April 2, 2015: Sports & Americana Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/2/2015
Thomas Shibe (d. 1936) is the son of Benjamin Shibe who, along with Connie Mack were the founders of the Philadelphia Athletics baseball team. He was also instrumental in helping to create the American League and helping Major League baseball divide the game into two leagues (AL and NL). He was known for his manufacture of baseballs and baseball equipment almost as much as his association with the A’s. He invented much of the machinery used to produce baseballs for the big leagues and his personal supervision of the AJ Reach plant. His family’s namesake adorned the Major League ballpark that the A’s and Phillies played in for many years (1909-70) in Philadelphia, Shibe Park. Connie Mack bought controlling interest in the Athletics upon Shibe’s death in 1936. His importance in Major League baseball can’t be underestimated.
We offer a 2 page document from October 3, 1922 that are the minutes of the A.J. Reach Company board of directors. Board members present were Thomas Shibe, Alfred J. Reach, George Reach, L.K. Moses, H. Boardman Spaulding, and J.W. Spaulding. Signed by Thomas Shibe as Vice-President and Secretary of the company. Historical and RARE!!!
Thomas Shibe Signed Two-Page Document (AL Founder, Athletics Owner)
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