John Montgomery Ward (1860-1925)
Bellefonte, Centre County, Pennsylvania
Marker Inscription
Baseball pioneer, born in Bellefonte, grew up here. Played for Providence, N.Y. Giants, Brooklyn, 1878-94. Pitched professional baseball's 2nd perfect game, 1880. Formed first players ' union, 1885, & Players' League, 1890. In Baseball Hall of Fame.
Erected by Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission
The Story
John Montgomery Ward grew up in Bellefonte and became one of early professional baseball's most remarkable figures. Playing from 1878 to 1894, he pitched the sport's second perfect game in 1880 and later starred as a shortstop. Off the field he organized baseball's first players' union in 1885 and led the breakaway Players' League in 1890, challenging the owners' grip on the game.
Why it matters
A Hall of Famer who was also a labor pioneer, Ward embodies both the early professionalization of America's national pastime and the first organized push for athletes' rights.
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Related people
- · John Montgomery Ward
Related events
- · Players' League
Themes & tags
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