Base Ball Park Association founded a new team as part of the Connecticut State League. The Hartfords of 1884 played at a new park on Ward Street. Baseball enthusiast and cigar magnate, Charles A. Soby was team manager as well as President of the Connecticut State League. He directed affairs from the Hartford Base Ball Headquarters on Main Street, a leftover base of operations from the days of the Hartford Dark Blues.

1876 Hartford Base Ball Headquarters — Hartford Base Ball Headquarters, 258 Main Street, Hartford, Connecticut, 1884.

In 1885, the Hartfords competed in the Southern New England League of which Soby was again appointed President. Former Dark Blues outfielder, Jack Remsen took over as player-manager. Before becoming a Hall of Fame manager Connie Mack was Hartford’s wiry catcher at 22 years of age. Backup catcher, Tony Murphy was one of the first players to wear a chest protector. Henry Gruber, from Hamden, Connecticut, and Frank Gilmore from Webster, Massachusetts, did most of the pitching. Hartford natives Bill Tobin and Jack Farrell rounded out an underachieving roster who fell short of a championship title.

1900 c. John A. Farrell Hartford Jack — Jack Farrell, Second Baseman, Hartford, 1885.

1887 Henry Gruber Detroit Wolverines — Henry Gruber, Pitcher, Hartford, 1885.

1876 Jack Remsen Hartford Base Ball Club 1 — Jack Remsen, Player-Manager, Hartford, 1885.

1886 Connie Mack Hartford — Connie Mack, Catcher, Hartford, 1885.

The Hartford Base Ball Club of 1886 contended in the first iteration of the Eastern League. They ended up trading Connie Mack midseason to the Washington Nationals. Another Hall of Fame inductee, Hugh Duffy, spent his first professional year in Hartford. After an lackluster season, a new joint stock company assumed ownership of the team. Among investors of the Hartford Amusement Association were the Mayor of Hartford, Morgan G. Bulkeley and author, Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain). The association hired Charles E. Daniels, a professional umpire from Colchester, Connecticut, as manager for the following season.

Investors Bulkeley and Twain backed base ball in Hartford, 1887. — Investors like Bulkeley and Twain back the Hartford club, 1887.

Under Charlie Daniels the 1887 Hartfords fielded their best lineup yet. Steve Brady, former captain of the New York Metropolitans and hometown hero of Hartford, batted .350. Ed Beecher led the league in doubles and Henry Gruber was one of the league’s top aces. “General” James Stafford began his career with Hartford that year. At season’s end, they placed third. The Eastern League disbanded and Hartford was forced to forgo organized play throughout the year of 1888.

1917 Steve Brady Baseball Hartford — Steve Brady, First Baseman, Hartford, 1887.

1894 James 22General22 Stafford New York Giants — General Stafford, Second Baseman, Hartford, 1887.

1903 Ed Beecher Hartford Officials Baseball Team — Ed Beecher, Outfielder, Hartford, 1887.

The Hartfords re-appeared on the minor league scene in 1889 as part of the Atlantic Association. A local man and first time player-manager, John M. Henry recruited Phenomenal Smith and Joe Gerhardt to join up. However the team finished in third place behind Worcester and Newark. After failing to retain top tier players in 1890, they sunk to last place. Third baseman Ezra Sutton and catcher George Stallings were the team’s lone bright spots. A game of particular note came on July 23, 1890, when Hartford’s first game illuminated by “electric light” occured at Ward Street Grounds.

1888 John 22Phenomenal22 Smith Philadelphia Athletics — Phenomenal Smith, Pitcher, Hartford, 1889.

1887 Joe Gerhardt New York Giants — Joe Gerhardt, Second Baseman, Hartford, 1889.

1914 George Stallings Boston Braves — George Stallings, Catcher, Hartford, 1890.

1890 Jul 22 Baltimore vs. Hartford Base Ball by Electric Light — Baltimore vs. Hartford, 1890.

After another mediocre season in the 1891 Connecticut State League, the Hartfords lost favor with fans and investors. The club disbanded and the Panic of 1893 prolonged their absence. Eventually, a new team surfaced in the summer of 1894. John M. Henry, Charlie Daniels, Steve Brady and his brother Jackson Brady formed the Hartford Elks. They were a semi-professional outfit backed by the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks (Lodge #19). Though they featured minor league players, the club operated independently from the Connecticut State League.

