In light of today's events we thought we would go back and take a look at the history of the Congressional Baseball Game that dates back to 1909.
According to the game's website, "Since 1909 the Congressional Baseball Game has been the only annual partisan event beloved by all and enjoyed by thousands. Every year, with a few interruptions, Senate and House members of each party solidify friendships off the floor and on the field."
Representative John Tener of Pennsylvania, a former professional baseball player, organized the inaugural baseball game in 1909. The Boston Daily Globe observed, “The game was brewing for weeks and the Members of the House were keyed up a high pitch of enthusiasm. Deep, dark rumors were in circulation that ‘ringers’ would be introduced, but when they lined up at 4 o’clock the nine republicans were stalwart, grand old party men, while the democrats were of the pure Jeffersonian strain.”
The game has not been played every year due to the perceived disruption of Congress that it causes and also the years during the Great Depression and World War II.
The game has evolved throughout the years and it is now a large charity event played at Nationals Park. members of Congress usually wear the inform of their home states and districts but proportional representation is not required. The tickets are under $20 and the game supports local D.C. charities like The Washington Literacy Center, The Boys and Girls Club of Greater Washington, and the Washington Nationals Dream Foundation.
The game's website states that the game will still be played tomorrow despite the scary events that transpired at practice on Wednesday.