Treasure trove of facts, stories, and photos that trace baseball from its origins in the nineteenth century through its expansion and evolution to the game it is today, all told through the lens of those who played it best.

Includes index.

Introduction -- Cooperstown -- Entryway -- 2nd floor: Cooperstown Room -- Grandstand Theater -- Taking the field: 19th century -- 1900's -- 1910's -- Babe Ruth Room -- 1920's -- Pride and passion: the African-American baseball experience -- Advertising & baseball -- 1930's -- Diamond dreams: women in baseball -- 1940's -- 1950's -- 1960's -- 1970's -- 1980s to present -- Today's game -- 3rd floor: Sacred ground -- Records room -- Autumn glory -- Baseball cards -- 1st floor: Scribes & mikemen -- Baseball at the Movies -- Sandlot Kids' Clubhouse -- Art of baseball -- Museum Shop -- A. Bartlett Giamatti Research Center -- Baseball Hall of Fame outreach programs -- Induction weekend -- Hall of Fame Plaque Gallery.