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Photo postcard of the Geneva NY Hydrants indoor baseball team, with 10 players and their coach. The Hydrant Hose Company was founded in 1880 and is Geneva’s oldest volunteer fire company.
Scarce image!
Indoor baseball—sometimes called “indoor base ball”—was a variant of baseball played in gymnasiums or halls, especially popular from the 1890s through the 1910s. It was a popular winter pastime for fire departments and athletic clubs in the Northeast Fire companies often formed teams as part of their social and athletic culture.
‘AZO’ photographic paper dates it from 1904-1918.
Toned on back.
Indoor baseball—sometimes called “indoor base ball”—was a variant of baseball played in gymnasiums or halls, especially popular from the 1890s through the 1910s. Fire companies often formed teams as part of their social and athletic culture.
How Indoor Baseball Differed from Outdoor Baseball (c.1900–1915)
1. The Ball
Much softer and larger than a regulation baseball
Typically 12 inches in circumference (today’s softball is 12 inches—this is where softball comes from)
2. The Bat
Shorter and lighter.
Often no longer than 30 inches Sometimes flat‑sided or modified to reduce rebound
3. The Field Dimensions
Played in gymnasiums, armories, or drill halls
Bases placed closer together (often 45–60 feet instead of 90)
Outfield was whatever space existed—often a wall 40–70 feet behind the infield
4. Pitching
Underhand or “restrained” delivery depending on the league
Pitcher’s distance shortened (often 35–50 feet)
5. Number of Players
Often 10 players instead of 9
Extra fielder used to compensate for small spaces
6. Scoring & Pace
Games were shorter (5–7 innings common)
High‑scoring but with short hits—lots of singles, bunts, an - d errors
7. Equipment & Safety
Gloves were minimal or optional
