Walter Johnson Estate Photo - Spring Training
 

Photo from Walter's scrapbook just hit eBay with no reserve.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/121951532066...%3AMEBIDX%3AIT

A year ago, I sold a group of photos of Walter in Hot Springs to a guy who said he was putting together a museum of baseball in Hot Springs and would love to have something of Johnson's. I priced the photos accordingly, and needless to say was disappointed to see two of them pop up on eBay with a $750 Buy It Now. He bought them and was free to do anything with them he wanted, of course, but it's a little depressing to feel like you've been gamed.

100% agree Hank, it's happened to most of us unfortunately.

Sorry to hear that, Hank. Though Walter pitching in a bow tie is a great photo.

Feel free to go for it, by all means. I've let go of tons of stuff under all kinds of circumstances, and once something leaves my possession it's gone to me and I hope every piece finds a good home and make someone happy. I just saw this post, and took the opportunity to lay out the story and vent a little. I have no idea what the guy's original intentions were, but from the timing of it I would guess the museum thing was a fabrication.

Hank - I am the one listing and want to state that I wasn't the one who told that story as I bought this one from a different seller. I've enjoyed the item as it has brought me as close as I will get to the greatest pitcher of all time. But with that being said, a change in my families personal life has led me to release some of my prized possessions. My hope is that the winner enjoys it as much as I have.

In defense of the individual to which Hank sold the photos (who is a friend of mine), he indeed purchased the photos with the intention of using them in the museum (which is a work in progress and not a fabrication). In fact, he was very excited to show them to me. I'm not certain if or why he's chosen to let them go, but I can assure all that his motives were not devious when purchasing the images.

Hank, you sold me several photos of Walter for the museum. Which, as Caleb mentioned is a work in progress. We want it to be done right and create a lasting impression on everyone that walks through the door. It will be a long standing memorial to honor your grandfather and every other American icon who played the game in Hot Springs. Nothing less than the best will be accepted. I too, noticed the photographs on eBay and immediately emailed Caleb. I was heartbroken and disappointed that anyone could do such a thing. You have sold at below fair prices to all of your buyers and $750 is an astronomical amount for a family heirloom. I understand your feelings. I feel the same way, however, I AM NOT THE SELLER, NOR WILL I EVER SELL and I would like to make that we'll known to all board members. I appreciate everything you did for me and would like to take this time to say "Thank You, Again Hank"

Everyone, FWIW, I am the purchaser of this photo off of eBay a couple of nights ago, and I was astounded at what it sold for, as my snipe was set much higher. At the end of the day, I bought it for truly 2 intentions: 1) IF Hank wants it back, it's his!! or 2) it will go into my permanent collection as I think it is a very cool photo of the Big Train!!

Either way, I'm glad I purchased it.

Greg