A graceful quick-handed shortstop Dave Bancroft starred for several National League squads including the Philadelphia Phillies (1915-1920) New York Giants (1920-1923 1930) Boston Braves (1924-1927) and Brooklyn Dodgers (1928-1929). Bancroft developed a reputation as a solid if unspectacular lead-off hitter. The switch-hitting Bancroft was also known for his intelligence on the field and his fiery leadership in the dugout. Nicknamed "Beauty" for his habit of shouting the term on each good pitch to the opposition as a Minor League player Bancroft is still considered to be among the top fielders in baseball history.He was elected to the National Baseball Hall of Fame by the Veterans Committee in 1971.

This well worn Reach professional model glove was displayed at the Helms Hall and recorded in their records as having been used by Dave Bancroft in the 1920's. The glove has worn through at the palm. The webbing is detached and the leather has split at the inside seam of the thumb and two middle finger joints. A photo shown here (photocopy included) pictures Bancroft wearing what appears to be this identical model glove. The glove was most likely donated to the museum by Joe E. Brown. Joe E. Brown was among the biggest stars of stage film radio and television in the 1920s and 30s. He was also a tremendous sports fan and a co-owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates. A passionate collector of sports memorabilia Joe E. Brown donated many significant items to the Helms Athletic Foundation including other pre-war baseball items such as Herb Pennock's 1927 World Series glove and other game used balls and equipment.

Includes a Letter of Provenance from the Helms Athletic Foundation/LA84 Collection.