Twenty Thousand Hertz

The secret history of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”

Jun 7, 2023
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ANECDOTE

Katie Casey's Baseball Story

  • The original song verses tell a story about Katie Casey, a woman passionate about baseball and wanting to lead the crowd at games.
  • This narrative contrasts with the commonly sung chorus, revealing a richer backstory often forgotten today.
INSIGHT

Feminist Message in Song

  • At the time "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" was written, ballparks were male-dominated and women attending was controversial.
  • Katie Casey's character represented a groundbreaking independent woman, reflecting emerging female empowerment.
ANECDOTE

Song's Unexpected Origin

  • Jack Norworth wrote the lyrics in 1908 after seeing a subway poster, without having attended a baseball game.
  • He cleverly marketed the song by collaborating with Vaudeville performers, embedding it in popular acts nationwide.
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