The first members of the National Baseball Hall of Fame were elected in Cooperstown, New York, on this day in history, January 29, 1936.
Five baseball legends were chosen: Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson, and Walter Johnson.
According to History.com, the inaugural class of entrants was announced in 1936 in preparation for the dedication of the Hall of Fame in 1939, which was considered to mark the centenary of baseball.
Founded in 1908, the Baseball Writers’ Association of America selected players based on their legacies.
According to History.com, Babe Ruth was both the best pitcher and home run hitter in baseball history.
According to the same source, Ty Cobb was the “most productive” hitter in baseball history, while Honus Wagner was a “versatile star shortstop and batting champion.”
Honus Wagner retired from baseball in 1917, ending his career with 3,420 hits, 643 doubles, 1,739 runs, 1,739 RBI, and 723 stolen bases for a batting average of.328.
Christy Mathewson recorded more victories than any other pitcher in National League history, according to History.com.
Walter Johnson was regarded as “one of the most potent pitchers who ever took the mound.”
The first ceremony of induction was not place until June 12, 1939.
According to the National Baseball Hall of Fame, this occurred after the election of 20 new members in 1937, 1938, and 1939.
Cobb concluded his career with 1,944 Runs Batted In, 897 Stolen Bases, 1,249 Walks, and a.366 batting average.
Among the inductees were Cy Young, Pete Alexander, George Sisler, Al Spalding, and Lou Gehrig.
According to History.com, the foundation invented the legend that American Civil War hero Abner Doubleday invented baseball in Cooperstown in 1839.
Despite the fact that it was false, baseball executives reportedly supported the rumor in order to maximize the Hall of Fame’s marketing and media potential.
The Baseball Hall of Fame is the nation’s focal point for all things baseball, attracting around 350,000 visitors annually.