February 04, 2009

Celebrating 150 years of Amherst-Williams baseball

On May 3, Pittsfield, Massachusetts will again host an Amherst vs. Williams baseball game, when the two schools gather to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first intercollegiate baseball game, played July 1, 1859.

“It’s only fitting that this game be played here because of the rich, very rich history that Pittsfield has and has enjoyed as it relates to Major League Baseball,” said Mayor James M. Ruberto on Monday.

The game will be televised on the ESPN U network, the Berkshire Eagle reports.

Besides the anniversary game, a three-inning “vintage game” — played by alumni of the two colleges in period uniforms under 19th century rules — will be held. The two colleges also played a vintage baseball game at Wahconah Park in 1976, but this time noted baseball historian John Thorn will be on hand to teach the squads the rudiments of 19th century baseball.

The chess match between Amherst and Williams originally played the day after the baseball game - which Amherst won, 73-32 in 25 innings - will be re-enacted, as well.

The schools have played each other 292 times, and Amherst leads the series 164-125-2. Each team has won 12 times since 2000.

Brian Meacham '97 | February 4, 2009 11:33 AM | Athletics | History

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