Philadelphia Athletics Cooperstown Royal Crosstown Script Cap

$34.00

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Officially-licensed Philadelphia A's Royal Crosstown Script adjustable hat with plastic strap featuring the A's famous white elephant logo adopted back in 1902 and sharp yellow undervisor.

In case you're unfamiliar with the legend of how the White Elephant mascot came to be, here is the story:

When the A’s joined the American League in its first year of existence in 1901, team owner Benjamin Shibe wasted little time in offering exorbitant contracts to star National Leaguers, in effect raiding them of their talent. John McGraw, who managed the Giants of the National League, was disgusted by Shibe’s actions, but thought that spending so much money was going to tank the team.

While speaking to a reporter in 1902, McGraw stated that Shibe had a “big white elephant” on his hands. The term, popular back then, described something that looked nice but whose upkeep made it impossible to take care of. Connie Mack heard what McGraw had said and showing that he had an outstanding sense of humor, ordered all Athletic's gear to carry a white elephant on it.  

By the time the 1905 World Series came around, it was obvious that the A’s were a profitable franchise. And so, in playing a practical joke on McGraw, before Game 1 of the Series, McGraw was given a statue of a white elephant (see photo) at Columbia Park in Philadelphia.

Customer Reviews

Based on 5 reviews
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H
Helene Anastasio
Shibe Philadelphia A’s

My husband’s is a huge fan, this team is nostalgic to him. I used to order from the A’s Historical Society, unfortunately they went out of business. I know my husband missed these gifts, an Dad V I couldn’t have been happier than when I saw your site on Facebook. I round up picking the right tshirt but wrong hat. I called the site and the customer service was impeccable! I will continue to do business with them!

C
Curt Runske
History of Philadelphia A's

Very nice hat, it would be nice to see the A's come back home to Philly.

J
John Abbott
Incredible hat

Hat is stunning and I wear it with pride

S
Shirene Bell
Love this cap

I really love this cap as it represents the team's origin in Philadelphia. I also bought the matching shirt. I've also paired it with the Golden State Warriors Classic tee as they had the same colors when they were in Philadelphia. I knocked off one star because it isn't fitted, which would've made it perfect.

G
Gilles Goyer
Excellent

Thank you for your excellent service and great product