John M. Henry, Player-Manager, Hartford, 1894.

In 1895, Hartford reentered the Connecticut State League and operated under the auspices of the Hartford Base Ball and Amusement Association. John M. Henry returned as player-manager one last time. Ed Beecher, an outfielder from Guilford, Connecticut, suited up for his fourth and final season. Both men later became police officers for the City of Hartford. Another local man, John Gunshanan was one of the club’s best hitters. Future major leaguers Jack Cronin and Bill Gannon had brief stints with the Hartfords of 1895. Despite big league prospects, a pennant continued to elude the city.

1913 John Gunshanan Hartford — John Gunshanan, Outfielder, Hartford, 1895.

1902 Jack Cronin New York Giants — Jack Cronin, Pitcher, Hartford, 1895.

The Hartfords came close to an Atlantic League championship in its inaugural season. In 1896, former Hartford player, Billy Barnie, purchased the club with a group of investors. He served as Hartford’s manager and garnered enough support to build a new ballpark on the west side of Wethersfield Avenue (later becoming Clarkin Stadium and then Bulkeley Stadium). Also nicknamed the Hartford Bluebirds, the club was captained by Bob Pettit, a utility man from Williamstown, Massachusetts. Everyday players like John Thornton and Reddy Mack lifted Hartford atop the standings and in a tight race with Newark.

1887 Joe 22Reddy22 Mack Louisville — Reddy Mack, Second Baseman, Hartford, 1896.

When Newark finished in first, Hartford protested the decision. Manager Barnie argued that Newark’s record was unfairly inflated due to a dozen extra games played. Newark also used a suspended pitcher named Joseph Frye who had left Hartford midway through the season. As a result, the second place Hartfords challenged Newark to a 7-game series dubbed the Soby Cup sponsored by Charles Soby. Newark declined the invitation though third place Paterson accepted and Paterson won the Soby Cup. By November of 1896, the matter was put to rest by Sam Crane, President of the Atlantic League who declared Newark as champions.

1896 Soby Cup Hartford — The Soby Cup, 1896.

1896 Sep 26 Base Ball Soby Cup Series — Soby Cup Series, 1896.

1920 Charles Soby Hartford — Charles Soby of Hartford

1911 Sam Crane Baseball Journalist — Sam Crane, Atlantic League President, 1896.

When the club returned to the Atlantic League in 1897, Billy Barnie had left to manage the Brooklyn Bridegrooms. Brooklyn’s most well known batsman, Thomas “Oyster” Burns became player-manager. Tom Vickery, Cy Bowen and Hank Gastright were moundsmen for Hartford. Veteran big leaguers Lefty Marr and Paul Radford manned center field and shortstop. They won 78 games but finished third place yet again. On the final day of the season, the players presented a commemorative diamond ring to their beloved manager, Oyster Burns.

1896 Cy Bowen New York Giants — Cy Bowen, Pitcher, Hartford, 1897.

1889 Thomas 22Oyster22 Burns Brooklyn Bridegrooms — Oyster Burns, Outfielder, Hartford, 1897.

In 1898 executives of the Hartford baseball club hired veteran major leaguer Bill Traffley as manager, but Traffley was unpopular with players. He was accused of pocketing gate receipts and he relinquished his role halfway through the season to their catcher, Mike Roach. The Hartfords adopted a cooperative system to evenly disperse gate earnings among players. Therefore the team became known as the Hartford Cooperatives. Arlie Latham, an 1886 World Series champion and baseball’s first showman comedian, guarded third base for the Cooperatives – who descended to sixth place in the Atlantic League.

