Question for Antique Bat Experts
 

When did the Bat companies transition from stenciled/painted logos to burnt-in branding? I know the early Ring Bats all have painted graphics. But what is the transition period for the centerbrands to be impressed into the wood?

And more specifically, for J.F. Hillerich & Son? Can anyone pinpoint the year of the switch-over for this process? I'm assuming the mid-late 1890s, but would love it if someone can provide a more detailed answer.

Thanks in advance, to anyone here that can help clarify!

Hey Mark, I would assume the transition occurred during the turn of the century roughly, with some companies switching earlier than others, along with some overlapping of course. I believe Spalding always used ink stamps whenever the familiar 19th century round logo was utilized, switching to burnt-in centre brands when the company went to the straight block letter "SPALDING" in the early-1900s. As for J.F. Hillerich & Son, if you reference the book "Players of Cooperstown", they picture a J.F. Hillerich & Son bat that was apparently used by Hugh Duffy in 1894, and its hard to tell exactly... but the center brand appears burnt-in as opposed to stencilled. Not sure if this will help you at all....

Mark, from my notes that I still have, there are examples of professional Hillerich bats from 1896-97 where there is an overlap of both stencil and burnt on center brands

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