In 25 years of pouring over auction catalogs looking for Red Sox game used bats and catchers gear and traveling to Cooperstown, I have seen some awe inspiring flannel uniforms. Ruth, Williams, Gehrig, Mays, and Aaron among many other Hall of Famers. The whole idea of collecting flannel uniforms just seemed a bit intimidating and better left for those with an intricate knowledge of the dark secrets surrounding manufacturers’ tagging, uniform number changes, appropriate chain stitching and correct uniform styles. While there are a few flannel experts that are particularly helpful, Dave Grob for example, it seems that the majority of these flannel uniforms are locked down in mysterious collections of deep pocketed collectors where they rarely see the light of day. (OK this is a bit of hyperbole but we are talking about FLANNELS here!) Yes, I also did not understand the enthusiasm expressed by many who collect flannel jerseys, I was a doubter.
When I look at a piece that is outside the traditional four corners of my collection I am always asking myself, how will it fit in the collection? Is it historic? Does it stir the imagination? In other words is there a wow factor? Is it something that could be placed on loan? And, most importantly, are limited collecting resources well spent on the item? Flannel jerseys had never really checked the boxes.
I did have one or two but those were unique situations where the price was reasonable or the jersey came with another item. It was not until recently that I was offered something special, a Johnny Peacock 1943 Red Sox road flannel uniform. Peacock was a catcher for the Red Sox from 1937 to 1944. He played with Williams and caught Lefty Grove’s 300th win in 1941.
Once I got it in my hands, I understood the attraction of flannels. The tagging was intricate and elaborate, complete with chain stitching. The fabric heavy and worn, particularly the pants that were permanently stained reflecting hours spent kneeling in the dirt. Simply put, I felt like I was holding history. I might be tough pursuing a collection of flannels due to scarcity and expense, but if you find one that fits your collection, take the leap.
Johnny Peacock Game Used Road Red Sox Pants