1898 To Buy Hartford Club Barnie — Hartford Courant excerpt, 1898.

1909 Arlie Latham New York Giants — Arlie Latham, Third Baseman, Hartford, 1898.

1887 Bill Traffley Des Moines — Bill Traffley, Manager, Hartford, 1898.

Towards the end of the 1898 season Billy Barnie purchased ownership of the Hartfords once more. Even though Barnie was manager of the Springfields at the time, Hartford fans were delighted to have him back. Barnie’s Hartfords enrolled in the Eastern League of 1899. He signed several players from the Brooklyn Bridegrooms, including William Shindle who led the team in hitting. Tuck Turner was their star right fielder. For a 24-game stretch, the lineup featured Louis Sockalexis, the first Native American to play professionally. The club compiled 50 wins and 56 losses, finishing seventh place in the Eastern League.

1899 Biff Sheehan Hartford Baseball — Biff Sheehan, Outfielder, Hartford, 1899.

1889 Louis Sockalexis Hartford Baseball Club — Louis Sockalexis, Outfielder, Hartford, 1899.

1895 Billy Shindle Baseball — William Shindle, Player-Manager, Hartford, 1899.

At the turn of the century, Charles Soby reprised his role as Hartford’s preeminent baseball magnate. On May 21, 1900, Soby led a group of 44 shareholders who raised $3,250 to establish the Hartford Baseball Corporation. The club partnered with New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad Company to create special rates and train schedules on game days. The team secured two pitchers destined for stardom, “Wild” Bill Donovan and George Hemming. Tragically, Manager Billy Barnie died of pneumonia on July 15, 1900. He was revered in Hartford as baseball’s most tenured manager and as catcher for Hartford in 1874 and 1878.

1895 c. Billy Barnie — Billy Barnie, Manager, Hartford, 1900.

1900 Hartford Base Ball Club Donovan and Shindle scaled — Hartford Baseball Club, 1900.

1894 George Hemming New York Giants — George Hemming, Pitcher, Hartford, 1900.

1908 Wild Bill Donovan Detroit Tigers — “Wild” Bill Donovan, Pitcher, Hartford, 1900.

In place of Barnie, William Shindle assumed managerial duties for the remainder of the 1900 season. The team’s performance was respectable. “Wild” Bill Donovan achieved league highs in wins and strikeouts. Though it would not be enough for a pennant, and the Hartfords settled for third place in the Eastern League. The next season Shindle stayed on as manager. Most of the 1901 club was made up of players on the last leg of their careers. George Shoch, a veteran pitcher ended his 20-year career with Hartford. The club fell to sixth out of eight teams in the final standings.

1901 Sep 6 Baseball Hartford vs. Brockton Wethersfield Avenue Grounds — Hartford vs. Brockton, 1901.

1890 George Shoch Milwaukee Baseball — George Shoch, Pitcher, Hartford, 1901.

After more than 20 years in the minors without a championship, Hartford’s proud baseball community refused to be discouraged. A minor league team would represent Hartford off and on for the next 5 decades. On August 17, 1925, Hartford players of yore were celebrated at Bulkeley Stadium. Connie Mack, Frank Gilmore, John M. Henry and Ed Beecher attended an exhibition game between Mack’s Philadelphia Athletics and a Hartford All-Star team featuring local pitching ace, Lem Owen. In a ceremony before the game, Gilmore gifted Mack a new set of golf clubs and the Hartfords of old received their last ovation from a crowd of 6,000 fans.

1925 Aug 17 Connie Mack Frank Gilmore Ed Beecher John Henry Wethersfield Avenue Grounds Philadelphia Athletics vs. Greater Hartford All Stars — Connie Mack, Frank Gilmore, John M. Henry and Ed Beecher at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, Hartford, August 17, 1925.

