Vintage Base Ball Day at the DAP

The iconic Durham Athletic Park has hosted baseball games since 1926 and was even featured in an iconic baseball film, but Durham’s baseball roots are even deeper. The first century of baseball was marked by racial segregation and separate leagues for black and white athletes at the DAP until the 1950s; however, Duke Homestead welcomes all people to participate and honors the struggles and achievements of the many players over the past century who brought us the Durham baseball culture we know today. Players will wear historic uniforms, follow historic gameplay, and use historic equipment. The games will follow 1860 and 1869 Beadles Rules.

Connect with the history of this sport, this place, and this community by enjoying an afternoon out at the ball park.

Enjoy a family-friendly day at the ball park complete with “old fashioned” concessions, food, beer, and historic music. Spectators are encouraged to come dressed in your favorite historical, vintage, or retro inspired outfits. We believe in vintage style, not vintage values! Kids will get to play historic games with our costumed interpreters, as well as have the opportunity to run the bases in-between ball games.

Joining the local Duke Homestead team this year will be The Shiners from Rockingham, VA and a special team from the Durham Fire Department! The first game will be played at 11am, with games at 12:30pm and 2pm to follow.

This game is a fundraiser for the Duke Homestead State Historic Site