Images(2)

Forgotten Convoy bat

Date1943

DescriptionWooden bat with knob wrapped in white tape. Throughout barrel and taper is handwritten lettering, "White Sea League / Molotovsk, U.S.S.R. / Winner First Half - Francis Scott Key / Winner Second Half - City of Omaha." Underside of barrel has written the names of all the players and Navy seamen. Names are also written on the handle.

Bio/Historical NoteThe crews of the "Forgotten Convoy" spent nine months in Molotovsk, and nearly a year in total away from the United States, stranded by storms and German war ships blocking their passage during World War II. Stuck in the Arctic and with nearly 24 hours of daylight at their disposal, the Navy seamen turned to baseball to pass the time. The White Sea League was formed, comprised of four teams - one for each ship. The local Russian citizens leveled off a field for the sailors to play on. The bat, featuring the inscribed seamen's names who played in the makeshift "White Sea League," was crafted on a lathe from a tree branch.

Object numberB-2015-0088

Subject United States. Navy Department

Subject White Sea League

Attributes

Classificationssports and athletic equipment

Dimensions35.25 in.

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