Sources

Hartford Courant database on Newspapers.com
StatsCrew.com

1940 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Connecticut

Sat. 06/15/19Fri. 03/07/25 by Weston Ulbrich

Bulkeley Stadium, Gone But Not Forgotten

Morgan G. Bulkeley Stadium

Former names: Wethersfield Avenue Grounds (Hartford Baseball Park) from 1901-1921. Clarkin Field (Clarkin Stadium) from 1921-1927.
Location: Hanmer Street & George Street, off of Franklin Avenue in Hartford, Connecticut.
Capacity: 12,500
Opened: 1928
Demolished: 1955
Tenants: Hartford Baseball Club (1902-1932, 1934, 1938-1945), Hartford Blues Football Club (1925-1927), Savitt Gems (1932-1945) and Hartford Chiefs (1946-1952).

1928 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Connecticut 2 — Bulkeley Stadium, Hartford, Connecticut, 1928.

Morgan G. Bulkeley Stadium was a celebrated sports venue in Hartford, Connecticut, best known as the site of Babe Ruth’s final appearance. The stadium set the stage for countless minor league matchups and a diverse array of sporting events, allowing Hartford to host major league icons and rising amateur talents from around the world. Originally built in 1921 as Clarkin Field, it was renamed in 1928 to honor Morgan Gardner Bulkeley, former Connecticut Governor, United States Senator and first President of the National League.

1911 Morgan G. Bulkeley — Morgan Gardner Bulkeley, 1911.

The stadium was the primary home of the Hartford Baseball Club, a minor league club known by several different names over the years: Senators, Bees, Laurels, and eventually, Chiefs. Semi-professional teams like the Savitt Gems and the Hartford Indians attracted fans to the ballpark in the 1930s and 1940s. During off seasons, the facility featured the Hartford Blues of the National Football League, nationally sanctioned boxing matches, motor sports and artistic performances.

2004 Hartford Connecticut Baseball Park Map 2 — Map of baseball venues throughout Hartford’s history, 2004.

The story of Bulkeley Stadium originates a block to the east at Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, also referred to as Hartford Baseball Park or the Hartford Grounds. The diamond was built in March of 1896, by Hartford Baseball Club owner and manager, William Barnie. Then in 1905, James H. Clarkin purchased the team and leased Wethersfield Avenue Grounds. At that time, the Hartford Courant praised the playing surface as “the finest in this section of the country.”

After a few renovations to Wethersfield Avenue Grounds, owner Clarkin financed a new stadium a stone’s throw away. The new site was located at the intersection of Hanmer Street and George Street off of Franklin Avenue in South Hartford. Clarkin’s grandstand, made of steel and concrete, wrapped around the field from foul pole to foul pole. Locker rooms below the stands were equipped with showers, baths, and telephones. The park opened in 1921, dubbed Clarkin Field (also called Clarkin Stadium).

1921 Clarkin Field New Baseball Park Stands Erected By Local Company 1 — Clarkin Field, 1921.

1921 Clarkin Field Blueprint — Clarkin Field blueprint, 1921.

1921 Clarkin Field Hartford Baseball 2 — The new Clarkin Field, 1921.

1921 Aug 21 Hartford Police Game at Clarkin Field John M. Henry — Hartford Police defeat Waterbury Police, Clarkin Field, 1921.

Clarkin’s field gained a reputation as one of New England’s top ballparks that drew world class players. The stadium played a significant role in Lou Gehrig’s early professional career with Hartford in 1921, 1923, and 1924. To skirt collegiate eligibility rules, Gehrig played under the guise of a pseudonym, Lou Lewis, before leading the Senators to the 1923 Eastern League pennant. Clarkin Field also hosted Jim Thorpe, the renowned Native American Olympian and football star, when he briefly joined the Senators during his final professional season. Other Hartford players in the 1920s included Leo Durocher, Jo-Jo Morrissey, Kiddo Davis and Pete Appleton.

