History | Arizona Vintage Base Ball League

We Keep History Alive

Step Into the Past

The Arizona Vintage Base Ball League brings 19th-century base ball to life across the state. What started as a handful of exhibitions has grown into a statewide schedule with multiple clubs and community partners. We play the early game on real fields, in front of real crowds, keeping alive the camaraderie and community spirit that made base ball a tradition in the Southwest.

History is more than something we look at in a museum; it’s something we can step into. When a town gathers to play by the rules of the 1860s, the game itself becomes the teacher. Players and fans alike discover how early baseball was played, how the game was governed, and how communities came together around sport. These live games bring the past to life, spark pride in local history, and inspire people to preserve old photographs, family stories, and community traditions. For younger generations, it offers a hands-on way to connect with the places they call home.

Why We Do This

Education

Put primary-source rules and period customs in front of the public, not just in a book.

Community

Give towns a reason to gather, cheer, and celebrate together.

Craft

Step into the game with period-style balls, wood bats, and early-game etiquette.

Stewardship

Keep historic venues like Warren Ballpark active and relevant.

The Era We Recreate

We play under mid-19th-century rules (1860s–1870s) adapted for safety and clarity. Hallmarks you will see:

No gloves, this is barehand base ball; we use wood bats and period-style balls.
The fair-bound out—a clean catch on one bounce may retire a striker—in all matches.
Underhand or low-arm pitching, with the striker able to request a high or low ball.
Courtesy, umpire authority, and period terminology (“striker,” “hurler,” “ballist,” “nine”).
Each fixture’s rule set is posted in advance so spectators and new players know what to expect.
No stealing, no sliding, no bunting.