The Rochester Collection

Step back in time to an era when baseball was spelled as two words, gloves were considered unmanly, and gentlemanly conduct ruled the diamond. The Rochester Grangers Vintage Base Ball Club invites you to experience America’s pastime as it was played in the 19th century, bringing history to life on the grounds of Van Hoosen Museum.

The Rochester Grangers have deep roots in our community, with their history dating back to 1871 when baseball was primarily a leisure activity for gentlemen. These matches showcase not just a sporting event, but a living history lesson that captures the spirit and customs of a bygone era. If you’ve never witnessed vintage baseball before, you’re in for a treat this summer!

What sets vintage baseball apart from today’s game is the customs and rules from the 1860s era that the Grangers faithfully recreate. Players compete without modern equipment – no batting helmets, padded gloves, or protective gear in sight. The game is played with a strict code of conduct where gentlemanly behavior is paramount. You won’t see any spitting, sliding, or wagering during these matches, as such behaviors were considered improper in the game’s early days. Players address each other and the umpire with formal respect, and the audience (called “cranks” in period terminology) is encouraged to cheer appreciatively for both teams.

The terminology alone provides a glimpse into baseball’s evolution. Pitchers are “hurlers,” batters are “strikers,” and runs are tallied as “aces.” The rules differ significantly from modern baseball – for example, a ball caught on one bounce is considered an out, and pitches are delivered underhanded. These authentic touches transport spectators to a simpler time when baseball was less about competition and more about camaraderie, skill, and sportsmanship.

Mark your calendars for the upcoming Rochester Grangers matches at the scenic Van Hoosen Museum grounds. You can catch these free exhibitions of vintage baseball on Thursday, July 24 at 6:30 pm, Saturday, August 2 at 1 pm, and Saturday, August 16 at 1 pm. No registration is required to attend these family-friendly events, though donations are always appreciated to help support this unique cultural preservation effort. The grassy field at Van Hoosen provides the ideal historic backdrop for these matches, making you feel as though you’ve truly stepped back in time.

When planning your visit, remember to prepare for an outdoor experience. Unlike modern ballparks, the vintage experience doesn’t include stadium seating or concession stands. Guests should bring their own chairs or blankets for comfortable viewing from the sidelines. Since matches can last several hours under the summer sun, don’t forget to pack cool drinks and sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Many regular attendees make an afternoon of it by bringing picnic lunches to enjoy while watching the friendly competition unfold on the field.

Weather conditions and other factors can occasionally necessitate schedule changes, so it’s always wise to verify the date and time as match day approaches. The Rochester Grangers maintain an active Facebook page where you can find their complete schedule of matches, both home and away, along with any updates or cancellations. Following their social media is also a great way to learn more about the history of the team and vintage baseball in general. The page often features photographs from previous matches and interesting historical tidbits about the game’s evolution.

Beyond just entertainment, these matches offer a unique opportunity to connect with our community’s past. Watching the Grangers play at Van Hoosen creates a tangible link to Rochester’s history and the generations of residents who enjoyed this same pastime in nearly identical fashion over 150 years ago. It’s both an educational experience and a delightful way to spend an afternoon with family and friends in one of our area’s most charming historic settings.