1923 Hartford Senators Lou Gehrig — Hartford Senators with Lou Gehrig (seated, center), Eastern League Champions, Clarkin Field, 1923.

1923 Lou Gehrig Hartford Senators Clarkin Field 1 — Lou Gehrig at Clarkin Field, 1923.

1925 Opening Day Mayor Stevens Hartford Senators — Opening Day at Clarkin Field, 1925.

1926 Hartford Blues Football Clarkin Field — Hartford Blues Football, 1926.

In 1927, an accidental fire severely damaged the grandstand at Clarkin Field. The stadium was rebuilt two months later while the Hartford Senators played all of their games on the road until mid-July. Perhaps because of losses incurred by the fire, Clarkin decided to retire from baseball. He sold the team and Clarkin Field and the Senators in 1928 for over $200,000 to a group of local investors.

1928 James H. Clarkin Hartford Senators 2 — James H. Clarkin, 1928.

The new owners were spearheaded by Robert J. Farrell, a real estate and insurance agent who had been the team’s business manager. Under Farrell’s stewardship, Hartford remained a contender in the Eastern League. Ahead of the 1928 season, Clarkin Field was renamed Bulkeley Stadium to honor Morgan G. Bulkeley, the prominent political figure who had died six years earlier. The venue saw several upgrades, including the addition of steel seating. Though Farrell’s tenure as president was cut tragically short when he unexpectedly passed in 1930, at the age of 32, due to acute appendicitis.

1928 Pirates at Bulkeley Stadium — Pittsburgh Pirates visit Bulkeley Stadium, 1928.

1929 Bulkeley Stadium Boxing Bat Battalino Eddie Lord 1 — Bulkeley Stadium boxing, Bat Battalino vs. Eddie Lord, 1929.

1930 Robert J. Farrell Hartford Baseball Owner Dies — Robert J. Farrell, 1930.

In 1930, future Hall of Fame inductee Hank Greenberg suited up for the Senators at Bulkeley Stadium, and King Bader served as manager. Amid the Great Depression, the club was sold once more – this time to the Brooklyn Dodgers organization, marking Hartford’s entry into affiliated baseball. The team thrived in 1931, clinching the Eastern League championship with standout performances from Red Howell, Al Cohen and Bobby Reis. However, when the Eastern League folded midway through the 1932 season, Bulkeley Stadium lost its marquee baseball team.

1930 Hartford Senators with Judge Kennisaw Landis Bulkeley Stadium scaled — Hartford Senators with Judge Kenesaw Landis, 1930.

1931 May 1 Bulkeley Stadium Just Before the Battle Hartford Senators — Hartford vs. New Haven, Bulkeley Stadium, 1931.

1931 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Courant Game — Hartford Courant reporters play at Bulkeley Stadium, 1930.

1932 Bulkeley Stadium Allentown vs Hartford Senators — Hartford vs. Allentown at Bulkeley Stadium, 1932.

The void at Bulkeley Stadium was filled in July of 1932 by the Savitt Gems, a semi-pro team from the Hartford Twilight League. The Gems were sponsored by Bill Savitt, a well-known jeweler and sports promoter. With Bulkeley Stadium as their home, the Gems became one of America’s most celebrated semi-pro teams. Between 1932 and 1945, Savitt and his Gems brought an impressive lineup of legends to Hartford: Babe Ruth, Cy Young, Ted Williams, Honus Wagner, Lloyd Waner, Dizzy Dean, Jimmie Foxx, Jim Thorpe, Chief Bender, Josh Gibson, Martin Dihigo, Satchel Paige, Johnny Taylor, Johnny Mize, Bill McKechnie, Moose Swaney and Monk Dubiel.

1932 Savitt Inc. Bulkeley Stadium Hartford — Bulkeley Stadium Official Scorecard, 1932.

1932 Aug 19 Baseball Bulkeley Stadium — Savitt Gems vs. New Britain Falcons at Bulkeley Stadium, 1932.

1932 Savitt Gems Bulkeley Stadium — Bill Savitt & the Savitt Gems, Bulkeley Stadium, 1932.

1932 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Twilight 1 — Bulkeley Stadium, 1932.

