6/21/1939 Lou Gehrig Wire Photo

A Glimpse into Baseball History: Lou Gehrig and the New York Yankees

An Iconic Photograph

Step back in time with this remarkable 9” x 7” black and white photograph, capturing the legendary Lou Gehrig alongside his New York Yankees teammates. This image is not just a snapshot; it is a poignant piece of baseball memorabilia that immortalizes a significant moment in sports history. The photograph features Gehrig in conversation with fellow Yankees Joe Gordon, Lefty Gomez, and Bill Dickey, just before they took the field against the Chicago White Sox at Yankee Stadium on June 21.

A Moment of Triumph and Tragedy

The back of the photograph tells a story of both triumph and tragedy. It reads, “GEHRIG TALKS WITH MATES AGAIN – LOU GEHRIG, JOE GORDON, LEFTY GOMEZ, AND BILL DICKEY…JUNE 21, BEFORE THE WORLD CHAMPIONS TOOK THE FIELD AGAINST THE CHICAGO WHITE SOX AT THE YANKEE STADIUM…EARLIER IN THE DAY, ED BARROW, PRESIDENT OF THE YANKEES, ANNOUNCED THAT THE IRONMAN FIRST BASEMAN, GEHRIG, WAS SUFFERING FROM CHRONIC POLIOMELITIS (INFANTILE PARALYSIS) AND THAT HE MUST SUBMIT IMMEDIATELY TO A SERIES OF TREATMENTS IN ATTEMPT TO CURE THE DISEASE.” This announcement marked the beginning of Gehrig’s battle with the disease that would later bear his name, adding a layer of emotional depth to this already significant piece.

The Legacy of Lou Gehrig

• Historical Significance: This photograph captures a pivotal moment in the life of Lou Gehrig, one of baseball’s most revered figures.
• Iconic Team: Features legendary Yankees players, highlighting the team’s dominance during this era.
• Emotional Impact: The announcement of Gehrig’s illness adds a poignant layer to the image, marking the end of an era for the “Iron Horse.”

Why This Photograph Matters

This photograph is more than just an image; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Lou Gehrig and the New York Yankees. It serves as a reminder of Gehrig’s remarkable career and his indomitable spirit, even in the face of adversity. For collectors and enthusiasts, this piece offers a unique opportunity to own a fragment of baseball history, a tangible connection to the past that continues to inspire and captivate.

As part of our sports memorabilia auctions, this photograph stands as a beacon of the rich history and tradition of baseball. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a passionate fan, this piece is a must-have addition to any baseball collection. Explore our consignment opportunities to discover more treasures like this and become a part of preserving sports history.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.