Inside Label: 1962 MLB All-Star Game Straw Hat
Baseball is a game which thrives in the twilight of summer. It is a game which reflects the valued traits of American patriotism. It is a game which has stood the test of time, finding an everlasting foothold within the heart’s and mind’s of American society. Nothing displays its importance more than the All Star Game, baseball’s mid-summer classic.
The first All Star contest was held in 1933 at Comiskey Park on Chicago’s south side. It was originally formatted to coincide with the World’s Fair Exposition. However, it served as a short form of relief from the depressing economic collapse which suffocated the 1930’s. The great Babe Ruth left his mark on the mid-summer classic by hitting its first home run. The All-Star Game has been an annual event since that sunny summer afternoon in Chicago, pausing only for World War II.
The 1962 All Star Game was held in the nation’s capital. It was the first of two All Star games that would be played out that year in order to boost interest. President John F. Kennedy sat in attendance and threw out the ceremonial first pitch. The game was dominated by pitching but won by speed on the base paths. Maury Wills, shortstop for the Los Angeles Dodgers, scored the first run of the game after stealing second base. He again used his speed in the eighth inning to pad the National Leagues’ lead. The game ended with the National winning by a score of 3-1. The incredible instincts and speed of Wills on the base paths earned him MVP honors. It would be the first time this award was presented at the All Star Game.
This woven style straw hat is currently being featured by Hunt Auctions in their July auction. Stitched, in a single needle style, on the outer crown is a cream satin band. Screen printed on the band in scarlet type is, 1962 All Star Game. A multi-colored feather accents the side of the straw hat as it lies over the cream satin band. Further research has determined that this style of hat was worn by members of the press. This unique piece is a depiction of the importance the All Star Game has within American society.
Image: Hunt Auctions