There are no gloves required for a baseball clinic taking place on Saturday at Pacific Community Park.
The style of ball that Norm Jahnke and his Continentals play does not allow for such luxuries. In 1867, “base ball” was more of a hands-on experience.
“No gloves. No spikes. No cussing. No spitting,” Jahnke said, explaining some of the rules that early teams played under at places such as Fort Vancouver.
The clinic, which starts with a picnic at 1 p.m. is free for all comers.
This event is part of an effort by Jahnke to expand upon semi-annual base ball games played on the parade grounds at the Fort Vancouver National Site. His goal is to make 1860s base ball a regular event in the region.
“We would like to have a vintage base ball game somewhere in Washington or Oregon every Saturday” during the summer, Jahnke said.
Saturday’s gathering is a first step. In the 1860s, base ball games were more about communities gathering than about competition. Women played on some 1860s teams.
Jahnke first saw a vintage base ball demonstration a decade ago during a visit to Vancouver. Upon returning to his native Michigan, he learned the game was thriving there and began supporting the Coopersville Muldoons — one of 25 Michigan clubs registered with the national Vintage Base Ball Association.
When he moved to Vancouver last year, Jahnke was surprised to find that vintage base ball games were only held occasionally. Though physical limitations prevent the 83-year-old Jahnke from playing, he is eager to see the 1860s game revived in the Northwest.
“We’re going to have vintage base ball out here. I’m sure of that,” he said.
His efforts to change that include a website — www.oregonterritorybaseball.com — that explains some of the history and rules of the game, which was played with a slightly larger ball than today’s baseball. Among the notable rule differences, an 1860s batter (called the striker) was out when a fielder caught a struck ball on the first bounce. Also, pitches were delivered underhand.
Saturday’s clinic will feature an explanation of the rules, the balls and bats, and the uniforms worn when the game caught on in the Oregon Territory in the 1860s. Those who attend are encouraged to bring their own picnic lunch, which was part of the base ball tradition as the game gained popularity following the Civil War.
What: Vintage base ball clinic and exhibition.
When: 1 p.m. Saturday.
Where: Pacific Community Park, 18th Street and Northeast 172nd Avenue.
Cost: Free. Public invited and encouraged to bring a picnic lunch.
More information: www.oregonterritorybaseball.com, or send e-mail to nbjahnke@gmail.com.
