This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/31/2005.
John Philip Sousa was the leader of the U.S. Marine Corps Band from 1880-1892, later forming his own band, which was the first American band to tour the world. The band actually had its own baseball team, comprised of band members and with Sousa as the pitcher! The team played against local baseball teams or those of other bands. This vintage sheet music is an 1899 march entitled "Three Strikes Two-Step," picturing Sousa and the team on the cover. It is "Dedicated to John Philip Sousa's Base Ball Team" and was penned by A.W. Bauer, "Late of Sousa's Band." This piece of American history is in overall VG-EX condition. There is some surface and edge wear with small tears and minor chipping. Also some tape on the lower spine, still in great condition for its age.