Civil War ‘Base Ball’ hits a home run in historical fun at Appomattox Court House

Appomattox, Virginia – Visitors to the Appomattox Court House National Historical Park had the opportunity to play and see the game of “Base Ball” during the American Civil War.

On July 6, there were two games: one at 10 a.m. and one at 1 p.m.

Community members turned out to enjoy themselves and participate in the games.

Historian Patrick Schroeder described a few laws that are different from the ones we follow today.

“For Civil War Base Ball what we play is a few modified rules. First of all, the batter gets to call where he wants the strike. The second thing is you can get out if they catch it (the ball) on a bounce. We play you can soak a man, which means you can hit them with a ball to get them out,” Schroeder said.

The majority of the bats were handmade, and the ball itself is softer.

Additionally, they didn’t utilize a “base ball” mitt. It serves as a useful reminder of the soldiers’ free time activities during the Civil War, according to Schroeder.

“The soldiers were in camp quite a bit, a lot more in camp than in the battlefield. They needed stuff to occupy their time. So, baseball was a good way to get some exercise and have some entertainment,” Schroeder said.

A few park employees donned Civil War-era garb as well.

Schroeder stated that they have been holding the game for the next 15 to 20 years and will keep doing so.