1933 Aug 25 Bulkeley Stadium Pirates — Savitt Gems vs. Pittsburgh Pirates, 1933.

1933 Jimmy Foxx at Bulkeley Stadium — Jimmy Foxx at Bulkeley Stadium, 1933.

1934 Johnny Taylor Savitt Gems — Johnny Taylor pitches for the Savitt Gems at Bulkeley Stadium, 1934.

1935 Exciting Action at Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Racing — Motorcycle racing at Bulkeley Stadium, 1935.

1936 Hartford Baseball Bulkeley Stadium Savitt Gems vs. St. Louis Cardinals 1 — Bulkeley Stadium, 1936.

1936 Savitt Gems Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Connecticut — 1936 Savitt Gems at Bulkeley Stadium.

1936 Dizzy Dean Bill Savitt Bulkeley Stadium — Bill Savitt & Dizzy Dean at Bulkeley Stadium, 1936.

1937 Cleveland Indians vs Savitt Gems Bulkeley Stadium — Savitt Gems vs. Cleveland Indians, 1937.

In 1938, the Boston Bees of the National League brought minor league ball back to Hartford. They purchased the Senators, leased Bulkeley Stadium and appointed General Manager Charles Blossfield to oversee. The team was referred to as the Hartford Senators, Hartford Bees and Hartford Laurels. During the 1942 season, Del Bissonette served as player-manager while eventual Hall of Fame pitcher, Warren Spahn earned 17 wins and 12 losses. Then, due to brilliant pitching by Hal Schacker and Pete Naktenis, a former Savitt Gems ace, Hartford raised the 1944 Eastern League pennant at Bulkeley Stadium.

1938 Bulkeley Stadium Business Manager Blossfield — Charlie Blossifield & the Hartford Senators (also called Hartford Bees) move into Bulkeley Stadium, 1938.

1938 Hartford Senators Bees vs. Trenton Caps Bulkeley Stadium — Hartford vs. Trenton, Bulkeley Stadium, 1938.

1939 Gene Handley Hartford Senators Bees Bulkeley Stadium — Gene Handley, Hartford Senators, 1939.

1939 Hartford Bees Team Photo — 1939 Hartford Senators, Bulkeley Stadium.

1940 Bulkeley Stadium Bleachers — Bulkeley Stadium, 1940.

1940 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Twilight — Bulkeley Stadium, 1940.

1940 Bill Jackson Hartford Bees Bulkeley Stadium — Hartford vs. Springfield at Bulkeley Stadium, 1940.

1941 Governor Robert A. Hurley Hartford Senators Opening Day Bulkeley Stadium — Governor Hurley on Opening Day, Bulkeley Stadium, 1941.

1942 Hartford Senators Bees Spring Training Morgan G. Bulkeley Stadium — Hartford Senators, Bulkeley Stadium, 1942.

On September 29, 1942, a day after finishing the season with a win over the Yankees, Ted Williams traveled to Hartford to play for the Savitt Gems at Bulkeley Stadium. The Gems faced the New Britain Cremos, featuring Brooklyn Dodgers pitcher Hugh Casey and catcher Mickey Owen. Williams wowed a crowd of 2,500 during batting practice. The game was a pitchers’ duel, with Hartford native Monk Dubiel and Casey holding both teams scoreless through five innings. The Gems broke through with a run in the sixth, but the real fireworks came in the seventh when Williams launched a towering home run off Casey, sealing a 2-1 victory for the Gems.

1942 Sep 28 Ted Williams — Ted Williams at Bulkeley Stadium, 1942.

1944 Bob Brady Hartford Bees Catcher Bulkeley Stadium — Bob Brady, Catcher, Hartford Bees, Bulkeley Stadium, 1944.

1944 Hartford Senators Bulkeley Stadium — Hartford vs. Williamsport, Bulkeley Stadium, 1944.

1944 Hartford Senators Savitt Jewelers Bulkeley — Hartford Baseball Club, Eastern League Champions, Bulkeley Stadium, 1944.

