Mission Statement

The mission and purpose of the Pacific Northwest Vintage Base Ball League is to preserve, perpetuate, and promote the game of base ball as it was played during its formative years in the nineteenth century. This worthy objective shall be accomplished by the following activities and endeavors:

• In cooperation with the Vintage Base Ball Association and as its members, the PNWVBL will assist in building and promoting teams represented by the townships in the Pacific Northwest. Back in the late 1800’s, ball clubs were formed by the townships themselves to play and compete with neighboring towns. This tradition shall be rekindled. The PNWVBL founder is Alexander Joy Cartwright IV, Great Great Grandson of Cooperstown’s “Father of Baseball” Alexander Joy Cartwright Jr. Alex will approach the City Councils of the various townships in the Puget Sound to establish teams.
• Presenting the game of base ball as it was actually played in accordance with the rules, equipment, uniforms, field specifications, customs, practices, language, and behavioral norms of the period.
• Supporting the formation and strengthening of vintage base ball clubs by sharing vintage base ball information, setting standards of historical accuracy and participation, and providing a means to recognize and communicate with other vintage base ball clubs.
• Encourage research and disseminating information in order to recreate the game in keeping with the highest levels of accuracy and authenticity.
• Educating the public regarding the character, history, and growth of the game with attention to the historical context in which it originated and developed and the historical significance of the townships themselves as base ball was played back in the 1800’s.
• In order to achieve its goals and sustain the traditions and values which it seeks to honor and emulate, the League and all of its members will conduct all matches, meetings, and other activities--both on and off the field--according to the highest standards of sportsmanship, gentlemanly behavior, courtesy, and respect for others which characterized the Knickerbocker Base Ball Club, established, September 23, 1845.