This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 12/9/2024
Long considered the unofficial anthem of baseball, every fan knows of the song “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” This rarity is an original cabinet photograph of Jack Norworth, lyricist and songwriter who together with composer Albert Von Tilzer wrote this famous song sung at ballparks throughout the country for well over 100 years now!
Of historical significance, this original cabinet photograph reflects the history of early vaudeville and stage entertainment picturing Norworth in blackface costume as was his specialty as a vaudeville entertainer.
As for the lore behind his famous song, the story goes that Norworth saw a sign advertising a New York Giants home game “Baseball Today at the Polo Grounds,” while on a subway ride in New York City. Norworth was immediately struck with the idea for the commercial success of a song that would share the national experience of baseball, scribbling a verse and chorus with the title, “Take Me Out to the Ball Game.” These original handwritten lyrics are reportedly on display at the National Baseball Hall of Fame.
While visual evidence depicts the poor to fair condition of this historic photograph, I doubt another such example exists picturing this entertainer who has made such an impact on the game of baseball. And the national experience of watching a game of baseball during the last century.
Image size 4 X 5.5, on 6.5 X 8.5 cabinet mount imprinted with his name ”Jack Norworth” in silver. The verso is stamped with a name and number of unknown history and notated by hand, “Jack Norworth – Lyricist ‘Take Me Out to the Ball Game’ Photographer ‘Rush Nell San Francisco & Oakland Cal.”
Authentication: Gotta Have Rock and Roll Certificate of Authenticity.