Before batting helmets, before dugouts, before the designated hitter — there was base ball (two words, as it was then written). Watching a match played under 1864 rules is less like attending a modern game and more like stepping into a photograph that suddenly comes to life.

The players take the field in period wool uniforms, suspenders and all, with no gloves — catching a ball barehanded was simply part of the game. Pitchers deliver the ball underhand in a smooth, stiff-armed motion, and the batter — called the “striker” — has considerable say in where he’d like the pitch thrown.

Come step back in time and see baseball the way it was meant to be played! Right on the Salem Common the Providence Grays versus Dirigio Base Ball Club of Maine !