1871 Boston Red Stockings Base Ball Stock Certificate

The 1871 Boston Red Stockings Stock Certificate: A Cornerstone of Baseball History

A Glimpse into the Origins of Professional Baseball

In the annals of baseball history, few artifacts hold as much significance as the 1871 stock certificate from the creation of the Boston Red Stockings. This remarkable document is not merely a piece of paper; it is a testament to the birth of professional baseball and the inception of baseball in Boston. The Boston Red Stockings, through a series of transformations, would eventually become the Atlanta Braves, the longest continuously running professional sports team in America.

Signatures of Legacy

Dated February 14, 1871, this stock certificate is graced with the bold signatures of Ivers Whitney Adams, the owner, and Harrison Gardner, the treasurer. These signatures are not just ink on paper; they are the marks of visionaries who laid the foundation for what would become a storied franchise. The certificate itself documents the purchase of five shares by Joshua Cleaves, encapsulating a moment of investment in the future of America’s pastime.

Preservation and Presentation

This historic document, now 145 years old, has been preserved with care. It is matted and framed to dimensions of 16.5″ x 13.5″, ensuring its protection and display. While it bears some toning and discoloration on the left edge, it remains in excellent overall condition, a testament to its enduring legacy.

• Historical Significance: Represents the founding of the Boston Red Stockings, a cornerstone of professional baseball.
• Iconic Transformation: The team evolved into today’s Atlanta Braves, the longest-running professional sports team in America.
• Preserved Legacy: Despite its age, the certificate remains in excellent condition, framed for posterity.

A Piece of Baseball’s Rich Tapestry

This stock certificate is more than a collectible; it is a piece of baseball’s rich tapestry, a symbol of the sport’s evolution and enduring appeal. For enthusiasts and collectors, it represents an opportunity to own a fragment of history that connects the past with the present. As part of our baseball memorabilia auctions, this artifact stands out as a beacon of the sport’s storied past.

For those looking to delve deeper into the world of sports memorabilia, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a wide array of opportunities. Whether you wish to consign baseball jerseys or explore our appraisal services, we are here to assist you in uncovering the value and significance of your treasured items. Our sports memorabilia auctions are a gateway to owning a piece of history, much like this extraordinary stock certificate.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.