Archbold, OH – Families can enjoy an afternoon of old-time base ball on Saturday, September 23 as the Great Black Swamp Frogs, Elkhart County Railroaders and the Sauder Village Windmills gather for a Vintage Base Ball Tournament at Sauder Village.
With base ball games being played using rules from the 1860s and a chance for kids to run the bases, this fun-filled event is sure to be a big hit with families throughout the region!
While vintage base ball is fundamentally the same as the game today, there are differences in rules, strategies, and equipment.
Vintage base ball games typically reenact game play from the 1860s. The attire is far different from modern uniforms and no one wears a glove.
The pitcher delivers the ball underhand and players can record outs on balls that bounce before being caught.
Foul balls are not strikes and the umpire may ask players and spectators for assistance in making decisions.
There will be three vintage base ball games played throughout the afternoon in the pasture area at Sauder Village.
Game times are at 11:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 3:00 p.m. The winning team will receive the hand-made travelling trophy made at Sauder Village.
Between the games, children will have a chance to run the bases. A schedule of games is available online at www.saudervillage.org
In addition to enjoying the base ball games, guests can also take time to visit the many talented craftsmen demonstrating their trade in places like the Spinning Shop, Pottery Shop, Tin Shop, Cooperage, Basket Shop, Weaving Shop, and Glassblowing Shop.
The Walk Through Time Experience provides a chance to explore wigwams and a trading post at Natives & Newcomers and to visit historic homes, a log school, a barn, and beautiful gardens in the Pioneer Settlement Area.
The spectacular 1920s Main Street continues to be a favorite stop as families take a peek at what’s playing on the big screen, buy sweet treats at the candy store, explore the grocery clothing, hardware and jewelry stores, visit the fire station, meet horses at the livery, and sip a chocolate malt at the soda fountain. There is also plenty of great shopping and free rides on the Erie Express Train!

Sauder Village is located at 22611 State Route 2 in Archbold – just minutes from Exit 25 of the Ohio Turnpike. The Historic Village is open Wednesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. and Saturday from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The historic village is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and Tuesdays this season. Regular admission is $24.00 for adults, $18.00 for students (4-16), and free for members and children 3 and under. AAA and senior discounts are also available.
Make history of your very own this fall with a trip to Sauder Village! Hours of operation, special events, and information about dining and overnight accommodations are available on the Sauder Village website.
For details about planning a memorable Sauder Village getaway call 800.590.9755, visit www.saudervillage.org, like us on Facebook, or follow us on Twitter, Instagram and TikTok.