|
Autograph of Hall of Fame Negro Leaguer Turkey Stearnes.
Lot 148. Autograph of Hall of Fame Negro Leaguer Turkey Stearnes. Cool Papa Bell said, “If the don’t put him (Stearnes) in the Hall of Fame, they shouldn’t put anybody in.” In 2000, the Veterans Committee finally voted Stearnes a spot at Coopers- town. Stearnes was one of the top home run hitters in the Negro Leagues, and he hit for average as well. From 1923-32, he led the leagues in home runs seven times. He batted .353 lifetime, and .351 against white major leaguers. Double Duty Radcliffe rated him an excellent outfielder defensively. Stearns signed his actual name, “Norman T. Stearnes,” at the top of a lined index card. He then added, “Centerfielder for Chicago American Giants from 1932 until 1938. Dave Malarcher was our manager. Jack Marshall & Nat Rogers was good.” Stearns’ signature is a large mint 9 that could be matted with our without the additions. There may be a very slight traceover in the “T” representing his middle name. Stearnes signed his name and wrote the additions in purple or violet ink. The word “for” is traced over in pencil, and “Chicago” also is in pencil. The additions are bold. Stearnes passed away in 1979. Authenticated by Kevin Keating.
Winning Bid $1,044.
Back to List
|
|
|
|
