1930 Richard Hoblitzell, Robert Walsh, & Charles O’Leary Player & Coach Contracts

Historic Baseball Contracts: A Glimpse into the Past

Introduction to the Contracts

In the realm of baseball memorabilia, few items capture the essence of the sport’s rich history like the contracts of legendary players and coaches. The contracts of Charles O’Leary and Robert E. Walsh, along with a letter from Dick Hoblitzell, offer a fascinating insight into the world of baseball in the early 20th century. These documents are not just pieces of paper; they are a testament to the era’s sports culture and the individuals who shaped it.

Charles O’Leary’s Coaching Contract

The cover of Charles O’Leary’s contract reads, “AMERICAN LEAGUE PLAYER’S CONTRACT – American League Base Ball Club of New York With Charles O’Leary (coach)”. This document, dated April 1, 1930, bears the signature of Ernest Barnard, the then-president of the American League. O’Leary, a revered figure in baseball, was set to earn an aggregate salary of $5,500. The contract is signed by O’Leary in blue ink and a secretarial Jacob Ruppert signature in grey ink on March 21, 1930. The signatures, in our opinion, rate a combined 8, reflecting their excellent preservation and historical significance.

Robert E. Walsh’s Player Contract

Similarly, the contract of Robert E. Walsh, a player from Meriden, Connecticut, is a remarkable artifact. The cover states, “AMERICAN LEAGUE PLAYER’S CONTRACT – American League Base Ball Club of New York With Robert E Walsh Of Meriden, Conn”. Dated April 1, 1930, and signed by Ernest Barnard, this contract outlines Walsh’s monthly salary of $800. The second-to-last page features Walsh’s signature in blue ink and a secretarial Jacob Ruppert signature in black ink, both dated March 21, 1930. These signatures also rate a combined 8, underscoring their authenticity and value.

Dick Hoblitzell’s Letter of Verification

The collection is further enriched by a letter from Dick Hoblitzell, dated January 6, 1930. Addressed to Mr. Barrow, Hoblitzell inquires about his continued role with the club. His signature, in blue ink, rates a strong 8. The response, dated January 7, 1930, confirms his engagement with the New York Club for the 1930 season under the same terms as the previous year. This correspondence, accompanied by a Letter of Authenticity from JSA, adds depth to the historical narrative of these documents.

Why These Documents Matter

• Historical Significance: These contracts and letters provide a window into the administrative and financial aspects of baseball during the 1930s.
• Notable Figures: Featuring signatures of key figures like Charles O’Leary, Robert E. Walsh, and Dick Hoblitzell.
• Preservation and Authenticity: The signatures are well-preserved, with ratings that attest to their authenticity and historical value.
• Exclusive Collection: These documents are a rare find for collectors and enthusiasts of sports memorabilia.

Conclusion

These contracts and letters are more than just relics of the past; they are a celebration of baseball’s enduring legacy. As part of our consignment offerings, they represent a unique opportunity for collectors to own a piece of history. Whether you are looking to sell or appraise your own memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions is your trusted partner in the world of sports collectibles.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.