On July 4th I went to the George Ranch Historical Park to video a baseball game played according to rules established in 1860. The teams were the Houston Babies and the Katy Combine.
I don't know if there's a back story on the Combine, but I do know the Babies are named after the first professional team in Houston. According to Bill McCurdy, Houston baseball historian, Houston was a founding member of the Texas League in 1888. They were the last team formed and easy pickings for more able opponents. Local media referred to them derisively as, 'the Babies." The name stuck for a while, but after a succession of different names, they eventually became known as the Buffs in the early 20th century.
Everyone will remember that Independence Day in Fort Bend County was pretty steamy, but the 'cranks' (the 1860-era term for fans) and players out at the Park enjoyed some old-time baseball.
Here's a 9-minute video of the double-header, which the Babies swept 14-7 & 12-2. (Click on the photo.)
Here's a 9-minute video of the double-header, which the Babies swept 14-7 & 12-2. (Click on the photo.)
