The Battle for the Barrel vintage baseball match
Game for Pioneers’ Honor to be held on Thursday, May 23rd
PRESS RELEASE I Georgetown Gentlemen
GEORGETOWN, KY – Step back in time to the era of hoop skirts, handlebar mustaches and the earliest days of America’s beloved pastime as the Georgetown Gentlemen clash swords, or rather bats, with the Paris Bourbonites in a riveting vintage baseball match. This historical showdown, aptly named “The Battle for the Barrel,” promises an evening of nostalgia, fierce competition and community rivalry on Thursday, May 23rd, starting at 6:15 pm EDT at the Grounds of Ward Hall, 1782 Frankfort Pike, Georgetown, Kentucky.
Prepare to be transported to the pastoral days of the late-1860s as both teams don authentic period uniforms and equipment, recreating the essence of baseball as it was played in its infancy. Amidst the rustic charm of a hayfield setting, spectators will witness the game unfold just as it was experienced over a century ago, evoking a palpable sense of history and camaraderie.
Beyond the sheer thrill of the game, “The Battle for the Barrel” holds deeper significance as the Georgetown Gentlemen and the Paris Bourbonites vie not only for victory but also for the honor of their local legends. Representing the cradle of bourbon culture, each team will defend the legacy of their respective pioneers – Elijah Craig of Georgetown and Jacob Spears of Paris but credited with the creation of bourbon whiskey. The stakes couldn’t be higher as these teams seek to immortalize their heroes’ legacies through their prowess on the diamond. 
Admission to this game is free of charge, inviting fans of all ages to partake in this celebration of history and athleticism. Fans are encouraged to come ready to support their respective communities. Food trucks will be stationed onsite, ensuring that hunger pangs are kept at bay throughout the evening. Spectators are also encouraged to bring along lawn chairs and blankets for optimal comfort as they soak in the excitement under the open sky.
“The Battle for the Barrel” promises to be an unforgettable experience for baseball enthusiasts, history buffs and community-minded folks. Mark your calendars, rally your friends and make your way to Ward Hall for an evening of timeless entertainment and spirited competition!
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About Georgetown Gentlemen
The Georgetown Gentlemen vintage baseball club was founded in 2021 and are one of two vintage teams in Kentucky who play full seasons. The Gentlemen have quickly rocketed to the upper echelons of vintage baseball, competing as far away as in the 19th Century Base Ball Festival in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.
About Paris Bourbonites
The Paris Bourbonites will be playing their debut game to represent their community. The team is named after a minor league team that existed in Paris from 1909-1924. The Bourbonites were members of the Blue Grass League and Ohio State League, winning the conference title three times. The roster for the Paris Bourbonites will be completed at another date and will be published once its released.
About Ward Hall
Ward Hall is an antebellum mansion built in the Greek Revival style that is situated approximately 1.8 miles west of the Georgetown city center. Completed in 1857, the property was built by Junius Ward, who made his fortune in cotton, hemp, and racehorses. He was the first President of the Lexington Racing Association. The home and surrounding 40 acres were saved by and now owned by the Ward Hall Preservation Foundation, a non-profit organization. More information can be found at www.wardhall.org.
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For more information, please contact Tommy Druen (Georgetown Gentlemen) at (502) 836-1046 or tommydruen@gmail.com
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Other information about the game.
It’s 9 innings (or until it gets dark).
They typically play by the Rules of 1867 (known as fly), but for this game they’re going to play by 1860 (bound). The game is very much recognizable as baseball. However, there are some noticeable differences.
They use a lemon peel ball, which looks a bit different since it is made from one piece of leather. The ball is wound by hand, so it’s a little bit softer and duller, but only slightly.
Pitches are thrown underhand. And the goal of the pitcher is not to strike a batter out, but rather give him something that can be put into play. A swing and a miss is a called strike, but other than that there are no balls and strikes.
They do not use gloves. Gloves and other equipment weren’t introduced until 1880s.
The way they will play with the 1860 rules is that a ball may be caught on one bounce and still be an out. That changed in 1867 when they only allowed fouls to be caught on a bounce for an out.
There’s no overrunning 1st base. You must stop on the bag or risk being tagged out.
Stealing is allowed, but sliding is rare. And only feet-first slides are legal.
One of the most difficult rules for them to grasp is who bats first each inning. Whomever the last out was, the guy behind him in the lineup is the first batter. For example, let’s say the bases are loaded and there are two outs. The ball is put into play and the third baseman tags the guy running from second to third. The guy who was running from first to second will be the first batter up next inning.
For the most part, umpires are purely decorative. It was a “gentlemanly” game in the 1860s, so players solved disputed calls themselves. If it is unknown, the umpire may step in. And it’s not uncommon for the umpire to poll the crowd to see what they think.
Ungentlemanly behavior such as spitting or cussing may incur a fine from the umpire.
