This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/13/2024
The 1885 Canadian League Champions Clipper Base Ball Club team portrait features a standout moment for the team, capturing the Hamilton Clippers in their championship-winning season. In 1885, the Clippers dominated the Canadian League with a 34–10 record, finishing in first place. The team was led by manager William Stroud and featured several prominent players, including the renowned pitcher Ice Box Chamberlain. The season also marked a significant achievement as the Clippers won the Canadian League pennant for the second consecutive year.
The team's success in 1885 was celebrated by local fans and dignitaries alike. Notably, they held a ceremony in Hamilton where the championship banner was presented to the team by Mayor J. J. Mason. The Hamilton Clippers were recognized not only for their athletic prowess but also for their sportsmanship and gentlemanly behavior, adding to their reputation as one of the top teams of their era. The photograph is an important historical artifact, representing a pivotal chapter in Canadian baseball. Even if the condition of the image has deteriorated over time with some pieces missing and chipping, the photo remains a valuable piece of memorabilia that highlights the Clippers' prominence in the 1885 season.