"our National Game"

[James A. Landau]

Checking for "Billy Rice" on Google, I came across the following Web site
     http://www1.shore.net/~persnav/adv5.htm
which sells old advertising handbills etc.

<begin quote>



 The Ray--Boston Theatre handbill dated  January 30, 1884 Boston, MA: H.A.
M'Glenen.  Advertising sheet features Boston Theatre program: Thatcher,
Primrose & West's Minstrels, Bones, Billy Rice; Tambo, George Primrose;
satire on our National Game, Base Ball, with Captain Bostons, Billy Rice and
Captain Providences Carl Rankin. Mr. Frank E. McNish, the comical wonder of
the 19th century. pp. 23 x 31 cm. Paper handbill, printed on both sides,
edges chipped, good. (5337) $14.00. Advertising
<end quote>

It would appear that referring to baseball as "our National Game" goes way
back.

Interesting spelling "base ball"

     - Jim Landau


"You don't have to be a murdered to contribute to the OED"
                                   - Jesse Sheidlower