Nash Farm 1860s Game of Baseball

Calling all baseball fans! Experience Grapevine’s annual 1860s Vintage Ballgame at Nash Farm on Saturday, May 1. Cheer on the teams as they play no glove baseball, 1860s rules in a Town Ball exposition game, complete with historic uniforms. Gates open at 5pm. with concessions and carnival midway. First pitch of game one is at 6pm.

The Town Ball exposition game, played using 1860s rules, regulations and terminology, includes the use of a larger, heavier but softer ball known as a “horsehide” or “onion.” In place of a typical baseball diamond, the game will be played on a square playing field with a batting plate and four stakes with flags serving as bases.

Five positions make up the field-of-play. Players will make the experience authentic as they wear the historic 1860s uniforms. Batters will be known as strikers, and the use of gloves is not permitted as they were not used during that time period.

Admission is $5 per person and includes popcorn and lemonade. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets for seating. Additional concessions of hot dogs, Sloppy Joes and more will be available.

This heritage event pays homage to Grapevine’s rich baseball history, which began with the first organized team, the Grapevine Browns, in 1907. The Grapevine Browns were the sons of early settlers and traveled by wagon to and from games against other area teams. Grapevine’s original ballpark was located at the north end of Main Street. Ball Street, where Nash Farm is located, is named so because it led out to the baseball fields.