Cozumeleno
04-23-2018, 03:16 PM
I recently had the pleasure of talking with the granddaughter of George Groves, the founder of the 1920s Walter Mails game cards (WG7). One thing led to another and before I knew it, she had provided all sorts of fascinating documents related to not only that set but a planned second set that never happened.
Some of the most fascinating documents were signed player releases for players consenting to be in the second set, with one being Honus Wagner. Groves' notes also included all sorts of facts about distribution, plans to use Walter Johnson as a spokesperson, a card design for a new set, and soliciting companies like Topps to help him. It won't be of interest to everyone but hopefully a few get something out of it.
It's a long read with more than 3,000 words (https://prewarcards.com/2018/04/23/the-long-twisted-story-of-the-1924-walter-mails-game-cards/) but I figured a few of you here that are familiar with the set might be interested to read about it.
Some of the most fascinating documents were signed player releases for players consenting to be in the second set, with one being Honus Wagner. Groves' notes also included all sorts of facts about distribution, plans to use Walter Johnson as a spokesperson, a card design for a new set, and soliciting companies like Topps to help him. It won't be of interest to everyone but hopefully a few get something out of it.
It's a long read with more than 3,000 words (https://prewarcards.com/2018/04/23/the-long-twisted-story-of-the-1924-walter-mails-game-cards/) but I figured a few of you here that are familiar with the set might be interested to read about it.