On September 30, 1945, Babe Ruth came to Hartford to play in a charity game at Bulkeley Stadium as a member of the Savitt Gems. At 50 years old, Ruth took batting practice before the game and clouted a home run over the right field fence. He coached first base during the exhibtion and later entered as a pinch-hitter, grounding out to the pitcher. It was Ruth’s final appearance in a game, and he passed away less than three years later.

1945 Savitt Gems Babe Ruth 1 — Babe Ruth plays for Savitt Gems, Bulkeley Stadium, 1945.

1945 Babe Ruth Savitt Gems — Bill Savitt & Babe Ruth at Bulkeley Stadium, 1945.

1945 Babe Ruth At Bulkeley Stadium — Ruth hits home run in batting practice, Bulkeley Stadium, 1945.

In 1946, Hartford’s minor league team changed its name to the Chiefs after their major league affiliate reverted to the Boston Braves. Standout players for the Chiefs at Bulkeley Stadium included Gene Conley, George Crowe, Frank Torre, and Wethersfield native Bob Repass. The team competed in the Eastern League and remained a Braves affiliate for several years. After the Boston Braves moved to Milwaukee following the 1952 season, the Hartford Chiefs also relocated, marking the end professional baseball in city until the Hartford Yard Goats arrived in 2016.

1946 Hartford Chiefs Bulkeley Stadium Official Program — Hartford Chiefs program, 1946.

1947 Former Hartford Chiefs Players with Warren Spahn — Warren Spahn (center, left), Bulkeley Stadium, 1947.

1947 Hartford Chiefs vs. Wilkes Barre at Bulkeley Stadium — Hartford Chiefs vs. Wilkes-Barre, Bulkeley Stadium, 1947.

1947 Dutch Paules Hartford Chiefs Bulkeley Stadium — Hartford Chiefs vs. Trinity College, Bulkeley Stadium, 1947.

1948 Hartford Firemen Who Face New Yorkers — Hartford Fire Department, Bulkeley Stadium, 1948.

1948 Boston Braves vs. Trinity College Bulkeley Stadium — Boston Braves vs. Trinity College, Bulkeley Stadium, 1948.

1949 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Courant All Stars — Hartford Courant All-Stars at Bulkeley Stadium, 1949.

1949 Bulkeley Stadium Boston Braves vs. Boston Red Sox — Boston Braves vs. Boston Braves at Bulkeley Stadium, 1949.

1949 Johnny Taylor Hartford Chiefs — Johnny Taylor, Hartford Chiefs at Bulkeley Stadium, 1949.

1950 George Stirnweiss and Johnny Pesky Bulkeley Stadium — Major League All-Stars vs. Hartford Indians, 1950.

1950 New York Yankees vs. Hartford Indians Bulkeley Stadium 1 — Johnny Mize and Gene Woodling, New York Yankees at Bulkeley Stadium, 1950.

1951 Hugh Casey Brooklyn Dodgers Hartford Indians Bulkeley Stadium 2 — Hugh Casey, Brooklyn Dodgers at Bulkeley Stadium, 1950.

1950 Hartford Chiefs George Crowe Bulkeley Stadium — Hartford Chiefs at Bulkeley Stadium, 1950

1951 Anguish at Bulkeley Stadium Gene Conley — Fans agonize over Gene Conley Bulkeley Stadium, 1951.

1951 Len Pearson Hartford Chiefs Bulkeley Stadium — Len Pearson, Hartford Chiefs, 1951.

1951 Gene Conley Hartford Chiefs Pitcher — Gene Conley, Hartford Chiefs, Bulkeley Stadium, 1951.

1951 Bulkeley Stadium Bob Quinn Ed Walsh Connie Mack — Connie Mack at Bulkeley Stadium, 1951.

1951 Bulkeley Stadium Tommy Holmes Hartford Chiefs 1 — Senators Manager Tommy Holmes teaches clinic, Bulkeley Stadium, 1951.

