‘Uncovering the True Origins of Baseball’ Webinar

Pop quiz: where was baseball actually “born?” Nope, not upstate. Not in New Jersey or Long Island. But actually right here in New York City. With baseball season here (even if baseball isn’t), it’s time to learn about the origins of one of America’s greatest pastimes, and explore its humble beginnings in the heart of Manhattan.

Join New York Adventure Club as we uncover the origins of baseball, and trace the early history of the sport as it developed in New York before quickly spreading across the country.

Led by veteran New York City tour guide and sports nut John Semlak, our digital showcase of baseball’s rise on the island of Manhattan, from Bowery to Broadway, will include:

– The story of baseball’s evolution in America, from the earliest known written records of the sport in the early 1800s, to the formation of the first baseball clubs, to the founding of the National League in 1876

– A look at sites that were pivotal to baseball’s development, from former playing fields, to buildings that once hosted the earliest conventions, to where the ‘NY’ logo of the New York Yankees was originally made

– Opportunities to debunk some common baseball myths, including where the first game was played and who the father of baseball really was

– 19th-century baseball artifacts to showcase including a vintage 1870s full-sized bat to a replica hat and baseball

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with John — any and all questions about baseball are welcomed and encouraged!

Batter up! $10.

*Once registered, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay will be available after the experience for all registered guests

About John

John Semlak is a veteran tour guide, amateur historian, and all around sports nut. He specializes in historical walking tours and blogs about the city’s history on his website, Explore New York History. He’s an active member of the Guides Association of New York City and the Society of American Baseball Researchers.











When: Mon., Oct. 26, 2020 at 5:30 pm - 7:00 pm

Pop quiz: where was baseball actually “born?” Nope, not upstate. Not in New Jersey or Long Island. But actually right here in New York City. With baseball season here (even if baseball isn’t), it’s time to learn about the origins of one of America’s greatest pastimes, and explore its humble beginnings in the heart of Manhattan.

Join New York Adventure Club as we uncover the origins of baseball, and trace the early history of the sport as it developed in New York before quickly spreading across the country.

Led by veteran New York City tour guide and sports nut John Semlak, our digital showcase of baseball’s rise on the island of Manhattan, from Bowery to Broadway, will include:

– The story of baseball’s evolution in America, from the earliest known written records of the sport in the early 1800s, to the formation of the first baseball clubs, to the founding of the National League in 1876

– A look at sites that were pivotal to baseball’s development, from former playing fields, to buildings that once hosted the earliest conventions, to where the ‘NY’ logo of the New York Yankees was originally made

– Opportunities to debunk some common baseball myths, including where the first game was played and who the father of baseball really was

– 19th-century baseball artifacts to showcase including a vintage 1870s full-sized bat to a replica hat and baseball

Afterward, we’ll have a Q&A with John — any and all questions about baseball are welcomed and encouraged!

Batter up! $10.

*Once registered, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you’re using the latest version of your internet browser — Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay will be available after the experience for all registered guests

About John

John Semlak is a veteran tour guide, amateur historian, and all around sports nut. He specializes in historical walking tours and blogs about the city’s history on his website, Explore New York History. He’s an active member of the Guides Association of New York City and the Society of American Baseball Researchers.

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