Love of the Game Auctions

Al Crisafulli tells the story of John White, a fan who created his own piece of history by collecting autographs at Cleveland’s League Park. He’s joined by Tanith Harley, an Australian baseball history enthusiast, writer, and collector whose work focuses on uncovering and preserving the history of women in baseball through memorabilia. Drawing on her own lifelong connection to the game, Tanith discusses her research and collection centered on women’s baseball and her efforts to highlight overlooked stories.

https://loveofthegameauctions.com/
Produced by Brand Groupies - https://brandgroupies.com/
Theme music by Doug Stoley: http://www.stoley.com/ 

Episode highlights:
(0:55) John White’s 1920s autograph book
(3:57) Meet Tanith Harley
(5:27) Growing up as a girl playing baseball in Australia
(10:17) Tanith’s start in card collecting
(15:02) Why women’s baseball became her focus
(16:32) Australian women’s baseball history
(20:30) Where to start learning about women in baseball
(24:19) Authenticating and dating historic items
(27:27) Growing hobby interest in women’s baseball
(29:47) Tanith’s most meaningful collection pieces
(35:20) Thoughts on the WPBL
(40:19) Leona and Nellie Kearns’ baseball story
(45:02) The moment Tanith fell in love with the game

What is Love of the Game Auctions?

In a hobby often dominated by hype and hyperbole, Love of the Game Auctions Podcast offers a scholarly insider’s look at the history of sports memorabilia and the legends who made it significant. Hosted by Al Crisafulli, Founder and President of Love of the Game Auctions, this show goes beyond the auction block to explore the artifacts that define the game we love.

Established in 2012 with the goal of being a trustworthy resource for avid hobbyists and novices alike to buy and sell quality material, Love of the Game Auctions is one of the most widely respected auction houses in the industry. We understand that while each collector has taken a different path in the hobby, every approach originates from the same place: a love of the game.

During our episodes, we dig into the stories behind the items we’re lucky enough to handle alongside people keeping history alive. If you value the lore as much as the score, you’re in the right place. Let’s go!