Harry Hooper autographs

[BicycleSpokes]

Dear all,

I am home visiting family in Idaho, and have had some fun going through my old baseball card etc. collection from my childhood (deciding what few things to keep and what to give to my nephew who is interested). Among the "keepers", I was very happy to find these old Harry Hooper post card and ball autographs, given to me by one of my Dad's friends about 25 years ago (unfortunately, neither of us could remember which friend). They didn't mean much to me at the time, as I was way more interested in collecting stuff from the stars of the day, but now that I am into pre-war I am really happy to have "found" them again!







I am not an autograph guy, so I would be interested to hear any opinions on their authenticity (I presume they are authentic, given that they are personalized to "Doug Baldwin" but would still be very curious to hear from the experts here).

Also, I am curious if anybody can tell me anything regarding the date / background of the blue and red threaded ball. The autograph is dated June 16, 1952, so if authentic it would obviously pre-date that, but I have no idea by how far (not a ball guy either, I primarily just collect cards). On the back side of the ball it reads "Official American League Ball, PAT'D AUG -81-09" and "Warrantee, The Cork Center, 3 IN. 5 OZ." (see pic) if that is any help.

Any info would be truly appreciated. Thanks,

David