A. J. Reach Factory in Philadelphia

[Michael Peich]

This interesting little piece on the A. J. Reach factory appeared in last week's Philadelphia Inquirer. It was written by Frank Fitzpatrick, Philadelphia's only true sports historian reporter, and a regular delight to read. Hope you enjoy it!

http://www.philly.com/philly/columnists/frank_fitzpatrick/20150104_Giving__Em_Fitz__A_piece_of_Philadelphia_ s_baseball_history_still_stands.html

Cheers,
Mike

[kkkkandp]

Thanks, Mike! Neat article.

It would be nice, wouldn't it, if the developers somehow formally acknowledge the building's former use and its link to baseball history by some plaque or display in the lobby?

[Michael Peich]

It would be nice, Kevin, but I suspect it won't happen!

BTW, will you email me? I have a question about 19c baseball for you.
mpeich12@gmail.com

Thanks,
Mike

[kkkkandp]

Email sent.

BTW - I love when they repurpose old buildings, especially when the retain most of the character of the original. One of my favorite hotels is the Lancaster Arts Hotel, which was a 19th century tobacco warehouse. Much of the original brickwork and beams have been incorporated into the new use. On top of that, it is right across the street from Clipper Magazine Stadium, where you can watch some great minor league baseball played by the Lancaster Barnstormers!

[ErikV]

Not sure if anyone knew, or for that matter cares to know, but there were
actually two A.J. Reach sporting good factories in Philadelphia back in the
day. The one discussed in Mr. Fitzpatrick piece is/was located at 1721-1731
Tulip Street. http://www.workshopoftheworld.com/fishtown/reach.html

The second factory predates the Tulip location by about 20 years. Their original
plant was located at 1219 Beach Street, near Penn Treaty Park. Below is a
picture of their original location.

As a footnote, in the 1870's (prior to the Reach company using the Beach
Street location), this location was used by a young confectioner who was just
starting up in the candy industry. His name was Milton Hershey. In 1900
Hershey sold his Lancaster Caramel Company to Daniel Lefean who was
president of the American Caramel Company.

In 1900 this same Beach Street location was also used by the newly established
Philadelphia Caramel Company.

I absolutely loved these little tidbits about the hobby. By the way, I thought
Mr. Fitzpatrick's article was great! He definitely has the skill of writing.

ErikV