Everything Everywhere Daily The Baseball Hall of Fame
Jan 26, 2026
A tale of how a small town used a baseball shrine to revive its economy. The founding, early elections, and opening day spectacle are recounted. Voting rules and statistical shifts that reshaped selections get attention. Controversies about banned players, steroid-era debates, and late recognition of Negro Leagues are explored. Traditions of induction ceremonies and the museum’s cultural impact are highlighted.
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Myth Built A Museum
- Stephen C. Clark used the Doubleday myth to market Cooperstown as baseball's birthplace and boost tourism.
- The story mattered more than historical accuracy for creating a national shrine and driving visitors.
First Class Of Immortals
- The inaugural 1936 writers' election produced five legends: Ty Cobb, Babe Ruth, Honus Wagner, Christy Mathewson, and Walter Johnson.
- No one was unanimous; Cobb led with 98.2% of ballots, showing early consensus but not perfection.
Elections Evolved For Credibility
- Election rules evolved: writers now require five years retired, ten years played, and 75% for induction, while veterans-era committees rotate by era.
- These changes sought to standardize selection and reduce past cronyism and inconsistency.