This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 5/11/2001.
Founded in 1903 in Benton Harbor, Michigan, the House of David was a religious colony that in later years formed its own traveling baseball team known for the long beards worn by the players. By the 1930s, the House was a thriving operation that played games against big league and Negro league barnstorming teams, including the Satchel Paige All-Stars. (When Satch would pitch against them he'd glue on a long red beard to get in on the act.) The House was so successful that, contrary to its original strictures, one need not be Jewish to wear the uniform and beard. The team played under various guises, one of which was an all-black team. This gold-strike of a poster was used to spread the word about "Van Dyke's Colored House of David," who were to play the Little Falls team. Reflecting the racial attitudes of the time, the poster touts "12 reputable Major League stars furnishing a RIOT OF FUN FOR ALL" and reads, "Come early and see the Comedy Features!" price of admission." On the poster are photos of "Cannon Ball" Berry, "Flier" Collins and "Babe" McCray catching out of a rocking chair. The word "Baseball" is splashed across the top and the admission price of 35 cents (Grandstand Free) is at the bottom. The poster has become distinctly yellowed through the years and there is some light staining and at least one small tear, but it has been preserved nearly intact under glass in a 19" x 24 ½" wood frame that is in good condition.