ABILENE, Kan. – Let’s root, root, root for the home team at the 10th annual vintage base ball game on Saturday at 1 p.m.

 

Bring your family and friends for a free, fun outing on the campus of the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum and Boyhood Home, 200 SE 4th, Abilene.

 

The “Abilene Iron Cutters” face the “Wichita Bull Stockings” of the Cowtown Vintage Base Ball Club. Crowd participation in deciding calls and period dress is encouraged. Popcorn, peanuts and drinks will be available to purchase. Bring your own seating and sunscreen.

 

The players wear uniforms and use equipment similar to the 1860s era. The game is played using Victorian era rules, which are quite different from today. For example, no gloves are used, outfielders can catch the ball on one bounce for an out and base stealing and sliding are prohibited. Crowd participation is greatly encouraged and often influences the rulings on the field. And, yes, “base ball” was two words back then, too!