Vintage baseball exhibition game comes to Naper Settlement July 21
Return to a time when baseball was a gentleman’s sport, the umpire was never wrong and players formed teams for the pure enjoyment of the game. A vintage baseball exhibition game between the Chicago Salmon and the DuPage County Plowboys, played by 1858 rules, will be held from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 21 at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster St., Naperville.
“We are thrilled to welcome visitors of all ages for an all American summer afternoon of baseball, hot dogs and ice cream,” said Nancy Smith, Naper Settlement’s Director of Learning Experiences.
Gary Schiappacasse, who has played with the Chicago Salmon for 15 years, is also known as “The Professor,” because he’s a retired schoolteacher. He said the games of yesteryear were more relaxed than the high-stakes games of today.
“The period of time that we’re reenacting is like the old neighborhood ball game,” he said. “Part of the fun of baseball in the 1800s was that you could play it wherever you wanted.”
At Naper Settlement, visitors are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets to see the game that will be played on the Village Green. From 1-2 p.m., the players will set up the playing field, visit with the crowd and explain the culture and rules of the era. The game will take place from 2-3:30 p.m. After the game, children will have an opportunity to run the bases. Joey’s Red Hots will have hot dogs, brats, Polish sausage, chips, pop and water available for purchase. It’s also a Settlement Sunday with free ice cream provided by Culver’s.
Schiappacasse said, “We hope people will take time out of their busy lives to watch the game and enjoy the moment and the experience. We’re all about celebrating baseball.”
The game is included with admission of $12/adult (13+), $10/senior (62+) and $8 youth (4-12 years). Free admission for children 3 and under, Naperville Heritage Society members and Naperville residents (proof of residency required). For more information, visit www.napersettlement.com or call (630) 420-6010.