1951 Blossfield Hartford Chiefs Bulkeley Stadium — Business Manager Charles Blossfield, 1951.

1951 Bulkeley Stadium Hartford Laurelettes — 1951 Hartford Laurelettes

1952 Hartford Chiefs Program Bulkeley Stadium — Hartford Chiefs Program, 1952.

1952 Boston Braves Eddie Matthews Bulkeley Stadium — Eddie Matthews at Bulkeley Stadium, 1952.

1952 Trinity College Bulkeley Stadium — Trinity College Baseball, Bulkeley Stadium, 1952.

1953 Marty Marion Vic Wertz St. Louis Browns Bulkeley Stadium 1 — St. Louis Browns, Bulkeley Stadium, 1953.

1953 Jim Piersall and Joey Jay Bulkeley Stadium — Jim Piersall & Joey Jay, at Bulkeley Stadium 1953.

1953 Boxing George Dunn vs. Baby Face Jones Bulkeley Stadium — Boxing at Bulkeley Stadium, 1953.

In 1955, Bulkeley Stadium was sold for the last time. The Milwaukee Braves conveyed the property for $50,000 to John E. Hays Realty of Hartford. The stadium fell into disarray and ended up being demolished. A shopping center was planned for the site but it never materialized. Instead, a nursing home called Ellis Manor was built on the premises.

1998 Bulkeley Stadium Monument Dedicated Hartford — Bulkeley Stadium monument dedication, 1998.

A stone monument and a stone home plate were dedicated at the former site of Bulkeley Stadium in 1998. At another commemorative ceremony in 2013, GHTBL Hall of Fame inductee James Francoline was in attendance. Francoline was a pitcher for the Hartford Senators and the Savitt Gems who threw batting practice to Babe Ruth at Bulkeley Stadium – long gone, but not forgotten.

1998 Bulkeley Stadium Commemoration — Bulkeley Commemoration Ceremony, 2013.

“On the baseball field at Bulkeley Stadium, Leo Durocher played his first season of professional baseball. On the same diamond, Lou Gehrig, learned the rudiments of first base play and went directly from there to Yankee Stadium and baseball immortality. Hank Greenberg was a raw rookie who couldn’t make the grade here and had to be shipped down to Evansville. The greatest athlete of all time, Jim Thorpe, wore the Hartford uniform in one of the most bizzare periods of the city’s baseball history. Paul Richards was a Hartford catcher there and Van Lingle Mungo, a Hartford pitcher. Babe Ruth and Ted Williams played at Bulkeley Stadium when Bill Savitt was keeping the place alive. A man could go down Franklin Avenue to Bulkeley Stadium and see young ball players who were going to be the very best in the majors.”
Bill Lee, Sports Editor, Hartford Courant, July 9, 1955.

2014 Bulkeley Stadium Ellis Manor — Ellis Manor on site of Bulkeley Stadium, 2014.

References

The Hartford Courant database on Newspapers.com
“Bulkeley Stadium: Hartford’s last home to pro baseball”. SABR. Retrieved 2016-01-24.

Greater Hartford Twilight Baseball League

Connecticut's Classic Summer League Since 1929.

Tag: senators

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Hartford’s Minor League Club, Part III: The Senators (1916-1934)

Lou Gehrig Used Fake Name as a Rookie on the Hartford Senators

Leo Durocher Got His Start in Hartford

Jim Thorpe, Gold Medalist & Hartford Ballplayer

Hartford’s Minor League Club Part II: The Senators (1902-1915)

Hartford’s Minor League Club, Part I: The Hartfords (1878-1901)

Bulkeley Stadium, Gone But Not Forgotten

Morgan G. Bulkeley Stadium

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