Harold Edward “Red” Grange Football & TLS Presented to “Little” Johnny Sylvester

A Historic Football Gifted by “Red” Grange to “Little” Johnny Sylvester

An Iconic Piece of Football Memorabilia

In the annals of sports history, certain artifacts stand out not only for their physical presence but for the stories they carry. One such piece is a leather football, a gift from the legendary Hall of Famer “Red” Grange to “Little” Johnny Sylvester in late 1926. This football, measuring 10-½” x 5-½” x 5-½” and weighing 1.8 lbs, is a testament to a bygone era of football, devoid of any manufacturer’s logos, yet rich in historical significance.

The Condition and Legacy of the Football

Despite its age, this 87-year-old football remains in good condition, with nearly all of its original laces intact. However, time has left its mark, with a one-inch hole near the laces and a 2” x 2” section of leather missing from one tip. These imperfections only add to the narrative of this cherished item, enhancing its allure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.

A Letter from “Red” Grange

Accompanying the football is a typed, signed letter from “Red” Grange himself, dated October 8, 1926. This letter, on the letterhead of the “Film Booking Offices of America, Inc.,” is a remarkable piece of history. In it, Grange references his friend Babe Ruth and his historic home runs in Game 4 of the World Series, just two days prior. Grange’s words to Johnny Sylvester are filled with warmth and encouragement, as he writes, “The papers also say that you are a football player as well as a baseball player, and of course that makes a big hit with me, so I’m sending you a football with my autograph on it, and I hope in a few weeks you’ll be kicking it all over Essex Falls.”

A Promise from a Legend

In a heartfelt gesture, Grange promises Johnny, “Now, I can’t be too far behind my big friend Babe in doing something for you, Johnny… I promise to make a touchdown just for you in the first game I play in at the Yankee Stadium in New York – and it would be fine if you and your Dad would be there to see it, so I could shake hands with you.” The letter concludes with Grange’s signature in black fountain ink, a near-perfect rating of 10, further elevating the letter’s significance.

• Historical Significance: A direct connection to “Red” Grange, a pivotal figure in football history.
• Unique Provenance: Gifted to “Little” Johnny Sylvester, adding a personal touch to its legacy.
• Condition and Story: Despite its age, the football’s condition tells a story of resilience and preservation.

This extraordinary piece of football memorabilia is not just an artifact; it is a bridge to the past, a tangible link to the legends of the game. For those interested in exploring more about such unique items, Grey Flannel Auctions offers a wide array of sports memorabilia that captures the essence of sporting history. Whether you’re looking to sell sports memorabilia or appraise football jerseys, our platform is your gateway to the world of sports collectibles.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.