Stadium Ushers

[Dave Grob]

Was all set to get this VIA FEDEX today, but 14 inches of snow had something to say about that. Just picked this up in the most recent Grey Flannel auction (yes, I know I just missed one on E-Bay in December for a fraction of the price). Be that as it may, I have been looking for one of these for some time. This is the fourth one I have any record of. When they have been offered they have been described as being from the 1950s; not an inaccurate statement but if you watch and study World Series footage and other references you will find that this style of Yankee usher’s jacket can be found as early as 1947 and was not worn in the 1957 or 1958 World Series. The “Top Hat & Bat” logo that appears on the chest made its debut in 1946, so 1946 would have to be earliest, but images I have seen from 1946 suggests the ushers jackets were a double breasted version with a much smaller patch on the left breast.

I have also been fascinated with this style jacket, partially because they are so gorgeous as well as the design being so closely connected to General Eisenhower and his famous “Ike Jacket”. I love the fact that the dating of c1947-1956 just happens to coincide with one of the greatest runs of any professional sports team (truth in lending; I am not a Yankee fan) and all the things that transpired in Yankee Stadium during this period. Still on the Hunt for similar items from Crosely Field and if you have anything, would love to hear from you.

Dave Grob
DaveGrob1@aol.com